The Absolute Best Lunch in Fort Lauderdale [Updated 2024]

Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of tasting countless lunches in this vibrant coastal city. From hip cafes to upscale restaurants, I have explored all corners of the culinary scene to handpick only the most exceptional lunch spots for you.

Having reviewed a whopping fifteen establishments, I can confidently say that this guide is the definitive source for anyone seeking an unforgettable midday meal in Fort Lauderdale. So whether you are a visitor looking to indulge in the local flavors or a resident on the hunt for a new favorite spot, embark on this culinary journey with me and discover the best lunch experiences this city has to offer.

Lona Cocina Tequileria

Highlights
Friendly staff
Fast service
Delicious food
Fresh salsa
Talented mariachi band

First of all, I was immediately impressed with the friendly staff at Lona Cocina Tequileria. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a genuine eagerness to make sure I had a memorable experience.

The fast service at Lona Cocina Tequileria was another standout feature. Despite the restaurant being bustling with customers, my order was taken promptly and my food arrived in no time. This was a big plus, especially for those who have limited time for lunch.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the delicious food. Every bite was infused with authentic Mexican flavors that danced on my taste buds. The menu had a wide range of options, from traditional dishes to modern twists, ensuring there was something for everyone.

One highlight that cannot be overlooked is the fresh salsa. It was bursting with tangy and spicy flavors, perfectly complementing every dish. The salsa alone is reason enough to visit Lona Cocina Tequileria.

To top it all off, the ambiance was enhanced by a talented mariachi band that provided a lively and entertaining backdrop to our lunch. It added an extra element of fun and made me feel like I was truly experiencing the heart and soul of Mexico.

In conclusion, my visit to Lona Cocina Tequileria was an absolute delight. The combination of friendly staff, fast service, delicious food, fresh salsa, and a talented mariachi band made for an unforgettable lunch experience. If you find yourself in Fort Lauderdale, Lona Cocina Tequileria is a must-visit spot for a truly outstanding lunch.

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Doc B's Restaurant

Highlights
Fast service
Delicious steak sandwich
Perfectly cooked
Grilled artichokes
Fresh guacamole

Doc B's Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale truly impressed me with their exceptional lunch offerings. From the moment I arrived, the fast service stood out. In no time, I was seated and ready to embark on a culinary adventure.

The first highlight of my meal was the delicious steak sandwich. As I took my first bite, I was immediately met with a burst of flavor. The steak was perfectly cooked to a tender, juicy perfection, and the accompanying toppings elevated the dish to new heights. Each bite was a delightful combination of savory and satisfying goodness.

In addition to the steak sandwich, I also had the pleasure of trying the grilled artichokes. These were a revelation! The artichokes were expertly grilled to bring out their natural flavors, and the accompanying dipping sauce enhanced their taste even further. It was a delightful appetizer that left me craving for more.

To round off my lunch, I indulged in the fresh guacamole. The creamy texture and robust avocado flavor made it a perfect accompaniment to the main course. Each scoop was a harmonious blend of ingredients that left me wanting to savor every last bite.

Overall, Doc B's Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale offers a lunch experience that is both playful and professional. With their fast service, delicious steak sandwich, perfectly cooked grilled artichokes, and fresh guacamole, it's no wonder this establishment deserves its place among the best lunch spots in Fort Lauderdale.

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Timpano Las Olas

Highlights
Great service
Stellar dishes
Beautiful interior

Timpano Las Olas, without a doubt, offers one of the best lunch experiences in Fort Lauderdale. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with great service. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

Now let's talk about the food. Timpano Las Olas certainly knows how to deliver when it comes to stellar dishes. Every bite was bursting with flavor, each dish expertly crafted and thoughtfully presented. From their delectable appetizers to their mouthwatering main courses, every item on the menu was a culinary delight.

But it's not just about the food. The beautiful interior of Timpano Las Olas adds another layer to the overall experience. With its sophisticated decor and charming atmosphere, dining here feels like stepping into a scene from a classic Hollywood film.

Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a business lunch, catch up with friends, or simply indulge in a delicious meal, Timpano Las Olas should definitely be at the top of your list. With its combination of great service, stellar dishes, and beautiful interior, this restaurant truly stands out in the bustling Fort Lauderdale lunch scene. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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The Chimney House - Grill & Cafe

Highlights
Excellent food
Tasty ceviche
Attentive staff
Superb menu choices
Romantic atmosphere

Let me start by saying that the food at The Chimney House is truly excellent. Every bite was a delight and left me craving for more. One dish that stood out to me was their tasty ceviche. The combination of fresh seafood, tangy citrus, and a hint of spice was simply divine.

What impressed me as much as the food was the attentive staff. They were knowledgeable about the menu and provided helpful recommendations. Their friendly and efficient service made the dining experience even more enjoyable.

Speaking of the menu, it offers a plethora of options that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. From mouthwatering steaks to flavorful vegetarian options, they have it all. The superb menu choices make it a great spot for groups with diverse preferences.

One aspect that adds to the charm of The Chimney House is its romantic atmosphere. The cozy seating arrangements, dim lighting, and soft background music create the perfect ambiance for a leisurely lunch or a romantic date.

In conclusion, The Chimney House - Grill & Cafe in Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best lunch spot. With its excellent food, tasty ceviche, attentive staff, superb menu choices, and romantic atmosphere, it is definitely a place worth visiting. So, if you're looking for an unforgettable lunch experience, make sure to add The Chimney House to your must-try list!

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IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar

Highlights
Amazing and lovely atmosphere
Delicious and varied food
Professional and friendly service
Prime location on Las Olas
Fast service with pager system

IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar truly lives up to its name as one of the best lunch spots in Fort Lauderdale. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by an amazing and lovely atmosphere that transported me straight to the streets of Italy.

The menu at IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar offers a wide selection of delicious and varied food options, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. With dishes ranging from classic pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The flavors were perfectly balanced, leaving me wanting more with each bite.

One aspect that sets IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar apart from others is the professional and friendly service. The staff went above and beyond to make sure my dining experience was exceptional, providing recommendations and catering to any special requests.

Located in the heart of Las Olas, IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar boasts a prime location that is easily accessible and perfect for a lunchtime getaway. Whether you're dining with colleagues or catching up with friends, this restaurant offers the ideal setting.

In addition to the delicious food and impeccable service, IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar also offers a fast service with a convenient pager system. This ensures that you can make the most of your lunch break without sacrificing quality or flavor.

Overall, my visit to IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar was a delightful experience. From the ambiance to the food and service, everything exceeded my expectations. If you're looking for an unforgettable lunch in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than IT! Italy Ristorante & Cafe & Bar.

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Canyon Restaurant

Highlights
Consistently excellent
Great service
Many GF options
Delicious small plates
Hidden tequila bar

Let me start off by saying that Canyon Restaurant consistently delivers an excellent lunch experience. From the moment I walked in, the great service was evident, as the staff greeted me with warm smiles and promptly seated me at a cozy table.

What makes Canyon Restaurant stand out is their commitment to accommodating dietary restrictions. As someone who follows a gluten-free diet, I was thrilled to find that they offer many gluten-free options on their menu. It's wonderful to be able to enjoy a delicious lunch without worrying about compromising my health.

Now, let's talk about the food. The small plates at Canyon Restaurant are an absolute delight. Each bite is bursting with flavor and creativity, making it difficult to decide which dish I enjoyed the most. From the tender lamb sliders to the perfectly cooked shrimp ceviche, every plate was a taste sensation.

But here's the real gem: the hidden tequila bar. Tucked away in a corner of the restaurant, this intimate bar offers a wide selection of tequilas and craft cocktails. It's the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink after a satisfying meal.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best lunch in Fort Lauderdale, Canyon Restaurant is a must-visit. With their consistently excellent food, great service, abundance of gluten-free options, and the secret tequila bar, you won't be disappointed. So why wait? Grab your friends and head over to Canyon Restaurant for a lunch experience that will leave you craving for more.

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The Terrace Grill

Highlights
Amazing octopus
Friendly staff
Delicious desserts
Excellent service
Classy atmosphere

Let me start by saying that lunch at The Terrace Grill was an absolute delight! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable staff who made me feel right at home. The classy atmosphere was the cherry on top, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable lunch.

