Original Fat Cats

FANTASTIC 1st time visit on a week day and it was awesome. Original Philly was great w/ fries. Plenty of beers for all tastes. Decor was great. Awesome vibe! Loved the collection of skate decks + various stickers. Awesome hip hop playing during our visit. I would recommend you try this spot and leave a rating to help others.

This place is the locals bar in the bar district, they have live music most nights & weekends. I like this place because the whole front of the building is open to the sidewalk so it feels comfortable even when its crowded. Its an easy cheap place to meet up for a beer. I’m not much of a drinker, it’s not really my style to hang around in bars but its fun to catch a game with friends and not have to clean up. so here’s what you really need to know about this place is that the kitchen turns out some of the best grub (in category) you’re gonna eat in Broward County. So far everything on the menu has been pretty good, The Cheesesteak Eggrolls , were excellent, crispy crunchy beefy cheesy and just downright delicious. Now god forgive me for saying this in public because they All-ready run out- The Philly Style Roast Pork With Long Hots and Pork Au Jus is outstanding. Worthy of going back just for that sandwich. For the uninitiated a Philly Style roast pork sandwich is thin sliced or shaved roast pork tenderloin on an italian sub roll with provolone thats usually dipped in au jus but here is served with a side, the long hots which are roasted long hot peppersadd just the right punch to the soft roll and tender pork. Its sooo good ! I get mine with a little horsy sauce on the side Blam ! Extra deliciousness. So soooo good Its nothing fancy, totally a no frills bring your dog kinda place with a killer kitchen.

When I tell you… the BEST Philly hands-down that I’ve had; been in Florida for over 10 years. I’m not kidding, better than a lot of establishments that are known For Philly cheesesteak. The people that work during the day are a little more nicer to the urban community then the ones that work at night though. No shade But I’ll take a little prejudice for that Philly though. 10/10 highly recommend.

I had a Philly cheese steak here and it was amazing. It took forever to get an order in though and the bartenders were rude to me and my girlfriend. It's a fun location that gets super packed, it's impossible to move around when it's busy

I have been going to fat cats for over 17 years. On Friday July 25 2025 I went to fat cats after a show at revolution live. When I walked up to the door the doorman wouldn’t let me in and when I asked why he said it was because I was stumbling around. I have a titanium rod in my leg from my knee to my ankle, and screws in my knee and ankle as well. Of course I have a limp I’m disabled. So they wouldn’t let me in, but they let my extremely intoxicated friends I was with in. I was seriously offended. I will miss going here but I will never go here again. The door men are always way too extra.

I love this place, it is a fantastic dive bar. Food is very good, drink selection is wide and there is nightly live music. I do wish they would fix up the bathrooms a bit though, they are ducking disgusting.

Hard to rate a place on anything other than service.... arrived Wednesday April 16 1200 est. Bar had approx 10-12 people. Seemed lively. I was unable to enjoy as I waited about 8 minutes as bartender chatted with a buddy. We made eye contact but after 8-9 minutes I decided I'd rather spend money where I'm appreciated. No drink. No service. Nada.

What's up Googlers and YouTubers is your boy Henry I am back at it again with another one for you guys and man it's really sucks because i don't leave bad reviews it is not my character and honestly ever say anything bad about anyone's business because it is important to our society and to our city that we keep our shops open to serve the public. I've been doing this for about 8 years now for Google. Listen very carefully to what I am saying in this restaurant business/ bar business. You never ask for money when someone is ordering a drink, never ever, to any bartender out there! listen to me very carefully you never ever make this mistake, and if you are trying to think of the owner or the business establishment and trying to make a judgment call I understand but let's that be the owners decision mistake let the owner deal with that and the laws. I really like that that they had the arcade games there it brings in a real young spring break crowd and something to do while you're drinking and enjoying your social time. Guys, if you would like to review, you know what to do. Don't forget to Google, like, "As" follow subscribe, "and I'll catch you on the next one."

Best little dive bar in the area! Perfect spot to grab a drink after a great concert at the Performing Arts Center. Drinks were decent & service was prompt & welcoming. Make sure you go all the way to the back to grab a drink vs waiting by the front bar!

