Bite the beaches

South Florida Restaurant and bar reviews

recent posts

about

  • J Alexander’s Fort Lauderdale FL

    Always feels like coming home

    Let’s start from the beginning, The Fort Lauderdale restaurant opened in 1995 at 2415 N. Federal Hwy. It was one of four new J. Alexander’s units the company (then still known as Volunteer Capital Corporation) opened that year as it expanded beyond its early Tennessee/Ohio footprint.

    The concept was—and remains—polished-casual American dining with a scratch kitchen and wood-fired grill, a formula the brand had been refining since its first restaurant opened in 1991 under the Nashville-based parent.

    In 2015, the company rebranded a group of locations (including Fort Lauderdale) to Redlands Grill—a sister concept with a slightly broader, “modern American” menu. The Fort Lauderdale unit later returned to the J. Alexander’s banner.

    The restaurant is once again listed by the company as J. Alexander’s – Fort Lauderdale at the same Federal Highway address. The brand has been part of SPB Hospitality since a 2021 acquisition.

    Now lets take a minute to talk about the interior, Walking into J. Alexander’s these days feels like stepping into a time capsule of comfort and mahogany. The vibe still whispers “Midwestern lodge meets steakhouse nostalgia,” complete with that soft amber lighting that says, “Yes, we take our martinis seriously.”

    But after nearly three decades of loyal service, the interior is starting to show its age—like an old friend who still insists on wearing their favorite corduroy jacket from 1998. The booths, once plush and cozy, now have all the support of a broken promise. You don’t sit down so much as sink into a conversation with your chiropractor.

    Still, there’s something undeniably charming about it. The warm wood tones and classic design feel like a hug from the pre–Wi-Fi era. You can almost hear the ghost of a waiter from 2002 saying, “Our prime rib is excellent tonight.”

    All that’s missing is a subtle update—maybe some fresh upholstery, a few modern light fixtures, and a whisper to the universe that says: “Please, someone bring me into the 21st century.”

    The Menu ;

    Browsing the menu at J. Alexander’s feels a bit like flipping through a yearbook — familiar faces, same smiles, and maybe just a touch more “well done” than last time. It’s comforting, sure, but after so many visits I could probably recite the menu backwards while blindfolded and still order the same thing.

    The dishes are as reliable as your dad’s old Buick: they start, they run, and they get you there — but no one’s mistaking it for a Tesla. Every plate is solid, consistent, and entirely devoid of surprises. Which, depending on your mood, is either culinary comfort… or gastronomic Groundhog Day.

    Part of me secretly hopes a rogue chef will slip something new onto the menu — maybe a rebellious truffle aioli or a daring vegan detour — just to see if anyone notices. Until then, I’ll keep ordering my go-to, smiling nostalgically, and wondering when “classic” officially crosses over into “vintage.”

    Now, before I sound like the grumpy critic who wants J. Alexander’s to serve edible art on a lava rock, let’s give credit where it’s due. Some dishes are so consistently good they could probably survive the apocalypse — and the Avocado Bomb is one of them.

    Picture this: hand-cut Ahi tuna mingling with a delicate crab salad, served with crispy wontons like a little culinary summit meeting. The plating is beautiful — greens, pinks, and golds so vibrant it’s practically begging for its own Instagram filter.

    The first bite? Pure heaven. The kind that makes you forget the booths have lost their bounce and that the menu hasn’t changed since the Clinton administration. It’s fresh, rich, and just bold enough to remind you why J. Alexander’s is still worth the visit.

    Moving on to the entrées, the Salmon remains the undisputed star of the show — cooked so perfectly you half expect it to stand up and take a bow. It flakes beautifully, it glistens just right, and it somehow manages to taste as if it has a personal trainer and a skincare routine.

    But then… there’s the cold orzo salad. Ah yes, the loyal sidekick that’s been tagging along since dial-up internet. It’s not that it’s bad — it’s just been sitting next to that salmon for so many years it probably qualifies for tenure.

    Visually, it’s like the chef plated the gorgeous salmon, stepped back, and said, “Hmm, this looks too professional — let’s add a random scoop of something beige for contrast.” The result: one side of the plate sings, the other side feels like it wandered in from a picnic.

    If they ever decide to retire that cold orzo salad, I might just throw a farewell party. Until then, I’ll keep ordering the salmon, quietly moving the orzo aside, and pretending it’s not judging me.

