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Aja's modern Asian decor fits with the Atlanta-based restaurant group, "Here to Serve's" trendy vibe. The open space and chic bar set up welcome you as you enter and the warmth continues during the dining experience. The (youthful) staff is very attentive and friendly while the tea lit dining room set the mood. Of course I fell in love with the menu and it's gigantic selection of small plates. My empty stomach and giant eyes wanted them all but with 3 of us dining, we narrowed it down to to a few.

Rocco is gettin' around and rightfully so!  Rocco Mangel has been working the South Florida restaurant scene for quite some time and has established himself through his own chain of restaurants- Rocco's Tacos, now with 3 locations.  The original is in West Palm, the second is in Central Boca, and the newest is in downtown Fort Lauderdale.  I have experienced all three and can tell you that the upbeat, trendy atmosphere, the fresh guac (made table side), and the Prickly Pear Margarita are what keep me coming back.

Midtown (aka the Design District) is an up and coming section of Miami and home to a happening spot, Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill. There has been a good amount of hype so I was anxious to check out the scene- making it the desired location for our girl’s night out. To no surprise, I got lost (even with my new car’s navigation system) so I arrived late missing the “have a drink at the bar” time. As I scooted in to meet my lady friends, I caught a glimpse of the lively outdoor bar and was a bit disappointed that I missed out on the predinner cocktail. Fortunately, I was greeted at the table with an assortment of beverages that the gals insisted “you have to try.” Within an instant, I was infatuated with the birthday girl, Amy’s, strawberry balsamic mojito and my very own was on its way.

I have been to the Dubliner Irish Pub on a number of different occasions, but it's usually been to enjoy some adult beverages and let loose while listening to live, local bands jam out. Well, after my last experience, where the night began with dinner, I will definitely be making it a point to eat at this Irish Pub more often.

What's the coolest hot spot in all of Fort Lauderdale?  Tundra, of course.  The arctic themed scenery defines this new Las Olas locale as the cool place to be (literally), but you can leave your parka at home- while there are ice carvings displayed throughout the dining areas, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.  Its cozy interior (aka limited seating) portrays an earthy, modernized lodge housing a series of oversized, icicle-shaped chandeliers that are the focal point of the room.  A full bar (complete with a specialty drink menu) invites those who want to enjoy a cocktail, and perhaps a bite to make themselves comfortable.  The covered patio out front accommodates many more guests and is tastefully adorned with black chandeliers, chic lighting, and ice sculptures.

The weekend is almost here and we’ve got plans to meet friends out for dinner on Friday. The plan is “somewhere in Fort Lauderdale”- well that really narrows it down. I tap into my mental restaurant rolodex and stop on YOLO, a perfect spot for this group who likes to be a part of the scene, enjoy good food, and get a little tipsy while doing so. YOLO stands for "You Only Live Once" and the ambiance and menu convince you to go along with this motto. The vibrant bar scene, the trendy décor, the classy crowd, and the scrumptious fare create the perfect combination for a successful night out.