Gold Coast/Ft Lauderdale Magazine April 2019

Gold Coast

APRIL 2019 Vol. 54/Number 4 $3.95

A Gulfstream Media Group Publication

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THE PICKLES STAY

CHEFS PUT A STOP TO CUSTOMIZED ORDERS

THE ORGANIC PROMISE QUESTIONS FOR

RESTAURANTS THAT MAKE FARM-TO-TABLE CLAIMS

BEST NEW

RESTAURANTS

UP-AND-COMING EATERIES OF EVERY CUISINE

032019_MHB_JWB_Gold Coast FP AD_032019_MHB_JWB_Gold Coast FP AD 3/6/19 5:23 PM Page 1

Culinary Excellence

CHEF CARLO SERNAGLIA EXECUTIVE CONCEPT CHEF – JWB AUTHOR OF MARGARITAVILLE: THE COOKBOOK

A selection of 28 day wet-aged steaks, locally spear-caught fish engaging service and expert execution of every meal Experience Chef Carlo’s passion every night of the week

C o m p l i m e n t a r y Va l e t P a r k i n g 1111 North Ocean Drive • Hollywood, FL 33019 954.874.4470 • JWBRestaurant.com

201 E. PALMETTO PARK ROAD BOCA RATON, FLORIDA 33432 (561) 392-2449

3 OCEANFRONT SPACES TO CHOOSE FROM EXQUISITELY INSPIRED MENUS YOUR OWN PERSONAL EVENT PLANNER LARGE & SMALL SCALE PRIVATE EVENTS ON A1A JUST NORTH OF HILLSBORO BLVD., DIRECTLY ON THE OCEAN (954) 428-2539 | WWW.OCEANS234.COM EVENTS@OCEANS234.COM

AUDIO/VISUAL AVAILABLE Packages starting at $28 per guest

Your Relaxation Fanta-sea Y

To book your appointment, call 561-249-4215 or visit The SeagateSpa.com AT T H E S E AG AT E H OT E L & S PA 1000 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach 33483 | 561-249-4215

Seaside Renewal $402 | value $503 | 4 hours Aromatherapy Ocean Salt Scrub 25 minutes Hot Shell Massage 50 minutes Vitamin Sea Radiance Facial 50 minutes ESPA Advanced Foot Ritual Pedicure 80 minutes Complimentary Margarita* *Must be 21 or older to consume alcohol.

Prices do not include 20% gratuity.

State of Florida, Department of Health, Massage Establishment. License # MM 23691

Broward House is a not for profit social services organization with 30 years of providing care for those in our community impacted by HIV and other chronic illnesses.

Creating Safe Homes & Communities

HIV Prevention & Care

Improving Self-Sufficiency, Healing & Stability

HOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Cornerstone Tour Witness Care in Action and visit our facilities every 2nd Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m., or schedule a private tour.

1726 SE 3rd Ave, Ft. Laud, FL (954) 568-7373 x1210 https://browardhouse.org/get-involved/cornerstone-donors

Dining Out For Life On Thursday April 25th, 2019, Broward restaurants will donate a portion of their sales to our services. To find out how your restaurant can participate or to receive event updates call 954-568-7373 x1221 or e-mail dofl@browardhouse.org. https://browardhouse.org/get-involved/dining-out-for-life

@browardhouse 1726 SE 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

(954) 568-7373

www.BrowardHouse.org

SO MANY REASONS...

To believe the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce is driven to help your organization succeed!

REASON #703 Network with top business leaders at more than 200 events per year and maybe even catch our President and CEO, Dan Lindblade, on a scooter waving his way through one of them!

Need another reason to join?

Mention Gold Coast magazine when you call our membership team and we’ll treat you to complimentary breakfast or lunch! Call (954) 462-6000 for more details.

512 NE 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 • FTLChamber.com • info@FTLChamber.com

CONTENTS Vo l u m e 5 4 | I s s u e 4 | A p r i l 2 0 1 9

106 BEST NEW RESTAURANTS

From Mexican eats to caffeinated beverages, discover the best new restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, as voted on by readers.

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Saint Anthony Friends for Education Thursday April 11, 2019 6:00 PM Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina, Royal Palm Lawn

2019 Gentlemen’s Dinner

$195 – Gentlemen only please

Honoring Jim Murphy

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.gentsdinner.org or call Sharon at 954.467.9009.

Special thanks to the following sponsors:

An evening of exquisite food, fine wines and spirits, premium cigars and great camaraderie.

One of Fort Lauderdale’s most anticipated charity events, the Gentlemen’s Dinner is always well-attended by a spirited and diverse group of men from all over South Florida. This year promises to sell out quickly as we prepare to honor Fort Lauderdale community leader and Saint Anthony Catholic School supporter Jim Murphy.

CONTENTS

Vo l u m e 5 4 | I s s u e 4 | A p r i l 2 0 1 9

26 24

20

34 D E PA R T M E N T S

PROFILES

14 PUBLISHER’S LETTER

24 SHOP TALK

26 VIVACIOUS VENUES

34 NOMAD’S NOTEBOOK

30 CHANGE-MAKER

Words from Bernard McCormick

16 GUIDE TO APRIL

Where to find this season’s hottest events

20 BEAUTY

Joel Warren’s salon tailored to the future

22 STYLE FILE

Neon trends perfect for spring

Shop Brazilian bikinis galore at Cia. Marítima

Kick back at Bungalows Key Largo

112 TASTE

Enjoy land and sea offerings at DUNE at Auberge Beach in Fort Lauderdale

119 SCENE + HEARD

Were you at the hottest events this season?

127 SOCIAL CALENDAR

ON THE COVER

Must-attend events

Memphis Garrett talks opening five concepts inside The Dalmar

Named a Forbes 30 Under 30, Thomas D’Eri’s Rising Tide Car Wash business helps empower adults with autism.

49 TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT

Meet the South Florida chefs and owners who aren’t afraid to tell customers ‘no’ when it comes to modifications.

55 BOLD MOVES

Step out of comfort zones with dramatic ensembles.

F E AT U R E S 38 IS IT ORGANIC?

Debunking restaurant claims about organic offerings with advice from local chefs and farmers.

Photo of Del Frisco’s Grille

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Gold Coast

Fort LauderdalE BERNARD McCORMICK Publisher

MARK CORBETT Associate Publisher 954.462.4488, ext. 206 mcorbett@gulfstreammediagroup.com R. MICHAEL ROMANO Director of Operations EDI TORI A L ALYSSA MORLACCI Managing Editor MELISSA PUPPO Associate Editor KAYLA ZIADIE Web Editor GLORIA STUART Contributing Writer ERIC BARTON Contributing Writer CLARISSA BUCH Contributing Writer DES I GN CRAIG R. COTTRELL, J r . Art Director SUSAN DORTA Graphic Artist PH OTOGRA P H Y AUSTEN AMACKER Contributing Photographer ALESSANDRA FIORINI Contributing Photographer

YEARS

PROD U CT I O N KALEIGH LIPKA Production Manager

On Las Olas

915 Eas t Las Olas Blvd | 95 4. 4 63. 3711 | CarrollsJewelers .com

ASS OCI AT E PU BL I S H ER/ H O M E & D E S IG N SHERRY GOODMAN-ASH S ENI OR ACCOU NT M A N AG E R CYNDI HOCHBERG ADV ERT I S I NG ACCOU N T M A N AG E R S DAVID BERGSTEIN • KIM CAPEN DONNA LEWIS • TANYA LORIGAN NICOLE RUTH • LAURA ZELE

Tuesday, April 30, 2019 • 7:45 pm

DI ST RI BU T I O N RICARDO MARTE Distribution Manager AD MI NI ST RAT IO N PATTY BECK Controller ANA LUCÍA CORONEL Business Manager BOARD OF D I RE C TO R S ROBERT F. McCABE, Chairman • GREGG SCHLESINGER, Esq. • BERNARD McCORMICK MARK McCORMICK FortLauderdaleDaily.com

For CIRCULATION INQUIRIES, please contact us at: circulation@gulfstreammediagroup.com

Classics Reborn

Gold Coast magazine (Volume 54, Number 4) and Fort Lauderdale (Volume 54, Number 4) are published monthly, except in June, August and September, for $24 per year by Gulfstream Media Group, Inc., 1401 E. Broward Blvd., Ste. 206, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. Standard postage paid at South Florida and additional offices. USPS #021-652. POSTMASTER, send address changes to: 1401 E. Broward Blvd., Ste. 206, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. For general and advertising inquiries, call 800.831.5479.

Glenn Dicterow, violin • Karen Dreyfus, viola Sponsored by Lesleen Bolt & Stephen A. Keller (in memoriam) 7:00 PM Pre-Concert Talk & Wine Tasting with Lyn Farmer, Director, Veritage Miami

www.BrowardCenter.org 954-462-0222

info@sota.org • 954-335-7002 SOTA_GoldCoast-Apr2019_4.612x4.875.indd 1 APRIL 2019 12

Copyright 2019, Gulfstream Media Group. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without the written permission of Gulfstream Media Group. Neither the publishers nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publishers accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers. Ads in this publication are not intended as an offer where prohibited by state laws.

1/25/19 1:59 PM

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TONE

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P U B L I S H E R ’ S

L E T T E R

OUR LATEST NON-INVENTION BERNARD McCORMICK

I

n the past this magazine has shamelessly claimed to have invented the popular “Who’s Who In Charity and the Arts.” The concept is a natural, for it attracts advertisers from leading high-end institutions that like to be identified with the social and cultural leadership of the community. It goes back to the late 1980s when our late associate publisher, John Broderick, came up with the idea for another magazine that was struggling to survive. That book went under anyway, but Broderick, a friend since our first days in town, brought the idea to our company, which had reorganized after a long legal battle. It was the basis for our strong comeback in the 1990s. It also caught the interest of other regional magazines, who one by one have copied the concept. Today, even the largest and oldest city magazines run similar features on philanthropy at least once a year.

This month we introduce another popular feature, which we shamelessly can’t claim to have invented. Indeed, it has appeared in a number of other magazines, usually with obvious success. “Faces of Fort Lauderdale” (page 65) is an advertising section, featuring leaders in a number of business and cultural fields. There is an element of editorial selection involved, however, in that we approached known leaders in their fields, giving them first dibs at being included in their respective categories.

The appeal is similar to our annual “Top Docs” section (coming up next month), which we also shamelessly did not invent. The difference is that the Top Docs lists are selected by a national organization that is independent from our magazine, but it also attracts medical advertisers who value the association with the best in their fields.

This is also our annual Foodie issue, and is dominated by three of Eric Barton’s pieces on quite different people prominent in the restaurant business.

Barton is one of those writers to whom we say “yes” to any idea he has, whether it be an intimate look at truck stops or an up-close profile of wild monkeys on the edge of Fort Lauderdale. He is an ideas machine and has won the magazine several nice awards in recent

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years. Foremost among his journalistic gifts is an unusual ear for revealing quotes, displayed in all of his stories in this issue.

F

oodie issues almost always feature what’s new, but this month, we add a small reflection of what is, or was, very old. Stratford’s Bar, just off Interstate 95 at Sheridan Street in Hollywood, was around for 81 years, and the announcement that it was closing made the papers.

It was a classic neighborhood hangout, and we got to know it during a brief term as a columnist for the Hollywood Sun (formerly Sun-Tattler) in the late 1980s. The place was favored by Miami Dolphins players during the glory years of the 1970s, and its regulars included an eclectic group of cops, politicos and legal types. Owner Guy Roper, grandson of the founder and a Hollywood commissioner at the time, was as down to earth as the bar he owned. One day we wanted to talk to him about something. Most politicians are wary of press calls; some even have PR people sound you out in advance, but personable Guy promptly returned the call and said, “C’mon down to the bar and we’ll b.s.”

A major part of Stratford’s décor were shelves of football dolls painted in the colors of pro and college teams. One of the bartenders painted the dolls and we had one done in Notre Dame’s classic colors. It was for our son—at ND at the time. Later the doll was in our office when we had a small fire, which sooted up everything. Our doll had been a ND Heisman winner Paul Hornung, with Hornung’s No. 5. After the fire his complexion changed a bit.

It still reposes in our office, a memory of good times

that are no more.

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Symphony Waterways Fort Lauderdale at the Assisted Living & Memory Care

Senior Living with a Water View Symphony at the Waterways is Fort Lauderdale’s newest Supportive Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care Community and the only residence of its kind to be located directly on the Intracoastal Waterway. But location is not the only thing that sets us apart.

Symphony at the Waterways offers luxury amenities– like our Intracoastal and ocean view restaurant, bar and lounge–that provide you with a lifestyle far and above your greatest expectations.

Please join us for a

Lunch & Learn April 18th at 11:00 am April 25th at 11:00 am RSVP: 754.212.1870 Choose your date! Space is Limited.

Learn more at SymphonyWaterways.com

T H E

G U I D E

T O. . .

April

What to do, see and lust over this season

Genie Appel-Cohen, Walk With Me

1

ART & SOUL

Business for the Arts of Broward is hosting its fifth annual Art & Soul event at the CIRC Hotel on April 11.

Guests will be treated to live music, gourmet food and interactive art with collectible artwork also available for purchase. ($50/ advance, $60/at door; bfabroward.org)

2

VEGFEST

Learn all about plant-based foods during Boca Raton’s rendition of VegFest taking place at Mizner Park Amphitheater on April 27. Browse vendors selling yoga apparel, tea, essential oils, jewelry and skin care. (free; pbvegfest.com)

4

TORTUGA MUSIC FESTIVAL Edgar Winter

Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival returns to Fort Lauderdale beach April 12 to 14. This year’s lineup will feature performers including Kenny Chesney, Thomas Rhett, Maren Morris, Jason Aldean and Elle King. (Ticket prices vary; tortugamusicfestival.com)

5 3

BEATLES ON THE BEACH

Get ready for a lineup of world-class music in Delray Beach during the International Beatles on the Beach Festival taking place from April 25 to 28. Catch performances by The Edgar Winter Band and McCartney Mania, among others, at Old School Square Pavilion. (Ticket prices vary; beatlesonthebeach.com)

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THE SYMPHONIA

Head to the Crest Theatre at Old School Square for a performance by South Florida’s world-class chamber orchestra, The Symphonia. The April 1 concert titled “Danzon Symphonia” will feature Grammy-nominated conductor Alastair Willis and Lidia Kaminska as the bandoneon soloist with pieces by Shostakovich, Goilijov, Piazzolla and Weil. (Tickets from $59; thesymphonia.org)

6

DELRAY AFFAIR

Delray Beach’s oldest and largest art fair, Delray Affair, returns April 12 to 14, taking place across 12 city blocks from the Intracoastal Waterway to NW Second Avenue. Browse an eclectic mix of fine arts and crafts from national and international artists during the two-day event. (free; delrayaffair.com)

Photo by The Blue Wild

7

THE BLUE WILD OCEAN ADVENTURE EXPO

South Florida’s premier water sports expo will make a splash on April 27 and 28 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center. The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo will offer 65,000 square feet for more than 150 exhibitors specializing in fishing, scuba, paddleboarding, boats, kayaks and more. ($20; thebluewild.com)

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The Place for Kitchens and Baths WHERE DESIGN, FUNCTION & QUALITY COME TOGETHER

All photos courtesy of IBI Designs

The Place for Kitchens and Baths offers eco-friendly products that qualify for LEED certification. THE GREEN kitchen of your dreams is within your reach. We can also design for clients who keep kosher. Turnkey Remodeling Available.

Come Visit Our Showroom 285 SE Mizner Boulevard | Royal Palm Place | Suite 43 | Boca Raton, Florida | T 561.338.7171 | F 561.338.8788 Appointments required Servicing the continental U.S. & Caribbean

Explore Our Portfolio at www.theplaceforkitchensandbaths.com

C L I C K / O N

T H E

W E B

Gold Coast’s

Top Spots To Grab A Margarita In South Florida Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or not, you can never go wrong with a margarita; and Fort Lauderdale has some of the best around.

At El Camino, pair the Mexican eatery’s beloved tacos with one of its famous margs. Step out of your comfort zone with the Cactus Margarita, made with blanco tequila, cactus shrub, fresh lime and cardamom.

For a walk on the safe side, stick with a twist on the tried-and-true Tequila Sunrise, made with blanco tequila, orange, lime and hibiscus-habanero cordial.

At Brimstone Woodfire Grill, the tartness of the Grapefruit Smash (Finlandia grapefruit vodka, fresh lime and basil) pairs great with the restaurant’s delicious steak. The Mango Sol (Herradura silver tequila, mango-habanero puree, agave, peach schnapps and lime juice) and a juicy Brimstone burger is another perfect duo.

Read more about the best places to grab a margarita in South Florida at fortlauderdaledaily.com.

Photo courtesy of Concierge Auctions

5

FOODIE UPDATES

1

AND Fish Kitchen + Bar South Florida’s newest seafood eatery has officially opened at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa. Menu items include grilled octopus and island seafood stew in a Thai curry broth over coconut rice.

2

Fresh Kitchen The restaurant has opened its second South Florida location in Davie. The quick-service spot is a fresh and gluten-free, build-your-own-bowl concept restaurant.

Guests can choose from seasonal ingredients and vegan options.

3

Havana Nights Indulge in an all-you-caneat Cuban pig roast buffet, fresh sangria, craft beers and “kalimotxos,” and roll Cuban cigars at Colada Cuban Café’s “Havana Nights” event on April 12.

WAYNE HUIZENGA’S FORT LAUDERDALE ESTATE The 20,623-square-foot Fort Lauderdale estate belonging to late businessman Wayne Huizenga was at press time to be auctioned off starting at $27 million.

The estate’s amenities include a resort-style pool, gym, workshop, billiards room, theater, multiple safe rooms and a kitchen with a wood-burning pizza oven.

Learn more at fortlauderdaledaily.com.

4

Brunch at Yard House The restaurant known for the world’s largest draft beer selection has launched a weekend brunch menu with modern twists on brunch classics and a bottomless drink package with an entrée.

Photo courtesy of The Balcony

Photo courtesy of Bokamper’s

FortLauderdaleDaily.com

5

Bo’s Beach The new two-story, waterfront restaurant and bar is operated by former Miami Dolphins player Kim Bokamper. It offers tropical ocean views, an array of cocktails and locally sourced seafood made in a signature wood-fired oven.

Best New Restaurants We asked, you voted! Discover the Best New Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale in this issue.

We had nearly 500 voters visit fortlauderdaledaily.com to cast their votes in categories from best new Asian restaurant to best new bar.

INSTAWORTHY @goldcoastmag

Don’t miss our next call-out for your opinion by following our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts for new contest announcements.

976 feet into a moonlit ocean - James Dix (@sublime.imagery)

Sunday fuel - Rose’s Coffee Bar (@rosescoffeebar)

FOLLOW US

Playing peek a boo - Marc Klein (@bigdudewhotakespictures)

For a chance to be featured on Instaworthy, tag us at @goldcoastmag.

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B E A U T Y

Designing a Salon for the Future Joel Warren on revolutionizing the salon concept inside the doors of Saks Fifth Avenue

By Melissa Puppo

C

elebrity hair stylist Joel Warren is clad in a red bandana that’s tucked into the collar of a black shirt below his signature feathered fedora, and he’s discussing how I should style my hair. The New York native explains his vision on cut and color to make me look like the best version of myself inside his latest venture: The Salon Project by Joel Warren.

In the back room done up with blue and green palm-print wallpaper, guests receive treatments like waxes and facials. In the front is the ultra-modern salon that Warren helped design as part of his new concept inside Saks Fifth Avenue with locations dotting the U.S., including right here in South Florida at Town Center at Boca Raton. He’s creating a salon experience for the future, including services from cut and color, to eyelash extensions, makeup, microblading, manicures and more.

“This salon in Boca really kind of is how a salon should work,” Warren says. “I have hairdressers here that are master hairdressers.

My goal is to allow hairdressers to expand their repertoires.”

He’s also straying far from the almost robotic flow salons have taken on. “In most typical salons, you check in at the front desk, you go to a color department, you go to a cutting department and you’re constantly being moved around,” Warren says. He explains further: “And when you leave, even if you want to buy products, you have to go to the front desk.” He relieves the hassle by letting clients get everything done right at the chair with their stylist. The addition of an iPad at each station provides the option to purchase products with a touch of a button.

Boca’s location marks Warren’s third Salon Project opening with plans to open two more inside the flagship Saks Fifth Avenue store in New York City before the end of April, and an additional nine throughout the country.

Why is a hairstyle important?

I always feel like hair is your most important accessory.

