Alexandra Lindheimer, Contributing Writer

Summer – in all of its glory – is officially over. Even though the summer’s SPF has been replaced by chemistry pH indicators, there is no reason to stop celebrating the laid-back attitude of a tropical vacation, even if only for an hour or two.

The Caribbean Restaurant, located on Lockland Avenue, right off of Silas Creek Parkway, offers an intriguing mix of rustic Caribbean cuisine with a carefree environment and friendly staff. The menu has pages of authentic dishes, separated by both region, between Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico,, and type of dish. Overall, prices are reasonable – starters range from $3 to $8 and entrees from $7 to $25.

Try the Tostones con Moho, which is a plate of delicious green plantain pieces lightly fried and served with a garlic dipping sauce. The most adventurous eater should try the Chivo Cuisado goat in Creole sauce, ($9.50), or the Cocido de Garbanzos, a thick, gumbo-like meaty soup ($7.50).

The specialty is Paella, a spicy rice dish, served in every way imaginable. Be prepared to wait about 45 minutes to an hour for this order because it’s prepared from scratch with fresh ingredients.

True to its island inspirations, The Caribbean has a fully stocked bar with specialty drinks, such as the “Cuban Libre,” and an impressive wine list and beer selection. Share a carafe of sangria ($11 for a large) – it’s a closely guarded family recipe from Mari, a Dominican waitress that works there.

Daily lunch specials are also offered and are quite easy on the wallet, ranging from about $5 to $15.

The Caribbean Restaurant is a wonderful reprieve from the everyday fare of Winston-Salem. Although it is not frequented by Wake students, it’s a refreshing change of pace and has a number of devoted patrons who are there for the food instead of the fancy. Leave the jacket, slip on some flip-flops (weather permitting), and adopt some island inspiration for a palatable break that won’t disappoint.