Janet on the Move

Mapping Meals & Milestones: A Product Manager's Journey Through Food & Life

Virginia Tech Alumni Girls Trip Fort Lauderdale

Four women pose together on the giant Adirondack chair at the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk at night. The colorful chair features blue armrests and a green base with artistic designs. The background showcases waterfront views with illuminated buildings, palm trees, and docked boats reflecting on the water, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Four smiling women take a selfie at a water taxi stop near Blue Moon Fish Company in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The background features a blue drawbridge, waterfront buildings, and a sunny sky reflecting off the water. The group wears sunglasses and casual attire, enjoying a bright day by the Intracoastal Waterway.

You know that feeling when you finally reunite with college friends after months apart, and it feels like no time has passed? That’s exactly what happened when four of us Virginia Tech alums made our long-overdue girls’ trip to Fort Lauderdale this February. What started as a 40th birthday celebration that COVID derailed, turned into the perfect weekend getaway, filled with memories, laughter, and some surprising culinary discoveries.

The Story Behind Our Fort Lauderdale Trip

Sometimes the best trips are the ones you stop over-planning. After months of casual “we should do this” conversations, we finally pulled the trigger in mid-January, booking everything in just a few hours. Originally, five of us were interested, but by the time we booked, it was down to four. That didn’t stop us from securing a fantastic two-room suite at Gallery One Doubletree, which reminded us of our college dorm suites—except this time, it was upgraded, comfortable, and full of modern amenities!

From College Days to Mom Life: A Taste of Nostalgia with New Adventures

As college memories mixed with mom life updates, we couldn’t help but reminisce about our Virginia Tech days. We talked about our favorite spots—like Gumby’s Pizza and their famous Poke Sticks—and shared stories that never seem to get old. One of our best tales? That time Michael Vick borrowed a pencil from Kris in class! Fast forward to today, and our conversations seamlessly blended college humor with stories about our kids, daily vitamins, and the way we’ve traded party days for mushroom coffee and supplements like Metamucil.

Fort Lauderdale: More Than Just a Beach Town

Top Left: "Fort Lauderdale waterways at night with illuminated boat cruising past luxury waterfront condominiums along the Intracoastal Waterway, known as the Venice of America" Top Right: "Dramatic golden sunset over Fort Lauderdale Beach with crashing waves and vibrant orange sky reflecting on the ocean water" Middle Left: "Daytime view of Fort Lauderdale's Intracoastal Waterway with luxury yachts, waterfront condos, and palm trees lining the Venice of America canals" Middle Right: "Fort Lauderdale downtown skyline at night showing illuminated high-rise buildings, palm trees, and urban waterfront development" Bottom Left: "Fort Lauderdale Beach with pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and cargo ships visible on the horizon under clear blue skies" Bottom Right: "Silhouetted royal palm trees against golden sunset sky overlooking Fort Lauderdale waterway, creating a tropical Florida landscape"

Forget the spring break vibes you might remember—Fort Lauderdale is a sophisticated city with a stunning Riverwalk, million-dollar yachts, and top-notch dining. Our hotel was perfectly located: just a 10-minute walk from the beach and five minutes from all the essentials (7-Eleven, Publix, and Starbucks).

Culinary Adventures in Fort Lauderdale

Day One Dining Discoveries:

Top Left: "Shooter's Waterfront restaurant sign in Fort Lauderdale - iconic waterfront dining destination since 1982" Top Middle: "Fresh smoked fish dip platter with crudités at Shooter's Waterfront Fort Lauderdale, featuring fresh vegetables and pita bread" Top Right: "Signature cocktails at Shooter's Waterfront Fort Lauderdale featuring cucumber mojito, tropical drinks, and branded coaster" Middle Left: "Seared ahi tuna salad with avocado, crispy wontons, and sesame seeds at Shooter's Waterfront restaurant Fort Lauderdale" Middle Right: "Grilled salmon with cous couse at Shooter's Waterfront, waterfront dining in Fort Lauderdale" Bottom Left: "Classic fish sandwich and french fries at Shooter's Waterfront Fort Lauderdale - casual waterfront dining" Bottom Middle: "Crispy Cobia fish and chips with tartar sauce at Shooter's Waterfront restaurant in Fort Lauderdale" Bottom Right: "Luxury yacht viewing from Shooter's Waterfront dining patio in Fort Lauderdale, the Yachting Capital of the World"
Top Left: "The Katherine restaurant exterior in Fort Lauderdale with illuminated red neon signage at night - upscale dining destination" Top Middle: "Craft cocktails served at The Katherine Fort Lauderdale, featuring signature drinks on rustic wooden table" Top Right: "House-made crispy french fries in clam chowder at The Katherine restaurant Fort Lauderdale, perfectly golden and seasoned" Middle Left: "Handmade orrechiette pasta dish with parmesan at The Katherine Fort Lauderdale, showcasing fresh Italian-inspired cuisine" Middle Right: "Artisanal bone marrow kale salad at The Katherine Fort Lauderdale, featuring locally sourced ingredients" Bottom Left: "Pan-seared fish in tomato broth at The Katherine restaurant, demonstrating Chef Kathleen Blake's culinary expertise" Bottom Middle: "Hamachi Crudo with sesame and herbs at The Katherine Fort Lauderdale, fine dining presentation" Bottom Right: "Chili roasted tomatoes with fresh herbs at The Katherine, modern American cuisine in Fort Lauderdale"
Friends enjoying cocktails at 1WLO Rooftop bar in Fort Lauderdale, featuring stunning downtown skyline views and blue LED lighting. The scene captures nightlife at Las Olas' premier rooftop destination with illuminated high-rise buildings in the background.
  • Shooters: Our first meal by the waterfront set the tone for the trip, with smoked fish dip and fresh catches like Cobia fish and chips and grouper.
  • The Katherine: An absolute must-visit! We tried dishes like hamachi crudo, chili garlic heirloom tomatoes, clam chowder fries, and Thai red curry branzino (which had an unexpected chocolate mint flavor that took us by surprise). This new restaurant is a gem!
  • Rooftop 1WLO: This rooftop bar offered stunning views and an atmosphere perfect for a mom squad enjoying techno music. We had fun, but the business-professional crowd also made it a great place for conversation.

