The Local Lens SMILES AROUND TOWN ‘Twas the Night Before A CROWD-PLEASING CASSEROLE
A LIST OF LOCAL EATS
Unparalleled luxury on 100 ft of prime Intracoastal next to the Hillsboro Inlet! With long SE water views, this 8,546 sf all-concrete offers soaring ceilings, panoramic impact windows, glass elevator, and full Lutron automation. Interiors feature Italian cabinetry, appliances, smart bidets, Sonos sound throughout, and designer finishes. The master suite boasts endless water views, dual dressing Kohler shower digital system with thermostatic heads/steam shower, freestanding tub, and private balcony. Entertain in the clubroom wine cellar, or outdoors with a 50’ infinity pool, spa, fire bowls, gazebo lounge, summer kitchen, and 100’ yacht dock. Every detail ultimate modern waterfront lifestyle.
Unparalleled luxury on 100 ft of prime Intracoastal next to the Hillsboro Inlet! With long SE water views, this 8,546 sf all-concrete masterpiece offers soaring ceilings, panoramic impact windows, glass elevator, and full Lutron automation. Interiors feature Italian cabinetry, SubZero/Wolf finishes. The master suite boasts endless water views, dual dressing rooms, Kohler shower digital system with thermostatic heads/steam shower, freestanding tub, and private balcony. Entertain in the clubroom with bar & wine cellar, or outdoors with a 50’ infinity pool, spa, fire bowls, gazebo lounge, summer kitchen, and 100’ yacht dock. Every detail delivers the
2349 NE 24TH STREET, LIGHTHOUSE POINT
$5,495,000
2349 NE 24TH STREET, LIGHTHOUSE POINT $5,495,000 Turnkey 2022 new construction on 100 foot of deepwater. Dock up to a 100 foot vessel less than 5 minutes to the ocean! The unique 1200 foot garage as well.
Turnkey 2022 new construction on 100 foot of deepwater. Dock up to a 100 foot vessel less than 5 minutes to the ocean! The home offers a unique 1200 foot garage as well.
AD DESIGN BY PHOTO GRAPHIC PRESS, INC. (954) 816-3148
Featured listing | Lighthouse Point | 2758 NE 30th Avennue, 1A | $500,000 | 2 BR, 2 BA | Southeast corner unit directly on the intracoastal with unobstructed views of the Hillsboro Lighthouse. Very private one of a kind condo ready for your personal touches! Web# F10535662
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| 9661 Carousel Circle S | $805,000 | 3 BR, 2 BA Pool | Home is desirable West Boca Estates neighborhood in A rated school district and seconds to great shopping, dining and entertainment! Web# F10533652
or
Point waterfront home, Delray Beach condo 1 block from the beach and Boynton Beach 55 + condo coming soon! Call for details.
“Julie is an AMAZING realtor! She guided me through the selling process step-by-step: She digitally staged my home and the pictures came out better than I could have imagined. She took care of all of the details of the showings and kept me informed after each one of them. She worked tirelessly for me during the negotiation phase and got me quite a bit more money than I would have been willing to accept! She also guided me through the closing process and she had infinite patience for all of my questions along the way. Additionally, she goes above and beyond when it comes to solving problems as they arise. But what really sets Julie apart is her communication which is absolutely top tier. She is reachable by text, phone, and email and she was always very quick to get back to me (often within minutes of me reaching out to her!). I have worked with a handful of realtors in the past, some of which were quite good. But Julie is, by far, the best realtor I’ve ever worked with! And she doesn’t just excel as a seller’s realtor. Julie was also my realtor when I was buying my home and she gave A+ service representing me in that transaction as well. Julie is THE BEST and you won’t be disappointed if you choose her.” - Ian W.
Julie Adler Mahfood, GRI
Executive Director of Luxury Sales Sales Associate
M 954.304.4424
julie.mahfood@elliman.com
(Top 15%)*
Lighthouse
Luxury Condo for Rent | Boca Raton | 100 SE 5th Avenue, 110 $9,000/Mo seasonally
$7,000/Mo annually | 2 BR, 2 BA located in Mizner Court on the grounds of the Boca Raton. Web# F10524874
Just Listed
Boca Raton
Season of Sparkle
A traditional white Christmas may be a distant dream here in South Florida, but the spirit of the holidays is alive and thriving. The warmth of the season is palpable, with plenty of festive activities. From boat parades that light up the waterways to the tree lightings that illuminate the night, there is a joyful celebration happening at every turn. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year, and the cherry on top is the balmy weather that allows us to enjoy the festivities without the chill of winter.
Unwrap the Magic
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a global dining experience. At the Shoppes at Beacon Light, you’ll find an array of restaurants showcasing cuisines from across the globe, along with local favorites you’ll want to visit again and again. It’s also a fantastic and convenient place to get a jump on holiday shopping, with boutiques and specialty stores just steps away.
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22 Creatively Speaking
I was that little girl.
24 The Lowdown
The season is in full swing, and there is plenty to keep you busy. This month, we bring you green markets, art exhibits, performances, concerts and more.
32 Happy Snaps
Folks are out and about. See smiles from the Rotary Club’s Fashionista luncheon at the Hillsboro Club and a World of Pink fundraiser at Galuppi’s and a boat show kick-off party.
38 Personal Development
Working fast has benefits, so why not become one of those people who get things done?
40 Relationships
From naughty to nice – forgiveness is a wonderful holiday gift.
42 Financial Fitness
Finacial habits that build long-term wealth.
46 Legal Matter
The many reasons to avoid probate.
48 Fish Tales
Fishing during the holidays in South Florida can be its own reward.
50 Creatively Cooking
What to do when you need to feed an onslaught of out-of-town guests the night before Thanksgiving.
52 Try the Wine
Gifts for the wine lover.
68 Local Flavor
Check out our list of local eateries – whether you crave a burger or a lobster – you’ll find something you love.
Merry Christmas Merry Christmas
CONTRIBUTORS
David Ehrenfried • Gregory Edwards • Craig Haley
Michelle Hays • Mrs. Kossenfloffer • John Piotrowski
Does your organization have an event you want people to know about? Has your event already happened? Send us your photos and we’ll put them in our upcoming issue! Email editor@pointpubs.com.
Please include the name and location of the event, the names of those pictured and a brief description.
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For three decades, P.J. Rossi Jewelers has been your premier destination for custom jewelry in South Florida. Our awardwinning designer has been crafting unique, personalized pieces that turn your dreams into reality using a combination of hand sketching and state-of-the-art CAD/CAM technology. The entire design and manufacturing process takes place in house so we can ensure the highest quality and brilliance in every piece we create.
There is still time to place your custom jewelry order for holiday delivery!
Mrs. Storyteller
BY SUSAN ROSSER
ecently, my husband Richard and I spent a few days away at the Conrad Hotel in Orlando. I didn’t realize how much I needed rest and relaxation until I actually took the time to relax. This whole vacation thing may catch on.
On our second night, we had dinner at Sophia’s, the Italian restaurant on the property. As we chowed down on arancini and a lamb rib appetizer, I found myself mesmerized by the people around us.
My father often referred to my mother as “Mrs. Storyteller” because she took great delight in speculating about the backstories of fellow restaurant diners.
“Do you see that couple over there?” she’d whisper. “I think they’re on a first date.” Or, “She’s angry because his mother often pops in unannounced for dinner, acting like a restaurant critic. Her criticism comes disguised as compliments: ‘Do you think this might be a touch too spicy for the kids?’ she’ll ask, or ‘Aren’t you worried about the sodium?’”
So, at this chic restaurant, I practiced my own storytelling skills. When three men at the next table ordered three different bottles of wine, I decided they must be finance bros on an expense account. When a couple was seated and then suddenly left before ordering, I guessed the menu gave them sticker shock. And then I noticed her – a girl of about nine – having dinner with her parents. At least that was the story I was telling myself. She was dressed up a little: a dress, a stylish jean jacket, a bow in her hair. I looked at her and told Richard, “I was that little girl.”
There’s a big age gap between me and my older sisters, so by the time I turned ten, I was essentially an only child. That was the year my sister Jaimee went off to college. As the “late child,” I lived a very different existence than my sisters, who came along when my parents were young, just starting out – also known as that time in life when disposable income is more theory than fact.
By the time I reached ten, things had changed. I enjoyed frequent dinners out with my parents and many trips to Florida to escape the cold New York winters. I always missed my big sisters, and any visit home from them was the highlight of my year. But I also relished the chance to have my parents all to myself. Now that I’m a parent, I see those years differently. I understand that the house was a little calmer, life a little easier, and that having just one kid left in the nest might have felt like a gentle exhale. At least, that’s what my mother used to tell me. And I think she meant it.
Watching that family, I was tempted to walk over and tell them to soak it all in – the sweetness of being three at a table, the simple luxury of a shared meal, the gift of time together. These moments feel ordinary while you’re living them, but they’re the ones you carry forward. The ones that quietly shape you.
Let the good times roll, I wanted to say. Just don’t take them for granted.
THE LOWDOWN
Cove Farmers Market
WHEN: Saturdays | 9am – 1pm
WHERE: The Cove, 1582 SE Third Court, Deerfield Beach
PRICE: Free
WHERE: Enjoy the farmers market every Saturday from 9am to 1pm at the Cove Shopping Center (located just off Hillsboro Boulevard, east of Federal Highway on the south side of the street). The market runs through May. This new community gathering spot will feature diverse local vendors offering fresh produce, farm eggs, grape pies, small-batch grass-fed beef jerky, sourdough breads and bagels, homemade baked goods, coffee and teas, fresh smoothies and cold-pressed juices, microgreens, mushrooms, all-natural dog treats, artisan skincare products, soaps, candles, and much more to come!
Pier Under the Stars
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025 | 6pm – 8pm
WHERE: International Fishing Pier, 200 NE 21st Ave., Deerfield Beach
PRICE: $50 per person
WHERE: Pier Under the Stars offers an evening to mix, mingle, and shine on Deerfield Beach’s newly reopened International Fishing Pier. On Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, from 6pm to 8pm, guests can enjoy live entertainment, ocean breezes, and shimmering lights, along with coastal-inspired light bites, refreshing drinks, and a keepsake gift. Tickets are $50 per person and include two complimentary drinks; guests must be 21 years of age or older. Visit deerfield-beach.com/2256/PierUnder-the-Stars for more information.
