INSIDE
WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com Vol. 2, No. 39 • FREE
in Cuisine Sinz Burritos: Sin with a healthy dose of love. A20-21X Enjoy New Year’s Eve in Key West with these events
Bartender of the week Lyndsey Varvatos: Island Girl. A6 X PHOTOS BY CAROL TEDESCO AND ROB O’NEAL / FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/HO
Above: Confetti flies BY LAURA RICHARDSON and the crowd in front Florida Weekly Correspondent of Bourbon St. Bar on Duval St. cheers as EW YEAR’S EVE — ONE LAST NIGHT Sushi descends in her OF reckless depravity before we red high heel at mid- all resolve to be better, to achieve Music scene night. At right: “Sushi,” more, to (finally) join the gym Mark Rose and Roberta portrayed by female N and work on that six pack. It’s impersonator Gary Mari- Jacyshyn: Married to the music. also a night when we all gather and gaze on, toasts the revelers. A16-17 X SEE NYE, A10 X
Eddie Money headlines New Year’s Eve Concert at Key West Amphitheater
BY LAURA RICHARDSON “Take Me Home Tonight,” “Baby Hold On” Florida Weekly Correspondent and “Maybe I’m a Fool.” Eddie (because two seconds into our conversation I’ve “What do you call eight rock stars’ been reprimanded for daring to call him wives in a basement?” “Mr. Money”) will be celebrating New ……………… Year’s Eve from the VIP balcony above Theater “A whine cellar!” Sushi’s annual shoe drop, but only after he “Dancing Lessons”: An And so begins my interview with Eddie headlines a concert at the newly opened COURTESY PHOTO Money, the legendary singer of recogniz- unexpected enchantment opens able hits like “Two Tickets to Paradise,” SEE MONEY, A14 X Red Barn’s 38th season. A5 X A2 WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST OFF OFF DUVAL Editor Owen Killian [email protected] An insider’s look at Key West Publisher The most traveled and visible street to find with little signage and inside feels and beans will keep you going long into a Niall Geoghegan in Key West is only the beginning, the like a world away. The nautical-themed Key West night. [email protected] surface, of what the town has to offer. Ask bar is warm and homey. Small and large ■ Better than Sex 926 Simonton St. the locals about their favorite spots, stroll plates include items such as roasted bone 305-296-8102; www.betterthansexkeywest. Reporters through quiet neighborhoods or down marrow and yellowtail snapper. Knowl- com. A great place for couples. Swing by Bucky Montgomery alleyways off Duval Street, and you’ll edgeable bartenders mix up craft cocktails this dessert only, adults only restaurant Laura Richardson begin to dive deeper into the quieter, more such as Curse Like a Saler with gin, dolin late in the evening. Indulge your senses Jennifer White diverse and less-readily apparent offer- blanc, agave, basil, mint and grapefruit. with chocolate-dipped wine glasses and Presentation Editor ings. Here are eight spots that you might Brilliant! cheeky homemade desserts and beverages Eric Raddatz not see at first glance. ■ Cornish Memorial African Meth- such as an Ephemere Apple Spiced Ale in ■ [email protected] The Café 509 Southard St. 305-296- odist Episcopal Zion Church 702 White- a tall beer glass with a signature caramel 5515; www.thecafekw.com. This cozy, head St. Established in 1864 by former rim-job. Lick it good. Assistant Presentation Editor innovative restaurant has been redefining slave Sandy Cornish and his wife, Lillah. ■ Deuces “Off the Hook” Grill 728 Hannah Kruse vegetarian cuisine for over 13 years. With a The current building was built in 1894. Simonton St. 305-414-8428; www.offthe- warm Bohemian décor that includes local ■ The Reverend Long organized the hookkeywest.com. Tucked into a quiet Production Manager art adorning the walls, the menu offers a Bethel A.M.E Church in 1870 at 712 neighborhood, Off the Hook serves break- variety of options to suit all tastes along Alisa Bowman Duval St. It was destroyed by a fire in fast and lunch, but the creative and well- with craft beers, organic wines and an [email protected] 1922 and the congregation then moved to executed dinner menu featuring fresh sea- array of sangria flavors plus fresh juices, the corner of Thomas Street and Truman food is especially enticing. Grouper in a Graphic Designers flavored house-made tonics or cafe kom- Avenue. The building features masonry French bouillabaisse broth, Fish and Chips Chris Andruskiewicz bucha on tap. Omnivores will appreciate walls, twin towers in front and pointed- featuring mahi-mahi, and slow roasted Paul Heinrich • Scott Sleeper seafood dishes such as blackened mahi arch windows reminiscent of the Gothic Jamaican jerk chicken thighs are recom- mahi and PEI mussels. The famous veggie Circulation Manager revival style. mended along with dark chocolate cov- burger is not to be missed along with the ered banana bread for dessert. The Duck Michael Gagliardi falafel, house-made spring rolls, quinoa ■ Key West Island Bookstore 513 [email protected] Fleming St. 305-294-2904; www.Keywes- BLT pizza is also delicious. It’s a small and avocado salad, stir-fries or fresh fish space, so reservations are recommended. chimichurri tacos. Finish with vegan key tislandbooks.com. This decades-old bou- Business Office Manager lime cheesecake or the vegan carrot cake. tique bookstore offers a surprisingly var- ■ La Rubia Authentic Panama Hats Kelli Carico Everything is made from scratch, so be ied wealth of current and used titles, from 510 Fleming St. 305-296-6059; www.laru- sure to check out the nightly specials. best sellers to rare titles. Often open late, biakeywest.com. The Florida Keys’ only Published by The Cafe also has an extensive weekend it’s an inviting place to browse among the importer of authentic Panama hats. The Florida Media Group LLC brunch menu with bottomless mimosas. crowded stacks. owners developed this boutique to carry 100 Grinnell Street • Key West, FL 33040 Grab a comfy colorful seat in front of the ■ Cuban Coffee Queen 284 Margaret on the centuries-old tradition of hand 305.363.1310 window or opt for takeout. They deliver. St. 305-292-4747; www.cubancoffeequeen. weaving hats, which come from Ecuador, and not Panama, by the way. There are www.FloridaWeekly.com ■ 2 Cents Restaurant & Pub 416 Apple- com. The strong Cuban coffee at this hole in the wall is also rich in Key West heri- styles for men and women in a wide array routh Lane, 305-414-8626; www.2centskw. of colors and weaves. They also offer com. This restaurant is right behind Leath- tage. A Café Con Leche paired with a clas- sic Cuban sandwich or some Havana rice a nice selection of wearable, fair trade Copyright: The contents of the Florida Weekly are copyright 2017 er Master and just off Duval, but it’s hard by Florida Media Group, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without items. ■ the express written consent of Florida Media Group, LLC.
