Showing posts with label Hollywood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hollywood. 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. 

Ginger Bay Cafe


Ginger Bay Cafe
Ginger Bay Cafe located in Hollywood is perfect for a lively night out on the town.  The menu spans all varieties of authentic Jamaican food including jerked wings, curried chicken, and delicious coconut shrimp.  With choices like goat, oxtails and yuca fries, Ginger Bay is the perfect place to try something new!  All entrees are served with rice, potatoes, or veggies, but I highly recommend the bammy yucca fries or plantains. Click here for Intown’s listing of Ginger Bay Cafe.
Ginger Bay is known for having some of the best live reggae in South Florida.  Jam along with other guests to jazz, soca, drum bands, and classic reggae.  The atmosphere is relaxed and fun. Live reggae on Friday’s and Saturday’s mean a full house prepared to dance the night away.  While you dance, sip on a refreshing mojito or daiquiri offered in a variety of flavors.  Ginger Bay’s signature drinks are sure to keep you dancing all night long! Click here to see Intown’s Gallery of Ginger Bay Cafe
Ginger Bay also offers a great happy hour including $5 shots, sangrias, cocktails, martinis and wine, and $6 margaritas and mojitos.  The bar also has $5 wings, fries and fish during happy hour.  Ginger Bay is a great place to hold an intimate event full of energy and fun.  The perfect location for a birthday, office party, or holiday party, Ginger Bay will leave your group full, relaxed and satisfied.  Click here for Ginger Bay Cafe’s website

Delicious Seafood at Billy's Stone Crab





If you are looking to enjoy a romantic dinner on the water complete with sunset views and delicious stone crabs, look no further than Billy’s Stone Crab Restaurant. The allure of Billy’s innate elegance, their extensive and innovative menu, and friendly and knowledgeable staff combine to create a flawless dining experience. Your night begins by walking into a newly renovated dining room complete with romantic lighting and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the water.


While Billy’s Stone Crab is known for the all you can eat stone crab and world famous mustard sauce, the menu offers a variety of options. You can begin with a tasty chowder or salad, or choose from expertly prepared hot and cold appetizers.  Don’t forget to explore Billy’s newest addition to their menu - fresh sushi.  Rolled to perfection, Billy’s sushi rolls are simple yet scrumptious. For your main course, enjoy Jumbo Alaskan King Crab Clusters, Fresh Florida Black Grouper, Yellow Tail Snapper, Lobster, Oysters, Clams a Filet or New York Strip.


Fresh fish of the day is prepared many different ways.  The Bretone is sautéed with mushrooms, capers, crabmeat and jumbo shrimp in a lemon butter and white wine sauce.  The Key West preparation is lightly sautéed in butter and white wine sauce and then topped with jumbo shrimp, jumbo lump crabmeat and garnished with sliced avocados.  Billy’s generous portions and fresh ingredients will keep you coming back.


Head downstairs to Billy’s Marketplace on the lower level.  Here you can find fresh shrimp, stone crab, snapper, and grouper to purchase.  Billy’s Stone Crab prides themselves on their selection of fresh Florida seafood that is wild caught, and never farmed. You can taste the difference from the first bite. Wander towards the back of Billy's Marketplace and take some time to experience Billy’s newly remodeled wine room.  This room is available for parties, and it is also the perfect spot to stop for lunch, or a quick casual dinner.  At Billy’s Stone Crab Restaurant you can be confident that you are eating the best fresh seafood in South Florida.


Monday, August 20, 2012

Hollywood Parasail


Hollywood Parasail
Hollywood ParasailingIt’s a beautiful day in Hollywood!  Why not take it all in with a bird’s eye view?  All you have to do is head to Hollywood Parasail and enjoy a gorgeous view over the waters of Hollywood Beach.  You can go single, double, or even triple on the parasail.  Experience flying through the skies and over the ocean.  It’s definitely a thrilling ride, and perfectly safe!  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Hollywood Parasail.

