17 Best High-End Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale

The most popular restaurants in the Sunshine State not only have beautiful interiors but also frequently offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from an outdoor terrace or from windows that reach all the way to the ceiling. They serve local delicacies like local fish and coastal cuisine among other regional specialties.

These are some of the most breathtaking restaurants in all of Florida, with settings ranging from right on the sand to high above the city lights of the state's capital. From a plethora of opportunities for entertainment and education to the breathtaking natural beauty of world-famous beaches, wetlands, and cultural attractions, there are many reasons to visit the city. As a result, Fort Lauderdale is often referred to as the "Venice of America," and with good reason. The city's 165 miles of gorgeous coastal canals wind their way across the city, showcasing the city's unique characteristics and demonstrating why it truly deserves the nickname.

It's possible that Florida is best known for its orange juice, key lime pie, or fresh Cuban sandwiches. However, if you're looking for the local cuisine, the dishes that absolutely must be sampled in order to understand the culture of the area, these are only a few examples of what Fort Lauderdale has to offer.

1. Steak 954 

Address: 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

‍Phone number: +19544148333

This steakhouse-inspired cuisine from South Florida is a classy, contemporary variation of the traditional steakhouse design. Steak 954 makes the most of its magnificent natural surroundings. This unique restaurant is on the shoreline of Fort Lauderdale.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Look at the centerpiece reef aquarium, which is home to live jellyfish that softly undulate as you eat, for evidence of the luxury boutique steakhouse's deep influence from the ocean. Likewise, the restaurant also features expansive beach views during the day and brilliant starlit nights.

There is plenty of indulgence on the menu for meat and seafood enthusiasts. Consequently, this includes dry-aged prime meat and American Wagyu beef. You also can't miss locally caught fish and sumptuous side dishes. Additionally, this excellent steak house offers a wonderful range of international wines and spirits.

WHAT TO EAT AT STEAK 954:

American Wagyu beef and seafood.

• Website: Steak 954 
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Filet mignon and American Wagyu.
• Cuisine: American Steakhouse

2. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse 

Address: 2525 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305

‍Phone number: +19545652338

Come to Ruth's Chris for classic drinks at the bar crafted with premium liquor. Everything they use is of finest ingredients. This upscale dining restaurant is well known for its specialty steaks in addition to its traditional cocktails.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Only the finest USDA Prime beef cuts are available to guests. Every steak is prepared to order. Steaks are carefully cooked in an 1800° custom broiler, garnished with butter, and fresh parsley. Secondly, they are then placed on a sizzling plate at 500°F.

If you have not tried Ruth's Chris, you certainly should. As a result, you don't want to miss the chance to experience dinner there and have a perfectly cooked USDA prime cut steak. At the year-round, exclusive TasteMaker Dinners, you can raise a glass to famous pairings.

The Tastemaker Dinners, which are held on special occasions across the nation, pair chef-curated meals with today's most popular wines.

Additionally, since its founding in 1965, Ruth's formula for success has remained unchanged. Henceforth, the ingredients are perfect steaks, gracious hospitality, and nonstop good times.

WHAT TO EAT AT RUTH'S CHRIS:  

USDA Prime Cut Steak with butter.

• Website: Ruth's Chris
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Lobster Mac and Cheese
• Cuisine: American Steakhouse

Related Read: Best Time To Visit Fort Lauderdale

3. Bistro Mezzaluna 

Address: 1821 SE 10th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

‍Phone number: +19545226620

Longtime patrons of Bistro Mezzaluna in Fort Lauderdale include both snowbirds and discriminating local diners. Situated at 1821 SE 10th Ave in a spectacular freestanding site.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

They uphold the reputation for expertly produced bistro dishes under the watchful guidance of executive chef Jose Diaz. You will quickly see why Bistro Mezzaluna has come to be associated with excellent dining.

When you combine these factors with an award-winning wine list (perhaps the best in the country) and first-rate service.

