50 Best American Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale

“The Katherine Restaurant offers delicious food, including an outstanding slow-cooked short rib and tasty Thai cabbage. The clam chowder could use more broth. While the service is pleasant and quick, parking can be challenging as it is often full or reserved for other businesses and residents. The menu and food quality are praised, making it a valuable addition to Ft. Lauderdale's dining scene.“

“J. Alexander's Restaurant in Ft. Lauderdale offers consistent quality, delicious food, and creative drinks. The shrimp cocktail, prime rib, and Steak Maui were all on point. The daily specials menu is a hit, and the reasonably priced meals make it a go-to spot for many. The standout feature is the excellent service, with servers like Dion and Lena going above and beyond to enhance the dining experience. Whether you're a regular visitor or returning after years, J. Alexander's is a top choice for a memorable meal with family and friends.“

“Velvet Taco provides a welcoming experience with friendly staff, high-quality food, and great service. The manager and staff, like Susset, go above and beyond to ensure customers feel valued, even offering kindness to those in need. The menu offers delicious options, including chicken and waffles, and the staff is happy to help with selections.“

“Emmy Squared Pizza: Fort Lauderdale offers fresh and delicious pizza, with a variety of drinks available. The staff is friendly and accommodating, although service may be slow during busy times. The ambiance is great with indoor and outdoor seating options. Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid any missed orders.“

“Gilbert's 17th Street Grill is a highly-recommended family-owned restaurant that serves excellent food and offers a welcoming atmosphere. Their burgers are a standout, with perfectly seasoned meat cooked to order, and sweet potato fries are a tasty side dish. The Key lime pie is a must-try, with many considering it the best they've had. The restaurant also offers gluten-free options, including the blue cheese burger, which can be served without a bun. With friendly staff and a convenient location, Gilbert's 17th Street Grill is a great choice for a meal before or after a visit to the Keys or South Florida.“

“Casablanca Cafe offers an exceptional dining experience with its superb food and beautiful atmosphere. The lemon garlic shrimp skewers and Dulce De Leche ice cream are standout dishes, while the fresh, home-style meals and attentive service from the staff receive high praise. The restaurant's outdoor seating overlooking the water and spacious, open-concept interior create a wonderful ambiance for both casual and business gatherings. Overall, Casablanca Cafe is a highly recommended spot for a memorable meal.“

“Ocean2000 offers a beautiful setting with stunning beach views, perfect for breakfast or lunch. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including Greek omelets and corn beef hash. While service can be inconsistent, with some diners experiencing delays and overcooked dishes, attentive staff members like Jorge ensure a welcoming atmosphere.“

“Foxy Brown is a restaurant that offers a friendly and energetic atmosphere, with attentive service from staff like the bartender and server Ohana. The bar is known for its quick service and the food has been described as excellent value with generous portions. Standout dishes include the Shrimp n Grits and the Foxy Burger. However, there have been some inconsistencies in food quality, as some entrees may not meet expectations. The restaurant is a high-volume location, so it's recommended to plan for a wait time and enjoy a drink at the bar while waiting for a table.“

“The American Tapas Bar offers a relaxing atmosphere with live music, providing a great spot for various occasions. The food, particularly during brunch, is spectacular, and the small plates allow for sharing. Henrique provides excellent and attentive service, making it a memorable dining experience.“

“Kaluz Restaurant is a popular spot for special occasions and nights out with friends. The outdoor patio offers stunning views of the Intracoastal, and the food is consistently outstanding. The chef's secret spices add a special touch, as seen in the exceptional snapper sandwich. While some visitors may find the atmosphere overwhelming, the staff is always on their game and attentive. With a focus on fresh ingredients and exceptional service, Kaluz never fails to impress, even on busy nights.“

“Here and Now Modern Tapas Craft Cocktails offers a wonderful experience from the moment you walk in the door. The place is beautiful with phenomenal food and drinks, and the staff is very knowledgeable and friendly. Enjoy the great live music while you sip on delicious craft cocktails like the smoked bourbon Manhattans and the refreshing watermelon vodka drink. Indulge in tasty small bites like the bruschetta, brussels sprouts, and smoked fish dip. For the main course, try the duck, short rib, or salmon, all of which are delicious. Top off your meal with a decadent chocolate and caramel cheesecake. While the service may not be top-notch, the friendly atmosphere makes for a pleasurable dining experience at Here and Now Modern Tapas Craft Cocktails.“

