Just a hoot and a holler from the Strip is the world's first Hooters Casino Hotel. I've watched this prime hotel location (one block from the Strip) as it evolved from a Howard Johnson to The Treasury, Pacifica and San Rémo.
This new incarnation promises to be a winner. Its genesis came about in 1983 when six male friends conjured up the wildly successful Hooters international restaurant chain. It was in the cards that the guys would become hotel-casino owners.
Reasonably priced rooms and restaurants, those famous wings and entertainment are packing in the Hooters fans.
At the top of the list is Dan Marino's Fine Food and Spirits. Marino is, of course, the legendary Miami Dolphins quarterback. And, as the menu indicates, he loves to eat.
Dan Marino's offers a plethora of choices including light fare for waist-watchers, Dan's Specialities and hand-cut steaks aged for 21 days or more -- all from grain-fed cattle. Mile High meatloaf on Texas toast is topped with garlic smashed potatoes, mushroom gravy and onion crisps. The Marino burger on a potato bun is touted as being "one of the best burgers you will ever have."
I'm a believer.
I like informal menus that offer a range of comestibles from soup to a South Miami seasonal platter with the chef's selection of perfect sharing items. Selection and prices change daily.
Included among the desserts are strawberry shortcake, hot fudge lava cake, a Tollhouse cookie sundae and the house signature Almond Basket -- baked almond brittle folded into a basket filled with raspberry sorbet and seasonal fresh berries.
Speciality drinks and a small wine list are offered. Try a Quarterback Colada in a coconut flake-rimmed glass with Malibu rum, the house colada mix and a sidekick of Midori or the Jollytini -- Stoli vodka infused with a wild mix of flavors. Both are terrific companions to the appetizers.
Hooters Florida casual restaurant décor includes tin ceilings and cedar wood throughout the complex.