Honda Classic, Tiger Woods bringing boost to Palm Beach County businesses

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. - Tiger Woods' arrival for a practice round of golf at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens was coinciding with thousands of Honda Classic spectators this week. 

Those spectators will have an impact far beyond the bounds of the golf course.

The newest Rocco’s Tacos restaurant opened its doors on PGA Boulevard in early February. Employees there say it was "just in time." 

"Extra everybody…servers, bartenders, even managers. We're pulling from other stores and other locations,” said Dean Perna, general manager at Rocco’s, who has shifted staffing levels to accommodate larger crowds.

All of Rocco’s 220 seats were full on Tuesday night. Down the street, employees at the Marriot said their hotel, along with most in the area, had no vacancy. 

100,000 spectators are expected to arrive this week. Many came to see some professional golf; some to see Tiger Woods tackle the links at PGA National.  

"When Tiger decided to play here it just brings out the crowds,” said part-time resident Richard Cuccioli. "There is a change in attitude. We're alive here. We're alive at the Honda Classic. Certainly there's payback to the local community."