Pompano! Magazine, June 2023

“Austin,” Daniel Roemmelt, 24 x 36” BaCA’s Artists-in-Residence Final Exhibition

Exquisite custom-built home! Located one lot off the North Grand Canal. Upstairs and downstairs laundry, outside summer kitchen, Subzero and wolf appliances, stellar wine/cigar room with independent/separate cooling (Could double as large pantry) and elevator!

4841 NE 29th Ave, Lighthouse Point

3 Bed, 3 Bath, 80’WF, Pool, $1,799,999

3

Do you know someone in our area that is an All-Star?

Do you know someone in our area that is an All-Star?

Someone that helps others without recognition or contributes to the community?

Someone that helps others without recognition or contributes to the community?

Send your information to LHPAllstar@gmail.com

Send your information to LHPAllstar@gmail.com

Visions for Downtown Pompano

Two developers presented competing visions for a revitalized downtown Pompano Beach. Read about the plans and the developers here.

In the Tank

Take a peek inside the new Reef’s Edge shop selling incredible aquariums and learn about the young entrepreneur behind this new shop.

C S REALTY

18

Not

Pompano Picks

A potpourri of information

Pompano Peeps

Take a peek at some notable moments around town, including photos from the Seafood Festival, Adopt a Dune and more.

28

It

Social media has turned our columnist Dawne Richards into a young, beautiful British film star — not in a good way.

30

46

Relationships

Are you growing in your relationship?

Out to Eat

A comprehensive list of our area’s eateries. Plus, a peek at a new Mexican spot in Pompano.

56

Last Resort

A short trip to Charlottesville, Virginia

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TEXT

CONTRIBUTORS

Michelle Hays • Dawne Richards

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeff Graves

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Jay Petkov

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Pavel Mohajon

PUBLISHER

Richard Rosser

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Susan Rosser

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Call 954-299-5592

Chris Peskar chris@pompanomagazine.com 904-881-1573

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Lisa Spinelli lisa@pointpubs.com 954-818-0266

letters to the editor

Drop us a line and let us know what you’re thinking. Lighthouse Point magazine is all about community. Your ideas and comments are important to us. All letters to the editor may be edited for grammar and length. Send letters to:

Editor, Lighthouse Point magazine, 2436 N. Federal Hwy. #311, Lighthouse Point, FL 33064 or email editor@pointpubs.com

Photos by Debra Todd

Sizes 17’ to 27’

Models 15’ to 35’

Happy Father's Day!

Big

Coffee Walk

BY SUSAN ROSSER

Itypically take the summer off from writing my column, “Creatively Speaking.” But, in the interest of continuity, I will take a quasi-break this summer and write a more traditional editor’s column, which will not be as creative — hence, the title, “Not So Creatively Speaking.”

I have a friend from Manhattan who is not a fan of Florida. One of her main gripes, aside from the hair-ruining humidity, is the lack of walkability. According to her, the suburban strip mall is responsible for the deterioration of societal values and systems. Hyperbole anyone? Unfortunately, while the strip mall provides plenty of convenience for a car-loving culture, it is not conducive to a walkable neighborhood, nor is it much of a community builder.

When I was a kid, my small town on Long Island had a little main street in the center of town. It was about a mile from our house, and when I was old enough, I was allowed to walk into “the village” with my friends. The “village” was no thriving metropolis, yet we could certainly make an afternoon of it. We would grab a Slurpy at 7-Eleven, meander around the five and dime and then shop for Whacky Packs and Bubble Yum down the street at Weintraub’s — which seemed to sell everything. The appeal of strolling along an avenue where we can pop into shops, grab a coffee, a cocktail, or a bite to eat is self-evident. A few “downtowns” are left in South Florida from the pre-strip mall era (Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale and Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach). More recently, a few developed walkable communities have sprung up, such as Boca Raton’s Mizner Park.

And now, Pompano Beach has unveiled two developers with plans to create an actual downtown Pompano Beach. (See the feature story on page 32.) If all goes well, Downtown Pompano could be the walkable community of the future. This sort of lifestyle looks pretty appealing to me. To be honest, I could use a cappuccino right now, but I don’t own a cappuccino machine, and I don’t feel like driving to Starbucks. But if I could walk... Y

POMPANO PICKS

Old Town Untapped

WHERE: Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA), 41 NE First St., Pompano Beach

WHEN: Friday, June 2 | 6 – 10pm

COST: Free.

WHAT: Head to Old Town Pompano for a fun-filled Friday night. Patrons will enjoy live music from local bands and a DJ, art gallery openings at the Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, craft beer, food trucks, and vendors selling unique and artistic merchandise.

Bottomless Brunch

WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays

Summer Concert: Tina Turner & Beyonce Tribute

WHERE: E. Pat Larkins Civic Center, 520 NW Third St., Pompano Beach

WHEN: June 28 | 7 – 9pm

COST: $15/person

WHAT: The Ultimate Tina Turner Tribute. Sing along to all your favorite Tina Turner hits: Proud Mary, The Best, What’s Love Got To Do With It, and many more. Latraia Savage will have you shaking your tail feather and getting down as she entertains you with this energetic show.

Community Father’s Day Program 55+

WHEN: June 15 | 10am-12pm

WHERE: E. Pat Larkins Center, 520 NW Third St., Pompano Beach

COST: $10/person and can be purchased at the E. Pat Larkins Center prior to the event. This is a 55+ event.

WHAT: Enjoy a delightful Father’s Day brunch along with music and live entertainment!

WHERE: The Bite Eatery, 2715 East Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach,

COST: $25

WHAT: Enjoy a bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday with $25.00 all you can drink mimosa’s, bloody Mary’s and bellini’s. Tickets, only include alcoholic beverages.

Wellness Market

When: First Sunday of every month | 9am – 2pm

WHERE: Charlotte Burrie

Civic Center 2669 N Federal Highway Pompano Beach

WHAT: Stroll a free wellness market featuring local vendors and live music!

Painting Outside of the Box

a Paint and Sip Series

WHEN: Every fourth Thursday | 7 – 9pm

WHERE: Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA), 41 NE First St., Pompano Beach

COST: $25

Paint and sip events combine a professionally-led painting class, a high-energy environment, and a few drinks. The content of the classes will be various painting techniques and master copies taught by artist Gregory Dirr. Some demonstrations will require informative printouts to be distributed to the participants, such as info for a painting session on master copies.

Each ticket includes a free drink. BaCA will supply the paint, supplies, and smock. Participants don’t need to know anything about painting before showing up. The instructor will talk stu dents through everything they need to know, from how to mix paint colors to what sort of brush strokes to use.

Giant Lego Sculptures at Flamingo Gardens

WHEN: Through September 4 | 9:30am – 4pm

WHERE: Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S Flamingo Road, Davie

COST: $21.95/adult, $15.95/child (visit flamingogardens.org/exhibits for more ticket options)

WHAT: Featuring over 40 sculptures made from more than 800,000 LEGO® pieces, Sean Kenney’s Nature POP® exhibition explores the beauty of nature through contemporary, stylized, and colorful displays that stand in striking contrast to their surroundings.

Noir Arts - BLK Art Brunch 2023

WHEN: Saturday, June 17 | 12 – 5pm

WHERE: Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach

COST: $60

WHAT: Enjoy an afternoon of music, artwork by local Black artists, live performances, and much more. The event features exhibitions, vendors, music, and culture-based education programs.

Juneteenth marks a critical moment in American history, June 19, 1865, when the enslaved in Galveston, Texas, first learned of their freedom, two and a half years after the enactment of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Blues and Sweet Potato Pie Festival

WHEN: Saturday, June 17 12 – 5pm

WHERE: Apollo Park, 1580 NW Third Ave., Pompano Beach

COST: Free

WHAT: Celebrate Juneteenth and kick off the Library’s Summer Learning Program with the 22nd Annual Blues and Sweet Potato Pie Festival at Northwest Library at Apollo Park.

