The Food Gang. Photo: Chris Cutro.

Speak up!

By Aurora Rodríguez

Surfside is the type of community that could easily be missed in the blink of an eye while zipping along Collins Avenue in a hurry. And being as how hurrying got you into this situation in the first place -- the "makeup" date after speeding to pick up your sweetie's dress at the dry cleaners at 5:59 p.m. -- maybe it's best you make this a laid-back affair that'll help rekindle the love.

First, it's time to take advantage of the area's sleepy beach town vibe by taking her for a stroll along Harding Avenue. The strip features everything from mom-and-pop shoe stores like David & Sol Shoes (9491 Harding Ave; 305-866-9747).

If your date is now pouting about her "food baby," maybe it's time to walk her over to Lions Gallery, an art gallery reminiscent of those found along small town main streets. The gallery not only holds contemporary art shows featuring works by local and international artists, but it also appraises poster and print art from visitors, which will have your sweetie wishing she would've brought a few of her vintage Clash e-Bay finds.

After spending immersing yourselves in Surfside's cultural offerings, head to Sushi Republic for a taste of affordable sushi and a few bites of the restaurant's buttery salmon nigiri, washed down with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. After dinner, it's time to leave sleepy Surfside for a bottle of vino on the living room couch: nothing like ending a laid-back evening at home, happy you didn't speed past Surfside this time around.

Where's your perfect Surfside date spot? Leave a review!

Published: 8/08