Food Tour Treasures

Top Left: "Archibald Village Bakery neon sign in Fort Lauderdale, surrounded by lush greenery - stop on local food tour" Top Middle: "Fresh-baked blueberry muffin from Archibald Village Bakery, Fort Lauderdale's artisanal bakery destination" Top Right: "Authentic Mexican taco and craft cocktails at Lalo Tinta restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, featuring colorful presentation" Middle Left: "Historic Casablanca Cafe menu featuring vintage Fort Lauderdale Beach photography, iconic beachfront dining" Middle Center: "Traditional chips and salsa at Lalo Tinta, Fort Lauderdale's modern Mexican restaurant with vibrant decor" Middle Right: "Gourmet taco presentation at Lalo Tinta Fort Lauderdale with fresh garnishes and house-made sauce" Bottom Left: "Eggplant ravioli dish with arugula, chick peas and pine nuts at The Casablanca restaurant Fort Lauderdale, culinary tour highlight" Bottom Middle: "Wild Thyme restaurant's rustic wood decor with moss logo, modern American cuisine in Fort Lauderdale" Bottom Right: "Signature appetizer at Wild Thyme Fort Lauderdale featuring crispy conch fritters and coconut shrimp with citrus sauce" Bottom Center Two: "Craft cocktail presentation at Fort Lauderdale Food Tour, featuring mimosas and brunch drinks"

We took the Craft Food Tour through Viator, and it was a highlight! Our stops included:

  • Lalo Tinta: Don’t miss the Goldilocks salsa, pork carnitas and guava margarita
  • Casablanca Cafe: Try the red pineapple mint sangria and eggplant ravioli.
  • Wild Thyme: The Shady Crush cocktail is the perfect pairing with coconut shrimp and conch fritters.
  • Archibald’s Village Bakery: A cream scone that haunts my dreams and a delicious blueberry muffin make this spot a must.

Other Spots Worth a Visit

While our food tour and fine dining experiences were highlights, Fort Lauderdale offered plenty of other delicious options worth exploring:

