The Quarterdeck was founded in 1966 when Paul Flanigan’s uncle, Joe “Big Daddy” Flanigan converted the Deem Drug Store on Cordova Road in Fort Lauderdale into a Big Daddy’s Liquor Store and Lounge. Paul bought the Quarterdeck from Big Daddy in 1985, and changed it into the Quarterdeck, a neighborhood bar with good food, ice-cold beer and great tasting drinks. The theme, if you can say one exists, evolved over the next few years into Florida casual. The food quality improved, and great tasting seafood, steaks and ribs, cold beer and liquor were served in an open atmosphere. The Quarterdeck features sliding windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate when the weather permits. Dozens of flat screen TV’s, pool tables great music and sliding tables and chairs enhance the laid back Florida Keys attitude. Not to worry, service standards were not relaxed. Personal service from the busboys to the managers is key to Quarterdeck’s success. Paul opened the second Quarterdeck on Fort Lauderdale Beach in 1997, and together Frank and Paul opened six more Quarterdecks west and north. The Quarterdeck is owned by a small group of operating partners, and every Quarterdeck is managed by one of their partners.

Quarterdeck® stays focused on a neighborhood–oriented strategy in its expanding South Florida territories. Each store is built to its market using an ambiance of old marine equipment‚ surfboards‚ framed photos of customers and their families‚ and huge saltwater fishtanks. "Our customers don’t just eat; they hang out"‚ says Paul Flanigan. "For us‚ it’s about doing what you love‚ serving the food you like‚ and making a personal connection with your customers."