March 18th, 2012
Let’s see…how should I start my visit to YOLO? I have eaten at this hip and trendy locale in downtown Ft. Lauderdale probably about 3 or 4 times. All those times have left me with a sense that the social ambiance, the exotic cars, the different attires worn by the patrons overshadowed my food. And, isn’t that what I have come here for? I mean, to dine.
YOLO stands for You Only Live Once. I guess if you do it right, once is really enough, don’t you think? It is located at 333 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. Tel. 954-523-1000 Website? www.yolorestaurant.com.
I decided to wear my higher heels too. I really did not want to be looking up all the time. How shallow, but, believe me, you had to be there.
I had made a reservation for outdoors, and was hoping that the weather would hold. It was, actually, a pretty nice evening. To me, outdoors is the place to be; among the bamboo and the fire pit. The fire pit was a gathering place for cocktails and mingling.
No two ways about it, YOLO is a hip and trendy venue. I am starting to believe that food takes second place. So, this was our experience.
Upon arriving the valet guys took my car; no parking at the front of the restaurant; the Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and other exotic rides were taking center stage. My Delaware tag did not face the valet guys who were friendly. My car was driven somewhere else. Cost? $5
Our table was waiting for us and it was perfect. We were not next to the fire pit, but could still get some of its warmth.
Our server, Alan, took care of us well. He had lived in Rehoboth Beach for a few years.
For an appetizer we ordered the Steamed Mediterranean Mussels with saffron, white wine, tomatoes and herbs. I usually order mussels anywhere they serve them. To this date none match the ones served at Liquid Assets in Ocean City, Maryland. The ones at Yolo were plump and they looked so good; once tasted, they were a little bland and maybe too big.
A Tuna Sashimi was ordered and it really was delicious; melted in your mouth.
The Grilled Artichokes were outstanding. The grilling added a different taste to their natural flavor.
One of my guests ordered the Grilled Snapper. She wanted it plain with brussel sprouts. It looked too plain for me, almost like some herbs were needed. I think she liked it.
My dish was the Creole Trout with lightly fried shrimp on top. I added roasted beets as a side order. I was not that crazy about my dish. It was just okay, but nothing to write home about. I would have wanted the beets to really be roasted. They did not look that way. The fish, was also a little bland, even though it was supposed to have been Creole, which usually adds a kick to dishes prepared that way.
My husband ordered T’s Prime Rib, thick cut, au jus, with a potato au gratin. We asked Alan, our server, to check the potatoes for possible gluten and the kitchen said it was safe to eat. I believe that was the best entree of the evening. Cooked rare, getting great reviews.
We had a good time…really!! We ate late, enjoyed the outdoors……I still think the social ambiance takes over the experience and enjoyment of the food.
The end of our evening and waiting for my car….some people coming in for the after the after hours lounging. It was getting late.
Note: Check the website for specials and events. Also, Thursdays is a night for locals. YOLO opens for lunch and dinner. Brunch on Sundays is offered from 11:30 until 2:00 p.m.
Talk to you later…
March 18th, 2012
I had to get out of town, pronto. Streets blocked in Delray and the traffic was at a standstill. There was a St. Patrick’s Parade to attend to. North on A1A is where we went. Palm Beach, our destination. On a gorgeous day like Saturday, the scenery was very much appreciated.
No parking on Worth Ave.; we kept on going past the Breakers and took a left right on Royal Poinciana Way. We stopped at Nick & Johnnie’s. You cannot miss it; right on the corner. The actual address is 207 Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480. Tel. 561-655-3319. Website? www.nickandjohnniespb.com.
Nick & Johnnie’s was not particularly crowded. It was also going to be a late lunch. We chose a table on their street side open air balcony. A few drinks were ordered and I was checking the restaurant out as we waited. Large bar and open air rooms. I liked it. I had been there before, but this was the first post to be written. I had forgotten if I had liked it before or not. Hmmm….I guess I would find soon enough.
My drink arrived. It was a “Green” Drink; not just for St. Patrick’s. It was made out of spinach, Kiwi, lime, parsley, kale, pineapple and apple. I took a sip and liked it. Offered to my friend; his answer? That’s different. When someone says that, I figure they did not like it. My husband thought it was good too. It was earthy and refreshing, if there is such a thing.
