Everglades City

If you’re in Everglades City and hungry for anything besides seafood—or swamp food—you’re going to be out of luck. Thankfully, there are a handful of spots that can fry up water creatures with the best of ’em.

The Camellia Street Grill (208 Camellia St., 239/695-2003, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, main courses from $10) is probably the best, with some quirky decor, great riverfront views, friendly staff, and some incredible homemade sangria.

Everglades Seafood Depot (102 Collier Ave., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, 239/695-0075, main courses from $8) also boasts great views, although the food is geared more toward the tour-bus groups who stop here daily.

For home-style breakfasts and a decent lineup of burgers and sandwiches, head for the Backcountry Cafe (305 Collier Ave., 239/695-2552, 6 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, main courses from $5).

Homestead

There are a number of decent restaurants in Homestead, and Shiver’s Bar-B-Q (28001 S. Dixie Hwy., 305/248-2272, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, main courses from $7) is something of a local legend, having served up excellent ribs, pulled pork, and chicken for almost 60 years.

Another low-key and inexpensive place to grab a great meal is Mario’s Latin Cafe (1020 N. Homestead Blvd., 305/247-2470, 24 hours daily, main courses from $6), a family-style place that serves up generous portions of hearty Cuban fare as well as several American specialties.

For something a little fancier, try Miyagi Sushi Bar & Grill (650 NE 22nd Terr., 305/248-3333, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, sushi rolls from $5, entrées from $11).

© Jason Ferguson from Moon Florida, 1st Edition