Outdoor Flea Market
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 | 9am – 1pm
WHERE: Charlotte Burrie Center, 2669 N Federal Highway, Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free admission
WHERE: Browse over 25 vendors at this outdoor market, featuring toys, tools, books, clothing, crafts, and more. Admission is free, and shoppers can enjoy a fun morning of treasure hunting with friends and family at the Charlotte Burrie Center.
Gardening for Small Spaces
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025 | 9am – 12pm
WHERE: Patricia Davis Community Garden, 1089 NW Sixth Ave., Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free
WHERE: Learn tips and techniques for growing plants in limited spaces at the Patricia Davis Community Garden on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, from 9am to 12pm. Discover ways to maximize patios, balconies, and small yards with smart gardening solutions. The workshop is free. To register or inquire, contact William Sidwell at 561-245-0815 or pdcg@thefruitfulfield.org.
Loxahatchee Pontoon Cruise
WHEN: Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 4:30pm – 7pm(check-in: 4:15pm)
WHERE: Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge, 10216 Lee Road, Boynton Beach
PRICE: $44.52 plus $10 entry fee
WHERE: Get ready for a magical evening. Climb aboard the Heron Now Boat Tours pontoon boat for a leisurely cruise to enjoy the sunset over the beautiful wetlands. This event is a perfect opportunity to unwind and take in the stunning views of nature while watching birds and other wildlife settle in for the night. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! This event is for ages 10 and older. Bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, bug spray, and sunglasses! Expert birder and avian ecologist Mike Baranski will serve as our boat captain and field guide for this sunset cruise. Mike is a USCG-certified captain.
WHERE: Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 W Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free
WHERE: Eat, shop, and explore local at the Pompano Beach Green Market! From November through April, every second and fourth Saturday, step into a vibrant marketplace where community spirit meets fresh flavors. Presented by the Pompano Beach Historical Society and the City of Pompano Beach, this event is a feast for the senses! From farm-fresh fruits and veggies, artisanal juices, and mouthwatering baked goods, to locally sourced honey, seafood, and exotic orchids – you’ll find it all. Discover handmade crafts, art, and wellness products that make each visit a unique adventure.
• 9am – 10am | Free Yoga on the Lawn, led by Nzingah Oniwosan
• 10am - 12pm | Kids Crafts
• 12pm – 1pm | Family Cultural Dance Sampler hosted by instructors of Ashanti Cultural Arts featuring a free one-hour cultural heritage presentation and instructor-led dance class.
WHERE: Scotty McCreery has been a well-known figure since 2011, when he became the first country artist and youngest male artist to debut a studio album, the Platinum-certified Clear as Day, at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200. His latest album, Rise & Fall, features his sixth No. 1 single, “Cab in a Solo,” and explores themes such as heartbreak, nostalgia, and fatherhood, all delivered with his rich baritone vocals and insightful storytelling. Spencer Crandall will open the concert.
Andrea Bocelli in Concert
WHEN: Sunday, December 21, 2025 | 7:30pm
WHERE: Kaseya Center, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami
PRICE: $100.62 - $858.78
WHERE: Andrea Bocelli returns to Miami for his 2025 holiday tour conducted by Maestro Steven Mercurio. The tour will feature performances from Bocelli’s extensive repertoire, including music in honor of the holiday season, with selections from his recent No. 1 album A Family Christmas and the Deluxe Edition, his uplifting solo album Believe, his arias, his beloved crossover hits and famed love songs.
WHERE: Cultural venues throughout Pompano Beach. WHERE: The Eighth Annual Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival is a three-day poetry festival that serves the community through educational, theatrical, and literary performances. The festival will nurture, support, and showcase regional, national, and international writers, facilitators, and artists from all over the country to honor the creative genius of our own cultural arts pioneers. The festival includes writing workshops, artists’ talks, and the Slam Poetry competition. In its seventh year, the Exit 36 objectives remain the same – to pay homage to poetry, spoken word, literacy, community engagement, and to celebrate the arts. The three-day event attracts the premier spoken word artists in the country and will take place December 11 - 13, 2025, at Pompano’s cultural venues. Visit pompanobeachfl.gov/ events for event details.
Tovah Feldshuh: Out Of Her Mind
WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 | 2pm and 7pm WHERE: Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 W Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach PRICE: $75
WHERE: For years, Tovah Feldshuh has been wowing audiences worldwide with her one-woman shows. Her journey began with “Tovah Crossovah: From Broadway To Cabaret!” at the famed Algonquin Oak Room, then evolved through “Tovah: Party Of Ten,” “Tovah The Tour,” and “The Best Of Tovah Feldshuh,” culminating in “Tovah: Out Of Her Mind!” – an eight-week sold-out engagement at Playhouse 91 in New York. She is currently part of the ensemble cast of the Netflix series “Nobody Wants This,” where she plays Bina Roklov, the mother of the main character, Noah.
Ms. Feldshuh sings songs from Gershwin to Judy Collins. She inhabits a gallery of hilarious characters – ages 8 to 80 – ranging from socialite Muffy Brooke Asthma Alsop on Park Avenue to Grandma Ada in the Bronx.
The Lives of Joni Mitchell & Leonard Cohen Cabaret Show
WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025 | 2pm – 5pm
WHERE: Pompano Beach
Cultural Center, 50 W Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach
PRICE: $59
WHERE: “Two singer-songwriters sit on the edge of a cliff ...” With these words, we are introduced to Both Sides Now, a theatrical concert that delves into the music and lives of Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen. The cabaret-style performance travels through decades, featuring songs such as “A Case of You,” “Hallelujah,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Suzanne,” and many more. Both Sides Now is at once a piece of the ‘60s and ‘70s, while remaining relevant to today – offering us a story about the messiness of being human and of finding the courage to turn toward one another, again and again.
Unseen Art Exhibition
WHEN: Through Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026
WHERE: Pompano Beach Cultural Center (Gallery), 50 W Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free
WHERE: In an era defined by algorithms and artificial intelligence, Unseen provides a space to pause, breathe, and appreciate the value that lies beneath the surface. The exhibit delves into the depths of human emotion, revealing the complexities beyond appearances, through seven large-scale canvases that bring hidden inner worlds to the surface. Built in layered color techniques that create visual and emotional resonance, the works invite viewers to reflect on vulnerability, connection, and the power of feeling.
David Foster & Katharine McPhee
WHEN: Sunday, December 14, 2025 | 7pm
WHERE: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 Southwest Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale
PRICE: $53 – $176
WHERE: David Foster is known for discovering talents like Celine Dion, Josh Groban, and Michael Bublé. Foster has created hit songs for artists including Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Andrea Bocelli, Chicago, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind Fire, Natalie Cole, Michael Bolton, Seal, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, and Gloria Estefan.
Sunday Jazz Brunch
WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025 | 11am – 2pm
WHERE: Esplanade Park, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale
PRICE: Free
WHERE: This free outdoor concert series showcases the best local jazz talent on three different stages, held on the first Sunday of each month from 11am to 2pm. Unwind and enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk at the Sunday Jazz Brunch. Well-behaved leashed pets are welcome. Visitors can spread out chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets while enjoying the excellent music. Guests can also explore the historic brick-lined walkway, browse items from local merchants, and savor food from nearby restaurants – all while the jazz plays on.
Albert Cummings Live
WHEN: Wednesday, December 10, 2025 | 7pm
WHERE: Crazy Uncle Mikes, 6450 N Federal Highway, Boca Raton
PRICE: $24.80
WHERE: Albert Cummings is an American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for his commanding guitar work and soulful voice. He draws inspiration from Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B. King, and Jimi Hendrix, blending blues, rock, and Texas flair. His powerful performances and technical skill have earned him a dedicated following.
Seussical
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6 2025
WHERE: Amaturo Theater at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale
WHERE: Student performers bring Dr. Seuss’s whimsical world to the stage in a colorful, music filled tale featuring Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, and the Cat in the Hat. Recommended for grades K–5. Visit browardcenter.org for prices, showtimes and more information.
SensoryInclusive: Disney’s Frozen
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 | 1:30pm
WHERE: Amaturo Theater at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale WHERE: A sensory inclusive performance of Disney’s Frozen designed to create a welcoming environment for all audiences. Adjusted sound and lighting, relaxed house rules, and designated quiet areas support guests’ comfort throughout the show. Visit browardcenter. org for prices and more information.
Julian Castro
Experience Luxury Living
Harry Pollack is a passionate real estate agent in South Florida, specializing in luxury waterfront properties. He is deeply involved in the offshore boating community and is also a pilot who enjoys flying around the Bahamas and South Florida. Harry is known for his authenticity and down-toearth approach, and he takes the time to show clients the waterfront lifestyle he enjoys. Whether by land, air, or sea, Harry provides a unique experience for his clients, finding properties that truly embody their lifestyles and make their dreams a reality.
John Mulaney: Mr. Whatever
WHEN: Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 7pm
WHERE: Hard Rock Live, Hollywood PRICE: $75 and up
WHERE: John Mulaney is a three-time Emmy winning writer, comedian, and actor. He currently hosts, writes, and executive produces his Netflix talk show Everybody’s Live With John Mulaney. Mulaney has appeared in the last two seasons of FX’s Emmy-winning series THE BEAR. His award-winning specials include the Emmy-winning Kid Gorgeous (2018), The Comeback Kid (2015), and New In Town (2012). Mulaney has hosted Saturday Night Live six times and was a writer for the show starting in 2008.
An Evening with Bruce Hornsby
WHEN: Thursday, December 11, 2025 | 7:30pm
WHERE: Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker , 707 NE Eight St., Fort Lauderdale PRICE: $46 - $65
P.J. Rossi
WHERE: Three-time Grammy® winner Bruce Hornsby has built one of the most diverse, collaborative, and adventurous careers in contemporary music. The creatively insatiable pianist and singer-songwriter has always succeeded on his exceptional gifts, his training, and his work ethic. He became a global name in music by reimagining American roots forms as songs that moved with the atmospheric grace of jazz. Hornsby has collaborated with the Grateful Dead, Spike Lee, and Ricky Skaggs, to name a few. Hornsby’s songs, both in spirit and memory, function collectively as an homage to fiction writing that, while often poetic, takes no prisoners.
