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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Fort Lauderdale

Cool spots

A space that feels genuinely interesting without trying too hard to be trendy.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Elvis Italian Grille - Dania Beach image 1
Elvis Italian Grille - Dania Beach image 2
Elvis Italian Grille - Dania Beach image 3
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Italian restaurant offers cozy, warm atmosphere with live entertainment including violin and fire performances. Decor blends classic and modern styles, featuring an outdoor patio with canal views. Energy stays romantic and classy, creating a welcoming dining experience.

Chef from Milan brings authentic Italian flavors with dishes like clams and mussels in a delicious white sauce. Ingredients come straight from Italy, making the food truly full of flavor and generous in portion.

Vibe feels cool and vibrant with a fun mural in the back and super friendly staff. Atmosphere stays quiet yet lively.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the pasta."

"The Spaghetti Carbonara is authentic, made with guanciale and no cream."

"The Spaghetti Carbonara is ultra-creamy and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night is on Thursdays starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Happy hour features half-price drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The restaurant has ample parking available, even during busy hours.

02
Lasso Kosher Grill image 1

Outdoor dining on a rustic horse farm creates a campy, cozy vibe with picnic tables and fire pits for making s'mores. Families gather around to enjoy petting zoos and horse rides, while the atmosphere stays relaxed and intimate for both family nights and dates.

Argentinian dishes feature authentic flavors and high-quality meat, especially in the milanesa and chorizo. The kosher barbecue offers a rich, traditional taste that reflects genuine Argentinean cuisine.

A farm setting with horses creates a unique backdrop for dining at a campsite. The place carries a cool and hippie vibe with music adding to the atmosphere on Thursday nights.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The vibe here is super cool and different."

"I found the chorizo to be the most authentic and delicious I had in years."

Good to know

1

Live music starts around 7 PM on Thursday nights; make reservations accordingly.

2

Reservations are recommended for Thursday nights due to live music.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on Thursday nights with live music.

03
Pummarola Fort Lauderdale "Pizza Napoletana" image 1

Open kitchen with visible pizza oven and pizza-making classes create an interactive dining experience. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and welcoming, with staff engaging guests warmly. Decor features red, white, and black colors and Fiat 500 themes, adding distinctive Italian charm.

Pizza follows Neapolitan tradition with authentic flavors and textures. Italian dishes serve authentic cuisine that reflects traditional recipes and tastes.

Atmosphere feels laid back and trendy, with a vibe that suits casual hangouts. The environment comes across as Instagram-worthy and fun.

People are saying

"I learned so much making this amazing pizza."

"I found the pizza here to be authentic Neapolitan style."

"The atmosphere here is cool, laid back, and trendy."

Good to know

1

On Mondays, the margherita pizzas cost $6.

2

Wednesday night pasta costs $6.

3

The pizza making classes are fun and great for celebrating children's birthdays.

04
Emily's Garden image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor garden space offers a cozy vintage atmosphere with live music enhancing a relaxed vibe. Several stations serve varied drinks and food, including artisanal beers and gelato. The setting suits pleasant, leisurely meals with options for families and groups.

Authentic thin-crust Italian pizza features freshest ingredients and Neapolitan dishes made with care. Sides with fish complement the genuine Italian flavors throughout the menu.

A calm and quiet spot with a super cool courtyard and great outdoor vibes. Fans and shade keep the atmosphere comfortable and relaxed.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and super fresh."

"The pizza here is so authentic, just like Napoli."

"The staff here are super friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events and busy weekends.

2

The yoga class is held every first Sunday of the month.

3

Wine tasting events occur regularly, featuring rotating selections.

05
Clase Azul Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, playful decor and a stunning bar create an open, elegant space with strong Mexican vibes. Live music energizes the atmosphere, ranging from lively DJ sets to engaging performances. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine paired with spectacular margaritas in a warm, inviting environment.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines through in every dish, with flavors that are simple and full. The vibrant atmosphere features colorful murals and authentic decor, enhancing the immersive experience.

Vibrant blues, whites, and earthy tones shape a cool vibe that mirrors a Clase Azul bottle. Specialty drinks arrive in cool presentations and taste refreshing, matching the thoughtful food and drink menu.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, authentic, and tasty."

"I found the food to be amazing and authentic."

