Grand Café in Hollywood, Florida: Kosher Dining Done Right
Dairy Café in Hollywood, Florida ✈
Grand Café, a kosher dairy restaurant located at 2905 Stirling Road in Hollywood, Florida, has been a key player in the local dining scene since it opened in 2011. This is one of those places that seamlessly combines a comfortable environment with a well-thought-out menu. While Hollywood is no stranger to kosher establishments, Grand Café carved out its niche early on by focusing on dairy dishes.
Hollywood, Florida, is home to a large Jewish community. Synagogues, Jewish schools, and community centers are integral parts of the neighborhood, fostering a sense of connection and tradition. This strong community presence makes Hollywood a prime location for a kosher restaurant like Grand Café.
When I first arrived, I noticed the restaurant occupies a spot in a bustling shopping plaza. It’s unpretentious from the outside, but once you step in, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting space. The interior is casual yet polished. Tables are spaced to allow for a relaxed dining experience without feeling cramped, and the service staff is attentive and professional. Guests also have the option to dine in the covered outdoor seating area, which offers a charming atmosphere with natural light and a pleasant breeze.
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“The menu includes classics like cheese blintzes and tuna melts, but there are also more modern dishes, such as avocado toast and creative pasta options.”
The story of Grand Café’s origins is straightforward but worth mentioning. Founded in 2011 by individuals passionate about kosher dairy cuisine, the restaurant quickly gained a reputation for serving high-quality meals in a welcoming atmosphere. Over the years, it has grown into more than just a local favorite. It’s a place where people come to enjoy reliable dairy dishes, whether for a quick breakfast, a lunch meeting, or an evening out.
Grand Café specializes in dairy, meaning no meat is served, making it ideal for vegetarians and pescatarians adhering to kosher dietary laws. The menu features a mix of traditional Jewish dishes and international influences, which keeps things interesting.
A diverse selection of appetizers ensures something for everyone, whether it’s the crispy indulgence of Arancini and Fried Ravioli or lighter bites like the Beet Carpaccio and Hummus Plate. Salads are equally varied, ranging from the protein-packed Ahi Tuna Salad to the rich Feta Salmon Salad. With additions like warm mushroom blends and sweet potato accents, these salads go beyond the basics to provide satisfying and flavorful meals.
For pasta lovers, dishes like Baked Ziti and Three Cheese Ravioli bring comforting, cheesy flavors, while the Truffle Mushrooms Pasta adds a luxurious touch with its fragrant oil and fresh ingredients. Pizzas are available in classic and creative varieties, from the simple Margherita to the White Truffle Pizza, which combines creamy sauce and earthy mushrooms. Sandwiches such as the Fusion Salmon Sandwich and Jerusalem Toast offer hearty yet refined options, ideal for a filling lunch or casual dinner.
The sushi section of the menu offers an assortment of options that balance traditional Japanese influences with creative twists. There are classic rolls like the Spicy Tuna Roll and Salmon Avocado Roll, featuring fresh fish and simple, complementary ingredients. For those who prefer something more adventurous, rolls such as the Truffle Tuna Roll and Salmon Brûlée Roll incorporate flavors like truffle oil and seared salmon to elevate the experience. Sushi enthusiasts can also enjoy nigiri combinations, including fresh cuts of tuna, salmon, and hamachi, presented with garnishes such as miso, jalapeño, and glazed truffle oil. Unique appetizers like Tuna Tataki and Dynamite Crispy Rice add variety with their bold sauces and textures.
Dinner dishes range from hearty pasta options, like the creamy Mushroom Pappardelle and rich Salmon Penne Pasta, to Middle Eastern-inspired items such as Fish Shawarma and Arias, which feature tahini, harissa, and fresh herbs. Lighter selections include the Hot Mushroom Salad, prepared with an earthy blend of mushrooms, and the Roasted Eggplant Carpaccio, which incorporates fresh feta and pistachios for a Mediterranean touch. Guests seeking indulgence will find items like Mushroom Dumplings and Salmon Cigars, both of which showcase layered flavors and meticulous preparation.
The specialty menu blends contemporary and international cuisine with bowls, tacos, and poke-inspired creations. The Tuna Poke Bowl and Salmon Bowl bring together grains, fresh vegetables, and expertly prepared fish, offering a balance of taste and nutrition. For those seeking comfort food, options like Fish and Chips or Pan-Seared Branzino provide a more traditional but elevated take. Asian fusion dishes, such as the Grilled Salmon Zen Bowl and Miso Glazed Black Cod, incorporate bold sauces and creative presentations, making them a highlight for seafood lovers.
Desserts range from traditional Middle Eastern sweets like Knaffe and Malabi to universally loved treats such as Belgian Waffles and cheesecakes. Guests can also enjoy an assortment of pastries, including croissants and rugelach. The drink menu is equally comprehensive, featuring hot beverages like cappuccinos and lattes alongside refreshing cold drinks such as fresh fruit shakes and iced matcha lattes, ensuring a satisfying pairing for every meal.
One thing that sets Grand Café apart is its dedication to freshness. They also cater to a variety of dietary preferences, offering gluten-free options and alternative dairy products for those who need them.
During my visit, I took the opportunity to chat with one of the staff members about what keeps customers coming back. They attributed it to the consistency and the sense of community the restaurant fosters. Grand Café has become more than just a place to eat; it’s a gathering spot where people know they’ll be treated well. Many customers are regulars, and some have been coming since the restaurant’s early days.
The café benefits from being in a central area with easy access to the surrounding neighborhoods. Parking is plentiful, which is always a plus in South Florida, and the plaza itself has a range of other businesses, making it a convenient stop for locals running errands or meeting friends.
For those looking to explore the area before or after a meal, there are several attractions nearby. T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park is a wonderful spot for outdoor activities, offering walking trails, paddleboarding, and picnic areas. Families will appreciate the park’s water playground and serene atmosphere. Another must-visit is the Hollywood Broadwalk, a bustling oceanfront promenade with stunning views, shops, and entertainment. It’s an ideal place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the sea breeze, or indulge in people-watching. These destinations make for a perfect day when paired with a meal at Grand Café.
One of the things I appreciated most about Grand Café was how it balances tradition and innovation. The menu includes classics like cheese blintzes and tuna melts, but there are also more modern dishes, such as avocado toast and creative pasta options. They’ve managed to keep the spirit of kosher dairy cuisine alive while also appealing to a broader audience.
Grand Café isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, and that’s part of its charm. It knows what it does well and sticks to it. Whether you’re looking for a casual breakfast, a place to catch up with friends over lunch, or somewhere to enjoy a quiet dinner, this restaurant fits the bill. With its long-standing presence in Hollywood, Grand Café is a solid choice for anyone seeking quality kosher dairy cuisine.
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