Lokal Burgers & Beer: Funky Food With Florida Flair

With an apt nod to its name, the folks at LoKal Burgers & Beer are quickly positioning themselves as the Miami experts on serving up high-quality local grub. Situated in the heart of Coconut Grove, the restaurant exudes the cool, bohemian vibe of the neighborhood, inviting locals and tourists alike to unite in the name of Florida cuisine.

Naturally, they pride themselves on sourcing Florida-made, sustainable ingredients. All burgers are made with grass fed beef, and are freshly ground in-house every day. There really is just something superior about foods that are local and fresh, and LoKal is right on point.

The menu offers the usual suspects – burgers, sandwiches and salads – yet adds unique flavors that somehow make the classics even better. One of my favorites is the "Frita by Kush." With such an elaborate mix of odd toppings, it leaves you wondering how this all could possibly work so well together. Filled with guava jelly, melted Gruyere cheese, potato sticks (yes, potato sticks), crispy bacon and something wonderful called "the LoKal sauce," this burger is a flawless combination of sweet, salty, crispy, crunchy and juicy.

And just when I thought potato sticks and guava were the strangest things to put on a burger...behold! There's a burger sandwiched between a glazed donut. Yes, a glazed donut. And another that's so spicy, it's bold enough to call itself the "Miami Heat." You can even dabble in some fresh alligator strips if you please. Deep fried, seasoned in Old Bay and dipped in homemade spicy mayo, you will find yourself cheating on good old-fashioned chicken tenders at your first opportunity.

Also to indulge on: Grass Fed Beef Carpaccio, the Grouper Reuben, Mama Bear's Chicken & Waffles, Spider's Tuna Salad, and the Homestead Guacamole, which isn't the best you'll have, but granted we're dealing with burger people here.

Just like the food, the beer list is superb and offers a lesson in Florida breweries. Spanning north to the Tequesta Brewing Company, down to our very own Miami Brewing Company, the selection provides a varied taste of our Treasure and Gold Coasts. Try a "Funky Buddha Floridian," or two. It's one of the better Hefeweizens I've had.

If you're a dog lover like me, you will be especially happy to hear that canines are welcome to dine on their outdoor patio as well. There's even a menu for Fido himself – complete with dog beer.

Coconut Grove's LoKal is a must-hit for anyone seeking a delicious and unique experience in Florida burgers and brews. Really, what's a local not to love about LoKal?