Showing posts with label Fort Lauderdale. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fort Lauderdale. Show all posts

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Bird Watching in South Florida


Bird Watching in South Florida

There are many great places in South Florida for bird watching.  Located near the beach in Fort Lauderdale, north of Sunrise Boulevard is Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.  New mitigation areas have attracted many species of birds to the park. In the fall, an abundance of warblers were seen each day, including rare species like Worm-eating, and Prothonotary warblers.  Various species of swallows such as Barn Swallows and Bank Swallows are also seen each year.  Kingbirds, Cooper’s Haws and Merlin Vireo can also be found.  
 
Also in Fort Lauderdale, located on Sheridan Street near Pine Island Ridge Road, is Brian Piccolo Park.  The main bird that can be found at this park are Burrowing Owls.  The owls are protected by stakes and ropes from other human activity in the park such as baseball fields and joggers.  Look for these ropes and stakes around the park to spot the owls. 
 
In central Hollywood, a tiny nature path known as John Williams Park is a mecca for songbirds during migration.  Bird-watchers will also find Screech Owls, Yellow-billed Cuckoos and Cooper’s Hawks.  There is a wide paved trail perfect for watchers, joggers as well as a playground for children.  Just west of State Road 441 north of Sheridan Street, this bird-watching hotspot is a well-kept secret. 
 

South Florida Graffiti Art


South Florida Graffiti Art

Graffiti as an art form is taking over large cities all over the USA, including Hollywood, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale.  What began as a way to send messages on the street, has evolved into a bold and colorful expression of emotion and artistic talent.  Throughout South Florida, Graffiti Art Communities are forming and sharing their messages on the city landscape. 
In Fort Lauderdale, Fat Village is one such community.  They hold regular competitions and battles to determine the best graffiti artists in the city.  Their work can be found mostly in downtown Fort Lauderdale and areas surrounding the train tracks.  Some may mistake these pieces for vandalism, but if you take time to check them out, it is clear that this is art…these artists simply have a bigger canvas than most.
In Downtown Hollywood primarily on Harrison Street, much of the same type of art can be found.  Similarly to Fat Village, these artists are attempting to change the way that we view graffiti by creating graffiti that inspires the same way that classical art does. 
Further south in Miami, you can find Wynwood Walls. This gallery is located downtown on NW Second Avenue between 25th and 26th Street.  They are open to the public and require no reservations or tickets. Wynwood is definitely the most popular and well-developed of the three locations featuring artists such as Paris’ famous graffiti artist Invader, and Brazil’s Nunca. Wander through the colorful buildings and discover the hidden messages within the walls. 

Unique Museums


Unique Museums

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a beautiful place to discover South Florida’s unique connection with Japanese Culture.  Wander through six different gardens each designed to represent a specific historical period and Japanese gardening style. Travel through time and discover Japanese culture both traditional and contemporary as you roam through Morikami’s varied exhibits, educational programs, Pan-Asian cuisine and gift store. For your very own special event, choose Morikami for a beautiful and calming setting. Each month, attend one of their offered cultural demonstrations or festivals.  
South Florida has a variety of great museums if your group includes children.  One of the best is The Young At Art Museum.  Exhibitions are interactive and allow children to learn and experience different aspects of art and culture.  All exhibits are based on a child’s view of the world through the interpretations of internationally known Haitian, Seminole, African, Japanese, and Cuban artists. 
Another unique museum to check out is the Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum.  The museum started as a non-profit with the goal of preserving the history of the Packard Motor Company.  Step onto the floor of a Packard showroom circa 1920 and explore unique motorcars from the first half of the 1900s.  In addition to the cars, the museum also includes pieces of memorabilia and rare parts that come together to create a unique peek into American History.  

Fort Lauderdale Eye Care and Eye Wear


Fort Lauderdale Eye Care & Eyewear


Fort Lauderdale Eye Care and Eye Wear is the place to go for all of your eye care needs.  Located on SE 17th street in the Southport Shopping Plaza, Fort Lauderdale Eye Care offers a convenient location and professional optometry.  Whether you simply need a check up, or you are in the market for some fashionable new frames, they will have exactly what you need.  The friendly front desk will help you schedule an appointment anytime Tuesday-Saturday. 
Dr. Bearden and Dr. Hanley offer a variety of services including glasses, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses. Their large selection of designer eyewear includes Takumi, Ralph Lauren, Rayban, Nike Sports Wear, and BCBG.  Fort Lauderdale Eye Care and Eyewear is also able to perform tests in order to detect possible glaucoma or other ocular diseases and injuries.  Using Facebook and Twitter, as well as their online website, Fort Lauderdale Eye Care and Eyewear offers many online promotions.  Jump online before your appointment and discover instant savings! 