"The food here is incredible, especially the flavorful burrito loco."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 7pm with great food options.

2

Live mariachi band performs on Wednesdays from 6โ€“9pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like New Year's Eve.

06
Taco Vibez at Marina Village image 1

Outdoor seating overlooks a marina with water and boats, creating a beautiful waterfront setting. The atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed, with tasteful music masking nearby traffic noise. The vibe attracts those seeking a cool, enjoyable place to unwind after beach time.

Tacos serve up authentic Mexican style flavors. Staff of Hispanic descent adds to the genuine vibe.

Vibe feels cool and relaxed with an enjoyable atmosphere. It stands out as a cool spot to hang out.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The tacos here are authentic Mexican style."

"The vibe here is so cool and relaxed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour includes drinks priced at $20 or more; appetizers are higher.

2

Public parking is available across the street for a fee.

3

Outdoor seating is available for enjoying meals by the harbor.

07
El Tiesto Cafe Fort Lauderdale image 1
Latin American restaurant

Industrial-style space with neon accents and artwork blending Dominican and Japanese culture creates a beautifully decorated setting. Music by a live DJ features a variety of Latinx genres, turning the venue into a mini club atmosphere after dinner. The vibe is energetic and lively, with a strong focus on entertainment.

Authentic Dominican dishes offer a homemade taste with filling portions. The menu presents a delightful array that keeps the food genuinely true to its roots.

Original decor and cool lighting create a unique vibe. The music and overall atmosphere add to the cool feel of the place.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are super good."

"The dinner spots blend Dominican and Japanese flavors, like the La Chapi Roll."

"I thought the food was genuinely authentic, like homemade."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm with half-price drinks and appetizers.

2

On Wednesdays, enjoy 2-for-1 sushi specials.

3

Free shots are offered every hour during happy hour.

08
Tamarindo Harbor Italian Bar & Grill image 1

Interior resembles an opulent mansion with chandeliers and luxurious dining rooms. Live music performances create an engaging atmosphere, though volume varies. Upscale cocktails and Italian dishes complement the warm, clean design and occasional VIP lounge privacy.

Food features fresh ingredients and incredible flavors that capture authentic Italian cuisine. Dishes come beautifully presented and full of flavor, delivering a genuine Italian dining experience.

Dim lighting and smooth tunes set a relaxing atmosphere with a vibe reminiscent of the Amalfi coast. A VIP lounge offers privacy with upscale lighting and seating, while live music adds to the cool ambiance.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well thought out."

"I loved the authentic Italian food, made from scratch with fresh ingredients."

"The food here is incredible, truly delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 3 to 7 PM with two-for-one drink specials.

2

Live music occurs on Friday and Saturday nights from 7 PM until close.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekends due to live music events.

09
Casa Monarca Mexican Restaurant & Tequila Bar image 1

Mexican restaurant with vibrant Mexican decor and live mariachi music creates a festive, warm atmosphere. Celebrations feature spotlights and flaming tequila shots, turning the space lively and energetic. The setting balances authentic culture with a cozy, artistic design.

Food offers rich, authentic flavors with generous portions. Atmosphere reflects authentic Mexican style, creating a beautiful and inviting setting.

Decor stands out as very cool and interesting. Artwork adds to the vibe, and the drink selection is great. Birthday celebrations get special attention.

People are saying

"Felipe's amazing service and great food recommendations made my experience special."

"The food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"I thought the food was delicious and well prepared."

Good to know

1

Wednesday features all-day happy hour, making it the best day to visit.

2

Friday nights include karaoke and a mariachi band performance.

3

On birthdays, guests can wear a sombrero and enjoy special celebrations.

10
Waxy's Irish Pub image 1

Irish pub with authentic Irish materials and multiple TVs showing football and rugby creates a lively yet low-key sports bar vibe. Live music adds a pleasant soundtrack without overwhelming the space. Regulars enjoy fresh Guinness and a menu featuring hearty dishes like brisket and mushroom pie.

Authentic Irish food and drinks feature prominently, including a shepherd's pie and a St Patty's day menu. The atmosphere stays lively and genuine, especially during international soccer matches.

A bar with a Cheers TV show vibe creates a unique and welcoming atmosphere. Cool people and creative bar tables add to the laid-back, friendly hangout feel.

