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IN THIS CORNER
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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