2013 has been a hell of a year for the gay community. Political debates may continue to rage on over same-sex marriage but we all know that the world keeps turning. Every now and then we have to stop and take a moment to celebrate all of the things that life offers us, especially within our community. We’d like everyone to take this opportunity to recognize the “Best Of” winners for their outstanding commitment to their craft, and to thank the readers who help support them. 

 

BEST OPTOMETRIST

Chic Optique

If you’re in need of a new pair of eyes, Chic Optique is the one stop shop for your ocular needs. Owners Julie Slateer and Karen Carroll have one goal in mind: to make you look hot, see great and feel good. Their large inventory of frames are yours for the picking – all backed by a one year warranty. The staff is friendly, professional and above all, helpful. A trained optometrist and some stylish frames will have you seeing better in no time.

Chic Optique 2228 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-567-3937, chicoptique.net 

 

 

BEST LOCAL ACTIVIST

Michael Rajner 

Michael Rajner knows no fear. He has taken on state and federal policymakers, newspaper editors, business leaders, and corporate America in his successful effort to bring attention to discrimination against the LGBT community. In particular, Michael is an indefatigable advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness. He served as National Secretary of Campaign to End AIDS (C2EA) and volunteered as National Community Organizer for the National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA) and coordinated the AIDS IN AMERICA series of regional meetings and town halls around the nation for people living with HIV/AIDS. In 2011, Equality Florida awarded Michael the “Voice for Equality Award,” and POZ magazine named Michael among its POZ 100 – “some of the bravest, most dogged and downright effective AIDS fighters we know.” Always the fighter and protector of those less vocal, Michael Rajner is the Legislative Director for the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus.

Michael Rajner, michael@floridaglbtdemocrats.org 

 

 

BEST CLOTHING STORE

The Outlet

For quite some time, The Outlet has been providing Wilton Manors with affordable, trendy clothing. If you’re looking for the perfect local clothing spot, call off the search and stop by The Outlet by Anthony. The Outlet has a wide variety of shirts, jeans, underwear, swimwear, shoes, jewelry and more. Carrying only the hottest items in town, the store’s trendy inventory accommodates all of your clothing needs. Your closet will thank you.

The Outlet by Anthony  2013C Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  facebook.com/theoutletwiltonmanors 

 

 

BEST STRAIGHT ALLY 

James Franco

James Franco is quite the specimen of a man. We’re not just speaking of his looks, ironically enough. Franco has unabashedly starred in a multitude of gay films or roles, despite his heterosexuality. He played Sean Penn’s lover in “Milk,” gay poets Hart Crane in “The Broken Tower,” and Allen Ginsberg in “Howl,” as well as his most recent role in “Interior.Leather Bar.” Franco recently received the HBO Latin America Ally Award at the Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival for both his talents and contributions to LGBT film.

 

 

BEST LOCAL POLITICIAN 

Dean Trantalis

You remember Dean Trantalis, the newest Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner, don’t you? Well, perhaps you know him from his legal firm, Trantalis Law, whose marquee is front and center on Wilton Drive. Or maybe you remember Trantalis from his stint as Vice Mayor of Fort Lauderdale. Then again, it was Trantalis who co-wrote Broward County’s domestic partnership law, giving spousal-like benefits to all mated county residents. He also was co-chair of Americans for Equality, on the board of directors for the Dolphin Democratic Club and the Fort Lauderdale Citizen Review Board, plus named Small Business Person of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, Trantalis was co-chair of the South Florida steering committee for the Human Rights Campaign and is also a member of its National Board of Governors. It’s easy to remember the good guys who give of themselves to serve others.

Dean Trantalis, Trantalis Law 2255 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-566-2226, trantalislaw.com 

 

BEST BARBER SHOP

Mojo’s

With hair salons popping up on every corner, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find a decent barber shop. Where can a guy get a classic shave? The hot towel treatment? Thankfully, right here in Wilton Manors we have a solution. If you need to get yourself cleaned up, Mojo’s will give you an all-star treatment you won’t forget. Did we mention that it’s not just haircuts? Relax with a mani-pedi, get a facial, or even get some of those hard to reach places waxed. Lay back and enjoy.

Mojo’s 2348 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-566-1350,  or check them out on Facebook. 

