Welcome, food enthusiasts and adventurous taste-testing tourists, to the vibrant culinary scene of Fort Lauderdale, Florida! Calling all the foodies out there, this is your exclusive guide to some of the city’s most delectable dining destinations. Prepare your taste-buds for a savory expedition and let’s explore the accolade-worthy eateries that this sunny paradise has to offer.
Situated along the southeastern coast of Florida, Fort Lauderdale does more than just serve up a generous helping of beachfront beauty and glittering waterways. The city has truly transformed into a hotspot for innovative food choices, bringing together a mix of cultures and cuisines into a gastronomical potpourri.
From beachside burger joints to upscale fine dining venues, from authentic Cuban delicacies to fresh-off-the-boat seafood, Fort Lauderdale’s culinary landscape is as diverse as the city itself. The food scene here is an exciting blend of the traditional and the contemporary, all served with a side of Southern charm and ocean views. So, put on your most comfortable shoes, bring your biggest appetite and get ready for a culinary adventure like no other.
Most Popular Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
If you’re in the Sunshine State and looking for culinary delight, Fort Lauderdale won’t disappoint you. Here are some of the city’s most popular eateries, where you can enjoy mouth-watering delicacies crafted with expertise.
Casa D’Angelo RistoranteFirst on our list is Casa D’Angelo Ristorante. It is located at 1201 N Federal Hwy #5a, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. It is an upscale choice for meticulously prepared Italian cuisine in a cosy, plush ambiance. This restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Angelo Elia, known for his dedication to maintaining a true Tuscan essence in every dish. You can expect to find traditional Italian fare such as homemade pasta, wood-grilled steaks, and more. Don’t forget to explore their extensive wine list.
BoatyardRenowned for its seafood offerings, Boatyard is a must-visit whilst in Fort Lauderdale. It’s situated at 1555 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. The restaurant offers an upscale, nautical-chic ambiance with a dockside patio that makes it perfect for enjoying the South Florida weather. From their catch of the day to the raw bar, you’re bound to find something that satisfies your seafood cravings.
Shooters WaterfrontStrategically located at 3033 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 is the wildly popular Shooters Waterfront. Besides the stunning water views, they offer a delightful blend of contemporary-American fare with meal options that range from sushi to burgers. Their famous Sunday brunch is something you can’t afford to miss. The atmosphere here is relaxed, making it an ideal place for a leisurely meal.
J. Alexander’s RestaurantThis list wouldn’t be complete without the mention of J. Alexander’s Restaurant, located at 2415 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305. The restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its classic American food served in a sleek, contemporary setting. Besides their scrumptious steak and seafood selections, they also offer a wide array of salads, sandwiches, sides, and desserts, making it a versatile dining spot.
So, the next time you’re in Fort Lauderdale, make sure to check out these popular restaurants. They each offer a unique charm and distinct menu, promising an unforgettable dining experience in the city. Bon appétit!
Most Unique Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
Start your gastronomical journey in the sunny city of Fort Lauderdale with a visit to the one-of-a-kind culinary destination, Riverside Market. Located at 608 SW 12th Ave, this hidden gem is loved by locals for its laid-back ambience and unique honor system – just grab a drink from the cooler and keep a tab on what you’ve taken! Riverside Market offers a great selection of over 550 craft beers, delicious pizzas, and mouthwatering sandwiches, making it the ideal spot for a chilled-out evening with friends or family. Like to enjoy your beer with a side of trivia? Don’t miss their popular trivia nights for a fun and competitive night out!
Next on the list is a truly unique restaurant that combines spectacular views with an innovative dining concept – Pelican Landing. Situated at 2301 SE 17th St, this restaurant is tucked away on the Intracoastal, and gives you the chance to arrive by boat if you fancy! Boasting locally-sourced seafood, craft cocktails, and breathtaking views of the marina, Pelican Landing offers a dining experience that is truly Floridian. Their famous Sunday brunch featuring fresh oysters, shrimp cocktail, and refreshing mimosas is a must-try!
For a true taste of the diverse culinary landscape of Fort Lauderdale, head over to Royal Pig Pub, located at 350 E Las Olas Blvd. This smart gastropub serves up innovative twists on comfort food favorites. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger topped with gourmet ingredients or a delectable lobster mac & cheese, Royal Pig Pub has you covered. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their craft cocktails or locally-brewed beers.
