The Whale's Rib

We come here very often. It is one of our favorite spots. Today I had the grouper fingers. They were delicious and so much food I could not finish. My wife had the Tuna and she loved it. I love the chips and the yellow mustard house sauce they have. Its great on everything! Whales Rib never disapoints! We love this place.

Fun night, great atmosphere! Food was delicious! Best grouper I have ever had! Frozen margaritas were very refreshing!

This place has great food. The fried grouper fis sandwich was FABULOUS. It was seasoned nicely, a big piece of fish, and the bun was soft. What a great sandwich. The fried clams..delicious. Their potato chips are thin and seasoned just right. You get a lot of them, so eat up! This place is a hidden gem for good food! I'll definitely go again!

Seemed nice and priced right then turned out not great. Waited a long time for Takeout Order . Disappointed. Mahi very "fishy." Definitely not fresh! Mahi should never taste fishy ! It was as fishy as old trout. You're definitely was MSG in the food because I am allergic to MSG and I started to have a mild familiar reaction. Bread was dark like German bread ok ...Asked for butter and tartar . wasn't in the bag....then as I decided to risk eating it ....Broccoli had spoiled mold ! Butter as a melted tasteless tub of grease next to the fish I asked for butter on the side, real butter Idk....they acted like I was asking for too much. I was over charged told they'd throw in a side charged for it and rotten. Obviously chose the wrong restaurant kicking myself for not going next door.... this was a rare one time occasion .....(rarely if at all) treat myself) .. waitress disappeared and seemed a bit tipsy not to happy about this mess .Miss the old days of fresh made. Pray I don't get food poisoning sick! Small are the chance of getting refund...I bet tomorrow I will call and complain and ask for a refund. Moment of treating myself to a sandwich was kind of special. Yes my stomach not feeling too hot after a few bites ...don't recommend this place at all ...go elsewhere until they clean up the kitchen.

For those who like fresh and well-prepared seafood, I recommend it here. My husband loves oysters and I love mussels, especially when made in tomato sauce (also fresh tomatoes). In two days I tried three places and without a doubt this was the best seafood and oysters I ate. The apparently old place, with a different decoration, scattered car plates from different places on the walls, but very cozy and the food is great,

I've been here so many times, and we always make it a point to stop by! The drinks are absolutely amazing and they keep things fresh by changing them up regularly. I’m a huge fan of their Bloody Mary—it's just perfect! And let me tell you, their chicken wings are fantastic too!

The service provided was excellent, beginning from the moment of arrival in the parking area. The server was exceptionally friendly and offered a helpful lunch recommendation. Furthermore, the wrap was quite delicious.

Old school local beach bar and restaurant. Nothing fancy, but has good typical bar food. It’s a small spot, so you might have to wait for a table or spot at the bar during peak times. If they have them try the house made chips/fries. I get them with my cheeseburger, they’re really good.

Went tonight after seeing all the good recommendations. I ordered a shrimp poor boy, my parents ordered coconut shrimp and crab cakes, while my wife got the Polynesian chicken sandwich. Everything was very good and we ordered a big bowl of "Whale Chips". They were homemade potato chips with a side of some kind of honey mustard. It was very good but totally filled me up before dinner came out, lol. Good little bar/pub type atmosphere. The service was good and the server was pretty good. Recommended!

Came here over the weekend after hearing that it was featured on Diners, Drive In and Dives and it definitely did not disappoint! First off our server was so nice and super attentive. We felt so welcomed and it was such a great start to an ever better dinner. The restaurant itself is also nice and cozy. We decided to order a round of the homemade whale fries and they were delicious! And the portion was huge! Definitely order them either as an appetizer or as a side because they are so good! Some of our table ordered the lobster bisque and they all raved about it. For my entree I went with the blackened dolphin sandwich and I can honestly say it was one of the best mahi sandwiches I've ever had. It was fresh, flavorful, and BIG! I also got a baked potato as a side and it was perfect. Others at the table ordered the famous Dolphin key west sandwich that was featured on the show and they could not stop talking about how delicious and different it was. I cannot say enough good things about the Whales Rib. If you're in Deerfield and wondering where to eat, definitely come here!

