With a good deal of unexpected time on my hands in Vero Beach, Florida, and having recently been disappointed by Cuban cuisine in Miami (surprisingly) I had given up on finding anything during this trip. My wife was told about a place in Vero that was being called "the best Cuban food within the entire area." We sought out Felix's Place (billed as "Cuban Gormet Cuisine") and were very impressed. While not a professional food critic, I was raised by a professional chef of ethnic specialization, and have traveled the world, sampling all types of food along the way. Felix (the humble but enthusiastic owner) has it figured out.

What impressed me the most was not the outstanding food. It was the fact that such excellent food and the outstanding décor of the restaurant was contained within the most unexpected, nondescript building. Attached to a Chevron gas station….seriously…..Felix’s Place (see photos) is literally a hidden jewel. I enjoyed a wonderful seafood dish (the name has escaped me) served on a large plate with a velvety traditional Cuban red sauce. My colleague enjoyed a beautifully prepared leg of pork, also served in a delightful sauce. Each dish came with choice of 2 sides (I chose yellow rice and black beans...boiled yucca and white rice were also available among others.) My experience with Cuban food is very limited, but I was surprised that the sides (unlike the main courses) all seemed to be very bland. The entrees themselves, however, were very flavorful and satisfying.

Felix himself is an amazing attraction at the restaurant (that is, IF he has time to speak with you.) He’s a Cuban immigrant with an amazing story that could easily be made into a feature film, and a long history as a culinary professional specializing in Cuban (of course) and Spanish excellence. His explanation for the unlikely location? Cost, mainly. After initial success, he plans to upgrade. I guess there’s nothing more to say than this: whether you live in the Vero Beach area, plan to visit there, or are just passing by on I-95, make sure you get to Felix’s Place. And if you’re foolish enough to let the exterior dissuade you from the beautiful décor, people, and food inside, I promise it will be your loss. Details below. Enjoy!

Felix’s Place
[--]