This day of free family fun, live entertainment, art and history includes performances, activities, exhibits and the legendary pie-tasting contest to crown the community’s best sweet potato pie maker. From children’s fun to great music and food, the Blues and Sweet Potato Pie Festival offers a good time for all ages. Festival highlights include: The Gary Palmer Band, Gospel Artists, Civil War re-enactors, Delt the DJ, storyteller Beverly Jones, Ashanti Cultural Arts Performers, dancing, hoola-hoop contest, multiple raffles and Delicious food vendors.

Spanx The Hog Comedy Night

WHERE: Spanx the Hog 147 South Cypress Road, Pompano Beach

WHEN: Mondays | 8pm

COST: Free (food and drink available for purchase)

WHAT: Watch some of the best comedians in South Florida work on their jokes in this fun relaxed environment! Spanx has a full bar and the kitchen is open late! The show is free but donations are encouraged.

CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL

SALUTES THE TOP TEN PERCENT OF THE CLASS OF 2023 AS THEY CONTINUE TO STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE!

Other college acceptances for the Class of 2023 include: Alabama State University, Auburn University, Barry University, Clemson University, Cornell University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida Atlantic University, Florida International University, Louisiana State University, Loyola University Chicago, Michigan State University, Nova Southeastern University, Ohio State University, Pennsylvania State University, Purdue University, St. Thomas University, Stetson University, Texas A & M University, The University of Alabama, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Miami, University of North Florida, University of Pittsburgh, University of South Florida, Virginia Tech

www.cghsfl.org | 2900 N.E. 47th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 | (954) 491-2900

Toula Petros University of Florida

Jenna Haupert Florida State University

Keira Raymond University of Florida

Kelly Hoover Florida State University

Alessandra Conard University of Florida

Emily Baldwin University of Florida

Fabiana Isasi Johns Hopkins University

Kali Putzig University of Florida

Isabella Hampel University of Florida

Sofia Rizzo University of Central Florida

Maria Uzcategui Rivas University of Florida

Emma deRochemont University of Florida

Brooke Higgins University of Florida

Andrea Stampone Gardner-Webb University

Hunter Anderson University of Florida

Kaitlyn Armbruster University of Michigan

Madisyn Moore University of Florida

Juliana Sirop University of Florida

Spencer Jones Florida State University

Dylan Clark University of Florida

Grace Tychesen Florida State University

Macy Berg Miami University

Arthur Antal University of Florida

Paul Lagerbloom University of Georgia

Ella Imperato University of Hawaii at Manoa

valedictorian co-salutatorian co-salutatorian

POMPANO PEEPS

Pompano Beach Seafood Festival

Pompano Beach Community Park

PHOTOS BY JEFF GRAVES

Sheron, Connie, Octaria, Blake, Lensly, Ayanna and Bihanca

Jim and Paul Ed, Wendi and Fred

Ilyse

Pompano Beach Searfood Festival

Pompano Beach Community Park

PHOTOS BY JEFF GRAVES

Frank, Patrica and Mia

T.J. and Troy

Jack and Kelly

John and Laura

Ari and Keith

Sharen, Mitchell, Mary, Robbie, Karin, Brain, Donna, Linda, Mitchell and Mike

Exchange Club

First Annual Spring Fest

Galuppi’s, Pompano Beach

PHOTOS BY JEFF GRAVES

Amila and Emma

Jennifer, Todd, Taylor , Romi and TJ

Alijah and Mom Darielle

Chairman Donn Atkins with Kemara, David, Elena, Skyanne, Demitry and Tatianna

Earl Maucker

Exchange Club

First Annual Spring Fest

Galuppi’s, Pompano Beach

PHOTOS BY JEFF GRAVES

Kristin

Randa and her dog Randi

Joe and his dog Tenny

Pompano Proud Adopt a Dune

Pompano Beach

PHOTOS BY JEFF GRAVES

Claudia and Kristen

Commissioner Andrea McGee

Claudia, Georgett, Margie, Jahshai, Sherry, Lee, Kristen and Andrea

Social Media Turned Me Into a Young, Beautiful, Film Star

BY DAWNE RICHARDS

Iused to spend too much time on Facebook. Now, I spend none because the Facebook Overlords believed that one night in April, I was in Hanoi, changing my password 24 times in 10 minutes.

I mean, they found it odd. They just didn’t stop it.

As of now, there are about four million Facebook users worldwide who’ve been “Lily Collinsed.”

Incidentally, Lily Collins is a BritishAmerican actress. Fun fact: her father is Phil Collins, the musician. She has over 28 million Instagram followers. I didn’t learn that on Facebook because I CAN’T LOG IN.

Lily Collins is now also four million (DID I SAY THAT ALREADY???) people on Facebook.

No, I’m not crazy. Really.

I’m one of the (to date) four million victims of the “The Lily Collins hack.” Once the hackers enter your account, you’re locked out, and they can use any stored payment methods you “entrusted” to Facebook. They use those payment methods to run ads either in your name or the name of any business pages you manage on Facebook because they now have full access to your business pages. The ads are usually inappropriate, and Facebook then suspends you (except it’s not you) for violating their “standards.”

They tried using two of my payment methods. Luckily, my bank declined to play along. I’d love to remove any other stored payment methods from my account, but I can’t because I’m not Lily.

Others aren’t as fortunate. Thousands of folks worldwide are out thousands of dollars and are locked out of their business accounts because the Facebook instructions for getting help make Joseph Heller’s “Catch-22” novel look like a clearly written instruction novel.

And, as they continue emailing me about changes to my account (presumably, they’re also emailing the hacker), they’re now addressing me as “Lily.” The icing on this cake is that the last email was written in Vietnamese.

Here’s FB’s “Help:”

FB: To report a problem with your account, login here.”

FB User: “I can’t log in.”

FB: “Enter your latest password.”

User: Enters the latest password.

FB: “Sorry, you changed your password.”

User: I DID NOT! THE HACKERS CHANGED IT, YOU DOLTS.

FB: “We’ll send an authentication code to your new email address.”

User: “THAT’S THE HACKER’S EMAIL ADDRESS.”

Sometimes, they respond with my personal favorite: “You entered that authentication code too quickly. Try again in a week.”

Note: The hackers entered four bazillion combinations of two-factor authentication numbers in seconds. That’s how they stole our accounts.

I understand that for the average personal Facebook user, we are the product. But for those running business pages, we’re their customer because we pay them to advertise.

FB: unimpressed, disengaged, and uninterested in solving this.

I’ve emailed every government official on earth and every available Facebook email address. But it’s fine. It’s fine. Really.

If you need me, I’ll be composing notes to send via carrier pigeon, assuming they’re not hackable. Y

BY MICHELLE HAYS

Are You Growing in Your Relationship?

Most likely, you’ve heard the quote, “Grow old with me; the best is yet to be.” The English poet Robert Browning wrote that in 1864. I have heard that quote many times, yet it has come to mean something very different to me through the years. We all know growing older isn’t exactly what it’s cracked up to be. Remember when we were kids and couldn’t wait to be “older?” Old enough to drive. Old enough to date. Old enough to drink. Old enough to make our own choices.

So here we are, “older,” with responsibilities, families, bills, work, chores, and obligations. Think about all those choices we have made so far. Did those choices create the life we wanted or hoped for? Hopefully, you can say yes! For some people growing older certainly didn’t turn out to be as much fun as they expected, particularly regarding their marriages. What about you? As you get older, is your marriage turning out to be what you had hoped for? Has growing older together become more fulfilling? Did I hear you say no? Did you say you are still waiting for the “best is yet to be” part of your marriage? Have you ever considered why that is? I have, and it’s not what you think.

I’ve learned that growing old together is not the part that makes us closer to our partners. Think about that for a moment. We all know that couple who have been married for what seems like forever, yet they don’t even seem to like each other. They seem to have accepted their unhappy lives as normal. Yet somehow take pride in themselves for sticking it out all those years. I want more than that, don’t you? Growing older together doesn’t magically create a more fulfilling relationship. It’s not the “time” we spend together.

How we grow together makes all the difference in our relationship. So, what exactly does growth in marriage look like? What do we have to do?