Finally writing a review after years of coming to Whale's Rib, because they deserve the love! Popped in over Memorial Day Weekend and despite the crowds, the wait was surprisingly short...maybe 15 minutes tops. Not bad at all for a holiday weekend. We feasted like we meant it. Standouts were definitely the escargot and steamed clams, absolutely fav's on the menu. Seriously, don't sleep on the escargot, it's buttery, garlicky perfection! MUST HAVE! I went with the blackened dolphin for my main. It was a little overcooked this time around, but still tasty and full of flavor. Nothing a little lemon and some dipping sauce couldn't fix. Whale's Rib has been a go-to spot for years, and it never disappoints. Solid seafood, laid-back beachy vibe, and always a few great daily specials. If you know, you know.

Very popular spot in Deerfield bch Dolphin fingers and home maid potato chips yummy.very good food.

This is your Deerfield Beach stop for seafood! Everything is fresh and prepared quickly. We split the fried rock shrimp, each had a bowl of lobster bisque, and then split the blackened wahoo sandwich. The rock shrimp was served with spicy mayo with a light batter, the bisque was creamy with some lobster chunks, and the sandwich was fresh and had a great sauce too. A local gem, don't miss it!

DDD brought me here! I had to try the whale fries and whale sauce. I loved the sauce and the chips were good, too. Some were really crispy and some were really soggy but I honestly liked having the variety! I got a dolphin (mahi mahi) wrap and while I thought the fish was really good, the wrap was missing something. They brought tartar sauce to the table, but I actually opted to use whale sauce on the wrap which helped give it a little something extra. My only issue with the ambiance is the music was super loud. Otherwise, I loved all the license plate decor and the whole vibe of the place!

Stopped in for dinner while on a business trip in Florida. Sat outside and people watched the tourists and the karaoke from the bar across the street. I am vegan and had my sandwich come out with mayo on it but the staff was super quick to fix it for me. The potato chips (whale fries) were house made and delicious.

Our first time at the Whale's Rib was a positive experience. We were very lucky to have found a spot in their tiny parking lot! Hubby and I sat at the bar. It seemed like it was filled with regulars, but they were all friendly. The bar staff, especially Amanda, were excellent and very helpful. We started with the clams casino which was good, but had too much bacon for my taste. We both ordered side caesars which were tasty and fresh. I had the Dolphin Key West sandwich and it was the best mahi sammich I've ever had. I can't wait to either have that again or try the Key West Reuben. My husband ordered the Dolphin stuffed with crabmeat and Ritz crackers with a baked potato on the side. He enjoyed his meal. Overall a great night out and I would definitely return and recommend.

2 words... Whale Fries!! Sooo good, the whale sauce is off the hook and the Key West Turkey sandwich is so good!

The food was really good. The atmosphere was warm inviting and awesome. The service was really fast. My friend and I famous whale fries with whale juice aïoli we also had calamari they were both super delicious. I would go back there again. Ps i'd like how there's a mural of Guy Fieri diners, drive-ins, and dives on the wall

Whales Rib is always a treat!! My husband and I (Sally) sat at the bar. We enjoyed the bartender, Sally J at the bar she was wonderful, funny, great to chat with! The food was amazing but the vibe was fantastic! Sally J is a treasure at Whales Rib!!

Came to this place on the recommendation of another person. Our meal was absolutely wonderful. The rock shrimp and the dolphin sandwich were outstanding. Our waitress, Ashley, was super helpful on her recommendations and service. So were the greeters that seated us. The restaurant was clean and inviting, and the outside seating was enjoyable. I would highly recommend this restaurant in the Deerfield Beach area.

Have been going here for a long time , just never put review in. I always go here when I'm in Florida on vacation, soon to be living there, lol. The place looks like it's from the 80's , but the service and seafood are great. Been here multiple times and always satisfied when I leave. I'd recommend this place for sure and I'll be going there at least once a month now.

Came here yesterday as we were driving down the coast... it was my dad's birthday and he loves funky spots so I'm glad I stumbled upon this one. For appetizers - We ordered the whale fries, which are just their house chips with a honey mustard dipping sauce. These were phenomenal! We could not stop eating them! We also ordered the oysters which were very yummy. For mains - I ordered the baked stuffed shrimp, it comes with a choice of salad and a choice of side. They came sooo hot out of the oven. It was fun to try...but next time I'll stick with regular shrimp. The beans and rice side however was delicious, I would definitely recommend getting that side option. Ambience - This is a really cool spot, serving dive bar energy. The inside is packed with decorations all over the wall. It is dimly lit inside. Lots of people working here, all were super friendly. Parking - No issues here, they have specific parking spots for customers dining in.

