Fort Lauderdale, Miami’s edgier sibling and a favored spring break destination, beckons visitors with its sparkling beaches and spacious vacation homes. But guess what else is making a buzz in this coastal city? The massive explosion of delicious eateries. Most attribute the best restaurants to West Palm Beach; however, Fort Lauderdale restaurants are full of endless opportunities to sample mouthwatering dishes crafted by both homegrown and internationally renowned chefs.
Follow the inviting aroma of freshly baked goods and coffee wafting out of sidewalk cafes. Indulge in a seafood platter al fresco in a chic oceanfront bistro, or opt for a sinful and satisfying loaded pizza. The choices are so abundant it can get overwhelming — that’s where we come in.
As seasoned experts in all things South Florida, we at Sunrise Vacation Homes offer stunning rentals for the perfect getaway and dish out insider tips for sightseeing and eating in the “Venice of America.” Here’s our curated list of the city’s top 10 best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale.
1. Lona Cocina & Tequileria
- Address: 321 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: lonarestaurant.com
- Favorite menu item: Housemade sangria
- Price point: $$
Colorful, lively, and often accompanied by live music from a Mariachi Band, Lona Cocina & Tequileria transcends an ordinary dining experience. Overlooking Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront, this eatery offers an elevated take on Mexican street food.
Frequented by both residents and visitors from afar, their extensive menu features Mexican favorites. Diners rave about their Lump Crab Guacamole, Nachos Guajillo, Al Pastor Tacos, and Lobster Quesadillas. For those inclined towards culinary experimentation, the plantain with cream and cheese dessert is a must-try. You can’t go wrong with their coconut cake if you prefer a tried-and-true option.
As the name suggests, Lona Conia & Tequileria is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most popular drinking dens — especially for tequila and mezcal. Try both during a boozy brunch and soak up the alcohol with hefty plates of Mexican delights.
2. Tropical Acres Steakhouse
- Address: 2500 Griffin Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: tropicalacres.com
- Favorite menu item: Creamed Spinach, Roast Prime Rib of Beef, Tiramisu
- Price point: $$
Travel back in time with a meal at Tropical Acres Steakhouse. This iconic, family-owned restaurant offers an extensive menu of classic South Florida steaks in a setting reminiscent of the 1950s, their origin years.
Perfectly crafted classics like Roast Prime Rib of Beer, Filet Mignon, and fresh lobster adorn the menu. Tropical Acres Steakhouse comes up with a special menu during special events and festivities. Keep in mind that for those seeking vegetarian options, the choices may be limited.
3. The Katherine Restaurant
- Address: 723 E Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: thekatherinerestaurant.com
- Favorite menu item: Clam Chowder Fries, Tuna Crispy Rice, Short Rib Orecchiette
- Price point: $$
Ever since its doors swung open, Chef Timon Balloo’s small but focused menu at The Katherine Restaurant has been a magnet for experimental diners. Dishes like the Faroe Island Salmon Crudo and Short Rib Orecchiette represent the best of New American cuisine and are consistent crowd-pleasers in this sleek eatery.
Their irresistibly crispy yet never-soggy clam chowder fries further solidify their culinary prowess. This, coupled with professional waitstaff and a friendly atmosphere, has made it a go-to restaurant in Fort Lauderdale.
4. Larb Thai-Isan
- Address: 6234 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: larbthaiisan.com
- Favorite menu item: Khao Soy, Papaya Salad, Thai Curry, Mango Sticky Rice
- Price point: $$
Come to Larb Thai-Isan not for the ambiance — which is casual yet friendly — but to savor plates infused with bold flavors from Northeastern Thailand. This means authentic papaya salad, noodle dishes like Khao Soi, Thai Green Curry with varying spice options, and Mango Sticky Rice that melts in your mouth to finish it off.
For vegetarians, the chefs are happy to swap chicken for tofu and skip fish sauce in your meal. Its location on Federal Highway makes it easily accessible, no matter where you are in the city.
5. Anthony’s Runway 84
- Address: 330 W State Rd 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: runway84.com
- Favorite menu item: Baked clams
- Price point: $$$
Previously aviation-themed, the recently revamped art deco interior of Anthony’s Runway 84 is its biggest draw, followed closely by their spectacular Italian-American fare. Featuring a moody, dimly-lit ambiance complete with chandeliers, it perfectly emulates the effect of a classy and secret underground social club in New York. In other words, the vibes here are unrivaled.
Sit on a plush chair facing the night’s live music performance, or book a booth for a more intimate experience. Calorie counting is forbidden when relishing Runway 84’s veal with vodka sauce, chicken parmesan, and pasta drenched in a spicy, creamy sauce. For a lighter meal option, get their fresh Caesar salad for an appetizer, but don’t skip on the heavenly Tiramisu for dessert. Anthony’s Runway 84 has an extensive wine list to pair with your meal.
