By John Hayden
Brunch along Wilton Drive has a fresh vibe. A fresh rotation of entertainers and a fresh spicy menu are the reasons. Saturday brunch at Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar is an ever-changing entertainment buffet.
Combining the restaurant’s award-winning food and reputation for hosting Wilton Manors’ top talent has created another must-see event on The Drive. “People enjoy brunch and they want performances,” manager Michael Vinci told OutClique. “It helps for something entertaining to be happening in the afternoon.”
The time has been moved to 2pm or 4pm, depending on which entertainers are booked. Guests who are out past 11pm on Friday seem to appreciate not having to be back by 11am on Saturday.
Wilton All-Stars
The entertainment is a lineup of area favorites that each have extremely loyal fanbases. Jennifer McClain can be seen solo and with Miss Bouvèé in their Boozy Belters act. Other rotating performers include Brian Mason, and power couple Tony & Gloria.
“It’s early. It’s like they’re at happy hour,” Gloria told OutClique. “They come in at two, have their drinks, enjoy the show, and go home.”
Each week has a theme, which can focus on a decade, like the eighties, or a specific place or moment in time. “It’s a chance for them to get out. They do a theme so they can explore musical expressions they are interested in,” Vinci said.
Recently, Tony & Gloria did a Studio 54 theme. Tony says it’s more than music. They strive to put you in the mindset of the infamous club. “There’s a theme. We like to talk a little history. So for Studio 54, we say who owned it, who used to go. There’s a little narrative and it’s fun, like a game show.”
Spicing Things Up
Of course, brunch isn’t brunch without delicious food and something to wash it down. There is a signature cocktail menu and two-for-one drinks. Or, if you know you’re thirsty and you’re going to be there for a while, the bar offers bottomless mimosas, bellinis, and poinsettias.
In addition to brunch staples, like chicken and waffles, owner and renowned chef Johnny Pak is putting a little foreign flavor on the menu. Pork Belly Ramen Noodles, Beef Chow Fun, and Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are unlike other brunch items you’ll find along Wilton Drive.