 

BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZER

Kristofer Fegenbush

The Deputy Director at the Pride Center at Equality Park, Kristofer Fegenbush holds a Master of Social Work degree from Florida International University. Known for his quick wit, strawberry blond hair, and effective management style, Kristofer can likely be found at any number of fundraisers held each month both for the Pride Center and other AIDS supportive organizations. A native of Kentucky, Kristofer’s southern accent has a way of disarming even the most callous of individuals, whether clients (the Pride Center attracts some 17,000 people to its activities each year), politicians (Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Dean Trantalis is a big fan), or supporters (you know who you are). Need it organized; Fegenbush is the man.

Kristofer Fegenbush, Deputy Director at the Pride Center at Equality Park,Pride Center at Equality Park 2040 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-463-9005, pridecenterflorida.org 

 

BEST SPA 

Urban Retreat

Stop the world (if only for a few minutes) and fade into the magic that is Urban Retreat. Owned by practitioner Frank Velaz, this spa offers pain relief and muscle therapy through personal therapeutic massage aimed at relaxing the mind as well as the body. Talented hands manipulate the tense, tired and aching among us.  As hip as it is transcendental. Urban Retreat goes beyond traditional message therapy to heal injuries and repair the body through skillful touch. The relief that you’ll experience is instantaneous. The long-term result you’ll swear is magic.

Urban Retreat 4450 NE 20th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308,  954-249-9176, feelurban.com 

 

BEST NON-PROFIT FUNDRAISING EVENT

Smart Ride

Once a year, not long before Thanksgiving, when the days are getting shorter and the nights cooler, hundreds of bike riders assemble in Miami for a two-day fundraising event called the SMART Ride. While officially the acronym SMART stands for southern most aIDS/HIV ridetwenty-Thirteen, to those of us at Florida Agenda, it is just a SMART thing to do—raise donations by pedaling the 165 miles between Miami and Key West with 100% of pledges being returned to communities to be used for direct services to those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Now in its tenth year, the SMART Ride’s goal to is raise $1 million in donations, and its hope is the same as its hope from day one: that this will be the last year the ride is necessary for our future will be one free of AIDS.

SMART Ride 1314 E Las Olas Blvd, Ste 302, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301,  866-696-7701, thesmartride.org 

 

BEST SALON 

Scissorium

Customer service is the key to the success at Scissorium, the award-winning full-service hair salon and skin treatment center in Wilton Manors. Its unpretentious style belies the salon’s soul—sophisticated cuts and styling that mirror fashion runways and haute couture ateliers.  Sylists Lorenzo Littlefield and Philip Rodrigues are master technicians in the art of the maintainable color and cut. Using Redken products for the finest professional look, the stylists and technicians at Scissorium had spent years learning their craft and pass along that experience to every client. For a finishing touch, Scissorium’s skincare treatments complete the pampering process, from waxing unwanted hair to peels and facials. It’s just another part of your look of success.

Salon Scissorium 2405 North Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305  954-563-1981, scissorium.com 

 

BEST LAW FIRM 

Shawn Newman

Shawn Newman welcomes you into his office located in a transformed home in Wilton Manors and immediately makes you feel like you belong. True, you’ve come for help, but there’s none of that formal posturing to make you feel less significant. Whether you’ve crossed Newman’s office threshold for advice concerning Estate Planning, Living Wills, Elder Planning, Trusts, Probate, Cohabitation Agreements or any of his other specialties, Newman flashes his bear of a smile and suddenly all is well.  Your fortune, such as it is, is safe. So too is your future. Be content to know that Shawn Newman will remember to ask questions that you haven’t thought of before. It all part of the service in the law firm that has your protection in mind at all times.

Law Office of Shawn C Newman, P.A. 710 N.E. 26th St, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-563-9160, shawnnewman.com 

 

BEST PLACE OF WORSHIP

Church of the Holy Spirit Song

The congregation that packs two Sunday services at Church of the Holy Spirit Song are a joyous lot. Several years back, while going through a rough patch involving scurrilous Internet gossip and false accusation in civil litigation, I turned to a support group that met once a week, feeling very foolish at first. Then, a peculiar thing transpired. In the non-judgmental setting of this group, it was okay to be sad, and upset, and to feel victimized. The new senior pastor Rev. Tom Millner, and the two new associate pastors at the time were Rev. Suzanne Taczak and Rev. Leslie Tipton welcomed me to Sunday services, and I hopped into an inconspicuous seat in a pew at the extreme rear of the church. These service had such a liberating effect on me, that I became known as the writer who cries, for each and every service I would vent my frustration and watch as again and again it was absorbed without question. I still go to Church of the Holy Spirit Song, whenever I feel the need for a good cry and a good sing—music is the lifeblood here. Should you need a non-judgmental house of worship, it does not get any better than this.