It’s one you really have to live with and then it’s one you have to manage. Learning how to manage is why it becomes so important. Your hair also takes time and technique to do it.

On top of that, you need to see professionals to help guide you, so it’s more complex than anything else on your body.

Let’s talk trends.

Every one has a different layout, and I kind of like to decorate them for the town it’s in. So when I did this one, I did it with a lot of flare for Florida. You see the pink and the tangerine and the greens and the blues. It’s very Florida, especially Boca, which I love Boca by the way.

My trend is always to look your best. Everybody is different. Some people don’t want to stand out. Some people just want to be comfortable. There’s form, there’s function.

Some people want the greatest form of all, some people just want to function well. It’s all about having the ability to figure out what that person wants and try to make it the best they can.

What’s your day-to-day like?

What’s most important with a color treatment?

Tell us about the salon openings inside of Saks.

I am so crazy these days. Today I showed up and five of my clients showed up because they knew I was here. You’ll find me behind the chair, having fun—I love it because I have the freedom to do anything. It’s my place; I can do whatever I want. I cut hair, I can color hair, so I can really orchestrate what I want done even though I’m not doing everything.

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It’s really about being able to figure out how to lighten up the base color of people’s hair and do highlights. What happens also is that people try to cut corners and save money and end up in positions they don’t want to be in and they don’t look that great.

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100 Feet Of Waterfront | Las Olas Isles | $3,250,000

100 Feet Of Waterfront | Las Olas Isles | $4,950,000

2-Story Foyer, Lavish Master Suite, 5BR, 5.2BA, 2-CG, Pool

Luxurious Smart House, Home Theatre, Elevator, 6BR, 7.2BA, 3-CG, Pool/Spa

Contemporary Waterfront | Las Olas Isles | $1,249,500

AQUABLU | Intracostal Views | Starting at $1,295,000

Bright Corner Unit, 3 Balconies, Dockage Included, 3BR, 2.1BA, 2-CG

Spectacular Ocean Views, 5-Star Amenities, Private Elevator, 2BR, 2BA, 2-CG

75 Feet Of Waterfront | Rio Vista Isles | $2,050,000

Lush Tropical Oasis | Colee Hammock | $1,595,000

Ideal For Boating, Intracoastal Views, Open Floor Plan, 5BR, 5BA, 2-CG, Pool

Walk To Shops, Restaurants & Beach, Open Floor Plan, Pool, 4BR, 3.1BA, 2-CG

Peter Barkin RealtorÂŽ 954.675.6656 Mark Gilman Broker-Associate 954.557.8777 Specializing in E. Fort Lauderdale Luxury Properties 1200 E. Las Olas Blvd,, Ste. #103 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

BarkinGilman.com

Compass Florida, LLC is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

S T Y L E

F I L E

DOONEY & BOURKE saffiano domed satchel; $298; available at dooney.com

LAFAYETTE 148 NY glazed weightless lambskin galicia jacket; $1,198; available at lafayette148ny.com

ALISON LOU jelly set of three lucite and enamel cuffs; $265; available at netaporter.com

ALICE + OLIVIA BY STACEY BENDET paulette high waist neon pant; $295; available at aliceandolivia.com RANJANA KHAN passerine earrings; $500; available at ranjanakhan.com

DO THE BRIGHT THING

SENSI STUDIO medium polka dot frayed tote bag; $112; available at sensistudio.com

Shake up your spring wardrobe with a pop of neon

By Melissa Puppo

LOUIS VUITTON neon yellow damier infini porte-documents jour; $2,350; available at whatgoesaroundnyc.com

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APRIL 2019

MARA HOFFMAN harlow ribbed cotton midi dress; $526; available at matchesfashion.com

LE SPECS the prowler cat-eye acetate sunglasses; $80; available at matchesfashion.com

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Sandra Tagliamonte Broker-Vice President

954.818.4219

stagliamonte@onesothebysrealty.com

1601 SE 8 ST.

This 6 bedroom and 6.1 bath home has 300 feet of water frontage. Point lot with wide water views. State-of-theart technology. Fabulous finishes throughout. Gourmet kitchen, media room, office with fireplace. Beautiful master suite. Covered loggias and balconies over the pool area. Summer kitchen. Home generator and so much more! Offered at $6,900,000.

41 COMPASS LANE

Exclusive Bay Colony with 24 hour security. This 4 bedroom and 5.5 bath is a great family home with high ceilings. Gourmet kitchen, summer kitchen and 2 gas fire places with 140 ft. of water frontage. If you like to entertain, you will love the pool and spa and all of the beautiful landscaping. 3-car garage. Very quiet street.

Offered at $3,599,999.

333 LAS OLAS WAY #510

Park Tower suite, 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths with 4 terraces. Located on the New River. This has been decorated with all of the finest features. Live in the heart of downtown. Valet concierge, fitness center and so much more. Offered at $1,995,000.

3315 NE 37TH ST.

This 4 bedroom & 3 bath home is located in Bermuda Riviera. Beautiful kitchen, split floor plan marble throughout.

Great home for entertaining, 80 ft. on the water, nice fenced backyard, pool & 2 car garage. Located in the Bayview School District. Offered at $1,250,000.

415 SEVEN ISLES DRIVE

This 5 bedroom and 5.1 bath is 4895 sq. ft. and has a wonderful floor plan. Great home for entertaining.

Located on seven isles with security. Oversized master suite and large walk-in closets, private dining area and high ceiling throughout. Wood burning fire place. Newer A/C, central vacuum, elevator, heated pool, large backyard and 80 ft. on water. 3 car garage, Offered at $2,699,900.

400 HENDRICKS UNIT #205

This 3.3.1 is over 2600 sq. ft. Walk into your private foyer.

This property has been totally gutted, & updated with only the finest appointments. Open gourmet kitchen with bar area & large wine cooler. The kitchen has lots of counter space. Porcelain wood style floors. Beautiful fixtures throughout. Large master bedroom with many closets. Private balcony, assigned dock for up to a 50 ft. boat. Covered parking. Offered at $1,450,000.

2610 YACHT CLUB DRIVE

Your private oasis, 3/3 updated throughout kitchen and baths, new flooring in bedrooms. Tank-less water heater, 2 zones of A/C less than 6 months old. Fabulous private backyard with outside covered bar. Large utility room.

2 master suites. 1 car garage. Beautifully landscaped throughout. Fenced in for privacy. Offered at $859,900.

401 East Las Olas Blvd. • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

191 SEVEN ISLES DRIVE

Renovated interior point lot home. 226’ deep water frontage, able to accommodate 2 yachts & equipped with a boat lift, pool, outdoor bar & spa. 5 bedrooms, updated kitchen with Poggenpohl cabinetry, stainless steel built-in Miele coffee system with a gas range & eat-in kitchen. Large formal separate dining area, fireplace & 3 car garage. Offered at $3,499,999.

51 COMPASS ISLAND

16,000 sq. ft. lot with 115 ft. of water frontage. Renovate or build. This home has a great floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 4 and half baths, plus office. 24 hour security, bay colony is a private gated community. Located 5 minutes to Pine Crest, Westminster and other great schools. Walking distance to the ocean. Offered at $2,380,000.

2765 NE 14 ST. #PH-1

When only the best will do! Fabulous penthouse apartment 3.3.1 with wraparound balcony. Gourmet open kitchen with granite and stainless steel, plus formal living and dining room. Marble floors throughout. Beautiful views of the Intracoastal and Birch State Park. Private dock. Great location. Furniture is negotiable. Offered at $1,389,000.

2800 NE 14TH ST.

3 bedroom, 2 bath. Totally updated. All new hurricane impact windows and doors. Gourmet kitchen, all new floors.

Washer & dryer. Incredible views of Intracoastal and Birch State Park. 80 ft. deeded dock, with electric & water. Owner will finance! Offered at $999,000. Unit 15 also available updated with same views, offered at $499,900.

Virtual & video tours available at tagliamonteteam.com. Top Selling Agent In Broward County For One Sotheby’s 2017 ©MMXI ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker.

Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

S H O P

TA L K

Cia. Marítima A Brazilian resort wear brand follows the sun to South Florida

By Melissa Puppo

F

amous for barely-there bikinis, Brazil is an influential leader in the swimwear industry, and its most popular resort wear brand has landed right here in South Florida.

It’s called Cia. Marítima—“cia” being short for “compañía,” or company.

The new Town Center at Boca Raton outpost marks the second location to open in the United States following a storefront in Miami. Inside, shoppers will find an atmosphere quite similar to a cabana on the beach, with imported grass weed paired alongside bright aqua walls and accents of tropical greenery spread out across the boutique.

Fashion-forward “The whole idea here in the United States is we’re here for the modern woman,” says Joshua Kohn, the president of Rosset America, the company that designs high-end, high-tech textiles for Cia. Marítima.

The brand offers collections of swimsuits in all different cuts and styles to suit everyone’s tastes. Each collection has a different flare from the next, but bold prints and rich colors are always guaranteed. For example, the Zen Collection features a Buddha print to one that is Miami-inspired with Art Deco-like prints. There is also a permanent collection of solids

appropriate for any occasion.

One trend Kohn hopes will continue to catch on is shoppers wearing Cia. Marítima pieces to go from the pool or beach to a night out in the city and everywhere in between. “That you can accomplish here in the store in one swoop,” he says.

The best part? Each piece is made from high-quality Lycra, so shoppers can feel comfortable wearing the pieces all day long.

And while the brand is swimsuit-focused, it’s also a concept with plenty of resort wear offerings, such as cover ups, dresses, skirts and wraps, to a handful of accessories like sun hats, sandals and totes. This month be on the lookout for the ever-so-popular Brazilian shoe line Vert.

Origins The newest collection to hit the stores is Origins, which draws inspiration from the roots of Brazilian culture with “fascinating landscapes mixed with visual references from African landscapes.”

Origins includes styles from one-pieces to long sleeves and triangle-cut tops, to high-waisted and cheeky bottoms in colors of sand, green, red, orange and black mixed with textures of jersey, silk, tulle and viscose voile.

Cia. Marítima, 6000 Glades Road, Boca Raton / 561.368.6001 / ciamaritima.com

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Gulfstream Media Group and the Master Brokers Forum present...

THE REAL ESTATE ROUND-UP A MONTHLY FOCUS ON BROWARD COUNTY’S REAL ESTATE

We asked these

MASTER BROKERS...

Are we in a SELLER’S MARKET or a BUYER’S MARKET? And why?

Steve Roberge

John Beauchamp - INTERCOASTAL REALTY A buyer’s market - for the moment.

Inventory/asking prices are too high.

The new tax laws will make it a seller’s market soon.

- COLDWELL BANKER We could make an argument either way, as the market teeters between favoring buyer and seller based on property type and property location.

Jim Balistreri

Thomas H. Schon - COLDWELL BANKER

- BALISTRERI REALTY

It is BOTH a seller’s and buyer’s market - it is a VALUE-driven market. The VALUE is the key!

Many have now felt a slight market slowdown due to the Feds’ tightening of the money supply, causing a shift towards a buyer’s market in the mid-luxury space.

Carolyn Block Ellert

Brian Hero

- PREMIER SALES GROUP Lacking affordable supply, sellers command the single family market; in condo space, oversupply and developer incentives favor the buyers, with exception for truly unique extraordinary properties.

Deborah Bacarella

- ONE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Economic and political uncertainty worldwide has slowed sales. Sellers are now adjusting their pricing, so it’s becoming a buyer’s market.

Ellen Mitchell

- RE/MAX ADVANTAGE PLUS

- RE/MAX ALLSTARS

It is a definite buyer’s market. Sellers must price properly to get the buyer’s attention since inventory has risen.

We are now in a balanced market due to historically low interest rates and more flexible sellers.

Troy Hotchkiss

Joy Triglia

- COMPASS REALTY Economic growth will change in 2019, as the 30-year, fixed rate mortgage reaches 5.8%, a territory last seen in 2008 when rates were racing downward during the housing crisis.

- BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS RE FL 1ST Buyer’s market. Market has shifted, inventory is climbing, time on market is longer and recent luxury sales show declining prices.

Rose Sklar - COLDWELL BANKER The South Florida market is currently two fold. There is high inventory of luxury homes priced over $1 million currently experiencing longer days on market, which is a buyer’s market. On the other hand, with population shifting, a cycle is forming where empty nesters and millennials are looking for similar smaller or more urban settings to call home, creating a seller’s market at this price range.

The Master Brokers Forum is a network comprised of South Florida’s elite real estate agents.

For more information, please visit www.MasterBrokersForum.com. ............ Promotion ............

P O R T R A I T

The King of Openings Memphis Garrett spun off reality TV stardom into a career of opening new venues, and now he’s working on something big in Fort Lauderdale.

By Eric Barton | Photography by Austen Amacker

A

s a boy, back in his Kentucky hometown, Memphis Garrett would saddle up to the bar, and the kitchen would immediately start working on his order: fried shrimp and a Shirley temple with two cherries.

He’d eat while his mom finished her shift at the Whaler’s Catch in Paducah, and Garrett would watch as she busted her hump.

“It’s where I learned the value of hard work,” Garrett says. “Right from that moment, I don’t think I wanted to do anything else.”

Since then, Garrett has gone deep in the hospitality world. He’s now director of food and drink at The Dalmar Fort Lauderdale hotel. It’s the 35th venue he’s opened, along with a short break for a bit of fame on reality TV. All that might sound like a lot of hustling, but the hustle is something Garrett says he mastered early. When he was a sophomore in high school, his mother came home one day to find Garrett counting 15 grand in small bills on the kitchen counter. “She freaked out,” he recalls. “She thought I was selling drugs.”

Garrett and a friend had come up with a scheme to get 27 of their classmates to sell T-shirts with the logos of school mascots. All their sales staff got in return was a free shirt, but they ended up selling thousands. Garrett and his buddy also held parties and raked it in by charging for beers. “Any way we could take a buck, we would make a buck,” he says.

This resourcefulness continued at Florida State, where Garrett got his first job working security at The Moon. Then he started working with clubs to set up VIP services—something that was new back in the early 2000s and an idea that turned the venues into big-money businesses.

He moved to Los Angeles after school and worked his way up from busboy to mixologist at a property owned by the SBE hotel chain. He was eyeing a management gig when he got a call in 2008 about a reality TV audition. One of the potential contestants for “Big Brother” had dropped out right before

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filming would start, and Garrett landed the spot. He ended up as the runner-up for “Big Brother” season 10. He also walked away with a 1969 Camaro and $50,000—and a bit of name recognition.

Garrett used that newfound fame to ask SBE for a promotion. Soon, they were tasking him with opening new venues, and he landed a position as director of nightlife at the SLS that opened in Las Vegas in 2014. The SLS company then moved him to Miami to oversee properties in South Florida. But Garrett soon found himself burned out on the world of big hotel properties.

Three years ago, Garrett moved to Fort Lauderdale and opened the Poke House, a fast-casual concept in Victoria Park, and he added the juice bar JB&C in the MASS District.

When The Dalmar called last year about a job running the property’s dining

Venues: • Sparrow: A rooftop bar with a ’60sstyle décor that the owners say is “inspired by the golden age of American travel.”

• The Terrace Grill: An American bistro with “power lunch” specials, entrees in the $30 to $40 range and curvy banquettes under soaring ceilings.

• Rose’s Coffee Bar: A casual spot just inside the front entrance with pastries and coffees from Philadephia’s La Colombe Coffee Roasters.

• Sip ‘N Dip: A casual bar next to the sixth-floor’s infinity pool.

• Lobby Lounge & Bar: A sweeping hall space overloaded with stylish touches and views of Fort Lauderdale’s skyline.

The Dalmar, 299 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale / 954.945.9500 / thedalmar.com

venues, he liked the spiel. The Dalmar is the first of its kind for Marriott, a property that’s split between an extended-stay Element by Westin and an upscale Tribute Portfolio hotel.

The goal of the property is also to become something of a destination for locals, Garrett says, with venues that can pull in a crowd from early morning coffee drinkers, to lunch and dinner, to late-night drinks. Early this year, Garrett buckled down into what he says were 70-plus-hour weeks to open one venue after the next, spots that were earning national attention for their design and bringing something entirely novel to downtown Fort Lauderdale, a high-end hotel full of style.

On a recent Friday morning, Garrett sat with legs crossed in a heavily pillowed armchair in the hotel’s lounge. He wore a black jacket, black T-shirt, dark blue pants and dark slip-on shoes, with the only spot of bright a Dalmar pin on his lapel. He has undeniable style, right down to his electric blue classic Bronco. You can find him regularly on Twitter, where he clocks in at 17,000 followers and counting.

Garrett figures it will take two years to get The Dalmar “where it needs to be.” From there, he’s not sure, admitting he’s addicted to openings, to building something from nothing. For now, though, he’s working on adding things, like jam sessions where a bunch of musicians rotate on and off in the main lounge, a handsomely decorated sixth-floor hall with stunning views of downtown.

Unlike the nightclubs he opened throughout his career, the goal with The Dalmar is more long-term, he says. “Here, we’re on a journey and a path to create something really unique,” Garrett says. “It’s like, how long does it take to build an iconic hotel, a place that’s not just cool for a year but can sustain?”

For someone who’s spent the past decade traveling the country for new openings, Garrett says Fort Lauderdale might be the place where he finally settles down, where he finally finds his own way to sustain.

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APRIL 2019

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21 Isle Of Venice Drive PH02 | $1,670,000 3/3 | New | Move-In Ready Private Rooftoop Terrace + Dock

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20 Isle of Venice Drive #301| Las Olas | $2,350,000 3/3 | Designer Finishes | Wrap Around Terrace + Dock

2542 Laguna Drive | Harbor Beach | $3,500,000 4/4.1 | 125’ Waterfront | Remodeled | Quick Ocean Access

2617 Aurelia Place| Idlewyld |$2,395,000 5/5.1 | Brand New Contemporary | 2+ Car Garage

954.522.1555 | lauderdale-one.com

Matt Bertanzetti Broker Owner

Andrew Zier Owner, Luxury Specialist

The information contained herein is deemed accurate, though not guaranteed. Price and availability are subject to change without notice.

Exclusive Listing Broker: LauderdaleONE Luxury Real Estate. Brokers participation welcome.

P O R T R A I T

Turning the Tide Local Thomas D’Eri of Rising Tide Car Wash is named a 2019 Forbes 30 Under 30.

By Clarissa Buch | Photography by Austen Amacker

A

s Thomas D’Eri watched his younger brother, Andrew, a spirited individual with autism, struggle to find a job, D’Eri couldn’t sit back and watch. He knew Andrew was at risk of losing the chance to lead the full adult life he was capable of if someone didn’t step in.

“My brother has autism,” D’Eri says.

“Pretty early on, we realized we had to intervene to make a difference, and it all came to a head after I graduated college.”

D’Eri, who became interested in environmental sustainability at Bentley University in Boston, turned down lucrative careers in management consulting and finance to pursue social entrepreneurship, where he set out to dream up his own company in the hopes of turning a profit and making a difference. Less than a decade later, he succeeded.

In 2012, D’Eri and his family, who are originally from New York, traded snow for sun and launched Rising Tide Car Wash, a social enterprise built to empower young adults with autism, just like D’Eri’s brother, Andrew.

“Car washing is a process-driven role,” D’Eri says, who was named a 2019 Forbes 30 Under 30. “It’s consistent, detail-oriented work, and people with autism do a tremendous job with that.

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Plus, the car wash industry is a great platform to become part of a community and showcase our employees front and center.

The idea is to offer a helpful service and change the conversation surrounding people with autism.”

Since D’Eri, 30, and his father, John, debuted the business in 2012, they’ve employed more than 200 individuals with autism and generated $3 million in annual sales. With locations in Parkland and Margate, the father-son duo transformed struggling car wash businesses into lively settings with loyal customers.

“Our first car wash in Parkland serviced about 35,000 cars annually before we came in,” he says. “Once we implemented our model, we brought it up to 150,000 per year. With that success, we decided to build our Margate location from the ground up.”

At either location, about 80 percent of employees are individuals with autism, and a majority of customers live within a 3-mile radius.

“It’s incredible how many people have changed their perceptions of autism by visiting our car washes,” he says. “We’re also seeing more businesses around us employ individuals with autism, including our former employees, as well.”

In addition to cofounding Rising Tide Car Wash, D’Eri and his father are

also behind Rising Tide U, which offers resources and support to families and businesses interested in learning about employing people with autism. Their online course, The Autism Advantage, is the only program of its kind, offering a step-by-step roadmap for entrepreneurs looking to start businesses that empower individuals with autism. It’s the kind of tool D’Eri wished he had before he and his father jumped head-first into launching their own venture.

