Welcome to my Fort Lauderdale Guidebook, your ultimate guide to discovering the most delicious and diverse dining experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor, a dedicated foodie, or a local looking to try something new, this book will lead you through a mouthwatering journey of must-visit eateries, hidden gems, and unforgettable flavors.
A classic waterfront seafood spot inside Lauderdale Marina, offering fresh local fish and shellfish, great views of the Intracoastal Waterway, and live music on the docks. Perfect for dinner with a boat-watching vibe or casual lunch downstairs
Traditional Brazilian rodízio experience: gauchos roam the dining room serving skewers of fire-grilled meats (beef, lamb, chicken, fish), paired with a gourmet salad bar. Great for meat lovers and celebratory dinners
Located on Las Olas Boulevard, YOLO mixes upscale dining with lively nightlife. By day, it serves contemporary American dishes like sushi, steaks, flatbreads, and seafood. As night falls, it morphs into a hotspot with DJs, cocktails, and its adjacent lounge bar for after-dinner drinks and dancing. Great for brunch, dinner, or a night out.
Stylish Pan-Asian + Latin-fusion restaurant with sushi bar, inventive cocktails, and a modern waterfront / outdoor dining atmosphere. Known for its energetic vibe and creative dishes blending Asian and Latin flavors.
A lively Mexican restaurant on Las Olas Blvd, famous for handcrafted margaritas, tacos, street corn, guacamole, and a fun, casual atmosphere — great for late nights and social dinners.
Beachside sushi joint blending Japanese and Korean flavors. Known for creative dishes like kimchi fried rice, fusion tacos with short rib, and high-quality sushi — ideal after a day at the beach.
A modern, laid-back spot offering seafood, oysters, and coastal-inspired dishes — perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner along Las Olas. Nice for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Fogo de Chão brings an authentic Brazilian churrasco experience to downtown Fort Lauderdale. Skilled gaucho chefs carve fire-roasted meats tableside, while guests enjoy an abundant Market Table of fresh salads, cheeses, and seasonal dishes. The modern setting, attentive service, and impressive wine and cocktail list make it ideal for celebratory dinners, groups, or an upscale night out.
American-style bar & grill near the water, with a casual vibe, good comfort food, and a relaxed setting. Ideal for casual dinners or drinks after a day of sightseeing.
A laid-back, oceanfront / intracoastal restaurant with seafood, cocktails, and a breezy vibe. Good for families, friends or even pets — great for lunch or dinner in a casual setting near the water.
Upscale seafood and coastal cuisine in an elegant setting — a good pick for a refined dinner or special occasion with sophisticated ambiance and high-quality dishes.
Vibrant waterfront restaurant with a lively nightlife vibe — ideal for dinner with friends, drinks, and boating — often featuring live music and dock access for boats.
The House on the River offers elegant waterfront dining in a beautifully restored historic home along the New River. Its menu features elevated American cuisine, fresh seafood, and handcrafted cocktails served in a charming indoor–outdoor setting. With lush gardens, romantic ambiance, and sweeping river views, it’s ideal for special occasions, sunset dinners, or a refined night out in Fort Lauderdale.
High-end steakhouse, great for special occasions, fine cuts of meat, elegant ambience, and a polished dining experience — a go-to for a classic steak dinner in Fort Lauderdale.
Java & Jam is a bright, modern café on Las Olas Boulevard known for its all-day brunch, craft coffee, and warm neighborhood feel. Guests enjoy fresh pastries, hearty breakfast plates, and creative lunch options made from quality ingredients. With its relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and stylish design, it’s a perfect spot for morning meetings, casual bites, or a laid-back start to the day.
Trendy, social dining venue popular for its riverside location, casual communal tables, drinks, and a fun vibe — good for drinks + bites, especially if you like people-watching and waterfront energy.
A refined Japanese restaurant with sushi and high-quality Japanese dishes — ideal for a stylish dinner out. Good option if you want something more sophisticated and different than typical American fare.
A lively Italian spot on Las Olas known for handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a great courtyard atmosphere — perfect for group dinners or laid-back, flavorful meals.
A local favorite for seafood lovers looking for a casual, no-frills spot with good oysters and fresh catches — great for a relaxed meal without the fanfare