Patty Caselle
Photos Courtesy Of Flanigan’s
Before it became a beloved Flanigan’s, this unassuming corner bar of South Federal Highway was already pouring drinks and dishing out memories. Originally home to Brown’s — a local diner and general store that included one of Boca Raton’s only bars during World War II — the building’s legacy of hospitality stretches back to the 1930s. It was operated by Harry and Florence Brown (and then Florence and their sons after Harry died), one of the city’s pioneering Jewish families. Later, it became Big Daddy’s Lounge, the predecessor to Flanigan’s, and by the 1970s, the space had cemented its reputation as a go-to for good times. Today, Patty Caselle, a 27-year veteran of the bar, carries that legacy forward — serving up signature drinks, plenty of stories and a brand of familiar charm that keeps regulars coming back.
Q&A
This spot’s been serving drinks since the days of speakeasies and swing music. What do you think makes this corner of Boca such a timeless place to grab a drink?
Flanigan’s has always been the center of town. Great prices, great food and great atmosphere. It’s where locals come to meet and new faces want to keep coming back.
Boca’s turning the big 1-0-0. If you were to shake up a cocktail worthy of this fabulous city, what would you call it — and what would be in it?
Boca Pinktini: orange vodka and a splash of both Triple Sec and cranberry-pineapple juice. Shake and serve in a martini glass with a slice of orange.
Working behind the bar teaches you a lot. What’s one lesson you’ve learned on the job that’s stuck with you?
I’ve learned that all customers are different. You meet all kinds, but you have to treat them all with respect. Your goal is to keep them coming back.
What cocktail on your menu best represents Flanigan’s vibe?
The Flanitini Martini — it’s our signature drink! It’s just a dessert in a glass with a kick. Once you try it, you’re hooked. Just like Flanigan’s.
You’ve probably seen some wild orders come across the bar. What’s the most unforgettable drink request you’ve ever gotten?
Tanqueray and YooHoo!
What’s one ingredient in your bar toolkit that you think deserves more love?
The jigger — it ensures a consistent drink with a great taste profile.
What’s a classic cocktail that, in your opinion, has made a serious comeback?
The old fashioned has definitely made a comeback with the younger crowd, and it is a good one.
What’s the one drink you’d make if you could only serve one cocktail for the rest of your life?
The standard margarita would be my go-to.
It’s Flanigan’s on a Friday night — music’s going, crowd’s buzzing. What’s your go-to drink to kick off the weekend?
The mojito. Let’s get it!
What’s one piece of bar wisdom you’d pass along to future generations of Boca bartenders?
Dealing with customers on the daily is a tough job — so love what you do, because that energy rubs off and creates the vibe you want with all your customers.
The Flanitini Martini
Ingredients:
• 1¼ oz. vodka
• ¾ oz. Baileys Irish Cream
• ¾ oz. Frangelico
• ¾ oz. Godiva chocolate liqueur
• ¼ oz. half & half
• chocolate sugar and caramel syrup for garnish
Instructions:
Rim a martini glass with chocolate sugar and drizzle the inside with caramel syrup. Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into the prepared glass.