“Our mission is to communicate to businesses and the greater community that employing people with autism isn’t just a nice thing to do,” he says. “It’s a great business decision. We have much less turnover compared to other car washes, and our customer satisfaction is generally 50 percent higher. Our employees love being here, and they create an environment you can’t find just anywhere.”

For now, D’Eri is focused on refining Rising Tide’s car wash model and exploring the possibility of additional locations or an entirely new business concept.

“I work with my brother almost every day,” he says. “It doesn’t get much better.

We’re all in this together, and we’re working to create as many jobs as we possibly can, be it through our businesses or empowering others to start their own.”

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Gold Coast A Gulfstream Media

F

O

FEBRUARY 2019 2 Vol. 54/Number

lisher of Gold Coast

Did you know…

Group Publication/Pub

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we’re more than magazines.

DINGS 4 WED RATIONAL INSPI LOCAL NUPTIALS

THE UNDISCOVERED GUATEMALAN PARADISE

MAKE VALENTINE’S ET DAY SWEWITH

SHAREABLE DESSERTS FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS

You’ve known Gulfstream Media Group as a trusted luxury lifestyle print and digital medium for over 50 years, but did you know we also offer other ways to increase your ROI?

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Hit your intended target market accurately and precisely, every time.

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Contact your account representative or Associate Publisher Mark Corbett at 954.462.4488 x206 & MCorbett@GulfstreamMediaGroup.com.

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11600 MIRASOL WAY PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA WWW.MIRASOLCC.COM | (561) 776-4949

N O M A D ’ S

N O T E B O O K

Seek and Find The Keys shake things up with a first-time all-inclusive resort, Bungalows Key Largo.

by M E L I S S A P U P P O

I

’ve called Florida home for several years now and, surprisingly, have yet to make the trek to the southernmost point—to the land of famed authors, deep sea fishing and arguably the best Key lime pie served. I will get there eventually. But until then, a stop at a lesser-visited Key enticed me.

West of Overseas Highway and off the coast of Buttonwood Sound lies the newly opened Bungalows Key Largo. While its sister property, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, offers an all-

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inclusive option, this property marks The Keys’ first true luxury adults-only, all-inclusive resort. It was designed by renowned hotelier Jerry Johnson who pays homage to his favorite eastern and western destinations around the world throughout the exterior and interior design details.

Past the gates, the secluded 11.2-acre property is home to a network of private bungalows—135 to be exact—that include either waterfront views of the bay or a private garden oasis. Quaint

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living spaces come with verandas and outdoor soaking tubs and rainfall showers, and beach chic interiors are done in cream and gray with coastal touches like sea life artwork. The remainder of the property features bespoke aqua accents, bringing pops of color to its otherwise calming undertone.

My trip began with a quick drive through South Florida (Bungalows is just 63 miles south of Miami), but future guests can arrive via helicopter or by a 35-minute seaplane ride offered from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport.

Perhaps the best part of each day was waking up to a serene view. With sailboats anchored in the distance, it was like an oil painting had come to life. Adirondack chairs created the perfect place to enjoy the fresh breeze before a quick walk near the pier to get to Fish Tales, one of the resort’s restaurants, for a breakfast buffet complete with a bloody mary and mimosa bar.

How to spend the rest of the day is never far reach from reach. There are two pools for soaking up the sun; paddleboards and kayaks for exploring nearby Pelican Island; and beach cruisers for roaming the property. And, seek out a number of Buddha statues inspired by Bali, one of Johnson’s favorite spots. There’s one that portrays a woman sleeping, which Johnson’s niece designed. His 2-year-old daughter lovingly refers to it as “lady night night.”

I made an appointment at the Zen Garden Spa, complete with four outdoor treatment cabanas, a steam room and a Himalayan salt room. Black bamboo commonly found throughout Bungalows is woven into the outdoor spa’s relaxing room with yet another Buddha statue as a focal point.

For avid snorkelers, the property is a short distance from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and soon, the resort will offer allday fishing and snorkeling excursions.

It’s been nearly two years since Hurricane Irma rocked the Keys, and proof like the Bungalows shows things are picking back up just fine. I confirmed this to be true during an afternoon on a Duffy electric boat while zipping through the mangroves to spot dolphins and manatees in the bay.

While out on a floating tiki bar, captain Glen Davis shared tidbits about Key Largo’s vibrant past. He’s quite the island man, having lived on several since the ’80s. This upper Key is dotted with crayon-colored houses and motels that have called this piece of land home for decades. Passing by locals out and about,

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the lifestyle here could be summed up by a popular song’s lyrics: “No shoes, no shirt, and no problems.”

Back on land, an aperitif in the grand Hemingway Bar was calling my name.

Bartender James whipped up a “Love Potion No. 9,” just one cocktail specifically crafted for a permanent stay on the menu at the

writer-influenced hangout. A six-course dinner and wine pairing followed at Bogie & Bacall’s with dishes featuring seasonally caught fresh fish.

As developer Johnson intended, Bungalows is all about the sunsets. I toasted to the evening and watched as golden rays sunk behind the bay.

Bungalows Key Largo, 99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo; 305.363.2830; bungalowskeylargo.com

LAS OLAS IS GETTING BIGGER AND BETTER.

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Sizes: 00 to 26 Priced: $149 to $895 816 - 818 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 954-462-3222 | ZolaKeller.com

APRIL 2019

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SUMMER Escapes 2019

ON NEWSSTANDS THIS JULY!

South Florida is a vacation mecca. Our destination serves millions of visitors spending billions of dollars every year. In addition, many South Floridians choose to “staycation” in our tropical paradise. They do touristy things like shopping, dining, and entertainment, while staying in a grand resort or a cozy boutique hotel in our own backyard. Get your fair share of this summer’s specials by picking up a copy of our July summer issue at your favorite retailer or online!

Coming this July in ALL SIX of our lifestyle magazines!

Contact your representative for more information!

“A firm known for cases that are equal parts divorce and white collar litigation.”

— NEW YORK TIMES

A firm “known for handling divorce cases of the wealthy in South Florida.”

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“Worth compiled data from the largest divorce settlements” in Florida and the firm’s work “kept coming up.”

— PALM BEACH DAILY NEWS

These “highly creative lawyers” were hired to be a “wealth squad” in search of $400 million hidden in “a system exquisitely engineered to repel scrutiny.”

— NEW YORK TIMES

Fisher Potter Hodas, PL, is a law firm that concentrates its practice on complex, high-stakes divorce cases involving corporate executives, closely held business owners, professional athletes, celebrities, and wealthy families.

fisherpotterhodas.com | 561.832.1005 | West Palm Beach

F E AT U R E

IS IT REALLY ORGANIC?

ADVICE ON HOW TO SPOT THE REAL THING, AND MAYBE WHEN TO BACK OFF THAT ORGANIC PROMISE

By Eric Barton | Photography by Austen Amacker

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F E AT U R E

Dean Max

ORGANIC IN MODERATION

I

T

hink back a decade ago, walking through the aisles of say the Publix produce section, back to when things were a lot simpler.

Maybe tucked away in the corner, under a proud green banner, you’d find a few organic strawberries or apples, marked up high, maybe even past the price point where it even made sense.

Now, walk into that same store and you see those green organic labels everywhere, stamped on heads of cauliflower and wrapped around English cucumbers, sometimes barely any more expensive than their pro-pesticide cousins.

Go to restaurants, meanwhile, and organics are still a generation behind what we find in the supermarket. Can you, if you try hard, fill one hand with local restaurants that use only organic items?

If you’re willing to pay extra to make sure what you eat at restaurants began its life at an organic farm, read on. We spoke to our local experts about what to ask, where to go and how to know when everyone at a restaurant is lying to you—and yes, it definitely happens.

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t was, for his legions of fans, good news in the dining world when Dean Max returned to South Florida in January.

Technically, he had been here all along, as a resident of Fort Lauderdale. But Max, who made a name for himself in the last generation at a series of local restaurants, including 3030 Ocean, didn’t have a local place for a few years. Instead, he had his attention on seven restaurants elsewhere, including the Bahamas and Grand Cayman.

In January, Max returned with Even Keel, a raw bar and fish house in north Fort Lauderdale. Max is known for helping bring the farm-to-table movement to South Florida, but at Even Keel, you won’t find a long list of organic items.

That’s because Max says it’s simply not worth the extra money to pay for organic foods when it’s not going to increase the flavor. Citrus and butternut squash, for instance, do not see improvement with the organic treatment, he says. Instead, he hunts down organic items like chicken, carrots and tomatoes—things that improve by non-pesticide farming.

“We try to buy organic when it makes sense. It’s based mainly around flavor for us. Because flavor is the key,” he says. “A lot of farmers put money into organics, and then some farmers put money instead into seeds, and that’s going to produce better flavor.”

It’s also unrealistic, Max says, to expect a restaurant to choose unripe or underflavored produce simply because it’s organic. Instead, diners ought to look for restaurants that use organic items smartly, where the produce is picked simply for its quality.

“

We try to buy organic when it makes sense. It’s based mainly around flavor for us.” gulfstreammediagroup.com

Jodi Swank

EXPECT UNTRUTHS

W

hen Jodi and Darrin Swank started the Loxahatchee farm that bears their name 18 years ago, they faced lots of hurdles. It wasn’t just the difficulty of the business, of getting a working farm going, but the distributing of all that produce that became a nightmare—a constant slog to get restaurants to continually buy their produce.

Nearly two decades later, that’s still true, Jodi Swank says. Every week, she’s calling restaurants who have bought their produce for years, wondering why they haven’t put in an order yet.

The problem is that produce from suppliers like Sysco is undeniably cheaper than the fruits and vegetables the Swanks grow down the road. Restaurants regularly go with the cheaper option, and—here’s what really irks the Swanks—don’t update their menus. Even though the produce isn’t from Swank, many local places are still selling dishes with the promise that they are.

“My husband is out here killing himself 14 hours a day, and for them to put ‘Swank’ on the menu even though it’s not; it’s insulting,” she says.

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While Swank isn’t certified organic, the farm does grow produce without herbicides, fungicides or pesticides, Jodi Swank says. They haven’t gone through the process of getting certified because “the whole organic thing, in my opinion, is political,” she says.

The fact that restaurants can simply lie about where they get their produce puts diners in a difficult spot, she admits. Even if you ask about where the restaurant is getting their produce, they simply might lie about it. Local farms like Swank have at least gotten some help lately from local health department inspectors who have begun to ask restaurants for proof of “local” claims on menus.

It also helps when consumers ask questions about the source of local ingredients. Ask to speak to the chef, and ask for the specific names of the farms, Jodi Swank says. If they’re lying about it, no doubt it’ll be more difficult to do so face-to-face. “Ask, ask, ask,” she says. “Ask the chef to come out and explain where the produce is from.

Just ask. Always.”

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F E AT U R E

Joey Giannuzzi

LEARN HOW TO TASTE IF IT’S REALLY ORGANIC

F

“

ew people have been more connected with the organic and local movement than Joey Giannuzzi. Back when he started the Green Gourmet in Delray Beach in 2008, he hoped to ditch the flavorless, waxy fruits and vegetables served at most local restaurants.

That wasn’t so easy, as few suppliers back then offered anything better. Since then, Giannuzzi says nearly 100 Florida farms have begun supplying restaurants with local and organic vegetables, fruits and meats. Without a doubt, Giannuzzi says, you can taste the difference.

Organic chicken, for instance, is pleasantly firmer and far more flavorful than a traditional bird, which seems plasticky and pumped with water, Giannuzzi says. Beef will be more lean and flavorful, with a texture that is denser and seems somehow more real, more natural.

When you suspect something isn’t what it’s purported to be, Giannuzzi says to ask the server to explain. Ask for the chef or a manager.

“I do this all the time, and it drives my wife crazy,” he says. “She’s like, ‘Oh my God, leave them alone.’”

In 2013, Giannuzzi and real estate developer Mitchell Robbins opened Farmer’s Table in Boca Raton. Giannuzzi says it’s now far easier for him to source local and organic ingredients, but it remains difficult to find them at restaurants elsewhere. His advice: Train yourself on tasting the difference and you’ll know when restaurants are telling you the truth.

It’s really unfortunate that we have to do this, a taste test to see if something is really organic, Giannuzzi says. But too often restaurants will make stretching statements about what they’re serving. “It’s really knowing the integrity of a restaurant,” he says.

It’s really knowing the integrity of a restaurant.”

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APRIL 2019

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Jackie Vitale

ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS

A

s the owner of Ground Floor Farm in Stuart, you might think Jackie Vitale won’t go out to eat unless it’s an organic restaurant. But actually, she often finds herself out with friends, at restaurants with no or few organic choices. When she spots an organic item on the menu, though, Vitale will undoubtedly have questions to ask.

“There are a lot of questions to ask about how the food is produced. Sometimes the wait staff knows, sometimes they don’t, and sometimes even the kitchen staff doesn’t know,” says Vitale from her urban farm, market and restaurant in downtown Stuart.

Let’s say it’s a menu that promises local organic tomatoes in a caprese salad. Vitale will ask for the name of the farm, knowing few in Florida can produce organic tomatoes, especially in warm months. If they say all organic produce is local, it’s almost certainly not true, Vitale says, because it’s nearly impossible to source a menu of entirely organic produce. So if a menu promises it, ask the server how they’ve pulled it off. “Thing is, sourcing locally is really

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hard,” she says. “I spend most of my day sourcing local, and it takes much of my time.”

Then, even if the restaurant can explain which farm the organic and local items came from, there are plenty of other questions to ask. Are the organic items certified? Fair trade? Any GMO items on the menu?

“Don’t be embarrassed about asking specific questions,” Vitale says.

Then, if the restaurant can’t come up with the answers, if they tell you things that aren’t true, what do you do?

Sitting there, with a group of friends on a Saturday night at someone’s favorite spot, do you get up and walk out? Vitale says no, that you just have to live your life.

“It’s too hard to feel constantly guilt-ridden about your food choices,” she says. “Do your best, be OK with it, and move on.”

APRIL 2019

43

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F E AT U R E

When The Customer

IS WRONG

HOW CAN A RESTAURANT REFUSE A SPECIAL REQUEST? QUITE EASILY, SAY THE CHEFS AND OWNERS WHO HAVE CREATED A TREND IN SAYING NO.

Photo by Gyorgy Papp

By E R I C B A R T O N

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Chef Giovanni Rocchio of Valentino Cucina Italiana

APRIL 2019

49

F E AT U R E

T

he thing that changed everything about the way Yoni Martin runs his business began the day he pushed a coffee bean into the soil of a South American farm.

At the time, he was the new owner of a Fort Lauderdale café called The Grind Coffee Project. One of his suppliers offered him the chance to grow his own coffee plants, and so Martin hopped on a plane to Colombia.

Three years later, with the beans picked and dried, Martin imported them at a considerable expense. Finally, one glorious day, Martin brewed up a cup for a customer.

“Then I watched her dump five or six Splenda in,” he recalls, imagining how the delicate flavors of the coffee would be smothered by the artificial sweetener’s chemical taste. “It crushed me,” he says.

Right from that moment, he decided to run The Grind entirely differently. No more would customers order whatever they wanted. Gone would be the regular coffeehouse kiosk with different kinds of milks and sugars. From now on, his baristas would make coffee products to The Grind’s specifications, no exceptions.

It became a rule that Martin says allowed him to fully believe in the product he was serving, to know that his employees were handing out a coffee that’s as good as it can be. But there was a downside.

“I think this is a horrible business decision for me, an absolute horrible business decision,” he admits. “If this wasn’t a passion for me, if I wasn’t trying to give something back to this community, I could make, I don’t know, 20 or 30 percent more.”

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APRIL 2019

After a Sunday morning bike ride, a group of friends stop into Grind, and one of them orders a cold brew with milk. “No,” the barista tells him, she will not put milk in the cold brew. She explains that the already creamy cold brew would be watered down and ruined with the addition of dairy. He offers to add the milk himself if she’d just hand him the jug. “No,” she says, if that’s what he wants, he’ll need to go elsewhere.

Maybe you are one of many consumers who believes that’s downright ridiculous.

That’s because many of us have been taught the credence that “the customer is always right.” But a growing number of Fort Lauderdale restaurants are rejecting that idea and instead deciding that such decisions ought to be left to the experts—to the baristas, chefs and bartenders who have been trained to understand how a beverage or dish should be constructed.

The local restaurant that has become known more than any other for refusing special requests is the O-B House in Himmarshee Village. Co-owner Rodney Ely has helped define his restaurant both for its antispecial requests policy and for the careful sourcing of ingredients that he turns into quite special dishes. The skillet pancake, for instance, comes out golden-crisp on the exterior and nearly as creamy as pudding in the center.

“In the old days, back in the ’50s and ’60s, people went out to dinner as a food experience and weren’t as apt to ask the chef to do something different,” Ely explains.

Back then, diners approached a meal believing they were in the hands of a trained kitchen staff and let the experts decide

how a dish would be constructed. But then chains arrived with the promise that a diner could order a dish however they wanted.

Soon, empowered customers began to “act like they’re going to the Four Seasons” and make outrageous demands that just might ruin a dish. Workers at Olive Garden or Outback, Ely says, would just make it anyway.

When he and his partner opened O-B House eight years ago, they decided to reject that philosophy. They allow absolutely no substitutions, right down to refusing to not apply a raspberry mayo to a sandwich for someone allergic to raspberries (a story heard from a friend), or not allowing someone to sit down in an empty restaurant until the arrival of the other member of his party, a former U.S. senator (another true story).

The result of this strategy has meant an incongruous Yelp page for O-B House, full of both five-star raves and one-star write-ups that lambast the staff’s supposed ambivalent refusals to fill special requests. Ely says he simply doesn’t look at Yelp and instead relies on word of mouth. It has worked, too: He serves 300 people a day, more on the weekends, with waiting customers often filling the sidewalk out front. Nearly all leave happy, Ely says, with maybe one person every three months agitated enough to get up and leave.

“That’s because we are good at convincing customers to change their preconceived notions,” Ely says. “When they come in to an establishment like mine, they’ve already been trained by corporations. What we try to do is retrain them to a new way of thinking.”

The idea of teaching customers a bet-

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Photo by Gyorgy Papp (above) Agnolotti Carbonara at Valentino Cucina Italiana (right) Steve Martorano, owner of Café Martorano

ter way isn’t something all restaurants are willing to take on. At Café Martorano, where you might just eat the best meatball of your life, owner Steve Martorano has maintained a no-substitutions policy since opening his restaurant 29 years ago. Actually, it goes back even further, all the way to when he was selling sandwiches out of his mom’s basement in Philly.

The list of people Martorano has refused to accommodate is long, and it includes a few names you’d know. Years ago, Martorano was back in the kitchen cooking, as he is most nights, when a server approached him sheepishly. Frank Sinatra Jr. was in the house, and he had a special request: macaroni with red sauce, no garlic, salt or basil. This was, to emphasize the point, Frank Sinatra Jr., a celebrity and son of an Italian-American patron saint.

“I told him to get out,” Martorano recalls.

These days—with the original restaurant on A1A and sister restaurants in Atlantic City and Las Vegas—Martorano says he gets texts late at night from his kitchen staff asking if they can accommodate a request

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“People threaten you nowadays. ‘You don’t do this I’m going to write a bad review.’ I say, ‘OK, I’ll sit down and help you write it.’”

- Steve Martorano

for a substitution. He weighs them based on whether it’ll affect the end product. If someone’s allergic to shrimp, for instance, he might be willing to take them out, as long as it doesn’t compromise the integrity of the dish. It comes down to this: Ask for something that Martorano knows won’t taste good, and you’ve gone too far.

“Once you change what I do, I can’t guarantee it’s right,” he explains. “People threaten you nowadays. ‘You don’t do this I’m going to write a bad review.’ I say, ‘OK, I’ll sit down and help you write it.’”

That’s the kind of attitude that used to torture Giovanni Rocchio. Back when he was a kid, he worked at his father’s Italian restaurant in Lauderhill. Whenever a customer complained about a dish, Rocchio would cringe, knowing what was coming.

Then he would watch his father storm out of the kitchen and tell the person to get out and never come back.

When Rocchio got his own place, though, he came around to his father’s way of thinking. At first, he would throw anybody out who complained. Then, he softened, slightly.

“I realized that we can mess up,” he says.

Maybe once out of a few thousand times of doing it, they could put too much salt in the pasta water, and so maybe, he realized, the complaining customer was right.