    And then there are the Crab Cakes — once one of J. Alexander’s crown jewels, the kind of dish that could make you daydream about your next visit before you even paid the check. But lately, something’s changed. The spark is… well, a little dim.

    On my last visit, the presentation looked more like “lunch rush” than “legendary.” The plating lacked the excitement it used to have — no flourish, no flair, just two modest crab cakes huddled beside what can only be described as a mountain of French fries large enough to qualify for statehood.

    Now, I love a good fry as much as the next person, but pairing them with delicate crab cakes feels like sending a ballerina to a wrestling match. The poor crab cakes never stood a chance. And to make matters worse, they’ve somehow shrunk over the years — like they’ve been through one too many budget meetings.

    The flavor is still there, faintly reminding you of their former glory, but it’s clear these beauties are overdue for a comeback tour. A little refinement, a lighter touch — and maybe just half the fries — could bring back the magic.

    Now, if seafood isn’t your love language, J. Alexander’s knows exactly how to make it up to you — with beef so good it could heal emotional damage. Two clear standouts: the Filet Mignon with Béarnaise and the Slow Roasted Prime Rib.

    The filet arrives looking like it came straight from a culinary magazine shoot — center cut, beautifully charred, and paired with a baked potato so generously loaded it should come with its own warning label. The Béarnaise sauce? Smooth, buttery, and just fancy enough to make you feel like you should’ve worn a nicer shirt.

    Then there’s the Prime Rib — slow-roasted, juicy, and unapologetically classic. The kind of entrée that doesn’t need to reinvent itself because it’s already nailed perfection. Served with smashed potatoes and au jus, it’s hearty enough to make you forget you ever doubted this place.

    Both dishes are cooked to perfection, dependable as ever — the culinary equivalent of that one friend who always shows up on time and never forgets your birthday.

    Final thoughts

    At the end of the day, J. Alexander’s still holds its ground as one of Fort Lauderdale’s most dependable go-to spots for a great evening out. From the smiling faces at the host stand to the servers who somehow manage to top off your water before you even notice it’s low — the service remains as polished as ever.

    Yes, the décor may be quietly whispering “renovate me,” and the menu could use a little creative spark, but there’s something to be said for a place that still delivers comfort, consistency, and genuinely good food in a world obsessed with reinvention.

    I still look forward to every visit — for the warm welcome, the steady quality, and that comforting sense that, no matter how the culinary world changes, J. Alexander’s will always be there, serving great meals with quiet confidence.

    It may be due for a facelift, but it’s still smiling — and honestly, so am I by the time I leave

  • Aquaplex , Oakland Park FL, The Show Must Go On (and It Does) But bring a life Jacket

    After 17 years of being known as ” Lips” they Closed, and was reborn as Aquaplex.

    The venue was acquired by Michael Barrett and Jonathan Barrett. They also own the original location of Aquaplex Key West.

    Driving up to Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale is like pulling into a tropical fantasy that… ran out of funding halfway through. You’re greeted — if that’s the word — by two heroic yet half-dead palm trees, bravely holding on like they’ve seen one too many drag brunches and just can’t anymore.

    They stand there, one drooping dramatically, the other giving “I’ve had enough of this humidity” — it’s basically The Real Housewives of Oakland Park: Botanical Edition

    renovation ? In one article, it is stated that under the previous ownership “for several years, [the venue] … ignored maintenance and put the day-to-day burden … on the queens” (i.e., performers). So: the baseline may have been quite run-down.

    While claims of “major cosmetic and infrastructure upgrades” are made

    Some patrons may feel that what was done appears limited to surface-level cosmetic touches rather than a full interior refit. It’s plausible that much of the existing furniture/fixtures remained in place (seating, tables, bar cabinetry) and what was changed were accent elements . That can give a sense of “used furniture / second-hand store” if the furnishings are older, mismatched or not fully consistent with the new vision.

    Now on to the food and service

    We came for the Aquanettes Drag Brunch — a dazzling $49.95 spectacle of wigs, lashes, and mimosa-fueled chaos. Our server was also part of the show — a glitter-drenched queen who served sass with a side of sequins. Honestly, she was the best thing on the menu.

    With the brunch special, we were promised bottomless mimosas — which sounded fabulous until we met them in person. The “sparkling” part was… sparkling something. Could’ve been prosecco, could’ve been Sprite — we may never know.

