In my youth, there was a song, sung by Maria Muldaur.

Sometimes we think of corporations as heartless, faceless entities who are only concerned with the bottom line. But we forget that those corporations are made up of individuals and those individuals, working with the power of a corporation behind them, can make a significant impact, especially when focused on their community. That’s the case with the Pompano Beach-based Carrabba’s Italian Grill. The corporation that owns the chain, Bloomin’ Brands, also operates Bonefish Grill, Fleming’s Prime Steak, and Outback Steakhouse (hence the company name, derived from Outback’s signature dish, the Bloomin’ Onion).

We stopped by the other day after seeing my friend’s social media postings about its exotic cocktails and wonderful sushi. It was a quiet weeknight, rather early, 6:30-ish, and we had the place to ourselves. Since it was so quiet, we asked to see the upstairs balcony area. It’s a beautifully spartan place with lots of low tables and loungers, but it was a bit chilly, so we decided to dine downstairs where it was more enclosed.

If you haven’t made your dining plans for Christmas Eve, Day, or New Year’s, you’d better get crackin'.

Now in its fifth year, the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival will take place from Jan. 8-14, 2024, with a week-long series of hands-on experiences, celebrating the ever-evolving epicurean scene in South Florida. Here's a glimpse into the events scheduled.

Barcelona Wine Bar is a chain, with a couple dozen locations throughout a dozen or so states. However, from a visit to the Wynwood location (the only one in Florida), you’d never know it.