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Getting around Key West
1. Southernmost Point formers, local artisans, food carts, palm- 8. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum 305-294-2116 The corner of South Street and ists and psychics. 200 Greene St., Key West www.Audubonhouse.com Whitehead Street 305-294-2633 Original lithographs by John James www.southernmostpointwebcam.com 5. Truman Little White House www.melfisher.org Audubon are on display the former home The city of Key West erected this now 111 Front St. Exhibits include treasures from the of shipwreck salvager Captain John Geiger. famous concrete buoy in 1983 to denote www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com Spanish galleons of 1622 discovered by the southernmost point in the continen- The Little White House adds a presi- Mel Fisher and his crew. 12. Key West City Cemetery tial United States. dential luster to the Conch Republic. Orig- Bordered by Angela, Frances, Olivia inally built for Naval officers in 1890 and 9. Mile Marker 0 Sign Streets and Windsor Lane 2. Conch Tour Train used as a command headquarters in three 490 Whitehead St., corner of Fleming 305-292-6718 303 Front St., Key West wars, the Little White House later served Street www.Friendsofthekeywestcemetary. 305-294-5161 or 888-916-8687 as lodging for President Harry S. Tru- U.S. 1 begins here in Key West, contin- com www.conchtourtrain.com man’s winter retreats from 1946 to 1952. ues 2,369 miles north up the East Coast, Stop by the sexton’s office near the The Conch Train has been winding and ends in Fort Kent, Maine. Stop here entrance at Passover Lane and Windsor its way through the streets of Key West 6. The Ernest Hemingway to commemorate your visit to Key West Lane for a map containing a free walking since 1958. Home & Museum with a photo next to the iconic Mile tour. 907 Whitehead St., Key West Marker 0 sign. 3. Sloppy Joe’s 305-294-1136 13. Fort Zachary Taylor 201 Duval St. www.hemingwayhome.com 10. Key West Express Ferry State Park and Beach 305-294-5717 Take the tour and say hello to one of Terminal Located at the ocean end of Southard www.sloppyjoes.com the 40 to 50 six-toed cats, all descendants 100 Grinnell Street Street and bordering the Naval Reserva- The historic bar has been a Key West of Hemingway’s cat, Snowball. 239-463-5733 tion. tradition since it opened in 1933. Its most www.Keywestexpress.net 305-295-0037 famous patrons were Ernest Hemming- 7. The Key West Butterfly Traveling via the Express is truly the www.Fortzacharytaylor.com way and the rum runner Habana Joe. & Nature Conservatory best way to get between Key West, Fort “Fort Zach” is known to locals and 1316 Duval St., Key West Myers Beach or Marco Island. You’ll tourists alike as one of Key West’s best 4. Mallory Square Sunset 305-296-2988 or 800-839-4647 enjoy air-conditioned interiors, exteri- beaches. In addition to the expansive Celebration www.keywestbutterfly.com or sun decks, couches, tables and even beach, there are nature trails, bike paths, 1 Whitehead St., Key West More than 50 different butterfly spe- reclining airline-style seating. There’s a and Historic Fort Zachary Taylor all with- 786-565-7448 cies from around the world and 20 dif- full-service galley, full-service bar and in a 54-acre park with picnic tables and www.sunsetcelebration.org ferent exotic bird species coexist in this flat-screen TVs with satellite television. grills. Experience the beautiful view of This nightly festival begins at the climate-controlled, glass-enclosed habitat the Atlantic Ocean and the Key West water’s edge about and hour or two that includes waterfalls, flowering plants 11. Audubon House and Garden Shipping Channel. ■ before sunset and includes street per- and trees. 205 Whitehead Street FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A5 PRESENTED BY THEATER NEW YEAR’S EVE IN KEY WEST
DECEMBER 31 / 2017
TRUMAN WATERFRONT PARK AMPHITHEATER: 21 QUAY RD., KEY WEST FL 33040
COURTESY PHOTO Dave Bootle and Carolyn Cooper star as Ever and Senga. ‘Dancing Lessons’: An unexpected enchantment opens Red Barn’s 38th season
Mark St. Germain hadn’t intended may be permanent, and she is not a little to write the play. He had no interest in embittered. She has, in fact, shut out the autism or dancers, and the “challenged world. man meets challenged woman” trope Until today. Because today, Ever has never been his métier. Mark’s plays knocks on Senga’s door and within sec- have always had a historical aspect to onds of her answering, offers her an them, loosely based on real people and outrageous sum of money if she would the situations that defined them. give him an hour’s lesson in dancing. He But a chance meeting with a friend’s is being feted at an awards ceremony autistic son changed all that, and a at his college and he doesn’t want to delightful new play, “Dancing Lessons,” be conspicuous. Thus begins the tale resulted. Called “simply brilliant” by of two very different people thrown by Broadway World, and “a charming 95 life into a cauldron, where wonderful, minutes of enchantment” by All Things very funny, often touching things can Considered, it may well be Mark’s finest happen. work. And the kicker is, though these “They somehow make it work in a characters are fictional, they couldn’t very strange way,” said Dave at rehears- be more real in terms of life and living. al recently. “It’s an odd relationship We’ve all met someone like them in our that probably shouldn’t happen, but it own lives. does, and we love it. There are some The South Florida pre- really, really funny parts 3:30 PM: GATES OPEN miere of the delightful in this play, but it will 4:45 PM: “Dancing Lessons” will really touch your heart THE ANDY WESTCOTT BANDAND kick off the Red Barn as well.” 5:45 PM: CAFFEINE CARL & THE BUZZBUZZ Theatre’s 38th season The beauty of the play and run through Jan. 13. is that it asks us to think 7:15 PM: EDDIE MONEY Directed by the Barn’s about which of these artistic director, Joy two characters is more Hawkins, the play stars impaired — the one hob- Dave Bootle and Carolyn bled by injury or the one Cooper, both turning in hobbled by an inability TICKETS AT: stellar performances that to respond appropriately CCONCERTSINTHEKEYS.COMON COM stretch them beyond anything they’ve to social cues. Mark has us look at the done before. layers of emotional and psychological The play is focused on Ever and truths that can be revealed by such a Senga, New Yorkers who live two floors situation, and the common ground that apart in the same apartment building. can be discovered. And the ending — BEER, WINE AND Ever is a brilliant professor of geosci- without revealing anything — is unex- LOCAL FOODS! ences at a local college, whose expertise pected and totally enchanting. is global warming but he has trouble Berkshire on Stage said of the play, with any other kind of warmth as he is, “it takes us to the verge of tears even in his words, an “Aspy” — a person with as we are laughing delightedly… .” Arts- Asperger’s syndrome, a high-function- Fuse called it “provocative, fresh, and ing condition on the autism spectrum. unexpectedly moving.” And the Orlando He is unable to tolerate even the most Sentinel said it’s “an off-kilter love story, minimal physical contact and does not a witty comedy.” even make eye contact all that often. “Dancing Lessons” will run Tuesdays Senga, on the other hand, is a suc- through Saturdays. All Tuesday per- cessful Broadway dancer coping with formances are at 7 p.m., while all other a potentially career-ending leg injury, days are at 8 p.m. Tickets are available PRODUCED BY and not handling it well. Dancing had now at www.redbarntheatre.com and been her everything, and her injury can be purchased individually or as part has left her adrift in life and the world, of a four-show subscription. You can encumbered by a massive leg brace that also call the theater at 305-296-9911. ■ A6 WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST BARTENDER OF THE WEEK Lyndsey Varvatos: Island Girl BY JENNIFER WHITE Florida Weekly Correspondent
Benny and Tommy had quite an adventurous 2017. The dogs survived Hurricane Irma at a boarding house on the island of St. John while their owner, Lyndsey Varvatos, was on vacation in New York City. By the time she found out about the approaching superstorm, all flights to the Caribbean were can- celed. Minute by minute updates of their rescue appeared on her Facebook page as a large number of Key West locals watched anxiously with their fingers crossed. St. John suffered immense damage and is still recovering. The property where Lyndsey lived along with Benny, Tommy and her boyfriend no longer was a house to come back to when the skies cleared. As soon as she was able to fly to Puerto Rico, she arranged for some- one to transport her dogs via dive boat to a neighboring island. Lyndsey was reunited with her dogs and was able fly them to where she grew up in Connecti- cut. Three days later, Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. It is now a couple of months later and the dogs are about to see snow for the very first time. Clearly, their adventures aren’t over yet. Her journey south to Key West started at the University of South Florida in Tampa, where she majored in criminol- ogy. A few Florida Keys vacations were
enough to convince her to turn the short- JENNIFER WHITE / FLORIDA WEEKLY FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A7 BARTENDER OF THE WEEK
“I like to created cocktails, but I’m more of a people person and I’m high volume. I love interacting with people and meeting people from all walks of life. I’m not a cubicle lady; moving around is something that I enjoy. And it allows me to travel.”
