Dougie's - Miami Beach

At long last, Dougie's of New York has opened an outpost on Miami Beach. As many of you have requested a review...

I've received varying reports over the past two weeks, so thought that I should check it out. You may or may not be glad to know that my visit left me with the same indigestion as their Manhattan branch.

Atmosphere: Cavernous, at least the section that I sat in; it would be deafening if filled with customers, more so with families. The menu that was handed to me had grease on the cover... The interior could use some wall hangings, better if sound dampening. Otherwise, "dineresque". The bathrooms were very clean.

Service: Well...they're young and new; had trouble placing anything on the table without spillage. Certainly inexperienced. Could they have been shipped down from N.Y.? But they seemed to be trying. Our food was brought VERY quickly - too! The Fire Starters (chicken dredged, fried and served in a hot sauce) appetizer and mains were served at the same time. Water was served immediately with no request, which was a nice change, and the carafe was left on the table.

Food: The aforementioned appetizer was good, as in N.Y., and was probably the cause of the aforementioned upset stomach. I ordered the basic beef burger w/fries, which came with all necessary garnishes, and was good. My non-Jewish companion had the basic burger in turkey; he enjoyed everything very much. (I was slightly surprised.) The Cokes - my regular and his Diet - seemed a bit flat; strange.

Cost: $50 for two with tip, so comparable to Sam's.

All-in-all it was a decent experience, though I would hate to be there when crowded. We both left quite satiated; I to the extent that I'll forego dinner. Of course, there is the stomach problem...

Dougie's

468 41 St.

Miami Beach (next to Chicken Kitchen at 41st and Royal Palm)

305-604-8800

Supervision: KM