THERE’S AN EXPRESSION IN LIFE that keeps coming around and around to me: The things you dread the most often work out the best, and sometimes the things you think will work out the best, never do.
I had that feeling when Erin and I packed to go over to Hollywood, Florida, for a quick weekend trip. Someone had given us tickets to a concert at a casino—so we threw caution to the wind, threw our bag in the backseat and headed over to a city in Florida I had never been during the 30 years I’ve lived here.
We stayed along the Hollywood “broadwalk.” You read that correctly. It’s not called a “boardwalk.” Call it what you will, but it was a very fun way to stroll along the ocean, peoplewatch, visits shops and get some fresh air.
Our visit coincided with the opening of a new resort called “Margaritaville Beach Resort.” Jimmy Buffett has branched out a long way from the microphone—and to his credit, he’s got the Midas touch. Everything he touches turns to gold, or so it seems.
The resort has eight different restaurants—from “JWB Prime Steak and Seafood”to a coffee shop. We had lunch in the resort at a place called “Margaritaville.” It overlooks the pool and beach, and I’m happy to report it was much better than other chain restaurants that appeal to tourists.
This is how they describe the place: “Margaritaville invites guests to raise a glass and take a bite out of paradise. With coastal-inspired, made-to-order dishes and hand-crafted cocktails, there is no better spot to sit, sip and savor.” Well said. While in Rome—we had margaritas, which were excellent. For lunch, I had the signature fish sandwich (Golden-fried, topped with sliced tomato, cilantro lime coleslaw and a side of jalapeño tartar sauce) while Erin had fish tacos (Crisply fried in our LandShark batter, topped with avocado, cilantro lime, coleslaw with black beans, rice and pico de gallo). We were both very happy with our choices.
We didn’t stay in this new resort since we were already booked elsewhere, so I can’t tell you anything about the accommodations. But we hope to return someday soon to find out.
We set out for someplace to find lunch, and wound up having an excellent experience. It set the tone for what turned out to be a nice weekend on the “broadwalk” in Hollywood. – Ray Collins
