By Melissa Puppo.
A few minutes north of downtown Fort Lauderdale lies one of Broward County’s quickly evolving neighborhoods: Oakland Park. It’s gained popularity over the years, in part due to popular haunts such as Funky Buddha Brewery (more on that below) and a robust small-business scene — from boutiques to culinary gems — beckoning locals and visitors alike to discover what makes this small-but-mighty city a must. From classics to new hangouts, read along as we share what makes Oakland Park the talk of the town.
Funky Buddha
Funky Buddha has brought funk to Oakland Park since welcoming the public in 2013. A decade later, the taproom is a South Florida institution for its innovative and creative brewing approach, plus its focus on experimental ingredients. Its beers have become so ubiquitous that it’s rare to go to any bar or restaurant and not be able to order one of the signatures, the Floridian Hefeweizen. This quintessential Funky pour is offered year-round, along with other releases, including a lineup of hard seltzers. Funky Buddha hosts epic events, like yoga and trivia, plus brewery tours for those who can’t get enough of this hotspot. funkybuddha.com
The Wander Shop
Since first introducing The Wander Shop — a lifestyle boutique curated with local and small brands — Marisa Folz has only continued to garner a loyal following. Once operating from an airstream, the down-to-earth business owner found her forever home in Oakland Park in 2021 with a bountiful stock of weekly arrivals, which she showcases on Instagram @tothewandershop. Shop women’s, men’s, and kids’ clothing, home decor, and gifts for everyone from birthday girls to brides-to-be. thewandershop.com
Flormosura
Flormosura has quickly become a sought-after brand for all flower needs in South Florida and beyond. Created by husband-and-wife duo Jackson Weber and Marcela Bazana-Weber, the budding business blends the expressive energy of Marcela’s hometown of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with the Art Deco vibes of South Florida. Gorgeous flowers come to life via inventive creations like simple yet striking bouquets to wow-worthy installations. Peek inside her studio to see what she’s putting together these days, or book the space for photo shoots, bridal showers, and more. flormosura.com
Rehaus
A newcomer to the neighborhood, Rehaus is a vintage furniture shop specializing in sustainability. “The concept is finding and restoring vintage pieces so that we can continue to appreciate the previous styles, generations, and memories,” says owner Kelsey Curran, who opened the storefront last year. “Each piece feels it’s meant to be part of your story.” Follow her on social media to check out what’s in stock from each new drop, like rattan dining furniture sets, velvet chairs, funky mirrors, and more. re.haus
Tatts & Tacos
When Mexican food cravings hit, stop by Tatts & Tacos. This tattoo art–inspired hangout features tasty tacos (like birria, honey lime shrimp, and carne asada), craft cocktails, and a beer garden to sit back and nosh on mouthwatering cantina cuisine like the favorite elote corn. Enjoy Drag Bingo on Wednesdays and 2-4-1 Happy Hour on Fridays. tattsandtacos.com
Vintage Vault
Many locals and visitors flock to Vintage Vault for antique and preowned collectibles, clothing, and furniture. Described as a “cabinet of curiosities,” Vintage Vault is the ultimate treasure trove filled with items ranging from coffee table books, old-school radios, abstract art, and much more. To get the full scope of this curated wonderland, you’ll have to stop by Vintage Vault for yourself. vintagevaultfurniture.com
Rebel Wine Bar
Owner Larissa Castelluber sought to create a new generation–style wine bar that was more approachable and less stuffy. She accomplished this with Rebel Wine Bar, aka the “Wild West.” Whether you’re stopping by for girls’ night or bringing a date, you’ll enjoy specials, including happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Sunday, BOGO rosé and sangria on Sundays, plus tapas and cheese boards. rebelwinebar.com
Mission Yoga
Bright, spacious, welcoming, and supportive are the words owner Shay Palmer uses to describe her yoga studio, Mission Yoga. “Now more than ever people are feeling a pull toward connection, both to their bodies and the surrounding community,” she says. Noting how Oakland Park seemed like “a city on the rise,” she opened the studio in 2021, which has since become a staple in the community. Stop by for Vinyasa and Slow Flow to Restorative Yoga and Athletic Recovery Flow. Mission also hosts monthly cold plunge and sound bath workshops and outdoor community classes. missionyogafl.com
Bulegreen Cafe Yard
Dreamt up by Vagner de Carli and Carlos Ribeiro de Castro in 2018, Bulegreen Cafe Yard serves delicious bites with Brazilian nuances in a cozy, inviting garden atmosphere. The restaurant’s name is inspired by the Portuguese pot Brazilians use to make fresh pour-over coffee, called a “bule,” which is commonly green in color. Brunch is served all day, but be sure to get there early, as the hotspot is known to bring out a crowd. Stop by for coffee or enjoy an indulgent meal (OMG Waffle, anyone?). It’s bound to become a recurring spot on your brunch lineup. bulegreen.us
LIPS
This neighborhood gem has become a staple in the community for locals and visitors alike to enjoy some of the most epic, memorable drag shows since opening its doors in 2007. Synonymous with South Florida drag, LIPS offers a dynamic lineup of weekly performances to keep everyone entertained. Think: Bitchy Bingo Wednesdays, Glitz & Glam Fridays, and Dragalicious Brunch on the weekends. fladragshow.com
