Last week, we had an article featuring Tony Dee and Charlie Mielke, known by many as the “dynamic duo,” who are bringing their expert touch and smart business sense to Tropics on Wilton Drive. The business partners and good friends for over 40 years are known for owning and running Chardees Dinner Club, which put Wilton Manors on the map in the late 1990s.
Months ago, Charlie and Dee’s nephew Steven informed Dee that Tropics was available and he was very interested in the property. Dee purchased the property that Tropics Restaurant is located on and Charlie and Steven purchased the restaurant.
Both Tony and Charlie have been dining at Tropics for a month now to become immersed in the establishment.
“We’re so happy to see so many faces that we haven’t seen in years, who remembered Chardees and remembered us and now we will be a part of it,” said Dee.
“At the same time, we’re thrilled about observing the entire staff,” said Charlie. “It seems like a marriage — the team work, the professionalism . . . it will be a pleasure for a smooth transition.”
There are plenty of exciting things planned for Tropics. First, the interior and exterior will be completely renovated, explained Dee. Charlie has a six month plan for other changes, including streamlining of the menus.
“There will be great quality of food for a great value,” said Charlie.
The team is planning an Endless Sunday brunch, and also coming soon will be a Thursday Evening Never Ending Buffet.
Event wise, Charlie intends to do a Christmas in July event, like he did at Chardees, for the entire month, culminating in a summer New Year’s Eve event. Booking is already in progress for this Valentine’s Day.
“We expect a full house and we hope everyone reserves early,” said Charlie.
Lots of exciting live entertainment, to be announced, is planned for Tropics.
Peter Petrucci will be headlining Sunday evening karaoke and all Tropics staff will remain on hand under the new management including Michael Terrezi, who has been there 18 years and can be found at Tropics main bar and manages all four bars.
Charlie said he was thrilled that Nate Horner has accepted his request to remain an anchor inside Tropic, which he singlehandedly created. Plus, Craig Kline, dining room manager and host will be there.
Dee has graciously accepted the position of being Craig’s understudy at the front desk, he joked.
Dee and Charlie are happy to make this fresh start and said that they appreciate all of the local business owners who helped out.
“People came forward and offered to help and make sure that we have another success,” said Charlie. The list includes Jackson Padgett and Mark Negrete of Bill’s and Alibi; Victor Zepka of Boardwalk, Laurie Whittaker of Sidelines, Paul Hugo of The Manor, Toni Barone, formerly of SeaMonster and several others.
Check out the new Tropics!