For visitors to Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale Eye Care and Eyewear conveniently accepts walk-ins.  With high-quality, professional eye exams from experienced doctors you can’t go wrong.  So next time you forget your glasses or contacts on vacation, no need to worry! Just pop into Fort Lauderdale Eye Care and see your problems disappear.

Kyojin Japanese Buffet


Kyojin Japanese Seafood Buffet
Kyojin Japanese Buffet is an upscale, all you can eat, Japanese seafood buffet located right here in Fort Lauderdale.  Walk in to find detailed Japanese décor and a vast and eclectic display of dishes.  Friendly and knowledgeable staff will seat you and take your drink order.  Try a traditional Japanese beer called Kirin Ichiban to get the night started, and then it’s off to the buffet! With its huge variety of dishes, Kyojin has something to offer for every diner. 
Start by perusing Kyojin’s plentiful sushi sashimi bar including a la carte options, maki sushi, as well as special rolls made by the sushi chef.  Move down and visit the welcoming chef behind the hibachi table who will take your order and prepare your choice of meat and vegetables.  Choose from New York steak, shrimp, spare ribs, teriyaki chicken and grill squid.  Grab a bowl of miso soup to finish it off and run to your table to begin your feast! 
If you still have room left, move on to the Oriental Hot Food Buffet, which features scallops, tempura shrimp, sesame chicken, sautéed crab and more.  Don’t forget to leave room for one more return trip to the buffet table.   Dessert of course!  Kyojin offers a delightful variety of ice cream as well as fresh fruit and pastries, cheesecake and tea.  Kyojin Japanese Buffet is sure to leave you full and satisfied!  Click Here for Kyojin Japanese Seafood Buffet's website

Eating Local at Big City Tavern


Eating Local at Big City Tavern
Big City Tavern located on Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas Boulevard prides itself on its use of locally grown ingredients.  With over 10 successful years in the industry, Big City Tavern has always had a delicious and varied menu. But Chef Louis Bossi has taken excellence to the next level as he produces house-made charcuterie including pancetta, guancaile, pasciuto, salami and lardo on site.  Menu specialties change daily depending on which local products are available. 
Using local purveyors such as Palmetto Creek Farms and Farmhouse Tomatoes, Big City Tavern does not skimp on quality.   Chef Bossi’s passion for creating a menu filled with house-made, local and seasonal ingredients is apparent with the first bite.  From the crackers to the salami, everything is home-made and absolutely delightful. Try a delectable fresh cheese plate served with nuts and figs, or Big City’s famous French fries to compliment your home-made charcuterie. http://www.intown411.com/big-city-tavern. 

With a rich, downtown vibe to their décor, Big City Tavern is a big restaurant with a big goal. To give every customer a taste of something fresh, seasonal, and created right here in South Florida. Underrated simply because of its long-lived presence on Las Olas, Big City Tavern is often overlooked.  Stop in and ask about the house-made pasta and charcuterie to experience a unique and satisfying meal.  Flavor and variety fill every bite, leaving every diner happy with their choice. Click here for Big City Tavern’s Website.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

ROK:BRGR Fort Lauderdale


ROK:BRGRROK:BRGR
ROK:BRGRIn short, this is no ordinary burger joint. ROK:BRGR has become widely recognized for its inventive gourmet burgers and a wide variety of craft beers, as well as its creative twist on classic American comfort foods. ROK:BRGR offers guests a welcome reprieve from Fort Lauderdale’s dizzying bar scene. The understated 1920s speakeasy atmosphere allows ROK:BRGR’s delectable menu to take center stage – just as founder Marc Falsetto imagined it would. Click here for Intown's Listing of ROK:BRGR

ROK:BRGRAs its name suggests, ROK:BRGR is known for their 17 signature burgers that will rock your taste buds. The Las Olas burger – ten ounces of American Kobe Wagyu beef topped with cave-aged gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, and garlic aioli – is a must-try! Or get the burger that won ROK:BRGR top honors at Riverfront Trust’s 2012 Burger Battle: the Bacon Jam – ten ounces of certified prime angus beef, brie cheese, and maple bourbon bacon.

