956 S. Federal Hwy
Deerfield Beach, Fla.
Small town fun with a big city ambiance finds its home here. The small corner pub in the Village Shopping Center on Federal Highway and Southeast 10th Street marks the spots for a lot of residents, espeically those in the Cove residential area.
And if you drive past the place and the parking lot seems empty, don't be shy about walking in and checking it out. Here, an empty parking lot does not mean an empty bar. A lot of the residents walk, which helps create some of the craziness inside. Since they don't have to worry about the ride home, they throw back beers with no worries.
The bar acts as host to several beers on tap, although most of them are just your regular beers. For the most part you won't find anything extraordinary.
For a small pub like this, food is expected to be full of fried and fatty delish, however this is not the case here. You will of course find the usual bar food: wings, fries, nachos, etc. However, you will also find amazing chicken caesar wraps and salads as well.
To compliment the taste is the price. For about the same cost as a Super-Sized McDonald's meal you can have a full dinner worth the calories.
Be sure to make friends with the bartender. If you get bored, ask to see a magic trick. He is full of them, and actually does it part-time outside the bar. I unfortunately can not give him name. I just can't remember it.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Rustic Inn's Garlic Crabs Worth the Work
4331 Ravenswood Rd.
Dania, Fla
Will work for food, but only if the food is Rustic Inn's World Famous Garlic Crabs.
These little suckers come in bucket size portions, drowned in a heavy garlic and butter sauce, and a much needed bib. Tables lines with old newspapers serve and the stomping grounds used to open up the crabs. And a mallet filled crowd lines the seats ready to beat the table in celebration for any birthdays called out over the PA system.
If your not a fan of seafood, I don't recommend you venture here unless you are a willing participant. Even if you skip out on the crabs, your bound to get hit with some part of it. But if you really care about the people around you, suffer through it and order your land meal.
I can't vouch for much else but the crabs and the soups. That is all I have ever and will ever order there. And if you're a fan of conch, the chowder is the best I have ever had north of the Florida Keys.
On nice days, sit outside on the deck. You get a view of the canal, which is not the prettiest site, but it is filled with hungry Tarpon just waiting for any leftover to be thrown their way. It can be really funny to watch them fight eachother for the one savory bittle that makes it over.
Dania, Fla
Will work for food, but only if the food is Rustic Inn's World Famous Garlic Crabs.
These little suckers come in bucket size portions, drowned in a heavy garlic and butter sauce, and a much needed bib. Tables lines with old newspapers serve and the stomping grounds used to open up the crabs. And a mallet filled crowd lines the seats ready to beat the table in celebration for any birthdays called out over the PA system.
If your not a fan of seafood, I don't recommend you venture here unless you are a willing participant. Even if you skip out on the crabs, your bound to get hit with some part of it. But if you really care about the people around you, suffer through it and order your land meal.
I can't vouch for much else but the crabs and the soups. That is all I have ever and will ever order there. And if you're a fan of conch, the chowder is the best I have ever had north of the Florida Keys.
On nice days, sit outside on the deck. You get a view of the canal, which is not the prettiest site, but it is filled with hungry Tarpon just waiting for any leftover to be thrown their way. It can be really funny to watch them fight eachother for the one savory bittle that makes it over.
Play Like a Kid at Boomers in Dania
1700 NW 1st St.
Dania, Fla.
If you ever look at the roller coaster as you pass Boomers on I-95 and wonder if it's okay for a grown adult to go there and play like a kid, well here's your answer. It is, but only if you play your heart out and forget all your worries.
While there is no magic potion to turn back time, a trip here really is the next best thing. With everything from the mile long go-kart track to laser tag, the wooden roller coaster to the batting cages and miniature golf, this is the place to satisfy all your childhood desires.
And pricing can't be what's stopping you if you never went. Tuesdays and Thursdays are the big special days where you pay $12 for unlimited arcade games and miniature golf and $22 for unlimited everything. That's a small price to pay for so much fun and laughter.