Church of the Holy Spirit Song  2040B N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, 954-533-9205,cohss.org 

 

BEST REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

Dale Russell

“Globally connected; locally respected.” Or so goes the mantra of real estate broker Dale Russell of Atlantic Properties International.  Russell, who entered the real estate market eight years ago, is recognized for the extra personalized effort he makes to connect buyers with sellers in a highly competitive business arena. With special certification in luxury home marketing, short sales and foreclosures, and as a graduate of the Realtor Institute, Russell has been a multi-million dollar producer for the Dale Russell Network, and the face of the Five Points intersection bus stop billboard. Russell is a past president of the Pride Center at Equality Park, and with his life partner Jan Carpenter who died in 2012, participated in the joys and challenges of the LGBT community including serving on the boards of several not-forprofit and philanthropic groups.

Dale Russell Atlantic Properties International, 3438 N. Ocean Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308,  954-564-8182, thedalerussellnetwork.com 

 

BEST DOCTOR

Dr. David Lyter

In a day and age of impersonal medical tests and doctoring by Internet, it’s comforting to know that the family doctor is in and accepting new patients. It’s been nearly 30 years since David Lyter graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, around the time that the AIDS epidemic was hitting the ground running. It would become Dr. Lyter’s passion, and over the years as he extended his hand and connected personally with patients, he honed his bed-side manner, explaining symptoms, side effects and test results in English. Don’t understand the first time? Dr. Lyter will explain things another way—no rolling of eyes, no barely audible sighs. The operative word in his office is caring—from the front desk staff, to the administrators, to the nurses and technicians. They operate as a team to make you feel well, even before you get better.

Dr. David Lyter 1402 NE 26th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305,  954-565-7789, medicalgroup.holy-cross.com/david-lyter-md 

 

BEST DENTIST

Dr. Cunningham

Getting dental work is terrifying to many, so finding the right one is always a mission. Face it, you’ve been poked and prodded for far too long. You want a skilled, friendly dentist making the decisions for your pearly whites. Calm your nerves, collect yourself and prepare for a surprisingly pleasant visit to the dentist. Dr. Cunningham (as well as the rest of his knowledgeable, warm staff over at Oakland Park Dental) will have all of your problems taken care of before you can say “root canal.”

Oakland Park Dental 3047 North Federal Highway, FL 33306,  954-566-9812, oaklandparkdental.com 

 

BEST HIDDEN GEM

Le Patio

Vero Leroux and Jean Doherty are European transplants and life partners. Their love for each other and for food is made crystal clear at Le Patio. There is a warmth about the place – when you’re sitting down in the restaurant, you feel as if you’re sitting down with friends. The fusion of rich European comfort foods is intoxicating to say the least. Lasagna, shepherd’s pie, French onion soup, pasta bolognaise – you name it, they have it. The deserts are equally comforting (assuming you’re not concerned about your calorie intake), rotating out on a regular basis. Vero and Jean have created a wonderful restaurant that you’ll likely miss if you blink, but that’s half of its charm. The other half is of course, the food.

Le Patio 2401 Ne 11 Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-530-4641, lepatiowiltonmanors.com 

 

BEST SANDWICH SHOP 

The Pink Submarine

The Pink Submarine isn’t your typical sandwich shop. For example, the “The Captain” is comparable to a turkey club but with the volume turned all the way up — ham, turkey, tomato, mac and cheese, potato stix and honey mustard. The rest of the subs follow suit, with everything from Granny Smith apples to sriracha mayos, this shop is definitely thinking outside of the box. With a variety of breads, cheeses and meats, the combinations are endless. The topping pairings may seem a little out of the norm for some, but know that that’s how half of the world’s culinary wonder occurs. The Pink Submarine raises the bar for sub shops in every possible way.

The Pink Submarine 2041Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-566-2219, thepinksubmarine.com 

 

BEST BEER SELECTION 

Taps & Tapas at The Manor

Sometimes an ice cold beer is better than chocolate. While the liquid carbohydrates are extremely lovable, there’s nothing worse than low grade beer. A beer connoisseur won’t be walking into a dive bar to order a double stone IPA any time soon, unless it’s opposite day, in which case you’d receive a single stone in a glass of non-alcoholic St. Pauli. Taps and Tapas at the Manor has 25 beers on tap, and plenty more in bottle form. Pale Ales, dark ales, IPAs, lambics…your thirst will definitely be quenched at this bar. Beer lovers rejoice.

