Where to eat.
Ditch the diet and get a real taste of Greater Fort Lauderdale, where culinary temptation ranges from Floribbean cuisine to ethnic specialties from around the globe. Meet, greet and eat at restaurants that combine fun and flavor. Steal the scene indoors or watch the scenery float by as you dine alfresco along the waterfront.
"As kd lang coos 'Just a kiss...just a kiss,' I peer up from my Bleu Boy Burger to see a lesbian couple feeding each other the Mary Tyler S'mores. To their right, a slightly more health-conscious muscle queen polishes off the Carmen Miranda fruit bowl. I'm convinced that if Disney World is the happiest place on earth, then this beachside mecca far south of Orlando must be the gayest place on earth."
--- Christopher Muther, Boston Globe
Print PageBONA CAFE
- 2468 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors, 954-565-7222
- Locals call for pizza pickup and delivery. Dine-in selections include pasta, stromboli and well prepared seafood.
CANYON RESTAURANT
- 1818 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-765-1950
- American, $$$
- Open: Dinner Mon-Thurs 5:30pm-10:30pm, Dinner Fri-Sat 5:30pm-11pm, Dinner Sun 5:30pm-10pm. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day & the 4th of July (unless it's on a Fri or Sat). OPEN on New Years Eve.
- An oasis of inspired Southwestern fusion, we consistently serve an innovative and surprising array of modern Southwestern cuisine with Asian, South and Central American undertones. Chipotle, wasabi, ginger, cilantro, lemongrass, basil, jalapeño, mango and red chilies accent the freshest seafood and wild game available. Seductive lighting and a constantly evolving mix of music enhances your dining experience and keeps the intimate space filled with a captivating and energized clientele every night. Immerse yourself in the ambiance as you savor one of Canyon's notorious Prickly Pear Margaritas. Zagat Rated '09. Happy Hour Sun. - Fri. 5:30pm - 7pm.
- Average Dining Cost: $30
CHINA GRILL AT HILTON FORT LAUDERDALE MARINA
- 1881 S.E. 17th St., 1881 SE 17th Street Fort Lauderdale, 954-759-9950
- Asian, $$$
- Open: Breakfast Daily 7am-11am, Dinner Sun-Thurs 6pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 6pm-12am.
- Overlooking the soothing Intracoastal Waterway, the restaurant's interior reflects the natural beauty of its locale - warm reds, oranges and yellows evoke the glorious Floridian sunsets, while soft greens, blues and ceruleans play off the cool tones of the water. Comprised of over 40 dishes: each artistically prepared, dramatically presented and designed for sharing.
- Average Dining Cost: $26-79
FLORIDIAN RESTAURANT
- 1410 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 954-761-3433
- American, $$
- Open: 24/7
- 50's American Diner. Everything from steaks and fresh seafood to breakfast items and wraps.
GALANGA THAI KITCHEN & SUSHI BAR
- 2389 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors, 954-202-0000
- Asian, $$
- Open: Mon-Thurs 11:30am-10:30pm, Fri 11:30am-11pm, Sat 1:30pm-11pm, Sun 5pm-10:30pm.
- Inviting setting for fresh sushi and Thai flavors. Zagat Rated Extraordinary 2006, 2007.
- Average Dining Cost: Lunch $12, Dinner $14-$30
GEORGIE'S ALIBI
- 2266 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors, 954-565-2526
- $$
- A comfortable, inviting atmosphere where the menu is delicious and the party never ends. Video bar inside, patio areas outside.
GRANDMA'S ICE CREAM PARLOR & FRENCH CAFE
- 3354 N. Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-564-3671
- Served in a stuffed crepe, cone, or as a shake, choose your favorite of the 24 ice cream flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth. Special savories include cinnamon, coffee chip low fat, maple walnut, Kahula fudge low fat and sherbet.
HI-LIFE CAFE
- 3000 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, 954-563-1395
- American, $$
- Open: Tues-Thurs 5:30pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 5:30pm-11pm, Sun 5:30-9pm. Closed Mondays.
- An intimate restaurant featuring fine food and great ambiance. Sip cocktails while seated in a sofa. Dine by candlelight. Reservations welcomed. A Zagat rated "Top 40" favorite.