Now, as chef at the acclaimed Valentino Cucina Italiana in Rio Vista, Rocchio will make a new dish for someone who doesn’t like something. But as far as substitutions, “It depends on my mood,” he says with a laugh.

In the back room of his restaurant’s kitchen a couple of hours before dinner service one afternoon, he added eggs, cheese and pepper to a hot blender, which both mixes and cooks the items within.

On the counter nearby, he began gently kneading dough. Soon, the dough and the filling would come together to become an agnolotti pasta with a carbonara filling, to be plated later with crispy pancetta and Parmesan crisps. It’s a dish so delicate and downright delicious that it helped Valentino gain a rare four-star rating from SunSentinel restaurant reviewer Michael Mayo in January. Gushing, Mayo wrote: “I cannot

APRIL 2019

51

F E AT U R E

Photo by Gyorgy Papp fathom how I will have a better bite of pasta, or anything, all year.”

Rejecting special requests, Rocchio says, is simply about asking people to respect his art. “I put a lot of thought into each dish, so each component is essential to that dish,” he says, pouring the filling into a metal bowl floating in an ice bath. “You look at this agnolotti. It has four components: eggs, pecorino, pepper and pancetta. You take out one of them ….” he pauses for a minute to consider the consequences. “I like music, and it’s like listening to Led Zeppelin without Jimmy Page. It’s like hearing the Rolling Stones without Mick Jagger.”

Beyond substitutions, though, the thing that really bothers Rocchio is the customer who orders something that’s not on the menu.

“When someone wants to make up their own dish, you’re telling me there’s nothing on my menu you find appealing?” he asks, getting a bit fired up, even as he continues to smile. “It’s like me coming to your house, and you offer me Champagne and caviar, and I ask for Pringles.”

It’s clear that to Rocchio and other chefs in town, it’s something personal for them. A request for a substitution isn’t just about tailoring a dish to the way you might

52

APRIL 2019

like it—it’s a personal affront to their training, experience and reputation.

Philip Darmon owns Hardy Park Bistro with his wife, Jessica. It’s a tiny restaurant tucked behind a CrossFit gym, and it puts out, in the humble opinion of this writer, some of the finest plates of food in South Florida. Darmon explains that he’s not opposed to substitutions, but sometimes it’s simply about the way a customer handles the request.

Recently, Darmon says, he had a customer tell the server: “I’m a vegan. You’re going to make me something vegan, or I’m leaving.” She was part of a group of eight, and having them walk out would be a hit to a small restaurant.

“I often make special dishes for vegetarians and vegans. But she was threatening. She was rude. I wanted to say ‘no,’ but what am I going to do? I have a business to run.”

Not long after that, he had a woman hand a card to the server. “Dear chef,” it began, before explaining the 15 items that she would become ill from eating. The card continued that she’d understand if he was simply too busy to accommodate her and that she appreciated his time. In the middle of dinner service—with a kitchen staff of

two, sometimes three on busy nights—Darmon walked out to tell her how much he appreciated the card and the polite way she approached it. And then he made her an offthe-menu dish that she could eat.

The special requests he rejects, and the customers who walk out because of it, those are the moments Darmon says he agonizes over, tossing and turning later that night.

“We put a lot of thought into the dishes on the menu,” he says. “When someone comes in and wants to write their own menu, it hurts a little bit.”

Coincidentally, after speaking with Darmon, this writer ended up at his restaurant for lunch, although he didn’t notice. One of two dining companions wanted the HPB Burger topped with cheddar and a tomato chutney so good that Darmon could sell it by the jar. But she wanted it with lettuce instead of a bun. And to add pickles.

Quite literally, I held my breath waiting for the response.

“Not a problem,” the server said.

The dish came just as ordered, the burger wrapped neatly in iceberg leaves. On the side sat a pickle split lengthwise. This day, in the war between the desires of customers and the artistic vision of chefs, it was a victory for the special requests.

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Welcome to our first

FACES OF FORT LAUDERDALE

Photo by Susan Dorta

Associate Publisher Mark Corbett & Writer/Photographer Valerie Sands Welcome to our first FACES of Fort Lauderdale, introducing you to a variety of local industry leaders and experts within our community. As you read through our profiles, you’ll meet the individuals behind the companies that make our city great. From luxury real estate to the finest jewelers in town, Greater Fort Lauderdale is home to many who work diligently each and every day to bring us the best goods and services available.

These are the FACES of Fort Lauderdale.

In the publishing industry, this type of section is known as “sponsored content,” produced by editorial staff in conjunction

with advertisers. The end result is an enjoyable and informative read bringing value to both readers and advertisers.

Special thanks to our writer and photographer Valerie Sands for making this section a success. If you missed being included this year, don’t worry–FACES of Fort Lauderdale will be back in July 2020.

Section Design by Susan Dorta

–Mark Corbett Associate Publisher of Gold Coast magazine MCorbett@GulfstreamMediaGroup.com

The FACE of

FORT LAUDERDALE

Mayor Dean Trantalis, Trantalis & Associates While Fort Lauderdale residents are busy managing their day-to-day lives, driving to work on its roads, deciding which beach to visit or where to ride their bikes, it’s easy to forget that there’s someone behind the scenes keeping it all together. That someone is Dean Trantalis, Mayor of Fort Lauderdale.

When Trantalis threw his hat in the ring for the 2018 mayoral race, he did so to help not only improve the city, but to improve the inner workings of the commission itself. What Trantalis saw was a city where the residents felt their vision was being ignored, and the city taken in a wrong direction. His goal was, and is, to improve the quality of life that was being threatened, and to steer the city back in the proper direction. Between infrastructure, development on the beach and the homeless problem, he keeps himself busy.

And, you’ll also find him behind the scenes, pushing legislation to better our environment; his most recent success being the elimination of plastic straws in Fort Lauderdale. When asked what he wanted his legacy to be, Trantalis simply says, “If I can come to work and be Mayor, and if there is a pattern of good as a result, that will be enough.”

954.566.2226 TRANTALISLAW.COM

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The FACE of

TOURISM

Stacy Ritter, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau After 20 years in law and elected office, Stacy Ritter embarked on a new career path “selling sunshine and happiness,” and she’s not looked back since.

As CEO and President of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau since 2016, Ritter promotes Broward County to tourists worldwide.

Recognizing that the beauty of Greater Fort Lauderdale goes beyond ocean and palm trees, Stacy has tapped into the cultural diversity many of us take for granted. “We are a true melting pot,” she says. “We’re not plagued with racial or religious strife, we have a huge LGBT+ community, and we all live together in harmony and respect.” Under her leadership, the CVB launched an unprecedented new destination brand initiative “Greater Together” to spread that message and to serve as a warm welcome and visitor invitation.

Ritter’s next step is retiring our yearsold “Hello Sunny” promotion and replacing it with a new, yet-to-be-announced slogan. While it has yet to be unveiled, it will be geared to appeal to domestic and international travelers, promoting the cosmopolitan but easy-going destina­tion Greater Fort Lauderdale has become–one where no matter who you are, you are welcome and embraced.

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954.765.4466 SUNNY.ORG

The FACES of

WINTERFEST Lisa Scott-Founds, Dawn Read, & Kathy Keleher, Winterfest, Inc.

Synonymous with the holiday season in South Florida, Winterfest produces the largest one-day spectator event in Florida and the 7th largest in the country; The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade. Bedazzled boats and displays entertain countless viewers along the New River and up the Intracoastal.

What most don’t realize is that Winterfest is much more than a one-night event, how much it benefits our city, or how a small team is responsible for steering a ship that size.

Meet Lisa, Dawn and Kathy, a powerhouse team of women who work yearround on the iconic event. The trio, who have worked together for nearly 20 years, are kept busy with events including a Family Fun Day, Grandstand Viewing, Student Art Contest and a season shattering Black-Tie Ball at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood.

With a mission to promote and benefit Greater Fort Lauderdale, Winterfest brings in thousands of people, boasts one million spectators, and creates an annual economic impact of over $50 million to South Florida. It takes a village with sponsors, community partners and volunteers. Funds generated not only go to produce “The World’s Most Watched Boat Parade,” but also to support the community in various ways. As the only night of the year when all restaurants along the route are sold out, the impact on restaurants alone is staggering.

Calling it a family affair and a joy, not a job, the team keeps “The Greatest Show on H2O” sailing smoothly.

954.767.0686 WINTERFESTPARADE.COM

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The FACE of

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Michael Goodman, Goodman Public Relations Michael Goodman, the Founder of Goodman Public Relations, is on an exciting journey as an award-winning PR pro. What began as a part-time job while in college has led to him being the owner of one of the most sought-after P.R. firms in Fort Lauderdale.

Offering full-service on all things public relations, Michael is able to provide support for a variety of industries. With a range of services from traditional PR, community engagement and event planning to social media management, crisis communications and digital marketing, he offers an integrated approach to create magic. His ability to customize programs, collaborate with multiple partners and deliver results is his menu for success.

Setting Goodman apart from his competition is his client relationships.

Immersing himself with their team, he acts as more of an insider than a vendor, being able to impart ideas with a familial frankness they appreciate, and–more importantly–trust. He accomplishes this all while inspiring change within the company culture and mindset.

His unique style of business transcends to years of community service which has been recognized with prominent awards. Merging his expert PR skills with his personal mantra for giving back is the foundation of his well-deserved respect from all those who cross his path.

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954.446.0806 GOODMANPR.COM

The FACE of

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Susan Renneisen, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Special events superstar Susan Renneisen is the perfect local leader to serve as 2019/2020 Chair of the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, without question the most special of all South Florida events.

As Vice President of Community Affairs and Special Events for the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Renneisen oversees all aspects of community affairs for the expanding casino and integrated resort complex. In 2003, Renneisen was offered a role at the new Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood as a member of the pre-opening Executive Team. She hit the ground running and Hard Rock immediately became the regional hot spot for special events and fundraisers, including the Winterfest Black Tie Ball. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood continues to be a highly sought after venue for local and national events.

Renneisen’s name is synonymous with South Florida’s social and philanthropic circuit. She has proven herself to be a tireless advocate for Fort Lauderdale’s diverse community, supporting hundreds of local organizations with their fundraising efforts and charitable endeavors, thanks to the generosity of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. She not only embraces charitable causes at work but also spends a significant portion of her personal time devoted to a number of causes close to her heart.

Still inspired after all these years and showing no signs of slowing down, it’s clear Renneisen is one more reason why the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood has hit the jackpot.

954.797.5499 SEMINOLEHARDROCKHOLLYWOOD.COM

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The FACES of

PHILANTHROPY The Bold Leaders of the Community Foundation of Broward

Bold leadership to create solutions to Broward’s biggest challenges. Bold philanthropists who make a difference today and forever.

The Community Foundation of Broward, founded in 1984, offers the unmatched local knowledge and philanthropic expertise needed to tackle issues that matter most to Broward.

The Foundation helps individuals, families and businesses create personalized charitable Funds that bring bold impact to issues that affect us all. Philanthropy generated by those 453 charitable Funds gets struggling families back on their feet, fosters breakthroughs in cancer treatment, creates a vibrant arts scene, puts at-risk students on the path to graduation, ensures dignity in aging and much, much more.

Because of the power of endowment, those who give through the Foundation build a permanent philanthropic resource for Broward to help where and when needed, no matter changing political or economic trends.

Guiding the Foundation is a dynamic, 22-member board of local executives and community leaders that includes Chairman Steven W. Hudson, Vice Chairman James Donnelly and Board members Paige Hyatt and Edward Hashek. Together with Foundation President and CEO Linda Carter, they lead an organization that’s not afraid to take on the big issues sometimes considered too tough to tackle.

With fast-growing Broward at a quality-of-life crossroads, the Foundation recognizes that the next generation will be defined by the long-term investments made today. The Foundation provides a bold way forward, with philanthropy that fuels innovation, builds community pride and shapes a better future for us all. The time is now to be bold for Broward.

954.761.9503 • CFBROWARD.ORG Sponsored Content

The FACES of

RETAIL

Melissa Milroy and Mark Trouba, The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale Shopping. Dining. Socializing. Entertainment. With all the services that shopping malls provide, it’s easy to be oblivious to the fact that someone is behind the scenes, seamlessly tying them all together. It takes diligent work to keep up with constant changes in retail and the wants and needs of a burgeoning city. At Fort Lauderdale’s Galleria Mall, they have a team to do just that. Enter Melissa Milroy, Senior Marketing Director, and Mark Trouba, VP/General Manager.

For more than 25 years, the duo has been shaping our shopping experience.

And anyone who has been in Fort Lauderdale for more than just a couple of years has witnessed the transformations. The mall has kept with the times. It boasts an impressive collection of restaurants with more to come. Three leading anchor stores and many popular retailers offer great selection. Through all the changes over the years, the one constant is its commitment to the community.

Beyond the shopping experience, the two understand that they have also a deeper responsibility to the city. From political, business and economic concerns to charitable and civic support, they are equipped with the knowledge of the ever-evolving demands of not only their clientele but also of the community at large. Fortunately for us, their talents, abilities and years of experience will allow them to continue doing so for our benefit.

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954.564.1036 GALLERIAMALL-FL.COM

The FACES of

INTERIOR DESIGN Mitchell Bloch, Bill Philby & Aaron Taber, Retro Interiors South Florida is more than just a location. It’s a lifestyle, and at the center of that lifestyle is our family and our home. It’s about how we live and building a life around those things that make us happy. And at the center of that lifestyle is our families and our homes. We want them to be everything we’ve dreamed of. That’s why hiring a professional designer has become as integral to the process as a builder or an architect.

Retro Interiors has been designing some of the most beautiful homes and waterfront residences for the last 25 years. Their private client list that reads like the “Who’s Who” of Fort Lauderdale

has gained them the reputation as one of South Florida’s most respected design firms.

Founded by William Philby and Mitchell Bloch, their personal approach has remained unwavering since the beginning. According to their Design Principal, Aaron Taber, “Our boutique-style approach ensures that while it may be our design, the result will ensure it feels like home to our clients.” That’s just one of the reasons they have built a name synonymous with trust and have earned their position as leaders at the forefront of interior design.

954.561.1058 • RETROINTERIORS.NET

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The FACES of

LAND USE LAW

Robert Lochrie III, Esq. & Nectaria Chakas, Esq., Lochrie & Chakas, P.A. All you have to do is look at our skyline to see it: views dotted with cranes and buildings flanked with scaffolding while new high-rises, hotels and offices sit in varying states of construction. As an ever-expanding home, business and tourist destination, Fort Lauderdale is moving on up, both literally and figuratively. But what we don’t see is what happens behind the scenes.

Before the first bulldozer clears the land, site plans, development agreements, zoning, environmental permitting and countless other legal considerations need to be handled. And once construction is underway, the need for other legal services continue. Without a good Land Use attorney, the process would be overwhelming. With Robert Lochrie III, Esq. and Nectaria Chakas, Esq., builders can worry about building and leave the legal heavy lifting to them.

With nearly 25 years experience each in land use law, the two began working together in 2004 while working for a different law firm, and in 2008 they started their own firm focusing exclusively on land use and zoning law. They navigate the legal issues, as well as community and political considerations and sensitivities that often arise in their field.

Many find the development approval process to be intimidating, but somehow they make it look easy and seamless.

As residents of Fort Lauderdale, they love watching the fruits of their labors from groundbreaking to ribbon cutting. Fortunately for developers, they don’t just focus on Fort Lauderdale, but throughout Broward County.

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954.779.1119 LOCHRIELAW.COM

The FACE of

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE Tony Beall, Mister Nonprofit Consultancy, Inc.

After spending nearly 13 years working in the corporate world at American Express, in 1999 Tony Beall decided that he wanted to transfer his “for-profit” skills into the nonprofit sector. Many years later, Beall is going strong with his passion. Now, he celebrates his 20th anniversary this year doing just that for the benefit of the expansive and diverse Fort Lauderdale nonprofit community.

Well into his philanthropic journey, Tony launched Mister Nonprofit Consultancy in 2010 to even further his impact.

Armed with knowledge, background and resources, Beall has been able to take his experience to help other nonprofit organizations flourish and maintain their relevance and promises to the communities they serve. By guiding them in maximizing their talent, setting priorities and cultivating partnerships, they are able to achieve their goals and deliver on their missions.

It’s Tony’s uncompromising passion for what he does that makes him so successful. His enthusiasm, optimism and appreciation of others is contagious, helping organizations see the possibility of what can be achieved and not just the obstacles they may face.

Serving humanity with passion and appreciation is what Beall would like his legacy to be. And with his continued commitment to nonprofits and their success, that legacy will expand globally.

754.281.8728 MISTERNONPROFITCONSULTANCY.COM

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The FACES of

ORAL & FACIAL SURGERY

Dr. Todd Sawisch & Dr. Jennifer Schaumberg, South Florida Oral & Facial Surgery Drs. Todd Sawisch and Jennifer Schaumberg understand that when it comes to things people fear, surgery is usually one of them. As Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial surgeons, they specialize in surgical procedures involving the face, neck, jaws and mouth. This includes oral surgery procedures such as dental extractions, bone grafting and dental implants, as well as facial cosmetic procedures such as facelifts, eyelid lifts, FUE hair transplants and injectables.

At South Florida Oral & Facial Surgery, you will find nothing less than an extremely qualified and caring team. From the administrative and surgical team members to the surgeons, they pride themselves on treating every patient with kindness, compassion and respect.

They also believe that education is key.

By clearly communicating and explaining what to expect during treatment they are able to alleviate unnecessary stress and fear. Patient safety and comfort is of utmost importance as well, which is evident by the advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art equipment they use.

Over the 20 years they have worked together, Dr. Sawisch and Dr. Schaumberg try to give back to the community as much as they can by donating their time and resources to local schools, community events and sports teams.

They strive to continue to be an integral part of the community that has given so much to them.

FORT LAUDERDALE: 954.772.2000 TAMARAC: 954.721.7990 Sponsored Content

ORALFACIALCOSMETICSURGERY.COM

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The FACE of

RESTAURANTS Tim Petrillo, The Restaurant People

Whether you live in Fort Lauderdale or just a visitor, it’s virtually impossible not to have frequented at least one of Tim Petrillo’s establishments.

A South Florida native, Petrillo, Co-Founder and CEO of The Restaurant People, moved from Boca Raton to Fort Lauderdale in 1992 with Houston’s restaurants. And, a mere five years later opened his first restaurant, Himmarshee Bar and Grill, a much-needed upscale restaurant with a unique feel, and ever-changing, creative menu.

Since then, he has continued successfully to bring fresh concepts in dining and nightlife to the area, to an audience who has come to trust him as a staple in Fort Lauderdale. Much of that trust comes from his involvement and commitment to the community; part of his core mission from the onset. Donations and involvement in worthy causes and venues for philanthropic events are just a few examples of his dedication and continuing mission to better Fort Lauderdale and its residents. With 11 restaurants in Fort Lauderdale including YOLO, S3, Boatyard, Township, the new Las Olas breakfast and lunch spot Java & Jam, pop-up dinners at TRP Taste and nightlife options like O Lounge and Rooftop @1WLO, Petrillo and The Restaurant People enhance our area and leave no dining stone unturned and no diner at a lack for choice.

954.523.0000 THERESTAURANTPEOPLE.COM

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The FACES of

CLOSET & STORAGE SYSTEMS Diego, Julian and Oscar Ruiz, The Closets Company An immigrant family from Colombia, the Ruiz family moved to Florida in 2000 fleeing from social conflict and financial strife. Seeing South Florida as an inclusive, multi-cultural location with an international pulse, they decided they would plant their roots in Fort Lauderdale. It was 2002 when Oscar, Diego and Julian Ruiz opened The Closets Company. Now, in 2019, their showroom is a testament to the beauty of the work and the success of their business.

With the Ruiz family handling advertising, marketing, sales and production, The Closets Company has five designers who work individually with customers on the layout of their projects. With eyes for composition, the designers are able to envision a beautiful and

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functional end product with storage to fit each individual’s needs.

And the ability to mix and match different materials like stone, woods and laminates with accessories and hardware makes it easy to create innumerable looks and feels, matching the diverse tastes of homeowners.

But in case you think The Closets Company only designs closets, you can think again. The designers and team are also able to transform garages, laundry rooms, closet doors, entertainment areas and home offices. That way, once you’re happy with your first closet, you’ll know who to trust for other projects down the line.

954.984.8588 • THECLOSETSCOMPANY.COM

From left to right: Maria, Lauren, Mark, John and Carolyn

The FACES of

FINANCIAL PLANNING AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT The Bodkins Group at Morgan Stanley Money. It’s arguably the most taboo subject one can broach.

