Heading into South Florida I had no idea on where to go, where’s popular, and most importantly how far away good food would be. Luckily for me, I met a lovely man by the name of Patricio who gave me some help on where to turn once my plane landed in Ft. Lauderdale. One place he mentioned and swore by was Rosie’s.
Formerly known as Hamburger Mary’s, Rosie’s has been a mini getaway from the world in Wilton Manors since 2002. From the moment you hand over your keys for complementary valet your wrapped in a colorful, casual, upbeat paradise. All that’s missing is your personal cabana boy (or girl) but you have a server, unless you’re at the bar. DJ James keeps the jams pouring in with anything from Top 40 to throwbacks from the 80’s on Friday thru Sunday. This gay-cultured, family-friendly gem deserves more recognition than I can give. Opened 7 days a week Rosie’s keeps the city vibrant.
Known for having one of the best Sunday Brunches in the area from 10am to 2pm (my staple), I went with my coolpix snapshot camera and had Saturday Brunch. Funny enough I reconnected with Patricio who walked in about 30 seconds before I did. Small world.
I love their cheeky menu headings and items like, “Big ‘Dicts” for all items eggs benedict and a “She BOP Wrap”. With a very affordable menu, inviting atmosphere, and friendly/happy staff members I can see how and why customers keep coming back. Main items are priced between $6.50 and $12.95. Sides are between $1.50 and $4.95.
And then there are the drinks.
For Brunch a Ultimat Bloody Mary’s is $3, Mimosa’s are $5, and Cruzan VooDoo Buckets, made up of 3 rums, are $10. Deal! Want Beer? They have BUCKETS of 5 beers between $8 and $12!
I decided I’d get something different (I wanted the Goldie Lox since I love Egg Bene with Salmon) and went with the Double Decker Banana Cream Pie. This breakfast slash dessert contained as their menu states, “Fresh, homemade and ohhh soooo silky banana cream and sliced bananas stuffed between 2 big Belgian waffles, and topped with whipped cream”. That was a mouthful! I had to try one of their mimosa’s and also their Screw-mosa (a mimosa with vodka).
First thing I loved on the waffles was the whipped cream. Fluffy and light in body. The whole thing was sweet and satisfying. The custard was thick and sweet, like pudding. The bananas were cut a nice size, not too thick so it didn’t clash. The waffles were a nice golden color with a home-style taste. I couldn’t even finish it. So sad since it was sooooo good. My mimosa was standard but my Screw-mosa hit the spot!
Rosie’s was an experience I will never forget. I met lovely people, both guest and employee’s that made my vacation to Florida amazing, even if only for a few hours. Rosie’s is great for food, drinks, or the combination. I can’t wait to return hopefully in a few months and reconnect again. Stay fabulous!
Rosie’s Bar and Grill
2449 Wilton Drive
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
954-563-0123
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