Steelpan, Fort Lauderdale’s highly anticipated new Caribbean-American fusion kitchen and bar, opened its doors yesterday with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony. More than 30 attendees — including Commissioner Glassman, Commissioner Fisher and several attendees from the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau — joined in the festivities, getting a firsthand look at the venue’s fresh beachfront design and unique indoor/outdoor space. Nestled on the corner of Sunrise Blvd and A1A within Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach, Steelpan seats 115 guests and serves an all-day menu celebrating the multi-cultural island flavors of South Florida.
“This is a very exciting moment for the entire Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach team — one we have truly put our hearts into and worked so hard for,” said Eduardo Fernandez, general manager of Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach. “From Chef Kevin Baker’s menu to Steelpan’s thoughtful design, and the exciting entertainment offerings we’ll be introducing, we are thrilled with the result of many months of hard work by our team, and we can’t wait to have guests experience this restaurant.”
With small bites inspired by the new menu served alongside signature cocktails, community leaders and media were invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony before touring the brand-new restaurant, which boasts a sea-inspired color palette accented with nautical fixtures, and is easily accessible from both the street and hotel lobby.
Dishing out a menu influenced by the multicultural island flavors of South Florida, Steelpan is now serving breakfast daily from 6:30 to 11 a.m., along with an all-day menu served from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Menu items include fresh twists on regional treasures ranging from Caribbean Jerk Chicken and Coconut Shell Ceviche (pictured left) to Guava Braised Short Ribs and a Whole Baked Snapper. Chef Kevin Baker will integrate authentic local techniques, regional ingredients and innovative pairings cultivated through his Caribbean and European travels to deliver a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
A fresh take on Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach’s popular Cocktail of the Month program, Steelpan will continue to elevate the Fort Lauderdale cocktail scene with a daily happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m., offering discounted beer and wine by the glass, as well as signature sips like the Dream Maker, Coco Loco, Steel Punch and Blue Lagoon (pictured right). Steelpan will host Steelpan Crazy Days, with a $6 all-day “Daily Rehab” menu, boasting a signature drink each day of the week. The menu is offered to visitors at Steelpan’s bar and restaurant, as well as by the pool, and includes:
* Monday: Rum Therapy — Dark rum, pineapple and orange juice with cream of coconut
* Tuesday: Bellini Moonshiners — Prosecco, moonshine, mango, fresh mint and lime juice
* Wednesday: Island Sangria — Red wine, tropical fruits and a splash of rum
* Thursday: Toasted Frozen Coconut Mojito — Blanco rum, coconut milk, fresh milk and lime juice
* Friday: Sky Juice — Gin, coconut water and condensed milk
* Saturday: Frosé — Slushy rosé wine and berry puree
* Sunday: Pineapple Ginger Prosecco — Prosecco, pineapple puree, cilantro and a splash of tequila
For more information on Steelpan or to make a reservation, visit www.SteelpanFTL.com or call 1.954.302.5252. To stay in the loop on Steelpan’s latest news, follow the restaurant on Instagram @SteelpanFTL.
About Steelpan
Steelpan is a unique Caribbean-American concept inspired by the multi-cultural island flavors of South Florida. Located within Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach, Steelpan evolves into a vibrant and interactive gathering place as the day and menu turn. Open throughout the day for breakfast, lunch, “snack time” and dinner, the menu reflects the regional treasures of salty fishermen and rum runners. The celebration of the region’s cuisine and culture extends to Steelpan’s drink menu, boasting eclectic and innovative tropical cocktails alongside an extensive wine list.
About Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach
Recipient of TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach features 240 guest rooms including 23 spectacular suites, boasting panoramic views of the seven-mile stretch of Fort Lauderdale Beach or the Intracoastal Waterway. Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach provides a new level of hospitality to the Fort Lauderdale market by offering travelers a sense of place, not just a place to stay. Catering to both business and leisure travelers, the hotel is centrally located on the corner of Sunrise Boulevard and A1A, only 8 miles from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and just minutes from the Las Olas Arts & Entertainment District and Port Everglades. Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach offers an authentic, local experience to guests and locals alike, brought to life through the brand’s signature Food is Art, Liquid Art and Daily Delights programs.