Another thing they offer is birthday parties. While I don't suggest overpaying for the food and drinks that come with a normal kids party, I do suggest rallying up a group of friends and heading down there for the day as a birthday party. It's a great way to make yourself feel young, espeically if your celebrating one of your "scary" birthdays.
Dania, Fla.
If you ever look at the roller coaster as you pass Boomers on I-95 and wonder if it's okay for a grown adult to go there and play like a kid, well here's your answer. It is, but only if you play your heart out and forget all your worries.
While there is no magic potion to turn back time, a trip here really is the next best thing. With everything from the mile long go-kart track to laser tag, the wooden roller coaster to the batting cages and miniature golf, this is the place to satisfy all your childhood desires.
And pricing can't be what's stopping you if you never went. Tuesdays and Thursdays are the big special days where you pay $12 for unlimited arcade games and miniature golf and $22 for unlimited everything. That's a small price to pay for so much fun and laughter.
Another thing they offer is birthday parties. While I don't suggest overpaying for the food and drinks that come with a normal kids party, I do suggest rallying up a group of friends and heading down there for the day as a birthday party. It's a great way to make yourself feel young, espeically if your celebrating one of your "scary" birthdays.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Dancing on the Tables Expected at Taverna Opa!!
410 N. Ocean Dr., Hollywood, Fla.
3051 N.E. 32nd St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
36-40 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach, Fla.
Quiet sit down dinner this is not. Rather this is the place where dancing on the tables in between dinner courses is encouraged, if not expected!
The atmosphere here is so upbeat and lively you can't help but come out of your shell. If that doesn't do it, the bottles of frosty wine, Greek beer, and shots of Ouzo will. By the end of dinner, even the most sour puss of pusses will be throwing napkins and screaming Opa!
The prices here are average for this type of restaurant, with the only downside being the portion size. The food is the best Greek around town, but it's served a la carte so you will have to order everything seperate, which can really add up. Be careful what you are ordering. The wait staff is quick to keep bringing out bottles of whatever you are drinking and rounds of shots you didn't order. The best advice I can offer is check your tab often because your tab and quickly go from $50 to $150. And if you didn't order it, don't just drink/eat it thinking it's on the house. It's not, it's on you.
That aside, drink up. Order the house wine, which comes so cold there are little ice pieces floating inside. And DO NOT leave without at least one shot of Ouzo. For the really brave order a round, get up on the table and toast your neighbors while dancing with the staff on top of the picnic style tables. If your still seated by the end of your meal, you didn't get what you deserve.
Before you go, check out the menu at www.tavernaoparestaurant.com. They list prices and the full menu in case your a picky eater.
3051 N.E. 32nd St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
36-40 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach, Fla.
Quiet sit down dinner this is not. Rather this is the place where dancing on the tables in between dinner courses is encouraged, if not expected!
The atmosphere here is so upbeat and lively you can't help but come out of your shell. If that doesn't do it, the bottles of frosty wine, Greek beer, and shots of Ouzo will. By the end of dinner, even the most sour puss of pusses will be throwing napkins and screaming Opa!
The prices here are average for this type of restaurant, with the only downside being the portion size. The food is the best Greek around town, but it's served a la carte so you will have to order everything seperate, which can really add up. Be careful what you are ordering. The wait staff is quick to keep bringing out bottles of whatever you are drinking and rounds of shots you didn't order. The best advice I can offer is check your tab often because your tab and quickly go from $50 to $150. And if you didn't order it, don't just drink/eat it thinking it's on the house. It's not, it's on you.
That aside, drink up. Order the house wine, which comes so cold there are little ice pieces floating inside. And DO NOT leave without at least one shot of Ouzo. For the really brave order a round, get up on the table and toast your neighbors while dancing with the staff on top of the picnic style tables. If your still seated by the end of your meal, you didn't get what you deserve.
Before you go, check out the menu at www.tavernaoparestaurant.com. They list prices and the full menu in case your a picky eater.
Mizner Park in Boca Raton Helps Indecisive Decide
433 Plaza Real
Boca Raton, Fla. 33432
If you've never noticed the large area on Federal Highway just north of Palmetto Park Road on the east side, maybe you should get your eyes checked. If you have seen it but never stopped to dine, shop, see a movie, check out the museum, see a show, or been a part of an event, you are missing out on one of South Florida's hidden treasures.