Taps and Tapas at The Manor 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-626-0082, themanorcomplex.com 

 

BEST RESTAURANT 

Rosie’s Bar & Grill

That Rosie is a wild girl. Her fun-themed Rosie’s Bar & Grill is an institution in Wilton Manors, festooned with colorful paper lanterns and covered open air seating, giving “festive” a new meaning.  While the mood sings party, the food is serious stuff. Owners John Zieba and Cliff Mulcahy see that you’re well fed with big burgers, fresh fish, apps, wraps and salads the size of Cleveland. While everyone seems to have their favorite dish at Rosie’s (ours is the Rose Nylund wrap with grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, shaved Asiago cheese, ranch dressing, keep cozy by a tomato-basil tortilla), there’s much more to the experience here than just the menu.  Upbeat music, a cross-generational crowd, sexy videos and endless laughter make this bar & grill, a must to experience.

Rosie’s Bar & Grill 2449 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-563-0123, rosiesbarandgrill.com 

 

BEST LUNCH 

Alibi

Alibi’s menu has long been praised for its burgers, but now a diverse range of items are available for your enjoyment. Appetizers, sliders, burgers, entrees, kabobs, sandwiches, tacos and even daily specials now span the menu. Their daily lunch specials cover every spectrum of food, including a bacon wrapped meatloaf, surf & turf, a hand battered half chicken and more, all for a surprisingly affordable $9.95. You can sit at the bar (inside or out) or in the shaded courtyard to enjoy your fantastic meal. Come as a group or drop by for a quick lunch break. Whoever you’re with, Alibi is the best lunch spot in town and is perfect for any occasion.

Alibi 2266 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-565-2527, alibiwiltonmanors.com 

 

BEST BURGER 

Alibi

It’s thick, it’s juicy, and it comes in ten versions. The award-winning burgers at Alibi Video Bar, Café, and Sports Bar are 10 ounces of Black Angus beef tucked inside a toasted Challah bun. Prices range from $10 for the Classic Alibi Burger (with lettuce, tomato and onion) to $16 for the Ahi Tuna Burger that substitutes sushi-grade Ahi tuna steak for the Angus Beef (with thinly sliced cucumber, wasabi sauce, seaweed salad, and a soy reduction). In 2011, Alibi’s Knockout Burger (with its roasted jalapeno cream cheese, aged cheddar cheese, roasted garlic mayo and bacon onion jam) was named the “Best Burger in Fort Lauderdale” at the Riverwalk Burger Battle. It was a one-two punch for Alibi Café, which had previous won the title in 2010 with its Champ Burger. The reign continues with Florida Agenda’s 2013 Best Burger award going to the Bleu Moon Burger, crispy savory bacon and all.

Alibi 2266 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-565-2526, alibiwiltonmanors.com 

 

BEST INEXPENSIVE RESTAURANT

Courtyard Café

Sometimes you just need a nice neighborhood restaurant with a hodgepodge of delicious yet inexpensive food. Throw in the fact that they’re open for a full 24 hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and Courtyard Cafe becomes the clear winner here. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, naughty appetizers and healthy options all compete for your attention on the menu – all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re waking up to start your day, or schlepping home to end your night’s (or morning’s) festivities, Courtyard Cafe provides quality food at an inexpensive price.

Courtyard Cafe 2211 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-563-2499, wiltonmanorscourtyardcafe.com 

 

BEST ITALIAN FOOD 

Bona

Enter Bona Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar and take a step back in time. No nouveau cuisine here; nothing fusion about it. This is traditional old-fashioned Italian goodness that is served up on each and every dish laid before you. Yes, there’s delicious Pizza, and yes, you can get your favorite Calzone, but the real excitement comes layered from the kitchen’s ovens in the form of Baked Ziti, Spinach Manicotti, Ravioli, and Lasagna. Spaghetti, Linguini, Penne, and Fettuccine have their own starring roles to play, whether served with marinara sauce, alfredo, primavera, or with broccoli and oil. Feeling fancy? Order your chicken Fiorentino, Marsala, Cacciatore, or Picatta.  Or just soak up some Zuppa di Pesce with some freshly baked rolls and smell like garlic for the next week and love it.

