A Foodie’s Weekend in Fort Lauderdale: Where to Eat, Drink, and Indulge

As a food lover, you’re probably constantly looking for your next unforgettable culinary weekend. Well, have you ever considered taking a trip to Fort Lauderdale? When people think of South Florida, many automatically think of Miami, but Fort Lauderdale also has an exciting food scene with plenty of hidden gems and trendy restaurants. 

From bustling waterfront restaurants and bistros to global street food, foodies can expect a vast range of culinary delights, from the freshest seafood to the latest in innovation and international flavors, and there’s certainly something to tempt every single taste bud in Fort Lauderdale! With so much to try and taste, it’s essential to start planning your gastronomic adventure as soon as possible; if you’re working with a budget, search for hotel deals in Fort Lauderdale to keep costs down so you can focus the majority of your budget on visiting some of the most famous restaurants and hidden eateries in the city. 

To help you with your itinerary, read on for some of our best tips for where to eat, drink, and indulge in Fort Lauderdale. 

Arrival Day

Once you’ve arrived in Fort Lauderdale, your culinary expedition can begin! The best way to start any day is with a good breakfast, and you’ll be spoilt for choice in any of Fort Lauderdale’s trendy cafes. Sip on freshly brewed coffee and crumbly pastries, or try something a little fresher with a smoothie bowl made with locally sourced fruits. It’s the perfect way to set up your day. The Alchemist Cafe has an endearing charm and is a friendly and welcoming place. Art-filled walls give it a relaxed vibe, so why not kick back, sip on your coffee, and people-watch? 

For lunch, why not try another casual spot? If your tastebuds are ready for something regional, why not try some fresh seafood at Coconuts? Situated on the waterfront, you’ll have fantastic views of the Intracoastal Waterway while enjoying their Crispy Fish Tacos and tangy mango salsa. Inspired by Latin cuisine and a vibe to match, Coconuts is the perfect place to soak up the midday Floridan sun. 

In need of an afternoon snack? What could be better than some gelato? Head down to the Gelato & Co for a scoop of artisanal gelato and a great Instagram shot. You can enjoy the cool sea breeze as you choose from their array of mouthwatering flavors – from classic stracciatella to pistachio.

Now it’s dinner time, and to cap off your first day exploring the culinary delights of Fort Lauderdale, why not enjoy a beautiful dinner at Lobster Bar Sea Grille? With an innovative take on classic American fare, the extensive menu here is mainly seafood-focused, with a curated wine list that compliments every dish perfectly. We recommend the pan-seared scallops with buerre blanc sauce and crispy prosciutto!

Day 2

It’s day two, and it’s time for breakfast. So, why not have a late one and enjoy a full brunch experience at Java and Jam? This eatery in Las Olas serves up flavourful dishes in a rustic setting. It’s super welcoming, and you can expect classic brunch dishes with a twist, like avocado on toast with feta cheese and smoked salmon, banana yogurt parfait, and mimosas made with freshly squeezed Florida oranges. 

Check out Fort Lauderdale’s diverse cultural influences for lunch and try something completely new. Head to TacoCraft Taqueria & Tequila Bar, offering a delicious fusion of Latin flavors and craft cocktails! Partons can try Korean short rib tacos with spicy kimchi and sesame seeds and sample their house margaritas cocktail with fresh lime juice and agave nectar. 

Dinner time is here again, so it’s time to experience some farm-to-table restaurants and those that prioritize sustainability. Dining at S3 – Sun, Surf, Sand offers a sophisticated coastal vibe showcasing locally sourced ingredients’ flavors. Here, you can expect bold flavors from dishes like grilled octopus or sushi rolls crafted with the freshest fish. You can also try out the cocktail menu for photo-worthy handcrafted drinks that complement your meal. 

Day 3

It’s your final day in Fort Lauderdale, but don’t panic! There’s still plenty of time to indulge in some last-minute flavors. Start your morning with a gorgeous brunch and head to Top Hat Deli, known for its oversized pancakes and bottomless mimosas! We recommend the challah french toast or a classic bagel with lox and cream cheese.

After enjoying some last-minute sightseeing, make room for one last indulgence at Sweeter Days Bake Shop. If you’re a dessert lover, this charming bakery is the perfect way to sign off on your first visit to Fort Lauderdale. Their signature Chocolate Overload Cake is a must-try. As the name suggests, it’s a decadent layered cake smothered with ganache that will challenge even the biggest chocolate lovers! If you want something a little lighter and an authentic taste of Florida, try their Key Lime Tart. Whether you sit by the window and enjoy some people watching or take your sweet treats back to the airport with you, you certainly will remember these sweet treats in a hurry!

Final Thoughts…

So your foodie weekend has come to an end; I’m sure you’ll agree that with so much to offer, foodies can’t experience all of Fort Lauderdale in one weekend! This vibrant city is an excellent place for food lovers and culinary enthusiasts; whether you’re using public transport to get you from one restaurant to another, you want to try the freshest seafood, experience street food, or indulge your sweet tooth, Fort Lauderdale offers classic comforts with a contemporary twist! 

Are you planning a trip to Fort Lauderdale? How would you like to spend your time in this beautiful city? And which eateries would you like to try first?