    Then came a pitcher of what appeared to be orange juice, though “orange” is doing a lot of heavy lifting here. It had the same shade as a traffic cone that’s seen better days and the flavor of Vitamin C’s distant cousin who dropped out of school to become a mixer.

    Together, they formed a cocktail that tasted vaguely like optimism and regret. Bottomless indeed — because after the first glass, you start questioning how deep that bottom really goes.

    I decided on the grilled salmon cakes, which I can only describe as… a cry for help in patty form. They arrived with what the menu called a creamy key lime sauce, though I suspect the “key” might’ve been to the janitor’s closet.

    Let’s just say, the drag was high art — the food, not so much. While our server was lip-syncing for her life, my salmon cakes were gasping for theirs.

    Now on to the show

    Now, the show — thank goodness for the show. It was an absolute blast: high energy, high heels, and higher hair. The queens served up glitz, glam, and glittery chaos with the precision of Vegas headliners and the humor of your most unfiltered aunt at Thanksgiving.

    There were multiple acts, each more over-the-top than the last, and by the second number, the crowd was living for it. Sequins flew, wigs defied gravity, and the lighting budget was clearly doing all the heavy lifting that the kitchen wasn’t.

    Because let’s be honest — the food wasn’t the star of this brunch. The queens were. They turned what could’ve been a sad salmon Sunday into a full-blown sparkle spectacular. If laughter burned calories, I’d have finally forgiven those salmon cakes.

    Final Thoughts

    In fairness, the show is what people come for — and it delivers. The queens are electric, the energy is high, and the laughter is contagious. It’s dinner theater meets drag cabaret meets “what exactly did I just drink?”

    The Aquaplex is less a full renovation and more a reincarnation — same bones, new wigs, and a healthy dose of glitter. It’s a place where you’ll have fun, make memories, and maybe reconsider ordering the salmon.

    But hey, that’s brunch in Oakland Park: part performance, part mystery, and 100% unforgettable — whether you want it to be or not.

  • Salvo Osteria Romana: A Roman Holiday… with a Plot Twist

    Salvo Osteria Romana: A Roman Holiday… with a Plot Twist

    Let’s start with the man himself: Salvatore “Salvo” Mulé — restaurateur, nightlife impresario, and all-around Wilton Manors personality. You might recognize him from The Eagle, his other local business where the dress code is… let’s just say, more leather-forward.

    Born in Sicily, Salvo brings that unmistakable Italian flair — and a little bit of drama — to everything he does. Before opening restaurants, he worked in the airline industry (so he knows turbulence), then in real estate (so he knows location), and finally, into hospitality and nightlife (so he knows how to throw a party). Now he’s added “Roman-inspired dining” to his résumé — because why not complete the trifecta?

    His latest creation, Salvo Osteria Romana, opened in mid-2025 at 2389 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, serving “Roman-inspired Italian cuisine.” In true Salvo fashion, the vibe is big, bold, and just slightly over the top.

    The Scene: A Roman Mural and a Minor Identity Crisis

    As you walk up, you’ll be greeted by a massive Colosseum mural so realistic, you half-expect Russell Crowe to emerge holding your tiramisu yelling, “Are you not entertained?!” The two painted gladiators watching from the wall give off “Roman surveillance system” vibes — like the ancient version of a Ring camera.

    At the host stand, I said, “Reservation for 6:45.”
    The host replied, “For 6:30?”
    Me: “No, 6:45.”
    Host: “Oh, you’re Jack!”
    At last, my identity and my dining time aligned. Small victory.

    Dinner in the Twilight Zone

    We were seated near the restrooms, which, to be fair, is convenient if you’ve recently hydrated. Our server was pleasant — emphasis on pleasant, not necessarily professional. Menus, water, cocktails… check. So far, so good.

    Drinks arrived fast, like warp-speed fast. Then came the question:
    “Are you ready to order?”
    Sir, we just sat down. My drink hasn’t even emotionally bonded with me yet.

    Bread was brought out, but the olive oil and balsamic were pre-mixed — a tragic omen of culinary shortcuts to come.

    Before my second sip of wine, our server returned with what can only be described as a laminated picture book of specials and a tiny notepad. As he bravely attempted to pronounce the dishes, I realized this man was fighting for his life. We ended up correcting him, like a live episode of Duolingo: The Musical.

