Lario's on the Beach is being transformed into the SOBE Bongos Cafe, the latest edition of Cuban megastar Gloria Estefan's succesful Cuban restaurant chain. It's still right in the middle of South Beach and inexpensive.

Glenn: Gloria and Emilio loved the original Lario's so much they wanted to bring it closer to their South Beach offices. Very convenient! Gloria's star power helped the restaurant get started, and that's what keeps the crowds coming back night after night.

Jorge: You'll find a wide selection of authentic Cuban dishes at Lario's, including several delicious tortillas (omelets) and the classic Cuban sandwiches: sandwich Cubano, medianoche (the Cuban sandwich's sweeter cousin), pan con bistec (Cuban-style steak) , pan con lomo de puerco (pork loin) and the Elena Ruz.

Glenn: Try an Appetizer. The tamales and papa rellenas are always a great choice. For a real treat, order the tostones con mojo (plantains with garlic) or an excellent masitas -- fried pork chunks.

Raúl: When Jennifer Lopez was in Miami making a film with Sean Connery, she liked the food so much she ate there every day.

Jorge: She must have really liked the food. She ended up marrying her waiter!

Glenn: Really? Wow. Maybe we should all try to get jobs there -- as waiters!

Raúl: I don't think our wives would like that.

Glenn: Hey readers, have you ever tried a Cuban Hamburger? Order the frita Cubana for a different twist on the American favorite.

Raúl: Beef lovers will like the bistec de palomilla (palomilla steak), churrasco, boliche (Cuban pot roast) and the vaca frita (fried beef), here made with tender skirt steak. We especially liked the pechuga de pollo rellena con Camarones (chicken breast stuffed with shrimp) and enchilado de pescado (fish Creole).

Jorge: Don't forget the dessert. They are good here with several flavors of flan and a rich tres leches cake. Big enough for two to share, unless you're still hungry after that great dinner.

Glenn: If you're not in South Beach, check out their sister restaurant, "Casa Larios" in West Miami. It's the original restaurant (owned by Quemtim Larios) and features a huge menu with more than 100 items.

Jorge: I actually think the food is better at Casa Larios.

Glenn: I love the beach as much as anyone, but getting to South Beach can be a real hassle. If I just want lunch or dinner (and I'm not already in South Beach), Casa Larios is a lot more convenient.

ATMOSPHERE: Miami Casual

PRICES: Entrees priced less than $15, several sandwiches and appetizers priced less than $6.

HOURS: Larios on the Beach/Bongo's: Sunday -Thursday 11:30 AM-Midnight | Friday and Saturday 11:30 AM to 2:00 AM | Casa Larios: Daily 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM

CARDS: American Express, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa

BAR: Full

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