Bona Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar 2468 Wilton Drive Wilton Manors FL 33305,  954-565-7222, bonaitalianrestaurant.com 

 

 

BEST OUTDOOR SEATING 

Rosie’s

Rosie’s is truly the place to see and be seen. It’s their motto for a reason. The beautiful canopy overhead creating shade, the rainbow of Chinese lanterns, the privacy of the landscape, the attentive fantastic staff, the live DJ on Sundays — they all work together to create an environment that’s both exciting and comfortable. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy your food or drink outdoors. Go on a Sunday before 2 p.m. to get the full effect of an outdoors brunch at Rosie’s.

Rosie’s Bar and Grill 2249 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-567-1320, rosiesbarandgrill.com 

 

BEST VENUE TO SPOT A CELEBRITY

Bill’s Filling Station

It’s said that Lady Gaga has been on the stage here. So has RuPaul of ‘Drag Race” fame. Adam Lambert has shown up for karaoke night on Tuesday, but didn’t sing. Misty Eyez didn’t sing either, but she lip-syncs among the best of them on Sunday’s Trannie Palace weekly event. There’s the always-demure Athena Dion who must be seen to be believed; plus Noel Leon, Nicole Halliwell, Shontelle Sparkles, Mia Patricyk, Twat LaRouge, Chocolatta, Jennifer Wells, Tina Torch, Selena Jimenez, Crystal Chandelier, and Alandra Matthews. More stars than there are in heaven, you say? Well, it may have been the slogan of the old MGM Studios, but the statement works just as well for Bill’s. Fill up and enjoy the experience. VBill’s Filling Station, 2209 Wilton Dr,  Wilton Manors, FL 33305

954-567-5978, billsfillingstation.com

 

BEST FIRST DATE RESTAURANT 

J. Mark’s

The lighting is dimmed to a romantic glow. The music is tuned to a soft jazz theme. The servers greet, smile and flirt, making you feel like a million bucks. How better to ease into a first date than with the sexy ambiance of J. Mark’s Restaurant? And it doesn’t hurt that the menu won’t break the bank. Your date will be impressed that his order will be served exactly the way he asked, and you’ll gladly pick up the check without flinching, knowing that J. Mark’s has provided the perfect illusion of calm, collected and oh-so-smartly casual—just like clever you. Illusions are alike that.

J. Mark’s 1245 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304,  954-390-0770, jmarksrestaurant.com 

 

BEST TAPAS

The Manor Complex

When tapas first emerged on to the scene in the early 1980s, they were a Spanish version of the venerable Chinese Dim Sum plate. Servings the comprised of a couple of bits, all flavor but little girth. So, when The Manor Complex scrubbed is its fancy restaurant with al fresco dining on the Drive, for a joint they renamed Taps & Tapas we werem ore than just a little curious.  Here, among a huge selection of draft beers and bottled craft beers, were teeny plates of provocative flavor. The goal here is to release you from the decision making process to be free to enjoy the camaraderie of new friends and old. Taps & Tapas more than accomplishes that goal, as it assembles happy, chatty people under its eves, encourages you not to care about the mounting bill. Whatever the price, it is absolutely worth it.

Taps & Tapas at The Manor Complex 2345 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-533-9314, themanorcomplex.com 

 

BEST ART EVENT

Island City Art Walk

It’s sort of a given that South Florida is a cultural melting pot. Our diverse population births an expansive collection of art, and Wilton Manors is no exception. Island City Art Walk is the perfect event to showcase local talent, due in part to its sheer volume. It spans the majority of the drive, with various participating spaces — everything from bars and retail establishments to independent galleries. It brings the community together in a way that other events can’t and for that, it is truly a winner.

Island City Art Walk Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  islandcityartwalk.com 

 

BEST ASIAN/FAR EASTERN 

Dapur

Dapur’s high-end bar is trendy and tasteful (and tasty too), but the food is even better. The ultra cool spot serves up a fantastic fusion of sushi and Asian tapas. The papaya salad, kimchee and vegetables, ceviche and crispy duck are just some of the menu’s highlights – we’re guessing you’re already salivating. The sushi is just as phenomenal as the tapas, and if you clean your plate, you should strongly consider ordering one of the decadent deserts. The main lounge serves fantastic hand-crafted drinks and even hosts some hip, lounge inspired music. The restaurant/lounge hosts daily specials and even provides some entertainment on the weekends as well.

