“The idea for Santiago’s Bodega was born out of a childhood dream and a quest for adventure.”
From an early age, Jason Dugan knew that he wanted to open his own restaurant. His dream was to create an atmosphere where every night was a giant party, with the staff as welcoming hosts. He believed that the “tapas-style dining experience” would give his patrons the opportunity to taste a wide variety of dishes, enhancing the adventure and experience of being in a festive, celebratory atmosphere.
The name Santiago’s Bodega was inspired by the main character from Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. Santiago is an old fisherman whose determination and grit make him venture out further into the ocean than any of the others. He then transforms his hardship and loss into the deepest respect from others, and inspires a disciple to follow in his footsteps. It’s a wonderful story of a man’s pride, determination, strength, and transformation.
Because Hemingway is known for his life in Key West, Jason opened the original Santiago’s Bodega there in 2004. But the story doesn’t end there – that’s the beginning.
Jason’s love and dedication to creating a space with Santiago’s spirit: unique, celebratory, and rich in spirit. Creative Director and artist Robert Henry Thompson is responsible for the beautiful interior design of, as well as the artwork that creates the “look and feel” of Santiago’s Bodega.
Because of its success, Jason has opened new locations in Altamonte Springs and Orlando, FL. Each restaurant is unique but all capture the same essence of experience.
For the Fort Lauderdale location, Robert once again oversaw the creation of the Santiago’s Bodega experience. The tables use reclaimed wood and Robert’s own paintings adorn the walls. As with his food, Jason believes that building each restaurant from scratch provides a quality not attainable with ordering preassembled product.
The staff at Santiago’s Bodega is the key to success. As Jason envisioned, they welcome you to the best party each and every evening.
What are tapas? Tapas are equivalent to “small plates.” While tapas are a traditional Spanish style of eating, Santiago’s Bodega offers a globally inspired menu, and the tapas dishes are meant to be shared and enjoyed amongst the table.
The first Santiago’s Bodega in Key West has rave reviews online, including this golden nugget from Fodor’s Travel:
“Picky palates will be satisfied at this funky, dark, and sensuous tapas restaurant, which is well off the main drag–-it’s a secret spot for local foodies in the know. Small plates include yellowfin tuna ceviche with hunks of avocado and mango, and filet mignon with creamy Gorgonzola butter. Waiters recommend choosing three small plates per person, then sharing.”
The Fodor’s Review notes that Santiago’s Bodega in Key West is known for:
- Desserts as good as everything else
- Legendary bread pudding
- Homemade white or red sangria
- A favorite with local chefs
The Sun Sentinel is proudly listing Santiago’s Bodega as a new restaurant, opening in Flagler Village:
“The Key West stalwart for the last 17 years will open a fourth location in downtown Fort Lauderdale’s booming Flagler Village… Founder and operator Jason Dugan says, ‘Flagler Village is a neighborhood on the move — art, restaurants, music, great energy and walkable, everything one can ask for in a neighborhood. We are excited to be a part of the growth.’
“The latest Santiago’s Bodega can handle 160 people inside and another 30 on the patio. There will also be a full bar, weekend brunch service. two happy hours daily and the kitchen will remain open until 1 a.m. 445 NE 4th St., Fort Lauderdale.”
With Jason Dugan bringing Bodega Life to Fort Lauderdale, it’s appropriate to end with what Bodega Life means:
“It is approaching every day as a new adventure. It is ordering all the appetizers off a menu and making every dinner tapas-style. It is making friendships with both co-workers and patrons that last a lifetime…. It is having somewhere to belong, no matter what color your hair, how many tattoos you have, or who you love. Bodega Life is being one of the Santiago’s Bodega family.”
Danto Builders is thrilled to be bringing this new location to life, opening in May 2022, and joining in the Bodega Life!