On a recent road trip to Miami, I discovered a shopping and entertainment oasis just two miles east of Interstate 95 in Hallandale Beach, Florida.

The Village of Gulfstream Park is a truly unique retail complex offering an eclectic mix of designer boutiques, upscale home stores, restaurants, cafes, and bars. But the destination’s claim to fame is the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack and Casino. Since 1939, Gulfstream Park has been a celebrated icon in racing history. The track has been the home and training ground for the foremost Triple Crown prep races including the coveted million dollar Florida Derby. In 2006, Gulfstream Park completed a $175 million dollar renovation to include the expansion of its notorious casino (the first in Broward County) now featuring 850 Vegas-style slot machines, state-of-the-art electronic blackjack games, and 20 live action poker tables. And, as with any top track, expect VIP treatment …from the service to the cuisine.

Thoroughbred Racing kicks off for the Season in early December.

Don’t miss the action – the last race of the season is scheduled for April 8, 2012.

 

Location:  The Village of Gulfstream Park – South Florida

901 S. Federal Highway (US 1)

Hallandale Beach, Florida

954-378-0900

Divas don’t miss this divine destination- a rare find that is big on good food, great fashion and playful distraction!

Make no mistake… The Village of Gulfstream Park is one shopping mecca that was intentionally designed to engage and entertain the masses.

And so, a thank you prayer is in order! WHERE can you leave your hubby, boyfriend or any testosterone charged male for hours while you shop guiltless and worry-free!

All the more reason to make a stop at The Village at Gulfstream Park during your next visit to South Florida.

Still not convinced? Check out just a few of Tango Diva’s Top Picks for some extra MoJo Motivation:

  • Lilly McKay – a boutique featuring cutting-edge European designs at incredible savings.
  • Skemo Shoes & Bags – a beloved brand around the globe. Sexy sandals featuring natural colors and textures with a touch of Glam!
  • Brio Tuscan Grille – Don’t miss the weekly specials! The Tuscan Taster Bar Menu ($2.95) offered Monday to Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. is the best excuse to engage in some much needed retail therapy.
  • Full Bodied Wine & Spa – Enjoy an intoxicating experience with the essence of wine…inside and out.

Spotlight: “La Dolce Vita” Dining

The Village at Gulfstream Park offers a plethora of dining options. But Brio Tuscan Grille brings in a homerun in terms of the overall experience. The ambiance is warm and inviting. The menu is diverse and delicious. Foodies will not be disappointed on any level. Yes…this is technically a chain restaurant but Brio Tuscan Grille is all about authenticity. For me, the dining experience was nostalgic; many of the entrees were reminscent of my Italian father’s old world family recipes. The menu is a culinary masterpiece at an affordable price point. House specialties range from seafood to steak. The Grilled Shrimp and Orzo served with grilled asparagus, zucchini and tomatoes would make even true Southerners salivate. But it is Brio’s grilled and meat dishes like the juicy Roasted Lamb Chops (a full rack grilled to order) and the Tournedos Di Manzo (two 4 oz filets served with Romano crusted tomatoes and Hollandaise) that raises the bar.

“To eat well, is to live well” – the Brio Tuscan Grille’s core philosophy is celebrated in every meal served!

Visit Brio Tuscan Grille’s website to get a sneak peak of their extensive menu and learn more about weekly specials.

To plan you next visit to The Village at Gulfstream Park, be sure to visit the official website for hours and directions or call 954-378-0900.

Mark your Calendar for a fabulous Village at Gulfstream Park Holiday Event:

Symphony in Lights, a dazzling light and music extravaganza, kicks off this weekend (Nov12) and runs through end of the year. Over 250,000 lights affixed to three giant Christmas trees sparkle and dance to the sounds of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Visit The Village at Gulfstream Park online, to learn more about this one-of-a-kind holiday show.

Special Shop America Tour Packages – for only $38 USD per person

A $60++ Value!

The “Shop, Eat & Play!” package at Gulfstream Park offers a $25.00 Village at Gulfstream Park Rewards Card, a $5.00 Gulfstream Park Tote Bag filled with discounts at many of your favorite retailers and restaurants, signature logo gifts and free Casino play offers!

Are you an American Express cardholder?  If so…A VIP Welcome is Waiting.
Show your card at Guest Services Office located in Champions Plaza and receive an exclusive ‘VIP Welcome Packet’. Inside you’ll find a Passport to Savings with special offers from various Village shops and restaurants, a souvenir gift, free casino play card and more!

Photo Images courtesy of Brio Tuscan Grille and the Village at Gulfstream Park Management Office.