“Primanti Brothers Pizza and Grill serves unexpectedly great pizzas and sandwiches at affordable prices. The restaurant offers fast and friendly customer service, and the food is fresh and delicious. It's a convenient spot with street parking available. Be aware that it's cash-only. Try their popular "all the meats" pizza or sandwiches for a great dining experience.“

“Doc B's Restaurant offers a varied dining experience. The food is generally well-received, with the fried chicken and cucumber salad being standout menu items. The service is praised, with attentive and friendly waiters who strive to ensure a positive customer experience. However, some issues have been reported, such as a subpar cocktail and concerns about the restaurant's temperature and noise levels. Overall, Doc B's provides a pleasant dining atmosphere, with delicious food and excellent service, though some areas for improvement may exist.“

“The Jet Runway Cafe offers a pleasant ambiance, with its location next to a private airport providing a unique setting. The restaurant is known for its large portions, good food, and friendly service. Vegetarian options are available, and the establishment is considered kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible.“

“The Grill offers a phenomenal dining experience, with amazing staff and great food. The staff is attentive and kind, with a focus on providing excellent service. The menu offers a variety of options, and prices are reasonable. The modern, spotless, and pleasing decor creates a casually elegant ambiance. The restaurant is great for a Saturday night dinner, despite the noise level. Overall, The Grill is a wonderful place to dine, with a great team providing a mind-blowing experience.“

“I Heart Mac & Cheese is a restaurant offering a variety of macaroni and cheese dishes and sandwiches. Kids can enjoy original Mac and cheese and popcorn chicken, while adults might like the Buffalo chicken Mac and cheese balls. The Best of Both Worlds sandwich and grilled cheese are also popular choices. The restaurant provides tasty dipping sauces, tomato soup, tator tots, and cheese sauce as sides. With friendly staff, ample parking, and a clean environment, it's a pleasant dining experience for families and individuals alike.“

“YOT Bar & Kitchen offers a pleasant dining experience with attentive service. The food is generally well-received, though some items may be better than others. The restaurant's atmosphere is enjoyable, though temperature control can be an issue during warmer months. Overall, YOT provides a satisfactory dining option for customers.“

“Holly Blue offers delicious food, with highlights including the Chicken & Waffles and Halloumi Benedict. The restaurant boasts a sophisticated ambiance, well-curated brunches, and impressive service. The bar is also worth noting. Whether visiting for Sunday Brunch or a special occasion, Holly Blue is sure to exceed expectations.“

“Commercial Point Cafe offers great food at great prices with fantastic service. The grits are excellent and there are vegetarian options. It's a hidden gem where every dish is worth trying, like the avocado and bacon sandwich. The staff is friendly, making you feel valued. Perfect for a quick meal, serving breakfast and lunch.“

“Sea Level Restaurant is a great place with an amazing atmosphere located on resort premises. The prices are somewhat reasonable, and the food is excellent, especially the flatbread, hummus, fries, and steak. Parking is available for $18 per day. The restaurant offers a relaxing ambiance with beautiful views of the lagoon, beach, and hotel pool. The service is top-notch, with helpful and friendly staff. The Barefoot Dining experience is highly recommended for a special evening, with a romantic beachside setting surrounded by tiki torches and sand lights. The dining experience includes 5 courses and a bottle of wine. The food is outstanding, with dishes like arancini, seafood charcuterie board, seasonal salad, filet, scallops, mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, key lime pie, and turtle ice cream sandwich. The staff, including Jacob, Jackie, and Chef Charles, ensure a memorable and delightful evening. The property has a welcoming vibe with a grand outdoor space, expansive beach, and 2 pools, making it a perfect spot for special occasions or to bring friends and family for a unique dining experience.“