— Lindsey Varvatos term roundtrip into a long-term one-way bartending. It’s what she did when she once she graduated. As luck would have moved to St. John at the Beach Bar on it, she quickly landed a job at the SPCA the waterfront of Cruz Bay, what she doing animal control. From there, she did when she scored her first job at Club worked at a vet clinic, until eventually, Hedo in Tampa and what she does now one bartending shift turned into another and seems to really enjoy doing. which turned into a full-time gig. These “So how do you even get a job in a days you can find Lyndsey filling in at place like this? Isn’t it pretty difficult?” Rick’s, at 801 Bourbon Bar on Tuesdays, I ask, knowing that these are two of the Fridays and Saturdays, and across the busiest bars in town with hardly any staff street at Bourbon Street on Wednesdays. turnover. Almost all of her shifts are late night “I don’t know,” Lyndsey answers, while until just a couple hours shy of sunrise. considering the question. “At first, I was “801 is highly entertaining and a lot of hired at Rick’s and then the manager fun,” she explains, “but at Bourbon it is COURTESY PHOTO of 801 had been my friend for a while, kind of fun to be one of the only women Lyndsey Varvatos’ dogs, Benny and Tommy, rode out Hurricane Irma at her home in St. John, so when they needed somebody I just to have worked there.” Puerto Rico, while she was on vacation in New York City. started doing one day a week and that Lyndsey had a Key West area code for self-expression in whatever way you the trip she makes up the Florida Keys to just turned into more.” seven years before she moved to St. John, choose and, for Lyndsey, it’s a hospitality see her horse, Freddie. Lindsey trained Obviously, the gig stuck, and not once so it makes sense that this was the place that is casual. horses at the age of 6 and owned her but twice. It seems to me that she fits she came back to after the hurricane. “I like to created cocktails, but I’m first horse at the age of 13. Freddie is her right in. Having already worked at Rick’s and 801 more of a people person and I’m high second horse, now of 17 years. She keeps “Key West is a very special place Bourbon Bar made her a familiar face no volume,” she tells me. “I love interacting him close by in a stable in Islamorada, with unique people and an awesome matter what side of town you were on. with people and meeting people from all where she can visit him as much as pos- sense of community,” Lyndsey says. “I If Rick’s is Old Town’s essential enter- walks of life. I’m not a cubicle lady; mov- sible. love that I’m able to walk or ride a bike tainment complex in the 200 block of ing around is something that I enjoy. And Along with her love for animals, Lynd- everywhere, the beautiful weather and Duval, then the 800 block bars where it allows me to travel.” sey enjoys scuba diving, going to the definitely the people. And I’m an island Lyndsey works are bars you’ll want to Though she has traveled all over the beach or the pool, riding bikes, spin girl at this point.” visit to just be yourself with no strings world, including throughout Europe, the class, fishing and shopping though not I’d say that she’s definitely earned that attached. There is no falsehood or pre- most important travel for her might be necessarily in that order. And of course, title. ■ tentiousness. These bars are all about A8 WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST KEY WEST CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Thursday Night Comedy Show www.smokingtunasaloon.com Homegrown SPECIAL EVENTS Thursday, 7:30 - 10 p.m. Photographs by Michael Marrero The Blue Room Sloppy Joe’s Ongoing “Inspecting Carol” 1128 Simonton St. 201 Duval St. Gallery on Greene Dec. 28, 29, 30, Jan. 2 and 3, 8 p.m. Tickets available at Live Music Nightly 606 Greene St. Waterfront Playhouse www.comedykeywest.com Check the schedule at www.galleryongreene.com 407 Wall St. www.sloppyjoes.com Tickets at www.waterfrontplayhouse. org Irish Kevin’s 211 Duval St. “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” Live Music Nightly Dec. 28, 29 and 30, Jan. 1 and 2, 8 p.m. Check the schedule at The Key West Theater www.irishkevins.com 512 Eaton St. Tickets at www.thekeywestheater.com Little Room Jazz Club 821 Duval St. “Dancing Lessons” Live Jazz Nightly Dec. 28, 29 and 30, Jan. 2 and 3, 8 p.m. (7 MUSIC Check the schedule at CINEMA p.m. on Tuesdays) www.littleroomjazzclub,com Red Barn Theatre Berlin’s Cigar and Cocktail Tropic Cinema 319 Duval St. (rear) Lounge Mary Ellen’s 416 Eaton St. Tickets at www.redbarntheatre.com A&B Lobster House 420 Appelrouth Lane www.tropiccinema.com 700 Front St. Open Mic with Comedy Key West, Check the website for ongoing films Eddie Money Bria Ansara, Fridays and Saturdays, 7 to Mondays, 9 p.m. Dec. 31, 7:15 - 10 p.m. 10 p.m. Drunken Spelling Bee, First Monday Truman Waterfront Park Amphitheatre of each month, 9 p.m. Tickets at www.eventbrite.com The Porch Trivia, Tuesday Nights, 6:30 p.m. 429 Caroline St. SIN Night (Service Industry Night), Check the schedule at Wednesdays 8 p.m. - 4 a.m. www.Theporchkw.com Green Parrot Bar PHOTOGRAPHY 601 Whitehead St. Live Music Nightly Photographs from the permanent collection Check the schedule at LGBT COMEDY www.greenparrot.com Ongoing Key West Art and Historical Society Aqua Nightclub Custom House Smoking Tuna 711 Duval St. Comedy Open Mike Night 281 Front St. 4 Charles St. Aqua Idol for the Florida Keys SPCA Mondays, 9 p.m. www.Kwahs.org Mary Ellen’s Bar and Restaurant Live Music Nightly Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. 420 Appelrouth Lane Check the schedule at Drag Shows FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A9 KEY WEST CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Nightly, 7 and 9 p.m. Karaoke Monday through Thursday, 11 p.m. www.Aquakeywest.com #KW Bobby’s Monkey Bar 900 Simonton St. Karaoke-Nightly except Wednesdays, 9:30 p.m. Bobby’s Monkey Bar on Facebook Bourbon St. Pub 724 Duval St. Just Jeff (Moss) - Thursdays through Sundays, 8 to 10 p.m. 11.15 Bria - Monday through Wednesdays 8 to 10 p.m. Ronnie - Mondays through Wednesdays, 3 to 8 p.m. The Men of Bourbon - Nightly www.BourbonSt.pub.com 801 Bourbon Bar 801 Duval St. ■ A struggling theater company tries to spice up its Drag Shows - Nightly, 9 and 11 p.m. Happy Hour Drag - 5 p.m. Saturdays annual production of “A Christmas Carol.” Don’t miss Drag Karaoke - 4 p.m. Sundays “Inspecting Carol,” Dec. 28, 29, 30, Jan. 2 and 3, 8 Messy Mondays with Mulysa - 1 a.m. Mondays p.m., Waterfront Playhouse, 407 Wall St. Fierce and Fabulous/Dragalicious- — www.waterfrontplayhouse.org 1 a.m. Wednesdays www.801bourbon.com 12.28-30, 1.2-3 Island House 1129 Fleming St. ■ Get your “Two Tickets to Paradise” on ■ Don’t miss the the www.Islandhousekeywest.com New Year’s Eve. It’s rock legend Eddie Tony Award-winning rock La Te Da Money, Dec. 31, 7:15 to 10 p.m., Truman musical “Hedwig and the 1125 Duval St. Waterfront Park Amphitheatre Angry Inch,” Dec. 28, 29 Randy Roberts, Dec. 29 and 31, 9 p.m. 3 Sum, Dec. 28, 29, 30 and 31, 8:30 p.m. and 30, Jan. 1 and 2, 8 Christopher Peterson, Dec. 28 and 30, — www.eventbrite.com p.m., The Key West Theater, Jan. 1 and 2, 9 p.m. 512 Eaton St. Dave Bootle, Jan.1, 2 and 3, 8:30 p.m. Tea Dance-Sundays 4 to 6:30 p.m. — www.thekeywestheater. com 12.31 12.28-30 1.1-2 ■ “Dancing Lessons,” 12.28-30, 1.2-3 Dec. 28, 29 and 30, Jan. 2 and 3, 8 p.m. (7 p.m. on www.Lateda.com Tuesdays), Red AROUND KEY WEST Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St. (rear) Ghost Tours and Ghost Hunts — www. Nightly 301 Whitehead St. and 1102 Duval St. redbarntheatre. 305-395-1435 com www.hauntedkeywest.com ■ A10 WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST
COURTESY PHOTOS New Year’s eve revelers celebrate in front of the iconic Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval St.