While other conversations may seem more personal, it’s money we keep closest to the vest. Whether in times of economic boom or financial uncertainty, many of us don’t know how to best manage our resources or more importantly, who to entrust them with.

With over 100 combined years in the money management industry, the group certainly has the experience. And with a list of loyal clientele who are more like family than account numbers, you will be assured of the best, transparent investment strategy for your individual needs.

The team, comprised of Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor Mark Bodkins (41 years of experience); First Vice President and Financial Advisor John Duford (32 years); Senior Registered Associates Carolyn Williams (35 years) and Lauren Jordan (13 years); and Senior Client Associate Maria Strand (29 years) feels like more of a family than just business associates. And they treat their clients like extended family, knowing each personally, sometimes spanning multiple generations over the years.

Having a good financial advisor is an important thing. Having one who knows and cares about you personally? Even better.

305.936.2714 • FA.MORGANSTANLEY.COM/BODKINS

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The Bodkins Group is a financial advisory team with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management in Aventura. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC or its affiliates. The information contained in this article is general in nature and not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC Financial Advisors engage Gold Coast magazine to feature this article. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please visit us at http://www.morganstanley.com/ourcommitment/ or consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences. CRC2413558 3/19 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

The FACE of

EVENT & WEDDING PLANNING

Ana Vento, Events by Vento Designs Classic black with a strand of pearls.

Elegant, chic touches marrying contemporary and timeless. That is the feel you get when you walk into an event or wedding flawlessly executed by Events by Vento Designs.

Ana Vento, President and Executive Producer of Events by Vento Designs, launched her Fort Lauderdale based company over 10 years ago and takes pride in providing luxurious event planning for all price ranges. Ana’s extraordinary relentless drive, attention to detail and ability to think outside the box has earned her the respect from her clients.

Ana loves working in Fort Lauderdale, and even though she has a full schedule planning events for other charitable organizations as well as weddings, corporate events and more, she sets an example by promoting philanthropy always focused on enhancing the value of giving.

Ana can be found producing an event for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or Community Foundation of Broward, as well as sitting on boards and committees of local groups.

Whether she is throwing big events or raising big dollars to support core missions, Ana puts her heart and soul into everything she does. If you’re planning an event or your fairytale wedding, look no further–Events by Vento Designs will make your vision a reality!

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954.675.6600 EVENTSBYVENTODESIGNS.COM

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The FACE of

NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP DeAnn Hazey, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Southern Florida

Having a hobby that that supports you is a blessing. Having a hobby that supports you and others at the same time is a gift. DeAnn Hazey, Executive Director for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Southern Florida, falls in the latter category.

Hazey’s career evolved quite by accident. Drawn to causes in her youth, she began by volunteering in her spare time with the U.S. Army, the March of Dimes and raising funds for the arts. As volunteer positions evolved into jobs, her trajectory continued in a philanthropic path.

She arrived in South Florida in 2012 as the Chief Development Officer for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Broward County.

In October 2015, Hazey joined The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. In that time she has established herself as a prominent force in Fort Lauderdale non-profits.

By creating long-term relationships with her donors and staying engaged with their desires, unions are formed which support not just the cause but the community. Leading a team of 15 tasked with six campaigns that host multiple events, she is constantly engaged and present to the person or project at hand. Having raised $18 million in just over three years, her relationships with people makes her a leader in her field. What a hobby, indeed.

954.744.5300 LLS.ORG/SOUTHERN-FLORIDA

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The FACE of

LATIN MARKETING

Arminda “Mindy” Figueroa, Latin2Latin Marketing Being one county away from MiamiDade, it seems odd that a Latin-based marketing company would choose Fort Lauderdale as its home base. However, that is exactly what Mindy Figueroa, owner of Latin2Latin Marketing, decided to do. A Puerto Rican native, Figueroa lived and worked in New York for 18 years but pulled up her roots and moved to Fort Lauderdale 12 years ago.

With three decades of marketing experience, Figueroa works with corporate clients to build their brands for the Latino consumer using their proprietary Latin Ready Assessment®, a strategic growth accelerator tool. As all clients have different concerns and goals, she works with each individually, gleaning what they’re looking to accomplish or change. Armed with research, data and hard facts, she seizes the moment, devising sound strategies and delivering world class execution while watching out for the ROI. While her projects are spread nationally, Mindy chose Fort Lauderdale as her home-base for several reasons. In her words, “There’s a New York sophistication but with a casual elegance. It’s chic and vibrant but not stuffy.” With diversity at the center of everything she does, our distinctly divergent community speaks to and supports her profession and passion. And with just a seven-minute drive to the airport, she can be off to a concrete jungle and back to her beach paradise in no time.

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954.376.4800 L2LMARKETING.COM

The FACES of

LUXURY REAL ESTATE Peter Barkin & Mark Gilman, Compass

Luxury penthouses with views of the ocean. Multi-level townhomes with floorto-ceiling windows and dockage for your boat. Opulent mansions perched on the Intracoastal with a front row seat to the Yachting Capital of the World. With so many options and backdrops from which to choose, Fort Lauderdale is the ideal place to buy your own slice of heaven.

Fortunately, Peter Barkin and Mark Gilman of Compass are the ideal professionals to help buyers and sellers navigate the myriad of choices and making real estate dreams come true.

The Barkin-Gilman Group is built on ethical practices. They believe in getting back to basics with clients while also keeping up with the constant technology driven changes in an ever-evolving real estate industry. With more than 60 years of living in Fort Lauderdale, as well as 40 years of combined experience in real estate, the two joined forces in 2002 to provide buyers the keys to their dream homes by helping unlock all the resources the city has to offer. Anything regarding schools, parks and beaches, fitness centers, restaurants and spas, no question or query goes unanswered.

In the end, buyers and sellers always feel assured in the ultimate choice they make.

Peter and Mark never treat their clients like a one time sale, so they’re sure to be there when it’s time for your next move!

PETER: 954.675.6656 MARK: 954.557.8777 BARKINGILMAN.COM

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The FACE of

COMPLEX COMMERCIAL LITIGATION Bill Scherer, Conrad & Scherer

Few have done more to shape the legal landscape in Fort Lauderdale than Bill Scherer. Since co-founding Conrad & Scherer in 1974, he has earned a reputation as one of our area’s most distinguished attorneys.

He is widely known nationally for his role in the 2000 presidential election recount, where he led the team of attorneys that represented President George W. Bush and personally represented the president himself.

Locally, he was the driving force in the recovery of funds from Scott Rothstein’s multi-billion-dollar Ponzi scheme, among the highest percentages of recovery for Ponzi victims ever. Another of his cases generated one of the largest damage awards in Broward’s history.

And as General Counsel for the North Broward Hospital District for 17 years, he guided one of the largest public healthcare providers in the nation.

His decades of service to the community include founding the St. Anthony’s Foundation for Education, and the governmental positions he’s held include 20 years of service as a gubernatorial appointee to Florida’s Judicial Nominating Committee for the Seventeenth Circuit.

For all this and more, he is among the area’s most honored attorneys, with an enviable list of professional and philanthropic accolades to his credit.

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954.462.5500 CONRADSCHERER.COM

The FACE of

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE Randy Ramroth, Symphony at the Waterways

When Randy Ramroth graduated college with a degree in mathematics, his intention was to be a math teacher and baseball coach. Due to the sharp decrease in education hiring, teaching jobs were nearly impossible to find. Little did Randy know that the job he accepted as a Dining Service Director at a local assisted living community would pave his way to a 30-year successful career in the senior living industry.

Randy has planted his roots in Fort Lauderdale as the Executive Director at Symphony at the Waterways, a concierge service, luxury living community situated directly on the Intracoastal.

Throughout the growth of his career, he has held various positions in varying climates; from frigid Michigan (an accidental brain freeze as he calls it) to sun-soaked Fort Lauderdale where he intends to stay. A lover of the outdoors, Randy use to drive his boat past the construction site that would end up being Symphony at the Waterways and think, “Wow, that would be a fantastic place to oversee.� As the law of attraction would have it, he began his role there in July and has not even looked back.

His passion for the business lies in his love of working with seniors. And if the backdrop is water and palm trees, all the better!

754.212.1870 SYMPHONYWATERWAYS.COM

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The FACES of

GYNECOLOGY Amy Sonnenblick MD, FACOG Finding a good doctor can be challenging. There are so many factors to consider. Are they caring and kind? Where were they educated? How many years have they been practicing? How do they treat their patients? Is their staff compassionate? Do they listen?

Fortunately, for our readers, there is a gynecologist in Fort Lauderdale who can assuage the fears and concerns women have in picking their most personal physician.

Dr. Amy Sonnenblick is a board-certified Ob/Gyn who has been practicing in Fort Lauderdale for over a decade, garnered a well-deserved reputation as one of the top in her field in South Florida and been named a Gold Coast magazine and Castle Connolly Top Doc-

tor for 10 years. With an undergraduate degree from Northwestern and a Medical Degree from Cornell, Dr. Sonnenblick certainly has the educational credentials. But it’s her individualized and personal care coupled with her caring, dedicated and long-term staff that earns her the most kudos. Setting her practice further apart is her Nurse Practitioner, Gina Gotkin, who acts as a personal liaison to her patients by answering questions, relaying test results, dealing with prescriptions and ensuring a seamless follow up.

With patients of all ages from teen to geriatrics, all from varied and diverse cultural backgrounds, Dr. Sonnenblick loves practicing in Fort Lauderdale. And Fort Lauderdale is lucky to have her.

954.635.6243 • AMYSONNENBLICKMD.COM

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The FACES of

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE Talerico Family, Piazza Italia Frank Talerico, along with his sisters Rita and Sara, were born in Calabria, Italy. Together with James Tomecsek they own and operate the new Piazza Italia on Las Olas and Casa Calabria located in the Ocean Manor Resort in Fort Lauderdale.

Looking to provide his family with a better life, father Papolo moved to the U.S. in 1973. While living in Michigan, Talerico opened his first restaurant at age 20. Three years later, he sold it and moved to Fort Lauderdale where he opened a number of pizzerias. Always thinking ahead, he decided to get into real estate, eventually becoming a developer. In 2004 he purchased Ocean Manor Hotel, renovating it from a one to a three-and-a-half-star hotel. Armed with

authentic recipes from his home town, he flew his two aunts in from Italy to oversee the kitchen and ensure their dishes were prepared perfectly. From the success of Casa Calabria, they opened Piazza Italia on Las Olas.

Surrounded by stone walls, arches and a fountain crowning the dining room, you feel like you’re in Italy as you walk in. Then, the authentic Italian dishes bring you to his native Calabria.

Perhaps it was something about the Venice of the Americas that landed Talerico in Fort Lauderdale. Whatever it was, he brought a true slice of Italy with him.

954.533.7130 • THEPIAZZAITALIA.COM

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The FACE of

CONCIERGE COUNSEL Staci Genet, Genet Law Office

When she began practicing law 25 years ago, Staci Genet of the Genet Law Office was handling complex business and real estate litigation. In most litigation, only the attorneys reap the benefit of the long, expensive and stressful litigation process. As much as Genet loved (and still loves) to litigate, she liked and cared about her clients more and wanted to help free their lives and bank accounts from litigation stress. In short, Genet was intent to keep her clients out of court completely. That’s when she started offering concierge counsel services. For a small monthly retainer, clients can save years and hundreds of thousands of dollars between time, filings and court fees.

As concierge counsel, Genet learns her clients’ business, reviews their documents and grants them 24/7 access for questions large or small. Her clients possess negotiating power that comes with knowledge not weakened by uncertainty. This way, clients not only increase their revenues but also keep their money, rather than spending it on costly litigation which could have been avoided with a quick phone call or office visit.

Because Genet recognizes that every business is unique, her service is customizable to fit the needs of every client.

Make no mistake, though: if you need litigation, Genet doesn’t mess around.

While you may enjoy sitting across the table sharing a meal with her, in court, you would want the seat next to her.

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The FACE of

THAI CUISINE & SUSHI

Chef/Owner Mike Ponluang, Coco Asian Bistro & Bar Born and raised in Thailand, Mike Ponluang made the move to South Florida in 1980. While he came to the Sunshine State to help cook at his cousin’s eatery, it wasn’t long before he opened his own restaurant. Now, five restaurants and nearly 40 years later, he’s still going strong. Since opening Coco Asian Bistro & Bar in the Harbor Shops in Fort Lauderdale in 2006, Chef Mike has developed a loyal following of local residents and visitors.

A combination Thai and sushi restaurant, Coco offers diners a unique twist on the standard Asian fare. Chef Mike creates delectable and authentic Thai dishes, along with a sublime array of sushi, sashimi and specialty rolls. He is also dedicated to using high-quality ingredients, from top-drawer fish, seafood, beef and chicken, to fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs. Diners can taste the difference in every bite. Chef Mike also uses French cooking techniques for many of his inventive dishes, and he is always adding new dishes to his menu to augment the list of perennial favorites.

His newest notion may be the most exciting addition so far. This summer, Chef Mike will be introducing gastronomy to Coco’s enticing food and bar menus. Marrying classic ingredients with science, dishes and drinks will be taken to a new level. This new style of cuisine will allow Chef Mike to create delicious new dishes that will please the eye as well as the palate.

This approach of combining the new with the old has worked for him so far–and luckily, he shows no sign of slowing down.

954.525.3541 COCOASIANBISTRO.COM

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The FACE of

SINUS & ALLERGY CARE Dr. Richard Callari, Broward Sinus & Allergy Center

Fort Lauderdale residents often take for granted the ability to smell and breathe in the fresh, salt sea air and flora of South Florida. Many, however, are plagued by sinus and allergy issues which can make breathing that air challenging. Thankfully, there is a doctor who can help make that deep breath a reality.

Dr. Richard Callari has been serving patients with sinus and allergy issues for more than 25 years, and has earned a reputation as a trustworthy physician leader who treats each patient as an individual.

As not everyone needs the same exact services, tests or procedures, he only introduces surgery as a final option. From simple to cutting edge tactics, each patient knows that they are getting specific and personalized treatment.

A former Chief of Staff at Broward Health, he continues to dedicate time to training medical students from local universities. He believes that having the support of an amazing wife, family and dedicated team along with a personal yet professional approach makes him a better physician and sets his practice apart from competition.

If you have sinus or allergy issues, you can breathe well knowing Dr. Callari is here to help.

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954.760.7836 BROWARDSINUSANDALLERGY.COM

The FACES of

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Renée LaBonte & Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese, Symphony of the Americas In 1988, when Symphony of the Americas’ Artistic Director Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese decided to create an orchestra in Fort Lauderdale, it must have looked like a fool’s errand. In the heyday of hair bands, decrepit hotels and seedy bars, the conductor saw an oasis ripe with opportunity. Spending his training and doctorate living in colder cities up north, he was eager to settle into a more welcoming climate. Fort Lauderdale reminded him of his native Panama, so he set up his music stand and began conducting his vision. Now, in its 31st season as the orchestra in residence and the official performance partner with the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Symphony of the Americas is world-renowned.

Working alongside the Maestro is Vice President and Executive Director Renée LaBonte. As a classical concert pianist herself, LaBonte provides a working knowledge of what happens on stage.

Off stage, her approachability and forward-thinking help keep the performances new, exciting and fresh. With series like their Summerfest concerts and tour, or watching as a French artist creates an original new work on stage while the orchestra plays Debussy, Bruzzese and LaBonte have been at the center of Fort Lauderdale’s transition from metal to Mozart for years. And with many projects always in the works, the band will continue to play on.

954.335.7002 SYMPHONYOFTHEAMERICAS.ORG

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The FACE of

COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE PARTNERSHIPS Stacy Hyde & Richard Carlisle, CAN Community Health When Broward House opened its doors in 1988, its purpose was to ensure that people with HIV/AIDS received compassionate care. What started as a 52 bed home for those in need of housing or assisted living services has gradually expanded its mission. Under the leadership of CEO Stacy Hyde, offering prevention, education and testing, drug and mental health therapy, housing and case-management, Broward House helps ease the burdens of lives impacted by challenge and stigma. The only thing Broward House previously did not offer was medical assistance.

By good fortune, two years ago Richard E. Carlisle, CEO of CAN Community Health, began a partnership with Broward House. By providing the finest medical, psychological and lifestyle counseling to all patients–regardless of their financial situation, insurance status or ability to pay–patients can concentrate on getting better, not on how they will afford it.

It makes sense that the two teams joined forces. Looking to assist the most people possible, CAN Community Health seeks out organizations that have the deepest and most widespread network of resources and access to people with HIV/AIDS in need. With the history and growth of Broward House over the past 30 years, they clearly came to the right place to do the most good. The two agencies complement each other in creating a holistic approach to health in one location.

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954.568.7373 x7373 BROWARDHOUSE.ORG

The FACE of

CUSTOM JEWELRY

Pamela J. Rossi, P.J. Rossi Jewelers With 36 years of experience as a diamond and jewelry professional and 25 of those located in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Pamela Rossi of P.J. Rossi Jewelers has established herself as a trusted expert in the custom jewelry business in the Fort Lauderdale area.

As an award-winning jewelry designer and GIA Graduate Gemologist, Rossi prides herself on the one-on-one personal attention she gives to each client. From ideas, to sketches, to hand-carved waxes or computer-aided designs, custom pieces are manufactured with her team almost entirely in-house. Pamela routinely exceeds expectations with her ability to create unique designs representing her client’s style, often re-purposing old jewelry heirlooms into new fashionable, wearable art. Rossi personally sources all gems and diamonds, often traveling abroad to ensure the highest quality and best price possible for her clientele.

Proof of her vision, talent and craftsmanship is substantiated by returning locals and world travelers alike, each looking for a one-of-a-kind treasure as a memory from our little slice of paradise here in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Consistently delivering the finest custom jewelry in the area at a fair price, in a store where everyone feels welcome, sets her apart from her competition and ensures her continued success.

954.492.9133 PJROSSIJEWELERS.COM

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The FACE of AWARD-WINNING VIDEO PRODUCTION & CONTENT MARKETING Kristin Kauffmann, Blue Truck® Media

Building a business is hard work.

While entrepreneurs understand their niche and how their product or service can help the masses, they rarely have the time and expertise to focus entirely on marketing. Moreover, in a world driven by social media and constant visual stimuli, video content is now a required component in the marketing mix. Throwing a homemade video together and hoping Facebook friends will share it is not the ideal business model.

As the owner of Blue Truck® Media, Inc., Kristin Kauffmann (formerly Kristin Pelletier) brings 25 years of award-winning video production and content marketing to Fort Lauderdale. Her passion?

Helping entrepreneurs and speakers harness the power of video to optimize visibility, stand out from the competition and grow their businesses. Her background in advertising and public relations allows her to contribute a much-needed business approach to creating relevant, engaging content.

Kauffmann has earned a reputation as one of the best in her field. Among the kudos for her work, she recently received a silver honor in the SFEA Kaleidoscope Awards and is the recipient of twelve Telly Awards honoring excellence in video and television across all screens. With a diverse list of local and international clients, Kauffmann’s consulting and production work takes her around the world. Luckily, she’s based right here in Fort Lauderdale.

If you are looking for ways to benefit your company’s bottom line, Kauffmann and Blue Truck® Media will deliver the fuel you need to drive traffic and accelerate your business.

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954.999.5999 BLUETRUCKPRODUCTIONS.COM

The FACES of

MENTAL HEALTH Ventre Medical Associates Mental health is something which affects everyone and is not talked about enough. For those who are suffering from severe depression, anxiety, or addiction it can be elusive. Fortunately, the Board- Certified doctors at Ventre Medical Associates specialize in treating patients with such needs.

VMA doctors and their support team of psychiatric APRNs have the experience to help people at many different levels of care. With two out-patient office locations in Broward County, and multiple doctors serving as Chairman of the Psychiatry Department at some of Fort Lauderdale’s leading hospitals, they are experts in routine mental healthcare and acute care stabilization.

VMA has built a diversified medical practice which further

allows patients to be matched to their ideal treatment plan. The VMA team specializes in treatment for depression and utilizes cutting edge treatment options like FDA approved dTMS (Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), a non-medication procedure to help patients get out from under the weight of their depression.

Staying on the forefront of medical advancement is important to the VMA team. Their commitment to quality of care is only surpassed by their genuine passion for their patients. By focusing on each patient as an individual, the VMA team is able to customize treatment options tailored to the patients’ specific goals and provide them with the tools they need to live life to the fullest.

