Best Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale (2025)
Chef Timon Balloo’s intimate bistro blends South Florida produce with Thai, Chinese, and Caribbean accents; its Thai red curry fish was highlighted by The New York Times and praised by Miami Herald and Eater Miami. Neighborhood dining with serious craft.
Rino Cerbone channels family recipes and rock-and-roll energy into wood‑fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and razor clams. Recognized with a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide and covered by Time Out and Eater, it’s Flagler Village’s essential Italian.
A family‑run Spanish stalwart beloved for saffron‑rich paella, gambas al ajillo, and old‑world hospitality. Featured among the city’s best by national editors and long praised by local food critics.
It’s easy to drive by the unassuming Greek Islands and think to yourself, “Hey, there goes another regular ol’ Greek restaurant.” But this deceptively casual spot is special—and a Fort Lauderdale classic. This is mostly because they serve some of the best Greek food in all of South Florida. They don’t do trendy little tapas, but big dishes perfect for hungry friends who are ready to smell like garlic for the next couple hours. Start off with the pikilia, a platter of four excellent dips served with warm pita. The lamb chops are a good idea too, but there are no bad decisions here, especially if it involves feta cheese or olive oil. Just know that they don't take reservations and there's pretty much always a wait (especially on weekends) so try to come early.
A timeless oceanfront seafood house with Atlantic views, breezy decks, and classics like bouillabaisse and Key lime pie. A go‑to for celebratory sunset dinners and a taste of Old Florida service.
A humble room with serious regional Thai cooking—som tam, larb, boat noodles, and duck curry—with authentic spice levels. Newly recognized by the Michelin Guide and highlighted by Time Out.
Asian‑Latin comfort from longtime local restaurateurs: hand‑pinched dumplings, ramen, bulgogi bowls, and clever mashups. Open daily and celebrated by local tourism outlets for community‑minded events.
Since the ’90s, this locals’ favorite channels New Orleans with jambalaya, étouffée, certified Louisiana oysters, and seasonal crawfish boils. A spirited room that roots for the Saints and serves the bayou on a plate.
Family‑run counter‑service landmark famed for thick Angus burgers, wings, and house pies. Featured in Eater Miami’s best burgers in Broward and praised by local media for warm service and consistency.
Chef Angelo Elia’s flagship sets the city’s fine‑Italian benchmark: handmade pastas, pristine seafood, wood‑grilled meats, and one of South Florida’s classic Italian wine lists. A polished, locally anchored institution.
Chef Danny Kou brings Lima to the beach with sharp ceviches, tiraditos, and lomo saltado, plus Nikkei touches. A favorite of Peruvian expats and noted by local writers for bright, balanced flavors.