edly nautical (but equally naughty) take on Sushi’s dramatic descent at Bourbon NYE Street Pub, Schooner Warf’s “Lowering From page 1 of the Pirate Wench” party has become a New Year’s destination for live music lovers, with a packed lineup of some of towards the heavens, mesmerized by large the island’s most popular acts. Schooner shiny objects (or people perched atop Wharf has dubbed itself “a last little piece those objects) descending towards the of old Key West,” which on New Year’s crowd and heralding new beginnings for roughly translates into a no-frills al fresco us all (and crushing champagne hang- hangout for those in search of strong overs for many. Bottoms up!). drinks, a lively stage scene and a quirky In 1907, some fun-hating curmudgeon ball drop that the Huffington Post includ- banned fireworks in New York City, forc- ed in their 2014 Amazing New Year’s Pho- ing The New York Times to find a novel tos from Around the World slideshow. At way to ring in the new year. Inspired the stroke of midnight, bar owner Evalena by the Western Union Telegraph’s time Worthington — corseted, beaming and ball (originally designed to signal time dressed in the highest of swashbuckling to sailors), Times owner Adolph Ochs fashion — descends to the sound of can- arranged for a 700-hundred-pound iron non fire and trumpets from her perch and wood ball to be lowered from the top atop a high mast, set against an oversize of the Times Tower. Little did old Ochs lighted-up countdown, and brandishing a know just how revolutionary his work- sword at the crowd bellowing Auld Lang around would be. At the time, The New Syne below. The bar gives out complimen- York Times wrote that as the clock struck tary hats, party favors and horns to party- midnight and the ball reached the ground, The entrance to Blue Heaven restaurant on Petronia St. goers, all of whom are encouraged to “above all else came the wild human hul- the screaming crowd beneath her, she is of authentically shabby décor that restau- make as much noise as humanly possible labaloo of noise.” fabulously regal and famously acerbic, rant designers spend thousands trying to (a “wild human hullaballoo” if you will). Though printed 110 years ago, “wild spouting cheeky commentary, showing recreate. Just off Duval Street, tucked behind human hullabaloo” is quite possibly the off the handmade gown she’s fashioned The bar’s conch shell drop, now in its what some might assume is the garden most appropriate phrase ever written to for the occasion and keeping a watchful 25th year, is the brainchild of local art- of a private mansion, beloved local’s bars describe what New Year’s Eve in Key West eye on the madness below. Many hours ist Tobias McGregor, who decades ago The Porch and The Other Side are serv- is like. Ochs, you may have had a brilliant before midnight, the scene at Bourbon felt that the roving, random crowds that ing their usual dose of quirky, millennial- idea once, but in true Key West fashion Street Pub is hopping with a parade of swarm Duval Street each New Year’s Eve friendly New Year’s fun. This event has we have taken that idea and embellished performers (including this lucky writer) needed a single event at which to convene become one of the most sought after on it in more than one weird and wonderful taking the stage to strut and preen as and celebrate in unison. A ball drop, like the island, tending to fill up faster than way. You want a ball drop? We’ve got four, the street becomes impossibly full. By the one at Times Square, seemed like almost any other in town. This year is no though around here dropping a ball seems the time Sushi is dropped — carefully, the perfect solution. But of course, Key exception; especially since the magnani- a little pedestrian. This year in Key West, elegantly, and to much fanfare — at the West’s notoriously kooky crowds would mous owners are letting guests in for free, we’ll be dropping a busty pirate wench, stroke of midnight, it’s standing room only need something a little bit weirder than allowing everyone an up-close glimpse of a glittering disco unicorn, a queen conch for blocks, a nose-to-drunken-nose rev- a disco ball to gather beneath. A massive the famous unicorn-shaped disco ball that shell and a drag queen perched inside an elry that television channels can’t help but replica of Key West’s beloved indigenous the bar drops each New Year’s Eve (carved enormous red shoe. show in split-screen next to some frigid sea snail was rigged up, and using a and decorated painstakingly by local Capt. For decades, Key West’s New Year’s northern New Year’s celebration in Bos- TV across the street tuned to the Times Jeremy Hackworth of Zia Charters). With Eve celebrations have made national ton or Chicago (sorry not sorry, I’ll be the Square countdown to keep time, the shell legendary DJ Jimmy Cooper spinning news, which is a pretty big deal for a city girl in a tiny little dress instead of a parka). was lowered manually. The technology records, the party is sure to extend far so small that the entire island shares the Down the street, another street party has gotten a little more advanced since past midnight. same zip code. Turn on CNN around will be going strong under the shadow those early days, and the presence of Does all of this sound a little over- 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 and you’re likely to of an enormous conch shell, the “ball” of Mardi Gras-style plastic beads flung from whelming? We understand. Sometimes all see shots of a barely clothed crowd danc- choice for iconic watering hole Sloppy high above means keeping an eye out (or you want is a delicious meal, a nice glass ing wildly under the watchful, glamorous Joe’s. The bar, one of the oldest in Key risking having one’s eye be taken out by a of champagne and the company of far gaze of Gary Marion, better known as West, has an impressive history, dating cheap necklace), but the crowd remains fewer than the thousands of bodies that Sushi, Key West’s resident Grand Dame back to the days of Prohibition. Begun as the same in spirit: boozy, jovial, and a little will be swarming on and around Duval of the Drag Queens. This will be Sushi’s an illegal speakeasy, it was Ernest Heming- bit swarthy with a heavy dose of tropical Street. Allow us here at Florida Weekly 21st year inside the custom-made cherry way — allegedly a big fan of the illicit flair. Key West to throw out a few suggestions red shoe that has become her traditional scotch that bar owner Joe Russell doled Down by the waterfront, sailors and sea for a delicious way to end your 2017. New Year’s Eve throne. Each year, Sushi out in secret — who convinced Russell to lovers convene each year at the unpreten- If you want to stay close to the action, climbs gracefully into her sequined shoe change the bar’s name from Silver Slipper tious waterfront hangout Schooner Wharf Rooftop Café on Front Street will be offer- and is hoisted up above Key West’s most to its now renowned moniker. It’s been Bar, where there’s another gal in the sky ing an extravagant menu including the famous gay bar and drag cabaret, the over 80 years, but Sloppy Joe’s remains as waiting to be dropped into a crowd of traditional prime rib, lobster, and tons of Bourbon Street Pub. Perched high above charmingly sloppy as ever, with the kind drunken and delirious patrons. A decid- other local favorites. Right around the FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A11 corner on Mallory Square, El Meson de Traditional though his inspiration may Pepe will be cooking up traditional Cuban be, Dorsty’s flavors are anything but. “I favorites and dropping a cigar as the clock tried to make every option be amazing strikes midnight. in its own way,” he says. “For example, I But if you want to get off Duval and decided to feature cobia this year because away from the hordes of rowdy revel- it’s very sustainable and has a very fatty ers, we suggest you get way off and head amazing texture. I’m rubbing the cobia down to Blue Heaven on Petronia Street. with koji, which is a mold that grows on Though Blue Heaven is practically syn- rice that the Japanese use as the basis for onymous with brunch, dinner at this local miso and sake. It adds an amazing umami favorite is served seven nights a week and, flavor to the cobia, which I plan to bal- thanks to innovative chef David Dorsty, ance with a kohlrabi puree and a baby you may find yourself wondering why the watercress and apple salad with a pecan hell you’re getting up so early to avoid brown butter.” the endless breakfast wait when dinner at Since Blue Heaven’s clientele come Blue Heaven is so divine — and that’s just from all walks of life, Dorsty endeavors to on any given Wednesday. New Year’s Eve be as inclusive as possible. at Blue Heaven is another beast entirely. “Many restaurants serve vegetarian “New Year’s Eve is the one night of the dishes, but I’m excited to be featuring year that we actually put white tablecloths completely vegan options as starters and down on the tables,” Dorsty says. “We total- main courses,” Dorsty says. “For example, ly transform the restaurant for the night. We the uttapam starter is almost like an Indian may feature one or two items on the menu breakfast item that has transcended into that are from our original dinner menu, but ROB O’NEAL / FLORIDA KEYS NEWS BUREAU/HO meal. It’s a fermented rice and lentil pan- the rest are all one-night-only specials.” Evalena Worthington, costumed