In 2004, Tony and Merrill Hollinger bought the property at 362 West Dearborn Street, which was known as The Emporium, a collection of about nine shops surrounding a courtyard with a hamburger stand. After the purchase, the shops gradually moved out, and the Hollingers began reimagining the space. In 2009, Englewood’s on Dearborn officially opened.

Merrill Hollinger manages operations behind the scenes, while Tony Hollinger oversees the front of house and kitchen. In 2011, the couple made a pivotal decision to focus primarily on blues music. Today, Englewood’s on Dearborn features blues performances Tuesday through Thursday, showcasing national, international, and local artists. Weekends typically feature Top 40 bands.

Upcoming performances include the Blues Beatles, a Brazilian blues group that mixes the melodies of the Beatles with the blues, on Feb. 25 with a $10 cover, and an ABBA tribute band on Feb. 27.

The menu reflects Tony Hollinger’s Austrian roots, with dishes such as schnitzel and Hungarian goulash, along with popular entrees like Crawfish Diablo and shrimp with fried cheesy grits. Bavarian apple strudel comes directly from Germany.

The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday starting at 4 p.m., with happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. on the outdoor patio. The restaurant never cancels bands because of weather, as they move performances indoors when needed.

When asked about the secret to success, Merrill Hollinger said, “We pray a lot,” citing faith, perseverance and adaptability through challenges including the 2008 recession, COVID-19 and street construction.

More information about Englewood’s on Dearborn is available at englewoodsondearborn.com or by calling 941-475-7501.

The post Englewood’s on Dearborn Finds Its Groove With Blues, Food and Perseverance appeared first on Englewood Review.

Englewood Weekly’s Thursday Bites: Your Thursday Dining & Entertainment Update!

This week’s edition features Spinnaker Cafe, Zarate’s, and The Waverly!

Englewood Review’s Thursday Bites newsletter is your inside track to everything tasty and fun in Englewood, Florida.

We’re ready to help you plot out your next sumptuous meal, find the local events worth your time, and dive into the energy that makes our town feel alive. Whether you want to try a fresh spot for dinner or need some live music to kick back, you’ll find it here.

This week, check out Spinnaker Cafe—home-style cooking, made from scratch, and a favorite with people who live here. Open 7 days a week, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss the video.

Next up: Zarate’s. Remember the name. The flavors stick with you long after you leave.

And The Waverly? It’s a coastal spot where every detail matters, and the experience goes way beyond the food.
Sign up for our newsletter and every Thursday you’ll receive the best picks for dining and entertainment around town. Who will be featured in next week’s Thursday Bites? Go to our website englewoodreview.com and subscribe today.

The post Taste of Englewood: Englewood Review’s Brand-New Thursday Bites Newsletter Presents the Best in Dining & Entertainment appeared first on Englewood Review.

The post NOW OPEN: Englewood’s Chophouse285 (Video) appeared first on Englewood Review.