One of the oldest bars on Himmarshee Street which I have never been to until today. During our beer crawl we hesitantly stepped inside the rock and roll themed dimly lit bar with skateboard decks lining the walls with cryptic cartoon stickers throughout with an oddly familiar stench of bad decisions from the 80's. An empty raised live music stage at the front waiting for talent to erupt at 630pm tonight. We sat at the bar with a very few scattered customers and met with the bartender Josh. The first cold tap beer was flat and informed the bar back guy who agreed and notified Josh who said he thought I would not notice (this was a first). After spilling out the flat beer, Josh gave me another cold tap beer called Southern Tier Pum King Ale which was excellent. We spent about a half an hour here and went out to grab food. At 7pm we returned for the live music from Justin Enco who killed it singing classic rock covers while strumming his guitar and the bar was now packed. The wife absolutlely loved the tunes and even danced. This easily made up for the stale beer. The euro-punk themed bathroom was fully covered in colorful graffiti with a door that did not auto close or lock. One of my top three original bathrooms and is an easy conversation piece and great addition for the bar.

If you're a rock fan, this is definitely one of the best options. Both the music and the decor will get you in the mood. The drinks are reasonably priced and not too expensive. The bathrooms could have been cleaned better, but overall the place is great. The night we went, even though it was spring break, the service was quick.

Fat cats always a vibe. you can catch lots of local bands and cover bands play there every night. Each night has a different theme for their music. The drinks are plentiful and inexpensive. You can always get served no matter how busy it is though! They do make sure to check your ID when you walk in the door because in Florida we have a lot of underage kids who go out. Never have I had a bad time with fat cats! It's a true local bar.

I tried them for the first time at an event recently and the food was amazing! After a sample of their cheesesteak at the food and wine tasting, I decided to stop in. I ordered a Philly cheesesteak as well as lemon pepper wings with curly fries. I would not do the curly fries again just because they were a little bit oily but the cheesesteak was perfect!!!! The wings were cooked to perfection but if you order lemon pepper just know that the lemon may be really sour. I would definitely order the wings again but maybe in a different flavor. Overall the staff was kind, the food was hot and fresh, and the portions are pretty good. The theme of the bar is very dark and the bathroom is a little bit tight so keep that in mind and visiting.

A live rock and roll music bar with a full liquor bar and a huge variety of beers. The atmosphere reeked of the classic late night college age neon purple light bar. The guy playing music on the big stage mainly tunes from the 80's was excellent, although don't know if college kids knew the names of the songs. I had a cocktail during happy hour. Good time and interesting stickers and skateboard decor.

The Philly cheesesteak. My husband gets au jue sauce on the side. Guilty pleasure it's so disgustingly good. Oh, and their blue cheese sauce is freshly made and highly recommended. You wouldn't expect it, but the food is some of the best bar food ever.

The food is surprisingly great there. The Philly cheese steak and the burgers were great. The place has an old school bar vibe the staff seem to have a great culture between them. Great drink selections

This isn't your typical dive bar...the food is actually good! I ordered the French toast PB&J and I absolutely loved it! It was YUMMY. You can choose from strawberry or grape jelly. I went with strawberry jelly and omg I was in awe. It comes with a side of sweet potato waffle fries and marshmallow dipping sauce. I didn't get to try anything else because I was full from a late lunch but definitely coming back. They have multiple tv screens for sports events. They weren't playing the FSU game when we walked in but we asked the bartender and he was kind enough to play the game for us. They have some original cocktails, which are strong and delicious. They also have multiple craft beers available. The service was great! The kitchen is open until 3 AM!! So you can order food until late in the evening as well. They have a live band playing, which was pretty cool. I recommend you check this spot out if you're in the area.

Walked into here looking for cool place to kill some time before a late flight back to STL. What a find, this place is local spot that doesn't gig ya like Miami. We'll definitely try to stop by our next time thru.

This is a dive bar. The bartenders are gruff but attentive. The Philly cheesesteaks are excellent.

I love that they have live music and an even livelier crowd, the food is always wayyy better than expected, service is always readily available theyll even charge your phone for you if you need. Ive had the sampler the jalepeno poppers the curly fries and about 3 philly steak sandwiches on many different occasions and i must say every time the food is the perfect bite. 10/10 to the philly, jalepeno poppers, fries, tots, chicken sandwich. Ive yet to try everything else but im sure it all great. Go see for yourself!

I stopped in to pick up a Philly Cheesesteak with the Whiz of course and the Sweet Potato Fries. If you get takeout, you need to push your way in to get the bartender's attention. They have a busy happy hour and this is Friday.

Great local dive bar. Fabulous bartenders. Great service. Had the food last time which was awesome but just stopped in for a drink. Love the decor!

