This past Wednesday night ("Humpday Night") our dancing shoes were in full force with loosened inhibitions, because a trip to "Mickey's Downtown" in Fort Lauderdale, Florida turned into a Night for the Ages! This legendary landmark restaurant, a stone's throw from the iconic Ft. Lauderdale Beach, was pulsating with the infectious energy of Donna Shelley and "The Rhythm Chicks!" This is Where the Magic Started! "The Rhythm Chicks," led by the creator Donna Shelley, launched into a hit parade of our favorite musical memories. These talented vocalists aren't content to stay on stage as they weave their way through a web of vibrant entertainment among the dinner tables, their infectious energy drawing you into their performance. Soon, the restaurant audience is filled with the joyful dance of diners young and old, all swept up in a whirlwind of "irresistible chick rhythm!" The toe-tapping melodies and the sheer joy radiating from "The Rhythm Chicks" becomes apparent as they prance and dance between the tables, their theatrical flair igniting a spark in the audience. Dinner plates take a backseat as diners, swept up in this whirlwind of energy, throw their arms up in the air and surrender to "the chicks" irresistible vib! But "Mickey's Downtown" isn't just about the show – it's about a full sensory experience. As we swayed to the music, you can't help but take a moment to savor the culinary delights crafted by the restaurant's talented chefs which was undeniable. And as we settled into our seats, the aroma of Mickey's Downtown's famed Mediterranean fare tantalized our senses that served as the fuel for this energetic evening! Mickey's Downtown's menu was a symphony of flavors inspired by the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Plates laden with glistening olives, creamy hummus, and vibrant salads drizzled with tangy dressings. Fresh seafood brought in daily takes center stage, grilled to succulent perfection or baked in a flavorful casserole. For the meat lovers, there might be rosemary-infused lamb chops or a juicy skewer of chargrilled chicken. Plates overflowing with succulent grilled lamb skewers, marinated in a symphony of herbs and spices are mouth-watering. Plump, kalamata olives bathed in olive oil, glistening with ruby red fire. Not to forget the creamy hummus, flecked with vibrant green herbs and served with warm pita bread, perfect for scooping up every delicious morsel. Mickey's Downtown's cocktail menu boasts a dazzling array of libations sure to tantalize your taste buds. Sip on a refreshing Aperol spritz, its vibrant orange hue mirroring the Florida Sunset. For something a bit more herbal, explore the depths of a gin and tonic infused with the essence of rosemary. Or, perhaps you're in the mood for a classic – a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc will perfectly complement the bright flavors of the Mediterranean dishes. Ask Susan Velieri, our local wine connisuer who consumes all. On the next visit, be sure to ask for bartender "Alison" who is a phenomenal cocktail mixer & server! And as the friendly wait staff glides through the restaurant, ensuring every diner has everything they need, a touch of serendipity unfolds. Restaurant owner Mickey himself extends a warm welcome to photographer Bobby(me), who's there to capture the magic of "The Rhythm Chicks' performance" and promote their talent World-Wide with over 300 Youtube Videos on Google's World Platform I've created. And as it turns out, restaurant owner Mickey has a deep well of memories connected to this very night. My chance encounter with owner Mickey reveals that my lifelong friend, Dr. Ronald Robbins (Ronald Robbins) – known to his close circle of friends as "Doc Robbins"(or simply "Ron" to his very closest friends) – used to be a patron at Mickey's former restaurant location way back in Hamden, Connecticut! With my quick phone call to "Doc Robbins," the evening takes on a Whole New Dimension!!! Mickey and Doc reminisce over my phone, their voices shining with shared memories. Mickey extends a heartfelt invitation for "Doc" to visit his new bistro location in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and rekindle their friendship memories over a "Feast Fit For A King" – or should I say, "A King of Good Times!" This wasn't just a night of entertainment at "Mickey's Downtown" – it was a tapestry woven with the threads of music, dance, food, laughter, and the serendipitous reunion of old friends! It's a night that will be etched in our memories, a testament to the power of good food, great company, and the timeless tunes that bring us all together. So, raise your glass, put on your dancing shoes, and let the magic of "Mickey's Downtown" wash over you with "The Rhythm Chicks" on your next visit when they perform! 👍🤩👍🍷🍝🍩🍪🎼🍰🍭🎹🥂🍾🥁🤸🏻‍♀️💃🏻🕺🏻💖🍹🎼🍭🤸🏻‍♀️