Shireen's Favorite Things

Lunching at Lona — because everyday is an extraordinary experience at this new Fort Lauderdale hotspot.

Energetic, fun and beachfront: “Lona Cocina & Tequilera” is one of the best things to happen to the 954 in a long time. It’s the brainchild of rock star chef, Pablo Salas, who effortlessly combines upscale Mexican food with a laid-back, yet lively atmosphere.

When I stopped by last Sunday, the inside-outside bar was buzzing with excitement. Not only was a DJ spinning some crazy good tunes (wicky, wicky,) the weather couldn’t have been any better. The ocean, which is smack-dab in front of the restaurant, shined a sparkling bright blue and the sun was showing off in all her South Florida glory. So — it was settled. Despite being hot as balls because it’s June in the sunshine state…

I sat patio-side under Lona’s large canvas awning. It’s the best spot to people-watch and of course, enjoy the view. By the way, if you’re worried about being too hot, it’s not —Lona’s fan game is so strong, you’ll feel like you’re starring in a Beyoncé music video. If that doesn’t do the trick, how about liquid refreshment(s)? 🍹

You’ll fall #CrazyInLove with Lona’s drink menu, thanks to tasty thirst quenchers like “Housemade Red Sangria” or why not #RunTheWorld after a few shots of one of the many Tequilas and/or Mezcals they serve (over three hundred to be exact.)

The tart & salty “Paloma Brava” has both —Tequila Cabeza & Ilegal Mezcal — mixed with lime, agave and grapefruit soda. My absolute favorite? The“Rio De Rosas,” strong enough for a man, but made for a woman: spiked with Four Roses Bourbon, apricot liqueur, Campari and lemon. It’ll definitely #GrowHairOnYourChest if you have two, watch out for your face. 🧔🏻

Sure, Lona’s cocktails are creative and unique, but one can never go wrong with a straightforward Margarita and they make a good one. Sip a traditional style or go all fancy with choices like Mango, Coconut, Hibiscus or Passion-Fruit.

If you love sashimi with a South Of The Border twist, try the “Tuna Tostada” with chipotle aioli, soy, ginger, Serrano pepper, sesame seeds & crispy leeks. I’ve never had leeks like this, but man, I’m sold. The bite-sized appetizer is a carnival of fresh, spicy and savory flavors. When it comes to chips, salsa and guac, I’m a die-hard snob (it’s the New Mexico girl in me,) but Lona’s “Bacon & Chicharron” guacamole with cilantro, tomato, onion & jalapeño is amaze-ballzzzz.

The fresh ingredients are delivered to your table in a filled-to-the brim Molcajete, then mixed & mushed right in front of you. It’s meal-worthy in itself, especially on a hot summer’s day. If you’re more of a nacho lover, “Huarache de Carne” (piled high with refried beans, crumby white cheese, crema fresca and skirt steak,) will hit the spot. The bottom of the dish is a chip-like shell you can either cut into or break off and use to pile on the perfect bite.

If you’re not a snacker per se and like ordering off the main menu, the “Braised Beef Cheek” is tender and savory. Made with pumpkin sauce and pureed cauliflower, it melts in the mouth. Prefer Fish? The “Salmon Mole” is a work-of-art perched up on cubes of winter squash topped with crema fresca and roasted cashews. As far as Mole sauces go, I could lick this one off the plate. #HelloLovah

If you want your mind blown, get dessert, people. The three-layered “Chocolate Ganache” is cray good, and apparently, the extra rich, extra yummy sauce is a family recipe. NOW (drum roll please) introducing the life-changing, ”Tres Leche” — (said in my best TV anchor voice.) My taste buds were shook-eth. Besides being soaked in three different types of milk, the sponge cake is marinated in berries and topped with whipped cream. #HeavenOnEarth 🍰

The view, the drinks, the food — there are so many reasons to fall madly in love with Lona. Not to mention they also do Taco Tuesday’s, Ladies Night and Bottomless Brunch & that’s why it’s one of my Favorite Things. Cheers!

Lona Cocina & Tequileria
321 N. Ft. Lauderdale Beach Blvd.
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33304

Monday-Thursday: 11am-10pm
Friday-Saturday: 11am-12am
Sunday: 10:30am-10pm

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IG: @lonarestaurantfll
FB: @lonarestaurantfll
Twitter: @lona_restaurant

www.lonarestaurant.com