For seafood enthusiasts, Catfish Dewey’s is a destination that simply cannot be missed. Nestled at 4003 N Andrews Ave, this one-of-a-kind restaurant has been a local favorite since 1984. Specializing in all-you-can-eat seafood options, including stone crab, shrimp, and of course, catfish, this quirky and casual restaurant delivers a hearty and delicious dining experience.
Last but certainly not least, we have Le Bistro. Found at 4626 N Federal Hwy, this charming French restaurant takes you on a culinary voyage to France, right from the heart of Florida. Le Bistro is well-known for their cooking classes, giving you a unique opportunity to learn some French cooking techniques while enjoying a gourmet meal. Their menu, which changes seasonally, includes classics such as Escargots à la Bourguignonne and Bouillabaisse, ensuring an authentic French dining experience.
Best Casual Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, the beautiful beach town in the sunny state of Florida, is home to a myriad of delicious dining options. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re sure to find a casual restaurant in Fort Lauderdale to satisfy your palate. Here are some of the best casual dining spots in the city.
Firstly, Stout Bar & Grill offers an exceptional dining experience. Located at 3419 N Andrews Ave, Oakland Park, FL, it is a top-rated casual bar and grill that offers a variety of perfectly crafted bar bites along with an extensive drink menu. The Stout sliders and chicken wings are must-try menu items at this local favorite. Moreover, the Stout Bar & Grill stands out for its friendly service and cozy ambiance, making it an idyllic spot for a casual night out.
Next on the list is Coconuts, tucked away at 429 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale. This waterfront restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and incredible views. The menu boasts an array of seafood dishes, including a delectable crab cake sandwich and divine coconut shrimp. The pleasant outdoor seating area offers a stunning view of the Intracoastal Waterway, adding a relaxing touch to your dining experience.
Another must-visit place is Las Vegas Cuban Cuisine situated at 2807 E Oakland Park Blvd, Fort Lauderdale. Serving traditional Cuban delicacies, this vibrant eatery has been a local favorite for over thirty years. From ropa vieja to picadillo, you’ll find all the Cuban classics here. Be sure to save room for their tres leches dessert – it’s a well-loved favorite with regular patrons.
For pizza enthusiasts, Mellow Mushroom located at 525 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale is a dream come true. This casual dining spot offers an assortment of delicious pizzas that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. In addition to their creative pizza offerings, Mellow Mushroom also offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their scrumptious dishes.
Finally, if you’re craving a classic American burger, you can’t go wrong with ROK:BRGR. Located at 208 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, this casual gourmet burger bar and gastropub offers a range of mouth-watering burgers. Notable mentions include their short rib burger and truffle fries. A great craft beer selection and signature cocktails round out their delightful menu.
These fantastic eateries combine delicious food, excellent service, and a relaxing ambiance, ensuring a delightful casual dining experience in Fort Lauderdale.
Best Family Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
When you’re vacationing in Fort Lauderdale with your family, a key aspect of the trip is finding the right restaurant. A place that caters to all needs, tastes, and preferences, ensuring happy and satisfied faces at the end of the meal. Here are some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Fort Lauderdale that promise to provide you with a delightful dining experience.
Starting off our list is the fantastic Bimini Boatyard Bar & Grill. Located at 1555 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, this ocean-themed restaurant is sure to delight your family with its relaxed atmosphere and enchanting water views. The menu is a blend of fresh seafood and savory grill items, making it a perfect choice for families with diverse palates. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty steak or a refreshing salad, Bimini Boatyard has got you covered.
Moving on, Coconuts at 429 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, is another great choice for families. Known for its beautiful beachfront location and friendly service, Coconuts offers an extensive menu filled with a variety of seafood, burgers, and salads. And for the adults, their noteworthy cocktail selection is sure to impress.
For those seeking an international touch, Cafe Vico is a must-visit. Located at 1125 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, this Italian eatery promises a journey of flavors through its authentic dishes. From homemade pasta to traditional tiramisu, every item on the menu is crafted with love, passion, and an old-world charm. A special mention for their kid’s menu, which makes sure your little ones have a fantastic and flavorful dining experience.
If your family is in the mood for some comfort food, head to Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza. Situated at 2203 S Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, this friendly pizza joint offers an array of mouthwatering pizzas, sandwiches, and salads, all cooked in their signature coal-fired ovens. The warm and welcoming interior offers a cozy dining experience, making it a perfect place for families to bond over a delicious slice of pizza.