People are saying

"The pub's fish and chips were amazing, perfectly crisp and not greasy."

"I found the Irish food here to be authentic, flavorful, and satisfying."

"The food here is awesome and the drinks came out quickly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 7pm with great food and drink deals.

2

On Mondays, Fish and Chips cost only $12.

3

Waxy's hosts events for Premier League matches, F1, Rugby, and World Cup.

11
Nanou French Bakery & Cafรฉ image 1

French-style bakery and cafรฉ offers friendly French vibe with beautiful back patio and whimsical outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels calming and cozy, resembling a small European courtyard. Indoor and outdoor spaces provide a relaxed setting for breakfast and pastries.

Strong French character shines through every dish with authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Warm hospitality from the French owners adds a personal touch to the authentic baking experience.

Old trees provide shade and cool breezes at the outdoor tables. The atmosphere carries a cool French vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good, especially the Red Eye."

"The French pastries here taste just like they're from France."

"This place's coffee is strong and robust, truly cool."

Good to know

1

The last kitchen orders are at 2:30 PM, and the cafรฉ closes at 3 PM.

2

Expect to pay a premium for breakfast items, as prices are on the higher side.

3

The cafรฉ does not offer free coffee refills.

12
Lester's Diner image 1

Old-school diner with 50s neon glow and shiny chrome decor offers a spacious seating area and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Music and lush plants on the porch add to the classic charm. Open 24 hours, it blends vintage style with modern comfort.

A 50s neon glow sets the scene with a 100% authentic American diner atmosphere. Staff treat everyone like a regular, serving old-fashioned style food with quality, supple portions.

A clean and cool diner vibe sets the tone here. The atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting, making it a great spot to hang out.

People are saying

"I thought the food here tasted great and was well done."

"I experienced a truly authentic diner atmosphere, like on TV."

"It's a cool place with a great diner vibe."

Good to know

1

Lester's Diner is one of the last 24-hour diners in South Florida.

2

Breakfast is served all day.

3

Happy hour offers a 1+1 deal on beer.

13
Puya Urban Cantina image 1

Stunning space with authentic Mexican style and whimsical, funky decor creates an energetic, warm, and lively atmosphere. Latino music fills the air, making the environment feel like a party with dancing. Multiple screens show games, attracting groups for celebrations and social gatherings.

Dishes feature authentic flavors with perfectly spiced tacos and rich quesadillas. Chef Oscar blends Central American flavors with both authenticity and innovation.

Service feels super cool and friendly. The vibe is fun and cool with great food.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be excellent and really tasty."

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful, especially the Birria and Carne Asada."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool and energetic."

Good to know

1

Making reservations in advance is key because the place is very busy.

2

Taco Tuesday features special deals and is a popular event.

3

Expect to pay around $50 for two people, including drinks.

14
Askaneli Restaurant & Steakhouse image 1

Georgian restaurant with authentic music and a cozy, home-like atmosphere. Features an outdoor terrace with hookah and live music on weekends. Offers beautiful views of the river and marina from the outdoor seating areas.

Dishes come with authentic Georgian flavors that taste fresh and homemade. The atmosphere includes authentic music and a cozy, relaxing vibe that matches the food.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and thoughtfully prepared."

"The Georgian food here is authentic and outstanding."

"The food here is delicious, especially the lamb dumplings and cheesy flatbread."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, adding a fun twist to the experience.

2

Themed evenings on Thursdays vary each week, offering different entertainment.

3

Live music is featured three times a week, including karaoke on Thursdays.

15
Cafe Martorano image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with a discoteca vibe and classic disco music playing, creating a loud, party atmosphere. Owner acts as DJ, mixing music live, while vintage movies and murals add to the unique ambiance. Booth seating above the bar offers views of the lively scene below.

Dishes showcase authentic Italian-American flavors with top quality fresh ingredients. The food is rich, bold, and offers a genuine Italian dining experience.

Loud music plays, letting people sing along and dance in their seats. Walls show murals and TVs play Frank Sinatra movies, creating a cool, old-school Italian vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and fresh."

"These meatballs taste like Nana's, made with authentic Italian flavor."

"The food here is rich, bold, and unapologetically authentic Italian-American."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service.

2

Parking in designated spots may result in tickets.

3

Expect high prices, with pasta dishes around $48.

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Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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