We don't usually include bars on the site, but this one has a history in that it was Automatic Slims back in the day before the crash. There's a bit of chatter about the place; and any cash-only business raises some flags on its own. Of course the business isn't actually cash-only, which seems like a HUGE marketing mistake to me.
Cash Only is a "retro" concept that is supposed to transform patrons back to yesteryear at a time when bars were Cash Only. While I enjoyed Fort Lauderdale back in the 80s, I'm not sure that the Millenial crowd that largely populates Las Olas is going to get all nostalgic about 8 tracks. And how many 50yos are partying until 4am? It seems more likely yet-another drinking venue for the kind of people that hang out in Himmarshee these days.
With the Restaurant People opening 2 venues in 1 W Las Olas next door, this place should act as both a walkable companion and fierce competition.
Gotta feel bad for the Escape guys who planned on breathing air into the Old Art Bar.
Background
After much ado, we located the company that owns this place; Jack U LLC of Miami, which is using the name Hide and Seek as their DBA on the liquor license which made it very difficult to find. The ownership group has a strange structure; for example some of Jack U LLCs members are LLCs owned by Jack U LLC. Owners seem to be Johnny Adler of Fort Lauderdale, Angel Candelaria of Miami, Clint Hacker of Phoenix.
What's interesting is that they do NOT appear to have a smoking waiver, so there should be no smoking allowed inside the venue.
The place was designed by the same outfit in Miami that did Boatyard and Fork and Balls.