Wash down your meal with one of the dozens of craft beers, like local brews Key West Sunset Ale and Florida Lager, or treat yourself to one of ROK:BRGR’s handcrafted cocktails, like the Strawberry Basil Manhattan – a concoction of fresh strawberry and basil, muddled with Bulleit Frontier Rye and sweet Vermouth. ROK:BRGR stays true to its gastropub roots by using high-quality local and sustainable ingredients to give guests a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Click here for the ROK:BRGR website
ROK:BRGR is also working with Intown411 and the Humane Society of Broward County in the You Save, They're Saved! program. With every purchase of an InTown411 discount certificate to ROK:BRGR, 25% of the proceeds go directly to the HSBC to help our furry friends.

Monday, July 23, 2012

Employment Resources


Employment Resources
Employment ResourcesIt's a tough economy out there.  Job losses and home foreclosures seem to almost be the norm now.  Wouldn't it be great to get a little help?  If you're down and out, Employment Resources can pick you up, and they thrive on their results.  As a job seeker, there's no need to look any further.  Employment Resources has connections to countless employers, and have placed more than 10,000 applicants through the nation.  Whether you’re looking for temp or permanent work, Employment Resources can help you get there.  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Employment Resources.
HandshakeOn the other side of the spectrum, if you’re an employer and looking to hire someone, there’s nothing more tedious than going through candidates that just don’t have what you’re looking for.  Employment Resources is that objective third party who will find the most qualified candidate for you.  They will ensure that the employee’s performance is at your optimum standards.  Otherwise, the company will have them replaced, within 90 days, at no cost to you.  Employment Resources even handles the tedious, introductory paperwork.  It's every employer's dream.
JobsEmployment Resources has four offices (Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, Orlando) located throughout South and Central Florida, and can help you find a job anywhere in the U.S.  Whether you are an employer or prospective employee, Employment Resources’ passion is to guarantee matching the right person with the right company.  They're a company who will ensure all your professional needs and searches are met.  That's a comforting thought to have when you’re going for a job, from both the interviewer and interviewee’s perspective.  Click Here for Employment Resources’ website. 

Monday, July 9, 2012

15th Street Fisheries


15th Street Fisheries
15th Street Fisheries off the Intercoastal WaterwayFresh seafood, a beautiful water view with boats and yachts, and great service – these are the reasons 15th Street Fisheries has come to be so popular.  You can always count on them for a great dining experience in Fort Lauderdale.  From the moment you pull up, everything is taken care of.  The valet is complimentary.  When you walk into 15th Street Fisheries, the large bar, who serves happy hour drinks from 4pm-7pm (M-F), has friendly, hospitable bartenders ready to make a refreshing beverage.  Don’t forget to check out their $5 Happy Hour Menu.  Then, step outside to their dockside cafe and enjoy a view that will take your breath away. Click Here for InTown’s Listing of 15th Street Fisheries.
Shrimp Platter15th Street Fisheries is located right by the 17thStreet Causeway and Port Everglades so you can see the most luxurious yachts, the Jungle Queen, and Tropical Sailing’s Spirit of Lauderdale pass by.  15th Street Fisheries is even a stop on the Water Taxi, so you can arrive here by car or boat.  There's something for everyone on the menu, but I would personally recommend starting with the Peel and Eat Shrimp and the Caribbean Conch Salad.  The crab cake sandwiches, coconut fried shrimp, and grilled skirt steaks are also very popular.  At 15th Street Fisheries, you can also feed the tarpon on their dock. Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of 15th Street Fisheries.
Crab Cake SandwichIf you head up the stairs at 15th Street Fisheries, you will find a more elegant setting.  Yes, it’s like eating at two restaurants, but you can still enjoy that beautiful waterfront view.  Partake in their house made sangria and Chilean sea bass.  15thStreet Fisheries offers more than just great food.  Their events calendar always keeps you updated on their live performers.  15thStreet also offers a Summer Special: Three-Course Dinner for $35 from Sundays to Thursdays.  The specially prepared tasting menu is their chef’s most original and delicious creations.  Click Here for 15th Street Fisheries' website.