as a pirate wench, practices being lowered from the mast of the cake that I put masala butternut squash on Those specials start with a glass of cham- sailing vessel America 2.0 outside the Schooner Wharf Bar late Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, in Key West. and top with a watercress salad, mango pagne (the authentic kind from France, not The Pirate Wench Drop, set for New Year’s Eve, is one of four distinct drops Key West offers to chutney, house made coconut yogurt, and that cheap bubble water most restaurants answer New York City’s Times Square ball drop to mark the beginning of the New Year. toasted nigella seeds.” trick you with) and an amuse bouche, and As a girl who loves a nice fat steak as with chef Dorsty at the helm, it’s a given that be serving an intermezzo between the culinary New Year’s Eve traditions as a often as she can get one, I would take that your bouche will most definitely be amused. starters and the mains. (For those of you jumping off point for his exciting offer- uttapam down without hesitation. For a “We try to be very inclusive,” Dorsty currently frantically Googling “intermez- ings. fixed price of $92 plus tax and gratuity for explains. “The planned amuse might be zo,” — an intermezzo is a palate cleanser “We all have these little superstitions all the above, I would wager that he won’t swordfish pastrami, but if you can’t have served between courses, frequently in the about what we should be eating to bring have an empty seat in the house. Make those things then I’ll whip up a cashew form of a light sorbet.) money and happiness in the new year,” your reservations ASAP at 305-296-8666. cheese with pickled cucumber.” After the “I collaborate with (local ice creamery) Dorsty says. “For example, we’re pairing No matter how you choose to spend your amuse, guests will have their choice of Flamingo Crossing on the intermezzo every our heritage pork with lentils because Key West New Year’s Eve, may you close an incredibly eclectic array of starters, year because we always do sorbet of some they’re a symbol of prosperity. We also out your 2017 eager to embrace all the prom- including carrot curry soup, warm coffee sort,” Dorsty says. “This year we’re featuring know that people come to restaurant on ise every new year holds. And for my New and bourbon braised beet salad, vegan a green tomato sorbet with fresh mint.” New Year’s Eve expecting surf and turf, so Year’s resolution, I choose to echo Dorsty: butternut masala uttapam (more on that Not only does this sound like some- this year most of the main courses are surf “Live life to its fullest. Don’t spend your later), smoked lobster and avocado salad, thing I need to keep in my freezer at all and turf.” These include heritage pork and whole life planning for the future; have your and scallops Provençal. times, but it’s even better that Dorsty is clams, Key West Pink shrimp and house future today. And don’t hold yourself back As if the white tablecloths weren’t collaborating with another local business smoked duck ham, Florida lobster tail and because you’re not guaranteed any moment already a sign that this dinner is some- to enhance his meal. ‘nduja, and leg of lamb with an octopus beyond the present.” thing special, chef Dorsty will actually For the main courses, Dorsty is using croquette. A hearty cheers to that. ■ Stay Healthy!Stay Fit!
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Your guide to where the locals go for Half Shell Raw Bar happy hour drink and food specials. 231 Margaret St. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Alonzo’s 2-for-1 drink specials 700 Front St. Special happy hour food menu 4-6:30 p.m. www.Halfshellrawbar.com Half-price appetizers www.alonzoysterbar.com Hogfish Bar and Grill 6810 Front St. Bagatelle 4-6 p.m. 115 Duval St. Drink specials and special happy 4-6 p.m. hour menu Half-price drinks www.Hogfishbar.com $5 appetizers www.Bagatellekeywest.com Island Dogs Bar 505 Front St. Blackfin 4-6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday 918 Duval St. Half-price well drinks, bottled beer 4:30-6:30 p.m. and wine by the glass $7 menu Half-price oysters, special $5.95 menu Blue Macaw Island Eats and Bar www.Islanddogsbar.com 804 Whitehead St. Little Room Jazz Club Every day with live music 821 Duval St. 4-7 p.m. 3-8 p.m. The Roost 4-7 p.m. daily $3 well drinks, domestic beers and $4 Craft Your Own Aperitif Cocktail, 508 Fleming St. 2-for-1 Margaritas or well drinks house wines 2 for $8 wines, 2 for $5 beers. 3 to 6 p.m. www.Galleonresort.com www.Bluemacawkeywest.com $10 Stoli Elite Martinis www.Littleroomjazzclub.com Tattoos and Scars Boathouse Bar and Grill Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar and Roostica Pizzeria 512 Greene St. 400 Greene St., #408 Restaurant 5620 MacDonald Ave. Stella on draft $4 all day 4-6 p.m. 320 Grinnell St. 4-6 p.m. www.Tattoosandscarssaloon.com Half-price well drinks and beers Drink specials and special happy 4-7 p.m. Tiki House www.Boathousebarandgrill.com hour menu Half off appetizers, $3 well drinks, 430 Greene St. draft beer and house wine www.Roostica.com Bobby’s Monkey Bar 4-6 p.m. www.Keywest.lucysretiredsurfers. Noon-8 p.m. Sand Bar Sports Grill 2 for 1 wells, drafts and Zombies com $3 well drinks 511 Greene St. www.tikihousekw.com $2.50 domestic beers Check the website for daily specials Martin’s Turtle Kraals $3 imports Sandbarkeywest.com 917 Duval St. 231 Margaret St. $2 Pringles and $2 Slim Jims www.Sand Bar Sports Grill Key West 4-6 p.m. 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Facebook Conch Republic Seafood Half-price drinks and tapas Half off bottled beers, well drinks and www.Martinskeywest.com 631 Greene St. Santiago’s Bodega house wines 4-7 p.m. Mary Ellens’s Bar 207 Petronia St. Special happy hour menu 2-for-1 drink specials 420 Appelrouth Lane 3-6 p.m. www.Turtlekraals.com www.Conchrepublicseafood.com Half-price drinks 3-6 p.m. Two Friends Patio Restaurant $5 tapas Dante’s 2-4-1 wells and drafts, $5 Jameson, $5 512 Front St. www.Santiagosbodega.com 951 Caroline St. Titos 4-6 p.m. www.maryellensbar.com Monday through Friday Southernmost Beach Café Early bird dinner specials 4-8 p.m. Old Town Mexican Café 1405 Duval St. www.Twofriendskw.com Half off domestic beers and well Sunday through Thursday 609 Duval St. Vinos on Duval drinks 4-7 p.m. $5 small bites bar menu, $5 draft $3.50 Jagermeister and Fireball beer, house wine, well drinks 810 Duval St. Half-price appetizers 4-7 p.m. $4 Jameson Half-price beer, wine and well drinks and house margaritas www. www.Danteskeywest.com Southernmostbeachcafe.com $5 Sangria Pepe’s Sundays Geiger Key Marina 806 Caroline St. Square Grouper Bar and Grill $5 mimosas 5 Geiger Road 4-6 p.m. 22658 Overseas Highway, Cudjoe KKey www.Vinosonduval.com 4-6 p.m. Square Grouper Half-price raw and baked oysters Viva Saloon Drink specials and special happy 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday through $5 fresh-squeezed Margaritas 903 Duval St. hour menu Saturday Discounted well drinks, beer and 4-6 p.m. www.Geigerkeymarina.com Lunch Specials and $7 well drinks wine $3 well drinks, $1 off all beer and www.Pepeskeywest.com My New Joint Green Parrot Bar 4:20-6:30 p.m. house wine, $5 appetizers www.Vivakeywest.com 601 Whitehead St. Pinchers Crab Shack 25 percent off bottled and canned 4-7 p.m. Monday through ThThursday d 712 Duval St. beers Willie T’s Restaurant and Bar 4-5:30 p.m. Fridays $1 off draft beer and wine by the glass 3-6 p.m. 525 Duval St. Discounts on selected drinks and Oysters, clams, shrimp, wings 75 $6 cocktail specials daily beers 4-7 p.m. cents each Happy hour menu and late-night Daily drink specials www.Greenparrot.com menu www.Pinchersusa.com www.Williets.com Check the websites for details The Grand The Porch www.Squaregroupbarandgrill.com Wine-O at La Concha Hotel 314 Duval St. 429 Caroline St. www.Mynewjoint420lounge.com 430 Duval St. 5-7:30 p.m. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Daily Half price wine, cocktails and beer Sunset Tiki Bar at the Galleon Resort $2 off draft beer and wine by the glass Buy one, get one free on selected Half price appetizers www.Theporchkw.com 617 Front St. glasses of wine 10 a.m.-noon (except Sundays) www.Laconchakeywest.com ■ 2-for-1 Bloody Marys Replenish. Rejuvinate. Revive. ivsinthekeys.comt 531 Whitehead Street Key West, FL t305-395-8245 FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A13 AMSTERDAM’S Its namesake never saw it, Curry but Audubon House still worth a look Mansion Inn A Historic Bed & Breakfast with a daily BY MAXINE LOPEZ-KEOUGH cocktail party and a nightly happy hour. Florida Weekly Correspondent Located half a block from Duval Street with renowned restaurants, legendary It’s midway through the tour of Key bars, live music, theater and shopping. West’s stunningly pretty Audubon House and Tropical Gardens that the truth comes Self-Guided Tours Daily out: John James Audubon — famed natu- 8:30AM to 5:00PM ralist painter, whose lifelike paintings of bird portraits line the walls of the museum (Adults: $5.00 donation, Children under 12 are free. $OOSURFHHGVEHQHÀWWKH)ORULGD.H\V63&$ — never actually lived in the Audubon House tours available for non guests House. But don’t let this spoiler keep you 28 Unique Rooms To Choose From from visiting; indeed, a visit to the Audu- All Inclusive Price With Room & Breakfast bon House offers so much beauty, charm &$52/,1(67.