Growing requires vulnerability. It’s about learning to be comfortable with being uncomfortable so that you can effectively communicate your needs. It’s being willing to listen. It’s learning to seek understanding of each other when disagreements inevitably arise. It’s the choice to consider your partners’ needs and wants as essential as your own. It is accepting that all marriages have challenges. When you are growing together, you begin to understand and accept that there will be times when your partner might be selfish or

say something hurtful. You know there will be times when you may feel neglected or unloved. You realize there will be growing pains, but you know it will all be worth it!

Can you imagine having deeper feelings of love, trust, and connection? Imagine knowing you would be able to avoid or resolve most of your differences in a loving way. Imagine having a clearer understanding of one another. Imagine genuinely feeling loved. Imagine feeling more comfortable, happier, and more fulfilled in your marriage. Welcome to the Commitment Stage of marriage. The stage where you have become one. A team. No more resentment. No more power struggles. The “I don’t need you; I choose you stage.” The Commitment Stage.

Did you know that according to The Relationship Institute, less than 5% of couples reach the Commitment Stage? Most couples give up way, way before they ever have a chance to experience the true love and devotion they deeply desire. Isn’t that sad?

So today, consider asking yourself if you are willing to grow in your relationship to get to the commitment stage. Or would you rather just keep” hoping” something will change? Y

Discipline Equals Freedom

BY CRAIG HALEY

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy Seal, best-selling author, entrepreneur, and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt. Jocko is famous for his 4:30am daily wake-up. He posts a picture of his watch every morning and does his daily morning workout consisting of weight training, calisthenics, sprints, and more. He also trains in JiuJitsu every day in the afternoon. His mantra is, “Discipline Equals Freedom.” Jocko is currently 50 years old.

The word discipline is derived from the Latin word discplina, which means “instruction or training.” It is derived from the root word discere – “to learn.”

How does discipline equal freedom?

Most people wait around to get motivated before they do something. That may involve watching a video on YouTube, reading a book, talking to a friend, and more. They depend on something from the outside to spark the desire to do what needs to be done.

When a business philosopher and teacher, Jim Rohn, was teaching a seminar about success, a guy said he needed his boss to motivate him every morning. Jim Rohn smiled and asked, “What if he doesn’t show up? Jim said, “You have to have a better plan for your life than that.”

Discipline truly is freedom because you are the captain of your ship. You are in control of what you do and when you do it. You aren’t relying on anything external. When it’s time to work out, you do it. When it is time to work on the project, you do it. When it is time to spend time with the family, you do it.

In simple terms, discipline is doing what you are supposed to do whether you like it or not. Sounds simple and easy, but we all know otherwise.

Award-winning composer John Williams wrote the score for “Jaws,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” and many more films. When asked about his success, he said it came down to daily discipline. Every day he sits down and writes music whether he feels like it or not. He said sometimes I write great stuff, and other times it is terrible — but that doesn’t matter. What matters is writing every day led him to write the masterpieces that have defined his career.

What is the problem with motivation?

The problem with motivation is that it is temporary. You get fired up for a moment or a few days, but that wears off. If you are relying on that, you are stuck in the mud. Being disciplined means you take 100% responsibility for your life and take action necessary to succeed.

How can you be disciplined in your relationships?

Discipline plays a key role in the success or failure of relationships. Most people think relationships, such as marriage, are a 50/50 scenario. The thought process is I do my part, and you do yours. On the surface, that makes sense.

In reality, successful relationships are 100/0. You take 100% responsibility for the relationship and what happens. When your spouse is upset, please don’t ask what is wrong with them. Instead, ask yourself, “What did I do (or didn’t do) to cause them to be upset, angry, frustrated, etc.”

Taking this action is not easy to implement. However, it works. The commitment is to the relationship and the other person. You understand that you cannot control what someone else says or does but can control your response. You can choose to respond positively, proactively, and calmly. You can choose the disciplined path and check your ego at the door, so you can zero in on what you can do (focus on solutions) to improve the situation and learn

from it so it doesn’t happen again.

What do most people do? They react! They get angry, sad, emotional, or any slew of negative emotions. We have all been guilty of this before. I am not proud of it, but I am trying to learn and improve.

Let me be clear; I am not scoring straight A’s on all this stuff. I, like you, am a work in progress. I am constantly under construction and working towards the best version of myself. One thing I know for sure is that when I focus on taking disciplined action, my better version surfaces.

How should we discipline our children?

I also read that the word discipline comes from the root word “disciple,” which means “to teach.” When disciplining kids, our goal should be to teach a lesson, such as the right way to behave, follow the rules, etc. Adults should not discipline children out of anger or emotion. Is this easier said than done? Oh yeah!

We have to understand that there is no easy way to navigate life. There is only discipline. When we understand and stop fighting against it, life becomes more fun, and our results will go through the roof! Y

Master Shihan Craig Haley is the Seventh Degree Black Belt instructor at Elite Force Martial Arts, eliteforcemartialarts.com.

DEVELOPERS FOR BRAND NEW DOWNTOWN POMPANO UNVEIL COMPETING VISIONS

BY SAM ROSSER

The City of Pompano Beach unveiled two potential master developers for over 75 acres of property owned by the City and the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency at a public forum last week. The developers, Related Urban Development Group and RocaPoint Partners unveiled their competing plans for the parcels before a packed auditorium in the Pompano Beach Cultural Center.

Rendering of Downtown Pompano Beach from Related Urban Development Group’s proposal on May 3, 2023.

The presentations showcased their visions for a new downtown area that would fit snuggly between Atlantic and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevards. “Not many cities get to build a downtown from scratch,” said Nguyen Tran, Pompano Beach CRA Director, at the forum.

For more than three decades, the City has assembled parcels of land in what will become the new downtown. “This is truly a historic day for the City of Pompano Beach,” said Mayor Rex Hardin.

The plots range in size from .2 to 8.35 acres and do not all connect, making developing the land a creative challenge to which both firms have a solution.

In recent years, downtown development has been a background consideration for most major infrastructure initiatives in Pompano Beach. The City has invested heavily in infrastructure in the proposed area to allow for higher-density vertical development. “Infrastructure is a big, big part of being able to do vertical development,” said Albert Milo, Jr., President Related Urban Development Group

Both companies remarked on the impact of public funding from the City, which has enhanced the appeal of Pompano for private investments.

Negotiating teams from the City will meet with representatives from the competing firms in the coming months. They will determine which firm best fulfills several overlapping factors and make a recommendation.

At the forum, the tone of the public input sharply contrasted with the upbeat mood of the city commissioners, who were all present. Residents expressed concerns that their neighborhood would become unrecognizable and that there wouldn’t be a place for them in the future. However, Hardin declared that single-family housing in the surrounding neighborhoods is “sacrosanct.”

More opportunities for public input are planned, but not scheduled as of press time.

ABOVE Rendering of Downtown Pompano Beach from Related Urban Development Group’s presentation.

RIGHT Related Group’s plan includes three phases.

OPPOSITE Aerial view of Downtown Pompano Beach from RocaPoint’s presentation.

Rendering of Downtown Pompano Beach from RocaPoint’s presentation which includes a central water feature.

One of the state’s largest private real estate developers, the Related Group has been heavily involved in South Florida for decades. They are mainly known for their luxury apartment building expertise in South Florida; the firm currently has two beachside buildings in Pompano under development.

They have shifted into affordable and workforce housing in recent years and have built, rehabilitated or managed more than 25,000 units, according to their website. And in the Wynwood district in Miami, they saw an opportunity to develop sites that other companies did not envision, working with the City to turn a warehouse district into a vibrant neighborhood. “Arts and culture have a way of bolstering neighborhoods,” said Milo.

Related Urban Development Group has a plan for “placemaking,” said Jon Paul Perez, President of Related Group, the parent company of Related Urban Development Group. With a combination of public art, green spaces, trails, and walkability in mind, Related plans to mainly use the existing plots provided by the City and the CRA.

Related’s vision is divided into three phases, with each phase anticipated to last two years. The first phase centers around “activating” MLK Boulevard, aiming to generate foot traffic, strengthen businesses and foster a sense of community.

The second phase would revamp the civic facilities where City Hall and the Pompano Beach Cultural Center currently reside on Atlantic Boulevard. The third and final phase would develop the southwestern-most parcels of land into a mixed-use town center with commercial, office and residential uses.