954.561.6222 • VENTREMEDICAL.COM

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The FACES of

HOME STAGING

Sandra Holmes & Lyn Spaeth, Luxe Home Staging & Design When it’s time to sell your property, it’s important to set your house apart from other properties on the market.

That’s when it’s time to call Luxe Home Staging & Design. As one of the premier home staging companies in South Florida, they work with discerning builders, realtors, investors and home sellers alike.

Principal owners Sandra Holmes and Lyn Spaeth are experts at capturing the essence of the properties they stage.

Helping their clients market their largest investment, maximize the financial profit and minimize the sales cycle are all part of the reason that Luxe Home Staging and Design continues to be a real estate industry standout.

Sandra and Lyn understand generational buying patterns and know how to create a lifestyle that buyers seek. No matter the price range or size of a house, Luxe transforms properties to positively impact potential buyers. Their work reflects the latest in current design trends, and they are experts at showcasing each property’s best assets.

This dynamic duo embraces the philosophy that their client’s satisfaction is as equally important as the services they provide, and they are dedicated to making those clients the #1 priority.

Looking for inspired spaces and exceptional results? Look no further than Luxe Home Staging & Design.

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954.304.7355 LUXEHOMESTAGINGANDDESIGN.COM

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The FACE of

ORTHOPEDIC SPORTS MEDICINE Dr. Erol Yoldas, Orthopedic Specialty Institute Fort Lauderdale is an active community. People of all ages take advantage of the year-round sunshine to participate in sports on land and water. As such, we are a hotbed for sports related injuries.

Dr. Erol Yoldas attributes it to a mindset that permeates the city, which is one with health and physical rejuvenation at the core. A Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon with a Fellowship in sports medicine, Dr. Yoldas specializes exclusively in sports related injuries, specifically of the knee, shoulder and elbow.

Having worked for years with Miami’s Dolphins and Marlins, and as current team physician for Nova Southeastern University, he has seen just about every sports injury imaginable. Through the years he has seen and adopted advances in treatments, and in some cases he options to avoid surgical procedures all together. By using Biologics to help repair tissue and heal naturally, he has seen rotator cuff, ACL and elbow ligament reconstructing surgeries have diminished recovery time while improving outcomes.

Yoldas decided to open his own private practice in Fort Lauderdale three years ago because he appreciates the big-small town feel of Fort Lauderdale.

He enjoys working in the community and giving back locally. During football season, you’ll often find him volunteering his services at local High School football games, engaging with the athletes of tomorrow.

While no one likes the idea of a sports related injury, we’re lucky to have someone we can trust… just in case.

954.866.9699 OSIFTL.COM

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The FACE of

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Sheriann Namer , Namer Consulting, LLC Coming back to Fort Lauderdale from New York in 2003, Sheriann Namer of Namer Consulting didn’t know many professionals in the community nor what her future held. Now, after 20 years, she has established herself as one of the most recognizable names in the Broward and Palm Beach hospitality and charity circuits.

By working with LXR Hotels and Resorts at both their Boca Resort & Club and the Hyatt Pier 66 in Fort Lauderdale, Namer decided that she wanted to dedicate her career to making a difference in the not-for-profit world.

Namer first made her mark at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as the Campaign Director of both their MiamiDade and Broward Light the Night Walks. She grew the events to sevenfigures, raising over $1.1 million, and millions more over five years to help cure blood cancers. In 2012, she moved into higher education, raising over $4 million for the College of Education at Florida Atlantic University. Through connections made over the years, Namer realized that she had an opportunity to impact multiple non-profits by introducing like-minded people with like-minded interests. She connects people who want to give to causes they are passionate about. Win-win!

For connections that are beneficial to the community, Namer Consulting is the name to consult.

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754.214.7044 NAMERCONSULTING.COM

The FACES of

KITCHENS

Armand & Susan Rocco, The Kitchenworks When Armand and Susan Rocco–the future owners of The Kitchenworks–were remodeling their home, Susan simply couldn’t find someone to do their kitchen who could earn her confidence. All of the designers she spoke to were men, and none seemed to have much cooking experience and a deeper understanding of kitchen functionality. Finally, she decided to design her own kitchen and had it built by a respected cabinetry company. Once the job was completed, the firm let her know that she had a natural talent. As friends who saw her kitchen started asking for her help, she started to sell jobs out of her home. Now, 30 years, three expansions and two showrooms later, The Kitchenworks is still building dream kitchens. In the meantime, they’ve also built their services and selections.

The other half of this couple, Armand, loves to cook and is a lover of gadgets large and small. Naturally, Armand’s strengths are responsible for the appliance side of the business. He procures top-of-theline appliances, everything from ranges and refrigerators to ironing boards that practically do the work for you. The showroom is a delight for home chefs and entertainers.

The Roccos’ love and appreciation for the diversity of Fort Lauderdale shows in their work, which is as individual and special as each of their clients. Their showroom is a testament to this as no design vignette mirrors another, assuring there is a style to inspire everyone.

When it’s time for a kitchen remodel, you can feel safe knowing that The Kitchenworks brings quality and beauty to the table.

954.764.1482 • THEKITCHENWORKS.COM

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The FACES of

NEW DINING Gennaro & Michele DiMeo, Tuscan Prime Italian Chophouse

Born in Naples, Italy, Gennaro DiMeo came to the U.S. at age 15. Armed with a cache of authentic recipes from his hometown, DiMeo opened his first restaurant at age 18. Since then, he and his partner in business and life, Michele, have established four restaurant concepts. With 14 locations in three states, they cover the gamut, including counter order, table service, casual dining and full service fine dining. As luck would have it, their second fine-dining establishment is about to open in our backyard.

Opening in Spring 2019 at 401 East Las Olas, Tuscan Prime Italian Chophouse is bringing the “WOW” to Fort Lauderdale. A complete gutting and remodeling have transformed the tired location into a mind-blowing visual experience. An indoor/outdoor bar makes way to a sprawling, open floorplan with authentic Italian tile and furnishings, anchored by an authentic dried olive tree as the centerpiece of the dining room.

And the food…oh, the food.

Combining their passion for foodservice and their commitment to community, the DiMeo’s business model always includes philanthropic involvement. Steering clear of national marketing machines, they choose to work with charities embedded locally in a continuing commitment to their neighbors.

With a much-needed Sunday Jazz Brunch, a mind-blowing Ladies Night concept and incomparable menu, Tuscan Prime Italian Chophouse is definitely primed to be the next hot-spot.

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954.767.0222 TUSCANPRIME.COM

The FACE of

EVENT PLANNING & COMMUNITY RELATIONS Alyssa Lovitt, I Lov-itt Events, LLC Alyssa Lovitt has been a member of the Fort Lauderdale community for over 30 years, and in that time has built a reputation for herself as a proven Sales and Marketing professional. With decades of hands-on experience in the hospitality industry working with the “who’s who” in Fort Lauderdale, Lovitt created I Lov-itt Events, LLC to provide our area with a one-stop shop for event planning and professional connecting.

A significant aspect of her business is community relations and marketing.

Whether Lovitt is working on a nonprofit event, company meeting, birthday party or wedding, each of her clients receives the same personal attention and commitment, with a vision for future possibilities together.

Lovitt has dedicated herself not only to her clients but also to the community-at-large; she has donated her time and resources to organizations such as Winterfest Boat Parade, Big Brothers Big Sisters, neighbors4neighbors, Junior Achievement, The Ann Storck Center, The Pantry of Broward, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and many others.

Throughout her years of cultivating relationships, she has developed an uncanny ability to envision both the event and the people who will connect best to make it an effortless success for all involved.

Her ultimate goal is to be known for her dedication and commitment to everything and everyone associated with her name. It’s safe to say she’s already accomplished that.

954.616.7667 ILOVITTEVENTS.COM

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FINE IMPORTED JEWELRY & LUXURY WATCHES Ed Suhyda, Carrazza Jewelers Edward Suhyda never anticipated owning a successful jewelry store. Back in 1982, Ed’s love for great pizza actually had him searching out locations for a pizza parlor. Despite being a keen collector of exceptional European jewelry, he took little interest in the boarded-up storefront of a defunct jewelry shop along the A1A. Even when a jeweler friend talked Ed into giving him a $1,000 check toward the store’s lease, Ed forget all about it until three months later. By then, the check was cashed and he was the proud new owner of Carrazza Jewelers at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center. The rest is history.

Opening in March of 1983 with a whopping inventory of ten rings, 20 chains and several bracelets, Suhyda had his skeptics who didn’t think the hotel lobby shop would last the year. Instead, his extraordinary eye for beauty led him to establish working relationships with the top hundred international designers, some of whom had designed for European Royalty. Soon Carrazza was home to the finest collection of 18 karat gold and platinum jewelry, diamonds and gemstones in the world, as well as unique luxury watches.

Suhyda designs with love and passion, contrary to most jewelers who create with a retail price in mind. In order to share this vision with clients, he might lower the price for them, but never the quality.

In the 36 years since Carrazza opened its doors, it has expanded 3 times, the last featuring Xcentrics, an extraordinary art gallery that offers exotic collectibles and rare types of memorabilia. The power of Ed Suhyda’s passion is evidenced by his devoted clientele, who fly in from all over the United States and Europe to add to their high-end collections. They say, “Once you discover Carrazza, there’s no turning back.”

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954.523.5237 CARRAZZAJEWELERS.COM

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Del Frisco’s Grille

Fort Lauderdale is notorious for its gorgeous skylines, impeccable weather, serene beaches and, most importantly, its abundance of mouthwatering dining establishments. New eateries of every cuisine seem to sporadically pop up at any given moment here in the 954—not that we’re complaining.

To find out which up-and-coming restaurants in Fort Lauderdale were among the most esteemed, we turned to our readers to make the call through an online poll answered by nearly 500 voters. From fast-casual eats to waterfront dining, here is your unrivaled dining guide to the best in town.

BEST N EW R E S TAURAN TS

BY KAYLA ZIADIE

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Del Frisco’s Grille

BEST SURF AND TURF Del Frisco’s Grille

BEST ASIAN ETARU

When you can’t choose between ordering a buttery lobster or a juicy steak, it can be a challenge finding a restaurant that has mastered both surf and turf. Luckily, Del Frisco’s Grille on Las Olas Boulevard makes it look easy. Situated in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale is a high-quality American dining experience.

“We always anticipated that our vibrant atmosphere and approachable bar and grill menu consisting of Del Frisco’s staples like fresh seafood and prime, hand-cut steaks were a perfect match for the lively Fort Lauderdale community,” says general manager Scott Kurzawinski.

From its signature cheesesteak egg rolls with sweet and spicy chili sauce and honey mustard, to artichoke beignets with fontina cheese, Parmesan and sweet basil dressing, Del Frisco’s shareable appetizers are must-tries. Pair the restaurant’s filet mignon or pan-seared scallops with one of 100 wines rated 90 points or more. Not sure which wine to pick?

No worries; ask for assistance by inhouse sommeliers who aim to pair the wine best-suited for your meal.

Contemporary Japanese cuisine, fine dining and downtown views create an unmatched dining experience that can be found at ETARU Las Olas. The upscale eatery’s indoor and outdoor seating revolves around its robata grill—one of Japan’s oldest cooking methods— and is a historical contrast to the restaurant’s modern light wood and stone theme.

“With the opening of ETARU Las Olas in June 2018, we felt that we were bringing something new to

the dining scene in downtown Fort Lauderdale,” says chef Luca Spiga.

“With small plates perfect for sharing, we’ve been able to introduce our signature robatayaki cuisine to diners, alongside our raw menu.”

Stop by for ETARU’s exceptional Sunday brunch. For $55, you’ll be greeted with your cocktail of choice, bottomless Whispering Angel wine and a plethora of raw bar options and robata dishes, all followed by a main course dish and a special dessert platter for your table. If you’re feeling extravagant, upgrade to Louis Roederer NV Champagne for $20.

500 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954.477.8068; etarurestaurant.us

BEST BAR Township FTL Whether you’re having a girls night out, watching your favorite sport or needing a great drink with better people, Township is the place to go. The upbeat atmosphere and unbeatable prices attract patrons for delectable

Township FTL

501 E. Las Olas Blvd., Ste. 150, Fort Lauderdale; 754.312.3235; delfriscosgrille.com

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brews and bites. With sister restaurants, including the popular YOLO, TRP Taste, Boatyard and Rooftop @1WLO, it’s no surprise Township has garnered so much attention.

“Township has a great beverage business, but we’ve also put a lot of pride in our food menu,” says Peter Boulukos, executive chef and cofounder of The Restaurant People.

“We are [a] from-scratch kitchen with a wide variety of menu offerings, so whether you’re coming in on a lunch break, for a sporting event or dinner, there’s really something to please everyone.”

Choose from a vast selection of imported and domestic beers from Township’s 72 taps, with brews from Stella Artois and Funky Buddha to Harpoon and Barrel of Monks. And if you’re feeling adventurous, sip on the bar’s beer cocktails, like the Gaarden Gala (Svedka vodka, peach, citrus and Hoegaarden beer), or Rosetta Storm (Havana Club rum, ginger beer and Rosetta beer).

and Grind’s coffee shake, made with a double shot of its house-blend espresso, vanilla extract, almond milk and espresso beans. For lunch, snag a grilled steak and cheese sandwich, made with grilled-toorder Julien-cut marinated skirt steak, marinated onions, fresh arugula, melted Gruyère cheese and horseradish-flavored cheese spread all on a freshly baked baguette.

474 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale; 954.909.5316; pressandgrindcafe.com

Press and Grind Café

Vale Food Co.

219 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954.338.4070; townshipftl.com

BEST COFFEE Press and Grind Café Caffeine during a busy work week keeps the city of Fort Lauderdale going. Sure, you can grab a cup of brew at Starbucks, but locals’ favorite new place for a caffeinated beverage is Press and Grind Café.

Not only does it offer high-quality, single-origin espresso and coffee drinks, but also freshly pressed juices, organic smoothies, açaí bowls and fresh sandwiches, salads and wraps. Press and Grind also sells locally roasted coffee from places like Argyle Coffee and Bingo Coffee.

“I wanted to offer something that I hadn’t really seen before in South Florida; a place where everyone could gather, get a smoothie or a really good cup of coffee and grab a bite to eat, and not [have] to settle for prepackaged foods,” says owner Joe Sloboda. “We make all of our dishes fresh to order, and just about everything is made from scratch, other than a variety of fresh pastries that are delivered from local bakeries each morning.”

Start your day off with Press

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B E S T F A S T- C A S U A L Vale Food Co. Envision the lovechild of Whole Foods and Chipotle, and you have something like the creation of Vale Food Co. One of South Florida’s fastest growing quick-service healthy eateries, it’s no surprise Vale triumphed as Fort Lauderdale’s best fast-casual restaurant. With locations in Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Gainesville and Tampa, Vale’s build-your-own-bowl concept has quickly found its home in South Florida.

“I’m confident that Vale Food Co. won best fast-casual restaurant because our guests know the value we have added to the Fort Lauderdale community,” says Sunny Ilyas, CEO and founder of Vale. “I’m honored to achieve this traction in the short amount of time being open, but the credit goes to our motivated team raising the bar and producing high-quality food and service daily.”

From its savory poke bowls to fruity açaí bowls, Vale proves that eating fresh doesn’t have to take up all of your time. For a quick and filling lunch, get the regular bowl with brown rice, roasted sweet potatoes, roasted broccoli, ancho pulled chicken, avocado Caesar sauce and feta cheese.

420 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale; 954.681.9119; valefoodco.com

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The Balcony

The Hummus House It can be pretty easy to miss The Hummus House if you’re not on the lookout. Fort Lauderdale locals consider this Israeli hot spot, located in Victoria Park where Eat the Tea once resided, to be a hidden gem for its entirely meatless menu and, of course, freshly made hummus.

“We proudly prepare all our food from scratch with the freshest ingredients and make sure we preserve the authentic flavors in every dish,” says Muli Shalmi, a chef at The Hummus House. “Our meatless twist on popular Middle Eastern eats is what makes us unique.”

Try the meatless shawarma pita made with hummus and grilled “chicken” shawarma to fool your taste buds into thinking you’re eating the real thing. Wash it down with a frozen limonana, an Israeli take on a lemonade slushie.

900 NE 20th Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954.314.7686; thehummushouseftl.com

The Hummus House

Sometimes, the best place to go straight after work isn’t the comfort of your own home, but the nearest happy hour. With a seemingly never-ending list of specials in South Florida, it doesn’t get better than The Balcony. Mardi Gras is a daily festivity at this two-story, New Orleans-themed Fort Lauderdale restaurant, and its happy hour deals are hard to beat. From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, enjoy your favorite brews and tapas-style bites for half-off; on Hump Day Wednesdays, happy hour starts around lunchtime and lasts all day long, from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“At The Balcony, we love our happy hour crowd,” says chef Simon Porter. “Our unique, New Orleans-inspired bar bites and cocktails allow guests to change things up from a traditional happy hour menu.”

Make full use of the $1 raw bar during happy hour, or dig into The Balcony’s other seafood specials, like its Allen Bay ceviche, jumbo lump blue crab salad or the Caddo Parish colossal shrimp cocktail. Even when happy hour is over, keep the party going at the second-story open-air bar with craft cocktails and a live DJ. 1309 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 754.200.6344; thebalconylasolas.com

The Balcony

B E S T I TA L I A N Tuscan Prime It’s astounding this restaurant would win its category; simply because it hadn’t opened before our online poll took place. With an expected opening this month, anticipation brought Tuscan Prime its win. To experience beloved Italian culture without leaving the area code, Tuscan Prime should be next on your restaurant list.

Located in the former Grille 401 space, the Las Olas establishment’s elegant decor and warm ambience will be the perfect complement to its prime steaks, bona fide Italian dishes and specially crafted wine list.

“Bringing the best authentic recipes from our home in Naples paired with superb service is our recipe for success,” says Michele DiMeo of Monte Restaurant Development, the group responsible for Tuscan Prime.

Celebrate special occasions with cocktails under the olive tree in the lounge, or enjoy views of Las Olas by dining on the outside patio during a romantic date night or relaxing evening with friends.

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401 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954.767.0222; tuscanprime.com

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El Camino

BEST MEXICAN El Camino Two things we know for a fact are 1) Taco Tuesdays make the world a better (and tastier) place, and 2) El Camino has one of the most authentic Mexican food experiences around.

Translating directly to “the path,” El Camino will pave the way to satisfying any and all perpetual margarita and enchilada cravings through its urban art-inspired eatery.

“I believe what makes El Camino what it is is the passion and love we put into what we do,” says executive chef Victor Meneses. “In the El Camino kitchen we put love and passion into our food. We really welcome our guests—it’s the culture. Every guest who comes to El Camino is coming to my house.”

Meneses is from Mexico but trained in French culinary, so he takes his learned techniques and mixes them with Mexican ingredients.

From quesadillas and enchiladas to tacos and burritos, any south-ofthe-border staple can be found at El Camino. Don’t forget the three superior add-ons to its $2 taco Tuesday deal: hand-crafted margaritas, craft beers and a curated selection of more than 400 various tequilas. With its energetic vibe and homestyle meals, there’s no surprise El Camino has become a Fort Lauderdale front-runner in less than a year of existence.

817 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954.530.1188; elcaminoftlauderdale.com

Boathouse at the Riverside

1 2 3 D AT U R A B A R & K I T C H EN With New York City roots, 123 Datura provides downtown West Palm Beach with an upscale but laid-back, friendly neighborhood bar, perfect for enjoying creative cocktails, everrotating local draft beers and delicious grandma-style pizza with locally sourced ingredients. “123 Datura is a bar where you can come to with your friends to watch a game, with your family to enjoy an incredible pizza paired with delicious cocktails and even a first date to enjoy a nice bottle from our amazing wine list,” says bar manager Reed Ferguson. Make sure to stop by during happy hour or the “After Brunch” party on Sundays with drink specials and local DJs. 123 Datura Bar & Kitchen, 123 Datura St., West Palm Beach;

B E S T WAT E R F R O N T Boathouse at the Riverside The luxury of being able to enjoy a delicious meal with a glorious waterfront view draws visitors and transplants to Fort Lauderdale from far and wide. At Boathouse at the Riverside Hotel, those seeking dockside dining can experience high-end American fare in a laidback environment with beautiful riverside views.

“We love what we do and strive to offer the best-tasting, [best] quality food while providing exceptional service, and you can’t beat the view,” says Jaime Figueroa, Riverside Hotel general manager.