(<:(67 and historical interest, you’ll be left feeling (305) 294-5349 only that it was Audubon’s loss that he was COURTESY PHOTO never able to inhabit such a magical place. www.currymansion.com Amassing a fortune from treasure gath- ered from the ruins of shipwrecks might pilot, lived in hermit-like seclusion with- seem like a job description for a storybook out indoor plumbing, electricity or cook- pirate, but in 19th-century Key West, it ing facilities, and by the time of his death was a lucrative and respectable way to in 1956, the house had fallen into ruin. make a living. The busy passage between Slated for demolition, it was saved in the Eastern Seaboard and the Gulf Coast 1958 by Mitchell and Frances Wolfson, was a dangerous place for ships to sail, who were compelled to purchase the and each year saw many boats wrecked on property after hearing it was destined to offshore reefs during the frequent storms become a gas station. The Wolfsons had that pummeled the area. heard the same folklore that speculated “Finders keepers” might not mean James Audubon might have conceived much today, but for those in the wrecking many of his bird portraits during a visit industry of Key West, it was law. When to the gardens of Dr. Benjamin Strobel, a ship ran aground, the first man to reach whose home was located on the prop- the boat became the “wreck master,” who erty where the Geiger family mansion — after saving the crew and passengers, would later be constructed. if possible — directed the salvaging of The Wolfsons began a two-year pro- the ship and its cargo. Back on land, the cess of painstaking renovation, the first recovered haul was auctioned off, with historical renovation of its kind in Key the wreck master taking the largest cut West, at the end of which marked the of the profits. It was a dangerous, highly rechristening of the Geiger home as the competitive and regulated industry, the Audubon House Museum. They filled spoils of which helped solidify Key West the house with antiques, including many as the richest city in the country by the items from the Geiger family, as well as mid-1800s. numerous original hand-colored litho- For Capt. John Huling Geiger, a mari- graphs by Audubon. time pilot whose shipwrecking success Today, the property is cared for through had made him one of the richest men in the Mitchell Wolfson Trust, and remains the Florida Keys, such wealth demanded a reputable dealer of original Audubon a home of appropriate grandeur. In 1846, work. The three-story home is filled with after the rest of the ilsand was mostly precious antiquities and, of course, with flattened in a hurricane, Capt. Geiger Audubon’s work, as well as information chose a prominent lot on which to build about the artist’s life and career. An acre of his family’s new home — a lavish Ameri- lush tropical gardens surrounds the home, can Classic Revival mansion of tropical featuring hundreds of orchids, a koi pond wood at the intersection of Green and and a replica of the property’s original Whitehead streets, with an unobstructed 1850s outdoor kitchen building. ■ view of the ocean (and any new potential shipwrecks). It was a grand, busy estate encompassing 6 acres, home to Capt. Gei- ger, his wife, his children, and a number of slaves who, in addition to domestic The Audubon House chores, were made to assist in the wreck- >> Location: 205 Whitehead St. ing business that fueled Geiger’s wealth. >> Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. For over a century, Capt. Geiger’s >> Tickets: The museum offers discounted home remained in the family’s posses- museum tickets to locals. sion, until Capt. Geiger’s great-grandson, >> Contact: For more information, call (305) Capt. William Bradford Smith, took up 294-2116 or visit www.audubonhouse.com. residence. Smith, a Key West Harbor
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A14 WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 FLORIDA WEEKLY
This is how newest material at the Oriole Club at 1 MONEY a.m. on New Year’s Eve (well, techni- we roll in cally New Year’s Day but who’s keeping From page 1 score that late at night?). Joe went to the Berklee College of Music on a gui- KEY WEST! tar scholarship, but has eschewed his Key West Amphitheater at the Truman familial rock roots in favor of creating Waterfront Park. dubstep beats. Eddie’s son Dez is also From the gate, it’s very clear that a musician and frequently plays guitar Eddie is beyond excited to be perform- in the Eddie Money Band, although you ing in Key West. To be fair, Eddie is won’t catch him onstage for this show beyond excited about everything. Our (you can check out his original material twenty-minute conversation spans at www.dezmoney.com). every topic — from charity work to The gates of the Amphitheater open Tom Petty to his children, with the at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday Dec. 31st, with occasional dirty joke sprinkled in for local outfit The Andy Westcott Band a little extra flavor. “I spent a lot taking the stage at 4:45 p.m. Key West of time in Key West honeymooning guitar god Caffeine Carl and his band around,” Eddie explains. “I made a The Buzz will follow at 5:45 p.m. and record for Criteria Studios and once Eddie Money will start his set at 7:15 we got a couple weeks off I’d go down p.m., giving the audience (and himself) to the Keys. It was really fantastic in plenty of time to get to whichever New the late 70s and 80s and I developed Year’s Eve celebration fits their fancy. friendships with a lot of people down Food and beverages from several local there. Key West is almost like a state favorite vendors will be available on site in itself! And my wife Laurie is coming for all your pre-gaming needs. down with me for the show — I can’t The Truman Waterfront Park Amphi- tell you how exciting that is to me.” theater is a state-of-the-art open air A portion of the proceeds from the venue, situated right on the water at the New Year’s Eve concert will go to local Truman Waterfront. The Amphitheater charity Sister Season Fund, which offers has both general admission seating and financial aid to displaced tourism indus- an elevated lawn that offers great views FREE from Ferry Terminal, Airport ADVENTURE try professionals – a vital support sys- from the grass with enough room to SHUTTLETaWƓ_ƞbg[Xe>ƗlJXfg?bƕTg\ơaf PACKAGES: tem in the wake of Hurricane Irma. dance without annoying your neighbors. Beach “I’m really interested in helping these Leave those lawn chairs at home though Are you ready for a Key West Jeep Adventure? Now, all you people out with the Sister Season Fund,” — this grass is made for blankets and have to do is choose which Jeep you want. We’ve got a wide 5\^X>TlƓ^ Eddie articulates. “They take care of the bare feet. selection of Jeeps to choose from. Whether you want a Paddleboard Adventure people who actually work and live down If you can’t catch the show on Dec. 2-door or 4-door, soft top, hard top or no top at all, we’ve got there and that’s really important. Hur- 31st or just can’t get enough of Eddie the perfect Jeep to suit your style and needs. Scroll through Custom ricane Irma was devastating — it really Money, his brand-new musical “Two the photos of our Jeep fleet and pick the one you want. We threw the Keys for a loop. The flooding Tickets to Paradise: the Eddie Money also have minivans and basic cars available! and the winds caused so much damage Musical” opens in Rochester, N.Y., this and it’s really sad. I’m a Christian and February and will hit Key West during Are You Ready for a Key West Jeep Adventure? CONTACT US! I do what I can for people, so I think its national tour. Eddie and his fam- this whole concert is going to be a lot ily are also the subject of a new reality 3424 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040 of fun.” show on AXS TV called “Real Money,” 305-293-3555www.keywestjeep.com Eddie will be playing the New Year’s billed as an “hilarious and heartfelt look Eve concert with his original band, at the Moneys’ unconventional dynam- which he loves because “we can do any ic, as they live, laugh, bicker and rock all song we want, like ‘Life for the Taking’ under one roof.” and ‘Call on Me.’ I can call songs off the Eddie may only have two tickets to tip of my tongue and they’ll know exact- Paradise, but if you’re in Key West you’re ly how to play them.” Eddie’s daughter already there — now all you need are a Jesse will be singing backup at the show couple tickets to the Eddie Money show. as well. And as if that family connection Tickets can be purchased at www.event- wasn’t enough, Eddie’s son Joe Money brite.com/e/eddie-money-new-years- ELEGANCE (JoJo to his father) will be spinning his eve-in-key-west-tickets-40132924658. ■
American fare served with island charm indoors or out! Try fondue at the garden bar! Michael, Melanie and all the Michaels crew look Our “lite side” menu forward to welcoming you is available every day! this Holiday Season and in 2018
305.295.1300 | 532 Margaret Street, Key West, FL 33040 | Open Daily 5:30pm COURTESY PHOTO MENU AND RESERVATIONS MICHAELSKEYWEST.COM Eddie Money has been a frequent visitor to Key West and is looking forward to his New Year’s Eve Concert at the new Key West Amphitheater. FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A15
RANDY MIRAMONTEZ / SHUTTERSTOCK Eddie Money performing in “Jingle Bell Rock” with Mickey Thomas at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, CA on Dec. 15, 2011.