I say hidden treasure because it really is a locals spot, and during the season we're in now when all the snow birds come south and spring break is in full swing, we locals need a place like this.
If your looking for something to do but you have no idea what you feel like eating, or what you want to do afterwards, check this place out because it literally has everything to offer.
They have several restaurants on site including Ruth Chris' Steakhouse if you want fancy, or Ruby Tuesday's if your more low key. Then head over to the museum and check out the current artist or head over to the movie theater which shows the latest movies. One downfall of this theater is movie times, so beware that they are not a fan of late showings and you will not find a midnight movie here. Most end by 8 p.m.
If your in more of an outside mood, check out a live show. They are famous for having good B-List performers. Next month they feature Meatloaf, and in April they have performers such as Jesse McCartney and The Steve Miller Band.
To see a full list of restaurants or see what's going on tonight, check out their website at www.miznerpark.com.
Boca Raton, Fla. 33432
If you've never noticed the large area on Federal Highway just north of Palmetto Park Road on the east side, maybe you should get your eyes checked. If you have seen it but never stopped to dine, shop, see a movie, check out the museum, see a show, or been a part of an event, you are missing out on one of South Florida's hidden treasures.
I say hidden treasure because it really is a locals spot, and during the season we're in now when all the snow birds come south and spring break is in full swing, we locals need a place like this.
If your looking for something to do but you have no idea what you feel like eating, or what you want to do afterwards, check this place out because it literally has everything to offer.
They have several restaurants on site including Ruth Chris' Steakhouse if you want fancy, or Ruby Tuesday's if your more low key. Then head over to the museum and check out the current artist or head over to the movie theater which shows the latest movies. One downfall of this theater is movie times, so beware that they are not a fan of late showings and you will not find a midnight movie here. Most end by 8 p.m.
If your in more of an outside mood, check out a live show. They are famous for having good B-List performers. Next month they feature Meatloaf, and in April they have performers such as Jesse McCartney and The Steve Miller Band.
To see a full list of restaurants or see what's going on tonight, check out their website at www.miznerpark.com.
Cheap Drinks and Good Food are a Quarterdeck Specialty
8 locations around South Florida
Check their Website at for exact locations.
If you like noisy restaurants with cheap drink specials and great food, here is your place. You have your choice: can either sit enjoying a frosty beer with friends relaxing in one of their famous swinging table loungers, or sit inside with the crowd and cheer on whatever sports game is currently playing across one of the many TV screens inside. You pick, it's your night.
The food here is great, and reasonably priced. My favorite things are the appetizers, which I always get as a meal. Try out the Grouper sticks, which as far as I can find are actually Grouper. Also get the Artichoke Spinach Crab Dip, which is probably the best around. I won't lie to you, it is imitation crab (something I actually don't like) but it's worth it even if you pick out the crab just for the flavor of the rest. I promise you won't be disapointed.
The Website also advertises a rib special of $10.99 for a full rack of ribs with cole slaw, but you have to purchase a drink and any other sides are additional. I have never personally had the ribs, but I hear they are actually really good, especially for a raw bar atmosphere like this. And while they don't list their drink specials, beer runs very cheap here. And even cheaper if you get it on tap.
And don't forget, they have a location in Davie just north of Geronimo's. So when they call "Last Call" finish up your last drink and head down.
Check their Website at for exact locations.
If you like noisy restaurants with cheap drink specials and great food, here is your place. You have your choice: can either sit enjoying a frosty beer with friends relaxing in one of their famous swinging table loungers, or sit inside with the crowd and cheer on whatever sports game is currently playing across one of the many TV screens inside. You pick, it's your night.
The food here is great, and reasonably priced. My favorite things are the appetizers, which I always get as a meal. Try out the Grouper sticks, which as far as I can find are actually Grouper. Also get the Artichoke Spinach Crab Dip, which is probably the best around. I won't lie to you, it is imitation crab (something I actually don't like) but it's worth it even if you pick out the crab just for the flavor of the rest. I promise you won't be disapointed.