    The Food (and the Flash Speed Service)

    I ordered the Pasta e Fagioli, my guest went for the Burratina and Prosciutto Crudo. Shockingly, both dishes arrived in what felt like minutes. NASA should study this kitchen’s efficiency.

    The Pasta e Fagioli was flavorful, served at the perfect temperature, and comfortingly familiar. The Burrata, however, came with exactly two crostini — as if the restaurant was facing a global bread shortage.

    Feeling brave, we tried the Polpo Alla Griglia (grilled octopus with chickpea purée, $22). The octopus was excellent — for exactly one bite. After that, the chickpea purée took us on a one-way trip to Blandsville.

    The Noise, the Speed, and the Mystery

    Here’s where things got weird(er). The noise level inside the restaurant was straight out of a 5th-grade cafeteria — if that cafeteria also served martinis. Between the clattering plates, shouting servers, and echoing voices, my Apple Watch actually asked if I wanted to enable “Hearing Protection Mode.”

    The pacing was just as chaotic. Tables were seated, served, and gone before I could finish a sip. One table got their drinks, their meals, and a hasty goodbye all within ten minutes. Another table left without even touching their cocktails. Did they see something we didn’t? A secret trapdoor? A portal to better service? The mystery remains unsolved.

    The Patio: A Ray of Roman Sunshine

    As we escaped — ears ringing like I’d just left a Guns N’ Roses concert — I passed by the outdoor patio. And here’s the thing: this is where the magic could happen. It’s charming, breezy, and blissfully quieter. If Salvo could merge the energy of his nightlife with the calm of that patio, it would transform the whole experience.

    Final Thoughts

    If you go to Salvo Osteria Romana, bring:

    • Earplugs
    • A Xanax
    • And only enough quarters for 20 minutes of parking — you won’t need more time.

    There’s potential here — the food shows flashes of brilliance, and Salvo’s heart is clearly in it. But right now, it feels less like “Roman dining” and more like “Roman chaos with a nice bread basket.”

    r

  • Papa Duke’s Wilton Manors

    Papa Dukes Deli – Wilton Manors, FL.

    So lunched at Papa Duke’s a few weeks ago and here was my take away.

    Let’s start outside — because honestly, it could use a little love. The building has all the charm of a strip-mall dentist office. It’s not exactly calling you in from the street. A fresh coat of paint, maybe some greenery, and a couple of tables out on the sidewalk would make a world of difference. This is Wilton Manors — we like to eat outside, people-watch, and pretend we’re in a European café. Papa Duke’s, if you’re listening, throw a few chairs out front and you’d be golden.

    Now we are inside, lets talk about the Décor,

    If you can call it décor — and by “décor” I mean a mashup of 1990s breakroom meets your uncle’s garage — then you’re in for a surprisingly delicious time at Papa Duke Deli. The inside feels like they decorated by accident and then decided to just roll with it. The lighting is a little harsh, the art looks like it came from a yard sale clearance bin, and the furniture gives “we just moved in yesterday” energy.

    Now, about the counter service — buckle up. It’s not exactly intuitive. You’ll stand there for a solid minute trying to figure out where to order, where to pay, and where to pick up your food. There are no obvious signs, and everyone behind the counter looks busy (and slightly surprised you’re there). Eventually someone will wave you over and take your order, and then you’ll play a fun game called “Guess When My Food Is Ready and From Which Direction It Will Appear.”

    But here’s the thing: the food absolutely redeems every design sin in the place. Once that first bite hits, you forget all about the paint color choices and start forgiving them for the chairs that squeak. The sandwiches are loaded, the flavors are on point, and everything tastes like it was made by someone who actually cares about what you’re eating — even if they clearly don’t care what the walls look like.

    The service is friendly in that unpolished, local-deli way — casual, fast, and honest. You can tell Papa Duke is more focused on feeding you right than winning an interior design award.

    In short:
    Atmosphere: A decorating mystery.
    Service: Friendly but feels like a scavenger hunt.
    Food: Very Good. Worth every confusing minute.

    Come for the sandwiches, stay for the story — and maybe bring a compass for the counter.