Many things have changed in the last 31 years since Pamela Rossi founded her jewelry boutique in Lauderdale-By-TheSea. The town has evolved, the world has transformed, and the store has undergone changes as well, but thankfully, we are all older and wiser.
WHEN: Saturday, December 27, 2025 – Sunday, December 28, 2025 | 8pm
WHERE: Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood
PRICE: $178 - $1,132
WHERE: Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter and multi-GRAMMY award winner. She has sold over 95 million records worldwide and has won numerous awards including four GRAMMYs, fifteen Latin GRAMMYs, and multiple World Music Awards, American Music Awards, and Billboard Music Awards, to name a few. She is the most-viewed female Latin artist, and one of the top 10 artists of all time on YouTube with over 27 billion cumulative views, and the most-streamed female Latin artist of all time on Spotify.
Jerry Seinfeld
WHEN: Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 8pm
WHERE: Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood PRICE: $103 – $449
WHERE: Jerry Seinfeld is an American comedian, actor, writer, and producer best known for co-creating and starring in the hit sitcom Seinfeld, often called “a show about nothing.” Renowned for his observational humor and sharp wit, he’s also the creator and host of Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. Lucky for everyone, Mr. Seinfeld is still performing stand-up to sold out crowds.
What has remained constant is her unwavering commitment to providing excellent customer service and a selection of elegant fine diamond and gemstone jewelry. Pamela and her talented team take pride in offering expert jewelry repair and state-of-the-art jewelry making using computer-aided design and manufacturing, all accomplished in-store. With over four decades of experience in designing, making, and selecting jewelry, Pamela has developed a keen eye for finding the most beautiful pieces at competitive prices. Every year, she travels to Antwerp, Belgium, to hand-select the finest diamonds in the world, ensuring that customers have access to traceable, natural diamonds right in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea.
This holiday season, how can Pamela and her team help you celebrate your love and lives together? Call or text 954-4929133. They would love to welcome you to the P.J. Rossi family!
HAPPY SNAPS
The World of Pink Steps of Strength Fashion Show
Galuppi’s, Pompano Beach • October 21, 2025
The World of Pink Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to breast cancer aftercare. Their fashion show was a true celebration of courage, love, and community during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Pompanista Fashion Show & Lunch
The Hillsboro Club, Hillsboro Beach
PHOTOS BY EMILY CRINITI PHOTOGRAPHY
4241 NE 23 Terrace, Lighthouse Point
Boat Show Kick-Off Open House
Celebrate the voices, stories, and sounds that shaped our culture. From festive classics to soul-stirring tributes and electrifying rock anthems.
TIMELESS HOLIDAYS
3
Success Loves Speed
The GSD Mindset
BY CRAIG HALEY
In business and in life, speed wins. Success doesn’t wait for you to get comfortable, and opportunity doesn’t linger while you overthink. “Casualness leads to casualties.” Those who move fast, decide fast, and execute fast outpace everyone else. The GSD (Get Sh*t Done) mindset isn’t about being reckless – it’s about being decisive, bold, and action-oriented. What stops people from acting quickly and achieving big?
tion you gain – and the better your next move becomes. Execution beats analysis every time.
Sarah Blakely didn’t ask permission to shove Spanx into department stores. Richard Branson didn’t wait for approval to start an airline. They acted first and refined later. The world rewards action, not permission slips. Nike said it best: Just do it – and then tell us what you did.
Step 1: Perfectionism — Fear in Disguise
Perfectionism is fear wearing a costume. It’s not about being thoughtful – it’s about being terrified. Done is better than perfect. If Jeff Bezos had waited for Amazon to be flawless, it would still be a clunky online bookstore with a dial-up modem.
Mark Zuckerberg said it best: “Done is better than perfect.” Perfectionism kills momentum. Progress happens when you move, not when you polish.
Step 2: Overthinking — The Silent Killer of Progress
It’s better to be 80% right and fast than 100% right and bankrupt. Overthinking delays decisions, and delay is death in business. Momentum creates clarity. The faster you move, the more informa-
How can you start Getting Sh** Done now?
STRATEGIES
TO
BUILD SPEED
1. Set Ridiculous Deadlines.
If you think something will take a month, give yourself a week. Think it’ll take a week? Do it in a day. Bill Dyson said, “Give yourself a ridiculous deadline – and stick to it.” Urgency sharpens focus.
2. Ready, Fire, Aim.
Stop waiting for the perfect plan. Take action, then course-correct. The feedback you get from execution is worth ten times more than the fantasy of planning.
3. Create a Culture of Now.
You set the tone. Respond to emails, texts, and calls immediately. Make “now” your default speed. Momentum is contagious.
Your Action Plan
1. Finish the project you’ve been revising. You have 72 hours. Get it done.
2. Make the decision you’ve been postponing. Don’t wait for certainty—create opportunity.
3. Cut your response times in half.
Speed up everything—calls, replies, meetings, launches.
Success loves speed. The fast devour the slow. In a world that rewards execution, your competitive advantage is velocity. Stop waiting. Start doing. Y
Master Shihan Craig Haley is the Eighth Degree Black Belt instructor at Elite Force Martial Arts, eliteforcemartialarts.com.
From Naughty to Nice
Forgiveness as a Holiday Gift
BY MICHELLE HAYS
The holidays are full of lists. Gift lists, grocery lists, to-do lists, even Santa’s famous “naughty or nice” list. And if we’re honest, many of us secretly keep another kind of list… the running tally of every wrong our spouse has committed. It’s not written on paper, but it lives in our mind: the time they didn’t notice our new haircut, the argument that ended with sharp words, the chore we had to remind them about repeatedly. These little marks against our partner add up, and before long, we’ve created a private “naughty list” in our relationship. But here’s the problem: living from that list breeds resentment. It weighs down connection and turns love into a scorecard. And in marriage, keeping score means no one really wins.
So, today I’m inviting you to flip the script. Instead of keeping track of every shortcoming, what if we treated forgiveness like the greatest gift we could give? Unlike presents under the tree, forgiveness doesn’t cost money, doesn’t need wrapping paper, and never goes out of style. Forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending something didn’t hurt or brushing it under the rug. It means choosing not to let the offense take center stage. Forgiveness is a rest button! It makes space for joy, warmth and connection! It’s the very thing this season is supposed to be about.
I’ll admit, I am not immune to resentment. One December, I was already stretched thin… decorating, shopping, cooking, and trying to make the season magical. Brian walked in one evening and
asked, “Are you going to put up the Christmas village?” Now, this wasn’t just any decoration. Our Christmas village is something he loves, a tradition that fills him with childlike joy. But it’s also many hours of work. It’s unpacking, arranging, wiring tiny lights. In that moment, I felt the sting of resentment rise: “I’m already doing everything, and now you want me to do this too?!” I wanted to make Brian happy. And yes, I could have held onto my irritation, but I intentionally chose forgiveness and asked if we could do it together instead. I smiled at Brian as we pulled out the boxes and set up the village together. As we plugged in the final lights and the little houses glowed, I looked at his face, lit with happiness. My heart leaped. What began as a point of tension turned into a memory of connection. Forgiveness had quietly opened the door. Love always offers us a choice if we take a breath and think about it.
Let’s remember that forgiveness isn’t about dramatic gestures. It’s woven into the daily decisions we make. Letting go of the scorecard, reminding ourselves that love isn’t about tallying who does more or who’s right. It’s about showing up for each other in the best way we can. It also means choosing words that mend instead of words that wound. Saying, “That hurt my feelings,” can create far more closeness than rattling off a long list of past mistakes. It’s letting go of the scorecard, choosing words that heal, and deciding that closeness matters more than being right. It is asking ourselves, “Do I want to win this argument, or do I want to feel close to my spouse?”
When we look back on Christmases past, we won’t remember every detail of the gifts or the table settings. What we remember are the moments when love whispered louder. When we forgave quickly, we hugged tightly and chose each other anyway. And yes, the cookies will burn, the lights will tangle, and somebody will forget the whipped cream for the pie. But forgiveness is the gift that turns a not-so-silent night back into one filled with connection. And really, what better gift could we give each other than that? Y
Financial Habits that Build Long-Term Wealth
BY GREG EDWARDS
As the year draws to a close, many individuals take time to reflect on their health, relationships, and goals for the year ahead. It is also the perfect opportunity to take inventory of your financial habits. While investment performance and market conditions often capture the headlines, the foundation of longterm wealth rarely hinges on a single market event. Instead, it is the result of consistent, intentional behaviors practiced over time. Establishing strong financial habits early in the year can set the tone for financial success and stability for decades to come.
Start Fresh in the New Year
should be a reassessment of financial objectives and the timeline to achieve them.
Prioritize Cash Flow and Liquidity
One of the most overlooked components of wealth management is cash flow. Managing liquidity ensures that opportunities can be pursued and that market downturns do not force untimely asset sales. Maintaining an appropriate balance between invested assets and accessible reserves helps preserve flexibility. A review of monthly spending, savings rates, and available cash can help identify inefficiencies or missed opportunities to redirect funds toward higher priorities, such as retirement accounts or investment contributions.
Develop a Clear Financial Vision
Building lasting wealth begins with clarity. High-net-worth families and successful professionals often operate with a well-defined financial vision, an understanding of what their wealth is designed to accomplish. Whether that involves financial independence, legacy creation, or the ability to support future generations, defining the “why” behind financial decisions allows for more consistent and confident planning. Without direction, even the best investments or strategies can lose their purpose. The first step in the new year
Commit to a Disciplined Investment Approach
Markets will always fluctuate, but wealth is built through discipline and perspective. Emotional reactions to short-term volatility often lead to decisions that hinder longterm progress. A well-constructed investment plan, aligned with risk tolerance and goals, provides a roadmap through unpredictable markets. Rebalancing portfolios at year-end can help maintain alignment with strategic targets, harvest tax losses where appropriate, and reinforce a disciplined approach to portfolio management.
