By Sharon Still
After several years serving family-style Italian dishes to the Brandon area, Buca di Beppo of Brandon has closed its doors. The building, located at 11105 Causeway Blvd., will open up as Ford’s Garage in Spring 2015.
Ford’s Garage is described on its Website as “your neighborhood burger and beer joint” and has locations in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Estero, Fla. The restaurant will be designed as a 1920’s service station converted into a prohibition bar with unique decorations throughout.
Gourmet burgers and the largest selection of American craft beer in southwest Florida are the menu highlights at Ford’s Garage. The hand-pattied burgers are made with the finest varieties of Black Angus Beef, fresh seafood, free range chicken and turkey, farm fresh cheeses and gourmet toppings.
Each location features its own signature burgers, dubbed “Burgers of Fame” that give honor and recognition to local celebrities, decision makers and public service employees.
The assembly line burger bar allows diners to put together their own burger from top to bottom. Customers start by choosing their choice of bun , type of burger and cheese and then selecting add-ons and toppers including traditional items and some not-so-traditional such as deep fried pickles, cucumber wasabi mayo, grilled jalapenos and more.
In addition to burgers in all flavors and combinations; salads, mac ‘n cheese, steaks, fish ‘n chips and shakes also are available.
Janet Nappi of Brandon said she and her family of five visited Buca di Beppo for special occasions about half a dozen times a year.
“While we are saddened to see it close, I must say the last time we were there, it seemed the quality had gone done and we left disappointed,” she said.
Representatives from Buca di Beppo were not available to comment on the Brandon restaurant’s closing at press time.
Buca di Beppo still has locations throughout the United States with the closest one to Brandon being in Orlando at 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail.
The Osprey Observer will provide updates on the progress of Ford’s Garage as the anticipated opening of Spring 2015 draws closer.
For more information and to check out Ford’s menu, visit www.fordsgaragefl.com.