Finally, YOLO (You Only Live Once) at 333 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 wraps up our list, bringing a contemporary vibe with an elegant touch to your family’s dining experience. Known for its cozy fire pit and open kitchen, YOLO has a range of delectable foods for both kids and adults. From Brussel Sprouts & Cauliflower to Oak Grilled Scottish Salmon, their varied menus ensure choices for everyone.
Plan your family dining experience in Fort Lauderdale keeping in mind these eateries. No matter where you go, remember that good food, great service, and warm ambience are the ingredients that make a meal truly memorable.
Best Takeout Food in Fort Lauderdale
So, you’re in Fort Lauderdale and you’re craving something delectable but want to enjoy it from the comforts of your own space? Well, you’re in luck! Fort Lauderdale boasts a generous variety of restaurants that offer scrumptious takeout food. To aid you in your culinary journey, here are a few top picks you absolutely have to try.
First on the list is Coconuts. This waterfront eatery, located at 429 Seabreeze Blvd, is renowned for its seafood dishes. Their carefully curated menu features classics like lobster rolls and crab cakes, but also introduces unique dishes like the ‘Scoobies’ – shrimp, crab, and scallop-stuffed hush puppies. Their takeout service is prompt and efficient, ensuring that your food stays fresh upon arrival.
Next, we move on to Bombay Darbar. Situated at 1521 E Las Olas Blvd, this Indian treasure trove is the ultimate destination for those looking for rich, authentic Indian flavors. Their Chicken Tikka Masala, simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce, and their Biryani, a fragrant rice dish packed with tender meat, are simply irresistible. Best part? Their takeout menu is just as extensive as their dine-in options!
If you’re in the mood for some Italian fare, D’Angelo Pizza at 4215 N Federal Hwy is your answer. Beyond the expected offerings of Neapolitan pizzas and pastas, D’Angelo’s also offers a range of Italian tapas, salads, and desserts. Their Tiramisu is a must-try – it’s the perfect takeaway dessert to enjoy at home.
Moving on to the vibrant flavors of Mexico, El Camino, located at 817 E Las Olas Blvd, is definitely worth considering. From tacos and enchiladas to their famous street corn, El Camino promises a taste of Mexico that is hard to resist. With their easy-to-navigate online ordering platform, getting takeout is a breeze.
Lastly, but by no means least, the Etaru Restaurant has been turning heads at 500 E Las Olas Blvd. Specializing in contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine, each of their dishes is a masterpiece that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Their Black Cod marinated in yuzu miso is a showstopper and a great takeout option.
No matter what you’re craving, these Fort Lauderdale eateries have got you covered! Make sure to try these places out and savor the flavorsome journey without leaving your home. Bon Appétit!
What Foods is Fort Lauderdale Known For?
If you find yourself in sunny Fort Lauderdale, Florida, you’re in for a gastronomical adventure. This city is known not only for its splendid beaches but also for its diverse culinary scene. One of the most celebrated delicacies in the city? Stone crab.
Head out to Billy’s Stone Crab, located at 400 North Ocean Drive, where they specialize in this delicious crustacean. When stone crab season hits between October and May, the catches from the Atlantic Ocean are brought into the restaurant daily. Once cooked, the crabs display a beautiful orange hue, their succulent meat paired perfectly with a side of Billy’s special mustard sauce. But don’t let the off-season deter you, Billy’s Stone Crab also boasts a menu filled with seafood delights such as oysters, shrimp, and Florida Lobster.
Not a seafood fan? Don’t worry, Fort Lauderdale has you covered. The city is also known for outstanding Cuban food. Lauded as one of the best Cuban restaurants in South Florida, 925 Nuevos Cubanos at 925 North Andrews Avenue is a must-visit. This family-owned restaurant serves traditional Cuban dishes with a twist. Their dish, Lechon Asado – succulent, slow-roasted pork served with a tangy Mojo sauce, will make your taste buds dance. To complete your Cuban dining experience, order a side of fried plantains and don’t forget to try their famous Cuban coffee.
If you’re a pizza enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to know that Fort Lauderdale serves up some of the best brick oven pizza. Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza at 2203 South Federal Highway crafts pizzas using the freshest ingredients and bakes them in an 800-degree coal-fired oven. This high heat and the coal’s unique flavoring result in a pizza with a crispy crust, oozing with melted mozzarella and topped with the most succulent produce and meats. Anthony’s “Well Done” pizzas are a hit among locals and tourists alike.