Boathouse offers a variety of refreshing cocktails, wines and beers that pair amazingly with its brunch boards, which vary from avocado “toast” pizza to its eponymous Boathouse frittata (confit marble potatoes, heirloom cherry tomatoes, spinach, Emmental, tapenade, brioche toast). Stop by on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for bottomless mimosas and bloody marys for $20.

620 SE Fourth St., Fort Lauderdale; 954.377.5494; boathouseriverside.com

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TA S T E

Ocotpus a la Plancha

DUNE at Auberge Beach Swish a glass of red from Napa Valley while taking in oceanfront views.

By Alyssa Morlacci

A

crisp white interior is interrupted by shades of green from potted succulents displayed along bookshelves. Waiters swarm to drape napkins across the laps of guests and suggest locally sourced dishes to pair with fine wines.

DUNE at Auberge Beach opened along north Fort Lauderdale beach in late 2018 as part of the Auberge Resort Collection, a company that originates from Napa Valley—hence the restaurant’s impressive wine offerings. The hospitality brand expanded from its Michelin-starred Auberge du Soleil concept in California to Aspen, Fiji, Mexico and now, South Florida.

The Auberge Beach residences and spa, which cradle the restaurant, broke ground in Fort Lauderdale back in 2015. The property quickly secured prominent buyers including Miami Dolphins legend Dan Marino, and it made a Broward County record for the most expensive condo transaction at $8.9 million.

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Of course, the property owners and locals alike would need a space to dine. Enter DUNE, a bar and restaurant with beachfront views and cuisine prepped by executive chef Edgar Beas.

Auberge Appetite Make a reservation with the friend who doesn’t mind sharing—it’s the best way to experience a menu rich in land and sea offerings. The Yellowfin Tuna Crudo is a colorful dish of pomelo, mango and avocado drizzled with a mustard oil; the Grouper Ceviche bathes in leche de tigre and is garnished with a plantain chip; and the Octopus a la Plancha sits on a bed of sofrito, patatas bravas and green onion.

The menu is friendly to gluten, dairy, nut, shellfish and soy dietary restrictions, and it includes options for vegans.

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Sand Reed and 24th Mile cocktails

That’s the Spirit Nearly 50 percent of the wine selection at DUNE comes from Napa Valley and then expands its reach to other prized wine regions such as Mendoza and Tuscany. Sommelier Zachary Dortenzio says that when it comes to pairing, he suggests a Blanc de Blanc from Schramsberg for enjoying lighter dishes. And to wash down dessert, he opts for the late harvest Riesling from Bee Hunter Winery.

“This wine has beautiful notes of honey roasted hazelnuts, ripe apricot and a long floral finish, making it the perfect selection for decadent desserts,” he says.

Pastries on Par Executive pastry chef Audrey Scheib knows guests will eat with their eyes first. She also meets the challenge of following up a savory meal with equally tasty and elevated desserts. Her Coconut Pudding of strawberry granita, Marcona crumble and passion fruit arrives looking like art, while the Key Lime Pie Pop of meringue and graham cracker crumble conjures childhood memories. Scheib also offers gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free options so there’s no reason to skip the sweets.

Seared scallops

DUNE at Auberge Beach, 2200 N. Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale / 754.900.4059 / dunefl.com

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Dining Guide KEY $ < $15 $$

1555 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.525.7400 Boatyard.Restaurant $$ L D H

H

$15-25

$$$ > $25 B

Boatyard

BREAKFAST

Br BRUNCH

VEGAN FRIENDLY

Enjoy the waterfront view of passing boats while feasting on fresh seafood at Boatyard restaurant (an upgraded, upscale-casual version of the former Bimini Boatyard Bar & Grill).

ENTERTAINMENT

Bistro Mezzaluna 1821 SE 10th Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954.522.9191 BistroMezzaluna.com

HAPPY HOUR WINE/BEER ONLY FULL BAR

L

LUNCH

WATERFRONT

D

DINNER

Special Advertising Section

FORT LAUDERDALE 15th Street Fisheries & Dockside Cafe 1900 SE 15th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.763.2777 15StreetFisheries.com $$ L D H

15th Street Fisheries is a sea lover’s paradise located right on the Intracoastal.

5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill 1111 N. Ocean Drive Hollywood 954.874.4474 margaritavilleholly woodbeachresort.com $$ L D H

This rustic indooroutdoor dockside bar located on the Intracoastal serves bar bites, drinks and live entertainment with breathtaking sunsets as an added bonus.

American Social 721 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.764.7005 AmericanSocialBar.com $$ Br L D H

American Social specializes in craft beers and All-American cuisine.

Atlas Cocktail Lounge 551 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.414.5100 conradfort lauderdale.com $$ D H

With a globally-inspired menu, Atlas Cocktail Lounge offers lite bites, beer, wine and hand-crafted cocktails prepared by a team of mixologists.

Big City Tavern 609 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.727.0307 BigCityLasOlas.com $$ Br L D H

Like its name, Big City Tavern is a big, classy American restaurant with an expansive bar and menu boatings American steaks, burgers, fresh seafood, pastas and salads.

Billy’s Stone Crab 400 N. Ocean Drive Hollywood 954.923.2300 Crabs.com $$$ L D H

Enjoy lunch or a sunset dinner with floorto-ceiling windows overlooking the Intracoastal.

$$$ L D H

Delicious Italian offerings include the seafood sampler, veal chop and the award-winning wine list.

Blue Martini The Galleria Mall 2432 E. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.653.2583 BlueMartiniLounge.com $$ L D H

Blue Martini invites you to enjoy live entertainment while enjoying the tapas food menu, the perfect complements to its fine wine and spirits selection.

Blue Plate 1 Seminole Way Hollywood 954.327.7625 SeminoleHardRock Hollywood.com $$ Br D H

Modern-American classic recipes and eclectic new twists on tried-and-true favorites hit a high note at Blue Plate Restaurant, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s 24/7 diner.

Bravo Ristorante 1515 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.523.9441 BravoItaliano.com $$ L D

Bravo Italiano has a large menu offering a selection of pastas and other entrees.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. 429 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.463.0777 BubbaGump.com $$ L D H

Boasting movie memorabilia from “Forrest Gump,” this casual restaurant serves everything from fresh fish to slow-roasted ribs.

Burlock Coast Seafare & Spirits The Ritz Carlton 1 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.302.6460 RitzCarlton.com $ B

Offering modern-coastal fare with a distinctly local undercurrent, Burlock Coast is an innovative restaurantcafé-market-bar that channels the creativity of Prohibition era rum runners.

Café Vico 1125 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.565.9681 CafeVico Restaurant.com $$ L D H

Owner Marco Vico Rodrigues knows how to welcome his guests, and there’s no better way than with his kind smile and to-die-for pasta.

Caffé Europa Trattoria 910 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.763.6600 CaffeEuropaLasOlas.com $$$ L D H

Caffé Europa offers an Italian-inspired menu perfect for lunch or dinner.

California Pizza Kitchen 2301 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.565.1196 CPK.com $$ L D H

California Pizza Kitchen

offers innovative and authentic California-style cuisine at a casual environment.

Cantina Laredo 501 Silks Run Road Hallandale Beach 954.457.7662 CantinaLaredo.com $$ Br L D H

Cantina Laredo serves authentic Mexican dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Canyon 1818 E. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.765.1950 CanyonFL.com $$$ D H

For that perfect blend of Southwest, Asian and South American cuisines, dine at Canyon and try the famous prickly pear margarita, shrimp tostada, tuna tartare, and white chocolate bread pudding.

The Capital Grille 2430 E. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.446.2000 TheCapitalGrille.com $$$ L D H

The Capital Grille offers fabulous dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood and wine off of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence’s wine list.

Carlos & Pepe’s 1302 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.467.8335 CarlosAndPepesFL.com $$ D H

This traditional MexicanAmerican restaurant with a warm tone has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1979.

Casablanca Cafe 3049 Alhambra St. Fort Lauderdale 954.764.3500 CasablancaCafe Online.com $$$ L D H

A cozy restaurant with an Arabian Nights feel, Casablanca serves

a variety of cuisines ranging from Moroccan to Japanese, Italian and Cuban.

Casa D’Angelo 1201 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.564.1234 Casa-D-Angelo.com $$$ D H

An award-winning fine dining restaurant owned and operated by Chef Angelo Elia, Casa D’Angelo has become one of South Florida’s staple Italian restaurants.

The Cheesecake Factory 600 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.463.1999 Cheesecake Factory.com $$ L D H

Find an extensive menu with more than 200 selections from pastas, seafood, steaks, salads, sandwiches and lots of cheesecake options.

Chef’s Palette Café and Grill 1650 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.760.7957 $$ L

The Chef’s Palette Café and Grill is The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale’s student-run restaurant and serves as the dining lab for students in the culinary program.

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse 2400 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.712.0580 chimasteakhouse.com $$$ D

Fountains and flamebearing lamps decorate the entrance to this charming place.

Christina Wan’s Mandarin House 664 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale $ < $15

$$ $15-25 $$$ > $25

954.527.0228 ChristinaWans.com

conradfortlauderdale. com

$$ L D

$$ B L D

Christina serves the Chinese staples along with unorthodox dishes, and sunset specials with feasible rates.

Cornucopia Gourmet Market serves epicurean delights such as organic squeezed juices

by Juicera, handcrafted espresso drinks, wood-fired pizzas, and artisanal pastries from Zak the Baker.

Coastal Atlantic Hotel & Spa 601 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.567.8070 eatcoastal.com $$ B Br L D H

Coastal, the new flagship restaurant at The Atlantic Hotel & Spa, presents Italian-inspired cuisine with oceanfront views. The restaurant serves daily breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Coco Asian Bistro & Bar Harbor Shops (off 17th St.) 1841 Cordova Road Fort Lauderdale 954.525.3541 CocoAsianBistro.com $$$ L D H

The restaurant serves mouthwatering and authentic Thai dishes, along with a sublime array of sushi, sashimi and specialty rolls.

Council Oak Steaks & Seafood 1 Seminole Way Hollywood 954.327.7625 SeminoleHardRock Hollywood.com $$$ D H

The award-winning Council Oak Steaks & Seafood delivers a sophisticated fine-dining experience for 100-percent USDA prime dryaged stockyard beef, Cabassi Wagyu beef and fresh seafood.

D’Angelo Pizza & Tapas

4215 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.561.7300 AngeloeliaPizza.com $$ L D H

D’Angelo’s has a menu featuring tapas, smaller portions of familiar Italian favorites and cheese plates.

Eduardo De San Angel

lamb, beef, chicken and vegetarian dishes with with belly-dancing performances happening every Saturday.

Floridian Restaurant 1410 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.463.4041 $$ B L D H

Like the name suggests, this one’s a classic Florida diner offering a huge menu with breakfast being a big hit with the locals.

The Foxy Brown 723 E. Broward Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 754.200.4236 MyFoxyBrown.com $$ Br L D H

Offering new American cuisine at its finest, Foxy Brown has a neighborhood-like feel with a big city taste.

Fresh First 1637 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.763.3344 FreshFirst.com $ B L

Dine out 100% gluten free at this restaurant that doesn’t use corn, peanut oil or GMOs.

Funky Buddha Brewery Craft Food Counter & Kitchen

2724 E. Commercial Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 754.265.7116

1201 NE 38th St. Oakland Park 954.440.0046 FunkyBuddha Brewery.com

$$$ D H

$$$ D H

Coco Pazzo introduces South Florida to a full range of flavors found in several regions of Italy. Peruse our unique menu; featuring- fresh fish, veal & chefs daily specials.

A haute dining destination with inspired creations of unexpected eclectic Mexican-infused International fare.

South Florida’s largest craft brewery now has its own in-house kitchen where it serves locally sourced, madefrom-scratch grub right inside the brewery’s busy tap room.

Cornucopia Gourmet Market 551 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.414.5100 B BREAKFAST Br BRUNCH

Ferdo’s Grill 4300 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.492.5552 ferdos-grill.jimdosite. com $$ L D H

Ferdo’s Grill offers

$ B L D

With free Wi-Fi, couches, tall-backed booths, three satellite screens and a small bookstore, Global Grille is a perfect low-key spot.

Good Spirits 476 N Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.523.2580 goodspiritsrestaurant. com $$$ L D H

Enjoy beautifully plated creations served in a mid-century designed space in Victoria Park.

3300 N. Ocean Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.565.5505 GreekIslands Taverna.com $$ L D H

This restaurant serves all the staples of a Greek diet such as lamb chops and ribs, tzaziki, octopus and hummus.

1075 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.533.7507 GreenBarKitchen.com

Georgia Pig BBQ Restaurant 1285 S. State Road 7 Fort Lauderdale 954.587.4420 georgiapig.com $ B L D

WINE/ BEER

301 E. Broward Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.712.1573

Green Bar Kitchen

$ L D

H HAPPY HOUR Special Advertising Section

L LUNCH D DINNER

Global Grille

Greek Islands Taverna

2822 E. Commercial Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.772.4731 EduardoDe SanAngel.com

Coco Pazzo

Celebrating more than 60 years of family run barbecue in South Florida, the Georgia Pig offers a genuine open pit barbecue and fresh daily specials.

FULL BAR

$$ L D

Green Bar & Kitchen embodies the concept of vibrant, plant-based, wholesome eating.

Grille 401 401 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.767.0222 Grille401.com $$$ L D H

Grille 401 is a trendy and comfortable dining option for lunch, happy VEGAN FRIENDLY

ENTERTAINMENT WATERFRONT

Indigo Restaurant 620 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.467.0045

“

$$ B L D H

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.

“ VIRGINIA WOOLF

hour, dinner or late night bites on Las Olas.

The Historic Downtowner

Grille 66 & Bar

10 S. New River Dr. E. Fort Lauderdale 954.463.9800 TheHistoric Downtowner.com

2301 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.728.3500 Grille66AndBar.com $$$ D H

Enjoy prime aged steaks, seasonal fish and seafood exquisitely prepared with superb presentation.

Hard Rock Cafe

1 Seminole Way Hollywood 954.315.9112 SeminoleHardRock Hollywood.com $$ L D H

$$ L D H

If you love watching sports with drinks accompanied by chicken wings and a variety of sauces, then make your way to this restaurant.

H2O Café

101 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.414.1024 H2Ocafe.net $$$ L D H

For fans of music, food and good times, Hard Rock is the go-to that delivers authentic American-diner inspired cuisine wrapped in a musical experience.

At this historically renovated beachside art deco café, enjoy modern Italian cuisine with Cuban pizza.

Himmarshee Public House 201 SW Second St. Fort Lauderdale 954.616.5275 PublicHouseFtL.com

Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort 505 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.414.2222 Hilton.com

$$ Br L D H

$$$ B L D

Global comfort fare and innovative cocktails are served in this sportsbar-meets-urban-pub atmosphere.

Located on the sixth floor of the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, this restaurant offers a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean.

$ < $15

$$ $15-25 $$$ > $25

Ilios

B BREAKFAST Br BRUNCH

cheese, apple and cinnamon, and fruit and crème anglaise, you’ll feel a bit like you’re in Paris.

Indigo Restaurant provides excellent service and affordable prices to match its impressive menu of deliciously fresh seafood, savory steaks, light bites and more.

Lobster Bar Sea Grille

J. Mark’s

Set in the iconic space that once housed Jackson’s Steakhouse, this modern seafood restaurant has brought the famous Las Olas address into the 21st century.

1245 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.390.0770 JMarksRestaurant.com $$ L D H

This restaurant has a casual décor and serves American cuisine like prime rib, burgers and special Maryland crab cakes.

Kuro 1 Seminole Way Hollwood 954.327.7625 SeminoleHardRock Hollywood.com $$$ D H

Kuro at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is a new-style Japanese concept that features handcrafted dishes applying classic Japanese techniques to craft contemporary, artisanal creations using both locally sourced and imported ingredients.

La Bamba III 4245 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.568.5662 LaBamba123.com $$ L D H

Experience a local favorite for Mexican and Spanish cuisine at affordable prices.

La Bonne Crepe 815 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.761.1515 LaBonneCrepe.com

450 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.772.2675 BuckHead Restaurants.com $$$ L D H

Mai-Kai 3599 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.563.3272 MaiKai.com $$$ D H

The Mai-Kai brings Polynesia to you, complete with tropical gardens, flaming torches, lush foliage, giant tikis and waterfalls.

Mario’s Catalina Restaurant 1611 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.563.4141 $$$ L D H

Romantic ambiance invites you to this OldWorld Cuban homestyle restaurant, with a bar and table seating.

Marti’s New River Bistro 201 SW Fifth Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954.660.6333 BrowardCenter.org $$ Br D

Located waterfront at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Marti’s New River Bistro offers modern American cuisine for theater patrons.

$$ B L D

Mojo

With more than 50 crepes to choose from, including ham and

4140 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.568.4443

H HAPPY HOUR Special Advertising Section

L LUNCH D DINNER

WINE/ BEER

FULL BAR

MojoFL.com $$$ D H

Enjoy dinner and art at Fort Lauderdale’s 4-star rated restaurant serving an eclectic mix of organic grains, free-range chicken, organic salmon and the finest meats.

Il Mulino Cucina Italiana 1800 E. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.524.1800 IlMulinoFL.com $$ L D

Find traditional Italian cuisine in a casual atmosphere and try the garlic rolls and stuffedbread original recipes.

Naked Crab 1140 Seabreeze Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.564.1000 NakedCrabFL.com $$$ B L D H

Locals and visitors can relish all things surf or turf, pairing the finest prime steaks with the freshest seafood and highest quality ingredients in a picturesque, beachside setting.

Noodles Panini 821 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.462.1514 NoodlesPanini.com $$ L D H

For casual dining, head to Noodles Panini for fresh European sandwiches, pastas, salads and homemade desserts.

Ocean 2000 Pelican Grand Beach Resort 2000 N. Ocean Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.556.7667 PelicanBeach.com $$$ B Br L D

This restaurant devotes itself to the fine combination of great mixology and superior regional cooking.

VEGAN FRIENDLY

ENTERTAINMENT WATERFRONT

Hyatt Regency Pier 66 2301 SE 17th St. Fort Lauderdale 954.909.2147 Pelican-Landing.com $$ L D H

Pelican Landing lures patrons with its enhanced décor, a menu that brings new flavor to old favorites, satiating drink specials and unprecedented views of the Intracoastal.

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro 2418 E. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.565.5877 PFChangs.com $$$ L D

Enjoy a fusion of exquisite Chinese cuisine set in an upscale dining area.

Pirate Republic Seafood & Grill 400 SW Third Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954.761.3500 PirateRepublicBar.com $$$ L D H

Situated on New River in Downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Historic District, Pirate Republic serves an incredible menu of original seafood dishes along with an array of eclectic tropical cocktails.

Pizza Craft 330 Himmarshee St. Fort Lauderdale 954.616.8028 pizzacraftpizzeria.com $$ L D H

This neighborhood pizzeria features wood burning masterpieces of “00” flour, imported tomatoes, homemade mozzarella and local and seasonal produce.

Rainforest Café 12801 W. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.851.1015 RainforestCafe.com

An exotic-themed restaurant, Rainforest Cafe has huge fish tanks and periodic “thunderstorms” with flashes of lightning.

ROK:BRGR

Red Cow

ROK:BRGR’s gourmet burgers pack a serious punch, made with certified Black Angus beef and creative toppings.

1025 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.652.1524 RedCowFtL.com $$ L D H

Be Nice restaurant group, which also owns Coconuts and G&B Oyster Bar, opened this local barbecue spot.

Redlands Grill by J. Alexander’s 2415 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.563.9077 JAlexanders.com $$ L D H

J. Alexander’s offers a wide selection of American classics including prime rib of beef, steaks, fresh seafood, sandwiches and salads.

Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar 1313 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.524.9550 RoccosTacos.com $$ Br L D

Now with multiple Rocco’s Tacos opened in South Florida, the great flavors infused with the fun vibe make this no ordinary dinner or lunch outing.

Rock Bar 219 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.533.1568 itsbetteronthebeach. com/rock-bar $$ Br L D H

Rock Bar has an amazing view overlooking the beach. With its wide selection of hookah flavors, guests can relax and grab a bite with friends.

$$ L D

$ < $15

$$ $15-25 $$$ > $25

208 SW Second St. Fort Lauderdale 954.525.7656 RokBrgr.com

If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.

The Royal Pig Pub & Kitchen 350 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.617.7447 RoyalPigPub.com

J.R.R. TOLKIEN

$$$ L D H

With a name like The Royal Pig, it’s no surprise that many of the dishes have bacon or pork in some form, yet there are many seafood plates on the menu as well, like the Sesame Seared Ahi Tuna appetizer.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House 2525 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.565.2338 RuthsChris.com $$$ L D H

For a romantic date or a business lunch, this place has amazing steak choices and an impressive European wine list.

