Fort Lauderdale is right on the coastline and is full of flavorful seafood cuisine. However, what if you want a bigger selection of dishes to choose from? Luckily, we’ve taken the time to look for the most popular local spots.
You can’t always rely on just picking a random restaurant, as the atmosphere and food may be subpar. So, we ensure that all of our choices are excellent picks with local favorite spots and hidden gems. We also include some long-standing restaurants operating for more than twenty years.
Tinta
$$ | (954) 245-3063 | WEBSITE
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If you’re in the mood for breakfast that will hit the spot, then be sure to try Tinta. It’s a fancier establishment that is always packed. So, you’ll need to call ahead of time to make a reservation. Otherwise, you may end up waiting for an hour or more during breakfast hours.
Their cuisine is classic breakfast foods with a Mexican twist. Diners recommend the smothered burrito, Huevos Rancheros, and any of their avocado toast dishes.
If you’re looking for a morning drink, Tinta has plenty of delicious breakfast cocktails, including bloody maria, espresso delights, and beachside bellinis.
Cafe Seville
$$$ | (954) 565-1148 | WEBSITE
Cafe Seville is an up-class Spanish restaurant that also serves seafood and features a wine bar. We highly recommend setting up a reservation because they have an average wait time of 40 minutes. So, calling ahead of time can ensure that you get a good seat with enough setting for your group.
For their menu, some favorites include the Seafood Paella, Escargot, and Gazpacho.
If you’re not into seafood, they also have a huge menu that includes classic Spanish dishes such as Pollo Buena Vista, Ternera El Cid, and Filete Seville. We also recommend trying their desserts as their Tres Leches Cake is everyone’s favorite.
Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill
$ | (954) 768-8990 | WEBSITE
If you’re in the mood for classic American food, then you may want to try Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill. They provide a classic American dinner atmosphere with excellent American staples. Most of their dishes are also affordable and are generous portions.
Some of their popular dishes include their Certified Angus Beef Brie Burger with Bacon and Fried Onions and their Grilled Mahi-Mahi Sandwich.
Their stuffed burgers are also to die for, such as their Certified Angus Beef Crumbled Blue Cheese Stuffed Burger. You also don’t want to pass up their delicious sides or desserts.
La Dolce Vita
$$ | (954) 565-5707 | WEBSITE
La Dolce Vita is the perfect spot if you’re looking for traditional Italian cuisine in Fort Lauderdale. Their menu is extensive, and each dish is crafted to bring you classic Italian flavors that are both fresh and delicious. It’s the perfect date-night restaurant if you’re looking to enjoy traditional food and have a chat.
Locals tend to enjoy the Dolce Vita Salads, Veal Chop, and the Short Rib Ravioli. However, they also have more traditional dishes, such as Pancetta, Chitarrina Seppie E Pomo Morbidi, and Vitello in Crosta Di Parmigiano.
No matter what you choose, the flavors of each dish are perfect. We also highly recommend that you try their homemade desserts that are baked in-house!
Fresh First
$ | (954) 763-3344 | WEBSITE
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The Fresh First is your classic food sensitivity brunch spot. They include items that are gluten-free and also vegan options. If you’re looking for healthy food, you shouldn’t go wrong with their healthy menu, which has a wide array of options.
Some of their most popular dishes include Eggs Benedict, Sweet Potato Burger, and Turkey Bacon. They also have a delicious Key West Tofu Scramble, Quinoa Bowl, and a Raw Lentil Burger. Overall, we’d definitely recommend them if you’re looking for an early breakfast or lunch hangout spot.
Chima Steakhouse
$$$ | (954)-712-0580 | WEBSITE
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Chima Steakhouse is a Brazilian steakhouse that focuses on providing classic grilled foods. Their menu features a wide array of choices, including kebabs, steaks, and salads. They also cater to gluten-free eaters and have an extensive menu for them.
Locals often say that lamb chops are their favorite. However, other recommended dishes include the filet mignon, smoked salmon, and flank steak. You won’t want to skip their dessert menu, as many people say that their chocolate lava cake and fried bananas are to die for.
Zuckerello’s
$$ | (954) 776-4282 | WEBSITE
Zuckerello’s is an Italian and Sicilian cuisine restaurant that has dishes that are flavorful and rich. They are open from 4-10 pm and are the perfect dinner place for affordable and fresh Italian food. Locals tend to recommend making reservations, as they can be pretty busy during a dinnertime rush.
Some of the local favorites include the Garlic Rolls, Crab Ravioli and Chicken Zuckerello. TThe Lamb Shank, Fried Calamari, and Caesar Salad are also worth mentioning. The company has been open for 32 years and understands what makes classic Italian food so great.
Lona Cocina Tequileria
$$ | (954) 245-3069 | WEBSITE
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If you’re looking for a good beachside Mexican place, then you shouldn’t go wrong with Lona Cocina Tequileria. Diners list that they love utilizing their outdoor seating, as it overlooks the ocean. However, it should be noted that the restaurant is always packed, especially at dinner and late at night.
Some of their most popular dishes include the Lobster Quesadilla, Baja Fish Tacos, and Crab Enchiladas.