Parasailing in Hollywood BeachHollywood Parasail is conveniently located behind the Marriot Hotel on Hollywood Beach.  The staff is friendly, efficient, and before you know it, you’ll be on a boat for your parasailing voyage.  The captain is experienced, knowledgable, and ensures your takeoff is smooth and gentle.  You can choose to stay dry or have a little fun getting dunked in the ocean.  Soar above the blue waters of Hollywood and as you parasail, you may even spot some fish below or birds flying past you.  Hollywood Parasail provides a memorable water and air adventure. 
Parasailing in Hollywood BeachTake in the view, enjoy the breeze, and look over everyone in Hollywood Beach.  It's also a great way to cool down with the Florida heat.  While you will have ample time in the air, all good things must come to an end.  And as your parasailing adventure comes to an end, Hollywood Parasail will make sure you land just as smoothly as you took off.  It's not completely over.  Descending back on the boat is a fun ride in itself.  So pack some sunscreen, a towel, and you'll be ready for the great time awaiting you at Hollywood Parasail.  Click Here for Hollywood Parasail's website.

Monday, July 23, 2012

Angus Steakhouse


Angus Beefeater Steakhouse
AppetizerMention Angus Beefeater Steakhouse to someone who knows it and you're likely to get an effusive recommendation! Angus Beefeater features authentic Argentine cuisine and utilizes the traditional Argentine method of grilling à la parrilla over oak wood and a bank of hot coals. This family owned restaurant has been in operation since the 1980s and has won many diners choice awards, including beast steaks in Hollywood!  Click here for InTown’s listing of Angus Beefeater Steakhouse!
EmpanadasThe appetizers at Angus Beefeater Steakhouse don't flirt with the trendy but go back to a more traditional (and more enjoyable) selection. The empanadas are a must. Our favorite is matambre de pollo, chicken rolled up around a filling of hardboiled eggs, ham and cheese, served sliced, with a cream sauve on the side. Do not forget to try their famous Chimichurri, served with every warm bread at every meal.  Click here for InTown's Gallery of Angus Beefeater Steakhouse.
SteakAll of the beef served at Angus Beefeater Steakhouse is Angus, and even less expensive cuts, like the skirt steak, have a deep beefy flavor. Stretched out lengthwise to what looks like a foot, it is juicy and chewy, a steak with texture.  And, for veggie lovers, try the spinach ravioli, we tried it with the cream sauce, which was amazing, but you have your choice from three different sauces. Click here for Angus Beefeater Steakhouse's website.

Monday, July 9, 2012

Reeves Coastal Cruises


Reeves Coastal Cruises
Steering a Bennington Pontoon“Cruising the waters lets you share a back porch with a millionaire.”  But you can do so much more than that at Reeves Coastal Cruises.  Located at the Westin Diplomat in Hollywood, Reeves Coastal Cruises offers you something the others don’t: Freedom.  Here, you have the choice to set your own hours.  Your favorite snacks and drinks will be provided (just tell them what you like).  Be your own captain and cruise on the scenic Intercoastal Waterway in a new 2011 Bennington Pontoon.  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Reeves Coastal Cruises.
Sandbar Party in HollywoodThe beautiful pontoon at Reeves Coastal Cruises is spacious and provides comfortable seating (up to 13 people) so don’t forget to invite your friends and family aboard.  “There’s no better way to reconnect than on water.”  Set sail to your favorite tunes, enjoy the company, and admire the mansions, dolphins, and manatees along the way.  You can dock at a restaurant for some great food, or pull up to a sandbar and create your own mini-beach.  Either way, Reeves Coastal Cruises will ensure you have an amazing experience.  Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of Reeves Coastal Cruises.
Bennington PontoonOwned by Brad Reeves and his wife, NBC meteorologist Jennifer Reeves, you can’t find anything like Reeves Coastal Cruises.  Their fun personalities and Southern charm (Louisiana, to be exact) is truly refreshing, and their sole purpose is to make sure you have a great time.  Everything, from fuel, life jackets, towels, sunscreen, sodas, and snacks are included.  They offer specials, such as elegant sunset cruises, an early morning coffee cruise (they had me at coffee!), wedding parties, and family reunions.  They can even bring the boat to your hotel/resort so you can board dockside.  It’s hard not to have an incredible time when your every whim is catered to, as Reeves Coastal Cruises does.  Click Here for Reeves Coastal Cruises’ website. 

