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Greater Fort Lauderdale offers one of the best and most diverse dining scenes of any U.S. city its size. There are more than 4,000 eateries in Broward offering everything from new American and South American to pan-Asian cuisines. Go beyond the basics, and you'll find an endless supply of hidden gems.
Traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist is served family-style at this bright-white restaurant, where the fish is beyond fresh and the grape leaves are stuffed to the brim. The vibrant setting is made complete with great service and a reasonably priced wine list. Popular dishes include branzino, lamb shoulder, and a collection of dips and spreads. Complimentary valet is offered.
Big portions of dripping barbecue are dispensed at this chill spot for eat-in or take-out. Dinners come with two sides from a list that includes baked beans, collards, and mac and cheese. For lunch, Tom's pork, beef, and catfish sandwiches are a shortcut to satisfaction. Leave room for sweet-potato pie or peach cobbler. Heading to a park or the beach? Tom Jenkins's family samplers have enough ribs, chicken, beef, and sides to feed six hungry people.
For a casual, almost funky, nautical experience near the beach, look no further than this raw bar featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. If you want to blend in, order a fish special with whale fries—thinly sliced potatoes that look like hot potato chips. (People come from near and far for these famous fries!) Those with smaller appetites can choose from salads and raw-bar favorites like steamed Ipswich clams.
Situated on 1¼ acres of the city's historic New River waterfront, this nautical-themed space with communal tables and two large bars is surrounded by five local pop-up restaurants and Rivertail, by award-winning chef José Mendin. Nightly events and activities make this the go-to spot for Sunday Funday and hanging out with friends.
In the heart of Las Olas at the Riverside Hotel, this seafood restaurant and bar keeps things simple with a small menu focused on a beautiful raw bar and ever-changing preparations of diverse catches from Florida, Hawaiian, and New England waters.