Now, let's talk about the food. The octopus at The Terrace Grill is truly amazing. Tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection, it was a true highlight of my lunch experience. The chef clearly knows how to handle seafood with finesse.

But it doesn't end there. The Terrace Grill offers an array of mouthwatering options, all prepared with utmost care and attention to detail. From delectable appetizers to hearty mains, every dish was a culinary delight. And let's not forget about the desserts! Each sweet treat was a perfect ending to an already outstanding meal.

The excellence of the food is only matched by the excellent service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was top-notch. Attentive and friendly, they truly made me feel like a valued guest.

In conclusion, should you find yourself in Fort Lauderdale and in search of the best lunch spot, look no further than The Terrace Grill. Their amazing octopus, friendly staff, delicious desserts, and excellent service will undoubtedly leave you wanting to come back for more.

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YOLO Restaurant

Highlights
Amazing Service
Delicious Food
Beautiful Venue
Good Atmosphere
Complimentary Dessert

Let me start by saying that YOLO lives up to its name! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with nothing short of amazing service. The staff was attentive and made me feel like a VIP.

Now, let's talk about the food. The menu at YOLO is a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds. From delicious starters to mouth-watering entrees, every dish was expertly prepared. The chefs at YOLO certainly know how to create a memorable lunch experience.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the venue itself was absolutely beautiful. The sleek and modern decor, combined with large windows that let in natural light, created a warm and inviting ambiance. I felt like I had stepped into a trendy hotspot in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.

Speaking of ambiance, the atmosphere at YOLO was just right. It was lively, yet not overly crowded, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. Whether you're having a business lunch or catching up with friends, YOLO is the perfect place to do so.

And here's the cherry on top, or should I say complimentary dessert? Before I left, the waiter surprised me with a sweet treat as a token of appreciation. It was a thoughtful gesture that added an extra touch of elegance to an already exceptional meal.

In conclusion, YOLO Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale is a lunch spot that truly stands out from the crowd. With its fantastic service, delectable food, stunning venue, inviting atmosphere, and even a complimentary dessert, YOLO is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best lunch in Fort Lauderdale.

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El Camino Fort Lauderdale

Highlights
Fun and lively environment
Excellent food
Smoked brisket burrito
Carnitas tacos
Great cocktails

Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, El Camino offers a fun and lively environment that is perfect for a delicious lunch. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with energetic music and a vibrant atmosphere that immediately put me in a good mood.

But enough about the ambiance, let's talk about the food! El Camino certainly did not disappoint in that department. Their menu is filled with a variety of mouth-watering options, making it a challenge to choose just one dish. However, two items stood out among the rest.

Firstly, the smoked brisket burrito. This flavorful creation will transport your taste buds straight to heaven. The tender, smoky brisket combined with the perfect blend of spices and wrapped in a warm tortilla is simply divine. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, leaving me craving more.

Next up, the carnitas tacos. These little pockets of joy are packed with tender and juicy pork, topped with fresh salsa and a hint of lime. The combination of textures and flavors in these tacos was truly outstanding, making them a must-try for any taco lover.

To wash down this delectable feast, El Camino offers a range of great cocktails. From classic margaritas to innovative concoctions, there's a drink for everyone's taste.

In conclusion, El Camino in Fort Lauderdale is a lunch destination that should not be missed. With its fun atmosphere, excellent food, and standout dishes like the smoked brisket burrito and carnitas tacos, it has easily earned its place among the best lunch spots in the city.

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Floridian Restaurant

Highlights
Reasonably priced
Good breakfast
Quick service
Amazing pancakes
Nice service

Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Floridian Restaurant offers a delightful lunch experience at a reasonable price. As I sat down, I was instantly impressed by the quick and efficient service.

The menu at Floridian Restaurant is quite diverse, but what caught my attention was the mention of their amazing pancakes. Although it was lunchtime, I couldn't resist trying them. Trust me, it was a decision I didn't regret!

The pancakes were fluffy, golden, and perfectly cooked. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported into a world of brunch goodness. Paired with a side of maple syrup, the pancakes were simply divine. It's safe to say that Floridian Restaurant knows how to make a mean pancake.