This place is a hidden gem. Looks like a dive and probably is one. The beer selection is amazing the bartenders are great. The food is typically pub style but also tasty. The jalapeño poppers are not breaded but wrapped in bacon. The chicken parm sandwich is the best I've ever had just slightly spicy and really nicely breaded. It's a rough and tumble kinda place but I feel safe in there no matter what. Please don't feed the bums or give them beer or cigarettes. Live music almost every night .Anyway you gotta get in there to see it to believe. Yelp sucks but original fat cats definitely does not so get yourself downtown and to ofc.

Great atmosphere Good live music And food is amazing have to try the pbj it is a hidden gem

This was my first time coming here. I got to the bar and saw what looked like a drink menu. So I naturally asked the server Brendo for a menu. He gave me a dirty look and flipped over the drink menu. I hadn't realized their food menu was so short as I never been here prior. So I asked him to add sub wiz to my Philly instead of provolone and once again he looked at me like I was crazy. I will admit the food was good although I feel it's a little overpriced for $13. It's not a very big Philly and you can get a Publix sandwich that's a little bigger and more filling for cheaper. However, I didn't take any stars for portion. For me it has to be a good experience and good food, not one or the other it has to be both. Although the food was good, I don't think I'd return given the experience I had.

A happy accident. Was looking for a place to grab a burger and a few beers before seeing Marshal Tucker at what we thought was Broward Center for Performing Arts. 4 Minutes away from the venue . Perfect we thought. Turns out Marshal Tucker was performing at Parker Playhouse. So glad we made a mistake, worked out great. We found a open spot in the middle of the bar. Started with a Nitro and wings. Both delicious. Only negative was only one bartender. Should definitely be 2 working on a Sat. night, even at 5pm. Once we got the bartender, he was great, letting us sample a couple of drafts. I then ordered a Blue Point lager draft, and my buddy and I split a Philly cheesesteak. Once again , delicious. Awesome music in the back round and tvs playing college football. Will definitely be going back next time I plan on going to Broward center, or Parker Playhouse, which is about 8 minutes away.

Fun, music, and great drinks. Nice bar in the strip mall area of bars and restaurants. Very packed, but a wonderful time was had.

This place is relatively small, it gets crowded but not overly packed, they featured a live band on the Friday night we were here, and once you find an open spot at the bar, getting served doesn't take long. Take a few steps back and look up, and you'll see an eclectic mix of "stuff" including a few small flying saucers that move up and down and a police car with flashing lights that "drove" around the full length above the bar constantly, all night long. The band on this night was great, the crowd were really into them, staff was friendly and imported bottled beer (Modelo) were $6 each. We'll be back.

Micah is gay! Micah is gay! Micah is gay! Micah is gay! Micah is gay! Micah is gay! Micah is gay! But he's the fucking best on Wednesdays!!!! . Come see him !! Immaculate service and definitely and gem!! Much love to the staff and food is grandiose

Greatest Dive Bar around, if not the world. Every item on the menu is off the charts great. Drinks are priced better than most places around and the happy hour is from 11:30am-7:00pm.

Unbelievably amazing find! Was in the area for a concert and lucked out by finding Fat Cats. Micah was one of the best bartenders we've ever encountered. Suggested the best food and drinks, which did not disappoint. The philly cheesesteak was one of the best I've ever had! The Cuban was delicious, as well as, the fried portobello slices. Very impressed, was inexpensive, and will be back when in the area!

Dive bar goodness. Order the French dip and tater tots and enjoy. They also do a mean grilled cheese! No frills, just right.

We came on a warm Friday night. It was early as everyone needs to go out early these days as bars have to close at midnight- so start your nights earlier people! It was fairly empty. The live band was playing some great music while we found seats at the bar. As I took my mask off, and sipped my drink, I felt like life was almost back to "normal" as this place. Dylan, the bartender (owner?) was quick with the drinks and some light conversation. We had just eaten but he showed me a menu and the food looks good. I made a mental note to go back and check it out on another night. You can sit inside or out. And theres even a pool table for those of you who like things like that. But for now, I sipped my drink, sang along with the band, and had a flashback to how much fun going out was before Covid crippled the hospitality industry. Fat Cats is a nice little bit of normal, even during these difficult times (and they are following all the rules!) PS- Go early. The crowd just gets going around the time the bar has to close. If everyone just started an hour earlier, it may help these establishments get through the next few months!