U.S.D.A. excellent steaks, homemade pasta dishes, and the tastiest local seafood, including enormous stone crab claws, are among the joys on the menu's varied offerings.

Every single dessert is prepared on the spot. The welcoming and cheerful ambiance will make you feel at home, and the knowledgeable service team will do the same.

WHAT TO EAT AT BISTRO MEZZALUNA:

Local seafood, soups and homemade pasta.

• Website: Bistro Mezzaluna 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Lobster Bisque
• Cuisine: Italian

4. Morton’s Steakhouse 

Address: 500 E Broward Blvd Suite 127, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33394

‍Phone number: +19544679720

The top 2% of beef available in the United States—and at Morton's—is USDA Prime-Aged Beef. What Morton's Does Best Is Steak! For the aged Prime beef and other products, Morton's has relied on the same suppliers since day one.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

They choose the best cuts from their stock for Morton's. Consequently, if the standards don't satisfy Morton's requirements, they aren't used in the steaks. They truly mean it when they claim to have "The Best Steak...Anywhere."

Although they indeed serve "The Best Steak...Anywhere," they also provide delectable lighter fare. The Chilean Sea Bass, Red King Crab Legs, Giant Shrimp and Half-Shell Oysters are sure to impress.

Do you see where this is going? Additionally, pairing USDA prime-aged steaks with seafood options results in a traditional dining experience that showcases the best of both the land and the sea.

WHAT TO EAT AT MORTON'S STEAKHOUSE:

USDA Aged steaks and red king crab legs.

• Website: Morton's Steakhouse
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: 6 Oz. Filet Mignon
• Cuisine: American

Related Read: 15 Best Beaches in Miami for Families

5. Chima Steakhouse 

Address: 2400 E. Las Olas Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 |

‍Phone number: +19547120580

Chima is well known for its delicious churrasco, which features more than 15 different types of meat roasted on rotisseries.

At Chima, you'll also find on the menu top sirloin, filet, ribs, lamb, swine, chicken, sausage, and fish, among other types of meat and seafood. These are consistently brought to guests' tables by gauchos as they move about the dining room.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Brazilian and American favorites from salads, cold cuts, cheeses, soup, and traditional Brazilian hot foods are combined in Chima's scrumptious salad bar.

Chima offers a tranquil eating experience with a hint of exclusivity and is perfect for a romantic evening.

The moment you enter the alluring patio of the Fort Lauderdale site, you are treated to a classy eating experience. Additionally, with the fantastic drink promotions, the courtyard and outside bar offer a respite from the typical happy-hour atmosphere.

WHAT TO EAT AT CHIMA STEAKHOUSE:

Steak and salad.

• Website: Chima Steakhouse 
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: Filet Mignon
• Cuisine: Brazilian American Steakhouse

6. Mastro Restaurant 

Address: 3000 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 

‍Phone number: +19545614800

The exquisite steakhouses in Mastro's collection and the Ocean Club Seafood locations are renowned. Henceforth, the restaurants are popular for combining first-rate service, highly regarded cuisine, and live entertainment in a stylish, vivacious setting.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Enjoy the finest prime steaks, freshest seafood, superb wines, and sincere service. Additionally, aged USDA Prime steaks are cooked under their 1,500 degree broiler. Secondly, they are presented sizzling hot with clarified butter on 450 degree plates.

A 2-foot tall seafood tower filled with iced crab legs, shrimp, and oysters is one of Mastro's many fresh seafood options. In addition, it is served above a cloud of dry ice.

The comprehensive variety of top-notch wines, the artistic presentation of custom cocktails in a cloud of dry ice, and of course Mastro's wide range of premium beers are all accessible.

WHAT TO EAT AT MASTRO RESTAURANT:

Iced Crab legs and shrimp.

• Website: Mastro Restaurant 
• Cost: $$$$
• Specialty Dish: USDA Steak and Mastro's Seafood Tower
• Cuisine: American

Related Read: 20 BEST Airboat Tours in the Everglades

7. Cafe Seville 

Address: 2768 E. Oakland Park Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL

‍Phone number: +19545651148

Cafe Seville wants to make sure that everyone at your party has a wonderful dining experience.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

All dishes are prepared upon order. Therefore, they sincerely appreciate your patience. As you enjoy your delectable meal served with a touch of Spain, unwind and make yourself at home.