The Website also advertises a rib special of $10.99 for a full rack of ribs with cole slaw, but you have to purchase a drink and any other sides are additional. I have never personally had the ribs, but I hear they are actually really good, especially for a raw bar atmosphere like this. And while they don't list their drink specials, beer runs very cheap here. And even cheaper if you get it on tap.
And don't forget, they have a location in Davie just north of Geronimo's. So when they call "Last Call" finish up your last drink and head down.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Geronimos, an After Hours Spot for Bars That Close at 2 a.m.
3528 S. University Dr. Davie, Fla. 33328
954-474-9998
Thursday nights may ladies night at the chain of Miller's Ale Houses, but if you're looking for somewhere to hit after closing time at 2 a.m., follow the crowd south to Geronimos. Nestled inside the plaza just 1.5 miles south of I-595 or 1/2 mile north of Griffin Road to the rear of Pier 1 Imports, this bar serves up drinks till the wee hours of the morning, especially for a bar out west. The bartenders are friendly and quick, never making you wait very long for your drink, if you wait at all.
The best thing is that the drinks are cheap. I can't quote exact prices, because like I said, it's really an after hours place and well, I can't quite remember those types of things. But what I do know is that after a "really great night out," I never wake up the next morning to see a credit card receipt I regret. Check out their website at www.geronimosbar.com for exact prices, although I think they have specials running which they didn't post on the site.
Another website I found while researching this bar was
. Try out this site as a quick reference when looking up ratings for a bar or restaurant. They are limited on the amount of places they have rated, but use a very simple grading scale to examine it. It's easy and quick, two things I love.
Cheers
954-474-9998
Thursday nights may ladies night at the chain of Miller's Ale Houses, but if you're looking for somewhere to hit after closing time at 2 a.m., follow the crowd south to Geronimos. Nestled inside the plaza just 1.5 miles south of I-595 or 1/2 mile north of Griffin Road to the rear of Pier 1 Imports, this bar serves up drinks till the wee hours of the morning, especially for a bar out west. The bartenders are friendly and quick, never making you wait very long for your drink, if you wait at all.
The best thing is that the drinks are cheap. I can't quote exact prices, because like I said, it's really an after hours place and well, I can't quite remember those types of things. But what I do know is that after a "really great night out," I never wake up the next morning to see a credit card receipt I regret. Check out their website at www.geronimosbar.com for exact prices, although I think they have specials running which they didn't post on the site.
Another website I found while researching this bar was
. Try out this site as a quick reference when looking up ratings for a bar or restaurant. They are limited on the amount of places they have rated, but use a very simple grading scale to examine it. It's easy and quick, two things I love.
Cheers
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Bonefish Grille, a Chain Restaurant with a Homecooked Feel
My Favorite one ... 1455 N. University Dr. Coral Springs, Fla 33071 // 954-509-0405
Ok, so this is supposed to be a blog detailing places off the block, where not everyone knows about them. But I just couldn't help adding this place in because I absolutely love it, and if you haven't been there you are definitely missing out.
The chain, which is owned by the Outback Steakhouse Company, was founded in 2000 in St. Petersburg, Fla., however recently came into the South Florida scene only about two years ago.
Since my first visit, I have been hooked, and regular this place about once a week or every other week at the very least. The atmosphere is "polished casual," according to the website (www.bonefishgrill.com). I don't recommend you mosey in wearing sweats and flip flops, which is acceptable in most Outback restaurants. Instead, dress a little bit nicer, as the service is white linen and the servers act accordingly. On the other hand, you don't have to dress to the nines either.
Let me make one suggestion: try everything on the menu. From fish to steak to pork loins, its all amazing.
Here are some of my favorites ....
Bang-Bang Shrimp ... which is fried shrimp tossed in a spicy sauce that is so good you'll want to lick it off the bowl. Which you will!!
Mussles Josephine ... a twist on the usual mussels we're used to in Italian restaurants. Sweet and full of basil. When you order this forget the oil, dip the bread in this!!