Their vision would include 1,368 new housing units, 415,000 square feet of brand new office, civic and commercial spaces, a new hotel and more than six acres of new green space.

A much younger company with a small, yet impressive portfolio, RocaPoint Partners has shown they are capable of creating impressive and innovative developments that attract desirable tenants, both in terms of businesses and the young professionals that come with them.

Their notable projects include the Professional Golfer’s Association headquarters and Greenville County Square, a $1.1 billion property redevelopment in downtown Greenville, South Carolina.

Their vision for a new downtown in Pompano Beach resembles a more traditional approach to “activating” an area. The RocaPoint plan would rely heavily on land acquisitions, property swaps, new partnerships and other creative real estate techniques in order to assemble the land needed to execute their vision.

The main visual characteristic of their vision is a massive water feature that would run through the heart of the new downtown leading up to a brand new city hall. They estimate around 1 million cubic feet of stormwater storage will be necessary for the water feature.

In addition to moving city hall, RocaPoint proposes several multi-family buildings with abundant first-floor space for retail and restaurants. Their vision resembles Mizner Park in Boca Raton; a semi-enclosed retail and living space.

If their vision becomes a reality, RocaPoint plan to build more than 2,000 new multi-family housing units, 275 new hotel rooms, 230,000 square feet of civic space, and more than 685,000 square feet of retail and office space. Y

ABOVE Rendering of Downtown Pompano Beach from RocaPoint’s presentation which includes moving city hall.

IN THE TANK

Behind the Open Sign with Cody Stiffler of Reefs Edge Aquatics

After a career in cannabis software (yes, that’s a thing) Cody Stiffler changed lanes to open his aquatic dream store.

Cody Stiffler photographed at Reefs Edge Aquatics in Pompano Beach

When did you start this business?

We officially registered Reefs Edge Aquatics as a Florida LLC in October 2021. We broke ground in April 2022 and recently had our grand opening on April 22, 2023.

How did you start this business?

At first, I was looking to partner with an existing local aquarium shop, but that didn’t pan out. Once partnerships or purchasing an existing location wasn’t an option, the search for a prime location began. In 2014, I tried to pursue this venture and ran into complications. It just wasn’t the right time. I’m a firm believer in all things happening for a reason. Thankfully, this time around, I have the right support system and a partner that encourages and supports me unconditionally. It’s sort of surreal, actually. I still feel in shock that we’ve achieved such a fantastic brand.

What was your inspiration?

Ever since childhood, I’ve been fascinated with the sea — specifically coral reefs. I am a total nerd when it comes to that sort of thing. I love plants, animals, and nature.

What were you doing before running this business?

Before starting Reefs Edge Aquatics, I worked for a local software development firm specializing in solutions for the growing cannabis market. I was responsible for legislative relations and government contracting. I had the opportunity to travel throughout the world, advising legislative and regulatory bodies on proper medical and adult-use cannabis program management. It was a great company to work for, and I was extremely passionate about the industry. Unfortunately, another company acquired our firm, which destroyed the culture and forced many good people to resign or be terminated. As a

result, I was given more responsibility with limited resources and burned out pretty quickly. I believe business owners should value their employees and recognize that without them, nothing is possible. When employees don’t feel valued, productivity and quality go out the window, and the brand ultimately suffers.

In 2015, I enrolled in college and eventually obtained my bachelor’s in business administration, focusing on project management. I followed that up with a master’s in information systems management specializing in information security. After parting ways with the cannabis software firm, I tried the consulting route for about a year and even looked for a full-time position with another employer. For whatever reason, I was unsuccessful in finding anything, and my passion for the industry simply fizzled out. Feeling a bit defeated, I started looking at the prospect of opening an aquarium store again. Only this time around, I was in a very different place in my life. My partner and I discussed the possibility of opening an aquarium shop, and while hesitant, he supported my decision, and we began registering the company.

What makes you passionate about your business?

I’m a Broward County native. I was born in Plantation and attended high school at Marjory Stoneman Douglas. MSD STRONG! I grew up going to the beach, boating, fishing, and enjoying all South Florida has to offer. When I was about 11 years old, my uncle Jason took my brother and me to Red Reef Park in Boca Raton. He taught us how to use SCUBA equipment. I instantly fell in love.

What is the most challenging part of running this business?

Reducing waste and the use of plastics is the hardest part of this business. The amount of plastic used in this industry is a bit unsettling. To mitigate waste and plastic use, we offer discounts to customers who use their own containers or return rubber bands and plastic bags to our facility. I’ve contacted my connections in the Hemp industry to find a more sustainable solution for packaging and livestock transport. There must be a better way to do this.

What is the most rewarding part of running this business?

For me, it’s educating people on how they can create and maintain healthy aquariums. We focus on system automation, the latest in filtration and equipment, and what supplements and other natural methods are available to hobbyists when dealing with issues. We want to develop partnerships with organizations that protect our local coral reef habitats and fisheries. As a South Florida native of nearly forty years, I’ve witnessed the negative changes occurring within our local fisheries and coastal habitats. It’s not just frightening but pretty frustrating to see that there are calls to action when no real change is happening at the city, county, and state levels. More needs to be done to ensure our waterways stay clean and our residents have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and serenity that Florida offers. Thoughts and prayers only go so far.

How many employees do you have?

Currently, we have four staff members, including myself and my daughter. She’s a Freshman at FAU. Owl Pride!

What else should people know about your business?

Reefs Edge Aquatics is focused on automation, making it easier to maintain marine and freshwater aquaria. We have a great selection of fish, corals, inverts, supplements/additives, and equipment. The retail store is just the first part of my business plan. I plan to develop education programs for students and possibly get involved in propagating corals to aid in the conservation of coral reefs.

Do you have a mission statement?

Our mission is to educate and provide aquarium hobbyists with the essential tools to maintain a thriving ecosystem using sustainable and environmentally-friendly methods. Y

Reefs Edge is open Monday through Friday from 11:00am to 8:00pm and Saturdays from 12:00pm to 8:00pm. They are closed on Sundays.

OUT TO EAT

IN THE NORTH BROWARD BEACHES WITH MRS. KOSSENFLOFFER

Email us with any additions, closings, or corrections at editor@ pointpubs.com. We try to be accurate, but it’s always a good idea to call first before heading out on your dining adventure.

KEY

$ Inexpensive (under $20)

$$ Moderate ($21-$40)

$$$

Expensive ($41-$65)

$$$$ Pricey (over $65)

Pompano Beach

And Fish Kitchen + Bar. SEAFOOD Located at the Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa, diners will enjoy a modern take on fresh seafood. The restaurant sports a contemporary and breezy ambiance. 1200 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-782-0100 $$

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza. ITALIAN • PIZZA • WINGS You can credit this place with bringing the whole “coal-fired pizza craze” to South Florida. Try the cauliflower pizza — good and good for you. 1203 S. Federal Highway, 954-942-5550 $$

The Beach Grille. AMERICAN Delicious eats near the beach with the capability to order online. 3414 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-6000 $

Beach House. AMERICAN This is the perfect place to take out-of-town guests. Snag one of the stadium seating style booths overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy the casual and relaxed ambiance with a rooftop deck on the second floor. 270 N Pompano Beach Blvd. 954-607-6530 $$

Brew Fish. BAR AND GRILL Dine outside in the tiki hut overlooking a canal right in Pompano Beach. They have a comprehensive bar/pub-style menu. 200 E. McNab Rd., 954-440-3347 $$

Calypso Restaurant and Raw Bar. CARIBBEAN Since they opened their doors in 1990, Calypso has been a local favorite. This gem of a restaurant is known for its fresh, wild caught fish, Bahamian conch dishes, Jamaican jerk and American favorites all served with an island flair. Try the house special cutter (sandwich) — sautéed shrimp with garlic butter, mushrooms and cheddar all stuffed into a hollowed-out kaiser roll. For island comfort food, don’t miss one of their curries or rotis. Fresh oysters and clams are also available. Wash it all down with a draft beer, a glass of wine or choose from over 40 different bottled beers. 460 S. Cypress Road, 954-942-1633 $$

