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Over 200 people attended the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of Dear Olivia Bar & Kitchen on Wednesday.

Located at 7805 N. University Drive, the Parkland Chamber held its ribbon-cutting ceremony, later followed by a “First Sip” Happy Hour with proceeds benefiting Eagles Haven, a charity that supports victims and survivors of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting.

Doug Eaton, president of the Parkland Chamber, said that Parkland is like an extended family, and this was more than just a restaurant opening—it was a heartfelt welcome to people who lead with heart, into a community that truly values that.

“They’re going to do well here—not just because the food is excellent and the service is attentive—but because they genuinely care about people. And that’s something everyone who walks through their doors will feel right away.”

Located in the former Deja Blue space, the new dining establishment is a project by Eddie and Christina Pozzuoli, along with their partner, Paul Greenberg of P Hospitality Management, a group behind several restaurants in South Florida.

Named after Greenberg’s daughter, Olivia, who thanked everyone for coming, the restaurant aims to reflect a sense of fun and hospitality.

Greenberg said, “I grew up in Coral Springs, Eddie and Christina grew up around here, and it feels like a homecoming. What we’re going to do here is have fun….I really want to have fun here.”

He added that you can go to any other restaurant, they can have great food; however, “Nobody, I can promise you this, will provide the hospitality that we do.”

Greenberg said the concept is designed to be a welcoming, casual space offering a mix of food, cocktails, and entertainment for families, friends, and sports fans.

The menu features a variety of shareable appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees, including Korean-style steak tips, brisket French dip sandwiches, and shrimp and grits. The bar program, led by Jose Gill, a former cocktail director at American Social, will highlight craft cocktails, local beers, and wine.

Eddie Pozzuoli thanked the crowd for making the trip out here and for believing in them.

“The support we’ve received after opening Eddie and Vinny’s and now Dear Olivia has been overwhelmingly positive, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of the city, the commission, and everybody who’s surrounding us. This is truly a homecoming for all of us, and we couldn’t be happier to open a Dear Olivia in our hometown.”

Mayor Rich Walker, who attended the event, said Dear Olivia is bringing a vibrant new dining experience to the city.

“It’s exciting to have a local hotspot which is perfect for families, friends, lunch meetings—and sports fans, with Monday Night Football, Sunday, and Thursday games,” adding that it’s another opportunity for residents to come together, connect, and enjoy great food in a welcoming atmosphere.

Eaton said that as a Chamber, we’re proud to support businesses like this—ones that reflect Parkland’s values, strengthen our local economy, and enhance the quality of life we all enjoy.

“In a town like ours, we don’t just support local—we share meals, we build memories, and we grow together. This new spot is going to be part of that story.”

Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.

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Sharon Aron Baron

Sharon Aron Baron is a Parkland resident and editor of Talk Media. She has been covering Parkland news since 2012. Parkland Talk was created to provide News, Views, and Entertainment for the residents of Parkland.