A Restaurant With Heart (and Heat)

Parkland’s dining scene is about to get a major upgrade with the arrival of Dear Olivia Bar & Kitchen, a vibrant new concept blending elevated comfort food, inventive cocktails, and a community-first spirit. Set to open August 6 at 7805 N University Drive, the restaurant has already begun generating buzz among locals looking for something fresh and stylish without leaving their neighborhood.

The restaurant is the latest project from P Hospitality Group, led by South Florida natives Eddie and Christina Pozzuoli and restaurateur Paul Greenberg. The name “Dear Olivia” is a tribute to Greenberg’s daughter, and that sense of personal connection carries throughout the space. The interiors strike a balance between warmth and polish, with soft green tones, twinkle-lit outdoor cabanas, lush greenery, and a waterfront view that invites guests to linger.

The menu is equally playful and unexpected. Creative starters like Korean-style steak tips, Reuben eggrolls, truffle mushroom flatbreads, and coconut shrimp set the tone for a dining experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously—without compromising on flavor. Entrees include beer-battered fish and chips, chicken riggies, char siu pork chops, and a perfectly grilled beef tenderloin. Even the casual dishes—like the OG spicy chicken sandwich and the double smash burger—are elevated with bold seasoning and thoughtful presentation. A standout fan favorite is sure to be the “Adult Happy Meal,” a whimsical trio of Caesar salad, boardwalk fries, and a martini that hits all the nostalgic notes with grown-up appeal.

The beverage program, crafted by former American Social mixologist Jose Gill, brings a fresh energy to the bar scene in Parkland. Signature drinks like the mezcal-infused Garden of Eve and the Blood and Honey, made with Hendrick’s gin and blood orange, offer something new to sip alongside curated wines and local brews. Whether guests are grabbing a casual lunch, settling in for happy hour, or turning up the volume on a Friday night, the ambiance shifts seamlessly to suit the moment.

Dear Olivia’s grand opening celebration, dubbed “First Sip,” is scheduled for August 6 at 6:30 p.m. and will include a charitable component benefiting Eagles Haven, a local wellness center that supports the Parkland community. The event reflects the spirit of the restaurant—welcoming, lighthearted, and rooted in giving back.

With weekend brunch launching later in August, weekly specials like $10 burger Mondays, and the launch of “Olivia After Dark” on Friday nights with DJs and lounge vibes, Dear Olivia is set to become more than just a place to eat—it’s a new go-to gathering place in a town that’s ready for something different.

For menus and reservations, visit www.dearoliviaparkland.com.

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