Checkers Old Munchen. GERMAN For a traditional German meal, try the wiener schnitzel — it’s divine — a lightly breaded veal cutlet sautéed in lemon butter and topped with homemade brown gravy. The spaetzle (German noodles) are a real homemade treat and not to be missed — throw a little of that brown gravy on them, and they could be a meal unto themselves. The red cabbage is both classically sweet and sour and there are other side options too including potato dumplings, potato salad and even hot potato salad. Imbibe to your heart’s content with their vast assortment of German beers. 2209 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-785-7565 $$

Chef Dee’s. SUSHI • SEAFOOD A small neighborhood place with plenty of charm. Impressive sushi rolls and a varied menu with something for everyone. 3919 N. Federal Highway., 954-582-4444 $$

Dangerous Minds Brewing Co., BREWERY • ARTISANAL PIZ-

ZA Dangerous Minds is more than just a brewery. This spot at Pompano Citi Centre offers artisanal pizzas made from scratch. Their specialty is a Scotch egg, a soft-boiled egg wrapped in homemade sausage and then fried until crispy on the outside. But back to the brewery — all the beers are brewed on-site, and owners Adam and Andre hale from Germany and England — two countries steeped in beer tradition. 1901 N Federal Highway, 954-657-8676 $-$$

Darrel & Oliver’s Cafe Maxx. INTERNATIONAL This restaurant is an anchor of the South Florida fine dining scene. 2601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-0606 $$$$

Deep Oceanfront Dining & Bar. AMERICAN Beach

front dining at the Beachcomber Resort — go for the view. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 1200 S. Ocean Blvd. 954-941-7830

$$$

Deccan Spice. INDIAN

Enjoy the contemporary decor and take your pick from classic dishes like chicken tikka and biryani and curry dishes to some Indo-Chinese twists like crunchy stir-fried noodles. There are plenty of vegetarian options on this menu and many variations on naan — Indian flatbread. 1149 S. Federal Highway, 954-366-1847 $$

Di Farina Pasta Factory & Restaurant. ITALIAN We all know that fresh-cut pasta is superior to the dried variety we have become accustomed to. But making pasta from scratch is a process. But what if you could just pick it up nearby or even have it delivered. Dreams do come true. Di Farina offers a variety of freshly made pasta to go. And if you can’t be bothered to make a sauce, they’ve got 19 from which to choose. The restaurant also has a full menu of Italian favorites. 1915 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-953-6771 $$

Flamingo Seafood. SEAFOOD Located in a remodeled gas station, this popular new eatery is a welcome addition to Pompano Beach. The menu features a raw bar and many small plates that are optimal for sharing. We tried four different kinds of oysters, which were all fresh and perfectly briny, with a considerable difference in size. The staff was helpful and knowledgeable about the menu and raw bar offerings. We also shared a few small plates, including a raw salmon dish, stuffed pepper dews and pork rillettes. Flamingo also features a full bar, contributing to the casual and lively atmosphere. 2798 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-960-2009 $$-$$$

Flanigan’s Seafood Bar & Grill. SEAFOOD • AMERICAN Enjoy a deal every day. 2500 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-943-3762 $$

The Foundry. AMERICAN • CONTINENTAL Seating options galore, from bar seating to lounge seating and old-fashioned casual dining seating — all with a contemporary Ameican menu. 2781 E. Atlantic Blvd., 754205-6977 $$

Galuppi’s. AMERICAN What could be more entertaining than watching golfers swing and blimps ascend as you sip a drink at an outdoor bar? 1103 N. Federal Highway, 954-785-0226 $-$$

Gianni’s Italian Restaurant. ITALIAN Gianni’s is practically a Pompano Beach landmark. Enjoy traditional Italian fare at this family-owned and operated establishment, serving everything from pasta to specialties like Chicken Gianni’s and fresh seafood. Don’t skip the romaine salad with the blue cheese. Pair your dish with a bottle of wine or cocktail from their full bar. They also offer daily lunch specials Monday – Friday. 1601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-942-1733 $$

Houston’s. AMERICAN Enjoy this contemporary eatery for lunch or dinner. An outdoor bar and seating on the Intracoastal are available. 2821 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-9499 $$$

J Mark’s. AMERICAN A relaxing, modern restaurant and bar with food and service to match. 1490 NE 23rd St., 954-782-7000 $$$

Kin Asian Street Food. ASIAN • SUSHI Enjoy everything from inventive takes on ramen soups with pork belly and a jammy egg to rice bowls and dumplings. We swooned over the shiitake buns, mushrooms with pickled sour mustard, ground peanuts and cilantro, all on a steamed rice bun. The gyoza was also a star — the dough was light and tender with a flavorful pork and vegetable filling. The restaurant has a comprehensive sushi menu, but this is a place to order outside your comfort zone. After all, isn’t sushi the new pizza? 143 SW Sixth St., 954-532-4567 $$

La Perla Di Pompano. ITALIAN This small and intimate Italian eatery offers a wide selection of Italian dishes, including four different risotto dishes alone. 420 N. Federal Highway, 754-222-9174 $$$-$$$$

La Veranda. ITALIAN The atmosphere is elegant, yet comfortable and warm. Inside or out, one can enjoy a special evening in the Tuscany-inspired surroundings. There is an extensive selection of pasta, entrées and traditional dishes, with new favorites to be discovered that the wait staff will happily explain. Taste the love in their homemade desserts. If you’re looking to celebrate, La Veranda is an excellent choice. Reservations are suggested. 2121 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-943-7390 $$$

Las Orquideas. COLOMBIAN For an authentic Colombian meal, you don’t need to go any further than Atlantic Boulevard. Not only can you find all of your Colombian favorites, but the restaurant has a full bar with fun cocktails. 900 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-772-7272 $$-$$$

Legends Tavern and Grille. AMERICAN Enjoy gastropub fare, including sandwiches, burgers, wings, salads and a huge choice of appetizers. 10 SW Sixth St. $-$$

Lucky Fish Beach Bar + Grill. AMERICAN It’s places like Lucky’s that make you happy you live in South Florida. This tiki bar by the sea (just south of the pier) offers simple eats, some top-notch people watching all with an ocean view. The menu includes classic snack foods like coconut shrimp and fish dip to tuna poke nachos. There are also salads, sandwiches and smash burgers. You can also order to go for a picnic on the beach. 222 N Pompano Beach Blvd. $

Miami Masala. INDIAN Enjoy classic Indian dishes and a few more modern ones with an Indian twist. While not being a classic Indian dish, the stuffed Hungarian peppers appetizer had all the flavors fans of the cuisine crave. Try the Indian crepe — crazy good. A daily lunch buffet includes traditional, vegetarian and vegan choices. 900 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-317-1371 $$

Mora Grill. MEDITERRANEAN This cozy yet modern spot is open for lunch and dinner. The menu includes a range of Mediterranean favorites, from kebobs to gyros. They offer lunch specials and family-style platters for six people served with appetizers, salads, kebobs, rice and vegetables. 3428 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-933-2003 $$

Nonna’s Bistro & Cafe. ARGENTINEAN • BAKERY • CAFE Some of Nonna’s offerings include pasta frola cake, American keto salad, and a charcuterie board for two. Carryout and delivery are available. 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-532-9920 $$

Oceanic. AMERICAN • SEAFOOD Along with stunning ocean views, the restaurant offers a comprehensive menu emphasizing seafood. If you are looking for a standout salad, the watermelon arugula salad with grilled

OUT TO EAT

shrimp is a perfect choice. The shrimp and grits were prepared traditionally and packed with flavor. The restaurant boasts dazzling architecture inspired by the great ocean liners of years past. 250 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., 954-366-3768 $$-$$$

Pho Lavie. VIETNAMESE If you have never had Vietnamese food, you are missing out. This spot will delight you. Everything is so fresh. Go and have some pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), you’ll thank us. 3321 N. Federal Highway, 954-941-4155 $$

Ruby’s by the Sea. ITALIAN Tucked away in a small strip mall near the Hillsboro inlet is Ruby’s, serving classic Italian fare. 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-785-7700 $$

Rusty Hook Tavern. AMERICAN Located on the Pompano Intracoastal, sit inside or outside; just keep in mind that the word tavern means a local place to gather around the table. 125 N. Riverside Drive, 954-941-2499 $$