- Average Dining Cost: $17
HUMPYS PIZZA & PANINI
- 2244 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, 954-566-2722
- American, $
- Open: Sun-Wed 11am-10pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-2am.
- Dine-in or take out, curbside delivery available.
J. ALEXANDER'S
- 2451 N. Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, 954-563-9077
- American, $$
- Open: 11:30am- 10pm Sun-Thurs, 11pm, Fri& Sat.
- Award-winning menu features hardwood-grilled steaks, baby back ribs, salmon, daily fresh seafood selections, soups, entrée salads, burgers and sandwiches. Known for award-winning prime rib of beef and baby back ribs, as well as outstanding desserts made from scratch. Southern Exposure Magazine Award Recipient: Best in Fine Dining, Best Business Lunch, Best Service/Wait Staff and Best Dessert.
- Average Dining Cost: $23
LA BAMBA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
- 4245 N. Federal Hwy., Oakland Park, 954-568-5662
- Mexican, $
- Open: Sun-Thurs 11:30am-10:30pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm.
- La Bamba specializes in authentic Mexican food, served in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Menu features made-to-order items that use only the freshest ingredients available. Everything served is made in front of you, as it is ordered. Monday is Margarita night.
- Average Dining Cost: $5-$15
LIPS (gay-friendly)
- 1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Oakland Park, 954-567-0987
- Enjoy dinner and a drag show. Shows begin at 8:15pm Tue-Sun. Sun brunch performances at noon and 3pm. Cover charges of $5 Thurs-Sat; $3 on Sun. No covers the rest of the week. $15 food minimum all nights.
MARIO'S CATALINA RESTAURANT
- 1611 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale, 954-563-4141
- Spanish/Cuban, $$
- Open: Lunch Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 4pm-11pm.
- Cuban food and Spanish cuisine including seafood dishes, New York strip steak, plantains, fine wine and Mojitos. Mario will be sure to greet you at the door!
PETER PAN DINER
- 1216 E. Oakland Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-565-7177
- Greek restaurant, bakery and lounge with a full liquor bar. Open since 1978, this casual diner is famous for their landmark location, large portions and great prices. Open 24 hours, 365 days a year.
ROSIE'S BAR & GRILL
- 2449 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors, 954-567-1320
- $
- Cozy atmosphere, lots of great burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads and snacks. Casual dining indoors or on their large covered outdoor patio. Full liquor bar. Brunch every Sun 10am-2pm.
SHAWN & NICK'S COURTYARD CAFE
- 2211 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors, 954-563-2499
- Offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a come-as-you-are attitude. Enjoy the pleasures of food expertly prepared and the company of good friends.
SIAM CUISINE
- 2010 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, 954-564-3411
- Asian, $$
- Open: Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm. Dinner 7days 5pm-10:30pm.
- A smooth and professional wait staff guides newcomers and experienced diners through pristine versions of old Thai favorites, sushi, and a few new dishes as well.
- Average Dining Cost: $18
SIMPLY DELISH
- 2287 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, 954-565-8646
- Healthy, casual neighborhood eatery serving breakfast and lunch. Well known for eggs benedict, black angus burgers, chicken salad and Albacore tuna salad.
STONEWALL TAVERN (gay-friendly)
- 200 N Broadwalk, Hollywood, 954-922-7993
- Located on the historic Hollywood Broadwalk steps away from the sun and sand. Offering the best drinks and food on the beach. Beachside dining and entertainment to the Gay and Lesbian community.
STORK'S BAKERY-COFFEE-CAFE
- 2505 NE 15th Avenue, Wilton Manors, 954-567-3220
- American, $
- Open: Mon-Fri 6:30am-12am, Sat-Sun 7am-12am.
- Unique combination of upscale coffee house, full bakery and bistro cafe serving specialty coffees, gourmet sandwiches and pastries. Located in Wilton Manors, just minutes from Fort Lauderdale. Indoor/outdoor dining.
TEQUILA SUNRISE
- 4711 N. Dixie Hwy., Oakland Park, 954-938-4473
- Fine Mexican cuisine served with unique homemade sauces.
TROPICS (gay)
- 2000 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, 954-537-6000
- Relax in style at one of Fort Lauderdale's oldest bars. Catering to a more mature crowd. Friendly bartenders, good times, and great prices. Live music on certain nights.