We were hungry and ordered immediately, by-passing any appetizers.
Our friend ordered the Fish & Chips – Local fish. The catch was pompano. It was beer battered, fries, and a Key Lime tarter. It looked beautiful. I hoped it tasted as good as it looked. He said it was moist and with just the right about of batter. The fries were nice and crispy.
My husband had the grilled salmon, with grilled asparagus, lemon and a bearnaise sauce. I am usually the one ordering salmon in every restaurant. The thing was that those fish tacos were calling my name. He said the salmon was perfectly cooked and seasoned.
Years ago I had for the first time fish tacos in San Diego, California. All those years ago and I never have even gotten close to getting others as good as those in San Diego. Guess what? On Saturday, at Nick & Johnnie’s I did. Again, they used the local catch, pompano. It was called San Felipe Fish Tacos. Everything was outstanding, starting with the fish, perfectly grilled, the cabbage, the pico and the white sauce. A side order of arugula salad with a lime dressing was the perfect addition to my dish. The tortillas were also homemade. If they are consistent with this one; they will have a winner.
No dessert, we were comfortably full. It is worth mentioning that all portions were very generous.
We all agreed that it was one of the few times, out to eat that we all liked everything we had. It was a nice afternoon…
Note: Nick & Johnnie’s offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Sunday Brunch, as well. Check the website since they also have entertainment. You can find them on Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter.
Note: When the drinks first were ordered, the rum requested was Myers. Myers and Tonic. The drinks did not taste right. To the bar my husband went. Talking to the bartender; just give me Myers and Coke. We don’t have Myers. Then, why didn’t you have the server say you did not have any, instead of passing a lower grade of rum instead. She sounded offended that the drinks wanted to be changed. Should not have happened. Customers know what they like.
Talk to you later…have a good one!!
March 16th, 2012
Dewey Beach has the perfect location. The town is right between the ocean and the bay, therefore, affording visitors all kinds of water sports and activities. Once you park you can walk from one restaurant or bar to another with no problem. Does it get crowded? That’s a given. Music and dancing venues are located along the strip of Highway One or Coastal Highway.
Being that it is a St. Patrick’s Week-End at the beaches…please check websites or call to get the latest info. Some have music and some don’t, but they are definitely open for the season.
The Starboard is located at 2009 Highway One (Coastal Highway) http://www.thestarboard.com. You know how Delaware loves its “vintage” tags? Well, check the new VIP tag for all of you that want to bypass those long lines. What a clever idea!! Available this week-end.
The Lighthouse is located at 124 Dickinson St., at Ruddertowne in Dewey. 302-227-4333 or visit www.ruddertowneusa.com.pdfs/lighthouse_menu.pdf.
Que Pasa? is also located at 124 Dickinson St., at Ruddertowned in Dewey. 302-226-1820 or visit www.quepasadewey.com.
Woody’s is located at 1904 Coastal Highway (Highway 1). www.deweybeachbar.com
Scully’s – Ocean Side Cafe is located at 2000 Coastal Highway (Highway 1)
Gary’s Dewey Beach Grill is located at 2000 Highway One (Coastal Highway). www.garysdeweybeachgrill.com.
Hammerheads is located at 1818 Highway One (Coastal Highway). http://www.facebook.com/hammerheads.delaware.
Rusty Rudder is located at 113 Dickinson & the Bay. www.deweybeachlife.com.
Port is located at 1205 Highway One (Coastal Highway). www.portdewey.com.
Whiskey Beach is located at Dickinson & Coastal Highway (Highway 1).
McShea’s Dewey Beach is located at 1705 Highway One (Coastal Highway)
Wings to Go is located at 1814 Highway One (Coastal Highway). 302-227-9555
Mama Celeste’s Pizzeria is located at 2001 Highway One (Coastal Highway) 302-227-4482
Sharky’s Grill for Breakfast and Lunch is located at 1508 Highway One (Coastal Highway). Take out too. 302-226-3116 or www.sharkysgrill.com.