Dapur Asian Tapas and Lounge 1620 N. Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305,  954-306-2663, dapurkitchen.com 

 

BEST ART SPACE

Gallery XO

You’re first instinct upon seeing the art at Gallery XO, clearly dominated by the male form, is to reach out and cuddle those adorable pecs, or the bubble butt, or arms perfectly pumped to a size that defies the measuring tape. You’ll be temped to ask owner Maciel Contelmo for the models’ names; if only under the pretense that you want to know if there was artistic license at work here. As one who knows several of the actual subjects for my rounds for the Florida Agenda, I’m happy to report that no special license is needed to admire these boys/men. While most are in their 20s, what becomes readily apparent is that as these models, they become more attractive. It’s called hard work, and it pays off should you care to invest the time in yourself and your body. And then, just perhaps, you too can be on the walls of Gallery XO.

Gallery XO 2376 Wilton Dr,  Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-213-9797, galleryxo.com

 

 

BEST PLACE TO PICK UP A GUY

Village Pub

There’s a good reason that there’s always a gaggle of hot men crowding around the open-air entrance to the Village Pub on Wilton Drive.  Laughing, and touching, and making the kind of eye contact that has “hither-to” written all over their glances, these guys are on the make—mostly single, successful, and fascinated in you. That’s a rarity in this city of tens of thousands of bears, cubs, muscle gods, twinks, drag queens and sissies. Deep inside the Pub, the music is red-hot for dancing, but across the bar near the front doors, thrown wide to the elements, the view is tremendous and tempting. No one strolling the Drive can escape your notice here on the periphery. Be content in knowing that you won’t go home alone, unless, of course, you’ve got relatives visiting from the Olde Country.

Village Pub  2283 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  754-200-5244, villagepubwm.com 

 

BEST LOCAL DJ

DJ Richie Rich (Boom)

Boom is home to some of the best house music events in the area, and one of the real reasons is because of local DJ Richie Rich. The New York born DJ’s unique fusion of house music makes him a local favorite — his sets are always a guaranteed good time. Even those that usually find themselves holed up in a corner somehow end up on the dance floor. You can find him in his element on Sunday nights at Boom.

Boom Nightclub 2232 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-630-3556,  facebook.com/boomwiltonmanors 

 

BEST DRAG PERFORMER

Misty Eyez

Misty Eyez is one part hostess, one part drag and one part local celebrity. Her weekly party at Bill’s, Tranny Palace, brings in people from all walks of life each week to watch her showcase of wild and crazy queens. But while the show in its entirety may be a hoot, the real reason is due to Misty Eyez, aka “The Eyez of Florida”. Misty is hilarious and talented as hell, but her sweet demeanor off the stage is what really sets her apart from the pack. She is also a part of the non-profit organization known as The South Florida Sisters of the Rising Sun, whose goal is to serve the community by fundraising for charitable organizations as well as educating and raising awareness on HIV and AIDS issues. The multi-talented drag performer is doing everything she can to entertain and educate. See her Sundays at Bill’s for her Tranny Palace show.

Bill’s Filling Station 2209 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-567-5988, mistyeyez.net 

 

BEST NIGHTCLUB

The Manor

The Manor is truly an amazing nightclub. It hosts such a wide range of themed nights that it has to appeal to majority of clubbers. The space covers virtually all of its bases: a Latin night, a hip hop room, a house/dance room, drag shows and even some national acts. What’s also interesting is the décor itself. The interior is decked out with beautiful wallpaper, chaise sofas, and Swarovski red crystal chandeliers, yet never manages to feel intimidating or cold. It’s the perfect spot to dance your glutes off, host an event, or even to meet up with a first date for some happy hour tapas and cocktails. Its 18 and up night might seal the deal for some, but the elegance, charm and comfort make it a universally known and admired nightclub on the drive.

The Manor 2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-626-0082,  

themanorcomplex.com 

 

BEST COMEDY/VARIETY SHOW

Lips

Drag dining is a hard thing to nail. Everything has to be just right for it to succeed, especially if you’re interested in longevity. Fortunately, Lips has been successfully doing shows for a little over six years, offering a multitude of shows, themes, stars and performers. Twat Larouge’s hilarious performances have gained her a cult following due to her wild, unique, comical persona. Throughout the years, the cast has always remained glamorous while peppering in some zest, landing it in special place as the best Comedy and Variety Show of South Florida.

