The place: Boo Rileys, 2528 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale. Call 954-567-1212.
The hours: 4 to 8 p.m. every day.
The deal: $1 off domestic beers (bottle and draft), house wines, and wells.
The digs: This flat-roofed building with the large A-frame on top (the better to hold the Hurricanes and Steelers mural) seems to
change names on a regular basis (River Rock Café, Durty Nellie's,
Shuck's, Darryl's, et al.). For now, it's settled on Boo Rileys. The
décor has changed slightly, but the setting hasn't. You still have the
option of sitting at the large central bar, a table in the side room,
out front on the covered patio facing North Federal Highway, or out back on the dock
facing Middle River. Flat screens are located everywhere but the dock,
which has its own flat screen of sorts.
The verdict: For a space that's always changing names and
owners, it somehow manages, with each iteration, to provide a relaxed and
intimate vibe. The place must have a good kitchen, because the food is
always well-prepared no matter who's running it, whether they're going
for straight bar food or something more. It's a true neighborhood bar in
that sense. You wouldn't drive out of your way to go here, but it's
good if you live in the area and want someplace laid-back to meet up
with friends, grab a drink, and possibly eat some food. It just might
have a different name the next time you all meet up.
