The Stanley Cup has made its return to South Florida.
Following its time in Quebec with AJ Greer and Roberto Tol-ongo, the Stanley Cup was brought back to Broward County this week under the Florida sun after the Florida Panthers’ name was engraved on it for the 2025-26 season. On Wednesday, Scott Tinkler, the Panthers’ longtime equipment manager since the team’s inaugural 1993 season, had his moment with the legendary trophy.
In true South Florida fashion, Tinkler took the Stanley Cup to Flanigan’s, a beloved local restaurant. A video shared on social media by Flanigan showed the trophy filled with some of the restaurant’s iconic foods, including chicken wings, banzai brownie desserts, and their famous rib rolls, as captured in a photo by @miamiguydylan on X.
This local celebration stands out among many unique Stanley Cup moments over the past year. Flanigan’s, a South Florida institution since the 1950s, is known region-wide, with its green plastic cups appearing everywhere—from boats and beach gatherings to kitchens and the Amerant Bank Arena press box during Panthers games. If you grew up in South Florida and don’t have a Flanigan’s cup in your home, you’re likely in the minority. If that’s the case, it might be time to head to your nearest Flanigan’s and get one for yourself.
Fan Take: This moment is a powerful reminder of the deep connection between the Florida Panthers, South Florida culture, and their fans. Bringing the Stanley Cup to a local favorite like Flanigan’s not only honors the team’s achievements but also strongly ties hockey to the community, helping to grow the sport’s passion in a non-traditional hockey market.