Have a great time!! Let the Season begin…and remember,
March 15th, 2012
Delray Beach openly invites its visitors to discover Downtown; Night & Day, as they say…eateries, restaurants, outdoor cafes, unique boutiques, galleries, and entertainment…it is the perfect town to unwind. This week-end you might find it a little crowded…it is that time of the year.
Tim Finnegan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, located on 1725 S. Federal Highway is celebrating not on just one day, but several. Starting 3/15, there is entertainment, day and night, so stop by. Website? www.timfinnegansirishpub.com.
Friday, 3/16 – Opening Night -Woody Sez: The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie, a musical play that celebrates the American Spirit. Through April 8th at Arts Garage located at 180 NE 1st St. Time? 7:30 p.m. Visit www.delraybeacharts.org or call 561-450-6357 for tickets. Saturday, 3/17 and Sunday, 3/17, there will be a series of performances, so check the website or call.
Woody Sez “is a joyous, toe-tapping, and moving theatrical concert event that uses Woddy’s words, and over 25 of Woody’s songs to transport the audience….
The Arts Garage is a “multi-disciplinary cultural turf for visual artists, musicians, performers, film presenters and arts educators”.
Friday, 3/16 – Premier Pan American Art Auction Reception – Crane’s Beach House Hotel & Tiki Bar, 82 Gleason St. 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Opening Night; Mix & Mingle with collectors and artists outdoors at the poolside tiki bar with live music, cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. Need more info.? Please call 561-278-1700 or visit www.cranesbeachhouse.com.
Saturday, 3/17 – Every Saturday, the Delray GreenMarket opens its doors at 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Local vendors, music and food. Location? South of Atlantic on SE 4th Ave.
 My neighbors shopping with Angelique Saturday, 3/17 and Sunday, 3/18 – The 33rd Annual Hatsume Fair at the Morikami Gardens, located on Jog Rd., celebrates the first bud of spring with live entertainment, art, plant sales and Asian and American food vendors. 11 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. $12 for adults, $6 for children. For more info. please visit www.morikami.org, or call 561-495-0233.
Saturday, 3/17 – A St. Patrick’s Parade to get ready for, at 2:00 p.m. on Atlantic Ave. in Delray…before that, a Pre & Post Party starting at 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. at Old School Square, located at 51 N. Swinton Ave. It is the 44th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This Parade is a non-profit fund raising event. Help support the parade by attending the Pre & Post party at the Old School Square. There will be beer, food, music, vendors, and marching bands. More info? Visit www.festivalmanagementgroup.com. Or, call 561-279-0907.
A Parade like no other in South Florida…visitors will be descending on this Village by the Sea. The Parade is an International Tribute to Fire Fighters from around the world with thousands of them traveling to this town to help celebrate.
Saturday, 3/17 – Kevro’s St. Patty’s parade After Party – The Fabulous Fleetwoods Band, followed by Box of Rocks Band! and Big Smoker Cook-Out. Kevro’s Art Bar is located at SE 2nd Ave. in Delray Beach. For more info., please visit www.kevroart.com or give them a call at 561-278-9765.
Sunday, 3/18 – Trash & Treasure Community Yard Sale from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Old School Square Grounds, under tent. Someone’s trash is another’s treasure so shop for previously loved items and hand-crafted treasure. Vendores include local residents, crafters and non-profits. Have something to sell yourself or your non-profit? You can rent a 10 x 10 booth for $25. Space assignments are on a first come, first served basis. Entry fee must be paid in person by March 16th. Just go to the Crest Theatre Administrative Office. They open at 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The Old School Square is located at 51 N. Swinton Ave.
And, you know what? The good thing is that you can do as little or as much as you want…..check out the beach!!
March 14th, 2012
It is traditionally understood that St. Patrick’s death was in c. 493. In Ireland it is a solemn religious event; wearing green, maybe sporting a shamrock, and attending Mass. Those massive parades in the U.S.? They started in Manhattan and the rest is history.
Ocean City, Maryland will be having its Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, 3/17. It will start at Noon from 61st Street South to 45th St. on Coastal Highway. This annual parade and festival celebrates the “Wearin O’ the Green”. Marching bands, floats, law enforcement groups and more.