“The Mason Jar Cafe in Fort Lauderdale offers tasty comfort food with a good variety that keeps older clientele coming back. With homecooked healthy meals and attentive waitresses, it's a relaxing spot for a decent, healthy meal. The seafood stew is a standout dish, with a wonderful broth and plenty of seafood. Affordable prices and ample parking make it a popular choice, although it can get crowded in the evenings. Overall, a lovely little eatery worth checking out.“

“Goldberg's Delicatessen and Bagels is a top-notch eatery that excels in various aspects. Their sandwiches, such as the Reuben and corned beef, are highly praised, with some considering them even better than their competitors. While their bagel selection may not be as extensive, their bagels are still phenomenal, especially when paired with their excellent cream cheese. The ambiance is also a highlight, with a more restaurant-like atmosphere that invites diners to sit and be served. Additionally, their take-home desserts, like coconut macaroons, are a nice touch. With attentive servers and a wide range of options, Goldberg's is a great choice for breakfast or lunch, and many consider it the best bagel spot in the area.“

“BRGR STOP is a fantastic place with the best burgers and cheesesteak in the area. The food is worth the price, with burgers that can last a whole week. The milkshakes are also a must-try, leaving customers impressed. While there was a slight service issue, the overall experience was enjoyable and highly recommended, especially after a day at the beach. Don't miss the chance to try their delicious food and friendly staff.“

“The Terrace Grill is a luxurious and gorgeous restaurant that provides an excellent dining experience. The reservations team was extremely accommodating, and the service was wonderful. The restaurant offers beautiful outdoor seating as well as elegant booths inside, with high ceilings and stunning chandeliers. The food is phenomenal, including delicately seasoned shrimp with cheese grits and a steak cooked to perfection. The desserts are homemade and absolutely amazing. The Terrace Grill is an ideal choice for a special occasion, such as a large party birthday brunch or an anniversary celebration.“

“B Square Burgers is a staple in Fort Lauderdale, offering consistently delicious burgers made to order. Servers are attentive and able to recall orders without writing them down. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, including a prime location on Las Olas. The late-night menu offers classic options, including crispy and flavorful fries. Burgers are cooked well and taste good, with prices ranging from $12-$17 for a meal. While the atmosphere can be loud, especially with the DJ during Sunday brunch, the food and service are always great.“

“Smokey Bones Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic place to eat, offering truly delicious food at a very nice price. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making customers feel at home. The ribs are a highlight, and happy hour drinks are a bonus. With generous portions and a big menu catering to different tastes, it's a great spot to hang out with family and friends.“

“Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar & Store is a restaurant known for its excellent service and prime location. The fast and friendly staff, including standouts Cliff, Amanda, and Eoul, ensure a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience. The menu features delicious options such as Ahi tuna tacos, Cajun fries, jerk rub wings, and burger sliders. The cocktails are strong and flavorful, and the restaurant is home to the outgoing and attentive Kiome, whose Jamaican accent adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Many customers enjoy people-watching while seated along the busy street, making it a great spot for both food and drink.“

“Lips Drag Queen Show Palace, Restaurant & Bar is the perfect spot for a fun and memorable celebration. The energetic performances and great food at this Ft. Lauderdale venue create an unforgettable experience. The welcoming staff, including Vauz and Velvet, ensure that every guest has a fantastic time. Whether it's for Sunday brunch or a night out, Lips always delivers a high-energy atmosphere that keeps customers coming back for more.“

“The Historic Downtowner is a South Florida landmark restaurant that offers a lovely dining experience. Located on the water, it features beautiful views of the New River, nicely shaded table umbrellas, and free parking. The menu offers great food options, including salads, veggies, tacos, and daily specials. Vegetarians will find plenty of choices. The restaurant also boasts a great atmosphere, friendly staff, and a selection of non-GMO food options, including a mouthwatering chicken and waffle dish. With its reasonable prices and prompt service, this local gem is definitely worth multiple visits.“

“Oasis Emporium is a restaurant known for its delicious, authentic Brazilian food and friendly service. The feijoada and pineapple mint juice are must-tries. It's a great place for groups, with options for those with gluten-free dietary restrictions. Customers appreciate the clean, nature-inspired atmosphere and the availability of frozen packs of popular snacks for take-home enjoyment.“