Tenderloin Portabella Piccata ... tender pork loins dusted in bread crumbs and sauteed with piccata sauce.
Any type of fish, covered in Tomato, Lime, Garlic sauce ... I can't even explain it. Think your favorite fish, cooked to perfection, then smothered in a sauce so good you can eat it by itself when all the fish is gone.
Pommagranate Martini ... the perfect before dinner drink
Key Lime Martini ... the perfect after dinner drink
Ok, so this is supposed to be a blog detailing places off the block, where not everyone knows about them. But I just couldn't help adding this place in because I absolutely love it, and if you haven't been there you are definitely missing out.
The chain, which is owned by the Outback Steakhouse Company, was founded in 2000 in St. Petersburg, Fla., however recently came into the South Florida scene only about two years ago.
Since my first visit, I have been hooked, and regular this place about once a week or every other week at the very least. The atmosphere is "polished casual," according to the website (www.bonefishgrill.com). I don't recommend you mosey in wearing sweats and flip flops, which is acceptable in most Outback restaurants. Instead, dress a little bit nicer, as the service is white linen and the servers act accordingly. On the other hand, you don't have to dress to the nines either.
Let me make one suggestion: try everything on the menu. From fish to steak to pork loins, its all amazing.
Here are some of my favorites ....
Bang-Bang Shrimp ... which is fried shrimp tossed in a spicy sauce that is so good you'll want to lick it off the bowl. Which you will!!
Mussles Josephine ... a twist on the usual mussels we're used to in Italian restaurants. Sweet and full of basil. When you order this forget the oil, dip the bread in this!!
Tenderloin Portabella Piccata ... tender pork loins dusted in bread crumbs and sauteed with piccata sauce.
Any type of fish, covered in Tomato, Lime, Garlic sauce ... I can't even explain it. Think your favorite fish, cooked to perfection, then smothered in a sauce so good you can eat it by itself when all the fish is gone.
Pommagranate Martini ... the perfect before dinner drink
Key Lime Martini ... the perfect after dinner drink
Howard Stern's Beetlejuice Comes to Stage in Boca
New York Comedy Club
8221 Glades Rd.
Boca Raton, Fla. 33434
561-470-6887
Fans of the Howard Stern show circa five years ago when Beetlejuice debuted into the Wack Pack will be excited to hear he has found a career of his own, namely as a stand up comedian.
Although he is not the main feature of the show he is working with Rev. Bob Levy, who is also a Stern regular. Unfortunately for Levy, I'm sure Beetlejuice will be the star of the show and most people showing up for the event will be there to witness him first hand.
I am a huge fan of stand-up comedy, but have never been to the New York Comedy Club. After checking out their site at www.nyccboca.com, I may be venturing my way north to test out the waters. Located one block west of the Florida Turnpike on Glades Road, NYCC hosts less famous comedians than its competition, however at much much cheaper prices. An average show lists for a price of $12 for weekend shows, with some weekday shows priced at an unbeatable price of $5. For this specific event, which is Friday March 16th and Saturday March 17th, the price is $19.75. Check the website for showtimes.
Just a note, tickets are non-refundable and you must present a valid ID in order to pick up your tickets from Will Call. If you do not have one, you will not be refunded the ticket price, and you must be 18+ to enter. Most comedy clubs require a two drink minimum, although I couldn't find anything on the site saying this. Again, call to find out.
8221 Glades Rd.
Boca Raton, Fla. 33434
561-470-6887
Fans of the Howard Stern show circa five years ago when Beetlejuice debuted into the Wack Pack will be excited to hear he has found a career of his own, namely as a stand up comedian.
Although he is not the main feature of the show he is working with Rev. Bob Levy, who is also a Stern regular. Unfortunately for Levy, I'm sure Beetlejuice will be the star of the show and most people showing up for the event will be there to witness him first hand.