Saito Japanese Steakhouse. JAPANESE This Japanese steakhouse offers a wide variety of entrees, including teriyaki dishes, tempura and sushi. Diners can choose to sit at the sushi bar, or they can enjoy hibachi-style dining. The restaurant has a comprehensive cocktail menu and 20 different kinds of martinis. 2101 N Federal Highway, Suite 208, 954-945-8888 $$

Sands Harbor Patio Restaurant. AMERICAN Located in the Sands Harbor Hotel and Marina on the Intracoastal, you can dine poolside or waterside; either way, you better know how to swim. 125 N. Riverside Drive, 954-942-9100 $$

Seaside Grill. SEAFOOD • AMERICAN Enjoy a view of the Atlantic while enjoying fresh seafood and an icy cold cocktail. Don’t worry if you’re not a fish lover — there are plenty of entrée choices from the land. Located at Lighthouse Cove Resort on the ocean. 1406 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-783-3193 $$

Shishka Lebanese Grill. MIDDLE EASTERN It’s not easy to make a good falafel, but the ones at Shishka are worth every calorie. There are plenty of other choices, too, from the classic hummus to baba-ghanouj to chicken and meat shawarma. 1901 N. Federal Highway, 954-943-2999 $$ South Bar & Kitchen. CONTEMPORARY SOUTHERN South Bar & Kitchen offers an array of Southern comfort foods with a heavy Louisiana influence. 165 NE First Ave., 954-890-2000 $$-$$$

Spanx the Hog BBQ. BARBECUE Spanx uses natural ingredients and offers dine in, take out, and custom catering. 147 S. Cypress Road. 954-590-8342 $

Sushi Lab. JAPANESE • AMERICAN Don’t be fooled by the name, Sushi Lab, offers plenty of options for the sushi averse. But if you are a fan, the restaurant has a plethora of rolls and sashimi. Plus the omakase experience where the chef chooses. Also, be sure to try one of the hand-crafted cocktails. 1350 N. Ocean Blvd., (inside the Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Pompano Beach/Oceanfront) 954-937-7366 $$-$$$

Table 2201. MEDITERRANEAN Everything at Table 2201 is made on the premises — even the desserts. Start with the pygros, a tower of eggplant, potatoes and ground beef topped with a cool yogurt sauce. 2201 E. Atlantic Blvd., 718-600-2236 $$

Umberto’s of Long Island. ITALIAN • PIZZA When a pizza is named Grandma’s Pizza — you must order it. And trust us, you won’t regret it. There is family tradition baked into every bite. But, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that Umberto’s offers all the Italian standards. 2780 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-784-7110 $$

Valentino’s Italian Cuisine. ITALIAN • PIZZA An abundance of Italian fare served for lunch or dinner. If you can’t make it over to dine in, fret not; they offer free delivery. 427 S. Federal Highway, 954-943-5387

$$

Yamu Thai. JAPANESE • THAI All your favorite sushi and Thai dishes 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-532-7901

Zoyuz by Talay Thai. SUSHI • JAPANESE BOWLS Zoyuz offers sushi and inventive ramen-inspired bowls. Plus, they have an innovative drink menu. 2515 E Atlantic Blvd. 954-951-6068 $$

Zuccarelli. ITALIAN • PIZZA This place is more than just a pizza joint. From eggplant Parmesan to shrimp fra diavolo, you will leave quite satisfied. The portions are generous and come with a house salad. Bring your breath mints because their garlic rolls are on point. 1340 N. Federal Highway, 954-941-1261 $

Lighthouse Point

Bonefish Mac’s Sports Grill. AMERICAN Bar food and a wide array of televised sports games with a game room for kids. 2002 E. Sample Road, 954-960-2477 $

Cap’s Place. SEAFOOD Lighthouse Point’s own hidden seafood joint dating back to prohibition. Take the short boat ride over to the restaurant. 2765 NE 28th Court, 954-941-0418 $$$

Fetta Republic. GREEK Traditional Greek offerings close to home. 2420 N. Federal Highway, 954-933-2394 $Fish Shack. SEAFOOD This restaurant used to be a “best-kept secret.” But now that they have moved into the Shoppes at Beacon Light, the word is out. The Fish Shack keeps it simple, serving fresh fish prepared in several ways. There is more to the menu, but it is called The Fish Shack. 2460 N. Federal Highway, 954-586-4105

El Jalapeño Feliz

105 SW Sixth St., Pompano Beach, 561-897-8580

Mexican food in American has come a long way since the days of tasteless tortillas filled with mysterious, yet bland, ingredients.

El Jalapeño Feliz in Pompano Beach serves authentic Mexican cuisine packed with fresh and tantalizing flavors and textures. One of their tacos is a long way from its bland counterpart

Le Bistro. CONTINENTAL Classically-trained chef Andy Trousdale serves up classics and inventive new dishes at this little neighborhood gem. Fresh and local produce is always used, and vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free menu items are available. A note to the wise; the porcini mushroom soup is worth every calorie. The restaurant also offers cooking classes and wine tasting dinners. More than worthy of a special occasion. Reservations are recommended. 4626 N. Federal Highway, 954-9469240 $$$

Legends Tavern and Grille. AMERICAN Enjoy gastropub fare, including sandwiches, burgers, wings, salads and a huge choice of appetizers. 3128 N. Federal Highway, 754-220-8932 $-$$

Lighthouse Thai Sushi. THAI • SUSHI This casual spot in the Shoppes of Beacon Light hits the spot when you seek a casual sushi or Thai dinner. The rolls are fresh, fun and tasty and the various Thai curries will leave you craving more. 2476 N Federal Highway, 954-532-6342 $$

The Nauti Dawg Marina Café. AMERICAN Nestled at the Lighthouse Point Marina, the Nauti Dawg is a local favorite. Start with the tuna wontons—crispy fried wonton wrappers topped with tuna tartare, seaweed salad, red pepper mayo, wasabi and a hit of sriracha. You can’t go wrong with the fresh fish sandwich—ask what the catch of the day is. They are a dog-friendly restaurant. 2830 NE 29th Ave. (at the Lighthouse Point Marina), 954-

While the fresh food is the real star, the Keys-inspired decor accounts for part of their charm. The menu goes beyond typical raw bar

We tried a few things on the menu (which is pretty vast) including chicken, beef and al pastor tacos, a burrito, homemade soup, beef gorditas which is a fried tortilla stuffed with your choice of filling plus pico de galla and cheese. We were floored by the size of the torta (sandwich) — which could either serve a family of four or a body builder. Along

torta packed an impressive flavor punch. View the menu online at eljalapenofeliz.com.

offerings with inventive tacos and sliders. Papa’s also offers an impressive array of sushi and sashimi. And to wash it all down, they have about a zillion craft beer options and a good wine list too. 4610 N. Federal Highway, 754-307-5034 $$-$$$

Rocca Trattoria. ITALIAN Rocco is a small and intimate neighborhood place serving classic Italian fare. The shrimp tempura appetizer, while not classically Italian, was light, crispy and a great starter to share. We were suitably impressed with the flavor bomb that is the veal chop valdostano. The veal is butterflied, pounded thin, stuffed with prosciutto, gorgonzola, and wild mushrooms and topped with a brandy Marsala sauce. If you want something a touch lighter, the grilled salmon was delicate and fresh and prepared with garlic, fresh herbs and a touch of lemon. The chicken franchise was perfectly cooked — the meat was moist and tender, and the coating was light — just enough to soak up the lemony goodness of the sauce. 2014 E Sample Road, 954-876-1733 $$

Deerfield Beach

Baja Cafe. MEXICAN Locals flock to this long-established favorite for a Mexican dinner or just drinks. They are known for their margaritas and entrées, including their bandito honey bean burritos and many taco options. 1310 S. Federal Highway, 954-596-1304 $$

Barracuda Seafood Bar & Grill. SEAFOOD • BRAZILIAN This spot by the sea serves seafood with a touch of Brazilian flare, such as the bobo de camarao — shrimp sautéed in coconut milk, saffron, palm oil and yucca cream baked in a cast-iron skillet. 123 NE 29th Ave., 954531-1290 $$