After the Parade? Entertainment, food and beverages. The Festival opens at 10 a.m. at 45th St. & Coastal Highway. More Info.? Visit http://www.delmarvairish.org. Or, you may call 410-289-6156. The Parade is sponsored by the Delmarva Irish-American Club.
Are you planning on some Pub Crawling? Up and down the coast the towns of Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Fenwick Island, and Ocean City, Maryland have some pretty popular Pubs and watering holes. You will find entertainment in most of them. Check their websites for complete details; some are partying more than others.
Lewes
Irish Eyes, located at 213 Anglers Rd. Website? http://www.irisheyespub.com. From 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Vin Fischer will be entertaining, followed by The Hit the Bottle Boys from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m., and followed by DJ Jammin’ Jeff from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m.
The Greene Turtle, located at 17388 N. Village Main Blvd. #21, at the Village of Five Points. Websites? http://www.thegreeneturtle.com. To check the events, please visit http://www.thegreeneturtle.com/events.php?id=13.
Milton (near the Delaware Beaches)
Irish Eyes, located at 105 Union St. Entertainment will be The Folk Heroes from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m., followed by DJ D King from 9:30 p.m. until 1 a.m. Website? http://www.irisheyespub.com.
Rehoboth Beach
Finbar’s Irish Pub, located at 316 Rehoboth Ave. Website? www.finbarspub.com.
Irish Eyes, located at 52 Rehoboth Ave. Entertainment will be Jr Wilson & Crabmeat O’ Thompson from 12 to 7 p.m., followed by Lower Case Blues from 8 p.m. until 12 a.m. Website? http://www.irisheyespub.com.
Stoney Lonen Irish Pub & Eatery, located at 208 Second St. Website? www.stoneylonen.com.
Fenwick Island
Smitty McGee’s Raw Bar & Restaurant, located at Rt. 54, West Fenwick Island. All Day, All Night $1.50 Green Domestic Drafts. $3.17 Corned Beef & Cabbage, while it lasts. Website? www.smittymcgees.com.
Ocean City, Maryland
Finnegan’s Irish Pub & Eatery is located at 4810 Coastal Highway. Tel. 410-723-3150.
The Greene Turtle is located at 11601 Coastal Highway. Website? http://www.thegreeneturtle.com.
Shenanigan’s Irish Pub & Grille is located at 4th St. & the Boardwalk (at the Shoreham Hotel). Website? www.ocshenanigans.com. To check the schedule of events for their Kick Off Party, then visit http://www.oc.shenanigans.com/stpatricks.html.
Have a great time!….The picture below is from a couple I met last year. They were ready for a celebration and they were so cute and happy to be with each other.
March 14th, 2012
Winter is a quiet time in on the “Quiet Resort” at the Delaware Beaches. I am talking about the town of Bethany Beach. But, slowly spring will be bringing more visitors to Bethany and the surrounding areas. Here are a few happenings.
Terrapin Naming Contest – Tomorrow, Thursday, March 15th, is the last day for this contest. The Indian River Life-Saving Station is located on Rt. 1 or Coastal Highway, a few miles north of Bethany Beach after going over the Indian River Bridge. The contest has been going on for the past month, but deadline is tomorrow to pick names for their newest residents to the Life-Saving Station; Diamondback Terrapins!!
These terrapins were rescued an unable to be released into the wild. They, now, have a permanent home with them, to be used for educational programs and the enjoyment of visitors.
Two ways to cast ballots: You can stop in at and cast a paper ballot or submit suggestions on Facebook at www.facebook/IRLSS under their Events tab. You can submit up to 2 suggestions per terrapin.
Prize? Always a prize! Winners will be selected on Wednesday, March 21st and receive an Annual Park Pass and a gift bag of goodies. You’ll also get your picture with the terrapin, in you would like.
The Indian River Life Saving Station was built in 1876 and is the only Station in Delaware that is still standing in its original location. I wrote a post with pictures on August 29, 2010. Just click on the month of August of 2010, on the left hand side of my website and scroll down to the 29th.
More info? Call 302-227-6991
Dickens Parlour Theatre – There is Magic at the Beach on Friday, March 16th. This theatre is located at 35715 Atlantic Ave. in Millville, Delaware. It is just about 5 minutes west of Bethany Beach, on Rt. 26. Please visit www.DPTmagic.com. Call for tickets at 302-829-1071. During the summer there will be nightly shows and even rainy day shows. Even though I have not attended a performance, it has been highly recommended. The website has a full schedule and impressive bios of all performers. Admission: Adults $18, Ages 12 and under $12.
