Nestled in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern stands as a testament to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. This charming tavern, shrouded in lush greenery and adorned with vibrant bougainvillea flowers, has been a beloved local gem for over five decades.
As you step through the doors of Bougainvillea's, you are transported to a simpler time, where the air is filled with the sounds of laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the sweet melodies of live music. The tavern's cozy interior, adorned with vintage decor and memorabilia, creates an ambiance that is both nostalgic and inviting.
From its humble beginnings as a small roadside tavern to its current status as a Fort Lauderdale institution, Bougainvillea's has witnessed the transformation of the city while remaining a steadfast symbol of its heritage. Let's delve deeper into the tavern's fascinating history, the delicious cuisine it offers, and the unforgettable experiences that await you within its walls.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern
Historic Fort Lauderdale landmark.
- Established in 1964.
- Charming, nostalgic ambiance.
- Live music and entertainment.
- Delicious Southern-inspired cuisine.
- Extensive craft beer selection.
- Tropical garden oasis.
- Local landmark and community hub.
With its rich history, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere, Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is a true Fort Lauderdale gem, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.
Established in 1964.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern first opened its doors in 1964, during a time when Fort Lauderdale was undergoing a period of rapid growth and transformation. The city was attracting new residents and businesses, and there was a growing demand for places where people could gather, socialize, and enjoy a good meal.
Bougainvillea's quickly became a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, thanks to its charming atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly service. The tavern's founder, a man named George Meyer, had a vision for creating a place where people could feel at home, and he succeeded in making Bougainvillea's a true community hub.
Over the years, Bougainvillea's has undergone several renovations and expansions, but it has always remained true to its original spirit. The tavern's menu has evolved over time to reflect the changing tastes of its clientele, but it still features many classic Southern dishes, such as fried chicken, ribs, and collard greens.
Today, Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is a beloved Fort Lauderdale institution. It is a place where people can go to enjoy a delicious meal, listen to live music, and soak up the city's rich history and culture. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Bougainvillea's is a must-visit destination.
So next time you're in Fort Lauderdale, be sure to stop by Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. You'll be glad you did!
Charming, nostalgic ambiance.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is known for its charming and nostalgic ambiance, which transports guests to a simpler time. The tavern's interior is adorned with vintage decor and memorabilia, including old photographs, antique signs, and rustic furniture. The walls are painted in warm, inviting colors, and the air is filled with the sound of laughter and conversation.
One of the most striking features of Bougainvillea's is its beautiful garden oasis. The tavern's outdoor seating area is surrounded by lush tropical plants and flowers, including bougainvillea, hibiscus, and palm trees. The garden is a popular spot for guests to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink, and it's also a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Bougainvillea's also has a rich history, which adds to its charm and nostalgia. The tavern has been a Fort Lauderdale institution for over five decades, and it has witnessed many changes in the city over the years. Bougainvillea's is a place where people can go to escape the present and step back in time to a simpler, more relaxed era.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, you're sure to appreciate the charming and nostalgic ambiance of Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy a truly unique dining experience.
So next time you're in Fort Lauderdale, be sure to stop by Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. You'll be glad you did!
Live music and entertainment.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is known for its lively atmosphere and its commitment to live music and entertainment. The tavern hosts a variety of musical acts, from local singer-songwriters to national touring bands.
- Local musicians: Bougainvillea's is a great place to discover new local talent. The tavern hosts open mic nights and regular performances by local musicians, giving them a chance to showcase their skills and share their music with the community.
- National touring bands: Bougainvillea's also attracts national touring bands, who often stop by the tavern to perform for their Fort Lauderdale fans. The tavern's intimate setting and enthusiastic crowd make it a popular destination for musicians of all genres.
- Special events: Bougainvillea's also hosts special events throughout the year, such as themed parties, holiday celebrations, and charity events. These events often feature live music, as well as food and drink specials.
- Something for everyone: No matter what your musical taste, you're sure to find something to enjoy at Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. The tavern's diverse lineup of musical acts ensures that there's something for everyone, from classic rock to country to blues to jazz.
So next time you're looking for a great place to enjoy live music and entertainment, be sure to check out Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. You're sure to have a good time!
