Style File: Zagat Survey Restaurants

WSVN--Whether it's an intimate eatery or a family favorite -- South Florida has great choices when it comes to eating out. But in tonight's style file, if you're looking for something different, we asked the experts for a few places your pallet would love to try.

Whether its Chinese, Thai, Italian or Mexican. South Florida is food heaven when it comes to satisfying your tastebuds. Matter of fact according to a recent Zagat survey people here eat out more than in any other city in america -- an average of about four meals per week.

Tim Zagat, Publisher Zagat's Guide: "I think first of all it's much easier to go out to eat in South Florida just throw the kids in the back of the car and everybody drives to their favorite place."

Tim and Nina Zagat know a thing or two about pleasing pallates. They publish the zagat survey -- the dining guide foodies all over the world have been referring to for the past 27 years. Diners rate the restaurants and South Florida's picks for 2006 are in.

Tim Zagat: "I think when you look at any city, you have to look at where the people come from and they bring their food with them."

Coming in at number one for food in Miami-Dade County is a little Peruvian Gem known as Francesco's.

Tim Zagat: "A little place that reflects the best food, that sort of exquisite food."

And this "little place" has been a mainstay in Lima, Peru for more than 20 years. And in 2001 the owners decided to bring their Peruvian delicacies to Coral Gables.

Franco Danovaro, Owner Francesco Restaurant: "I think it's an honor not just for our family or for our teamwork, but for our country."

Topping the list for hospitality diners choice Romeo's cafe. Owner and executive chef Romeo Majano has been making guests feel right at home with his Nothern Italian delights for the past eight years.

Romeo Majano, Owner Romeo's Cafe: "I love what I do. This is my life. I live for Romeo."

There's no menu at this cozy Miami eatery -- all chef Romeo needs to know is what you're in the mood for and the rest is left to his imagination.

Tim Zagat: "Romeo himself is one of the most delightful. He makes everybody just feel good."

And Broward County also has some world-class cuisine. The Victoria Park restaurant in Fort Lauderdale is among the favorites in the Zagat survey.

Gary Boylan: "We just basically make sure that whatever takes to make this a good experience, happens."

And their signature dishes include crabcakes, stuffed shrimp and Jamaican pork

Bottom line: No matter what you're craving our community is a melting pot which means every night your dining choices are endless.

Tim Zagat: "The diversity of food here is really really amazing."

The 2006 Zagat's restaurant guide is now available at bookstores.

Contact: jryzenberg@wsvn.com

Zagat Survey
www.zagat.com

Francesco's Restaurant
325 Alcazar Avenue
Coral Gables
305-446-1600
www.francescorestaurant.com

Romeo's Cafe
2257 Coral Way
Miami
305-859-2228
www.romeoscafe.com

Victoria Park Restaurant
900 NE 20th Avenue
Fort Lauderdale
954-764-6868