Finally, you cannot talk about food in Fort Lauderdale without mentioning the All-American burger. Located at 505 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard is BurgerFi, a favorite among locals. With their commitment to premium, all-natural Angus beef free from steroids, antibiotics, and hormones, a BurgerFi burger is one of the healthier options in town. Try their popular “Breakfast All Day Burger,” featuring a juicy Angus patty topped with American cheese, hickory-smoked bacon, maple syrup, fried egg, hash brown, grilled diced onions, and ketchup! It’s a whole breakfast feast in a bun.
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of Cuban cuisine, a pizza enthusiast, or a burger aficionado, Fort Lauderdale’s diverse food scene has something that will surely satisfy your cravings.
Eating Your Way Around Fort Lauderdale: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
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Start your trip with a visit to Coconuts, located at 429 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. This casual waterfront dining spot is perfect for breakfast and offers an extensive seafood menu. The seafood omelette is a must-try.
Indulge in some Italian cuisine for lunch at Casa D’Angelo situated at 1201 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. Their homemade pasta and Tiramisu are crowd favorites.
For dinner, head over to Foxtail, located at 330 Himmarshee St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312. They offer a modern American menu with a twist. Don’t miss out on their short rib pappardelle.
Explore the rooftop bar scene in Fort Lauderdale and enjoy some sushi at Tsukuro located at 225 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, FL 33316. The view of the Atlantic Ocean makes their fresh seafood even more delicious.
Experience authentic French cuisine for breakfast at Croissan’Time French Bakery located at 1201 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. Their almond croissants and coffee are perfect to start your day with.
For lunch, make your way to Boatyard located at 1555 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. This waterfront restaurant gives you a taste of the yachting lifestyle along with amazing seafood options. The conch chowder is a must-try.
End your food journey in Fort Lauderdale with a visit to Shooters Waterfront located at 3033 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308. Enjoy their Sunday brunch with a variety of options ranging from sushi to sliders. Their lobster roll is something you shouldn’t miss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are some of the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A1: Fort Lauderdale is known for having an eclectic mix of dining options. Some of the top restaurants include Valentino’s Italian Cuisine, Casa D’Angelo for delectable Tuscan food, Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille for seafood lovers, and El Camino for those who enjoy Mexican dishes. For excellent American fare, hit up Louie Bossi’s; and for French cuisine, check out La Bonne Crepe.
Q2: I’m a vegetarian. Any recommendations on where to eat in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A2: Absolutely! Green Bar & Kitchen is a fantastic vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurant, providing a wide variety of dishes. Sublime is another top spot that serves only vegan fare, boasting a diverse menu that even non-vegetarians will appreciate. You can also check out Myapapaya juicery + kitchen for some healthy and organic options.
Q3: Where can I find the best seafood in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A3: Seafood lovers are spoilt for choice in Fort Lauderdale. Coconuts is a popular spot, known for its fresh seafood and amazing waterfront views. Also, try Blue Moon Fish Co., where the seafood dishes are top-notch and often paired with mouthwatering sauces. Alternatively, 15th Street Fisheries offers a wide variety of seafood dishes and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Q4: I love steak. Where should I go in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A4: Steak 954 is a must-visit steakhouse located in the W Fort Lauderdale. For a more relaxed and familiar vibe, head over to LongHorn Steakhouse. Other notable mentions include Capital Grille and Chima Brazilian Steakhouse.
Q5: Are there good sushi restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A5: Indeed, there are! Funky Buddha Brewery is an excellent place for sushi lovers. Not only do they offer a variety of creative sushi rolls, but they also have delicious local beers. Other sushi spots to explore include S3 Restaurant and Coco Asian Bistro & Bar.
Q6: What are some of the top pizza places in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A6: The top-rated pizza places are Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Pizza City, both known for their thin-crust pizzas. For wood-fired neapolitan pizzas, check out The Mason Jar Cafe.
Q7: Are there any good breakfast spots in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A7: Yes, Egg & You Diner is a local favorite for breakfast. The Floridian is another excellent choice, serving breakfast all day long. For a fancy brunch option, you can check out Foxy Brown.
Q8: Any recommendations for dessert places in Fort Lauderdale, Florida?
A8: For scrumptious desserts, consider visiting Nanou French Bakery & Cafe for their pastries. Kilwins is another spot popular among locals and tourists alike for their ice cream and chocolates. If you’re into donuts, be sure to stop by Mojo Donuts & Fried Chicken.
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