Top BYOB Restaurants In South Florida

Of the thousands of restaurants in South Florida, those that let you bring in your own bottle (BYOB) are few and far between. But there are some dining establishments that have made it known (and others that try to keep it quiet) that their patrons are welcome to carry in their drink of choice. Why would they do that? Some restaurants do it because they don't have a liquor license or their license hasn't yet arrived, and some do it just to attract business. Whatever the reason, it's kind of fun and it's easier on your wallet. Here are some favorite places to BYOB in South Florida

Chefs On The Run
10 E. Mowry Drive
Homestead, FL 33031
(305) 245-0085
www.chefsontheruninhomestead.com

As the only restaurant from Homestead to be invited to the SoBe Wine and Food Fest (and the big winner of Sunday's Best Bite on the Beach at the Grand Tasting Village), this place is worth the drive every time. It is like the United Colors of Benetton of cuisine as Chef Jodrick serves up everything from Puerto Rican mofongo to Mongolian pork to Greek tabbouleh. Come on down and take your taste buds on a magic carpet ride around the world - and yes, you can carry in your own bottle.

El Toro Taco
1 S. Krome Ave.
Homestead, FL 33030
(305) 245-8182
www.facebook.com/El-Toro-Taco-Homestead

Bring in an entire cooler or just a paper bag filled with your favorite big can of beer or bottle of wine. El Toro Taco is flexible. It'll keep your bottle chilled, it never charges a corking fee and the food is good and inexpensive. If you visit on the weekend, you can even catch a live mariachi band performing. Raise a plastic glass and toast the homemade guacamole made from local, Homestead avocados. And don't miss the queso dip or barbacoa tacos.

Related: Best Burritos In Miami

Sawaddee Thai
6968 Bay Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33141
(305) 866-8111

Lovers of Thai food are rejoicing over this Miami Beach staple. Start off with a bowl of tom kha gai soup or spring rolls. You'll be so pleased by the time your entree arrives that you'll be smiling big (or maybe your smile is due to the fact that you can BYOB at a great restaurant on Miami Beach). One other thing you might want to bring is a flashlight as this place is cozy and really dark. It is definitely a good place for a romantic date.

Kenny Tang's
10615 W. Atlantic Blvd.
Coral Springs, FL 33071
(954) 227-2201
www.kennytangs.com

Chef and owner Kenny Tang is a master in the kitchen (and sushi bar). Even presidents have experienced his dim sum. When Barack Obama stayed at the Biltmore, they called Chef Tang to feed the President his Thai scallop spring rolls (for starters). Whether you're craving dim sum (best you'll ever have), something gluten-free, wok stir fry or fresh sushi, stop on in and pour your own drink.

Anacapri Restaurant And Market
12669 S. Dixie Highway
Pinecrest, FL 33156
(305) 255-2521
www.anacaprifood.com

Many Italian restaurants close on Monday but Anacapri steps up and waives its corkage fee (normally $25 per bottle). That means you can bring in your favorite bottle of wine and your server will graciously open it and pour it for you with your dinner. Best of all, Anacapri's Italian food is a trip to Italy for your taste buds. Start with the spiedini alla Romano (golden fried mozzarella and brioche with amazing tomato sauce). Another bit of advice, the Melanzane Parmigiana is known as the most exquisite this side of Italy.

Related: Best Italian Restaurants In South Florida

Jill Martin is a family travel expert, appearing on numerous television and radio shows. She spent five years as the VISIT FLORIDA Family Insider, has penned children's books, and is the creator of Sunshine Brain Games – trivia cards about Florida. A Miami native, Jill resides in Redland. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.