Monday, June 4, 2012

Bimini Boatyard


Bimini Boatyard
Outdoor Dining by the DockBimini Boatyard is in a class of it’s own!  They will undeniably provide you with an exquisite and memorable dining experience.  As I walked inside the venue, I was reminded of a tropical paradise.  There are comfortably large chairs and couches for luxury seating, a blue décor reminiscent of the ocean, and coincidentally, a beautiful waterfront view.  Yes, you can pull up to Bimini by car or boat.  The dock boards right up to their patio bar and tables (the dolphin deck).  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Bimini Boatyard.
Lobster, Fries, and ButterYou can dine inside or on the patio.  The view is beautiful either way.  The food is just as pleasing.  I highly recommend you start any meal with the World Famous Bimini Bread, a sweet, rich treat.  It is the perfect compliment to their seafood chowder, served everyday.  The chef’s signature seafood dishes, such as succulent lobster tails and Caribbean spiced salmon, are just as delectable as they sound.  Bimini Boatyard is such a treat that many rent out their rooms for banquets, rehearsal dinners, and baby showers.  Their gorgeous Bahamas room can hold up to 110 people.  Perfect for a party!  Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of Bimini Boatyard.
BarLooking for Sunday brunch?  Bimini serves the best brunch at a great value.  Their presentation alone will have you in awe.  The life-size boat is perched inside and filled with fresh seafood.  An omelet station lets you personalize your food, and icluded with brunch is a Bloody Mary, Mimosa, or Champagne.  Bimini’s three bars also provide delicious specialty frozen drinks.  Come in for their Happy Hour everyday from 4pm – 8pm.  The cherry on top at Bimini is the service.  It is absolutely exceptional and truly one of the best!  Click Here for Bimini Boatyard’s website. 

Monday, May 7, 2012

Lauderdale Grill


Lauderdale Grill
Interior DecorLauderdale Grill is one of those places that you can bring anyone to.  If you want a family day, there are video games and a claw machine.  If you want to hang out with friends, there’s a full bar, wall-to-wall televisions, and a personable staff.  Even if you decide to go solo, Lauderdale Grill would be worth it.  Their food is fresh and their venue is a combination of modern décor and simplicity.  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Lauderdale Grill.

Ahi Tuna NachosLocated right on Cordova Road by Fort Lauderdale Beach, this place delivers some delicious and one-of-a-kind food.  From their Ahi Tuna Nachos to the various custom-made burgers, Lauderdale Grill has a plethora of items created with their own personal touch.  It’s all fresh as well!  A popular favorite is Rib Night on Thursdays.  Come in and enjoy a succulent rib that falls right off the bone.  Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of Lauderdale Grill.

Bar and TVsWhen you want to go out and catch a game, there’s no need to look any further.  Lauderdale Grill has all the sports playing on their numerous televisions.  Their drinks and sliders will perfectly compliment your game.  The martinis (I highly recommend the berrytini) are delightful.  And for a little break in your work, come by Lauderdale Grill for Taco and Margarita Tuesdays.  It’s not hard to see why Lauderdale Grill is a favorite among local and tourists. Click Here for Lauderdale Grill’s website.

Monday, April 30, 2012

Stout


Stout
Beautiful Bar Top and TVsStout is known as an Irish pub, but this place is so much more than that.  This venue screams casual but classy with it’s brand new décor and renovated design.  The bar has every drink imaginable, including your Irish favorites.  As you walk in, plasma televisions cover all the walls letting you know this is the ultimate spot to watch a sports game.  So kick back with a cool drink, and catch a great game at Stout’s.  


Pool Table and TVsWhat’s a pub without some fun?  At Stout, the staff is friendly, fun, and their service is impeccable.  They make sure you have a great time and are very accommodating.  If you want a bite, you can sit in one of their comfortable booths that also come with it’s own television.  Just like the comforts of home.  Their new pool table is also in the back just waiting for a good game to happen. Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of Stout. 


Steak FlatbreadStout provides an amazing menu of foods.  Classic favorites like a 14oz Sterling Silver New York Strip Steak and Grilled Chicken Wings are always a hit.  I would highly recommend their Seared Tuna Oriental Salad (perfection!) and Steak Flatbread followed by some dessert.  Chocolate Molten Cake, anyone?  If you catch the Irish spirit, Stout does not disappoint.  They keep the tradition alive here with fish & chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie.  Click Here for Stout’s Facebook Page.