I am a huge fan of stand-up comedy, but have never been to the New York Comedy Club. After checking out their site at www.nyccboca.com, I may be venturing my way north to test out the waters. Located one block west of the Florida Turnpike on Glades Road, NYCC hosts less famous comedians than its competition, however at much much cheaper prices. An average show lists for a price of $12 for weekend shows, with some weekday shows priced at an unbeatable price of $5. For this specific event, which is Friday March 16th and Saturday March 17th, the price is $19.75. Check the website for showtimes.
Just a note, tickets are non-refundable and you must present a valid ID in order to pick up your tickets from Will Call. If you do not have one, you will not be refunded the ticket price, and you must be 18+ to enter. Most comedy clubs require a two drink minimum, although I couldn't find anything on the site saying this. Again, call to find out.
Beer Drinkers Find Solace at the Ye Olde Falcon Pub in Davie
2867 South University Dr.
Davie, Fla.
www.yeoldefalconpub.com
With over 33 beer on tap and 131 imported and domestic bottled beers, you are sure to find your taste here.
The Ye Olde Falcon Pub is located on the west side on University Drive in the brown colored plaze just north of Bally's Fitness, right down the street from BCC and FAU's Davie campuses, and Nova Southeatern. Saying that, this is a college crowd that regulars this hometown spot. But if you worry about feeling old or out of place, do not. This is a great place to drink and meet people, no matter what age you are.
Monday nights are Karoke nights, and the people who sing are full of liquid courage, except the girl who runs the show who can actually really sing. Even if you have never embarassed yourself standing in front of a crowd singing your heart out, you will probably join in and muster the guts. Beware!!
They also serve food, which is no regular bar food. While a lot of it is the usual, it is really good. My favorite is the Spinach Dip or Eddie's Famous Fish & Chips. Try either and you're sure to go back. But before you go, check out the website. It's probably one of the best I've seen for a small local bar and has the entire menu and pricing listed, as well as daily specials and events. They are open late, but the kitchen closes at midnight.
Hours: Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-4 a.m. and Sun Noon-4 a.m
Davie, Fla.
www.yeoldefalconpub.com
With over 33 beer on tap and 131 imported and domestic bottled beers, you are sure to find your taste here.
The Ye Olde Falcon Pub is located on the west side on University Drive in the brown colored plaze just north of Bally's Fitness, right down the street from BCC and FAU's Davie campuses, and Nova Southeatern. Saying that, this is a college crowd that regulars this hometown spot. But if you worry about feeling old or out of place, do not. This is a great place to drink and meet people, no matter what age you are.
Monday nights are Karoke nights, and the people who sing are full of liquid courage, except the girl who runs the show who can actually really sing. Even if you have never embarassed yourself standing in front of a crowd singing your heart out, you will probably join in and muster the guts. Beware!!
They also serve food, which is no regular bar food. While a lot of it is the usual, it is really good. My favorite is the Spinach Dip or Eddie's Famous Fish & Chips. Try either and you're sure to go back. But before you go, check out the website. It's probably one of the best I've seen for a small local bar and has the entire menu and pricing listed, as well as daily specials and events. They are open late, but the kitchen closes at midnight.
Hours: Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-4 a.m. and Sun Noon-4 a.m
Martinis and Movies Add a Twist to Weekend Nights
Muvico Palace 20
3200 Airport Rd.
Boca Raton, Fla. 33431
561-395-9009
www.muvico.com
Movie fans beware, once you visit the Muvico Palace 20, you won't go back to the rinky little theatre your used to. Especially if you go upstairs and watch a movie in one of their six Premier Theaters where popcorn in free, seats are twice the normal size, arm rests can go up and down, and you can eat dinner or drink alcoholic beverages while watching the latest flick.
Tickets start at $7 for matinee seats at the Palace, and $15.75 for the Premier. I suggest splurging and sitting upstairs in the Premier. The price is just over twice normal ticket, but when you add in free popcorn and valet parking there isn't much of a difference. And you can't put a price on a seat where you sit in a seat pre-picked by you and if someone does sit right next to you, there is enough room in your seat so that you don't have to elbow spar for the arm rest.