Optimize Tax Efficiency
Taxes can quietly erode wealth if left unmanaged. High-income investors can benefit significantly from proactive tax strategies, including maximizing retirement plan contributions, utilizing taxloss harvesting, and strategically timing capital gains. Reviewing realized gains and losses before year-end can uncover opportunities to reduce taxable income. Additionally, understanding the interplay between investment income, tax brackets, and deductions can inform better decision-making for the upcoming year.
FINANCIAL FITNESS
Protect and Preserve
Long-term wealth is not just about accumulation; it is also about preservation. Insurance planning, asset protection structures, and estate documents should be revisited annually to ensure they reflect current circumstances and objectives. For families with significant assets, incorporating trusts and coordinated estate strategies can provide both tax efficiency and generational continuity. A review of beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, and risk management coverage ensures that unforeseen events do not derail progress.
Plan Collaboratively
Wealth rarely grows in isolation. Successful families and business owners often surround themselves with a coordinated team of advisors—financial planners, CPAs, and attorneys—who collaborate to create a unified strategy. Each professional brings a specialized perspective, but true effectiveness emerges when all work together toward a shared vision. Year-end and the start of a new year are ideal times to bring these advisors together to review performance, discuss tax positioning, and adjust strategies based on evolving goals or new regulations. Focus on Legacy and PurposeFinally, the accumulation of wealth is most meaningful when it aligns with personal values. For some, this may mean creating opportunities for children and grandchildren. For others, it involves ensuring that assets support a comfortable retirement lifestyle or contribute to community impact in a structured way. Clarity of purpose provides motivation and accountability. As part of year-end planning, take time to revisit what wealth means beyond the numbers.
Strong financial habits are the cornerstone of enduring wealth. While markets and tax laws will change, the principles of discipline, clarity, and collaboration remain constant. As a new year begins, individuals and families have the opportunity to reinforce the behaviors that sustain prosperity, reviewing goals, refining strategies, and staying focused on what truly matters. The most successful wealth builders are not defined by timing or luck, but by the consistency with which they align their actions to their long-term vision.
For guidance in strengthening your financial plan for the year ahead, contact Greg and his team today at 561-361-8140 or email gwe@lawlessedwardswarren.com
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: Representatives of AIC/AAS do not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor or attorney regarding your situation. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All investing involves risks, including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk in all market environments. Representatives offer products and services using the following business names: Lawless, Edwards & Warren – insurance and financial services | Ameritas Investment Company, LLC (AIC), Member FINRA/SIPC – securities and investments | Ameritas Advisory Services, LLC (AAS) – investment advisory services. AIC and AAS are not affiliated with Lawless, Edwards, & Warren.
The Many Reasons to Avoid Probate
BY MARTIN ZEVIN, ATTORNEY
You have heard that probate is something to avoid; however, unless you have been through it, you may not understand why. Here are some basic facts about probate in Florida:
1. Full probate (assets over $75,000 or under $75,000 with creditors) takes at least six months to a year or longer. During that time, the assets being probated are tied up. If your heirs want to sell your home in probate, they must go through a formal process. This includes filing a petition to administer the estate. If successful, the Judge of the probate court will sign an rrder called letters of administration. This could take one to three months.
2. The next step is notice to creditors published in a newspaper. This must be done even if there are no creditors. Creditors have 90 days from the date of first publication to file a claim against the estate. Nothing can be done regarding distribution of the assets until after the ninety days.
3. A tax id number from the IRS must be obtained for the estate. Once the personal representative (executor) obtains the
letters of administration and the tax id number, an estate account can be opened to transfer any funds from an account or future proceeds from the sale of a home or other real estate. If real estate is involved, a court order is generally necessary to allow the closing and another court order may be necessary to distribute proceeds.
4. A formal inventory must be filed listing exact date of death values of all assets being probated.
5. A formal accounting may be necessary if all beneficiaries do not agree to waive it.
6. Once all distributions are made, the estate cannot be closed without another court order.
7. If an estate asset is discovered after the personal representative has been discharged by the court, the estate must be reopened and more formalities must be followed.
8. The attorney’s fees can be quite high, depending on the value of the estate. Florida law authorizes a 3% fee on the first million dollars, and a sliding percentage thereafter. The personal representative can negotiate with the lawyer for a lower
fee. If the estate is valued at $700,000 and the fee is reduced from 3% to 2%, that is still a $14,000 fee, plus about $1,000 in court costs for filing fees, publication in the newspaper, etc. An attorney can also charge an hourly rate, but this could easily exceed the 3%, particularly on smaller estates.
9. The personal representative will probably need to pay money out of pocket for initial costs and a Retainer for the attorney, plus funeral bills if not already pre-paid. In addition, if real estate is involved, the personal representative may have to pay taxes, utilities, maintenance, mortgage payments etc. until access to estate funds is authorized. The personal representatives will reimburse themselves at that time, but it could cause hardship if personal funds are limited.
10. All of the above is stressful and time consuming for the personal representative. Although a fee is allowed, this could be an issue if family members or other beneficiaries object.
That is just a brief summary of why it is so crucial to have proper and complete estate planning with a lawyer to be sure that ALL assets avoid probate. A revocable living trust or a Life estate deed are two possible solutions. Please refer to many of my other articles for practical and detailed tips on avoiding probate.
My Dad used to say: “May you live as long as you want and never want as long as you live.” I will add: when you die, may your heirs avoid probate! Y
Martin Zevin is available to discuss wills, trusts, estates, probate and is available for free consultation regarding personal injury claims or car insurance coverage. For more information call 954-569-4878 or visit martinzevinpa.com.
Holiday Fishing Fun
BY JOHN PIOTROWSKI
There is something exciting about fishing during the holidays. Down here in Southeast Florida, our December is like a mild fall for most other places. It’s usually cooler, and we often experience stretches between fronts where the offshore forecast can be particularly pleasant. We usually start thinking about sailfishing tournaments and wahoo trips to the Bahamas from November through January. However, I must say that the dolphin fishing this fall was just as good, if not better, than our peak season in April through June. There have been more fish and bigger fish around than we saw earlier
this year. Don’t completely rule out a quick pop off shore to look for debris, birds and weeds.
The lobster have been plentiful and they are starting to walk. They have been shallow on the reefs, too. The water is still comfortable for those of you who like to dive and spearfish – it’s great right now! Lots of fish on the reefs.
If you are fishing, the best thing to do this time of year is to set your boat up to drift/fly kites, using live bait fish. If you have moderate wind, you can set yourself up where you drift from 350’ in to 100’, and you can put up a kite and fish three lines
or two kites and six lines if you’re feeling frisky. Make sure you go over your kites, kite rods, connections and settings before you go out so that you don’t have to mess around trying to get your kite set-ups working when you’re out there in prime time fishing. You may or may not want to use a sea anchor. It’s good to have one.
You should also have a box of sardines and some big bucktail jigs. We have always had success putting a big bucktail jig out – you can leave the rod in the rod holder with the jig hovering just a few feet off the bottom with a whole sardine on. You would be surprised at what will hammer that – big snapper, grouper, kings, wahoo, jacks and others. Then we usually have two to three flat lines which fish the opposite way of the kite baits – this way you are covering both sides of the boat and all parts of the water column. Having a light breakaway lead on one or two of the flat lines is a good idea, too.
We always bring a few fishing rods that are ready for vertical jigging. The wrecks in 200-300’ are usually pretty loaded this time of year. That is a lot of work, but if you drift over the wrecks in such a way that you can reach bottom with your jig and retrieve it quickly, you can hook some mean fish.
TOP LEFT Carl Treys with winter Lobster
TOP RIGHT Rob Roy with a black drum he reeled in
Don’t forget to keep an eye on your bottom machine. Mark spots that look good or that are holding fish. That might be a good spot for today or another day. I know it sounds like homework, but keeping a journal of your fishing trips with dates, times, weather, depths, bait, and results can help you over time.
If you have a really calm day this time of year, start your day trolling planers with strip baits and ballyhoo on the surface for an hour or two in the early morning. That allows you to cover some ground and get an idea of what is going on with current and bait, etc. Learning to read the conditions helps you catch fish more consistently. Sometimes, the currents, rips, and water color can vary significantly in just a few miles. If you’re going out of the Hillsborough inlet, you should check the conditions south of Fort Lauderdale up to Delray Beach. Just driving to a pre-determined spot may not be the best strategy. We always look for clean, blue or purple water and current. If you find the trifecta of
current, water color and bait or rips – that’s a place to try. Don’t forget to check your safety gear, registrations, and have a float plan. The best way to ensure you don’t have any issues is to be prepared. Go out and have some fun! Y
As always, if you are looking for more information, resources, camaraderie and fun – check out the Lighthouse Point Saltwater Sportsman’s Association. www. LHPSSA.org. The club hosts meetings on the last Wednesday of the month at Galluppi’s in Pompano Beach.Happy Holidays from the LHPSSA!
RIGHT Frank Stallone proudly shows off the 50-pound wahoo he reeled in.
Stay Calm
and Make a Casserole
BY MRS. KOSSENFLOFFER
Who feels like cooking dinner when you’re busy planning a holiday feast? If you have out-of-town guests expecting to be fed the night before the big dinner, don’t panic. This is where a make-ahead meal comes in handy. This Tex-Mex casserole can be prepared in advance and parked in the refrigerator or even frozen weeks ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve it, simply defrost it in the refrigerator for 24 hours, then bake it to perfection. If you’re not hosting a large gathering this holiday season, you can easily halve the recipe. Prepare it over the weekend and freeze it for a convenient weeknight dinner later on.
(Make Ahead) Tex-Mex Cornbread Casserole
Ingredients
For the cornbread
2 boxes cornbread mix (such as Jiffy), divided
2/3 cup milk
2 eggs
3 cups cheddar cheese, grated, divided
For the Filling
1 pound ground beef
1 pound chorizo, casings removed
1-2 tablespoons olive oil, as needed
2 medium yellow onions, diced
2 poblano peppers, diced
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 chipotle peppers in adobe, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 15-ounce can tomatoes, crushed by hand
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 15-ounce can corn (or use frozen)
1 15-ounce can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
Optional toppings: sliced scallions, chopped white or red onion, sour cream, hot sauce, avocado, fresh or pickled jalapeños, cilantro
Preparation
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 x 13” baking dish and set aside.
