With miles of gorgeous beaches and a vibrant nightlife, Fort Lauderdale is a great place to dine out. Attracted by the sun and sand, people from all around the globe flock here to make authentic ethnic food available on every corner. Ft. Lauderdale is a seafood lover’s paradise, with many restaurants offering catch of the day specials and beach side dining.
South Florida is home to the best Cuban cuisine off the island. Enjoy ropa vieja, a classic Cuban dish made from tender shredded beef nestled among peppers and onions a tomato based sauce. Or try a media noche sandwich made with ham, pork, swiss cheese, and pickles served on crusty Cuban bread. Savor either with a side of plantains or black beans and rice.
For a taste from another island, sample Jamaican food. Made from baked pastry, stuffed with richly spiced beef, a Jamaican beef patty is a delicious food to grab on the run. Pair it with a Red Stripe beer and some coco bread for a carb-filled taste of island heaven. The adventurous palate will be rewarded in trying oxtail, surprisingly flavorful and tender meat. Fresh fruit juice using papayas, mangoes, and pineapple is another highlight of Jamaican cuisine.
For a unique atmosphere and good seafood, here are three local favorites to try. Cap’s Place is the county’s oldest restaurant. Situated on an island, it can only be reached by ferry. The Sea Watch restaurant offers fresh seafood and enjoys the advantage of being built right on the beach, with wooden shutters that can be raised to enjoy the salty sea breeze. The iconic Riverside Hotel offers one of the best patios for people watching in Ft. Lauderdale.
This is a small taste of the myriad of dining options in Fort Lauderdale. Stay a while and discover your own favorite places to eat in the Venice of America.