Old Town’s Backyard is an outdoor gathering space located in the Arts & Entertainment District of Pompano Beach’s Old Town. This area was formerly a grass lot used for parking that included a large Ficus tree with a temporary plywood deck covering the tree’s exposed root system. The space was significantly underutilized.
Construction in Old Town’s Backyard commenced in October 2021 and underwent a full transformation while preserving the Ficus tree. Completed in 2023, this 15,000-square-foot public and dining plaza is located just north of the Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) building between NE First Avenue and N Flagler Avenue. The Backyard is as an outdoor pedestrian-friendly gathering space shared by new restaurants and businesses being attracted to Old Town. The evolution of Old Town’s Backyard is aligned with the vision of Downtown being the City’s arts, culture and entertainment district.
South Bar & Kitchen
The first business to open in Old Town’s Backyard is South Bar & Kitchen. The culinary concept offers a contemporary Southern American concept with a heavy Cajun influence. Located at 165 NE 1st Avenue, the space was originally an old general store in the 1900s. South Bar & Kitchen features an outdoor restaurant patio that opens into The Backyard. The centerpiece of this space is the iconic Ficus tree encased by a custom deck and embellished with sparkling lights. Finishing touches include custom murals by local artists and lush landscaping.
The CRA attracted South Bar & Kitchen through incentives geared toward attracting new business owners. A total of $304,258 in CRA incentives and tenant improvements were allocated to the project in addition to South Bar & Kitchen’s $2.5 million investment.
CRA Investment
The CRA acquired a 30-year land lease where Old Town’s Backyard resides. This investment provides opportunity for the CRA to engage in a rewarding partnership by attracting future businesses and restaurants through favorable leasing conditions in an enhanced space.
December 2021 – Construction Begins
May 2022 – Under Construction
January 2023 – Under Construction
April 2023 – Completed