Delicious Southern-inspired cuisine.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is known for its delicious Southern-inspired cuisine, which has been a staple of the tavern's menu since it first opened its doors in 1964. The tavern's chefs use fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and authentic.
Some of Bougainvillea's most popular dishes include:
- Fried chicken: Bougainvillea's fried chicken is a classic Southern dish that is always a hit with customers. The chicken is brined in a secret blend of spices and then fried to perfection. It's served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and coleslaw.
- Ribs: Bougainvillea's ribs are another popular choice. The ribs are slow-cooked until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. They're served with a choice of barbecue sauce or a dry rub.
- Collard greens: Bougainvillea's collard greens are a delicious and healthy side dish. The greens are simmered in a flavorful broth until they are tender. They're served with a hint of vinegar and a dash of hot sauce.
- Cornbread: Bougainvillea's cornbread is a must-try. The cornbread is made with fresh cornmeal and is cooked in a cast iron skillet. It's served with honey butter and is the perfect accompaniment to any Southern meal.
In addition to these classic Southern dishes, Bougainvillea's also offers a variety of other menu items, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood. No matter what you're in the mood for, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings at Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern.
So next time you're in Fort Lauderdale, be sure to stop by Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern and try their delicious Southern-inspired cuisine. You won't be disappointed!
Extensive craft beer selection.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is known for its extensive craft beer selection, which features a wide variety of local, regional, and national brews. The tavern's beer list is constantly rotating, so there's always something new to try.
- Local breweries: Bougainvillea's supports local breweries by featuring a number of beers from Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area. These beers are often hard to find outside of South Florida, so Bougainvillea's is a great place to try something new and unique.
- Regional breweries: Bougainvillea's also features a number of beers from regional breweries throughout the Southeast. These breweries are often small and independent, and they produce some of the most innovative and flavorful beers in the country.
- National breweries: Bougainvillea's also carries a selection of beers from national breweries. These beers are often more widely available, but they're still a great choice for beer lovers who want to try something different.
- Something for everyone: No matter what your taste in beer, you're sure to find something to enjoy at Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. The tavern's extensive craft beer selection has something for everyone, from light and refreshing lagers to hoppy IPAs to rich and flavorful stouts.
So next time you're in the mood for a great craft beer, be sure to check out Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern. You're sure to find something to your liking!
Tropical garden oasis.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is known for its beautiful tropical garden oasis, which provides a relaxing and inviting escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The garden is located behind the tavern and features a variety of lush tropical plants and flowers, including bougainvillea, hibiscus, and palm trees.
Guests can relax in the garden and enjoy a meal or a drink, or simply take a break from their day to soak up the sun and enjoy the scenery. The garden is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events.
Here are some of the features of Bougainvillea's tropical garden oasis:
- Waterfall: The garden features a beautiful waterfall that creates a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The waterfall is also a popular spot for guests to take photos.
- Koi pond: The garden also has a koi pond, which is home to a variety of colorful koi fish. Guests can sit by the pond and watch the fish swim, or they can even feed the fish.
- Tropical plants and flowers: The garden is filled with a variety of tropical plants and flowers, including bougainvillea, hibiscus, and palm trees. The plants and flowers are carefully maintained and add a splash of color and beauty to the garden.
- Outdoor seating: The garden features a number of outdoor seating areas, where guests can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink. The seating areas are surrounded by lush tropical plants and flowers, which creates a private and intimate atmosphere.
So next time you're in Fort Lauderdale, be sure to visit Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern and experience its beautiful tropical garden oasis. You're sure to be impressed!
Local landmark and community hub.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is a local landmark and community hub in Fort Lauderdale. The Tavern has been a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike for over five decades, and it continues to be a popular spot for people to socialize, relax, and enjoy a good meal.
- Community events: Bougainvillea's is often the site of community events, such as block parties, charity fundraisers, and live music festivals. The Tavern is also a popular spot for local clubs and organizations to hold their meetings and events.
- Live music: Bougainvillea's is known for its live music, which has been a staple of the Tavern since it first opened. The Tavern hosts a variety of musical acts, from local singer-songwriters to national touring bands. The Tavern's live music is a great way to experience the local music scene and to support local musicians.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: Bougainvillea's is a family-friendly establishment, and children are welcome. The Tavern has a large garden area where children can run around and play, and the menu features a variety of kid-friendly dishes.
