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Fort Lauderdale: Restaurants

Gone are the days when Fort Lauderdale dining was little more than greasy-spoon diners on the budget end and surf-and-turf on the fancy end. Among the 3,500-plus local restaurants, interesting options ranging from Brazilian to Thai are springing up like porcini mushrooms all over the county. And don't be put off by a fancy restaurant in a strip mall: Outside the Las Olas pedestrian corridor, that kind of setting is pretty common. Whenever possible, call ahead and make reservations, especially at the hotter spots along Las Olas Boulevard and A1A.

= Smart Splurge

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ALL
EXPENSIVE
MODERATE
BUDGET

Blue Moon Fish Co.
Watch yachts cruise by from an elegant dockside table while dining on super-fresh seafood. Sunday's brunch buffet ($29.95) is...
smart splurge | seafood | waterfront

Canyon
The upscale southwestern fare (brie quesadillas, ancho chili chicken) and signature prickly-pear margaritas are best savored...
romantic | southwestern

Mark at Las Olas
Mark’s impeccable wine selection, great service, and ever-changing menu of nouveau American favorites titillate all of...
smart splurge | notable wine list | notable chef

Casablanca Cafe
Tropical dishes like lobster salad on Bimini bread and sautéed grouper complement the ocean views from this renovated...
seafood | patio

Greek Islands Taverna
Join the locals for saganaki (brandy-flamed cheese), chicken ladoregano with lemon and olive oil, and other tasty Greek...
local favorite | greek

Croissan'Time
Drool over the cases of homemade cakes, fruit tarts, quiches, and croissants while queuing up at this authentic French bakery.
bakery | dessert

Le Tub
Locals groaned when Oprah discovered the divine mega-burgers at this worth-a-drive outdoor dive. Weeknights are better for...
local favorite | waterfront