When in America, it’s a foodie’s duty to hunt out at least one authentic diner where the food is awesome and the portion sizes are obscene.
Top of our list was Myles Chefetz’s local institution Big Pink, an all-day retro diner with a typically Miami pastel pink facade. It’s a hotspot for big American breakfasts, people-spotting lunches on the terrace and post-clubbing munchies (it stays open until 5am on weekends).
The diner is conveniently located on Collins Avenue near South Pointe and that other famous Miami restaurant Joe’s Stone Crab. We visited at lunchtime before heading out to explore Art Deco South Beach.
Big Pink is all about good ole comfort food with an overwhelming menu of Americana classics, including its signature Big Pink TV Dinner. Seeing the most enormous dishes of fried chicken and waffles, French toast and burgers coming out of the kitchen, we tried to go ‘light’ on the ordering.
I ordered Panko Crusted Chicken Tenders ($9.75), which came served with yummy honey mustard and BBQ dipping sauces. Chunky strips of juicy, succulent chicken breast were lightly covered with a golden, crunchy Japanese-style coating and served piping hot. The portion size was so generous that I could barely finish them.
I accompanied the chicken with a fresh and tasty Caesar Salad ($7.45). Chopped romaine hearts were dressed with just the right amount of house-made Caesar dressing, buttery brioche croutons and shaved Parmesan. The half size was more than enough for one person or even for two to share.
Steven went for a classic Patty Melt ($11.75) served with a bucket of home-made potato chips and a pickle. The tender, nicely charred 10 ounce Angus burger was smothered with gooey melted Cheddar and sweet grilled onions served on griddled rye studded with aromatic caraway seeds.
The potato chips were actually cooked fresh in the kitchen and were full of flavour – an extra touch that earns Big Pink its great reputation.
We were far too full to indulge in dessert, but the next time we find ourselves in Miami, we’ll be back for a Peanut Butter Snickers Pie, Red Velvet Cheesecake or a Chocolate Sky Scraper Cake.
Big Pink is a must if you’re after delicious diner food at affordable prices just moments from the beach.
Photos by Chérie City (exterior by Big Pink)
For more Miami travel ideas, read my review of:
You Might Also Like