Bunny Palooza – 5K/10K Race – Register now for this race sponsored by the Seashore Striders. Saturday, April 7th at 8 a.m. Website? www.bunnypaloozarun.com. Highlights? Chip-timed Race, Overall & Age Group Awards, Fun, Festive Course with Live Music. New Balance Tech Shirts to all pre-registered runners, goody bag at packet pick-up, Bunny Palooza Finisher Medals for the 10K participants, Post Race Party at Mango’s.
The race will finish at the Oceanfront on the Bethany Beach Boardwalk. Walkers, strollers and dogs are welcomed on the 5K Course.
For sponsorship opportunities or additional info., please contact them at info@bunnypaloozarun.com.
Note: You can find them on Facebook as Bunny Palooza 5k/10k Run & Walk.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later…
March 13th, 2012
I kept looking at the Fishing Pier from Oceans 234. That’s where I was having lunch yesterday; also my last post. It really looked so impressing jutting out on the ocean 920 feet. I could see people were fishing.
The Fishing Pier is located at 200 Northeast Second St. The tel. is 954-426-9206.
The name Deerfield comes from the many deer that grazed along the Hillsboro River. The city is 14.9 square miles. It has sandy beaches, the fishing pier and even a boardwalk.
So, off I went to walk the Pier…It was $1.00 for sightseers; if you want to fish, $4. It opens at 6:30 a.m. until midnight. It is lighted for night fishing; but remember, no commercial fishing is allowed.
Common catches are snapper, blue runners, pompano, Spanish mackerel, King mackerel, barracuda and croackers.
Every other Sunday, they hold Free Fishing Lessons. If you are one of the first 25 to sign up, then the lesson will include rod, bait and tackle for using during the lesson. A fishing instructor will be on hand to direct and help. Call the above telephone for more info.
The beach on Deerfield Beach has receive a “Blue Wave” award. This is a designation given by the Clean Beach Council for its excellence in water quality, beach conditions, safety services, public info. and habitat conservation.
The pier seemed so long. My first encounter was with Mr. Pelican. He was just sitting on the railing, oblivious of me walking by and pretty sure of himself.
The view from the Pier are incredible and the water was so blue and clear.
Fishermen were doing their thing. Rods against the railings and excitement here and there.
There is a little bit of cover if you want to get away from the sun.
On our way out we decided to drive through Second Street. People were sitting under palm trees, young and the more matured crowd, enjoying one beautiful day!!
Have a good one!!
March 12th, 2012
Today I was looking for a place where we could have lunch right on the beach. Deerfield!! That’s where we headed to. The restaurant? Oceans 234, located at 234 North Ocean Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441. Tel. 954-428-2539 Website? http://www.oceans234.com.
I had forgotten that it is Spring Break for many. The beaches in Deerfield Beach were very crowded; surfing, beach volley ball or just getting a suntan were the activities of the day.
It takes about 15 minutes from Delray Beach to Deerfield Beach. I like to go on A1A; a most scenic route.
Oceans 234 has indoor seating, as well, but, who would want to sit inside? It is right on the beach; a little boardwalk connects other restaurants on that block. Full view of the longest pier too.
We had a very nice table and our waiter was friendly and attentive.
We first ordered some calamari. Usually they are fried; but because of the gluten allergy they just sauteed them. A roasted pepper relish and a honey balsamic glaze accompanied them. Sorry, my plate became such a mess. They were so tender and perfectly cooked.
I just wanted a burger. A Black Angus Burger, char-grilled, sourdough flour-top, adding sauteed onions and mushrooms. Fries!!
Now, the next one was a first for all of us. A Crab Cake BLT!! I have never seen this on the menu. Check the picture out!! It looked fantastic and it tasted delicious. Jumbo Lump, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, remoulade sauce on toasted bread.
If you are visiting the area, definitely, stop, at least for lunch like we did. Talk to you later.
Note: Oceans 234 has a sushi menu and a sushi bar.
 
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