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Next Bar & Lounge held its soft opening last week and the community reviews are pretty positive thus far.

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- Kim Swan, Editor

Feature

Your ‘Next’ Cocktailing Adventure Is Here

By John Hayden

Is Wilton’s next hot spot here? Maybe. Next Bar & Lounge held its soft opening last week and the community reviews are pretty positive thus far. 

Located in Shoppes of Wilton (AKA Alibi Plaza) two doors down from Hunters, Next is giving the NYC vibes you might find in Hell’s Kitchen. An eyeball estimate says there is seating for about 60. The house was packed and on a wait list for opening night, which featured Alice as the lounge’s inaugural act. 

Nearly every seat was occupied by 7:30 p.m. Reservations were required for this night, but going forward they say it will likely be first come. The carefully curated interior feels like a refresh of classic nightclubs and dinner theaters. The booths remind you of Las Vegas in the days of the Ratpack. The wall sconces have an art deco feel from 1950s hotel lounges. And the gold disco balls hanging from the ceiling? 

Well that reminds you where you are: one of the gayest cities on Earth. 

There are two bars, split with the stage and screen between them, and they are staffed by derby clad bartenders who aren’t afraid to eschew shirt sleeves. They are serving up selections from a classic cocktail menu with names including Next Love, Just the Tip, and The Gold Standard. Most are about $16. They also offer small nibbles including bacon wrapped goat cheese, flat bread, shrimp cocktail, and a lava cake and all are under $20. 

For now, Next Bar & Lounge plans to only close on Tuesdays, but the doorman said they have some surprises in store for hump-day eve. Check their socials for details.

News

Michael Rajner Honored After Fight to Save HIV Funding — Battle Isn’t Over

The fight to save HIV treatment funding in Florida was hard, and it isn’t over yet. But for one night, the activists who fight for LGBTQ rights could take a night to relax and celebrate victories. On April 6, Equality Florida gathered at Gray Box Theater in Wilton Manors to honor Michael Rajner, a longtime activist and HIV survivor, for his role in saving ADAP, or AIDS Drugs Assistant Program.

AHF Escalates Criticism of Gilead Over Role in Florida ADAP Crisis

AIDS Healthcare Foundation is ramping up its public pressure campaign against Gilead Sciences, blaming the drugmaker’s high HIV medication prices for helping push Florida’s AIDS Drug Assistance Program into crisis earlier this year.

ICYMI

Oakland Park Starts Key Component of Massive Project

Oakland Park is midway through a massive refresh of its downtown, and the next key component is moving forward. With some pomp, circumstance, and continental breakfast, city commissioners broke ground on Greenleaf Park.

Weekly Events

TODAY: Happy Hour

$6 margaritas done right at La Mexicana Taco Bar.


WEDS: Sip & Paint

Get ready to unleash your inner artist while sipping on your favorite drink and painting beautiful pottery. 


THURS: Well Sung

A mini concert night by local vocalists.


FRI: Coffee Meet-up

Start your Friday with intention and inspiration at the NAWBO Coffee Meet-Up, hosted at La Mexicana Taco Bar in Wilton Manors.


SAT: Art Walk

Free Art Walk event for all to enjoy throughout Wilton Drive and Dixie Village (Dixie Hwy. Area).


SUN: Drag Brunch

Get ready for a fabulous brunch with fierce drag queens and endless drinks to keep the party going.


Job Opportunities

Zillow Flex Real Estate Agent -- Fort Lauderdale

Real Powerhouse Team is hiring a Zillow Flex Real Estate Agent to work with buyer and seller clients from first contact to closing, and more. From $100,000 a year.


Sales Manager I: Weatherby -- Fort Lauderdale

CHG Healthcare is seeking a Sales Manager I: Weatherby to drive sales results in a manner consistent with CHG’s core values, and more. $72,000 - $192,000 a year.

Mike's Deal

Get those Olive Garden cravings satisfied until May 31 with free delivery!

I’ve proudly called Wilton Manors home for the past 14 years and truly love being part of this vibrant community. As a Realtor® with Castelli Real Estate, powered by Better Homes & Gardens, and with over 25 years of experience in condo and HOA management, I bring a unique perspective when helping buyers and sellers navigate the South Florida market. Our office is conveniently located right on Wilton Drive, and whether you’re buying or selling in Wilton Manors or anywhere in South Florida, I’m always happy to help. 


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