Monday, June 18, 2012

SAS Martini Lounge


SAS Martini Lounge
SAS Martini Lounge“Oh yes, it’s ladies’ night and the feeling’s right.”  The ladies definitely feel great when they head to SAS Martini Lounge.  Who wouldn’t if you get to drink free on Monday nights and dance to the sounds of Y100 with Mack at Night?  SAS Martini Lounge is a place where you can feel comfortable as you party.  There’s no need to worry about people stepping on your toes, any overcrowded shoving, or a strict dress code.  This is a lounge where you can still dance as if in a club.  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of SAS Martini Lounge.
BarIs your birthday coming up?  SAS Martini Lounge has the best deal in town for the birthday.  Come in and buy a bottle of Smirnoff.  And SAS will wish you a happy birthday with another free bottle of Smirnoff AND a free bottle of champagne.  They even put their own touch with balloons.  Yes, the people at SAS truly treat you like the V.I.P. you are.  Even their resident DJs, such as DJ Mas Inc, cater to you.  Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of SAS Martini Lounge.
Couches by the WindowEveryone (and I do mean everyone) comes to SAS Martini Lounge.  Harold Velasquez, of Mix 98.3, comes on Friday aka Latin nights.  On Thursdays, you can jam with Power 96’s Nikki Ramirez from 11pm – 4am.  If you come any earlier, you can jam out with Sam I Am on the karaoke machine.  As a matter of fact, you should always arrive early to SAS Martini Lounge for their Happy Hour.  From 4pm – 8pm everyday, SAS offers half-off on their drinks and delicious appetizers.  Come to SAS Martini Lounge and enjoy a free cover, great deals, and wonderful people.  Click Here for SAS Martini Lounge’s website. 

Hello Sushi


Hello Sushi
Wall of CharactersLocated right in Hollywood Circle is a taste of Japan.  Right when you enter Hello Sushi, it’s as if you have entered another world.  The walls are covered with Japanese landmarks and it almost feels as if you’re there.  Anime is projected on one side of the walls.  Hello Sushi even has the clean and simple décor of Japan down to the last detail. Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Hello Sushi.

SushiThe food at Hello Sushi is just as authentic and detailed.  The lemonade is homemade.  With a full sushi bar, the food is made fresh-to-order.  Each wasabi serving is carved into a green (tea) leaf.  The seaweed salad is divine, and the dragon rolls are made in the form of a dragon!  Live the American Dream or just eat the roll with cooked salmon, cucumber, and avocado.  Hello Sushi also offers a delicious Thai cuisine menu.  Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of Hello Sushi.

Sushi RollsAfter eating fresh sushi, don’t forget to save some room.  What’s Japanese food without the desserts?  At Hello Sushi, there is a selection that includes fried bananas with honey, thai donut, tempura cheesecake, and ice cream.  The food and interior at Hello Sushi go hand-in-hand: simple and clean.  Experience the delicious of Japan at Hello Sushi.  Click Here for Hello Sushi’s website.

Harrison's Wine Bar


Harrison's Wine Bar
BarThe lights are low, the ambiance is intimate, and the bar has whatever your heart desires.  The big leather couches lets you know you can be comfortable, when you’re out.  As you make your way to the back, a beautiful patio that includes cabanas awaits you.  This luxurious atmosphere also comes with a fusion of fun in the form of a stripper pole.  The people at Harrison’s Wine Bar, also known as Rich and Mary, definitely knew what they were doing here.  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Harrison’s Wine Bar.
Selection of BeerHarrison’s Wine Bar has a wonderfully vast selection of wines in addition to beers, martinis, and drinks.  Whatever you choose, it will be perfectly (and strongly) blended by the bartender, Todd, who is exceptionally personable and friendly to everyone!  Even the clientele at Harrison’s Wine Bar should be recognized as the beautiful and sexy.  There are some great characters here.  Click Here for InTown's Gallery of Harrison's Wine Bar.