    Would you like me to tailor it for Google/Yelp style (shorter, punchier) or for a blog/review article (a bit

  • WILD SEA ON LAS OLAS ( WHERE FLAVOR GOES TO DIE

    Wild Sea On Las Olas

    Frist off ” Why do we choose to dine on Las Olas?”
    Because we like to pay too much, park too far, and pretend we’re enjoying ourselves while being served indifference on a white plate.

    Las Olas is where ambiance goes to flirt with disappointment. We come for the vibe, stay for the cocktails, and leave wondering how a $40 fish could taste like office printer paper.

    Dining on Las Olas is basically a sport — you compete for parking, endurance-test your patience with the wait staff, and practice your best fake smile when the bill arrives.

    At this point, I don’t go to eat — I go for the performance art.

    Now on to the pick of the week Wild Sea.

    If “Wild Sea” refers to the state of your stomach after eating here, then the name is spot on. The place looks nice — all coastal chic and Instagram-ready — but beneath that fancy decor lurks a menu that tastes like it lost a fight with a microwave.

    Our waiter clearly missed his calling as a prison warden — every interaction felt like a punishment. He sighed when we asked questions, rolled his eyes when we ordered, and vanished entirely when we actually needed something. I started to wonder if “Wild Sea” referred to the waves of hostility coming off our server.

    When my drink finally arrived (after what felt like a small geological era), he practically dropped it on the table like he was auditioning for a role in Waiters Gone Wild: The Angry Edition.

    I ordered the “Blacken Fish Tacos ,” and I swear it tasted like it had been caught sometime during the Obama administration. The only thing wilder than the fish was the price — my lunch cost more than my first car, and it came with a sprinkle of something pretending to be sauce.

    To be fair, the view of Las Olas was lovely — perfect for gazing out and wondering where it all went wrong.

    In short: if you enjoy overpaying for under seasoned seafood while listening to other diners pretend they’re impressed, Wild Sea is your new spiritual home. For everyone else, might I suggest literally anywhere else with a fryer and a pulse?

  • TEE JAY’ SUSHI – WILTON MANORS

    Tee Jay’s Thai Sushi – Wilton Manors

    Tee Jay’s is one of those Wilton Manors landmarks that feels like it’s been here since sushi was invented — and honestly, we’re glad it has. The food is consistently delicious, the portions are generous, and the staff has mastered the art of being friendly without hovering. The sushi is fresh, the curries are rich, and somehow everything tastes even better after a cocktail or two from next door.

    Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the dining room — the décor. It’s got that “early 2000s Asian fusion” look that time forgot. The walls have seen some things, the lighting feels like a soft nod to a tanning booth, and the furniture has that lived-in charm of a restaurant that’s fed half the neighborhood. It’s clean, don’t get me wrong, but if the interior were a person, it would definitely be wearing cargo shorts and flip-flops to brunch, let’s just say it’s got “character.” The décor hasn’t changed much in years — and that’s part of its charm (or maybe a call for a makeover). The space could use a little updating, but there’s something oddly comforting about it — kind of like grandma’s old couch: a little dated, but you still wouldn’t trade it for anything, at least while she’s alive.

    Still, Tee Jay’s makes up for it with flavor, value, and personality, fast, filling, and wallet-friendly

    Come for the food, stay for the nostalgia, and bring your appetite (and maybe a dimmer switch).

    One of the best-kept secrets here is their daily lunch specials. They offer a great variety at very reasonable prices, making it an easy go-to for a quick, delicious lunch. The bento boxes and Thai lunch combos are especially popular — filling, well-balanced, and served fast, even during busy hours.

    What really makes them stand out, though, is their delivery app and online ordering. It’s fast, easy, and the food always arrives hot and fresh — no soggy rolls, no missing sauces, no mystery substitutions. It’s basically like having grandma deliver dinner to your door, minus the guilt trip about not visiting more often.

    In short: Tee Jay’s might not be the fanciest spot on Wilton Drive, but it’s one of the most dependable. Great food, fair prices, and a delivery system that actually works — what more do you need?

    Well possibly a can of paint and new furniture ?

    Till the next time !

    Thanks for reading please let me know if you are enjoying the blog

  • ETHOS, Wilton Manors FL

    DID YOU KNOW :

    In Greek, ethos means “custom” or “character.” As originally used by Aristotle, it referred to a person’s character or personality, especially with respect to a balance between passion and caution. In English, ethos is used today to refer to the practices or values that distinguish one person, organization, or society from others. In rhetoric, ethos is often studied alongside pathos and logos as a technique to successfully persuade an audience.  