Scolapasta Bistro 3358 NE 33rd Street Fort Lauderdale 954.652.1185 ScolapastaBistro.com $$ D

Farm to table Italian Bistro, using only organic vegetables, grass-fed beef, freerange poultry, and heirloom organic flour in home made pasta.

Sea Level Restaurant & Ocean Bar 3030 Holiday Drive Fort Lauderdale 954.765.3041 SeaLevelHarbor Beach.com $$ L D

B BREAKFAST Br BRUNCH

“

$ L D H

“

Pelican Landing

Sea Level offers a view of the beach, a serene setting and original seafood dishes.

offers generous appetizers, delectable entrées and desserts, and a wide range of pasta, seafood and meats.

Seasons 52

Shooters Waterfront

2428 E. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.537.1052 Seasons52.com $$ L D H

$$ Br L D H

Healthy but delicious, all seasonal meals at this grill and wine bar have less than 500 calories in portionappropriate sizes.

Shooters Waterfront delivers superb food, service and spectacular views of the Intracoastal.

Serafina Trattoria Italiana

650 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.462.0088 Shuck-N-Dive.com

926 NE 20th Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954.463.2566 SeraByTheWater.com $$ L D

A quiet place overlooking the Middle River Waterway, Serafina Trattoria is an authentic Italian restaurant both in terms of food and ambiance.

Sette Bello 6241 N. Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale 954.351.0505 SetteBelloFla.com $$$ L D

For that authentic Italian dining experience, settle into a seat at Sette Bello where the menu

H HAPPY HOUR Special Advertising Section

L LUNCH D DINNER

3033 NE 32nd Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954.566.2855 ShootersWaterfront.com

WINE/ BEER

FULL BAR

Shuck-N-Dive

$$ Br L D

Experience a Mardi Gras atmosphere in this restaurant that serves great Cajun and Creole cuisine.

Spinnaker Pool Grill 551 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.414.5100 conradfort lauderdale.com $$ L D

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from the resort’s Sky Deck, Spinnaker Pool Grill offers Mediterranean shared plates and refreshing popsicles for a poolside lunch.

VEGAN FRIENDLY

ENTERTAINMENT WATERFRONT

house offers a sophisticated club-like ambiance with an elegant bar and lounge.

“

You can’t just eat good food.

You’ve got to talk about it too.

And you’ve got to talk about it to somebody who understands that kind of food.

“

KURT VONNEGUT

Timpano Italian Chophouse 450 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Suite 110 Fort Lauderdale 954.462.9119

TimpanoChophouse.net $$$ L D H

You’ll find great steaks, chops and pastas at this fine Italian restaurant with a dimly lit lounge and Sinatra martini bar.

Tower Club Steak 954 W Hotel 401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.414.8333 Starr-Restaurant.com/ steak954.com $$$ B Br L D

Perhaps the only thing better than the succulent steak at Steak 954 is the décor, including a stunning fish tank filled with jellyfish along with a view of the ocean.

S3 Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort 505 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.523.7873 S3Restaurant.com $$ B L D H

S3, where sun, surf and sand fuse with steak, seafood and sushi for a perfect combination of island atmosphere and globally influenced, sea-inspired fare.

Tap 42 1411 S. Andrews Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954.463.4900 Tap42.com $$$ L D H

Tap 42 is Fort Lauderdale’s new destination for the finest selection $ < $15

$$ $15-25 $$$ > $25

of craft/micro beers, bourbons and burgers paired with live jazz, blues and reggae.

Thai Spice 1514 E. Commercial Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.771.4535 ThaiSpiceFla.com $$$ L D H

Exotic Thai, fresh seafood, prime steaks. No tour of South Florida’s finest restaurants would be complete without experiencing the award-winning cuisine found at Thai Spice.

3030 Ocean Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa 3030 Holiday Drive Fort Lauderdale 954.765.3030 3030ocean.com $$$ D H

A Fort Lauderdale gem, 3030 offers inventive farm-to-table fare, featuring local favorites from both land and sea.

III Forks Prime Steakhouse 501 Silks Run Ste.1130 Hallandale 954.457.3920 3Forks.com $$$ D

III Forks Prime SteakB BREAKFAST Br BRUNCH

100 SE Third Ave. Fort Lauderdale 954.764.8550 ClubCorp.com/Clubs/ Tower-Club-FtLauderdale $$$ B L D

If you want a panoramic view of downtown Fort Lauderdale, then dine at this private club located on top of the Regions bank building.

Truluck’s 2584 E. Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.396.5656 Trulucks.com $$$ D H

The dining experience at Truluck’s matches the high-end atmosphere and sophisticated style.

Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille 620 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.467.2555 WildSeaLasOlas.com $$ L D H

Located in the nostalgic Riverside Hotel, Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille treats Fort Lauderdale locals and hotel guests to imaginative and exceptionally fresh cuisine every day.

954.523.1000 YOLOrestaurant.com $$ Br L D H

YOLO is the ultimate triad in dining: a restaurant, lounge and outside patio area (accented with a fire pit courtyard).

LAUDERDALE-BYTHE-SEA

Aruba Beach Café 1 Commercial Blvd.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea 954.776.0001 ArubaBeachCafe.com $$ L D H

With a view of the ocean and pier, Aruba Beach Café offers a mix of American and Caribbean cuisines with a side of live music.

Blue Moon Fish Co. 4405 W. Tradewinds Ave. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea 954.267.9888 BlueMoonFishCo.com $$$ Br L D

Enjoy the Intracoastal view outdoors or move indoors for a candlelit experience, underwater thematic decor and privacy.

Sea Watch on the Ocean

WILTON MANORS

The Alchemist 2430 NE 13th Ave. Wilton Manors 954.673.4614 TheAlchemist.cafe $$ B L D

Enjoy sipping signature roasted coffees and custom blended teas while nestling into tranquil gardens within a gated artists community.

Rosie’s Bar & Grill 2449 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors 954.563.0123 RosiesBng.com $$ L D H

If you love pairing burgers with a chilled beer, this hip restaurant is for you.

Stork’s Café and Bakery 2505 NE 15th Ave. Wilton Manors 954.567.3220 StorksBakery.com $$ B L D

Right in the heart of Wilton Manors is this coffee house plus bakery—an ideal place for those with a sweet tooth.

6002 N. Ocean Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale 954.781.2200 SeaWatchOnThe Ocean.com $$ L D H

For more than 40 years, spectacular ocean views have complemented the intimate ambiance and delectable seafood cuisine at this special dining place.

Yolo 333 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale H HAPPY HOUR Special Advertising Section

L LUNCH D DINNER

WINE/ BEER

FULL BAR

VEGAN FRIENDLY

ENTERTAINMENT WATERFRONT

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F L O R I DA HOM E & G A R D E N L AU N C H PA RT Y THE CAUSE: To celebrate the inaugural issue of sister publication Florida Home & Garden, staff and supporters gathered at Oceans 234 to enjoyed cocktails, bites and networking.

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1. Debra Somerville and Olga Adler 2. Diego Ruiz, Oscar Ruiz and Julian Ruiz 3. Mary Owens, Trish Beaudet and Dawn Burke 4. Lewis Reif, Lisa Fletcher and Andy Fischman 5. Nicole Ruth and Lesley Marlo 6. Yvette Michele, Ossama Salem, Wendy Beckerman, Perla Lichi, Ariel Chen, Barbara Chen-Hemmings and Marlene Boney 7. Jason Miller, Whitney Guidry, Susan Lachance, Corey Beberman and Lauren Mahrer 8. Ryan Dougall and Alyssa Morlacci

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THE EVENT:

S T. J U D E P O P- U P D I N N E R PA RT Y THE CAUSE: More than 120 supporters attended the inaugural St. Jude Pop-up Dinner Party at the W Fort Lauderdale.

The event benefited St. Jude families who have been affected by childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

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1. Anesh and Nyota Desai with Angela and Marc Tanner 2. Andrea and Luis Montanez 3. Virginia Sanchez and Faris Bushnaq 4. Camila Vanegas and Merlyn Mesa 5. Adriana and Marvin Minnis 6. Sofia Casanova with Julian and Tatiana Casanova 7. Carlos Patino and Claudia Vergara 8. Cristina and Juan Avendano

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N SU C E L E B R AT IO N O F E XC E L L E N C E THE CAUSE: Nova Southeastern University bestowed its 2019 Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award for Excellence in Community Service Award to Rita and Rick Case during its 21st annual Celebration of Excellence gala held inside the Rick Case Arena.

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1. Lorraine Thomas, Sharon Gustafson Florescue, Todd Stella and Diana Metcalf 2. Harry and Ann Marie Moon with LaDonna and Johannes Vieweg 3. Alan B. Levan, Rick and Rita Case and George Hanbury 4. Bonnie and Fred Lippman, Larry Kibler and Adolfo and Marisela Cotilla 5. Kenny Tate, Samuel Morrison, Sandy Tate, Nancy Mularkey and Scott Rassler 6. Guiliana Hirshson and Mary Short 7. Front: Lori Manly and Kaye Manly; Back: Bob and Gail Bulfin, Jennifer Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Flannery Anderson and Arlene Pecora 8. Elisabeth Wong, Michael Deek, Katelyn Lanciano, Alexandrea Reggiani and Neal Patel

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ArtServe spotlighted rising stars in South Florida’s art community during its annual juried fine art exhibition, ArtBRAVO. The event awarded a total of $1,250 in cash prizes.

Photos by ArtServe

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1. Kimberly Fried, Victoria White and Jeff Lowe 2. Maria Napoles, Sophie Bonet and Sergio de la Flora 3. Zipporah Michel and Sophie Bonet 4. Tammy Seymour, Susan Clifton and Wendy Nicholas 5. Tariq Creque and Jose Heredia 6. Corey Lovett and Sergio de la Flora 7. Hal Axler, Diane Lublinski and Patrick Harris 8. Jason Hughes and Karen Kinter

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T H E C L A S SIC R O C K & R O L L PA RT Y THE CAUSE: Business leaders and philanthropists rocked out for charity during the benefit held at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino with headliner KC & the Sunshine Band. The high-energy rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roll-themed charity event raised $380,000 for HomeSafe.

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1. Bob Sheetz and Debbie Lindstrom 2. Andy Trunk, Rosie and Brad Briggs and Laura Sylvester 3. Janessa and Steve Bernstein 4. Gary and Gwen Gottlieb 5. Ward Kellogg and Matt Ladika 6. Doug and Shawn Kirlin 7. Aggie Stoops, Nicko McBrain and Jeff Stoops 8. Nicko McBrain, Holly Black and K.C.

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1 0 0 L A S O L A S T O P P I N G O F F C E L E B R AT IO N THE CAUSE: Kolter Urban and OneWorld Properties hosted a topping off celebration for 100 Las Olas, the tallest residential tower in Fort Lauderdale. Guests enjoyed rooftop cocktails at the NSU Art Museum overlooking the development before moving inside for music and sushi.

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1. Ed Jahn, Anne Sullivan, Joseph Williams, Judy Larney, Gavin Thomas, Bob Vail and Dan Corp 2. Anna and Ben Sorensen 3. Felipe Fernandez, Artur Rodrigues, Agata Foley, Robinson Bernardes and Elen Oliveira 4. Judy Larney with Fred and Jackie Chaleff 5. Ed Jahn, Elen Oliveira, Vivian Cepero Athernon, Sergio Manarino, Agata Foley, Bob Vail and Peggy Olin 6. Bob Vail, Robert McKinzie, Peggy Olin and Ed Jahn 7. Megan Probst, McHenley Castillo and Agata Foley 8. Ray Baez, Marco Herrera, Grant Lundberg and C.J. Mingolelli

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THE EVENT:

A RT F O RT L AU D E R DA L E O P E N I N G N IG H T R E C E P T IO N & F U N D R A I SE R THE CAUSE: A VIP grand opening celebration took place at Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina to kick off Art Fort Lauderdale. Guests enjoyed cocktails and passed hors d â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;oeuvres in addition to performance art.

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1. Moises Fragela, Marcella Novotny and Ferdinand and Keith Tomlin 2. Alia and Alex Fernandez 3. Evan Snow and Andrew Martineau 4. Juan and Mayra Angarita 5. Ami Patel, Sharon Luongo and Veronica Mora 6. Brian Geffen and Jill Weisberg 7. Evan Snow and Steve Glassman 8. Chip Falkanger, Laura Quiroga and Karen and Mike Batchelder

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Florida Grand Operaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Broward affiliate, The Opera Society, hosted its gala at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in support of The Opera Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission to foster community interest in opera, promote friendship and provide charitable, educational and cultural projects throughout Broward County.

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1. Jan Solomon and Antonio Bautista 2. Peter Johnson and Shirley Admin 3. Jacqueline Hayward, Barry Rabinowitz and Barbara Chasco-Papale 4. Esther Underhay and Raphael Elviira 5. Carol and Rudy Frei 6. Roger and Isobel Sturgeon with Linda and Alvin Balent 7. Per Loof and Karen Blackwell

For post-event coverage eligibility, please send your event information to Associate Editor Melissa Puppo at melissa@gulfstreammediagroup.com.

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S O C I A L

C A L E N D A R

SOCIAL

CALENDAR

Your guide to upcoming, must-attend philanthropy events.

April 1 National Poetry Month Film Series presents ‘A Quiet Passion’; 7 p.m.; Lynn University; free; palmbeachpoetryfestival.org April 1 The Symphonia presents Lidia Kaminska; 7:30 p.m.; Old School Square; Tickets from $59; oldschoolsquare.org April 4 Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Concerts Under the Stars; 6:30 p.m.; Bonnet House Museum & Gardens; $45; bonnethouse.org

April 4 Brynn Saito will present “Following the Brush” at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

April 4 Brynn Saito ‘Following the Brush: Japanese Poetic Poems, Then and Now’; 7 p.m.; Morikami Museum and

Japanese Gardens; $7/members, $10/non-members; morikami.org

Hospital; 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Woodfield Country Club; $85; childnet.us

April 5 The Charity Guild of Fort Lauderdale Spring Luncheon; 11 a.m.; The RitzCarlton; Tickets from $125; charityguild.net

April 12 Brain Bowl for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Dementia; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Boca West Country Club; $125/pre-sale, $150/day of; brainbowlevents.com

April 5 Boca Raton Historical Society & Museum Boca Bacchanal Vintner Dinners; 7 p.m.; Various homes in Boca Raton; $325; bocahistory.org

April 12 Pineapple Jam; 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Historic Stranahan House Museum; $150; stranahanhouse.org

April 6 Boca Raton Historical Society & Museum Boca Bacchanal Grand Tasting; 6 p.m.; The Boca Raton Resort & Club; $125; bocahistory.org April 9 Place of Hope at the Leighan and David Rinker Campus Angel Moms Brunch & Benefit; 10:30 a.m.; Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club; $150; placeofhoperinker.org April 9 ChildNet Care for Kids Luncheon presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s

April 13 JDRF Greater Palm Beach One Walk Boca Raton; 7:30 a.m.; Mizner Park Amphitheater; free; jdrf.org April 13 The Opera Society Holland America Oosterdam Luncheon; 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Port Everglades; $85; theoperasociety.org April 13 Michael Tougias ‘U-boats So Close to Home’; 2 p.m.; Coral Springs Museum of Art; free; michaeltougias.com

Club; Tickets from $150; bocahelpinghands.org April 21 Easter Brunch; 10 a.m.; The Addison; $89.95; theaddisonofbocaraton.com April 26 Men with Caring Hearts Awards Luncheon; 10:30 a.m.; Boca West Country Club; $125, $1,250/ table of 12; ffcdc.org April 27 Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Dinner Auction; 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort; $250; bgcbc.org April 27, 28 Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center; $20; thebluewild.com April 28 Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K; 7 a.m.; Huizenga Plaza; $35; walklikemadd.org/fortlauderdale

April 13 Boca Helping Hands Monopoly Event & Casino Night; 6 p.m.; Royal Palm Yacht & Country

Note: Dates and times may change. Please contact the individual organization for the most up-to-date information.

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T

he latest thing in running for office in Florida is to not tell the voters what you stand for.

It may be the best way to win an election. As an example, we give you recently elected Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. If you followed the governor’s successful campaign last fall, you would have only a vague idea of what he would do if elected. He seemed to be a strong supporter of President Trump, wall and all, and had nothing negative to say about outgoing Gov. Rick Scott. A rational person would, therefore, assume that he did not believe in climate change, and saw nothing wrong with his predecessor’s steps, which did little to address the problems of Lake Okeechobee pollution and the effects on the estuaries on both coasts—especially in Martin County, as well as the ongoing neglect of the Everglades.

If you thought that, you were happily wrong. The Republican governor’s first months in office find him acting much like a Democrat—at least on those issues most important to those worried about Florida’s deteriorating environment. He has shown a determination to do something about the problems of Lake Okeechobee and South Florida’s threatened water supply. To say that environmental groups, most of whom opposed his election, are surprised, is to put it mildly.

Eric Eikenberg, chief executive of the Everglades Foundation, one of the most influential environmental groups, echoes the common theme: “This is the most optimistic we have been in decades —to have a governor who made cleaning up Everglades his No. 1 priority. We could not ask for anything more. Now we have to make sure that the legislature puts money behind those priorities and we can solve this problem.”

It was not just the new governor’s actions, but the speed of them, that has generated enthusiasm from environmentalists. DeSantis lost no time in asking

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for the resignations of the entire South Florida Water Management District board of directors. These are the people who make the decisions that affect the water flow from Lake Okeechobee.

While theoretically independent, the members are appointed by the governor and therefore reflect his views. And former Gov. Rick Scott’s views were a reversal from those before him.

Under Gov. Charlie Crist there was a plan to buy a huge parcel of land from U.S. Sugar Corporation, the Clewiston-based company that for decades has been growing sugar on land directly south of Lake Okeechobee.

That land was once the headwaters of the “River of Grass” and constituted the northern reaches of the Everglades.

Back in the day of Gov. Napoleon Bonaparte Broward (1905-1909), the land was drained with a network of canals to make it rich soil for agricultural purposes.

Because South Florida was lightly populated at the time, turning wetlands into productive farmland had limited effect of the Everglades. But as our area became the most populous part of the state and the demand for water grew steadily, so did the damaging effects of the stunted water supply.

The problem was compounded by the loss of wetlands, which were a natural cleansing agent for fertilizer polluted runoff from all the farms. South Florida found itself in a strange situation. Lake Okeechobee was surrounded by a dike after disastrous flooding in 1928. Water built up in the lake during the rainy summers, but when the lake became

dangerously high, water that nature intended to flow south into the Everglades was discharged through canals east and west. Areas that did not need water, such as the Stuart area, got too much polluted water, while the Everglades to the south did not get enough.

The U.S. Sugar land acquisition plan would enhance the natural flow of water, in effect restoring a crucial part of The Everglades. But under Gov. Scott, the plan to purchase land died.

A spokesman for U.S. Sugar said it decided not to sell after the state changed its mind about buying the land. But the truth is Gov. Scott nixed the deal by appointing his own people to the Water Management District. n recent years, the situation became disastrous, at least for Martin County, as polluted water from the lake merged with seawater, producing an algae buildup, which killed sea life in an area where economy depends on its reputation as a water wonderland. Gov. Scott’s administration worsened the problem by replacing management of the South Florida Water Management District with directors who favored the polluting agricultural interests over environmental concerns. Scott was obsessed with growth and new jobs. He showed little interest in people already living here. Eight years were wasted, and those years finally saw decades of neglect have their effect. In addition to pollution on both coasts opposite the lake, rising sea levels have been creeping inland, under our shallow crust of soil, encroaching on freshwater supplies for millions of people in Palm Beach, Broward and Dade counties.

Now all this history has been widely publicized. It is hard to live in South Florida without understanding at least the basics of the water problem. But one might think Gov. DeSantis, from far up in Daytona Beach, would not be acutely aware of the situation.

Wrong. So far.

I

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DIABETES PREVENTION STARTS WITH YOU Type 2 diabetes impacts countless lives, and early signs and symptoms are often missed. Knowing your risk factors and taking healthy steps can help you avoid serious complications such as nerve, kidney and heart damage.

Follow these four tips to help minimize your risk for diabetes: • Maintain a healthy weight

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To attend an upcoming diabetes class or screening, visit BrowardHealth.org/Events or call 954.759.7400 & select option 5.

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