Aside from that, they have a large variety of cocktails and spirits, which can definitely make a great night out with friends. Some of their most popular drinks include their Guavalajara margaritas, Horchata cocktail, and Lona White Sangria.
Canyon Southwest Cafe
$$ | (754) 779-7199 | WEBSITE
Canyon is a unique restaurant providing both American and Latin American cuisine. They’re known for their healthy and high-class foods such as Tuna Tartare, Beet and Goat Cheese Salad, and Filet Mignon. However, locals tend to recommend the Pork Risotto, Seared Tuna, and Smoked Salmon Toast.
If you’re looking for an open bar atmosphere, then you’ll enjoy their vintage selections of tequila and mezcal. We highly recommend heading to their restaurant when they hold a special event, as they perfectly complement their open bar and lively atmosphere.
Luigi’s Coal Oven Pizza
$ | (954) 522-8888 | WEBSITE
Luigi’s is your classic Italian pizza joint, with fresh coal oven-made pizzas. If you’re looking for flavorful pizzas loaded with toppings and cheese, then you’ll definitely want to give them a try. Locals also love that they have a few different types of items on the menu and that the joint offers outdoor seating.
Some favorites of the restaurant include their classic Margherita Pizza, Truffle Pizza, and Tomato Pie. Other worthy mentions are Luigi’s salads, as they are cool, refreshing, and are a generous portion. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, salad, pasta, or wings, Luigi’s has got you covered.
Golden Lyon Vintage Pub
$$ | (954) 467-0671 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a fancy bar with a nice atmosphere, then you may want to give The Golden Lyon a try. They have excellent brunch, lunch, and dinner menus, as well as late-night dining. There is also an included Oyster bar, but it can be busy, which is why you should always call ahead of time.
Some of the best menu items for brunch include soups, hamburgers, and lobster rolls. Aside from that, their daytime menu includes hand-crafted pizzas, pub plates, and sandwiches. They also include a Happy Hour Menu that runs from 5-7 pm and a Cocktail Menu.
Rendezvous Bar & Grill
$$ | (954) 797-0054 | WEBSITE
Rendezvous is a local sports bar that provides fresh seafood dishes. If you’re looking for a good atmosphere to take your friends or family while also watching the game, then you should give Rendezvous a try. Even though they’re a seafood joint, they have a little bit of everything for everyone.
Locals swear by their Chilean Sea Bass, Blackened Mahi Mahi, and Crab Cakes. Non-seafood entrees include French Onion Soup, Risotto, and Cajun Chicken Pasta. We also highly recommend trying some of the revolving tap and alcoholic beverages.
Boathouse at the Riverside
$ | (954) 377-5494 | WEBSITE
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We couldn’t leave our list without a decent Mediterranean and Tapas Bar. The Boathouse at Riverside is your perfect go-to place for classic Greek-style dishes, including a large variety of drinks. Locals love sitting outdoors and overlooking the ocean.
The popular dishes include the Boathouse Crab Cakes, Greek Salad, and Cilantro Risotto. Others also recommend the Crows Nest Chicken, Seared Ahi Tuna Tataki, and Key West Fritters. They also have a large appetizer menu which is perfect for sharing if you want to grab a few drinks and snacks with friends.
Wild Sea Las Olas
$$$ | (954) 467-2555 | WEBSITE
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If you’re looking for a high-scale place for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, then Wild Sea Las Olas is perfect. Their main cuisine is seafood, but they provide many other types of breakfast and brunch favorites.
For breakfast, some of the local’s favorite dishes include their Egg BLT on Brioche, Grandma’s Apple Pie Pancakes, and their Smoked Atlantic Salmon Platter.
Their brunch menu includes specialties such as their Honey French Toast, The Big Greek Skillet, and the Lobster Roll. For dinner, many people enjoy their East Coast Oysters, Grilled Octopus, and Baked Oysters.
The Indian Harbor
$$ | (754) 200-4891 | WEBSITE
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We can’t skimp on classic Indian food, so if you’re looking for kebabs and buffet-style foods, then look no further.
The Indian Harbor is a local favorite and includes traditional style Indian cuisine, Asian, seafood, and vegan and vegetarian options. They have an extensive menu with a large selection, ensuring that anyone can find something they’ll like.
The Indian Harbor’s most popular dishes include their Tikka Masala, Tandoori Chicken, and Biryani. However, vegetarians can enjoy Chana Masala, Palak Paneer, and Mushroom Mutter Masala. If you can’t handle spicy food, all of their dishes can be customized to ensure that you enjoy a spice level that works for you.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale may be on the ocean, but there is a large selection of different types of cuisine. With so many late-night options, it can be difficult to settle on a place to dine at. So, we hope that our list has helped you determine a few new places to try.
Besides that, we worked to provide a wide selection of cuisines and food options, including vegan and vegetarian.
We highly recommend you try any restaurants located on the ocean strip, as these offer outside dining that is super relaxing. All of these places are perfect for groups and are all packed with flavorful dishes.
Hayden has been a digital director for years. He has five years of experience editing and writing about food, restaurant, and recipe review content. At Birch Restaurant, he’s in charge of scouting, showing up unannounced in different restaurants, and writing a thorough food guide!