• Prepare one box of cornbread mix according to the package directions. Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake the cornbread until it starts to set, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and set aside until the filling is ready.
Make the Filling
• In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef and chorizo until fully cooked and no pink remains. Using a slotted spoon, remove the meat from the pan and set it aside. Drain all but 1-2 tablespoons of fat from the pan. (If needed, add a little olive oil to the pan.)
• Next, add the poblano peppers, onions, chili powder, cumin, and oregano to the pan. Sauté until soft. Then, add the garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the chipotle peppers and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Sauté for about 2 minutes to cook the tomato paste. Then, add the tomatoes along with their juices. Return the cooked ground beef and chorizo to the skillet, and stir everything together until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper.
• Prepare the second box of cornbread and add about half of the cheddar.
• Spread the beef filling evenly over the bottom layer of cornbread. Sprinkle on half the cheese. Next, layer the corn and beans (if you’re using them) evenly over the cheese. Then, spread the remaining cornbread on top, making sure to distribute it as evenly as possible. Be careful not to reach the edges, as this will allow steam to escape during cooking.
• If you plan to make this dish in advance, refrigerate or freeze it at this stage. Alternatively, you can freeze it after cooking and reheat it later.
• Place the baking dish on a rimmed sheet pan to catch any spills, and bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Note: If cooking from the fridge, allow about 15 additional minutes. This recipe is incredibly flexible. Skip the beans or corn, or double them. Or use different beans. Use ground turkey to lighten it up. Or sneak in extra vegetables, such as carrots or celery, into the meat mixture. Use your imagination. Or use your favorite chili recipe for the filling. You can even skip the bottom layer of cornbread. Anything goes!
Gifts for Wine Lovers
BY DAVID EHRENFRIED
In previous years, I’ve provided modestly long lists of ideas for gifts to give to family, friends, coworkers, clients, or others who like wine. This year, I want to focus on a handful of favorite gift suggestions that nearly everyone who enjoys fine wine can enjoy, savor, save, use, peruse, read, study, or admire. Individually, none of these gifts will set you back more than a few hundred dollars. Of course, when it comes to wine, it’s possible to spend many hundreds or even thousands of dollars, especially on top wines from leading producers. Spending extravagantly, however, is not essential to give your favorite wine lovers gifts they’ll both appreciate and enjoy.
WINE SUGGESTIONS
Champagne and Sparkling Wine
Wine tops this list. What kind of wine? If you know what wine the recipient really likes, or if there’s a particular one you know
has special meaning or significance, go for that. But if you’re unsure of the recipients’ favorite wines or tastes, give French Champagne.
Champagne is festive, fun, sophisticated, and delicious. Importantly, your recipient can open the bottle right away and expect it to taste as the winemaker intended. The bottle also can be stored away in cool, dark place and enjoyed up to three or four years later. Champagne pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods and cuisines. It can be served with appetizers, main courses, or some desserts, or enjoyed just by itself. Quality Champagne’s fine bubbles and bright, fresh fruit flavors persist refreshingly for hours.
Like many luxuries, French Champagne can be pricy. Expect to pay between $50 and $90 for a good non-vintage (NV) bottle of Champagne. (NV means the Champagne was made from grapes har-
vested during multiple years.) There’s also vintage Champagne (made from grapes harvested in the same year), but its cost pops. For the right person, though, such extravagance won’t go unappreciated. As for which brand of Champagne to give, it’s hard to go wrong sticking to leading producers, such as Billicart-Salmon and Pol Roger (two of my favorites), among others like Piper-Heidsieck, Charles Heidsieck, Veuve-Cliquot, Louis Roederer, Moët & Chandon, Henri Billiot, Tattinger, Ruinart, and Perrier-Jouët. There are many other excellent producers. A knowledgeable salesperson should be able to help. If Champagne’s expense puts it out of the question, there are less expensive sparkling wines. Crêmant is French sparkling wine made outside Champagne. More affordable options include cava from Spain and sparkling wines from California, Oregon, New Mexico, and Virginia.. Some
leading California sparkling wine producers include Schramsberg, Sharffenberger, and J, as well as several producers owned in whole or part by well-known Champagne houses and bearing their names. These sparkling wines are generally very tasty and less expensive than French Champagne, although some more limited bottlings rival the steep prices and superior quality of top Champagne.
Bottle of Red, Bottle of White
If you prefer to give someone a special bottle of red or white still wine, I suggest giving premium wines that can be enjoyed fully when they’re released, such as pinot noir or chardonnay from California or Oregon. Don’t give expensive bottles of recent vintages of barolo, Bordeaux, cabernet sauvignon, or other high tannin wines with an expectation that such wines could be enjoyed at their best now. People often drink these wines too soon and are disappointed, wondering why they’re so expensive. By contrast, nearly all California pinot noir and chardonnay wines are ready to be fully enjoyed when released. There are many outstanding choices online and in good wine stores that typically sell in the $30-$100 range. Better pinots are easy drinking, having smooth textures and deep cherry and red or dark berry flavors among other tastes and aromas. Earthy and herbal flavors are also common. The best can be ethereal. My favorites come from the Oregon’s Willamette Valley and California’s Sonoma, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey counties.
Bold Reds to Drink Now
If your recipient prefers more intense red wines, consider these kinds of recent vintage wines that often can be enjoyed
Wineglasses
when released: syrah from California, Washington State, France, and Australia (usually labeled Shiraz); Spanish rioja reserva or gran reserva; and Italian chianti classico riserva or gran riserva. Another favorite of mine to consider is chateauneufde-pape, a beguilingly delicious blend of grenache, syrah, and other grapes from France’s Southern Rhône region. It costs about the same as Champagne.
California Chardonnay
There is a bewildering assortment of California chardonnay. But for a gift, my suggestion is to zero in on those made in Sonoma or Santa Barbara counties. Some, like many from the Sonoma Coast and Santa Barbara County, are steely and light, like French chablis, with apple, pear, and other flavors. Others are more full-bodied with a buttery texture and apple, stone fruit, and very noticeable oak and vanilla flavors. Some are in between. Most premium bottles will cost between $20 and $90, but there are some that cost more.
Lighter Whites
A lighter, more citrusy alternative to chardonnay is sauvignon blanc, in particular sancerre, which comes from the town by the same name in France’s Loire Valley. Sancerre wines generally cost between $25 and $60. There are other excellent sauvignon blanc wines from many regions around the world, but good sancerre has cache and remains the standard by which all similarly made sauvignon blanc wines may be compared. Sancerre is a lovely gift for wine lovers who like fresh and uplifting dry wines with bright, scrumptious combinations of lemon, melon, and crisp apple and other fruit flavors and aromas along floral scents. Y
Wine Gizmos
A great gift for those who enjoy a glass or two of good wine at home but worry about leftovers going bad is Coravin. This device allows you to pour small amounts of wine without uncorking the bottle, keeping the rest fresh for months or even years. It’s ideal for people who want to sample aging wines or try from multiple bottles, similar to how wine bars and restaurants expand their wine-bythe-glass options.
Coravin works by using a patented method to insert a long hypodermic-like needle through the cork to pour wine while simultaneously injecting harmless and tasteless argon gas. The argon gas displaces the space left in the bottle by the poured wine, protecting the remaining wine from contact with air. Coravin devices sell for between $100 and $300, depending on discounts attachments, and the number of gas cartridges.
If you’re looking for an affordable gift for a wine lover, consider a batteryoperated corkscrew. Popular brands like Rabbit, Oster, and Cuisinart range from $30 to $125 and remove corks automatically at the push of a button. However, they may crumble older corks. For aged wines, an Ah-So cork remover is effective and typically costs $25 to $50. It features two metal prongs that slide between the cork and bottle neck, allowing for safe removal. The Ah-So also serves as a bottle opener and is compact for storage.
Serving wine in clean, attractive glasses enhances its appearance and taste. For still wines, choose clear glasses with large bowls (4-5 ounces) that narrow slightly at the top to allow the wine to breathe. While high-end glasses are often designed for specific wine types – large bowls for reds and smaller for whites or desserts – a midsized bowl (18-22 ounces) works well for all types, including Champagne. I typically pour three ounces at a time.
Wine glass prices vary tremendously, ranging from under $30 to over $200 for two. You can find wide choices among wine glasses online as well as in wine, kitchen supply, and department stores. There are many reliable, modestly-priced brands, such as Spieglau, Zweisel, and store brands like Williams-Sonoma and Wine Enthusiast. Some pricier brands include Riedel, Zalto, Glasvin, Gabriel-Glas, and Josephinenhütte. They all make great gifts.
SEASON OF Sparkle
The holiday season is in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the festive spirit. This year, we’ve compiled a list of must-attend holiday events that promise fun, joy, and timeless traditions for everyone. From dazzling light displays and festive markets to heartwarming community gatherings, there’s something for every age and interest. Mark your calendars and get ready to make unforgettable memories with family and friends!
WHERE: Tradewinds Park, 3600 W Sample Road, Coconut Creek
PRICE: Tickets on sale soon
DETAILS: The Holiday Fantasy of Lights, Florida’s largest drive-thru holiday lighting event, will return to Coconut Creek. Tradewinds Park will once again showcase a spectacular display of color, lights, and design this holiday season.
2025 will be the 31st edition of the Holiday Fantasy of Lights! Drive through three miles of tremendous animated holiday displays and illumination. The event is larger than ever, blending the favorites of the past and the excitement of new creations by Brandano Displays. This extravaganza of lights attracts over 125,000 visitors of all ages in 25,000 cars, trucks and buses. There are also opportunities to stroll or bike through the lights.
A portion of the proceeds goes to Gilda’s Club South Florida, which offers free programming and services to families impacted by cancer. Visit https://holidaylightsdrivethru.com/ for more information.
DETAILS: Ring in the holiday season at Christmas By-The-Sea in downtown Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Browse holiday and seaside-themed gifts and crafts, write letters to Santa, and enjoy the annual tree lighting to get in the spirit.
