There are some signs that the economy is starting to thaw.  Finally!  Some hot chains are planning some new restaurants in Ft. Lauderdale.  Some are completely new to our area and should bring in the crowds.  Here are some to be on the lookout for:

J. Mark's.  This is the owners second location (the first being in Pompano).  The restaurant is located on US1 between Oakland Park Blvd and Sunrise.  This location used to be a Bennigans and you would never know it now.  They did a compete renovation inside and out.  They had their 'soft opening' 3 days ago and we stopped in for lunch today.  GREAT food and awesome service.  Everything from salads, sandwiches and steaks.  Similar menu to J. Alexanders...but this place has better prices and I think the food is better as well.  The outdoor patio will be done soon and they will have live bands on the weekends and happy hour specials 7 days a week.


Rocco's Tacos and Tequila Bar.  With restaurants in West Palm Beach...this unique Mexican eatery and bar is arriving in the Fall on Las Olas Blvd.  (In the former Smith & Jones restaurant...it just closed a few weeks ago).  Fresh guacamole is made 'table side' and you can try to choose one of the 225 tequila's they have on hand.  This is sure to be a hot spot on Las Olas.


Chipotle.  Yeah...I know.  There are Chipotle's all over the place...but there are none in East Ft. Lauderdale.  This location is going to be where the old Lone Star Steak place was on US1...by the old Linens-N-Things...between Oakland Park Blvd and Sunrise. 


Pei Wei Asian Diner.  This is kind of a new chain restaurant with some South Florida locations in Palm Beach County.  This will be the first one in Eastern Broward.  It's going to be located right where the new Chipolte is going.  They are actually the 'faster version' of their sister restaurant 'P.F. Changs'.  This chain is more of a 'Fast Casual' type with fresh ingredients that should bring Chinese take-out to a whole new level.