AMAZING!!!!!! probably one of the coolest bars i've ever been to in ft lauderdale. I visited a lot of different places here and this by far had the best vibes. I felt like I could hangout for hours and felt like home. I got the philly cheesesteak egg rolls. TO DIE FOR. plus the guys here are from New Jersey so they know what's up when it comes to philly cheesesteak. My drink was the watermelon marg. so refreshing and crisp. I have never had a watermelon marg and now I feel like I can't go back to regular. the guys were so nice. the people that hang here are low key too. I think my most favorite part about the experience was the music. I love old school hip hop / rap NY music. they killed it and it was a whole vibe. i'm going to be sad when I leave cause this place is definitely one of a kind. GO HERE. NOW!

I've been coming to fat cats for a long time. Their food is very good for dive bar food. Highly recommend the cheesesteak! Live performers are entertaining most nights... definitely depends on the vibe. But for the most part service is great, staff is friendly if you respect the bar, delicious/quality drunk food, drinks are reasonably priced (love their pbr deal), and there's live music most nights

Certainly a locals bar. It is a great place to catch live music every day of the week. The Philly cheesesteak is famous to the locals. The rest of the menu is also very good, but it certainly is bar food. Drinks are cheap, the people are good. We like to say that all roads lead to fat cats.

Coolest bar in Boca. Not even a close second. It's everything a good "dive" bar should be. Great music and food. Amazing backyard. Awesome bartenders and patrons. The kind of place where you have good conversations with all sorts of people. Can't wait to go back!

Best bartenders in Fort Lauderdale work here! They have great food late at night. Great industry hang out too. Fernet is behind the bar. Jalapeño poppers are my fav and mozzarella wontons.

It's an interesting place. Now that's coming from me. I'm a realist. Try and test all avenues. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. The food and service are responsive to the demand. All good here. Check it out!

I found this place on UberEats and had a discount code so said why not. Lemme say I've order MANY times but I've never been to the actual location but their food is absolutely amazing every single time. The Philly cheese steak and they make it like 3 different ways and all 3 are awesome they have the original Philly. Or the Philly sub whew yup all are glavored perfectly and the bread has been good Smash burger is my daughter favorite and it's flavorful and delicious The cheese steak egg rolls YUM and the sauce. All I can say is try them you won't regret and all their food heats up well the next day so take the leftovers home thank y'all for being on UberEats for anti social people such as myself

Small spot with live music and affordable drinks. The space has tons of standing room and a few pub tables on the side all the way towards the back for seating. Unless I was seeing things, there's two bars inside! My friends and I has to wait a while and felt we were being ignored, but once we were served and approached the other Barr render that was there before the new guy, he assured us he was just overwhelmed with orders. The band was setting up when we got there (10pm) but we left to take a gander. Not sure if it's too loud once the music starts, but since we'll def be back, I'll find out next time.

THIS PLACE IS A FUCKING NIGHTMARE! I've been coming to fat cats for years, and today I was spoken to and treated like less than human being. I can't even express the depth of my experience here today, and I'm beyond disappointed that as a local Fort Lauderdale person, I was treated like absolute shit by the bartenders and front door asshole. I'm never coming here again, EVER! And to the bartender with the long hair and red hat, you don't belong in the service industry and you deserve to get fired from this place. Fat cats, you've turned into an absolute nightmare and honestly, Fort Lauderdale would be a better place without you

Came from phx and picked this spot it was close to my hotel and Brandon really killed it great personality and all around a great guy! Check this place out for sure. Also great food got the smash burger!!

Honestly amazing food but the service is the worst I've ever had in my life. First they ignored us for 20 minutes. They were extremely rude. We basically ordered the entire menu and they didn't even give us the decency of smile.

Our mature palates required something unique. Got the recommendation to come here. I got the grilled cheese. And she got the grilled peanut butter and strawberry jelly sammich. And couldn't be more pleased. Best. Night. Ever. Come here. You won't be sorry. Ask for the happiest short-bearded gentlebarman Garcia.

5 out of 5 on the food. Was feeling hungry (bored) so I ordered the CheeseSteak Egg Rolls and wasn't sure what to expect but they're so good. Definitely Recommend Update.. even though the outside cools down the oil/juice tinside stays very hot so enjoy with caution

Before 2020, one of the Himmarshee Street regulars downtown told us that Original Fat Cat's had really good food. Hmmm, we thought. Original Fat Cat's is known for its decor, live bands, beer, and crowds. But not for its food...or so we thought. So years later, we took a look at the menu. And after taking a buddy out for his first late weekend night out on Himmarshee Street, we decided to visit. It was far too packed to go inside, so we ordered from the side entrance. Brando saw us ASAP, and took care of us! Thanks, man! Unlike many packed bars/grills or dive bars, we immediately got service! You know how it is. Go to these places, and the staff seems to see everyone, except you. Or they are all huddled in areas far from you. That was not the case at Original Fat Cat's. We ordered a Smashed Burger and big Prime Rib Sandwich. Both came with condiments. The burger came with curly fries. Talk about fast service and tasty food! And neither item broke the bank. Himmarshee Street is our favorite place to people watch, but also a great area with good food and drinks. If you are in the area, stop by Original Fat Cat's, and grab something to eat. You will not be disappointed!