LIGHTHOUSE A’GLOW
WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
WHERE: Frank McDonough Park, 3500 NE 27th Ave., Lighthouse Point
PRICE: Free
DETAILS: At Lighthouse A’Glow, guests are invited to join in a joyful holiday celebration. They can experience enchanting activities designed for children, marvel at the dazzling tree lighting ceremony, and delight in a special visit from Santa himself. This festive gathering is filled with warmth, laughter, and holiday magic that no one will want to miss!
YULETIDE ON ATLANTIC PARADE 2025
WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025 | 6:30pm – 9:30pm
WHERE: East Atlantic Blvd., Riverside Drive, heads west along Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free
DETAILS: This festive celebration features dazzling floats, lively performances, and joyful music, transforming Atlantic Boulevard into a winter wonderland. Bring family and friends to enjoy holiday cheer, treats, and a visit from Santa. The parade begins at 6:30pm from Riverside Drive, heads west along Atlantic Boulevard, and ends at SE 24th Ave. The judges’ stand and MC announcements will be at Harbor Drive and Atlantic Boulevard. Arrive early for the best viewing along
Friday, Dec. 5, 2025 | 5pm – 8pm
WHERE: Sistrunk Boulevard, Between NW 9th and 11th Avenues, Fort Lauderdale
PRICE: Free
DETAILS: Get ready for dancing in the streets at the hottest holiday light-up event in town with Light Up Sistrunk. This one-of-a-kind celebration features the lighting of a giant holiday tree, live bands, outstanding entertainment, a free toy giveaway, a health fair, food trucks, a kids zone complete with Santa, bounce houses, slides, and arts and crafts, plus a teen area with a DJ, activities, and more.
LINE DANCE PARTY
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025 | 6pm – 8pm
WHERE: E. Pat Larkins Community Center, 520 NW Third St., Pompano Beach
PRICE: $10 in advance | $15 at the door
DETAILS: Join the fun for a lively evening filled with festive tunes at a holiday-themed line dance party! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting out, this event promises fun for all skill levels. No partner is needed, so come ready to enjoy the rhythm and let loose! This event is open to participants ages 18 and up. Embrace the spirit of the season and kick up your heels on the dance floor!
OCEAN WAY HOLIDAY
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 | 5pm – 9pm
WHERE: Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE 21st Ave., Deerfield Beach
PRICE: Free; must pay to park
DETAILS: Join the City of Deerfield Beach for its enchanting annual Ocean Way Holiday celebration on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. Experience the magic as Ocean Way transforms into a vibrant winter wonderland, brimming with live entertainment, the cheerful presence of Santa Claus, and a variety of delightful
50TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 | 7pm
WHERE: First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale, 401 SE 15th Ave., Fort Lauderdale
PRICE: Ticketed event
DETAILS: Celebrate the season at Florida Singing Sons’ 50th Annual Holiday Concert. The evening opens with a candlelit procession to “Once in Royal David’s City,” then continues with classic carols, festive favorites, and a joyful finale of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Proceeds support
WHERE: Wahoo Bay Conservation Site, 2700 N Ocean Blvd., Pompano Beach
DETAILS: Set sail on a short boat ride with Santa, visit the SeaHives at Wahoo Bay Conservation Center, make festive crafts, and sip hot cocoa during this waterfront holiday experience. Time slots include 3:30pm, 4:30pm, and 5:30pm; registration is required. Visit https:// www.pompanobeachfl.gov/events/ santa-seahives for more information.
WHERE: Intracoastal Waterway, Begins at Lake Santa Barbara. Proceeds north past the Hillsboro Bridge. Ends at Sullivan Park at the Deerfield Beach/ Boca Raton line., Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free to watch; $25 boat entry
DETAILS: More than 50 decorated boats light up the Intracoastal for the 63rd Annual Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce Holiday Boat Parade, “Rock the Boat - Holiday Remix.” The parade begins at Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach, travels north through the Hillsboro Bridge, and finishes near Sullivan Park at the Deerfield Beach/Boca Raton border. Bridges at NE 14th Street Causeway and Atlantic Boulevard are locked in the open position from 6:15pm until the parade passes. Viewing is free along the route. VIP private viewing at Miraggio Italian Grill is reserved for event sponsors.
WINTERFEST BOAT PARADE
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 | 6pm
WHERE: New River to Intracoastal Waterway, Starts at Stranahan House on the New River, travels east to the Intracoastal Waterway, then north to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach., Fort Lauderdale
PRICE: Free viewing
DETAILS: The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade features a flotilla of illuminated boats parading along a 12mile route. The procession starts at Stranahan House, continues east to the Intracoastal, and heads north to Pompano Beach. The 2025 theme is “Paying Tribute to the Timeless Tunes That Make Us Smile.” Preshow at 5:30pm. Parade and fireworks
LIGHT UP CARTER PARK
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025 | 5pm – 8pm
WHERE: Carter Park, 1450 W Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
DETAILS: Enjoy holiday cheer and fun for the entire family! Highlights include live performances from local artists, bounce houses, train rides, face painters, holiday crafts, giveaways, and more. The free celebration culminates with the lighting of the Carter Park Holiday Tree!
$2 per participant
DETAILS: Scuba Santa makes a splash at the Peggy Noland Aquatics Complex on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, from 9am to 12pm. This family friendly event invites participants of all ages to “scuba dive” for a one of a kind holiday photo with Santa. Admission is $2 per participant, payable at the entrance; no preregistration is required. Guests are encouraged to wear festive swimwear or holiday attire. Digital photos will be emailed within one business week, thanks to a partnership with Dixie Divers.
MOVIE NIGHT WITH SANTA 2025
DONUTS WITH SANTA 2025
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 | 9am – 11am
WHERE: Emma Lou Olson Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., Pompano Beach
PRICE: $7 (tickets required; under 3 free)
DETAILS:
Santa featuring donuts, holiday fun, and an interactive game show with prize opportunities at the Emma Lou Olson Center. Tickets are required for all guests. Ages 3 and under are free (with limited availability of donuts).
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025 | 6pm – 8pm
WHERE: Herb Skolnick Center, 800 SW 36 Ave., Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free
DETAILS: Settle in for a delightful holiday movie night with Santa at the Herb Skolnick Center! Get ready to snuggle up with your loved ones to enjoy a selection of heartwarming festive films, accompanied by a variety of holiday snacks and engaging crafts. This cozy gathering promises to be a magical experience! Please note that space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot by calling 954-786-4590.
DECK THE HALLS DANCE — TREC
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
WHERE: Emma Lou Olson Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free
DETAILS: Celebrate the season at this inclusive dance for ages 13+ with developmental disabilities, featuring festive music, treats, an Ugly Sweater Contest, and games in a welcoming environment at the Emma Lou Olson Center. Registration is required at trec@copbfl.com.
WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 | 6pm
WHERE: Las Olas Oceanside Park, A1A & Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
PRICE: Free
DETAILS: Celebrate the first night of Chanukah at the Menorah Lighting Celebration! Enjoy the beautiful lighting ceremony, lively music, and tasty treats. It’s a great way to kick off the holiday season together!
TIMELESS HOLIDAYS: THE MAGIC OF MOVIE HOLIDAY HITS!
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025 | 7pm – 9pm
WHERE: Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 W Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach
PRICE: $30
DETAILS: A single melody can bring back childhood wonder, family traditions, and the joy of the season like nothing else. Timeless Tidings: The Magic of Holiday Movie Hits brings your favorite Christmas movie songs to life on stage. From the timeless elegance of White Christmas to the joyful energy of Elf, this concert captures the sound of the season. Enjoy powerful performances of holiday classics like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Believe” from The Polar Express, “Where Are You Christmas?”, and many more – all performed by a dynamic cast of vocalists and musicians.
With beautiful visuals, heartwarming stories, and festive spirit, Timeless Tidings is a holiday celebration the whole family will love.
Come share the music and joy!
This event is part of the Timeless Concert Series, which includes these four shows. Save with a Timeless Series Subscription! Get all four shows for $80.
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025 | 7pm
WHERE: Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale
PRICE: $59 and up
DETAILS: Celebrate the magic of the holidays with Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida’s production of The Nutcracker, choreographed and directed by Vladimir Issaev. This enchanting ballet brings to life the timeless tale of Clara, her mysterious godfather, Drosselmeyer, and a magical journey to the Kingdom of Sweets—a beloved tradition for families in South Florida.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the performance features professional dancers in principal roles, supported by a delightful community cast of local children and character artists. From the festive holiday party to the thrilling battle with the Mouse King to the beautiful scenes of snowflakes and dancing confections, this production captivates audiences of all ages.
This season also features a sensory-inclusive performance in Aventura, designed to welcome children and adults with sensory sensitivities, allowing everyone to enjoy this holiday classic.
POP THE TRUNK CHRISTMAS TOY GIVEAWAY 2025
WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025 | 2pm – 6pm
WHERE: McNair Center, 951 NW 27th Ave., Pompano Beach
PRICE: Free
DETAILS: Bring holiday cheer to local families with this drivethrough toy giveaway at McNair Center. Pop your trunk and receive a toy for your child. All ages welcome. Free.
Unwrap Mag c AT THE SHOPPES AT BEACON LIGHT
HOLIDAY
Discover a vibrant community of small businesses, each proud to offer exceptional services. Explore what our shoppes have to offer and meet the passionate business owners behind them, each adding a personal touch to make every visit special.
THE SHOPPES AT BEACON LIGHT
RESTAURANTS & LOUNGES
• Byte + Coffee
• Dua Gelato
• Fetta Republic
• Fish Shack
• Jugo Boss
• Lighthouse Thai Sushi
• Manta Peruvian Cuisine
• Midnight Cookies & Cream
• Offerdahl’s
• Sicilian Oven
• The Social Club & Lounge
PERSONAL SERVICES
• Beacon Coin Laundry
• Chip LaMarca State Representative
• Complete Fitness
• Education Station
• Healthy Weight Loss 4 U
• Medical Diagnostic Rehab
• Nob Hill Medical Center
• Pet Haven
• Venetian Luggage and Shoe Repair
RETAIL
• Altier Rare Coins
• Belle D’Amour
• Body & Soul Boutique
• Dazzles
• French Blooms
• Sally Beauty
• The UPS Store
SALONS & SPAS
• Beacon Light Barber & Salon
• Blue Room Salon
• Extravagant Pampering
• Madeline’s Beauty Shop
• Shear Excitement
• Top Nails
• Wellness Center INSURANCE, FINANCE & REAL ESTATE
• Allstate
• Bee Insurance
• Edward Jones
• ReMax
• State Farm
• Summit Builders
D ININ G AT THE SHOPPES AT BEACON LIGHT
Manta Peruvian Cuisine
Seafood dreams! Bold, colorful Peruvian dishes and fresh catches that delight the senses. Manta offers a modern Peruvian dining experience with fresh ceviche, vibrant seafood dishes, and bold coastal flavors — beautifully plated and full of color.
