Miami, FL — South Florida PBS invites viewers to pull up a seat at the table for Legacy on a Plate: The Restaurants That Built South Florida, a new original documentary hosted by James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein. The special explores the rich history, cultural significance, and enduring legacy of the iconic restaurants that have helped define South Florida's unique culinary identity.
From family-owned institutions and beloved neighborhood favorites to internationally recognized dining destinations, Legacy on a Plate celebrates the people, traditions, and flavors that have brought communities together for generations. Through compelling stories, archival footage, and conversations with restaurant owners, chefs, and patrons, the documentary reveals how these establishments became cornerstones of South Florida's cultural landscape.
"Food has always been one of the most powerful ways we connect with one another and tell our stories," said Dolores Fernandez Alonso, President and CEO of South Florida PBS. "Legacy on a Plate showcases the restaurants that have shaped South Florida's identity while honoring the families, entrepreneurs, and communities whose traditions continue to enrich our region."
Hosted by acclaimed chef and restaurateur Michelle Bernstein, the documentary takes viewers on a flavorful journey through eight iconic South Florida establishments, each representing a unique chapter in the region's diverse culinary history.
Featured restaurants include:
• Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant (Dania Beach) – A beloved destination known for its larger-than-life ice cream creations and nostalgic charm.
• Okeechobee Steakhouse (West Palm Beach) – Florida's oldest continuously operating steakhouse and a symbol of enduring hospitality.
• Knaus Berry Farm (Miami-Dade County) – A seasonal institution famous for its cinnamon rolls and strawberry milkshakes.
• Clive's Café (Miami) – A celebrated gathering place showcasing authentic Jamaican cuisine and Caribbean culture.
• Jackson Soul Food (Miami) – A historic restaurant preserving generations of Southern and soul food traditions.
• Arbetter's Hot Dogs (Miami) – A neighborhood favorite serving classic chili dogs for decades.
• Islas Canarias (Miami) – A cornerstone of Miami's Cuban culinary heritage renowned for its authentic flavors and family recipes.
• Joe's Stone Crab (Miami Beach) – An internationally recognized institution and one of South Florida's most iconic dining destinations.
Throughout the documentary, Bernstein explores how these restaurants have weathered changing times, served generations of families, and become cultural landmarks that reflect the rich diversity of South Florida.
Legacy on a Plate: The Restaurants That Built South Florida premieres on:
Monday, July 13th at 9:00 PM on WPBT
Thursday, July 23rd at 10:00 PM on WXEL
Airs Every Friday online
The documentary underscores the role restaurants play not only as places to dine, but as gathering spaces where traditions are preserved, cultures are celebrated, and memories are made.
ABOUT SOUTH FLORIDA PBS:
South Florida PBS is Florida's largest public media company, including Public Broadcasting stations WXEL-TV, serving the Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast, and WPBT2, serving Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as well as the Health Channel, the nation's only 24/7 health-focused television channel. South Florida PBS connects organizations and institutions across the region while preserving South Florida's history and culture. The organization is committed to creating and presenting award-winning programming focused on education, arts and culture, health, environment, science, and civic engagement.
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