All this aside, an added bonus is the drinks. It really makes for a great date place because you buy your ticket, take the escalator ride upstairs to the bar/restaurant, then watch the movie. All in one place without the car ride. And you can bring your drink right into the theatre. I suggest getting any of the martinis. You get enough to fill at least two glasses inside a take-home shaker. I'm not sure of the prices, but they are definitely worth it.
If you do decide to go, check out http://ae.miami.com/entertainment/ui/miami/theater.html?id=23 for movie times rather than the Muvico website. It is more reader friendly and gives you directions in case you are one to get lost.
3200 Airport Rd.
Boca Raton, Fla. 33431
561-395-9009
www.muvico.com
Movie fans beware, once you visit the Muvico Palace 20, you won't go back to the rinky little theatre your used to. Especially if you go upstairs and watch a movie in one of their six Premier Theaters where popcorn in free, seats are twice the normal size, arm rests can go up and down, and you can eat dinner or drink alcoholic beverages while watching the latest flick.
Tickets start at $7 for matinee seats at the Palace, and $15.75 for the Premier. I suggest splurging and sitting upstairs in the Premier. The price is just over twice normal ticket, but when you add in free popcorn and valet parking there isn't much of a difference. And you can't put a price on a seat where you sit in a seat pre-picked by you and if someone does sit right next to you, there is enough room in your seat so that you don't have to elbow spar for the arm rest.
All this aside, an added bonus is the drinks. It really makes for a great date place because you buy your ticket, take the escalator ride upstairs to the bar/restaurant, then watch the movie. All in one place without the car ride. And you can bring your drink right into the theatre. I suggest getting any of the martinis. You get enough to fill at least two glasses inside a take-home shaker. I'm not sure of the prices, but they are definitely worth it.
If you do decide to go, check out http://ae.miami.com/entertainment/ui/miami/theater.html?id=23 for movie times rather than the Muvico website. It is more reader friendly and gives you directions in case you are one to get lost.
South Florida's Elite Meet at Cafe Martorano
3343 E. Oakland Park Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33308
954-561-2554
www.cafemartorano.com
Ok, so this is the place to see and be seen. Even standing out front of this swaky Italian joint gives you the feel of being in some celebrity magazine, or at least watching one in motion. The front of the restaurant is lined with Bentley's, Rolls Royce's, Masaretti's, and any other extremely high end car you can think of. But it doesn't stop there. Inside you have a grouping of the most elite and wealthy people South Florida has to offer. Just to give you an example: Shaq, Al Pacino, and Dan Marino are patron saints of this joint.
The inside of the restaurant is like Soprano's meets well, Soprano's. And there is a reason for that as the owner Steve Martorano is actually "the" chef for Soprano's events. Each table is set back in little cove like places, so that you and your party get their own personal section to do whatever you want in privacy. Food is served family style, and your best bet is to let the chef choose you meal for you, as you will not be let down. If possible, get the Fried Calamari. This is hands down the best dish I have EVER had in a restaurant.
The only downside is that this night out will set you back quite a lot. Prepare to spend at least $100 per person for dinner and maybe a drink or two, and possibly more depending on what the menu for the night is. When we went, the bill was over $1200 for ten people with drinks, PLUS tip which at 18 percent is a whopping $214. Oh yeah, come hungry, as the portions are huge, but be ready to wait sometimes two hours or more.
Here's a few interesting things you should know about this place, all found in a review from Chef to the Stars found on the restaurant's website:
**There are no menus. What is served is decided each day by the owner based on what type of produce he can find. He boasts to have a very high standard, and will only serve the freshest of fresh.
**The restaurant is only equipped to seat 85 people at any one time.
**Sauces are prepared fresh and sauteed for each plate, not made in masses like most restaurants.
**No cheese will ever be served with any seafood. Martorano thinks it takes away from the taste of the dish.
**With that said, the customer is not always right. Martorano believes in the power of the chef. If you demand cheese for your linguine and clams, they will remove your plate at no charge.
Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33308
954-561-2554
www.cafemartorano.com
Ok, so this is the place to see and be seen. Even standing out front of this swaky Italian joint gives you the feel of being in some celebrity magazine, or at least watching one in motion. The front of the restaurant is lined with Bentley's, Rolls Royce's, Masaretti's, and any other extremely high end car you can think of. But it doesn't stop there. Inside you have a grouping of the most elite and wealthy people South Florida has to offer. Just to give you an example: Shaq, Al Pacino, and Dan Marino are patron saints of this joint.
The inside of the restaurant is like Soprano's meets well, Soprano's. And there is a reason for that as the owner Steve Martorano is actually "the" chef for Soprano's events. Each table is set back in little cove like places, so that you and your party get their own personal section to do whatever you want in privacy. Food is served family style, and your best bet is to let the chef choose you meal for you, as you will not be let down. If possible, get the Fried Calamari. This is hands down the best dish I have EVER had in a restaurant.
The only downside is that this night out will set you back quite a lot. Prepare to spend at least $100 per person for dinner and maybe a drink or two, and possibly more depending on what the menu for the night is. When we went, the bill was over $1200 for ten people with drinks, PLUS tip which at 18 percent is a whopping $214. Oh yeah, come hungry, as the portions are huge, but be ready to wait sometimes two hours or more.
Here's a few interesting things you should know about this place, all found in a review from Chef to the Stars found on the restaurant's website:
**There are no menus. What is served is decided each day by the owner based on what type of produce he can find. He boasts to have a very high standard, and will only serve the freshest of fresh.
**The restaurant is only equipped to seat 85 people at any one time.
**Sauces are prepared fresh and sauteed for each plate, not made in masses like most restaurants.
**No cheese will ever be served with any seafood. Martorano thinks it takes away from the taste of the dish.
**With that said, the customer is not always right. Martorano believes in the power of the chef. If you demand cheese for your linguine and clams, they will remove your plate at no charge.
The Briny Pub, a Place to Meet Locals
3440 E. Atlantic Blvd.
Pompano Beach, Fla. 33062
954-942-3159
If you are looking for a place to steer clear of Spring Breakers and meet some new locals, the Briny Irish Pub is definitely the place to go.
The bar inside this bar takes up probably 60 percent of the space in the room, which makes it a great place to get a drink when you want it, even in a busy crowd. The bartenders are quick on their feet, and the drinks come even quicker. Probably the best thing about this place are the prices, which will shock you when the bill comes. For the price of one round in one of the higher upscale places around town, you and a friend can drink all night if you want, and probably end up stumbling out. For this exact reason, I can't quote drink prices but trust me they are extremely reasonable.
Another great thing is that Wednesday through Sunday they feature live entertainment. Wednesdays boast an acoustic guitarist, Thursdays and Sundays feature a modern rock cover duet, and Fridays and Saturdays are gig-alicious, where a group of about ten cover bands rotate and rock the house.
Hours: Mon-Sun 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.
Hope to see you there.
Cheers
Pompano Beach, Fla. 33062
954-942-3159
If you are looking for a place to steer clear of Spring Breakers and meet some new locals, the Briny Irish Pub is definitely the place to go.
The bar inside this bar takes up probably 60 percent of the space in the room, which makes it a great place to get a drink when you want it, even in a busy crowd. The bartenders are quick on their feet, and the drinks come even quicker. Probably the best thing about this place are the prices, which will shock you when the bill comes. For the price of one round in one of the higher upscale places around town, you and a friend can drink all night if you want, and probably end up stumbling out. For this exact reason, I can't quote drink prices but trust me they are extremely reasonable.
Another great thing is that Wednesday through Sunday they feature live entertainment. Wednesdays boast an acoustic guitarist, Thursdays and Sundays feature a modern rock cover duet, and Fridays and Saturdays are gig-alicious, where a group of about ten cover bands rotate and rock the house.
Hours: Mon-Sun 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.
Hope to see you there.
Cheers
New Blog
Just letting anyone who signs in to read this blog, this is an update to a previous blog I was doing. Unfortunately the first one fell victim to my elementary computer skills and will no longer accept posts. To read anything previously posted, including some other great hotspots for you to try out visit www.outoftheboxentertainment.blogspot.com.
Cheers.
Cheers.
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