If you want a solid fish sandwich, don't pass up the Whales Rib. The nostalgic ambiance matches the local vibes of Deerfield beach. The key west dolphin sandwich is served with Russian dressing, slaw & cheese. Don't forget a side of their homemade whale chips and whale juice!

The whales rib is a must try dive bar. I have been going my whole life and experience amazing and eh service but they always make it right. The food has always been good and I HIGHLY recommend the whale fries and dolphin key west. Yes their other options are also good like the you turkey and many other meals but I love the fish sandwiches. The atmosphere is really cool with writing and license plates all over the walls and fish. Hanging from all the corners as well. This is where you go if you want to experience a true Florida dive bar that has been around for years and is full of history. I highly recommend going. The food is amazing and the restaurant is all around really cool to be in there's always something new to find hanging on the walls.

One of the best dive bars around! Anytime I have friends and family in town the and insist on going to Whales Rib! Number one you cannot go to this place without ordering the whale fries (homemade potato chips). I've ordered almost everything on the menu, but my favorite is the Key West sandwich with blackened dolphin! Always friendly and excellent service!

Always have to go here when I visit. The wait was long (45 min) but the food and service were excellent. Each guest is greeted and checked on numerous times. The chips and clams are delicious as well as anything blackened. Can't go wrong!

So I've been enjoying Whales Rib on a regular basis since 1999. It's consistently at the top of my list for a dose of dependable local seafood and easy dining In Deerfield Beach. The service is always awesome but Gale stands out as part of the experience that makes Whales Rib a very special place. I love an authentic taste of Deerfield Beach's finest.

A great place for seafood in Deerfield Beach. I have visited several times and always enjoyed my meal. Parking is mostly easy in front of the restaurant during the week. This is a great area to explore with beach access and a fishing pier so it can get very crowded on weekends and during season so arrive early. The hostesses greet you out front where there is also some outdoor seating but the indoor atmosphere is rustic and fun with license plates on the walls and a lively bar. We ordered the world famous Lobster Bisque and Conch Chowder to start. We normally get the chowder which was a bit spicier than usual but the Lobster Bisque is always the winner, creamy and so good tasting. My clam strips came with plenty-to-share homemade chips and served with a great mustard sauce. We also ordered the grilled Dolphin sandwich which was as good as we hoped for! The prices are fair for this beach location and fresh seafood. If you enjoy all types of seafood, a fun, casual atmosphere and good service try this restaurant. You wont be disappointed.

My husband and I have been visiting Deerfield location since 1992. That's when I moved to Florida. He ate there since 1989. The food is excellent, impeccable service and you cannot beat the cost. We loved the decor and atmosphere So hit the beach, but don't forget, the great catch of the day is the Whale's Rib. Thank you, Whale's Rib.

Surprisingly good pasta seafood dish with garlic rolls. Also got oyster and king crab legs. All good. Not that big of crab legs for the $70 price for 3-4 legs but it still Overall was good. They don't know or understand GF and I asked from something non-alcoholic and I was stared at. They have a non-alcoholic beer and weren't aware even though it's on the menu. The side salads were plain but fine. Finally the kids menus were interactive which weee nice entertainment. A 30-45m wait but you put your cell phone down and they text you so that's nice. It's a dive bar but has character. I would come back for that pasta garlic cheese butter sauce and oysters.

This is a really cool restaurant! It's very laid back and both the food and service were excellent. We shared the conch fritters with chips and they were delicious. We shared the blackened grouper wrap with a baked potato and it was delicious. For dessert we had the key lime pie and it was really good. I'd definitely recommend this restaurant!

I miss living within walking distance of this place! But now we get to make a special motorcycle trip every so often and the Rib is as good as it always was. Our go-to order is a double Stoli Bloody Mary (outstanding), shell combo and rock shrimp to start, and lobsters. Their baked stuffed dolphin is phenomenal and their blackened dolphin Caesar is my favorite salad anywhere. The service is always fast and friendly and the parking attendant always makes sure our bike gets into a safe spot. Whether you sit inside and enjoy the variety of licenses plates covering the walls, or outside to enjoy the salty air and people watching, you can't go wrong. My only complaint about the Rib is that rock shrimp is not always available, but that's because they're seasonal and no reflection on the restaurant. Still loving this place going on 30 years.