The Wine Spectator Award of Excellence was given to their wine selection nine times over the last couple of decades.

WHAT TO EAT AT CAFE SEVILLE:

Garlic shrimp.

• Website: Cafe Seville 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Escargot
• Cuisine: Spanish

8. Dune by Laurent Tourondel 

Address: 2200 N Ocean Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305

‍Phone number: +17549004059

DUNE by Laurent Tourondel offers Fort Lauderdale an upscale dining environment unlike any other. It is inspired by the vivid colors and delicious flavors of South Florida's breezy coastal setting.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

DUNE introduces a new chapter of traditional American cuisine marked by an emphasis on originality and invention. Chef Tourondel, who is famous throughout the world, is in charge. His unwavering devotion has resulted in a prize portfolio of restaurants around the world.

In the Auberge Residence, where sophistication, elegance, and dining by the ocean are the norm, Laurent Tourondel created DUNE in partnership with NYC's WeChef Hospitality.

WHAT TO EAT AT DUNE BY LAURENT TOURONDEL:

Lamb chomps and steak.

• Website: Dune by LT 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Crispy Rice & Beef
• Cuisine: American Steakhouse

9. Blue-Moon Fish Co. 

Address:4405 W Tradewinds Ave, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL 33308

‍Phone number:+19542679888

Blue Moon Fish Company, which is situated on Fort Lauderdale's lovely Intracoastal Waterway, offers a renowned Sunday brunch. In addition they're open every day for lunch and supper.

The broad menu offers delectable seasonal sweets and freshly caught seafood. The famous Blue Moon Fish Co. has a wide selection of old and new vine wines Additionally, their wines are served by waitstaff who are committed to presenting first-rate service.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

As a scratch kitchen, they are happy to collaborate with the best fish merchants and farmers in the area. They use as many locally sourced ingredients as possible.

Unique seasonal dishes like stuffed lobster tail and Kansas City cowboy steak are included in the chef's specials. Blue Moon Fish Co. aims to provide quality in every area of their dining experience, including front-row seats to the Intracoastal Waterway and magnificent ocean vistas. 

For good cause, this waterfront restaurant has won numerous accolades for its cuisine. Therefore, the eatery is also the "Best Waterfront Dining in Fort Lauderdale" by Zagat and OpenTable.

They provide a diverse selection of one-of-a-kind seafood meals that are influenced by Cajun cuisine. In addition, you'll see linguini with shrimp, clams, and mussels in a chili sauce as one of the many mouthwatering specialties. Other mouthwatering options include diver sea scallops served with golden beets and lentils.

However, do not overlook the opportunity to indulge in some blue crab and corn-roasted grouper topped with wild mushrooms.

Blue Moon Fish Co. offers a variety of wines, beers, and cocktails to go with your meal. In addition, your dessert must include the key lime pie, which is topped with toasted coconut meringue.

WHAT TO EAT AT BLUE MOON FISH CO.:

Blue Crab and corn roasted grouper topped with wild mushrooms.

• Website: Blue Moon Fish Co.  
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Blue Moon Iced Seafood Tower
• Cuisine: Seafood

Related Read: 17 BEST Restaurants in Fort Myers, FL

10. 3030 Ocean Restaurant 

Address: 3030 Holiday Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

‍Phone number:+19547653030

Your Beachfront Dining Experience Awaits. The diverse on-site eatery 3030 Ocean Restaurant and Bar invites you to experience the delights of seaside dining.

This upscale establishment provides guests with a beautiful range of handcrafted cocktails and specialty drinks. In 2015, the 3030 Ocean Restaurant first opened its doors, and since then, both locals and visitors to South Florida have been wowed.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

This stylish evening cafe is tucked away inside the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. Additionally, this is one of the greatest hotels in Fort Lauderdale. Henceforth, that makes this restaurant the perfect location for a romantic beachside supper by candlelight.

