After closing the restaurant in spring 2022 for a $4 million renovation, Anthony’s Runway 84 in Fort Lauderdale is set to host its first patrons today. The eight-month makeover was conducted to provide a relaxed, contemporary look that evokes the historic feel of Anthony’s Runway 84, now known as Runway 84.

“The decision to close was not an easy one to make, but it was the right one,” Anthony Bruno says, owner of Runway 84. “A successful 40-year run is almost unheard of in this business. We were blessed and lucky to have such a loyal following that stayed with us over so many years. It was time to refresh and prepare for our next 40 years doing what we do best: make people feel like family.”

The idea behind the significant renovation included Bruno, Pat Marzano of Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Marc Falsetto of Handcrafted Hospitality. The trio of restaurant veterans envision Runway 84 as a destination worthy of The Rat Pack. Miami-based award-winning design firm Bigtime Design Studios redesigned the venue, which includes a live music lounge featuring a new grand piano and dramatic crystal chandelier, a new bar complete with an elevated cocktail program and a dramatic new entranceway to deliver Copacabana vibes.

“Those that loved the original Anthony’s Runway 84 will find plenty of new to love and will find familiarity around every corner, from the art of the walls to the food on the plate,” Marzano says.

Along with the main indoor dining room, the restaurant will seat 190 guests featuring an outdoor dining room on the al fresco patio, an impressive bar, an intimate circular mini lounge and a private dining room. The menu for Runway 84 features a mix of classics, favorites and new offerings.

“The timing for Runway 84’s relaunch is perfect as Fort Lauderdale’s demographics are evolving and the culinary landscape continues to expand,” Falsetto says. “When it comes to dining out, guests are looking for elevated experiences that merge dining, drinking and entertainment and that is exactly what the new Runway 84 will deliver. I am honored to be part of the team making this dream a reality.”

Runway 84 is located at 330 West State Road 84 in Fort Lauderdale. Reservations are strongly suggested and can be booked here. For more information, visit www.runway-84.com.

(Photos courtesy of Runway 84)