The Whale's Rib is a cute spot along the main strip in Deerfield Beach. A friend and I stopped in for dinner on a Sunday night, and we easily snagged a table outside. They were out of the fresh catch fish at that point, which I always try to order when possible, so I ordered the Grouper wrap, and my friend had the dolphin sandwich. The meals were okay. After our first glass of wine, the waiter took our glasses away, rather than asking if we wanted a second round. A bit odd. Overall, I'd come back if I was in the area and they had the fresh catch available.

It's a pass. Very much a dive. Calamari was good, but the smallest portion ever for $16 Had a blacked grouper that was 85% bun. It felt like it had good history, but the food has not moved past the 90's. Highlight was the Florida weather outside. Hope this helps management.

Whale's Rib is the best way to introduce newcomers to South Florida -- starting with a few bars, the beach, and Whale's Rib to finish it off with the LEGENDARY Key West Dolphin sandwich, a few beers, and a dozen raw oysters. If I was absent from Florida for a year, this would be the first place I'd want to visit after a return! Deerfield Beach and Whale's Rib have the old Florida beach vibe preserved -- which is becoming a rarity. The crew member was in training and she was a blast! She had us try some of the secret whale sauce which go great with the whale fries!

We went June 2025 while staying at Elizabeth House Inn. It is at walking distance so we ended going three times. The service is amazing, they make you feel like you are the only customer (full house). The food was incredible and big portions. We had the dolphin fish fingers with whale fries and a wahoo sandwich with cal-slaw. All cooked to perfection. YOU NEED TO TRY THE KEY LIME PIE!! The lobster bisque is delicious. The ambiance is beach bar, we just fell in love with the place and the people. We are definitely going back!

Great freaking service is the only thing I can say. But the food was for anyone without a taste big in their mouth!! The worst oysters rocketfeller I have ever had in my Life . Drinks had zero alcohol and even after asking to have another one still had zero . The clam Chowder was empty like 2 cla in it and flavor was basic And anything guy fieri goes to is always. Complete garbage because it seems as though they pay him To come out only Because they suck ?

Had a delicious shrimp appetizer and the Key West Group grilled - highly recommend both. It's slightly odd that the sandwich doesn't come with sides given the price, but I couldn't even eat the whole thing so it didn't matter much to me. Our server was bubbly and attentive and since it was nice out, we took advantage of eating outside. Great beach spot to grab seafood, that's for sure.

Been coming here since 2015 and every time my go to has been the blackened dolphin. Highly recommend if you're in the boca area you won't be disappointed!

Our friend took us here. She was raving about their Rock Shrimp appetizer but it was sold out. Tried the popular item on the menu that was featured on Guy Fieri's DDD - Dolphin Sandwich (blackened). Also ordered their Grilled Sea Scallops which came with a side of Caesar salad . Both mains were of generous portions and cooked perfectly. We sat outside and the lighting is bluish purple so am sorry for how the pictures turned out. I forgot to take pics of the scallops. But I guarantee you, they were simply grilled but amazing. Great food and service. Could be quite a wait when you come after work. We walked here from our house a block away but for those who drive, valet parking is $7. Depending on what day and time you go, you might luck out finding street parking or at a parking structure nearby. Would definitely come back next time we're in DFB again.

Food was great for what it is. Service was great. Great sports/sea joint. Definitely a place to check out.

The food was on point and fresh...The service was amazing with our waitress, Lauren. She was very friendly and knowledgeable of the food. I definitely enjoyed and recommend checking out this restaurant if you're in the area.

Loved eating here, the whale chips and sauce are great- would recommend; there were a ton of them. The sauce was very tasty. The server was super nice. Helpful and told us about some karaoke places. My only complaint was the inside was so hot I was sweating at the table. It is hot outside but I did not expect it to be so warm inside. Other than the heat, I would highly recommend.

If you are looking for fried oysters in Deerfield beach, this is your place! They offer inside and patio seating (great people watching). The oysters were lightly battered and were served with their famous whale fries. The server was attentive and pleasant and check in was quick. They also offer parking in their attaches lot as parking is a commodity in the area.

Recommended by Scott from the Marriott we were staying at and as seen on Diners, Drive Ins, & Dives this place is very touristy in Ambiance. Outdoor and indoor seating. We sat outdoors it was a beautiful evening and we were right on the main street, I perfect entertainment for People Watching. Service was cool. Conley was attentive and helpful. The fresh fish was phenomenal.