“Country Ham N' Eggs Bar & Grill is a cozy spot serving up warm and friendly atmosphere along with delicious breakfast dishes. Favorites include the fresh bacon, egg, and cheese on a bagel, corned beef hash and eggs, and huge omelettes. Enjoy a leisurely morning with a cup of coffee and try their signature Country Ham, a rare find in Fort Lauderdale.“

“J. Mark's Restaurant is known for its delicious food and excellent service. The oriental chicken salad and steaks are particularly praised as standouts on the menu. The staff, including servers Bryan and Noah, are commended for their attentiveness, knowledge of the menu, and friendly personalities. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as comfortable and welcoming, with options for outdoor dining. While some may have had issues with certain drinks, such as a bitter margarita, the overall consensus is positive. The restaurant is also noted for its inclusivity and welcoming attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community.“

“Riverside Market South offers a diverse dining experience. The restaurant boasts an impressive beer selection, with a knowledgeable bartender who provides excellent recommendations. The food menu is described as more creative than typical pub fare, with great flavors. The ambiance is described as a relaxed and quiet environment, with some music playing. The restaurant is located in an unexpected area, making it a hidden gem.“

“Boozy Bites is a popular spot in downtown Fort Lauderdale, serving delicious food and great customer service. Their Colombian Burger and bacon jam burger are standouts, and the prices are affordable for the quantity of food. The restaurant is open late, making it a great spot to stop by after drinks.“

“Wild Sea Las Olas is a restaurant associated with The Riverside Hotel that has exceeded expectations. The service is generally nice, with food arriving quickly and sometimes even delivered by robot trays, a unique experience. During the weekend brunch, customers have enjoyed dishes like the Traditional Breakfast and the Mahi Mahi Sandwich. The restaurant also has a decent-sized bar that may be worth trying. While the Lobster Roll has been praised, there have been some issues with attentiveness from servers and mixups with orders, which were eventually resolved. The ambiance could use some improvements, and the menu, while great, has had some limitations, such as the waffle machine being shut down during a Mother's Day brunch. Overall, the restaurant provides a mixed experience.“

“Bo's Beach is a wonderful place to eat, with plenty of shade and fans to keep you cool. The fish dip and fish tacos were delicious, while the kids' food was as expected. The service was great, with friendly bartenders like Gabi and Michael making the experience even better. The Mahi tacos, Lobster Mac and Cheese, and Margarita Pizza were all highly recommended. The restaurant offers a stunning view of the ocean and a refreshing breeze. Parking is convenient in the outdoor lot, and the restaurant is kid-friendly, with attentive staff willing to accommodate young guests. Wheelchair accessibility is good, with no steps on the main level. Bo's Beach is now a favorite spot for the reviewer, who plans to return with friends to enjoy the food, service, and ambiance.“

“Duffy's Sports Grill offers a lively atmosphere with large TV screens for watching sports and a selection of cold draft beers. Mark, a friendly and patient server from Georgia, provides great service and suggestions. However, there have been issues with the cooking of steaks, so it may be best to opt for other menu items. Despite this, the restaurant is a recommended spot for the pleasant and attentive service from staff like Mark.“

“American Social offers great food and service, though a bit pricey. Despite a small issue with seating, guests enjoyed their experience. The server was knowledgeable and the ahi tuna poke, deviled eggs, and shrimp cakes were highlights. This trendy spot on Las Olas is perfect for a lively atmosphere and socializing, with a good happy hour and brunch options. Not ideal for a quiet meal, but great for a high-energy vibe. Parking can be a challenge, and the restaurant is not kid-friendly.“

“Riva offers a delightful Easter Brunch experience, with a variety of delicious food served in a spacious ballroom. While lacking in Easter decorations, the attentive staff, outstanding food quality, and beautiful surroundings make for a perfect Marriott experience.“

“A Fort Lauderdale gem. Loved this place. The food was fresh and delicious. Super friendly owners. Our service provider Roy was so nice. The location overlooks the Intercostal waterfront with amazing views. If you are looking for a relaxing non rushed atmosphere this is the place to go. We would definitely visit here when we visit Fort Lauderdale again.

