I don’t know about you, but I am getting tired of waiting for a recession. Yes, there are a few worrisome signs nationally, such as vacant office space and we do have a bit of an issue in some South Florida submarkets. I really wouldn’t want to be owning a lot of Class B buildings in so-so locations.
However, looking at this issue, I’m really struck by just how good things look.
I’ll start with this issue’s cover story on Mike Linder. It seems like just a few years ago when I heard about Jet Runway Cafe and started visiting for breakfast. Then, I joined Lifestyle Media Group and it turned out it was the best place for a business lunch near the office.
It’s gratifying to write about the success of Mike, who finds ways to keep adding to his restaurants. I also had no idea that he and his partner are major players in event production, too. He’s a great example of a business leader who hustles and finds opportunity. Sometimes, it finds him because of his reputation.
I haven’t tried all of Mike’s restaurants, but recently enjoyed some outstanding fried chicken at South PMP Kitchen and Bar in Pompano Beach. I also ate twice at YOT, which is truly a hidden gem on the New River in Fort Lauderdale. The views are stunning and the patio was packed on a recent Saturday night. Canyon and Val+Tino are high on my list for dining out next. Digital Editor Sean D’Olivera gives a strong recommendation in his review of Val+Tino in this issue.
Mass transit has long been shortchanged in South Florida, so it was nice to meet David Dech, executive director of the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, parent of Tri-Rail. If you don’t live near a Brightline station, you now have options to take a train to downtown Miami. Tri-Rail stations should be some of the best epicenters in future development here.
Jesse Scott has a great piece on Jessica Goldman Srebnick, who continues to be a major player in the hospitality and art scenes.
I attended events held by Visit Fort Lauderdale and the Executives Association of Fort Lauderdale. Both were very upbeat. It was also great to see Alexander Star, who has performed at several SFBW events, singing a new anthem about Fort Lauderdale.
I had a lot of fun getting out and meeting the leaders of The Venue Fort Lauderdale and we are also picking up a piece I wrote for our sister publication, Lifestyle, on Jack Seiler, who is not only a great example of a public servant, but a savvy lawyer and businessman. There’s even an appearance by my rock star periodontist and his son. Our Agenda and Briefing sections are also full of new developments. I think we are partying like it’s 1999 instead of waiting for the recession of 2024.