6. Burlock Coast
- Address: 1 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: burlockcoast.com
- Favorite menu item: French Toast, Lobster Pasta, Key Lime Pie, Mango Crostini
- Price point: $$$
Set inside the Ritz Carlton, Burlock Coast with its waterfront views is a paradise for lovers of both seafood and fine dining. With an ambiance that oozes sophistication and understated elegance, it presents a perfect opportunity for a memorable brunch or dinner with a special someone.
The Catch of the Day, served with a side of saffron risotto or fresh oysters, is a delicious and popular choice. Complement your meal with a selection from Burlock Coast’s rum-centric cocktail menu.
For a sweet finale, indulge in a shared order of Mango Crostini topped with creamy vanilla ice cream.
7. Chima Steakhouse
- Address: 2400 E Las Olas Blvd Suite A, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: chimasteakhouse.com
- Favorite menu item: New Zealand lamb chops
- Price point: $$$
As you enter Chima Steakhouse, you’re welcomed by a gorgeous courtyard and welcoming staff, setting the tone for the rest of your lovely evening ahead. Drawing from the culinary traditions of Brazilian cowboys, this chic restaurant offers a lavish buffet with an array of all-you-can-eat options, from gourmet steaks to cheeses, pork, salads, and beyond.
Given its location on the busy Las Olas Boulevard, it’s a perfect stop for dinner after shopping in the boutique-lined street.
8. Casa Sensei
- Address: 1200 E Las Olas Blvd STE 101, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: casasensei.com
- Favorite menu item: Charred Octopus, Korean Steak Chimichurri, Lobster Guacamole, Sushi Rolls
- Price point: $$
Effortlessly fusing Latin and Asian flavors, Casa Sensei emerges with tasty dishes found nowhere else. Start with devilishly delicious lobster guacamole and move on to blue crab Rangoon or charred octopus. For dessert, devour a slice of coconut cake.
Casa Sensei is a photogenic, light-filled space with beautiful tables offering a view of the canals. Snack on Kimchi popcorn while taking in the vistas. Alternatively, book a Riverfront Gondola cruise and enjoy your meal aboard.
9. Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar
- Address: 1313 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: roccostacos.com
- Favorite menu item: Chicken quesadillas
- Price point: $$
Calling all Mexican food lovers! Rocco’s Taco & Tequila Bar takes your tasty buds on a journey straight to Mexico. The vibe isn’t one of romance or luxury but instead boasts an unfussy charm, perfect for catching up with friends or relishing big Mexican plates with family.
Your options at Rocco’s include typical Mexican fare like burritos, chips and guac, and chicken quesadillas. And, their Taco-Tuesday offers all-you-can-eat tacos — tacos al pastor and margaritas, anyone? Speaking of alcohol, take your pick of an impressive selection of 400 tequilas. Alternatively, their yummy ice-cold margaritas pair seamlessly with every item on the menu.
10. Shooters Waterfront
- Address: 3033 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: shooterswaterfront.com
- Favorite menu item: Fresh Oysters, Shooters Crispy Calamari, Shrimp Cocktail
- Price point: $$
If your time in Fort Lauderdale allows for just one meal, don’t sleep on Shooters Waterfront. Situated along Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway, Shooters Waterfront is incredible for Seafood and American fare. Aesthetics, flavors, and views galore!
Shooters have evolved from a popular student hangout to a swanky eatery, attracting an audience with a refined taste for food and ambiance. Start with a Jumbo Crab Cake before delighting in a creamy baked seafood pasta. And if you catch a cold breeze in the evening? Warm up on the patio next to the inviting fire pit.
11. Milk Money Bar & Kitchen
- Address: 815 NE 13th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Website: milkmoneybar.com
- Favorite menu item: Belgian Waffles, Chicken Rolls, Avocado Toast, Mimosas
- Price point: $$
Milk Money Bar & Kitchen rocks a trendy vibe that matches its name, dishing out American classics in a hip, industrial space. The grub? It’s all about fresh, bold flavors that’ll bring you back for more. Start your day with classics like eggs or chicken rolls, and don’t skimp on the bottomless mimosas for a seriously boozy time!
An extensive array of vegan and vegetarian choices guarantees that everyone leaves Milk Money with a full belly.
Savor Every Taste in Fort Lauderdale with Sunrise Vacations!
Choosing a restaurant from this enticing list might be challenging, but booking your Fort Lauderdale accommodation is a breeze. Snag Sunrise Vacations’s luxurious Sands home for your stay. Its chic furnishings and prime location make it the perfect launchpad for exploring the city. And let’s be honest, after a fantastic meal, there’s nothing like sinking into a soothing hot tub to unwind. Book your Fort Lauderdale vacation home today!