If your looking for a dive bar, this is definitely it. I always find myself at least stopping for at least a drink or a shot because there's always a vibe going on in here. They also serve bar food so you get a too for one. They typically are showing multiple sport games so if your a sports fan you can definitely catch a game here.

If you know me, you know I love a local dive bar! This place has changed very little over the years, but the changes that have been made are for the better. They offer a full liquor bar and typical bar food. The atmosphere is relaxed, and definitely not fussy despite the location. The staff is great, the bartenders are fun and know a variety of libations to offer for a tasty evening. It is definitely a spot the locals know and love, but receive their fair share of tourists. Definitely a fun spot to add into your bar hopping plans.

Can't believe I hadn't written a review for Phat Cat's yet... so many years coming here be it starting my night or ending it while partying in Himmarshee. This is always a must when there. Yes, it's a dive bar but I love their casual, laid-back environment; live music, dim lights, strong cheap drinks, and never feels overcrowded. Plus they have a pool table and enough space for you to dance if the music moves you. staple This was one of my go-to places when I used to be in that area every weekend. It was a great place to use as a meet-up place, and to round-up the night before heading home. Now, being a bit older, and not partying so much, I still like going there to catch live bands and grab a drink. After all these years Fat Cats is still a staple in Himmarshee, a place that doesn't age, doesn't go out of style and can be fun for every generation.

Don't waste your time overpricing and garbage food....use to be good but sliding like the rest....

We stumbled in here after seeing a Philly on the new menu and decided to give it a shot for a late lunch. I was pleasantly surprised that it came out as tasty as it did. I wasn't expecting much for this party bar and for the price. At 10$ and knowing this is open late night this philly is a steal. Sweet potato fries also had a good texture and if you like it sweet they give a marshmallow dipping sauce. Overall 3.8/5

It was a dreary day but since we were going to the play "Come from Away" and tried to get lunch at 2 nearby places, that shall remain unnamed, we decided a drink would be better than nothing. What a great surprise to meet our friendly Bartender, Chris..who served us quickly and with a great smile...and suggested the mixed app platter and portobello fingers for a quick snack before showtime. I was so surprised that the food was great...mind blown actually...and it wasn't the Tito's. We 3 old Grizzly Ladies felt very comfortable outside sipping our cocktails and savoring each bite of our surprise lunch at Fat Cats! Who knew? Well, we know now! Thanks, Chris and BTW the Play, "Come From Away" was priceless!

Fat Cat's isn't necessarily a dive bar as much as a cool, no frills hang-out for locals to chill, knock back some drinks, and watch some good music. Having been a long-standing part of the Himmarshee district for more than a decade, Fat Cat's has its charm with its dark and dirty decor littered with stickers and graffiti, down-to-earth patrons and bartenders, and good vibes. Fat Cat's was also the place where I was able to start satisfying my ever-growing lust for American craft beer in the late 00s. Up until then, there was only a coupe of places that catered to the burgeoning craft beer scene. Fat Cat's was the first one I saw in the Fort Lauderdale area pushing American craft beers and fueling my interest to obsessive levels. Whether there's five or 50 people in the haunt, Fat Cat's is a fun place to go when you're hanging in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

The bartender Chris must be brand new and damn rude. Didn't mention a damn word but when it came to collecting the merchant copy of the receipt tried to snatch my copy out of my hand when I had his on the clipboard. When I tried to ask when he words was very rude asking where his copy is. I work in the business and this guy completely rude. I always leave extra especially when I know they share tips but next time I see this guy it's going to be 0. I'm sorry staff but ditch him. He's completely nasty and rude.

Great local dive bar vibes , band plays every so often. A must if you're in the area even if it's for 1 drink.

I am so extremely disappointed in this bar. I will never ever spend a dime here again. Came here to celebrate my bday and that was the biggest mistake I've made. From the doorman to the bartender, just a miserable staff who treats parton's like a criminal. Worst experience ever and I do not recommend coming here!!! A million other bars who will treat you with respect!!! DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME AT THIS BAR!!!!!