Crab cakes were great. Everything was fresh, tasty and well prepared. I would definitely visit again.

First time there. Delilah was an absolute legend. Answered all our questions even the funny ones. She's absolutely stunning and amazing at her job.

We got the grouper bites-yum. The fish dip was really good. Parking is valet or paid lot across the street which was 30.00. Do the valet and tip the staff. Huge place.

Whale's Rib never misses! We've been coming here for years and it's always amazing. Daz was our server and he went above and beyond with great recs and awesome service. Manager Chase and the whole staff were super friendly. We had the whale fries and juice, dolphin sandwich, crab cakes, lobster bisque, fried oysters, rock shrimp po' boy, and shrimp scampi--everything was fresh and delicious. Chill vibe, affordable prices, and dog-friendly too. One of our favorite spots!

So I have been going to the Whales Rib for over 20 years. Always good service and fresh clams and oysters. I don't eat them anywhere else. They are always ice cold because they are iced down in the kitchen. Most restaurants just take them out of the walk in box and serve them on ice. That is not ice cold just because it is served on ice. My wife and I went the other day and had the terrific oysters and clams. Lunch was kind of marred by the waitress Delilah. She was gruff,semi rude and inelegant --to be polite. Saying inappropriate things. For example. She asked "did you like it? We said yes and she responded: "you better". I think you can extrapolate from that how the other verbal interactions went. She needs some customer service training or perhaps make her a food runner.

Good experience, the service was great and the food was very pleasant. Full of people and a very good beach vibe!!

The food was amazing, the service excellent, and the environment was fun. Highly recommend the oysters!

Great little spot. We got the smoked fish dip, that was amazing. Husband got the prime rib and I got the scallops. It was all so good! The wait staff was nice and everyone was helping each other, managers going around checking on guest, etc. Haven't seen a work ethic like this in a restaurant in a very long time.

Rare 5 Star post for me. Food was excellent and service and hospitality was on point. Left the waitress a very nice tip. Will be coming back soon.

My friend has been going here for years and loves it so we tried it for dinner one night. I definitely get the hype. The whale chips (not actual whale thankfully lol) were really good and well seasoned. They come with a house made honey mustard sauce for dipping. I got the Cesar salad with crab cakes and it was delicious. Our server Ashley was great and chatted with us about the license plates you see all around the restaurant as decor. We finished the night off with a Reesie's peanut butter cheesecake that was pretty good too.

I completely "failed" as a Yelp viewer last night because I did not take any photos. So for anyone reading, I am sorry! My husband and I have visited The Whale's Rib several times over the last two decades we've lived in South Florida. We haven't been here since before Covid, and when I recommended going here for dinner, the debate of where to go eat quickly ended. There is parking here, but the lot can be pretty tight to park in. Fortunately, there's an attendant who can help direct you to squeeze you into a spot. Over the years, this restaurant has improved its outdoor eating area, but due to the summer heat, we decided to eat inside. I would describe the restaurant's decor as classic, old-school, and lived in. There are pictures of fisherman with their catch, antique signs, and lots of old license plates on the walls. The booths are made of dark wood. It's that kind of decor that comes with age and is hard to re-create for a brand new restaurant. Our server was attentive, and the manager came by several times to check in with us. If you get soft drinks, they will come in mini pitchers. I had the stuffed dolphin which came with a choice of a side and either a garden or Caesar salad. My husband had the blackened prime rib. I'm happy to say the food quality has not gone south after all these years. In fact, I think it was even better than I last remembered. The fish was very fresh and the breading and stuffing was delicious. I was happy my husband got the whales rib fries as his side. They are more like freshly made potato chips and are delicious with some blue cheese dressing. Now that I think of it, if you go and order these, see if they have a balsamic glaze. That would be delicious on these chips with a side of blue cheese dressing. If the owners are looking at this review that would be an awesome way to serve these chips. If you're in the mood for a classic ol' Florida seafood restaurant, of which there are not many places like this anymore in the area, then this is the place for you!

This dining experience was extraordinary from the introduction to the finale. Our server, Ashley, exhibited superb customer service skills and is an absolute delightful human being! The host (a young man with short dark hair & tan skin), was so personable and lovely. Both these staff members made us feel beyond welcome. The ambience was very cozy and the '80s music was such a joy! Overall, the value, service, and ambience at The Whale's Rib is unbeatable!!