Fetta Republic
Mediterranean magic! Grilled meats, crisp salads, and signature feta in authentic Greek flavors. Fetta Republic serves authentic Greek comfort food with a modern twist. Dine with us and enjoy our fresh Mediterranean cuisine, or elevate your next dinner party with our catering services.
Sicilian Oven
Old-world flavors with a modern South Florida twist. Known for its crisp, charred-just-right pizzas, homemade sauces, and fresh ingredients, Sicilian Oven is a neighborhood favorite. From handcrafted pies to flavorful wings and hearty salads, Sicilian Oven is the perfect spot for anyone craving authentic flavor in a warm, inviting setting.
Midnight Cookies & Cream
Sweet tooth approved! Warm cookies and rich ice cream in playful, indulgent combinations. Midnight Cookies & Cream is your late-night sweet spot, serving warm, gooey cookies and rich, small-batch ice cream — every treat is playful and photo-worthy.
Byte + Coffee
Coffee lover’s haven! Handcrafted coffees, fresh pastries, and light bites in a welcoming and modern café. Byte + Coffee blends great coffee with fresh, creative bites — from lattes and cold brews to pastries and light breakfast and lunch plates in a cozy, inviting space.
Lighthouse Thai Sushi
Flavor explosion! Spicy Thai curries and fresh sushi rolls packed with color and taste. Lighthouse Thai Sushi delivers a mix of authentic Thai flavors and fresh sushi creations — from spicy curries and stir-fries to beautifully rolled sushi and sashimi.
Dua Gelato
Gelato bliss! Creamy, handcrafted Italian gelato in vibrant, seasonal flavors. Dua Gelato serves smooth, indulgent, handcrafted Italian gelato in delectable seasonal flavors — a sweet stop for dessert lovers of all ages.
Fish Shack
Fresh catch! Florida-style seafood from crispy tacos to perfectly grilled dishes. The Fish Shack is a casual coastal favorite featuring fresh seafood with a Florida twist — Bring your own catch? We’ll make it the star of the plate, cooked to perfection.
Jugo Boss
Fresh boost alert! Açaí bowls, cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and light bites to energize your day. Build-your-own bowls, healthy wraps, and energizing snacks make it a go-to spot for clean, flavorful, feelgood eats.
The Social Club and Lounge
Night out done right! The Social Club & Lounge offers a stylish spot for cocktails, and good times — perfect for a night out or relaxed evening with friends. Relax in our new cigar lounge, complete with inviting décor, comfy seating, and open-air ambiance.
GIFTS AT
THE SHOPPES AT BEACON LIGHT
LOCAL FLAVOR
IN THE NORTH BROWARD BEACHES
KEY
$ Inexpensive (under $25)
$$ Moderate
($26-$50)
$$$ Expensive ($51-$75)
$$$$ Pricey (over $75)
Have an update for us? Email additions, closings, or corrections to editor@pointpubs. com. We strive for accuracy, but recommend calling ahead to confirm details before setting out on your dining adventure.
Price categories are a general guide. Your check may vary depending on what you order.
Lighthouse Point
Bonefish Mac’s Sports Grill AMERICAN Lighthouse Point’s popular spot for all ages with an extensive menu featuring large portions including seafood, steaks, appetizers, burgers, their famous Key Lime pie and more. Enjoy happy hour all day every day at the indoor and patio bars. Specials include Monday prime rib night, Tuesday kids-eat-free, and an early lite menu 2002 East Sample Road, 954-781-6227 $$
Cap’s Place SEAFOOD Lighthouse Point’s own hidden seafood joint dating back to prohibition. Take the short boat ride over to the restaurant. 2765 NE 28th Court, 954-941-0418 $$$
Fetta Republic GREEK Traditional Greek offerings close to home. 2420 N. Federal Highway, 954-933-2394 $-$$
Fish Shack SEAFOOD This restaurant used to be a “best-kept secret.” But now that they have moved into the Shoppes at Beacon Light, the word is out. The Fish Shack keeps it simple, serving fresh fish prepared in several ways. There is more to the menu, but it is called The Fish Shack. 2460 N. Federal Highway, 954-586-4105 $$
Le Bistro CONTINENTAL Classically-trained chef Andy Trousdale serves up classics and inventive new dishes at this little neighborhood gem. Fresh and local produce is always used, and vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free menu items are available. A note to the wise; the porcini mushroom soup is worth every calorie. The restaurant also offers cooking classes and wine tasting dinners. More than worthy of a special occasion. Reservations are recommended. 4626 N. Federal Highway, 954-946-9240 $$$
Lighthouse Thai Sushi THAI • SUSHI This casual spot in the Shoppes of Beacon Light hits the spot when you seek a casual sushi or Thai dinner. The rolls are fresh, fun and tasty and the various Thai curries will leave you craving more. 2476 N Federal Highway, 954-532-6342 $$
Manta PERUVIAN Manta brings a vibrant Miami energy to Lighthouse Point with its sleek, modern atmosphere and Peruvian-inspired menu. We enjoyed a variety of fresh dishes, including tortillas filled with mahi, shrimp, avocado ice cream, and miso honey. Sushi lovers can explore a range of rolls. The spacious bar offers an impressive selection of cocktails, including the tangy Pisco Sour. It’s an ideal spot to relax with friends. 2410 N Federal Highway, 954-400-9859 $$-$$$
The Nauti Dawg Marina Café AMERICAN Nestled at the Lighthouse Point Marina, the Nauti Dawg is a local favorite. Start with the tuna wontons—crispy fried wonton wrappers topped with tuna tartare, seaweed salad, red pepper mayo, wasabi and a hit of sriracha. You can’t go wrong with the fresh fish sandwich—ask what the catch of the day is. They are a dog-friendly restaurant. 2830 NE 29th Ave. (at the Lighthouse Point Marina), 954-941-0246 $$
Papa’s Raw Bar SUSHI • SEAFOOD The fresh food shines, complemented by a Keys-inspired vibe. The menu features inventive tacos and sliders, along with a great selection of sushi and sashimi. To drink, there’s an extensive range of craft beers and a solid wine list. 4610 N. Federal Highway, 754-307-5034 $$-$$$
Rocca Trattoria ITALIAN This classic and cozy Italian trattoria exudes warmth and charm. The menu showcases authentic Italian cuisine, with a focus on traditional recipes. Each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail, from pasta dishes bursting with flavor to pizzas topped with fresh ingredients. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every visit is
memorable. Whether you’re savoring a leisurely meal with friends or simply stopping by for a quick pizza, this charming Italian restaurant offers a taste of la dolce vita in every bite. 2014 E Sample Road, 954-876-1733 $$
Senor Ceviche PERUVIAN Don’t let the name fool you, while there is plenty of ceviche, the restaurant serves up plenty of other Peruvian specialties. 3100 N Federal Highway, 954-933-1476 $$-$$$
Sicilian Oven PIZZA • ITALIAN Coal-fired pizza, a fabulous salad and wings — what more do you need? If you do need more, the menu is loaded with Italian classics. 2486 N Federal Highway, 954-785-4155 $$
Deerfield Beach
Baja Cafe MEXICAN Locals flock to this long-established favorite for a Mexican dinner or just drinks. They are known for their margaritas and entrées, including their bandito honey bean burritos and many taco options. You’ll also enjoy their endless fresh chips served with two types of salsa. 1310 S. Federal Highway, 954-596-1304 $$
Barracuda Seafood Bar & Grill SEAFOOD • BRAZILIAN This spot by the sea serves seafood with a touch of Brazilian flare, such as the bobo de camarao — shrimp sautéed in coconut milk, saffron, palm oil and yucca cream baked in a cast-iron skillet. 123 NE 20th Ave., 954-531-1290 $$
Casa Maya MEXICAN Start with a margarita, and it only gets better from there. This is not your typical Mexican joint — it’s better. Try gobernador tacos: a combination of shrimp with diced poblanos, onions, tomatoes and cilantro on a crispy corn tortilla topped with melted cheese. 301 SE 15th Terrace, 954-570-6101 $$
Deer Creek Grille AMERICAN Enjoy the club atmosphere with gorgeous views of the lush gardens and waterfall. The restaurant offers daily lunch and dinner specials, a Sunday breakfast buffet and covered patio dining so you can dine al fresco. 2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd., 954-4215553 $$
JB’s on the Beach SEAFOOD The restaurant boasts glorious beach views and a private glass room perfect for business or family affairs. 300 N. Ocean Way, 954-571-5220 $$$
Little Havana CUBAN Little Havana has fantastic lunch specials, and most of their dinner plates will feed two. Their masas de puerco frita and their Little Havana steak are two of the standout menu items, aside from their zesty chimichurri. 721 N. Federal Highway, 954-427-6000 $$
Luigi di Roma ITALIAN The atmosphere is always lively at Luigi di Roma — mainly if you arrive during happy hour! Naturally, you will find all your favorite Italian dishes on the menu, with everything from eggplant Parmesan to shrimp scampi and everything in between. You can also order take-out online. 718 S. Federal Highway, 954-531-6151 $$-$$$
Ocean’s 234 SEAFOOD Amazing views of Deerfield Beach and the pier with gluten-free options are available. 234 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-428-2539 $$$
Patio Bar & Grill CONTINENTAL Enjoy cocktails just feet from the sandy beaches of Deerfield. This relaxed spot at the Wyndham serves casual fare. There is often live music contributing to the energetic vibe. 2096 NE Second St., (at the Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort) 954-596-8618 $$
Patrizia’s of NYC ITALIAN At Patrizio, you will find all the classic Italian dishes we all love. The vibe is lively and the food is tasty. What more do you need? 1544 SE Third Court, 954-751-9797 $$
The Cove AMERICAN Enjoy cocktails frozen drinks, and marina views at the outdoor tiki bar — perfect for relaxing on warm Florida evenings! Indoor is also dining available.1754 SE Third Court, 954-421-9272 $$
Tijuana Taxi Co MEXICAN Perhaps it’s the all-day happy hour (Mon.Fri., 11am-7pm) with $6 signature margaritas, but as soon as you enter, the day’s weight lifts off your shoulders. The portions are generous — certainly enough for a doggie bag. And for the little ones there is kids night on Sunday after 5pm: kids eat for $1.99 from the $7.99 kids menu. 1015 S. Federal Highway, 954-708-2775 $$
