David Fuertes talks his favorite food spots in Miami’s colorful cuisine scene. From fancy restaurants to food trucks, he shares the best places to dine in the 305 and simple may just be the answer.
When and why did you first start The Plastic Spoon?
David Fuertes: My roots come from quite a mix of Hispanic and Americana heritage. I grew up eating southern, home cooking and love a good apple pie. Every summer, I would go up to North Carolina to my grandparent’s mountain house. Although I love the city, I also love the woods and getting my hands dirty. This all influenced my taste buds and what I believe to be good food. The Plastic Spoon comes from loving simple, hearty meals. If a food truck can make it, I’ll probably love it! I can be fancy when I am invited to be, but my true passion is about the simple things in life – BBQ, pizza and a great burger!
Are there any up-and-coming Miami food trends we should know about?
DF: Food trends are fast-paced here in Miami! One month there will be a really popular pie shop and the next will be all about donuts. Trends move so fast it’s hard to even call them trends, but mostly “trends” are started by PR firms that promote a local restaurant or menu item to all my fellow blogging friends. After we all post about it, it becomes the next “trend”. Hey, no complaints from me! I love pie and donuts.
Is there a cuisine you enjoy blogging about the most?
DF: My favorite type of cuisine is good, old Americana food: Bacon cheeseburgers, pies, steak, wings and the list goes on. There’s nothing quite like a backyard BBQ with a cold sweet tea and ribs. Let’s be honest, I love fancy places, and thank God I live in Miami, a.k.a. “Miami Beach”, where everything is fancy. But I love the simple things too. I’m happy with a great cheeseburger and fries.
Is there anything surprising you’ve learned about food blogging since you started The Plastic Spoon?
DF: It’s a small community. There’s maybe 30 real foodies that consistently post on their websites or accounts. Everyone is very open and nice.
Are there any quintessential Miami restaurants you’d recommend to first-time visitors?
DF: If you are visiting Miami, you have to try Knaus Berry Farm. It’s a classic place that has been around since, well, a long time. They have the BEST cinnamon rolls PERIOD. Next, you would have to try Casola’s. It’s arguably the best pizza in Miami!
How has your blog changed the way you eat at restaurants?
DF: I hate being a regular customer! Just joking, but there is a night and day difference between my food blogging adventures and going out with friends. When I go to blog about a restaurant or bar, I’m treated like royalty. The owner comes out to welcome me, everything is free and I’m given a behind the scenes look into how the chef cooks all the food. It’s a dream job! Usually, a restaurant visit will take me and my team 3+ hours to film and take photos. We interview other customers, the chef and try several different menu items. It’s quite a project. On the other hand, I really enjoy just going out with friends. Being able to enjoy food and good company is one of the best things!
Is there anything surprising you’ve learned about food blogging since you started The Plastic Spoon?
DF: It’s a small community. There’s maybe 30 real foodies that consistently post on their websites or accounts. Everyone is very open and nice.
What’s the most mind-blowing dish you’ve experienced?
DF: I can’t say. I’ve had so many amazing dishes that picking one is impossible for me, but my favorite BBQ is from a place called Pirate Brothers BBQ.
Are there any common misconceptions out-of- towners have regarding the Miami food scene?
DF: There is a lot of ethnic food. Lots of Hispanic food! I grew up here so I’m used to it, but if you are visiting, you’ll run into stuff that you might see as weird. For example, guava. I was at a shoot for Churromania last week and there were a bunch of kids visiting from out of state. Churromania has these amazing little guava filed churro bites. They are to die for, but these kids had no idea what guava was! I’m happy they got to try it!
What’s the most Instagram-worthy restaurant for someone looking to impress their friends?
Is there a signature Miami dish?
DF: Anything Hispanic!