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Mark Rose and Roberta Jacyshyn met at a jam session in a Colorado jazz club. Roberta was born in Philadelphia, but at the time that she met Mark she was living in Colorado Springs where he had spent most of his life. They quickly found out that they had a common interest and have been agreeing on the subject ever since. “Music is what makes us human,” Mark tells me over a conversation in the quaint and charming back yard of the Gardens Hotel, where he often per- forms for its weekly Jazz in the Gardens on Sundays at 5 p.m. “Everybody speaks music; it’s univer- sal,” Roberta adds. Judging by the way they talk about it, it’s possible that if it wasn’t for music, they may never have met and fallen in love. In the early years, before they got hitched, Mark and Roberta were teach- ers by day and musicians by night. Mark taught fine arts and Roberta led music and theater arts programs. Both were recognized within their professions for their hard work and genuine talent.
JENNIFER WHITE / FLORIDA WEEKLY Sax player Mark Rose with wife, and pianist, Roberta Jacyshyn.
KEY WEST’S BEST ECO-EXPERIENCE &=LK Go Explore
Key West Eco Tours Inc. is locally ownedown and operated business in Key West. OurOur owownersn are passionate about Key West and its uuniquenique sub-tsub-tropicalr eco-system. At Key West Eco Tours Inc, we prpromoteomote coconservation efforts and conduct our tours in accordance with the hihighestgh environmental standards. Come join us and exexperienceperience the natural wonders of Key West and the Florida Keys.
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“The main thing I can say is that I hope people understand that there is a rich tradition of music in Key West. I hope that they support what will make a more vibrant community.”
— Mark Rose
Mark was contracted to play with a Key West on weekends and holidays. ‘There are two types of jazz. Body jazz, “And Roberta has introduced me to long list of famous names including It didn’t take much for them to be con- which is tapping your feet and danc- new composers I have never heard of, Dinah Shore, Bob Newhart and The vinced by the open ocean and the eclec- ing, and head jazz, which is more about especially in the Broadway field,” Mark Temptations, while Roberta was so pas- tic culture that this would be the next thinking.’” shares. sionately dedicated to her career in best place for them to call home for a At the moment, Mark plays along- When all is said and done, it seems education that a scholarship was named while, or maybe forever. They’ve been side local legends Peter Diamond and that the common interest that first after her. In her 30 years of teaching, a living on the island for five years and Tim McAlpine as a pop-jazz saxophon- brought them together is still an impor- few of Roberta’s students would go on have naturally become rooted in a group ist at Grunts Bar, 409 Caroline St., tant part of their life. It has helped to to become high-profile performers on of musicians, who and often joins in shape their story from the classroom to Broadway and in Cirque du Soleil in make music as it with the Paradise the stage and it’s even taken them inter- part because of the importance she put was before solo Big Band or other national. If you are going to be married on schooling. guitarists took brass ensembles to the music, then you might as well “I started playing piano in second over the everyday at hideaway ven- marry someone who is into music, too. grade and you couldn’t pull me away,” bar scene. ues such as the As with many underground artists, Roberta says of her passion for the art. “Key West used Little Room Jazz you will have to check the local music “I liked to practice.” to have more Club, Virgilio’s calendar listings to see where Mark Mark, on the other hand, was mainly jazz and cabaret. and Blue Heaven. is playing next. As for Roberta, if you inspired by his mother. There were a lot Roberta’s want to see her set, then you’ll either “She was a big influence on me,” of 10-piece horn- piano sets are have to get lucky with one of her guest Mark says. “I picked sax for many rea- driven bands a little bit more appearances or book a room at the sons, but one of them was because my back in the day,” exclusive and can Curry Mansion. There should be plenty mom played sax.” Mark explains. “I only be enjoyed of time to find them since they have no Mark and Roberta enjoy traveling don’t like to look by guests of the plans to leave Key West. together. They moved to Mexico City at jazz as a set genre. I look at it as historic Amsterdam’s Curry Mansion Before we part ways, Mark leaves a for a year in 1991 and continued teach- being music. Some people, when they Inn on Caroline Street during its com- few final words that, like head jazz, are ing. He taught band and orchestra and think of jazz associate it with Charlie plimentary happy hour. However, she worth thinking about. she taught vocals, After that, they head- Parker and Chet Baker, and on the other has been known to do the occasional “The main thing I can say is that I ed to Miami, where he pursued a mas- side there’re bands like Snarky Puppy. duet with her husband. The two are also hope people understand that there is a ter’s degree in studio jazz performance I have to remember one of my favorite working on a collaborative album with a rich tradition of music in Key West. I and she pursued one in keyboard and memories of when we were in Italy, blend of classical, jazz and pop hits. hope that they support what will make chamber music. It was at this time that and a tour guide from Liverpool, with a “Mark has had an influence in the jazz a more vibrant community.” ■ the couple started taking short trips to funky green Volkswagen bus, said to me, world on me,” Roberta tells me.
br(eakfast) + (d)inner = brinner from 2pm - 10pm on New Year’s Eve! COMEDYCOMEDY KEYKEY WESTWEST EVERY THURSDAY & FRIDAY @ THE BOTTLECAP’S BLUE ROOM DDQUĝDO>ĝľZĝùÿõòO=ĝĝþĝĝU&DjĝľZĝúÿõòO= óóôúĝU)=D>ZD>ĝUZQZĝ
Key West’s ONLY weekly stand up comedy show at the southernmost comedy venue in the US with the BEST stand up comics from all over the world, from rising stars to household names. Carmen Morales has a captivating style which CARMEN MORALES AND GARY PETERSEN incorporates who will perform with local Key West opinionated comedians at the quick wit and outlandish Downward Dog Comedy Showcase characters. at the Bottlecap’s Blue Room on: Taking from family, friends, and people from everyday encounters she transforms into these characters seamlessly. THURSDAY FRIDAY Gary Petersen is on the horizon of a December 28th December 29th new comedy frontier. Named 2016 Best 8:00pm 8:00pm Comedian by Boston Magazine, this absurd realist takes his curiosity and DDQUĝDO>ĝľZĝùÿõòO=ĝĝþĝĝU&DjĝľZĝúÿõòO= applies it to the wide world of weird. TICKETS $15 WWW.COMEDYKEYWEST.COM Check out our Special NYE Menu at www.mattsstockisland.com Every Monday at Mary Ellen’s Bar on Applerouth Lane ONE CRAZY NIGHT & DRUNKEN SPELLING BEES Comedy Key West hosts various comedy shows from Drunken Spelling Bees to a show we like to call ONE CRAZY NIGHT, which involves standup, storytelling, games and music! @ The Perry Hotel • 7001 Shrimp Rd. • Key West, FL 33040 • Tel: 305.296.1717 A18 WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST KEY WEST GALLERY GUIDE
For a comprehensive guide and map to Key West’s finest art galleries, visit www.keysarts.com/artist_connections/ gallery_guide.pdf. SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK SALT Gallery 830 Fleming St.