    Ethos restaurant in Wilton Manors FL , couldn’t have been named more fitting. Opening their doors to the public in 2016 they will be celebrating 10 years soon.

    Still under the guidance of the original owners that developed the concept and have only improved it as the years have gone on.

    Walking up to the entry you cant help but notice the extraordinary architectural design of the restaurant, In casing covered outdoor seating for dining and to the well placed bar, leading you in to full indoor dining room. The atmosphere is often described as modern and sleek.

    Amazingly enough, you have the extraordinary full view of a kitchen, separating you only by a glass window. I am always impressed with a restaurant that is courageous and confident enough with their management and staff to put it all right out there for everyone to see. Coming from a restaurant background this is really something special.

    Now lets talk about the menu, Some of the signature dishes include Lamb Chops — “cooked to perfection” and among one of the very best things on the menu.

    Bronzini , Mediterranean sea bass, always a favorite for dinner

    Orzo Paella — Seafood lovers especially love this, citing its variety (shrimp, calamari, mussels, scallops) and zesty sauce. And of course their Greek Salad a great starter or meal by itself.

    These are just a few highlights of the full menu, Choosing some of the most popular.

    Those who know me , will always see me somewhere on Sunday for brunch. I’m a “Brunch junkie” and Ethos is my favorite. Not only is the menu perfect for the brunch crowd, but they offer the best bottomless mimosa’s. Including my personal favorite ” blood orange “

    Summarizing my thoughts on Ethos is easy. Here is a wonderful jewel of a restaurant that never stops improving and growing, these praises come well earned by the hard work of the owners. mangers and staff. This is what running a restaurant is all about.

    Keep up the great work and cant wait to visit again !

  • Brunch Do’s and Don’ts

    Sunday, Awwww what a perfect day for a relaxing outing with friends. Not too early. not too late. Just a beautiful afternoon sunshine indoor/outdoor dining accompanied by the perfect mimosa, the one we are always looking forward to. Not to much OJ and just the right amount of Champagne.

    So, this is what we all have in mind for that great Sunday experience. Well I wish I could say that this was how my day went last week.

    This weekends vote was to visit a local Wilton Manors FL restaurant known as TROPICS. The name sounds inviting enough, give you the feeling you will be surrounded by a garden environment and soft music and amazing food and beverage right ?

    As I walked up to the entry I was greeted by an A frame chalk board with the brunch menu on it. Not so unusual really, sadly, this was the best part of the brunch.

    Once through the door it became very clear TROPICS was not anything as the name implied.

    Let’s start from here, I was a few minutes behind my brunch mates, so I the last to make it to the table. Walking through the restaurant, I found myself trying not to be to bothered by the interior of the dining room, Dark, worn out tables and chairs and I think there was some sort of carpet on the floor. Finally making it to the table, there was one step up of course I tripped stepping up due to no marking on the floor or the waiter suggesting I watch my step.

    Finally seated, I noticed everyone had napkins and flatware but me. waiting a few minutes thinking our waiter would have noticed, however never did. I just reach over to another table and took a set.

    Once our waiter reappeared, I was sure we would get a menu or perhaps a little presentation from our less the stellar waiter, but no such luck.

    Our waiter was kind enough to say ” what do you want to drink” , Hey, its Sunday and I’m a Mimosa kind of guy, I request a blood orange mimosa. Our waiter promptly inform me they had NO such thing. Now this part was new to me as he did say ” we can make it with cranberry juice ” I said ” No thank you, just a regular one is fine” Well who knew you could make a mimosa with sunny D juice boxes ??? Something new everyday.

    A few minutes of chat with the other guests it was time to head to the buffet, I’m really not sure in all my years of attending buffets and preparing them I’ve ever walked up and found such a very poorly lit table with maybe 10 chafers on it that had absolutely no labels in front of the chafers to guide you through the journey of what you would be interested in trying.

    Bravely, I opened the first chafer and found, what some would call scrambled eggs ( you know the kind that come in a box and you pour them in a pan to cook them) what still fascinates me is there was something else in the chafer on the right side. Now, I asked a few of the others what this could be but no one had an answer .

