CityView Magazine

42 April 2021 Bring on the tropical mimosas! The refreshing cocktail is a mix of Malibu coconut rum, champagne, pineapple juice and grenadine, garnished with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. GOOD EATS ISLAND TIME Fish fresh off the boat, fruity drinks and fun people make laid-back Latitude 35 a staycation hotspot BY JANET GIBSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY BURNHAM L et's face it, who couldn't use a tropical vacation right about now? A place where the grouper is fresh, your biggest decision is a margarita or mai tai, and Bob Marley reggae music magnifies the feel-good vibe. e only things missing are sand and a cabana boy who fans you with a giant palm frond. at's because the popular destination just happens to be in Fayetteville's Haymount neighborhood. Latitude 35 Bar & Grill is the next best thing to Key West or a Caribbean cruise – with prices that won't break the bank. And, just maybe, a part of your staycation itinerary. It's like our own version of Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville or Tommy Bahama eateries, but without the touristy element. Rather, locals have been frequenting the laid-back watering hole for a decade aer two longtime friends, David Crumpler and Tommie Purser, purchased the former Highlander. Menu favorites include shrimp or mahi tacos, fish and chips and a fantastic weekend brunch that's generous on the omelets, pancakes and French toast. Everything is served with an extra helping of hospitality. On a recent aernoon, we settle into the tropical-themed dog-friendly covered patio where the breeze conjures images of chillaxing oceanside. e only sounds of civilization are the occasional grinding of construction equipment next door at Cape Fear Regional eatre as it undergoes an eagerly anticipated renovation. As coronavirus restrictions slowly ease, a renewed energy fills the air. Bring on the tropical mimosas! Ten of the drinks were sold before the end of lunchtime the day before, declares Scott Schnieders, Latitude's happy-go-lucky general manager. Well, it was Hump Day. Guess they're all on Island Time. e refreshing cocktail is a mix of Malibu coconut rum, champagne, pineapple juice and grenadine, garnished with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

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