If you’re hungry for the heart and soul of Hollywood, FL, look no further than the Driftwood neighborhood. Tucked just west of State Road 7, Driftwood might be low-key compared to its flashier neighbors, but the area boasts an impressively diverse and delicious dining scene. Whether you’re seeking a quick pastry, a family-run taqueria, or your new favorite coffee haunt, Driftwood’s restaurant roster delivers big on flavor, local flair, and friendly vibes.
Where Driftwood Dines: The Main Arteries
Most Driftwood favorites cluster along Hollywood Boulevard between N 64th Ave and 72nd Ave, as well as along Johnson Street. Here, you’ll find everything from casual food trucks to sit-down spots perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dig in!
Standout Restaurants and Local Favorites
*El Tamarindo Coal Fired Pizza*
Located at the corner of Hollywood Blvd and N 66th Ave, El Tamarindo is Driftwood’s go-to for handmade pizza with attitude. Forget your bland, cookie-cutter pies—these are coal-fired, cheesy masterpieces with a loyal following. Their Margherita is a classic, but regulars swear by the Cuban Pie, which nods to South Florida flavors. Prices are reasonable, with most pizzas under $20 and plenty of seating inside and out.
*Driftwood Diner*
This no-frills, welcoming classic sits just off Johnson Street, serving up comforting American fare. Their all-day breakfast, with fluffy pancakes and made-to-order omelets, brings in locals of all ages. Lunch specials—think homemade meatloaf and fresh turkey clubs—strike that perfect sweet spot of quality and affordability (most plates $8–$14). It’s the spot for Sunday morning catch-ups or when you just need a solid burger and fries.
*Tacontento Mex*
Just a block from Driftwood Middle School on N 68th Ave, Tacontento is the definition of a hidden gem. Family-owned and awash with color, it offers authentic street tacos, spicy enchiladas, and refreshing aguas frescas. Don’t miss the carnitas or the house-made salsa verde. Prices are wallet-friendly, with tacos averaging $3–$4 each, making it perfect for a casual meal anytime.
Café Culture and Sweet Stops
*Cafe Latte*
On the corner of Hollywood Blvd and N 71st Ave, Cafe Latte is Driftwood’s answer to hipster coffee bars. The vibe is relaxed, with indie music and vintage décor. House-baked pastries (try the guava cheese danish!) pair up nicely with expertly poured cappuccinos and Cuban cortaditos. It’s great for remote working, friend meetups, or a quick caffeine fix; plus, prices are in the $3–$8 range, making that afternoon treat totally justifiable.
*Sweet Delights Bakery*
A local treasure for over a decade, Sweet Delights on Johnson St is beloved for its decadent tres leches cake, seasonal fruit tarts, and impossibly soft cookies. The secret? Everything’s made fresh daily, with recipes passed down through generations. Pick up pastries for a crowd, or savor a slice of key lime pie at one of the sidewalk tables. Most sweets range from $2–$6.
Food Trucks & Curbside Eateries
One of Driftwood’s best-kept secrets is its eclectic mix of food trucks (especially on weekend nights). Check for the cluster in the parking lot at Hollywood Blvd and N 72nd Ave, where a rotating roster serves up everything from empanadas and arepas to smoked barbecue.
*The Rolling Grill*
A regular fixture, The Rolling Grill turns out juicy burgers topped with creative fixings, sweet-potato fries, and gooey grilled cheese. Their “BBQ Bacon Bomb” burger is a local legend and fully worth the $10.
*Antojitos La Doña*
Another frequent favorite, Antojitos La Doña dishes up Colombian street food like arepas rellenas and cheesy pandebono. Nothing cuts a humid Florida night like their fresh passion fruit juice or a crispy empanada.
Diverse Flavors, Global Inspiration
Driftwood’s food scene embraces its melting-pot community. Besides beloved pizza and tacos, look for mom-and-pop restaurants serving Caribbean, Latin American, and even Eastern European eats. Watch for:
*La Cabaña Hondureña*: Homey baleadas, plantains, and big plates of carne asada—perfect for sharing. Located just east of Driftwood Park on N 68th Ave.
*Taste of Poland*: Pierogi, stuffed cabbage, and borscht—these comfort foods have earned Taste of Poland a spot on locals’ must-try lists, even if you didn’t grow up with Eastern European grandmas.
Local Food Traditions & Community Events
Driftwood is deeply community-oriented, and this extends to its food. Throughout the year, look for:
- Seasonal farmer’s markets on the grounds of Driftwood Recreation Center, featuring everything from honey to pastelitos.
- Occasional neighborhood block parties, where food trucks and local vendors set up shop (especially in spring and fall).
- Annual chili cook-offs and backyard BBQs, which are as much about neighborly bonding as they are about food.
Tips for Eating Like a Driftwood Local
- Start the day with a Cuban coffee from Cafe Latte and a pastry from Sweet Delights.
- Grab tacos from Tacontento or order a pizza at El Tamarindo for a laid-back lunch.
- Cruise by the Hollywood Blvd food truck cluster on weekend evenings—don’t forget to try something new each time.
- For celebrations, book a table or order a cake from Sweet Delights.
- Ask your servers for “off-menu” specials—many Driftwood spots make something unique that’s only available for those in the know.
Why Driftwood’s Food Scene Stands Out
What sets Driftwood apart is its genuine neighborhood feel. Most restaurants are family-operated, service is neighborly, and you’re just as likely to run into the owner as you are a line cook. There’s a focus on quality, tradition, and community that big chains can’t match.
Each corner and cross street reveals a new flavor; every bakery case and grill has a story. In Driftwood, eating local isn’t a trend—it’s just the way things are done.
So next time you find yourself in Hollywood, FL, skip the predictable beachfront haunts. Head west, wander Driftwood’s welcoming streets, and bring a hearty appetite. Chances are, you’ll leave not just well fed, but with a few new favorite spots and maybe even a new neighborly friend.