    On to chafer number 2, to my surprise there was something that looked like eggs benedict, What I found truly amazing is that they had each come out of a box possibly, individually wrapped, and warmed.

    This was also a pass !

    Bravely moving down the line to Chafer 3 I opened to find beautifully stacked Eggo’s with I think French toast on the right side. What really set the stage was the plate next to the chafer with artificial maple syrup, Beautifully sitting in a pool of syrup running off the side of the buffet. Yummmm, this really made me want to dig in and cover those Eggo’s with syrup..

    Next was chafer 4 , this was not much of a surprise and somewhat standard for brunch buffets. sausage links and patties out of a box. Yawn !

    So here is where it gets really exciting, Chafer 5 we had biscuits and gravy ( gravy out of a can of course ) and biscuits that sadly had passed there shelf life RIP

    Another disappointment !

    The grand finale was with out a doubt Chafer 6, Now remember, nothing had labels in front of the chafers so I’m only able to discuss the items that sort of looked familiar. Anyway, Chafer 6 was some sort of instant potato ( I think ) mixed with possibly ground beef ???? Now. really who could pass this up? Mystery food !

    As you recall I did say 10 chafers were set up but, the other 4 were empty

    A few highlights I really want to share is, when warming a chafer we use sternos to warm the water that keeps the food hot. This tends to make the lids of the chafers a little hot to the touch, so we would normally tie a napkin on the handle so the guest would not burn their hand opening. No need here everything was at room temperature,. I think this really added incredible way to really highlight how much we were valued as guests for this very interesting experience

    But hey here is the bonus You got all this for just under $80 for two people !!

  • Lets start with a little bit about me

    Let’s start with my story, and how I got started and how the journey has been so far.
    Several years ago, I was a manager for First National Bank mortgage division, but had a background in restaurants and catering with a small breakfast/lunch restaurant in Phoenix AZ. As we all know the mortgage business crashed in 2008 and I was faced with the bank closing and losing my job. I struggled along for the following year and did whatever I could to make ends meet. I was cleaning houses and working for a catering company as a waiter.

    Watching the catering company and thinking of the things I had done in the past made me know I could offer the public a better way of presentation and quality. All fresh and handmade, nothing frozen or pre-packaged as some companies do. I set out with small events and dinner parties and my following grew, Moments in time Catering was born. From there I saved enough to open the 2nd of 3 restaurants. Moments In Time Catering and Gourmet and Moments In Time Bistro which I sold a in 2016

    So there I was, sold the restaurant and couldn’t really find the next location when it came to me to embark on an Idea I had for a long time, a food truck. I did some research and found what local people seem to like and Tacosaurus was born. We successfully operated Tacosaurus ( A Mexican – seafood fusion) I launch Tacosaurus in the begin of 2017 and in 2022 a company in Hawaii contacted me and just had to have my truck.

    I learn early on in life when someone wants to buy your business that’s when you sell, There always comes a day when you wish you had taken advantage of the moment.

    Now I am back in the Mortgage business but have kept my catering company going with a limited number of long time clients. Now that’s not to say you wont hear about a full reopening in the near future .
    Nothing is ever easy in business. I have faced so many challenges over the years, too many to really count. I would say the most important thing to remember is always believe in yourself and never give up. The person that never tries will never be the person that wins

    Moments in time was recognized by channel 10 news as being voted in the top 4 caterers in South Florida and I was also featured on the TV show bites with belky.

    I’m very proud of these accomplishments and look forward to much more as we try to design new restaurant concepts.

    So, That’s a little bit about me and my background. Next question, Why do I want to write about our local food culture? Pretty simple, I love food and great dining experience. I have several favorites that I frequent often.

    I’m hoping to share my experiences with anyone that is interested in reading about my thoughts.

    I am honestly hoping to help people become more excited about going out to eat, and want to try and raise the bar a bit in Fort Lauderdale.

    I we have some very wonderful establishments ( bars and Restaurants) and sadly a lot that are just getting by because, either people don’t care or just don’t know the difference between ok and great. This not only is in food quality but service and atmosphere.

    Ok everyone, so this will be what ill be doing moving forward, I’m not out to bash anyone’s business but I also am not apologetic for giving an honest review. My food background is strong , and sharing my thoughts I feel will add some value to our city

  • Hello World!

    Welcome to WordPress! This is your first post. Edit or delete it to take the first step in your blogging journey.