Adrienna Grenier, winner of Food Network's "Chopped," provides innovative culinary creations at this beachside eatery. As a result, the menu was created by South Florida resident and chef Grenier to reflect the rich tastes of the ocean.

This restaurant is ideal for a special supper for two.  Additionally, it offers both small and large plates. The menu is full of fresh seafood like grilled octopus, crab cakes, and house-smoked fish dip.

If you truly want to make this evening one that you won't soon forget, give some thought to ordering the chef's five-course prix fixe or the magnificent wine pairing.

WHAT TO EAT AT OCEAN 3030:

Octopus and crab cakes

• Website: Ocean 3030 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Grilled Octopus
• Cuisine: Seafood

11. Casa D’Angelo Fort Lauderdale

Address: 1201 N Federal Hwy #5a, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

‍Phone number: +19545641234

Opening of Casa D'Angelo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 1998. The restaurant has won a lot of honors, such as Zagat's America's Top Restaurants and Wine Spectator's Best of  Excellence.

In addition to receiving the Golden Spoon Award from Florida Trend magazine for the previous 13 years, Casa D'Angelo was given a four-star rating in the Sun-Sentinel.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

The Miami Herald praises Elia's outstanding Tuscan cuisine. Consequently, the flagship restaurant, Casa D'Angelo in Fort Lauderdale, sets the tone with an emphasis on Old World, classical Italian dishes that use fresh ingredients.

Some ingredients are explicitly from Italy. The chefs prepare and expertly present meat and fish, discernible confections, and good wine to complement each meal.

The iconic location is the ideal place for an elegant lunch and a night out on the tow. Additionally, the Casa D'Angelo is only a short distance from the beach and popular downtown Fort Lauderdale attractions.

WHAT TO EAT AT CASA D'ANGELO:

Seafood and veal

• Website: Casa D'Angelo
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Veal Chops
• Cuisine: Italian

12. Canyon Restaurant

Address: 620 S Federal Hwy. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

‍Phone number: +17547797199

Over the course of more than 25 years, Canyon has been one of the most popular restaurants in Fort Lauderdale.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

The restaurant Canyon is a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant features a full bar that is known for its legendary Prickly Pear Margarita. The cuisine served there is distinctive. American artisanal cuisine with overtones of Asian, South, and Central American flavors.

The menu at Canyon, which features American craft cuisine that is also influenced by cuisine from Asia, South America, and Central America, is both creative and unexpected.

In addition to worldly flavors, the restaurant also has the delicious cuisine of the Southwestern region. Likewise, the Canyon is particularly notable for its chocolate bread pudding.

WHAT TO EAT AT CANYON FL:

Tuna tartare and chocolate bread pudding.

• Website: Canyon FL 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Tuna Tartare
• Cuisine: American, Latin American

13. Salt7 

Address: 500 E Las Olas Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

‍Phone number: +19547517258

SALT7 is at an excellent location, just next to the Bew River. It includes lovely inside, outdoor, and patio dining spaces. Moreover, there is a sizable indoor and outdoor bar. 

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

The setting exudes a comfortable, informal elegance, and the views of the never-ending parade of boats passing by are an unparalleled draw.

Boaters shouldn't get too enthusiastic, even though it has a fantastic pedestrian dock directly on the water, as boat docking is not allowed.

They excel in the culinary department. Therefore, dishes like the superbly fresh East Coast Oyster is paired with one of the best mignonette sauces. With the addition of fennel, their house-smoked Wahoo Fish Dip is also among the finest tasting.

The truffled cream and micro cilantro are with the grilled diver scallops. Instead of being overpowering the flavors work well together and improved the dish.

Overall, the cuisine and the menu are excellent. The prices are a bit high, but reasonable given the restaurant's excellent location and lovely surroundings. Most guests love their Wagyu Warhawk Tomahawk.