LoungeKnown as a “lifestyle bar”, Harrison’s Wine Bar is a place where “adventurous couples and singles meet”.  They also have ladies night, couples night, and happy hour.  Hungry?  You won’t have to go far for a bite.  Harrison’s Wine Bar has the best burgers in town, and delicious tapas.  Personally, I would recommend Todd’s Tacos – your choice of turkey, sirloin, or chicken with authentic chime churry and taco sauce.  Yum!  Click Here for Harrison’s Wine Bar’s website.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Hollywood CRA


Hollywood CRA
Hotels on Hollywood BeachDivulge yourself with the ever-present beauty and experiences that the City of Hollywood has to offer!  We all know about the gorgeous ocean and sandy beaches, but Hollywood is oh, so much more that that.  InTown, with the assistance of Hollywood CRA, has the 411 on where to go, what to do, and what to see in this beautiful town.  My personal favorite is located right in the heart of Hollywood.  Yes, the Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa is more than a place – it’s an experience!  And you can also easily find more quality-certified hotels in Hollywood at http://www.gohollywoodfla.com (Click on “Places to Stay”).  Click Here for InTown's Listing of Hollywood CRA.
International Row of Restaurants in HollywoodThe popular Hollywood tourism site can likewise be used as a go-to guide for the events and hot happenings in the city.  All aboard for the Hollywood trolley that takes you to over a dozen spots from Hollywood Beach to their historic Downtown location – all for the unbelievable price of $1 a ride!  When you stop on Hollywood’s beachside, soak up the sun with some jetskiing, parasailing, or snorkeling.  Their exquisite ocean scenery is also ideal for weddings.  If you go downtown, make sure to bring your appetite to “International Row”, a plethora of restaurants from diverse cultures, accompanied with live entertainment.  Click Here for InTown's Gallery of Hollywood CRA.
Arts ParkHollywood CRA was “created to redevelop Hollywood as a dynamic place to invest, work, live, and play”.  And that’s exactly what it is. The people, venues, history, and liveliness in the City of Hollywood is contagiously enticing.  It’s no wonder one of Hollywood CRA’s goals is to have this city recognized globally as a premier visitor destination.  So why aren’t you here yet?  Click Here for Hollywood CRA's website.

Bistro 1902


Bistro 1902
Bistro 1902“Bon Appetit,” said the waitress as she served the complimentary baguettes with olive butter (homemade, of course).  Bistro 1902 brings the French experience to the fullest extent….and it’s right in the comfort of Hollywood Boulevard.  However, nothing less should be expected when their executive chef has cooked for Le Jules Verne at the Eiffel Tower.  The heavenly French bistro is just the answer when you need a great wine to compliment your delicious meal.  Click Here for InTown’s Listing of Bistro 1902.
SandwichBistro 1902 has the brunch you’ve been looking for.  They have sweet or savory crepes, French toast, or for the full package – the Bistro 1902 Brunch Special, which comes with eggs, bacon, sweet French toast or crepes, coffee, orange juice, and a champagne cocktail.  The French know how to eat!  Bistro 1902 also has a delightful lunch menu of baguette sandwiches, pasta, and appetizers, such as escargot.  Click Here for InTown’s Gallery of Bistro 1902.

Creme BruleeCelebrate life at night here!  Bistro 1902 has live music every Friday night.  Feast on the delicious slices of fresh duck foie gras glazed with raspberry vinegar.  Just saying it makes me crave for more.  The French comfort food of choice would definitely be the beef bourguignon.  It is braised for four hours in a red wine sauce and served with carrots, onions, and pasta.  Cooked to perfection!  Don’t forget the crème brulee!  It is truly a divine dessert cooked with berries and a generous sweet topping.  Click Here for Bistro 1902’s website.