Casa Maya. MEXICAN Start with a margarita, and it only gets better from there. This is not your typical Mexican joint — it’s better. Try gobernador tacos: a combination of shrimp with diced poblanos, onions, tomatoes and cilantro on a crispy corn tortilla topped with melted cheese. 301 SE 15th Terrace, 954-570-6101 $$

Chanson at the Royal Blues Hotel. SEAFOOD • SEASONAL Chanson offers fine dining with an ocean view. 45 NE 21st Ave., 954-8572929. $$$$

Deer Creek Grille. AMERICAN Enjoy the club atmosphere with gorgeous views of the lush gardens and waterfall. The restaurant offers daily lunch and dinner specials, a Sunday breakfast buffet and covered patio dining so you can dine al fresco. 2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd., 954-421-5553 $$

JB’s on the Beach. SEAFOOD The restaurant boasts glorious beach views and a private glass room perfect for business or family affairs. 300 N. Ocean Way, 954-571-5220 $$$

Le Val de Loire Restaurant. FRENCH • STEAKHOUSE The menu at this cozy French bistro includes many classics. So next time you crave sole meunière, filet mignon au poivre or beef bourguignon, you don’t have to go further than the Cove. The steakhouse menu includes a New York strip and a rib eye, among other cuts. 1576 SE Third Court, 954-427-5354 $$$

Little Havana. CUBAN Little Havana has fantastic lunch specials, and most of their dinner plates will feed two. Their masas de puerco frita and their Little Havana steak are two of the standout menu items, aside from their zesty chimichurri. 721 N. Federal Highway, 954-427-6000 $$

Luigi di Roma. ITALIAN The atmosphere is always lively — mainly if you arrive during happy hour! Naturally, you will find all your favorite Italian dishes on the menu, with everything from eggplant Parmesan to shrimp scampi and everything in between. You can also order take-out online. 718 S. Federal Highway, 954-531-6151 $$-$$$

Ocean’s 234. SEAFOOD Amazing views of the beach and pier with gluten-free options are available. 234 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-428-2539 $$$

Patio Bar & Grill. CONTINENTAL Enjoy cocktails just feet from the sandy beaches of Deerfield. This relaxed spot at the Wyndham serves casual fare. You can stick to the classics like wings or a shrimp cocktail. Or be more adventurous and enjoy an order of volcano spring rolls stuffed with crab and served with sriracha mayo and wakame slaw. They also serve burgers and plenty of fresh salads and savory entrees. There is often live music contributing to the energetic vibe. 2096 NE Second St., (at the Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort) 954-596-8618 $$

Patrizio of NYC. ITALIAN At Patrizio, you will find all the classic Italian dishes we all love. The vibe is lively and the food is tasty. What more do you need? 1544 SE Third Court, 954-751-9797 $$

Taj. INDIAN This unassuming eatery in the Cove Shopping center has been quietly chugging along for years. The restaurant serves various Indian favorites, including tandoori breads, biryani, lamb specialties, and plenty of vegetarian options. The saag paneer, which is the Indian version of creamed spinach, goes well with anything on the menu. SE 15th Terrace, 954-427-0423 $$

Tijuana Taxi Co. MEXICAN Perhaps it’s the all-day happy hour (Mon.-Fri., 11am-7pm) with $6 El Jimador margaritas, but as soon as you enter, the day’s weight lifts off your shoulders. There is outdoor patio seating available and a large U-shaped bar inside. The portions are generous — certainly enough for a doggie bag. And for the little ones there is kids night on Sunday: kids eat for $1.99 from the $6.99 kids menu. 1015 S. Federal Highway, 954-708-2775 $$

Whales’ Rib. SEAFOOD Locals know it well, and tourists know it from “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” Whatever you do, don’t skip the whale fries. 2031 NE Second St., 954-421-8880 $$

FAST & CASUAL Pompano Beach

FAST & CASUAL

Anne Marie’s Pizza and Wine Co. PIZZA • ITALIAN Whether you are looking to grab a quick slice or enjoy a much-needed date night, Anne Marie’s fits the bill. Enjoy a cheesy slice of New York-style pizza, bruschetta or classic chicken Francese. 2313 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach 954-590-2100.

Bakery Fusion. CAFE • BAKERY This spot at Pompano Citi Centre is a handy spot to grab a coffee and a fresh-baked good. The menu also includes many different sandwiches, soups, salads and smoothies. You can also find fresh bread such as baguettes, ciabatta and other daily selections and a wide selection of coffee drinks, from cappuccino to an affogato 1901 N. Federal Highway (Pompano Citi Centre), 954-532-7383

Bella Monte Italian Deli. SANDWICHES 2688 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-0333

Brendans. BAR AND GRILL Burgers, wings and more — you get the picture. 868 N. Federal Highway, 954-786-0033

Big Louie’s. ITALIAN • PIZZA A South Florida chain offering classic Italian dishes. 2190 N. Federal Highway, 954-942-5510

Borogodo Brazilian Grill. BRAZILIAN Open for lunch Monday-Friday 11am-4:30pm; Saturday 11am-5:30pm. 7 SE 22nd Ave., 954782-8040

Broad Street Deli. BREAKFAST • DELICATESSEN Jewish-style deli sandwiches, subs, wraps, homemade soups, bagels, and homemade baked knishes. Open for breakfast and lunch Monday-Saturday, 8:30am4pm. 2657 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-816-9649

Cafe Brie. SANDWICHES • SALADS A little gem of a place that serves fantastic sandwiches, salads, quiche and desserts. 2765 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-532-7800

Cafe Sportivo. CAFE Cash only, but don’t let that stop you. They are family-owned and operated with a variety of espresso drinks. 2219 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-6672

Cannoli Kitchen. ITALIAN • PIZZA The Cannoli Kitchen has been a staple for fast-casual Italian fare in Boca Raton since 1996. Now, lucky for the folks in Pompano, they are open at a new Pompano Beach Fishing Village location. Try one of their many pasta dishes, calzones, subs, stromboli and other Italian classics like shrimp fra diabolo, chicken or veal marsala, and many more. 255 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., 954-737-3737

Carlucci’s Brick Oven Trattoria & Pizzeria. ITALIAN Italian favorites and brick oven pizza at the beach. Open lunch and dinner Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 12-10pm. 3420 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-3150

Chez Cafe. COFFEE • BAKERY A warm and cozy place to grab breakfast, lunch or a latte. 1631 S. Cypress Road, 954-933-3453

Dandee Donut Factory. BAKERY • PASTRIES From the classic old-fashioned sour cream to Boston cream, these babies are just begging to be dunked. Bagels, breakfast and lunch are also available. 1900 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-785-1461

Five Girls. DINER Check out this cozy, neighborhood joint. Five Girls offers all the classics you crave, including burgers, hand-cut fries and the owner’s favorite Philadelphia cheesesteaks. 2659 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954783-8889

La Rachetta at Whole Foods Market. PIZZA • WINE BAR Enjoy weekly deals with plenty of beers on tap and wines by the glass. Try the sweet southern swine pizza for something different — a light and crispy pizza topped with pork belly, arugula, and cheese. 2411 N. Federal Highway, 954-786-3535

Jet’s Pizza. PIZZA Try one of the specialty pizzas such as Philly cheese steak with Alfredo sauce or the BLT. 437 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-5387

Jukebox Diner. DINER Bright, classic seating, jukeboxes, and that old-school diner feel. 2773 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-960-5882

Lighthouse Cove Tiki Bar. AMERICAN Seaside eats and happy hours. 1406 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-784-2804

Little Italian. ITALIAN • PIZZA Little Italian Pizza is the best kind of Italian restaurant — the kind that feels like a hole-in-the-wall, but quickly grows vibrant as the large, steaming plates of homestyle Italian dishes come barreling out of the kitchen. The restaurant has a huge menu with stromboli, calzone, soups, salads, subs, 26 kinds of specialty pizzas, baked pasta dishes, chicken and veal entrées and traditional pasta dishes and desserts. 448 S. Cypress Road, 954-941-0550

