Fab Five A.M. Po'boys at The Spot and a Kinder, Gentler Mr. Chow Review

Linda Bladholm says The Spot on Alton Road is a swell place for meatball hoagies or po'boys, especially if you're wasted at 5 a.m. In fact, the place was inspired by two New York brothers who couldn't find "affordable food that wasn't pizza or junk after moving to the Beach in 2000." Open until 6 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, The Spot is a mix of "New York-style deli sandwiches and loosely interpreted Cajun, Caribbean and Southern comfort foods." And while they aren't "as big as the New Orleans originals, "the po'boys here are good sized with lightly spiced fried shrimp or fish beneath shredded lettuce in a soft roll." [Miami Herald]

Not everyone loathes Mr. Chow, especially Herald reviewer Victoria Pesce Elliott, who gave it two and a half stars, which is considered good, equating the "sparkling Mr. Chow" to a "fancy, flirty party on South Beach." In fact, it seemed as if they had VPE at hello. "Guests are greeted by a team of gorgeous models/hostesses and handed off to white-tuxedoed waiters who are better trained in the art of schmoozing than serving." As for the food, VPE wonders why you'd ask, saying, "The food? Do you really have to ask? It's good. Sometimes even delicious. But really, it's not about that." So what's it all about, Alfie? "I understand Madonna loves the place. Brad Pitt is said to favor the chicken satay and Jennifer Lopez the lobster. But I can't help thinking I'd really just love some good Chinese takeout." [MH]