1939 Bar La Florida Cocktails

IN THIS CORNER

\ ORE than a century age —in the simple days of 1819— a typical Spanish chophouse rose above - — the walls at the entrance of the Monserrate gate. It was a pleasant grilled structure, a rendevous for beaux, musicians, army officers, attorneys, actors, gentlemen of culture and honor, desirous to partake of the delicious and tasty "mixed gin" or cherry Brandy. Ladies in their carriages under bright silken paraseis sippled delicious brandies while being courted by their gallant knights. This ideal venerated place was called the "Silver Fine". This was oved a century ago. Now —with the passing of years— the "Silver Fine" facing Albear Square, overlooking the oíd colonial streets filled with traditions of its romantic past, has been re- named "La Florida". "The Silver Fine" and "La Florida" cafe still stand, the former in our remenbrance, the latter in the reality of lifes daily toil, serving the public, business men, politi- cians, professionals, writers and the most beautiful of elegant women, with exquisite whipped fruit juices and most delicate wines and cqcktails.

"The Silver Fine" chophouse was transformed during the days of the American occupation into headquarters for the' good Yankee tipplers. The bartenders gradually