- Support for local businesses: Bougainvillea's is a strong supporter of local businesses. The Tavern sources its ingredients from local farmers and purveyors whenever possible, and it also features a number of local beers on its menu. By supporting local businesses, Bougainvillea's helps to keep the local economy strong.
Bougainvillea's Old Florida Tavern is more than just a restaurant. It's a local landmark and community hub that has been a part of Fort Lauderdale for over five decades. The Tavern is a place where people can come together to socialize, relax, and enjoy a good meal. It's also a place where people can support local businesses and the local economy.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Florida:
Question 1: What is the best time to visit Florida?
Answer 1: The best time to visit Florida is during the shoulder seasons, which are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.
Question 2: What are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida?
Answer 2: Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida include Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Miami Beach, South Beach, and the Florida Keys.
Question 3: What are some of the best beaches in Florida?
Answer 3: Some of the best beaches in Florida include Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Panama City Beach.
Question 4: What are some of the best things to do in Florida?
Answer 4: Some of the best things to do in Florida include visiting the theme parks, going to the beach, fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife watching.
Question 5: What are some of the best places to eat in Florida?
Answer 5: Florida has a diverse culinary scene, with everything from fresh seafood to Cuban cuisine to Southern comfort food. Some of the best places to eat in Florida include Joe's Stone Crab in Miami Beach, the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, and the Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne.
Question 6: What are some of the best places to stay in Florida?
Answer 6: Florida has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels. Some of the best places to stay in Florida include the Ritz-AppUser Carlton, South Beach in Miami Beach, the Waldorf=Astoria Orlando, and the JW Marriott Marco Island.
Question 7: What are some tips for planning a trip to Florida?
Answer 7: Here are a few tips for planning a trip to Florida:
I hope this FAQ has been helpful in planning your trip to Florida. Have a wonderful time!
Now that you know more about Florida, here are some tips for making the most of your trip:
Tips
Here are some tips for making the most of your trip to Florida:
Tip 1: Purchase a Floridaebewide attraction pass. If you plan on visiting multiple theme parks and attractions, a Floridaebewide attraction pass can save you a lot of money. There are several different passes available, so be sure to choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Tip 2: Rent a car. Florida is a large state, and the best way to get around is by car. This will give you the freedom to explore the state at your own pace and to visit some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Tip 3: Be prepared for the weather. Florida has a subtropical climate, which means that it can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Be sure to pack light, airy clothing and plenty of sunscreen. You may also want to consider bringing a rain jacket, as Florida is prone to sudden thunderstorms.
Tip 4: Take advantage of the many free activities. There are many free things to do in Florida, such as visiting the beaches, hiking in the state parks, and exploring the many museums and cultural attractions. Be sure to check out the Florida State Parks website and the Visit Florida website for more information on free and low-cost activities.
Tip 5: Be respectful of the wildlife. Florida is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and sharks. Be sure to keep your distance from these animals and to follow all posted safety signs.
I hope these tips help you have a wonderful and safe trip to Florida!
Florida is a beautiful and diverse state with something to offer everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an exciting theme park adventure, or a chance to explore the great outdoors, you're sure to find it in Florida.
Conclusion
Florida is a beautiful and diverse state with something to offer everyone. From its world-famous theme parks to its stunning beaches to its vibrant cities, Florida is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.
In this article, we've explored some of the many things that make Florida a special place to visit. We've talked about the state's rich history and culture, its delicious cuisine, its beautiful beaches, and its exciting attractions. We've also provided some tips for planning your trip and making the most of your time in Florida.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, I hope this article has inspired you to explore all that Florida has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Here are some of the main points we've covered in this article:
- Florida has a rich history and culture, dating back to the days of the Spanish conquistadors.
- Florida is home to some of the world's most popular theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.
- Florida has stunning beaches, from the white-sand beaches of the Panhandle to the turquoise waters of the Keys.
- Florida is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, hiking, and swimming.
- Florida has a diverse culinary scene, with everything from fresh seafood to Cuban cuisine to Southern comfort food.
I hope you have a wonderful time exploring all that Florida has to offer!