Tucked away from the bustle of central Pompano Beach, the Highlands neighborhood exudes a cozy, residential charm—and a surprisingly vibrant dining scene that locals cherish. Whether you’re after a classic Cuban breakfast, artisanal pastries, or flavors from the Caribbean and beyond, Highlands offers an array of memorable experiences for foodies who know where to look. Here’s your guide to the best eats, drinks, and foodie finds in this under-the-radar neighborhood.
Where the Flavor Clusters: Highlands’ Main Eat Streets
The heart of Highlands’ food scene lies along Sample Road (cornered at NE 18th Avenue), NW 3rd Avenue, and the neighborhoods flanking NE 23rd Street. Small, family-owned establishments predominate here—each bursting with distinct character and heartwarming flavors.
Homestyle Hits: Classic Neighborhood Diners & Cafés
- Cuban Café Restaurant (1598 E Sample Rd)
- This beloved local spot is the go-to for a hearty breakfast or lunch. Cuban Café Restaurant serves up strong café con leche, fluffy ham croquettes, and pressed Cuban sandwiches on fresh, pillowy bread. The prices are easy on the wallet ($-$$), and the vibe is always friendly—think formica booths, regulars chatting at the counter, and portions that never leave you hungry.
- *Why locals love it:* Authentic flavors, daily specials, and pastries made fresh every morning.
- Highlands Coffee House (1799 N Dixie Hwy)
- Find your caffeine fix and more in this artsy, welcoming café at the intersection of Dixie Hwy and NE 18th Ave. The baristas here take coffee seriously, while the pastry case overflows with house-made muffins and scones (try the guava cream cheese Danish!). Sandwiches and wraps make for a midday pick-me-up, and live jazz on weekends gives it a laidback neighborhood buzz.
- *Fave order:* Cuban cortadito with an oversized guava pastry.
Sweet Tooth Heaven: Bakeries & Dessert Spots
- La Dolce Vita Bakery (2335 NE 18th Ave)
- This Italian-French bakery shines with European-style sweets. Tarts, éclairs, buttery croissants, and seasonal cakes fill counters beautifully dusted with powdered sugar. Locals pop in for espresso and a biscotti, or to pick up artisanal loaves and celebration cakes.
- *Don’t miss:* The pistachio cannoli and a silky chocolate mousse slice.
- Las Delicias de la Abuela (On Sample Rd, food truck in rotation)
- When the crave for tres leches or guava pastelitos hits, this unfussy food truck satisfies. Specializing in Latin desserts and fresh churros, you’ll often spot it parked near popular intersections on Sample Road. It’s a crowd-pleaser after dinner or during weekend strolls.
Flavorful Feasts: Standout Restaurants & Hidden Gems
- Caribbean Corner Grill (1745 NW 3rd Ave)
- A true neighborhood gem, this modest spot dishes out soulful jerk chicken, curry goat, and thick slices of fried plantain. The aroma of allspice and scotch bonnet peppers wafts out the door, pulling you in. Expect generous portions, friendly service, and fair prices ($$).
- *Why go:* House-made spicy sauces and Friday oxtail stew specials.
- El Taco Loco Food Truck (rotates along NE 23rd St & Sample Rd)
- Evenings in Highlands aren’t complete without a visit to this buzzing food truck. Authentic Mexican street food—al pastor tacos shaved fresh onto griddled tortillas, savory birria, and zesty elotes—draws crowds from across Pompano Beach. Portions are generous and most plates under $10.
- *Must-try:* Their signature birria taco dipped in rich consommé.
- Mama Mia’s Little Italy (1620 E Sample Rd)
- For classic red-sauce Italian in a casual, family setting, Mama Mia’s is a local institution. Pizzas with crispy edges, heaping bowls of spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant parmesan—everything is made from scratch and arrives bubbling hot. With mid-range prices ($$) and an extensive wine list, it’s perfect for group dinners or date nights.
- *Hidden perks:* Early bird specials and homemade tiramisu.
A Taste of the Islands: Jamaican & Haitian Flavors
Highlands’ diverse community is reflected in its food, with Caribbean flavors easy to find on nearly every block. Look for small bakeries and takeout joints serving:
- Patties, callaloo, and saltfish at locally run Jamaican bakeries
- Flavor-packed griot and pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables) at Haitian takeout spots like Chez Nadine’s Kitchen (NE 23rd St)
- Be sure to ask about daily specials—locals swear by the spicy peanut stew and fried snapper.
Local Food Traditions & Specials
- Friday Fish Fry: Many local eateries, especially those influenced by Caribbean and Southern roots, roll out a fish fry every Friday. Crispy snapper, flakey mahi, fried plantains, and tangy slaw—served quick, hot, and affordable.
- Morning Pan de Bono Runs: Colombian bakeries pop up near Sample Road’s intersections, drawing lines for fresh-from-the-oven pan de bono (cheese bread) and steaming cups of hot chocolate. Stop by early for the best pick!
The Highlands Vibe: What Makes It Special
Highlands’ food scene isn’t about glitzy, high-concept restaurants—it’s about genuine warmth, home-cooked meals, and flavors passed down from one generation to the next. Whether you’re grabbing an empanada from a food truck, sitting down to a long family dinner, or chatting with a baker about the day’s sweets, you’ll feel welcomed as a neighbor. What’s more, many spots here are family-owned and proud of their heritage—don’t be shy about asking for recommendations or the story behind a dish!
Plan Your Culinary Tour
- Start your morning with an espresso or pastelito at a café on Sample Road
- Swing by a local bakery for sweet treats to go
- Try coconut rice and jerk chicken at a Caribbean grill for lunch
- Visit the food trucks along NE 23rd St for fresh tacos or patacón at sunset
- End with a classic Italian dinner or dessert from a neighborhood sweet shop
From sunrise coffee to late night bites, Highlands is a true hidden treasure for hungry locals and in-the-know visitors. Come with an appetite—and plan to come back for seconds.