Florida State has an ongoing record for being one of the best party schools in the nation. Some critics argue that due to our rowdy reputation, we are unable to produce industry professionals. Here to prove them wrong, this article presents a look into two FSU alumni that utilized their entertainment skills to create a successful business.
American Social, commonly referred to as "AmSo," is a bar and restaurant located in the downtown area of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It is owned by FSU alum Rick Mijeres and FAU alum Paul Greenberg. Greenberg was one of the original managing partners of Potbelly’s (an FSU bar located on College Ave, Tallahassee) when it first opened in 1994. Mijeres enjoyed Pot's so much during his career at Florida State that he wanted to open a bar at home that would be just as successful. Years later, he would partner with Greenberg to create one of the most popular bars in his hometown of Fort Lauderdale. American Social has been such a success over the years that Greenberg and Mijeres have expanded their business and opened a second location in downtown Brickell, Miami.
AmSo is an upscale social club that mainly attracts the post-graduate crowd. It reflects a more sophisticated college scene with its packed barstools and booths on Saturday nights. And the bustle doesn't stop by Sunday morning. American Social hosts one of the most popular brunches in the downtown area. What sets American Social apart from other bars on Los Olas Boulevard is its warms ambiance, despite its cool downtown complexion. It is considered to be a cross between restaurant, sports bar, and lounge. Various issues of TIME Magazine are framed on the wall, which project an All-American theme, while painted bookshelves in the rear end of the restaurant set an old school kind of feel. The modern tabletop and bar stools gives the space a youthful style, and the couches along the walls provide a comfortable atmosphere – perfect for mingling over small plates and drinks. Perhaps the most significant aspect of what makes American Social so unique is the fill-it-yourself beer taps. A bartender connects the tap to each tab so that guests can fill their drinks as they please.
Mijeres and Greenberg (although an FAU alum, still a loyal Seminoles fan) clearly show their support of the Noles. AmSo has many times been considered an "FSU bar” because of its exciting Seminole spirit on game days; they practically threw a block party for the 2013 BSC Championship!
Funny, even after we graduate, we still throw the best parties.