WHAT TO EAT AT SALT7:

Sushi Pizza and Wagyu Steak

• Website: Salt 7 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Sushi Pizza
• Cuisine: American

14. Serafina Italian Restaurant & Waterfront Bistro 

Address: 926 NE 20th Ave Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

‍Phone number: +19544632566

If you want incredible meals created by the best you will find Serafina to be your new favorite! Hidden away in Victoria Park is the enchanting trattoria that glows romantically with candlelight and offers a breathtaking view of the Middle River.

The Italian word "SERAFINA" means both "beautiful evening" and "angel of the sea." Those who have been there agreed wholeheartedly.

Anyone who has had the good fortune to visit Italy knows how simple it is to fall in love with the country's people, language, culture, landscape, and food!

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

This is a charming trattoria with candlelight and lovely views. Additionally, its doors open to a fantastically attractive atmosphere and the fragrances of Mediterranean delicacies.

As a result, it's always a gorgeous evening at Trattoria Serafina, for sure! The servers and employees are kind and welcoming, and they want you to feel at home.

WHAT TO EAT AT SERAFINE ITALIAN RESTAURANT:

Chicken Milanese

• Website: Serafine Italian Restuarant 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Chicken Milanese
• Cuisine: Italian

15. Shooters Waterfront Restaurant 

Address: 3033 NE 32nd Ave Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308

‍Phone number: +19545662855

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, The New Shooters Waterfront is a classic dining destination. This is thanks to its breathtaking scenes of the Intracoastal Waterway and mouthwatering food. At Shooters, you'll find attentive, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic staff.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Whether you choose to dine inside the 200-seat dining room to soak up one of the chef's masterfully crafted dishes, take a seat on the stylish waterside veranda to let the breeze cool you, or pull up to the 340-foot dock for a post-boating meal, you're sure to find something you'll enjoy about this historic restaurant.

Eating seafood-inspired New American cuisine has never been more enjoyable! Additionally, new owners and managers now control the New Shooters Waterfront. They have upgraded and renovated quite a bit. As long as they are the main draw on the Intracoastal, Shooters Waterfront will keep growing.

WHAT TO EAT AT SHOOTERS WATERFONT:

Coconut shrimp

• Website: Shooters Waterfront 
• Cost: $$
• Specialty Dish: Coconut Shrimp
• Cuisine: American

16. Kaluz

Address: 3300 E Commercial Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 

‍Phone number: 954-772-2209

There is a location of this sophisticated New American restaurant and bar in both Wellington and Fort Lauderdale in the state of Florida.

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

Kaluz serves up gourmet food, cocktails, and wine. You'll also want to try the sweets while enjoying the elegant atmosphere.  This waterfront restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine. Additionally, each table offers a view of the Intracoastal canal.

On the full menu, you'll find fresh seafood, custom steaks, and fresh salads. Kaluz also makes some amazing burgers. Finish your meal with a mouthwatering dessert. Everything is prepared fresh in their kitchen.

The wine list at Kaluz features over 150 different bottles of wine, spanning a wide range of vintages and types of grapes. We are open for lunch and dinner every single day of the week.

Outside, you may bask in the warm breeze of South Florida, while inside, you can see the modern architecture and views of the waterways. You can book, a table on their website anytime.

WHAT TO EAT AT KALUZ:

Lamb Burger

• Website: Kaluz 
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Lamb Burger
• Cuisine: American

17. Yolo Restaurant 

Address: 333 East Las Olas Boulevard Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301

‍Phone number: 954-523-1000

WHY SHOULD YOU EAT HERE?

The owners have lived by the straightforward adage that their name conveys ever since they opened YOLO in 2008: "You only live once." Yolo owners and staff have always believed that YOLO should be a significant contributor to the neighborhood and downtown Fort Lauderdale.

WHAT TO EAT AT YOLO:

Prime Rib Sandwich

• Website: Yolo
• Cost: $$$
• Specialty Dish: Prime Rib Sandwich
• Cuisine: American