The Yelp Elite Squad is constantly growing. Every day, bright eyed and bushy tailed Yelpers are getting their shiny new Elite badge and becoming the newest members of the Broward-Palm Beach Elite Squad.
Phylicia K was one of those folks last year. As a matter of fact, she was one the brightest, as she was crowned the Rookie of the Year at the 2016 Broward-Palm Beach Yelpies because of her enthusiasm and activity on Yelp!
In just a few months she has gone from rookie to vet! Get to know her in this issue of Meet the Elite.
Why did you start Yelping?
I moved away from South Florida for college and when I returned, I felt like everything had changed. I decided to embrace new experiences instead of wallowing in the sentimental past. I began to explore my hometown from a different lens and was captivated by the way the diverse cultures of South Florida were present in our art, food, and businesses. I began to meet other Yelpers so we could adventure together.
What does it mean to be Yelp Elite to you?
Being Yelp Elite means being open to new experiences and being honest about them. Having visited so many destinations, my five star rating is calibrated to mean “WOW!” and during those unfortunate times when you have a one or two star experience, my feedback is constructive. I want our community to thrive, be rich in culture, and sustain local businesses.
How did you feel before attending your first event?
I consider myself a social person, but I was still nervous. I took a leap of faith and I’m glad I did! Everyone went out of their way to introduce themselves and make me feel welcome.
How would you describe the Yelp community?
The community is fun, friendly, and full of life. When I travel, I’ve reached out to local community managers and appreciate the warm welcome to their home. Local Yelpers are always willing to provide a list of “must visits” and I hope I can be that person for someone because, in the end, we are all one big community.
I’ve also been invited to Yelp events throughout Florida, mingling with the Orlando, Tampa and Miami communities, but Yelp Broward-Palm Beach (BPB) will always be my home community. I hope everyone has a chance to experience Yelp BPB.
What keeps you writing reviews?
I travel a lot for business and for the adventure and have relied on local Yelpers to help me plan my trips. I want to be the BPB local to excite visitors and help them plan their own adventures.
What are the Top 3 restaurants in Broward-Palm Beach you would recommend?
Bristol Burgers at The Diplomat is “très chic.” It offers great views of the Intracoastal, delicious burgers, and classic (or boozy) milkshakes.
Tipsy Boar in Hollywood is perfect for lunch, dinner, and late night. With over 30 beers on tap and patio seating, it’s a must for happy hour! I highly recommend the goat cheese croquettes, stone fire pizzas, blackened mahi, and apple pie. Are you feeling hungry yet? I like to go with a group so we can order and share a little bit of everything.
What’s been your favorite Elite Event?
My favorite Elite event was the 2016 New and (G)old Dinner. New Elites sat with Gold Elites as a way to welcome us and show us the ropes. We talked photography, travel, and, for us foodies, compared gym routines. I especially like assigned seating at events because you have the opportunity to meet new people and spend time getting to know each other. The event was hosted at Ciao Cucina and you have to try their prosciutto crostini. Yum!
About the Yelp Elite Squad: The Yelp Elite Squad is our way of recognizing people who are active in the Yelp community – people who are role models both on and off the site. Elite-worthiness is based on a number of things, including well-written reviews, high quality tips, a detailed personal profile, an active voting and complimenting record, and a history of playing well with others. Elites must use their real name on their account, have a real (and clear!) profile photo, and be of legal drinking age in their country. You can read more, and even nominate yourself at yelp.com/elite