Vegetarian options: So accommodating“

“Wave Surf Shop in Fort Lauderdale offers a wide range of souvenirs, t-shirts, and custom-made items. Customers have praised the friendly employees and excellent service at this store. The prices are reasonable, and many visitors find the quality of the products to be great. Whether you are looking for a specific size or design, the staff at Wave Surf Shop are accommodating and helpful. A visit to this shop can add a fun element to your beach experience in Fort Lauderdale.“

“Shooters Waterfront is a popular Ft. Lauderdale restaurant with a breathtaking atmosphere. It's a great spot for brunch and offers a delicious lobster roll that pairs well with a New England IPA. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including Cajun shrimp pasta and root chips with guacamole. While some dishes may be hit or miss, the restaurant's lovely waterfront location makes it a great spot to enjoy a meal. With its beautiful views, Shooters Waterfront is definitely worth a visit, even if it may be a bit overpriced.“

“Man vs Fries offers a variety of delicious dishes. The OMG Cooki is a decadent dessert featuring a giant, warm cookie packed with chocolate chips and caramel sauce. Breakfast lovers will enjoy the NorCal Burrito, with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and satisfying crunch. The Cali Crunch Burrito is a unique option, with tender carne asada, fresh guacamole, and crispy onion rings. Each dish is carefully crafted to delight the palate.“

“TRP Taste offers a memorable dining experience with delicious food and excellent service. The Hecho en Mexico 5 course meal with wine pairings was a hit, with each dish satisfyingly delicious. The attentive staff, including the guest host, added to the enjoyable atmosphere. Another diner praised the sophisticated menu curated by Chef Lyndsey, making their intimate dinner a success. The New Year's Eve tasting experience, though not without minor delays and inconsistencies, was still highly recommended. The attention to detail in the first four courses stood out, with dishes like oysters, caviar, carpaccio, leek soup, and poached lobster impressing diners. The chef's personality and humor added to the overall experience. While some service issues were noted, the overall verdict was that TRP Taste provided an incredible way to welcome the new year and offered fair pricing for a special occasion menu.“

“Bistro 17 Restaurant is known for its welcoming and friendly staff, including Ashton, Quinn, Dana, and Karoline. The menu offers a variety of options, such as burgers, sandwiches, and cold beers, as well as plentiful appetizers like plantain chips with mango salsa. The Salmon sandwich and Experimental Martini are must-tries. Meals can be enjoyed for approximately $100. Scott, mentioned for his exceptional service, is said to be amazing.“

“Located inside the 4 Points Sheraton, 1800 Bistro & Bar near the airport and cruise Port offers a welcoming atmosphere. The bartenders and servers like Fran and Julian make guests feel like family. Enjoy generous portions of delicious meals like the three cheese mac and shrimp pasta. A hidden gem where locals keep coming back for more.“

“Harborwood Urban Kitchen offers a modern and clean atmosphere, with friendly wait staff and great food. Their menu items, such as French Toast and Shrimp Tacos, are particularly noteworthy. The restaurant serves great food for breakfast and brunch, with drinks made with care. Whether it's a special occasion or just a casual visit, Harborwood Urban Kitchen provides a warm and welcoming experience.“

“Big City Tavern is a restaurant that has consistently received positive reviews from regular customers. However, on one occasion, a group of three family members had a disappointing experience. The Andouille Sausage Skillet was bland and lacked quality control, with some meals missing key ingredients. The mimosas were also watered down and bitter. Despite this, the waitress was lovely and attentive, earning a 25% tip. In contrast, other customers have had excellent experiences at Big City Tavern. The food is consistently delicious, with options such as the Cobb salad with blackened chicken and margarita pizza. The ambiance and seating are also perfect, with outdoor seating available. One reviewer praised the service, particularly the server Sarah, who provided exceptional care and attention to her customers. Big City Tavern is known for hiring friendly and knowledgeable staff, making it a great choice for a night out.“

“Coconuts offers a stunning view by the water, with a spacious seating area. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing fast and delicious food. Recommendations like the lobster roll, jambalaya, scoobies, shrimp scampi, and scallops were all well-received. Despite minor issues like the lack of music on the patio and some dishes being a bit oily, customers had an overall great experience and are likely to return. A short wait for a table was well worth it for the unbeatable atmosphere and tasty meals.“