Best Restaurants Near Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

You're in one of the best eating corridors in South Florida. From beachside fish shacks to proper steakhouses, here are the spots worth knowing near Plantation and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

Aruba Beach Cafe

Right on the sand at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Open-air, loud, and always packed on weekends. Go for the conch chowder and a cold beer while your feet are still sandy. One of the most reliably fun lunch spots on the beach.

Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlour

A Dania Beach institution since 1956. The portions are absurd in the best way. Go after dinner and bring everyone — it's the kind of place that makes a group trip feel like a group trip.

Casimir Bistro

A French bistro tucked into Lauderdale-by-the-Sea that punches well above its size. The steak frites and mussels are the move. Reservations recommended on weekends.

Coconuts

On the New River in Fort Lauderdale, with dockside seating and a menu built around fresh fish. The grouper sandwich is a local staple. Boats pull up and tie off while they eat, which is half the entertainment.

Shooters Waterfront

A Fort Lauderdale classic on the Intracoastal. Big outdoor deck, live music most nights, and a menu that covers everything from sushi to burgers. Good for a big group that can't agree on what to eat.

Truluck's

Fort Lauderdale's best upscale seafood. The stone crab claws are the reason to go, in season October through May. The bar program is serious and the service is polished without being stiff.

Rocco's Tacos

Loud, fun, and great for groups. The tableside guacamole is a ritual. Multiple locations in the area — the Fort Lauderdale spot on Las Olas is the most convenient.

Steak 954

Inside the W Fort Lauderdale on the beach. The jellyfish tank in the dining room is a conversation starter. Solid dry-aged steaks and a good wine list. Worth it for a special night out.