I was driving down Commercial Blvd in Fort Lauderdale tonight and was headed for a frozen custard stand when I saw a 5 foot tall statue of what appeared to be “Madam”-you know, the puppet from the 70s-the old woman with a feather boa-I think she was made to look like Phyllis Diller. I actually turned the car around to see the statue and found that it was dressed as a waitress (a cigarette hanging out of her mouth!) and was placed in front of the Art & Design Cafe. It said on the window that it was a restaurant and wine bar. I decided to see if they had desserts and sit at one of their outdoor tables.

I walked inside and saw the MOST eclectic decorations and furniture in any place I had ever been into! Each table was surrounded by sheer curtains and artwork was on every inch of wall space. There was a mannequin in the middle all dolled up and the furniture was painted to the hilt. There was so much to look at and take in!

A very friendly guy greeted me and I told him I was just here for dessert and I wanted to sit outside. The waitress was extremely friendly and the strawberry cheesecake was divine.

After scarfing down the dessert, the female owner, Ginger, came outside and spoke with me for quite a while about the business and told me that Madame was actually named “Roz”. She welcomed my suggestions and informed me of the wine tastings and events they have on a weekly basis. They have a night that they show a musical and I guess if you want, you could sing along! (tee hee)

If you’re coming to Fort Lauderdale, you should definitely try out this place-but don’t be in a rush-this place is made to take your drink and walk around to look at the artwork while your food is being lovingly prepared. This is a gallery/restaurant!

When you go, tell the waitress that xackphobe.com recommended them!

Here’s the info:
Art & Design Café
(954) 491-1007
Oakland Park/Wilton Manors
2724 E Commercial Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308

I-95 to Commercial Blvd. East. After going through the stoplight on US-1, look for the flags on the right or Roz-you can’t miss her if she’s outside. The window says restaurant and wine bar at the top. If you get to the bridge, you have gone too far!

It says reservations are your best bet, since there is limited seating, so try to call first. Make sure you mention this site!