Nelson’s Diner. DINER Nelson’s diner is a cute, hole-in-the-wall 50s diner with Elvis memorabilia on the walls, baseball flags on the ceiling, friendly servers and classic red vinyl booths. 438 S. Cypress Road, 954785-3646

Pascal & Cathy French. BAKERY • CAFE For fresh French baked goods, you can’t beat Pascal & Cathy. In fact, you can watch through a window as the croissants, eclairs and baguettes are prepared and baked right on the premises. The small shop also offers breakfast, sandwiches, salads, coffee and more. The croque monsieur was positively sinful and worth every calorie. 998 N Federal Highway, Suite 4-5, 954-756-1496

Rocket at Valentino’s. PIZZA This family-owned pizzeria is an excellent alternative to the big chains. Order an authentic Italian pizza and taste the love! 427 S. Federal Highway, 954-943-5387

The Bite Eatery. FOOD HALL This European style food hall is the per-

fect spot when your group can’t decide where to go. Whether it’s Mexican, deli, pizza, Italian, Cuban, lobster rolls, ceviche or burgers, you can find it at the Bite Eatery. Plus there is a full bar in the center. 2715 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-361-7702

The Chicken Box & More. SOUTHERN This small spot with just a couple of tables serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and does a robust take-out business. Have your fill of southern comfort food, including shrimp and grits with scrambled eggs, fried pork chops, classic potato salad, meatloaf and collard greens. 204 N. Flagler Avenue, 954-781-7400

The Poké Company. POKÉ Build your own bowl by choosing a base of rice or greens, then add a protein such as ahi tuna or steamed shrimp, then go to town with the mix-ins and sauces. If bowls aren’t your thing, you can build your own poké burrito. 1154 N. Federal Highway, 754-220-8933

The Rabbit Hole. VEGAN This small spot serves up elevated vegan comfort cuisine. If you are trying to eat less meat, but still crave chicken wings, The Rabbit Hole serves boneless and meatless chicken wings in a plethora of flavors. Other dishes include shrimp po’ boy sandwich, a southern barbecue platter, hot dogs, stir-fry and more. Remember, it’s all vegan. 2659 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-419-4899

Tortillería Mexicana. MEXICAN If you’re looking for a taco that goes beyond ground beef and toppings? Not only will they supply you with fresh, unique tacos, but the corn tortillas are made from scratch daily. Who does that? 1614 E. Sample Rd., 954-943-0057

BE IN THE KNOW

Lighthouse Point FAST & CASUAL

Burger Fi. BURGERS Everything at Burger Fi is cooked to order. Don’t miss the fries and the larger-than-life onion rings. The breakfast all-day burger is topped with a fried egg. 3150 N. Federal Highway, 954-933-7120

Jugo Boss. SMOOTHIES • WRAPS Take a break with cold pressed juices, acai bowls, wraps and sandwiches. The menu is all-natural. 2438 N. Federal Highway, 954-586-4037

Offerdahl’s. BAGELS • SANDWICHES • SALADS If you are in search of a decent bagel, this is the spot. But the menu goes far beyond bagels with tasty, inventive and healthy salads, satisfying sandwiches, and entrees. 2400 N Federal Highway, 954-788-3464

Packy’s Sports Pub. SPORTS BAR If you are looking for a local spot to watch the game, Packy’s always pack them in. 4480 N. Federal Highway, 954-657-8423

Red Fox Diner. DINER Treat yourself to one of the daily specials at the Red Fox and you just might be able to skip dinner. But if you are in the mood for some comforting diner food, Red Fox never disappoints. Breakfast and lunch are served daily. 2041 NE 36th St., (Sample Road) 954-783-7714

Snow Time. BOBA TEA This spot for treats features bubble tea (boba) in about a zillion flavors. If you are looking for something new, different and delicious, get some bubble tea. Other sweet treats are paper-thin shaven ice cream and authentic Asian snacks. 2482 N. Federal Highway in the Shoppes at Beacon Light, 954-597-6269

OUT TO EAT Deerfield Beach FAST & CASUAL

Biondo’s Pizza. PIZZA • SUBS Dine-in or take-out available. For something other than pizza, try the stromboli or the wings. 606 S. Federal Highway, 954-427-7754

Bob’s Pizza. PIZZA • ITALIAN Pizza served remarkably close to the beach — as if pizza could get any better. 2076 NE Second St., 954-4261030

Burger Craze. BURGERS Top-quality ingredients come together to create unique taste sensations. Enjoy juicy burgers, hot dogs, wings and more. 2096 NE Second St. (at the Wyndham Hotel), 954-596- 5949

Charm City. BURGERS From the moment they opened their doors, Charm City became a local favorite. If burgers aren’t your jam, fear not — they have plenty of options for non-carnivores. Try the emperor — an American Kobe beef patty with aged Swiss, truffled aioli and sautéed mushrooms — a burger fit for a king. And of course the fries are totally addictive. 1136 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-531-0300

El Jefe. MEXICAN For a genuinely inventive take on Mexican street food, this small yet bright and cheery taco joint is full of surprises. There is a plethora of proteins from which to choose. Pick one and have it in a taco, a bowl, a salad or even a burrito. The vegetarian salad is one of the best salads in town — perfect for a fulling but satisfying lunch. 27 N. Federal Highway, 954-246-5333

Fat Boyz. BARBECUE The folks at Fat Boyz have been serving up barbecue in South Florida for a while now, and lucky for the folks in Deerfield Beach, they opened a spot on E. Hillsboro Boulevard. We chomped down on some St. Louis style ribs which were satisfyingly smoky and tender. Plus, all the sides we tried were delicious. We’ll be back for more. 1200 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-415-4810

Gelateria. GELATO Gelateria offes more than 26 flavors of gelato. Take a stroll on the beach with a cone. Open daily. 2096 NE Second St. (at the Wyndham Hotel), 694-428-2850

Michael’s Pizzeria. PIZZA Closed Mondays 1645 SE Third Court, Deerfield Beach, 954-426-1515

Nick’s Pizza. PIZZA Nick’s family moved from the Bronx to Deerfield Beach years ago and opened Nick’s Pizza. The restaurant offers an extensive Italian catering menu, delivery and New York Style pizza. 137 NE Second Ave., 954-421-6700.

The Pickle Barrel. DELICATESSEN Get in touch with your inner New Yorker at this old-style deli, complete with friendly guys behind the counter filling your sandwich with enough pastrami to feed a family. 33 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-427-0650

Olympia Flame. DINER With a traditionally huge diner menu, you can’t go wrong at the Olympia Flame. For a real treat, try the turkey pot pie. The friendly staff makes you feel like a regular — even if you aren’t — but you should be. 80 S. Federal Highway, 954-480-8402

The Sticky Bun. DELI • BAKERY Everyone will find something to munch on, whether their flourless chocolate cake or a short rib panini with fontina cheese and pickled red onions… yum. We’re still dreaming about the BLT. 1619 SE Third Court, 754-212-5569

Tropical Grill Island Cuisine. CARIBBEAN Don’t be fooled by the counter service at this beachside eatery where the offerings range from escovitch snapper to shrimp curry. Grab a table outside for people watching. 241 N. Ocean Drive, 754-227-5055.

Umberto’s. PIZZA Family tradition baked into every bite. Try Grandma’s pizza, square pizza with fresh tomato and basil and, of course, mozzarella. 233 N. 21st Ave., 954-421-7200 Y

Southern Hospitality

The Clifton Inn Charlottesville, Virginia

Step back in time at the Clifton Inn, a boutique hotel on 100 acres in the Virginia countryside. The property is only minutes from downtown Charlottesville. Fun fact — Charlottesville has the most restaurants per capita of any American city. These people take dining out seriously, and the city boasts many fabulous dining options. The Alley Light is a local favorite. For a super fun day, hire a driver and visit some of the wineries in the area. Of course, there are plenty of surrounding historical sites to visit too. The Clifton Inn’s 1799 restaurant features a gorgeous veranda and patio with stunning views of Virginia’s rolling mountains. The menu features local ingredients, including some from the chef’s garden. And what would a hotel restaurant be without a list of creative cocktails? The wine list also features some of the best Virginian wines (you might be pleasantly surprised) and selections from around the world. Y