Traditions FRENCH As the name implies, diners can expect traditional French cuisine. Start with the mussels and move on to the duck, or the lamb or the sole — it’s all well prepared. 626 S Federal Highway, 954480-6464 $$$
Pompano Beach
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza ITALIAN • PIZZA • WINGS Pizza and chicken wings — do you need any more? Try the cauliflower pizza — good and good for you. 1203 S. Federal Highway, 954-942-5550 $$
Aromas Del Peru PERUVIAN With several South Florida locations, the folks at Aromas Del Peru are bring Peruvian favorites to Pompano Beach.1 N Ocean Bvd., 954-354-2323 $$$
Beach House AMERICAN • CRAFT COCKTAILS This is the perfect place to take out-of-town guests. Snag one of the stadium seating style booths overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy the casual and relaxed ambiance with a rooftop deck on the second floor. 270 N Pompano Beach Blvd. 954-607-6530 $$
Bedda Mia ITALIAN • PIZZA An abundance of Italian fare served for lunch or dinner. If you can’t make it over to dine in, fret not; they offer free delivery. 427 S. Federal Highway, 954-943-5387 $$
Calypso Restaurant and Raw Bar CARIBBEAN Since they opened their doors in 1990, Calypso has been a local favorite. This gem of a restaurant is known for its fresh, wild caught fish, Bahamian conch dishes, Jamaican jerk and American favorites all served with an island flair. 460 S. Cypress Road, 954-942-1633 $$
Checkers Old Munchen GERMAN For a traditional German meal, try the wiener schnitzel — it’s divine — a lightly breaded veal cutlet sautéed in lemon butter and topped with homemade brown gravy. The spaetzle (German noodles) are a real homemade treat and not to be missed — throw a little of that brown gravy on them, and they could be a meal unto themselves. 2209 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-785-7565 $$
Chef Dee’s SUSHI • SEAFOOD A small neighborhood place with plenty of charm. Impressive sushi rolls and a varied menu with something for everyone. 3919 N. Federal Highway., 954-582-4444 $$
Dangerous Minds is more than just a brewery. This spot at Pompano Citi
Centre offers artisanal pizzas made from scratch. All the beers are brewed on-site, and owners Adam and Andre hale from Germany and England — two countries steeped in beer tradition. 1901 N Federal Highway, 954-657-8676 $-$$
Darrel & Oliver’s Cafe Maxx INTERNATIONAL This restaurant is an anchor of the South Florida fine dining scene. 2601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954782-0606 $$$$
Deep Oceanfront Dining & Bar AMERICAN Beach front dining at the Beachcomber Resort — go for the view. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 1200 S. Ocean Blvd. 954-941-7830 $$$
Deccan Spice INDIAN Enjoy the contemporary decor and take your pick from classic dishes like chicken tikka and biryani and curry dishes to some Indo-Chinese twists like crunchy stir-fried noodles. 1149 S. Federal Highway, 954-366-1847 $$
Di Farina Pasta Factory & Restaurant ITALIAN. Di Farina offers a variety of freshly made pasta to go. And if you can’t be bothered to make a sauce, they’ve got 19 from which to choose. The restaurant also has a full menu of Italian favorites. 1915 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-953-6771 $$
The Foundry AMERICAN Known for its artfully crafted dishes, The Foundry offers a fusion of contemporary flavors with a happening dining experience. 2781 E. Atlantic Blvd., 754-205-6977 $$
Galuppi’s AMERICAN What could be more entertaining than watching golfers swing and blimps ascend as you sip a drink at an outdoor bar? 1103 N. Federal Highway, 954-785-0226 $-$$
Gianni’s Italian Restaurant ITALIAN Gianni’s is practically a Pompano Beach landmark. Enjoy traditional Italian fare at this family-owned and operated establishment, serving everything from pasta to specialties
like Chicken Gianni’s and fresh seafood. Don’t skip the romaine salad with the blue cheese. Pair your dish with a bottle of wine or cocktail from their full bar. They also offer daily lunch specials Monday – Friday. 1601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-942-1733 $$$
Houston’s AMERICAN Enjoy this contemporary eatery for lunch or dinner. An outdoor bar and seating on the Intracoastal are available. 2821 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-9499 $$$
J Mark’s AMERICAN A relaxing, modern restaurant and bar with food and service to match. 1490 NE 23rd St., 954-782-7000 $$$
Kin Asian Street Food ASIAN • SUSHI Enjoy everything from inventive takes on ramen soups with pork belly and a jammy egg to rice bowls and dumplings. 143 SW Sixth St., 954-532-4567 $$
La Lupe MEXICAN The tacos were the authentic Mexican variety where the fillings truly shine because the only accoutrement are a sprinkling of cilantro and chopped white onion. 625 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-933-3491 $
La Perla Di Pompano ITALIAN This small and intimate Italian eatery offers a wide selection of Italian dishes, including four different risotto dishes alone. 420 N. Federal Highway, 754-222-9174 $$$-$$$$
La Veranda ITALIAN The atmosphere is elegant, yet comfortable and warm. Inside or out, one can enjoy a special evening in the Tuscany-inspired surroundings. There is an extensive selection of pasta, entrées and traditional dishes, with new favorites to be discovered that the wait staff will happily explain. 2121 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-943-7390 $$$
Lucky Fish Beach Bar + Grill AMERICAN It’s places like Lucky’s that make you happy you live in South Florida. This tiki bar by the sea (just south of the pier) offers simple eats, some top-notch people watching all with an ocean view. The menu includes classic snack foods like coconut
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31ST
shrimp and fish dip to tuna poke nachos. There are also salads, sandwiches and smash burgers. 222 N Pompano Beach Blvd. $
Miraggio Italian Grill ITALIAN A gorgeous new restaurant on the Intracoastal serving classic Italian fare, including wood-fired pizzas, pastas and more. 3100 B E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-876-1066 $$$
Nonna’s Bistro & Cafe ARGENTINEAN • BAKERY • CAFE Some of Nonna’s offerings include pasta frola cake, American keto salad, and a charcuterie board for two. Carryout and delivery are available. 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-532-9920 $$
Oceanic AMERICAN • SEAFOOD Along with stunning ocean views, the restaurant offers a comprehensive menu emphasizing seafood. If you are looking for a standout salad, the watermelon arugula salad with grilled shrimp is a perfect choice. The shrimp and grits were prepared traditionally and packed with flavor. The baby back ribs were melting off the bone, and there was enough for a doggy bag. The restaurant boasts dazzling architecture inspired by the great ocean liners of years past. 250 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., 954-366-3768 $$-$$$
Peking Duck CHINESE Start with the spareribs, with a subtly sweet, sticky glaze. The crab Rangoon were also a treat and delightfully puffy and tender. Don’t skip the pièce de résistance — Peking Duck. Peking Duck is a culinary marvel with savory meat and crispy skin, served with steamed pancakes and accompaniments like cucumbers, scallions, and hoisin sauce. The Mongolian beef vanished within moments — a true sign of scrumptious food. Meanwhile, the Kung Pao shrimp, with a fiery kick and crispy cubed veggies, provided a delightful contrast of textures. Along with an updated menu, the new owners have revamped the interior with a blend of modern and traditional Chinese elements. 1200 E Atlantic Blvd, 954-946-0436 $$
Revelry COCKTAILS • SMALL PLATES Revelry offers a unique blend of retro charm and vibrant nightlife. This hidden gem is the perfect speakeasy escape, featuring a carefully crafted ambiance and a diverse menu. Enjoy food that pairs beautifully with specialty cocktails, making dining a key part of your experience.. 227 S Federal Highway $$
Saito Japanese Steakhouse JAPANESE This Japanese steakhouse offers a wide variety of entrees, including teriyaki dishes, tempura and sushi. 2101 N Federal Highway, Suite 208, 954-945-8888 $$
Seaside Grill SEAFOOD • AMERICAN Enjoy a view of the Atlantic while enjoying fresh seafood and an icy cold cocktail. Located at Lighthouse Cove Resort on the ocean. 1406 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-783-3193 $$
Shishka Lebanese Grill MIDDLE EASTERN It’s not easy to make a good falafel, but the ones at Shishka are worth every calorie. There are plenty of other choices, too, from the classic hummus to baba-ghanouj to chicken and meat shawarma. 1901 N. Federal Highway, 954-943-2999 $$
South Bar & Kitchen CONTEMPORARY SOUTHERN South Bar & Kitchen offers an array of Southern comfort foods with a heavy Louisiana influence. 165 NE First Ave., 954-890-2000 $$-$$$
The Vault AMERICAN Step back in time at The Vault, a restaurant uniquely housed in the original First Bank of Pompano. With its authentic 1920s ambiance and reverence for history, The Vault brings the spirit of the past to life through both atmosphere and cuisine. Offering a modern take on classic American dishes, the menu features small and large plates—with solo and shareable options perfect for sampling and savoring. Known for its unbeatable $10 lunches, vintage-inspired cocktails, and standout happy hour, The Vault is quickly becoming a local favorite where every visit is a taste of history. 61 NE First St., 954-218-3627 $$
Yamu Thai JAPANESE • THAI A small spot by the sea with your favorite sushi and Thai and Japanese dishes. 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954532-7901 $$
Zuccarelli ITALIAN • PIZZA This place is more than just a pizza joint. From eggplant Parmesan to shrimp fra diavolo, you will leave quite satisfied. The portions are generous and come with a house salad. Bring your breath mints because their garlic rolls are on point. 1340 N. Federal Highway, 954941-1261 $ Y
