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The countdown is over! Broward County’s most anticipated new restaurant and bar, Dear Olivia Bar & Kitchen, is now open, bringing casually chic dining and craft cocktails to the heart of Parkland. The concept is the newest jewel in the crown of P Hospitality Management, led by hospitality veterans and owners Eddie and Christina Pozzuoli, and Paul Greenberg — best known as the co-founder of the beloved American Social.
Located at 7805 North University Drive, Dear Olivia is named after Paul’s nine-year-old daughter and like its charismatic namesake, Dear Olivia delivers a sense of play and joy. From the décor to the drinks, the energy is fun, fabulous, and a little cheeky — just like Olivia herself. In fact, when asked what she wants people to know about the restaurant, Olivia herself said, “I like them to come to my restaurant, and I like to see people smile.”
“We’re excited to bring a new and unique concept to Parkland that focuses on having fun as much as it does on great food and cocktails,” says Greenberg. “Whether it’s unwinding with drinks for Happy Hour, watching games on one of our many TVs, enjoying a great dinner with friends or family, or even a quick bite with the kids after a soccer game, there is something for everyone.” Greenberg, best known as the co-founder of American Social, brings three decades of experience developing buzzy, high-volume restaurants that appeal to locals and visitors alike. Dear Olivia is his most personal project yet – an approachable-yet-polished space where guests feel welcome whether they’re rocking heels or sneakers. Yes, there are numerous TVs but no, it’s not a sports bar. “We knew we had big shoes to fill taking over the former Déjà Blue space – it really meant something to the community,” adds Eddie and Christina Pozzuoli, the husband and wife team behind beloved South Florida staples like Corvina Seafood Grill, Prezzo, and Eddie & Vinny’s. “But we’re so excited to blow people away with something fresh and fun that we truly believe Parkland has been waiting for.”
The menu is packed with bold, craveable dishes and playful twists. Starter and Shareable highlights include South of the Border Tortilla Soup, Korean-Style Steak Tips, Guacamole & Chips, Mushroom & Black Truffle Flatbread, Reuben Egg Rolls, and Coconut Shrimp. Sandwiches and Handhelds shine with picks like the Double Smash Cheeseburger, OG Spicy Chicken Sandwich, and Smoked Brisket “Poor Boy”. Standout Entrées include Crispy Beer-Battered Fish & Chips, Shrimp & Grits – with cheesy grit cake, black pepper bacon, and sherry Creole cream, Chicken Riggies, Char Siu Pork Chops, and Beef Tenderloin Medallions. Globally inspired Bowls and Salads – like the Ahi Tuna Poke & Rice Noodle Bowl, Chopped Antipasto, and Black & Blue Wedge – round out the menu. And of course Olivia has her own Signature Favorites: Fresh Baked Mini Buttermilk Biscuits with Pimento Cheese, butter and honey; Cast Iron Baked Brie with fig jam, toasted walnuts and grilled ciabatta bread; and a signature dish that works great as an appetizer or a main course: the Chicken Tender Combo Board, consisting of a basket of handbreaded chicken tenders served with French fries and a trio of dipping sauces. The cheeky “Adult Happy Meal,” complete with a petite Caesar salad, boardwalk fries, and a martini is sure to become a fan favorite.
Guests can also enjoy specialty sips with Dear Olivia’s killer beverage program, under the direction of Jose Gill, who spent 13 years helming the cocktail program at American Social. The menu features trend-forward cocktails, approachable wines, and a curated selection of local brews. Specialty cocktail highlights include Mucho Macho Mango: Tanteo Habanero, Chinola Mango, fresh mango puree and lime; Garden of Eve: Patron Cristalino, Mezcal, pressed ginger juice, agave, cucumber, mint, and lime juice; and Blood and Honey: Hendricks, honey syrup, blood orange liqueur, lemon juice, and Rockey’s Botanical.
The restaurant’s expansive interior comfortably seats 82 guests in the main dining room. At its heart is a glam green-tiled indoor/outdoor bar, offering 19 seats inside and 17 seats on the adjacent patio. The al fresco deck, featuring a lovely view of the adjacent lagoon and fountain, accommodates up to 90 guests and features plenty of room for private and corporate events. The design reflects Olivia’s playful spirit through a vibrant palette of soft greens, aquas, blush corals, and creamy neutrals, elevated by textured finishes, cozy banquettes, and charming details that bring joy to every corner. Inside, layered lighting, acoustic accents, and strategically placed TVs keep the energy lively without overwhelming the atmosphere. Outside, twinkle-lit cabanas, lush greenery, and waterfront tables create a relaxed escape perfect for brunching, sipping, and celebrating.
Lively programming throughout the week include Daily Specials, beginning with $10 Cheeseburgers on Mondays, Happy Hour on Mondays through Fridays from 3PM to 6PM, and Olivia After Dark on Fridays from 9PM until close – featuring a high-energy lounge vibe with bottle specials, DJs, specialty shots, and table reservations. Of course, Dear Olivia will host a fabulous Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30AM to 2:30PM – launching later in the month. Additional daily programming will be revealed soon.
Dear Olivia is open Monday through Thursday, 11:30AM to 11PM; Friday and Saturday 11:30AM to midnight; Sundays until 10PM. Dear Olivia is located at 7805 North University Drive, #100 in Parkland, Florida. For more information, follow @dearoliviabarandkitchen on social media or visit www.dearoliviaparkland.com. Telephone (954) 345-0128.