Top Left: "The House on the River restaurant signage along Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk - upscale waterfront dining destination" Top Middle: "Fresh baked bread service with butter at The House on the River Fort Lauderdale, showcasing artisanal dining experience" Top Right: "Roasted carrots with citrus glaze and garnish at The House on the River, showcasing modern American cuisine" Middle Left: "Entrance to The House on the River restaurant with classic lantern lighting along Fort Lauderdale's historic Riverwalk" Middle Center: "House-made tortellini in short rib ragu at The House on the River Fort Lauderdale, signature pasta dish" Middle Right: "Fresh tortellini primavera with seasonal vegetables at The House on the River, Fort Lauderdale fine dining" Bottom Left: "Pan-seared fish with roasted tomatoes and fingerling potatoes at The House on the River Fort Lauderdale" Bottom Middle: "Squid ink pasta with seafood at The House on the River, featuring fresh local ingredients along Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk" Bottom Right: "Grilled octopus with colorful vegetables at The House on the River, elevated waterfront dining in Fort Lauderdale"
Top Left: "Famous jerk chicken wings with signature sauce at Aruba Beach Cafe, beachfront dining in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea" Top Middle: "Fresh seafood ceviche with tortilla chips at Aruba Beach Cafe, featuring local catch and tropical flavors" Top Right: "Fish tacos with fresh slaw and chipotle sauce at Aruba Beach Cafe, casual oceanfront dining" Middle Left: "Homemade gazpacho soup at Aruba Beach Cafe, refreshing beachside appetizer in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea" Middle Center: "Fresh-baked bread service with whipped butter at Aruba Beach Cafe, oceanfront restaurant staple" Middle Right: "Fish tacos with house-made sauce at Aruba Beach Cafe, popular beachfront menu item" Middle Far Right: "Coconut shrimp with dipping sauce at Aruba Beach Cafe, signature appetizer with ocean views" Bottom Left: "Fresh raw oysters on ice with classic condiments at Aruba Beach Cafe, featuring Lance crackers and lemon" Bottom Middle: "Tropical Bloody Marys at Aruba Beach Cafe, popular beachfront cocktails in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea" Bottom Right: "Aruba Beach Cafe menu featuring fresh seafood and Caribbean specialties, oceanfront dining"
"A wooden flight tray with four craft beers sits on a table at 26 Degree Brewing in Pompano Beach, alongside a large soft pretzel on a checkered plate." "Close-up of a four-beer flight with various craft brews and a large, golden-brown pretzel with a side of dipping sauce at 26 Degree Brewing Co." "Collage of photos showing beer flights and a giant pretzel at 26 Degree Brewing in Pompano Beach, Florida." "Beer flight and giant pretzel at 26 Degree Brewing in Pompano Beach, FL."
  • The House on the River is a hidden gem in Fort Lauderdale, offering breathtaking riverfront views and an unforgettable menu. If you’re a fan of fresh seafood, don’t miss their octopus and carrots appetizer—a standout dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re visiting for lunch or dinner, this restaurant is a perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed meal while soaking in the beauty of the waterfront. Pro Tip: If you’re in Fort Lauderdale between February 14-23, 2025, be sure to catch Ignite Broward, the city’s annual light and music show. The event, which takes place along the Riverwalk, features stunning illuminations and is a magical way to end your evening.
  • Aruba Beach Cafe: Casual dining at Pompano Beach, great for lunch and dinner options.
  • 26 Degree Brewing Company: A brewery with an evolving menu, perfect for craft beer lovers

Grand Finale at Vitolo

Our final dinner at Vitolo was worth the chaos of rushing to our reservation. Highlights? Gnocchi carbonara that might be the best I’ve ever had and an impressive spread of fried calamari, meatballs, chicken parmigiana, and spaghetti with clams.

"Collage of dishes at Vitolo, Conrad Fort Lauderdale, including [mention a couple of specific dishes if you recognize them, e.g., spaghetti carbonara and grilled fish]." "Food photography from Vitolo restaurant in the Conrad Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, with dishes like [mention a dish] and [mention another dish]." Top left: Brocoletti Left Middle 1: Bread with olive oil Left Middle 2: Calamari Bottom left: Clams and spaghetti Middle Top: Meatballs Top right: Wine Right Middle: Chicken Parmigiana Right bottom: Gnocchi carbonara with grilled shrimp

Beyond the Food: A Peaceful Morning at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, four girls picture with the banyan tree that is over 100 years old, and popular spot for weddings in Fort Lauderdale. It is also close to the beach Sunset A1A area.

On one of our mornings, we decided to balance our food adventures with a walk through Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. For just $6 for the group (thanks to a friendly ranger), we enjoyed the peaceful escape and stunning natural views.

Pro Tips for Your Own Fort Lauderdale Getaway

Four girls in front of the Water taxi at the GalleryOne Double Tree stop at the venice of america.
  1. Skip the Rental Car: Lyft, the Water Taxi ($39 for an all-day pass), and walking made getting around a breeze.
  2. Water Taxi: Perfect for exploring Fort Lauderdale by the Sea and Pompano Beach. Just be flexible with timing.
  3. February Weather: Perfect—soft sand, warm water, and low humidity.
  4. Pack a Weakpo Mat: Trust me, you’ll love lounging at the beach with it.

The Real Magic of Longtime Friendships

Four girls at the riverwalk at night in from of the wharf in Fort Lauderdale.
Four girls in front of Vitolo the italian restaurant by Anthony Vitolo at the Conrad Hilton hotel.
Four girls an their craft food tour guide in front of Archibald's Village Bakery.

Longtime friendships are like your favorite sweatshirt—comforting, reliable, and always better with time. Between the four of us, we represent 67 years of marriage, countless kid milestones, and an unspoken understanding that only comes from growing up together. As I watched the sunrise in Fort Lauderdale, I couldn’t help but feel incredibly grateful.

Next time someone suggests waiting for the “perfect time” for a friends’ trip, remember this: there’s no such thing as the “perfect time,” but there’s always a right time. And that time is now. Fort Lauderdale, we’ll be back—maybe next time with families or even for a cruise departure. But for now, I’m cherishing the memories of these three days that proved some friendships only grow stronger with time.

Stay tuned for more adventures on Janet on the Move!

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