Weekend in Hollywood

Hollywood Beach

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Lounging in a cabana (with Wi-Fi) on Hollywood Beach seemed like the perfect way to wile away a Saturday. On the sand across from the Marriott (hollywoodbeachmarriott.com) — a fave place of mine to stay — the Atlantic was irresistible, especially since summer arrived with gusto (umm, it was nearly 100 degrees).  As island tunes from the Marriott pool wafted my way, I decided dinner would be at Lola's on Harrison (lolasonharrison.com). Luckily, it was the third Saturday of the month, when downtown Hollywood hosts an Artwalk (visithollywoodfl.org/events.aspx). Lola's was a perfect setting to watch the dog-themed gathering of people and pooches while indulging in chef Michael Wagner's new appetizer: Three purple potato skins topped with a dollop of American sturgeon caviar. Add in sundried tomato crème fraîche, roasted garlic, smoked bacon bits and chives for an atypical delight. Indulge in the lobster roll, too. It comes with a garlic buttered hot dog bun. I'm planning my next Hollywood escape already.