Lips 1421 E Oakland Park Blvd, Oakland Park, FL 33334,  954-567-0987, floridalips.com 

 

 

BEST MARTINI

Infinity Lounge

Infinity Lounge’s martinis are well-known around the drive. They’re refreshing, original and strong. They have everything from fruity and crisp to sweet and rich. Some customers opt to get the martinis made with fresh fruit while others give in to the aforementioned decadence (like the Lemon Caramel Poundcake or Strawberry Decadence Martinis). These martinis are skillfully made for a price that won’t break your bank. A multitude of weekly/daily specials will have you returning for more. If you haven’t visited Infinity Lounge yet, Sinatra Sundays – where they play, you guessed it, a Sinatra inspired playlist – is the perfect start to your new-found martini obsession.

Infinity Lounge 2184 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  764-223-3619, infinityloungefl.com 

 

BEST CRUISING BAR

The Ramrod

The Ramrod is dark, provocative and above all, a little gritty. There’s nothing wrong with grit. Every now and then you need to get a little dirty. A little…primal if you will. But contrary to what you may think, at the Ramrod, it’s not just bears. Leather, jockstrap, underwear and Levi’s enthusiasts come in all shapes and sizes. On Tuesday nights, they host their famed underwear night, where any attendees who check their pants at the door (yes, you read that right) are granted an hour of open bar. You’ll likely be caught off guard by how fast the room fills up. Once a month the bar hosts another notorious event called Pig Dance. The hottest guys from all over the tri-county area come to this dark, dungeon-like bar to dance and embrace their inner wild child. Your job is to approach it with an open mind and let loose a little. After all, you’re cruising right?

Ramrod 1508 NE 4 Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301,  954-763-8219, ramrodbar.com 

 

BEST BEAR PARTY

Growl Fridays at Bill’s Filling Station

If you’re hungry for bears, Growl Fridays will whet your appetite. The name is self explanatory: it’s a night where bears come together to mingle, dance and have a healthy dose of fun. The party brings together furry friends and newcomers as well to rub bodies together on the dance floor. VJ Barry Browder brings the beats, host Miss Kitty tames the pack and there’s even a sexy body contest at midnight with a cash prize. The room (and parking lot) gets pretty packed, so get there early and pick a prime spot to camp out. If you’re a cub in search of a new bear (or vice versa), you might just find your niche at Growl Fridays.

Bill’s Filling Station  2209 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-567-5988, billsfillingstation.com 

 

BEST NEW BAR

Rumors

Rumors, formerly Matty’s, is a fun new space on the drive. It feels both brighter and more open than Matty’s, which has been received well by patrons. Owner and manager Brendan Corman has been doing everything he can do to make it a memorable, fun experience for everyone. A 90’s night on Tuesdays, $1 well drinks and drafts on Wednesdays, a drag night on Thursdays..this bar will get you in for a good time one way or another. The video screens are always playing something fantastic, and when a VJ is there, it’s game on. Did we mention there’s a full kitchen? Appetizers, sandwiches, salads – all fresh and available day and night.

Rumors 2426 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-565-8851, rumorsbarwiltonmanors.com 

 

BEST 18-AND-OVER NIGHT

Manor Bubblegum  Fridays

If you’re between the ages of 18-20, you’re probably frustrated for two reasons: one, you can serve in your country’s military and fire a gun but you can’t legally drink just yet, and two, you have a hard time getting into virtually any night club. Thankfully, the Manor has created an 18 and up night that is fun for old, young and younger. The night, called Bubblegum Fridays, brings a devoted fan base every week. The youthful crowd is always ready to party like the best of them; they’re not exactly hard on the eyes either. It’s a great way for young gays to congregate and emerge themselves into gay culture in a fun, safe environment.

The Manor  2345 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-626-0082, themanorcomplex.com 

 

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Alibi

It’s hard to imagine a better or easier deal—Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., it’s Happy Hour at Alibi Video Bar, Café, and Sports Bar. Buy one drink, and get the second one free. There’s a good reason that everyone is happy here. The drinks are strong, and served in real glasses, not throwaway cups. It makes a difference as the frost forms around your drink to keep it frosty. With perfect Spring weather upon us, the outside patio bar takes full advantage of the season, while the inside three bars add refreshing AC and videos to the mix. Happy Hour doesn’t get more festive or fun.

Alibi 2266 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL 33305,  954-565-2526, alibiwiltonmanors.com