As Fort Lauderdale paves the way for a more mature audience, it doesn't mean that the City can no longer be fun. The popularity of the Golden Lyon Pub is living proof that this cool beach town is all grown up.

Situated inside Las Olas Boulevard's historic Riverside Hotel, which was built in 1936 by the Wells family during the Great Depression. The hotel's legendary bar was once known as the "Copper Cup." Today, hotel guests who could choose from an array of other watering holes along the boulevard continue to hang out here, amongst the locals and regulars who take pride in their pub.

The Golden Lyon Pub's laid-back atmosphere and comfortable setting also provides a safe haven for pro athletes, entertainers, politicians and celebrities passing through like the late Johnny Carson and his sidekick Ed McMahon, as well as game show host Vanna White.

The Golden Lyon has its own private street entrance and offers a comfortable outdoor patio overlooking fashionable Las Olas Boulevard. The pub is guarded by two noticeable, life-size golden lion statues, which create a visible meeting point to start your evening.

Its dark, cherry wood and green leather furniture emulates the style of Tommy Bahama, as lazy Bermuda-style ceiling fans circulate above giving you an air of casual cool. The uniquely U-shaped bar offers a view of other people instead of a row of liquor bottles, adding a touch of class to this drinking establishment.

In this comfortable setting Shelley Shallcross, the head bartender, draws younger and middle-aged crowds as he serves up mixed drinks, starting at a reasonable $6. Beers range from $4 to $6 and wines by the glass start at $6.50. If classic cocktails are your speed, then you've come to the right place. Shelley serves classic cocktails the old-fashioned way from Gin Rickies, Brandy Alexander's to Tom Collins.

Looking for something to eat? Shelley can satisfy your taste buds by serving anything off the menu from the Riverside Hotel's three restaurants - the highly acclaimed Grill Room on Las Olas, inviting Indigo and its latest addition, Brio Mediterranean Bistro. No other pub in town can dish out a finer selection of entrées, so stop by to see what all the fuss is about.

Golden Lyon Pub is located inside the Riverside Hotel at 620 E. Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; call 954-467-0671 for additional details.