Jon Davis
Tell us about yourself and what you do for a living?
I have worked as a musician for 6 years now, and love expressing myself through my art. I’ve worked with producers around the world and write and compose the majority of my projects. In addition to pursuing my passion for music, I also work in business development at an anti-aging tele-med clinic that is dedicated to improving people’s lives by harnessing the latest advances in medical technology. I’ve always been a health and fitness geek as well as a creative. These two professions have allowed me to explore two of my largest interests.
How long have you been living in Fort Lauderdale, and what influenced your decision to move here?
In the early Covid era, my partner and I made the decision to relocate to Fort Lauderdale from our previous residence in Manhattan. Although the move was initially prompted by a work opportunity, fate worked out perfectly as we settled into this beautiful coastal city. As an artist, I had already been releasing music through my publisher, but as the pandemic took hold and the entertainment industry came to a standstill, I had more time to write new music and found inspiration in the calm of our new surroundings. It was a noticeable shift in workflow from the chaos of Manhattan. Meanwhile, my partner seized an opportunity to establish a thriving millwork business with his brother, specializing in luxury renovations. The demand for home improvement surged during the pandemic, and their business flourished.
Jonathan Davis (Photo by Dennis Dean Images)
What are your favorite places to go for cocktails and/or dinner?
The Alchemist Café is one of my favorites, and Frenchie’s By The Sea is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Meanwhile, Café Vico is my pick for those craving authentic Italian cuisine. For a more casual experience, there’s always Rosie’s or Tulio’s, both of which are casual and always a fun time. When I need to escape I go to the W Hotel. The lobby is the perfect spot to work with a glass of wine in hand.
What cultural attractions or events are a must see for visitors?
Fort Lauderdale has a surprisingly good theater scene. There’s the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which has some interesting acts, but there are also a lot of small theaters that have really great shows. One of the best shows I’ve ever seen was at The Empire Stage on Flagler street. It’s also a good idea to check out Wilton drive, and of course the beaches.
A friend is coming to Fort Lauderdale for the first time. Please describe the perfect weekend.
We’d start with dinner at Tulios (assuming they’re coming early on a Friday) then possibly grab a drink at DrYnk after so they can see the drive. The next morning we’d wake up and take bikes to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, and do a lap before grabbing something to eat, either at the little cafe at the entrance to the park, or somewhere along the beach. After brunch we would go back home to change and grab a quick workout before meeting some friends either by the pool or at the beach for a bit. Dinner would be at Union Café for an excuse to wear a shirt with sleeves, and afterwards we’d entertain a group of friends at our house for a game night. The following morning we get up, cook breakfast, and eat it in the yard before sending them off to the next destination, wherever that may be…
What are the best places to truly enjoy the natural beauty ofthe area?
In my opinion Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is beautiful. The foliage is so thick you can’t hear the road, making it surprisingly quiet inside the park. There are a million spots along the beach, but the sunrise at the bottom of Sunrise Blvd. is pretty spectacular as well.
What is your favorite time of year in Fort Lauderdale and why?
Winter, hands down. The humidity drops and the weather really is magical. It feels peaceful and still despite the fact that it is also the time when tourism is at its peak. Before I moved here I struggled with winter depression, which the Florida sun completely eradicated.
What locally made product would you suggest visitors bring back for their family and friends?
That’s a tough one. I would say go to Lola’s Market where there are a lot of interesting items. I’m a travel addict, so everywhere I go I try to bring back something interesting and unique to the place. I think if I were visiting from somewhere else and I stumbled into that market I would be pleased with some of the unique trinkets. They make for good memory place holders.
Please finish this sentence: Don’t leave Fort Lauderdale without…
Making a friend who you can come back to visit!
