Fort Lauderdale has a vibrant and eclectic food scene that rivals the best of South Florida. From high-end steakhouses to hole-in-the-wall taco joints, this guide by Fort Lauderdale real estate agent Gilles Rais offers hungry travelers an insightful look at some of the top restaurants. The city showcases a diversity of flavors and dining experiences. Foodies rejoice – a moveable feast awaits you in this culinary tour of Lauderdale hot spots. Here are some of the must-try eateries to check out when visiting the scenic seaside city:
Best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale: Authentic ethnic flavors
From Mexican and Middle Eastern to Indian and Italian, Fort Lauderdale delivers authentic ethnic cuisine. For delicious tacos in a funky environment, head to Lona Cocina Tequileria, where traditional street flavors meet modern interpretations like Baja fish or brisket barbacoa tacos. Try Tarpon River Brewing for small plates that fuse Latin and American comfort foods, like arepas loaded with ropa vieja and crisp yucca fries.
Best bites for Breakfast & Brunch
No travel guide is complete without the best spots for breakfast and brunch. Start your mornings at Egg & Dart, where light pours into the airy, plant-filled space. Can’t-miss menu items include fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes and “perfect eggs” Benedict with house-made English muffins. Snag a table at Hive by the Sea for a trendier brunch vibe. Their French toast croissant with Nutella butter and berries elicits rave reviews.
Where the locals eat: Las Olas Boulevard
To taste where Fort Lauderdale locals dine out, spend an evening on Las Olas Boulevard. Deemed the “Rodeo Drive” of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas offers chic boutiques, galleries, and globally-inspired restaurants block after block. For Italian, try the house-made pasta and wood-fired pizzas at Casa D’Angelo. Seafood lovers will flock to Ocean2000 for sustainable catches and a glamorous atmosphere. The elegant, modern setting of Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille provides the perfect backdrop for pristine raw bar selections alongside fresh local fish. From happy hour to a late-night bite, Las Olas Boulevard promises culinary experiences the locals love to rave about.
Buying a home in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, known for its warm weather and vibrant culture, is an attractive location for homebuyers. The housing market offers everything from high-rise condominiums along the ocean to single-family homes inland. When searching for your dream home, be prepared for competition from other buyers in the Fort Lauderdale area. Consider factors like commute times, flood zones, homeowner association rules, and property taxes as you weigh your options. The rewards of home ownership in this sunny, seaside city are plentiful if you find the right fit.
Things to do in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale has miles of beaches, providing ample opportunities for sun-kissed fun. Relax on the sand, take a surfing lesson, or go snorkeling to experience the area’s marine life up close. The Riverwalk along the New River is excellent for jogging or cycling. Tour the historic Stranahan House museum or the Museum of Discovery and Science and its interactive exhibits. Enjoy fresh seafood along the Intracoastal Waterway, or check out the shops and dining on Las Olas Boulevard. Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone.