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Alexis James

A landmark in the state of Florida, Flanigans Seafood Bar and Grill has served its purpose in the South Florida region for decades. Adorned with vivid green lights, rustic/beachy decor and an overall sense of American pride, Flanigans is a fan favorite for many, creating memories and traditions that last a lifetime.

Before Flanigans became the beloved seafood bar and grill, in 1959, founder Joseph “Big Daddy” Flanigan jumpstarted the chain with Big Daddy lounges and liquor stores in Hialeah, where Mr. Flanigan and his son, James Flanigan, opened the first Flanigans Seafood Bar and Grill in Pompano Beach in 1985.

“You can tell definitely that the owners really care about it [Flanigans]. I’ve seen the owners a whole bunch, they visit every single restaurant in Florida all the time,” Flanigans Server Kiara Coll said.

Since then, the family-owned business and community have expanded to 24 different locations, reaching from Pinecrest, Fla., to Boca Raton, Fla..

Now, Flanigans serve as a staple for several occasions: watching a big game, enjoying post-game meals with sports teams, a late-night meal on a Friday night, lunch on a beach day, the perfect comfort food after a night out and so much more. Florida locals have ensured that Flanigans remains a noteworthy place to dine out.

“Usually, after a night out, or even after school my friends and I will go to Flanigans since its in the neighborhood and it’s fun because we watch sports games, there’s the small arcade area and  the atmosphere is just always fun in general,” MPSH Senior Mikey Rusanov said. “The food is also perfect after a night out, it’s like comfort food.”

Not only does the Florida staple keep stomachs full, but it also fills hearts: Flanigans has acted as the meeting place for many Florida couples, so much so that on their Instagram — @flanigansfl — they have posted their love at first sight then and now.

An iconic aspect of Flanigans is their Big Daddy Decorations: temporary tattoos many children in the South Florida area have decorated themselves with, Big Daddy cups most families have somewhere in the cupboard, as well as several pictures of Flanigans’ fishing on the wall, and, of course, the famous portrait of Joseph Flanigan.

There is no denying that Flanigans is iconic for its vibe and community, but it is also noteworthy for its food, particularly its baby back ribs and garlic rolls.

Moreover, the restaurants themselves have game areas where air hockey, driving simulators and claw games keep people (of all ages) entertained.

One of Miami Flanigans’ most popular locations is located in Pinecrest, yet the first was established in Coconut Grove, known as the Loggerhead.

Due to its popularity, Flanigans hosts giveaways and so much more, ensuring they keep the community full of “Flanny” pride that all started with one family’s dream and has continued through familial legacy.

“We just did the Patrick’s day celebration and it was huge– super, super busy. Flanigans did a whole bus thing where they were giving out free merch.  I mean, it’s open every single day of the year, so we do many little things throughout the year,” Coll said.