Save the date: Hollywood

From Argentine steak to Belgian beer, you and your sweetie will feel a world away in Hollywood.

ArtsPark at Young Circle. Photo: Eileen Soler.

Member rating: 4

By Aurora Rodríguez

Last month you met someone with potential, but that "off the beaten path" dive bar he/she insisted on going to on SoBe had you shelling out 10 bucks for a Delirium Tremens. Combined with way overpriced parking and pre-drink sushi, your next date should have you singing hooray for Hollywood.

Yes: it is possible to have a good time north of land of skimpy tops and south of college-crowd favorite Fort Lauderdale. So stuff your pockets with a fistful of quarters for parking and don your most comfortable jeans for an outing that will keep you both entertained all day.

First, head to Young Circle and take a stroll hand in hand at ArtsPark at Young Circle (1800 Hollywood Blvd at US 1; 954-921-3404; artsparkatyoungcircle.org). Not only will it remind you why you chose to live in Florida in the first place as you bask in the sunshine, but it'll help you get in touch with your shared love of art as you marvel at water fountains, sculptures and a unique musical tree with chimes that go in tune with the breeze. Inspired to create some of your own? Sign up for a glass blowing studio with local artists Butch Schmidt and Drew Cobb.

If all that creativity left you thirsty, stroll over to Vino Hollywood (1910 Harrison St; 954-929-8686), where sampling from the dispensing machines is encouraged and the vibe is relaxed. Buy a card and get an ounce or a glass of wine and catch up while you plan on what where to grab dinner.

Beefeater Steakhouse (1902 Hollywood Blvd; 954-920-4450) is an Argentine spot that should be famous just for the size of their juicy churrasco steaks, which are best drizzled with the spot's signature chimichurri sauce. Order up a bottle or glass of Malbec from their reasonably priced list and get ready for good food and even better conversation once the vino kicks in. What was the name of the waiter again?

It's time for a rich chocolate cake and steaming cortadito at Chocolada Bakery & Café (1923 Hollywood Blvd; 954-920-6400) -- you'll that caffeine-induced energy, because once your date sees PRL Euro Café (1904 Hollywood Blvd; 954-922-9775) across the street, he/she will want to check out the more than 25 Belgian brews on the menu, along with the art hanging on the walls, which is all for sale. So take a picture to hang on the nook's wall to show that you've been there and loved it as you toast with a Polish Zywiec and Three Philosophers... the perfect way to celebrate a great date in Hollywood. Salud.

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Published: 5/08