The Bird is Legal!

The legend began twenty-one years ago as of August 1. A man who many Marco Islanders knew well, Tony Rainone, opened the Crazy Flamingo in Town Center just off of Collier Blvd, where it can still be found today. Turning twenty-one is a rite of passage in American society, and therefore “The Bird” will be celebrating with a fabulous party on Saturday, August 7.

From the beginning, locals and visitors alike have flocked to The Bird for their one-of-a-kind steak sandwich, steamer pots of all varieties, amazingly seasoned peel-and-eat shrimp, and their excellent variety of fresh fish. As the years have gone by not much has changed by way of the menu.  Although Tony passed away nearly two years ago, his recipes, known as “The Bible” by his employees have remained intact. His brother, Jimmy Rainone, now owns the restaurant and has certainly kept the tradition alive.

While the location and the recipes have stayed the same, the Crazy Flamingo has implemented many changes throughout the

years. One of the most significant changes has been the addition of a sushi bar. Chef Luis Morales has created many original rolls for the restaurant, which has added even more variety to the already popular establishment.  Originally, the sushi area was a game room hosting pool tables, dartboards and arcade games. Though missing for a while, the pool table has now returned. A professional dartboard, along with a pinball machine, is on its way as well. Customers can also play Nintendo Wii while they dine or enjoy a beverage.

Through the years many have known that Crazy’s only accepts cash, but that has also changed. With the addition of a new computer system, most major credit cards are now accepted. The outside eating area has recently been revamped, and accommodations have been made for large parties to dine in or outside the restaurant.

Boasting such a vibrant history, the restaurant is more than proud to celebrate its twenty-first birthday. Festivities will begin around noon on Saturday, August 7, and run late into the evening. “We

are a family-oriented establishment and encourage people of all ages to attend,” comments Operations Manager, Rose Kriberscheck. The tented parking lot will hold most of the events. “There will be a bounce house for the kids outside as well as a dunk tank,” Rose adds. Face painting and arts and crafts will be offered along with free sushi rolling lessons by Chef Luis Morales for the children.

The Bird’s annual   will also take place during their birthday bash.  The competition will begin at four o’clock and contestants should sign up by three o’clock. A number of heats will take place depending on the spiciness of the wing. The Bird offers mild, hot, one-legged, two-legged and bald eagle flavors.  Only the bravest of souls should enter into the bald eagle competition, as it is by far the hottest wing in town!

Throughout the party local musicians will entertain both inside and out.

If you are one of the unlucky few that cannot attend this outrageous bash, remember, Crazy’s is open year-round. The restaurant

is offering an extended Happy Hour from 11 am to 6 p.m. throughout the summer. General Manager Danny “I’ll Tell You What I’m Gonna Do” Dawber adds, “Our dollar drafts and half-priced wines bring in a great local crowd.  We call it our adult day care center.”  A late night Happy Hour from 10 p.m. until 1:30 a.m. offers an inexpensive menu that includes 50-cent wings, fish tacos and a crab cake sandwich, to name a few, accompanied by the same dollar draft special and half-priced wines.

Open daily from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m., Crazy Flamingo offers different lunch and dinner specials every day of the week.  A sushi roll of the day is also available.  Live music is often offered on the weekends as well.  Make sure to get down to The Bird as soon as you can to experience “a raw slice of life,” Marco Island style!  And don’t forget to attend their 21^st birthday bash, Saturday, August 7.

For more information The Crazy Flamingo may be contacted at 239-642-9600 or through their website at www.thecrazyflamingo.com.