Captain Karen Lukni- Mystical Entities Ongoing through December
The Key West Gallery Tennessee Williams, 601 Duval St. The Playwright and Painter Bill Mack Ongoing Dec. 28, 7 - 10 p.m. www.Kwahs.org ■ Dec. 29 and 30, noon - 2 p.m. and 7 - 11 p.m. Dec. 31, Noon - 2 p.m. and 7 - 10 p.m. www.keywestgallery.com 305-292-9339
Key West Art and Historical COURTESY Society PHOTOS Custom House Museum Works by Bill Mack 281 Front St. will be on display at The Key West The Navy in Key West Gallery Dec. 28 - 31. Ongoing
Key West Manta Rays by Key West Jeweler, John Buzogany Hand Carved Gemstone Pendants and Earrings Available in 14 Karat Gold and Sterling Silver 606 GREENE STREET - KEY WEST, FLORIDA, USA 305.294.1669 | FAX 305.294.7747 [email protected] | www.galleryongreene.comene.com FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A19 KEY WEST GALLERY GUIDE
COURTESY PHOTOS Sculptures from Captain Karen Luknis’ “Mystic Entities” collection will be on display at SALT Gallery through the end of December.
ENJOY AN ECLECTIC FUSION OF TRADITIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL CUISINE OVERLOOKING DUVAL STREET.
YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME THIS HOLIDAY!
HAPPY HOUR - 5PM TO 7PM HALF OFF APPETIZERS, BEER, WINE AND COCKTAILS! Speciality Martini’s: Espresso Martini Ř Key Lime Martini Ř Lychee Martini 314 Duval Street • Key West • 305.292.4740 www.grandcafekeywest.com A20 WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST CUISINE
JENNIFER WHITE / FLORIDA WEEKLY Sinz owner Joshua Eli Pancamo-Mitchell with wife Kenna, left and employee Kelly Jane, right. Sinz Burritos: Sin with a healthy dose of love
BY JENNIFER WHITE of Truman and Duval streets. Florida Weekly Correspondent “Garbo’s was work. This is my dream,” he proudly admits. When I sat down to talk with Gar- At Sinz Burritos, the dream looks like bo’s Grill owner Joshua Eli Pancamo- an artist’s studio warehouse, or an old Mitchell (Eli to his friends), he and his car shop with entire walls of eclecti- wife, Kenna, had just opened their new cally bold murals. Patrons can sit along venture, Sinz Burritos, a couple of days high tops that face out onto one of the before. His excitement was undeniably biggest intersections of Old Town, or contagious. His eyes were wide, his eye- simply stop in for a quick take-out order. brows raised and he couldn’t stop smil- Patrons can choose from burritos ing the whole time he talked. I thought and bowls with a variety of toppings to myself, this is a man caught up in the such as grilled green onions and pickled moment when everything he’d worked radishes, and a choice of char-grilled toward was coming to fruition. roja chicken, slow-cooked beef barba- “I can still remember the day at La Te coa, pork carnitas and carne asada skirt Da sometime in the late 2000s,” he say. steak. Everything is painstakingly pre- “I was having dinner with a friend and pared in house from the mild chipotle told him, “I would love to have my own cream to the hot-grilled pineapple salsa burrito shop based on the seven sins.” with serrano peppers, to the homemade This dream began when Eli was stil horchata, a cinnamon-vanilla rice drink a humble service professional that is a Mexican classic. And all and it followed him to the the while, everything is still youth hostels he once man- meant to be fast food, but aged. In an effort to make on a “higher scale and at a friends, he learned to good price point.” make award-winning If you order the pork, pico de gallo. It took it’s a meal that could him across the country take you just a few min- to places such as the utes to devour may have Mission District in San been started three days Francisco. There, he dis- ago. Somehow, I managed covered the appeal of fast to get Eli to fill me in about and fresh California-style din- this otherwise highly secretive ing and started the research to create recipe. his own version. “First, we season the pork with a mix “We’ll always be fine-tuning and get- of spices like chili powder, cumin and ting better,” he promises. “I will not just oregano and then we let it sit for 48 let it be.” hours,” Eli said. “Then we sear it and After being rated number 1 on Trip- season it some more with pureed garlic, Advisor, and landing a feature on Guy jalapeños and orange juice, top it with Fieri’s TV show “Diners, Drive-Ins and fresh cut oranges and onions and then Dives,” Eli and Kenna’s first venture, the slow cook it for another five hours.” Airstream-turned-food-truck Garbo’s The feedback from the customers Grill, might be the more famous older has been overwhelming. Sinz has been sibling, but the goal was, and always has busy since it opened its doors and, even been, to open up Sinz Burritos. Sinz is though Eli claims that “curiosity created located next to another newcomer in a buzz,” the reviews clearly say it must the culinary scene, the House of Wu, be doing something right. home to Chinese style dumplings along There was definitely a lot of hype with Munchbox sandwiches, it com- before the official silent opening. The pletes a trio of restaurants at the corner space sat idle for awhile with its win- FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 A21 KEY WEST CUISINE dows covered in craft paper and nothing they don’t rush into anything. There are but the name exposed. Everyone knew plans to add a selection of seven pressed that there would be a new restaurant and bottled Virt-juices and margaritas going in, but only a few knew what it on tap. Along with the tacos, it’s some- would be. During that time, a slew of thing that Eli tells me will happen when artists was transported to Key West the time is right. At the moment though, to add their own aesthetic touch to the most important thing is that people the décor, including local photographer are enjoying what they are doing right Tom Flip and Los Angeles native Sean now. Sullivan. Sullivan was just recently part “I want people to get what I’m put- of an exhibit that featured street artists ting down here because there’s a lot of from around the world on the 69th floor love,” Eli points out. “We are driven by of the World Trade Center buildings in what our customers want. We want to New York City. In the end, 17 unique and feed everyone sin with a healthy dose progressive artists will have left their of love.” mark on the walls of Sinz Burritos. Follow the Sinz Burritos Facebook The menu is uncomplicated although site for its current hours of operation, or tacos and other items may be added in visit at 500 Truman St., Unit 1. ■ the future. It is important to Eli that
JENNIFER WHITE / FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST FLORIDA WEEKLY REAL ESTATE
A22 | WWW.FLORIDAWEEKLY.COM WEEK OF DEC. 28, 2017-JAN. 3, 2018 Abundance in Old Town 311 Elizabeth St. $3,950,000
This grand eight-bedroom, five- covered porches border the front bathroom historic home, with a and back of the home, providing guesthouse, underwent a full reno- incredible views of historic Old vation in 2015 to create a uniquely Town and the lush topical landscap- designed floor plan offering endless ing surrounding the heated pool. possibilities. This luxury Old Town The detached guest cottage offers an compound provides a unique invest- additional private space, also with a ment opportunity with two tran- full kitchen, living room, one bed- sient and one non-transient rental room, spacious loft and a covered licenses, currently being managed as porch overlooking the pool area. a full-time vacation rental business No details were spared in this with over $150,000 of bookings to luxury renovation boasting a unique convey and growing each day. combination of income potential The main house expands to three coupled with the ability to host an stories, each with full kitchens and abundance of guests in self-sustain- living rooms and can be locked ing private accommodations. It’s an out by floor with one central stair- irresistible endeavor. case for total privacy, or opened up completely for a large but intimate Contact: crowd. Find luxury at each level Wendy Zintsmaster with stainless appliances, designer Truman and Company Real décor and furnishings, large win- Estate dows, French doors and two sets Office : 305-292-2244, ext. 121 of washers and dryers. Expansive Mobile : 305-923-5935
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