The phrase “local legend” gets kicked around a lot, but what else do you call Paul Castronovo? For decades, South Florida has woken up to Castronovo’s own brand of music and mayhem on numerous stations including WSHE, WZTA. For the past 20 years, The Paul Castronovo Show has been the weekday wake up call on Big 105.9.
The reason for Castronovo’s success is his love for all things South Florida. Sure, the show features big name celebrity interviews and prize giveaways, but what really resonates with all of us for so many years is Castronovo’s stories about his visits to local restaurants, favorite fishing spots, and adventures both at home and abroad with his friends, wife Gina, and sons.
We asked Castronovo to share his favorite spots with Lifestyle. From the best live music venue to delicious lunch spots, here’s where to find everyone’s favorite radio personality.
Favorite spot for morning coffee
To be honest, my favorite spot for coffee is my Jura machine that I spent more than a car payment on! It grinds the beans, makes espresso, cappuccino, and more. The only thing it doesn’t do is gently wake me up in the morning. Monday through Friday, I’m running out the door to go to work, so when I get a weekend at home, I’m on my deck, with my dog, drinking my coffee and waiting for my wife, Gina to wake up!
Go-to brunch or lunch spot
I don’t do brunch as much as I used to when I was heavy; however, we have a group of guys who meet for lunch a few times a week. Can I give you two?
One is Beauregard’s Fine Meats and Butchery in Boca Raton. It’s a butcher shop that does insane sandwiches, and my go-to is their pastrami on rye. My other spot is Cosa Duci, a little Sicilian deli, bakery, and market, also in Boca Raton. You know it’s the real deal – old Italian men sit there drinking coffee and watching soccer all day. I always order the peppers and eggs on ciabatta because it reminds me of what mom used to make. PS, I live in Boca.
Favorite workout spot or routine
I’m in the gym five to six days a week, and proximity to my house is crucial. I love Lift 365 Fitness. It’s a great gym, nobody bothers me, and if I go at 2:30-3 pm it’s empty (sort of). I lift for endurance, not strength as much anymore.
Favorite spot to escape the crowds or get back to nature
I’m a fisherman; if I get a chance to get on my boat with my son and my friends, and get offshore, that’s my happy place. I had a house for 20 years in Maine as well, and being on the water up there, with whales and eagles is very special. I also love crossing the Gulfstream and heading to Bimini in the Bahamas. When you lose sight of land, the stress melts away. Papas Pilar rum doesn’t hurt either…
Favorite shopping experience
Ever? It has to be Milan, Italy. My wife Gina and I spent a couple of nights in Milan a couple of years ago after I lost my weight (over 100lbs), and let me tell you, what a pleasure it was watching my wife pick out clothes from the Armani store…which was INSIDE our hotel!
Best bar, lounge, or rooftop for cocktails and sunset
I love watching the sunset at Elevate, the bar on the roof of the Opal Grand Hotel in Delray Beach. After the sun sets, I walk down a flight of stairs to Drift. It’s a Mediterranean seafood restaurant where I can get whipped feta, hummus, and a nice piece of salmon along with a crazy good wine list. Awesome spot and great for a staycation as well.
Ultimate South Florida dinner spot and must-order dish
There’s only one place for me, and it’s Runway 84. My problem is, by the time I get done with the hot and cold antipasto, and the bread and the olive oil, I’m full! But somehow I end up ordering even more. I love the chicken scarpariello, the spicy rigatoni vodka, and the yellowtail, Runway style.
Favorite place for live music, a nightcap, or a DJ
As a rock music guy, I have to tell you, the Pompano Beach Amphitheater is the easiest venue to get in and out of. Don’t get me wrong, the Hard Rock Live is ridiculous and fantastic, and if you pair a concert with dinner at Abiaka Wood Fire Grill, forget about it. But for an easy, fun night out, close to my house? Gimme Pompano.
Go-to South Florida weekend
Ok. Let’s start with Thursday nights. Happy hour at my place for cigars and wine with my neighbors. Then we hit one of the 2,000 restaurants in East Boca for an early dinner. Lately, we like the happy hour at 388.
Friday night, we might pop into Patsy’s and sit at the bar. It’s a Harlem spot that recently opened in downtown Boca that has phenomenal pizza.
Saturday morning: I’m fishing. If we catch something, I’m cooking in my outdoor kitchen as I wait for my beloved Florida Gators to come on TV – unless I’m going to the game.
Sunday: Boca Bagel Bar to pick up breakfast, and then we’re heading to Hard Rock Stadium to watch the Dolphins (maybe) win! Whew! I’m exhausted!