Not only were the pancakes exceptional, but the overall dining experience was also elevated by the nice service. The staff was attentive, ensuring my needs were met while giving friendly recommendations. Whether you're a local or a visitor, you're made to feel right at home.

Although my focus was on lunch, it's worth mentioning that Floridian Restaurant also offers a good breakfast. So, if you're looking for a spot to cure your morning hunger, Floridian Restaurant is an excellent choice.

In conclusion, Floridian Restaurant lived up to its reputation as a top-notch lunch spot in Fort Lauderdale. With its reasonably priced and delicious food, quick service, and warm atmosphere, it's undoubtedly one of the best options in town. So, don't forget to add Floridian Restaurant to your list of must-try lunch spots in Fort Lauderdale!

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Foxy Brown

Highlights
Good quality food
Excellent service
Nice extra touch with steamed towels
Delicious shrimp salad
Great parking service

Foxy Brown in Fort Lauderdale is certainly a hidden gem when it comes to lunch options. From the moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The staff greeted me with smiles and were quick to seat me at a cozy table.

The quality of the food at Foxy Brown is simply impeccable. Every dish I tried was bursting with flavor and made with the utmost care. One standout was the delicious shrimp salad. The freshness of the ingredients and the perfectly cooked shrimp made it an absolute delight to eat.

What truly sets Foxy Brown apart from other lunch spots in Fort Lauderdale is their excellent service. The staff were attentive, ensuring that my water glass was always full and that my needs were met. As an added bonus, they even provided steamed towels to freshen up before and after the meal - a nice extra touch that made the dining experience feel all the more luxurious.

Another aspect that impressed me about Foxy Brown was their parking service. Many restaurants in Fort Lauderdale can be a hassle to find parking, but Foxy Brown offers great parking service. I didn't have to worry about circling the block endlessly or navigating tight parking lots - they made it convenient and stress-free.

In conclusion, Foxy Brown is a must-visit lunch spot in Fort Lauderdale. Their good quality food, excellent service, and nice extra touch with steamed towels truly make it a standout choice. So, next time you're in Fort Lauderdale and looking for the best lunch, make sure to give Foxy Brown a try. You won't be disappointed.

Primanti Brothers Pizza and Grill

Highlights
Amazing pastrami and cheese sandwich
Fresh and tasty pizza
Fluffy and delicious sandwich bread
Excellent service
Open 24/7

Let me start by saying, "Wow!" Primanti Brothers Pizza and Grill in Fort Lauderdale truly exceeded my expectations when it comes to finding the best lunch in town.

One highlight that stood out to me was their amazing pastrami and cheese sandwich. The combination of tender pastrami, melted cheese, and the perfect amount of spices created a mouthwatering explosion of flavors. I could easily tell that the ingredients were fresh and of high quality.

The pizza at Primanti Brothers was also a highlight of my visit. It was clear that they took pride in their pizza-making craft. Each slice was topped with a generous amount of toppings, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. The crust was crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, leaving me craving for more.

The service at Primanti Brothers was exceptional. The staff was attentive, friendly, and had excellent knowledge of the menu. They were more than happy to help with any questions or special requests, which added to the overall pleasant dining experience.

One major advantage of Primanti Brothers is the fact that they are open 24/7. Whether you're in the mood for a late-night snack or an early lunch, they're always ready to serve you.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable lunch experience in Fort Lauderdale, I highly recommend Primanti Brothers Pizza and Grill. Their amazing pastrami and cheese sandwich, fresh and tasty pizza, fluffy sandwich bread, excellent service, and 24/7 availability make it a top contender for the title of the best lunch spot in town.

O-B House - Fort Lauderdale

Highlights
Excellent service
Delicious pancakes
Hot and delicious omelets
Reasonably priced
Amazing and friendly staff

Let me start by saying that O-B House has truly earned its reputation as one of the best lunch spots in Fort Lauderdale. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the most amazing and friendly staff, who made me feel right at home.

The first thing that caught my attention was the excellent service provided by the staff. They were attentive, accommodating, and went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

Now, let's talk about the food. O-B House specializes in breakfast and brunch, and boy, do they know how to make a mean breakfast. I couldn't resist ordering their famous pancakes, and let me tell you, they were a game-changer. Fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, these pancakes were a true indulgence.

But O-B House doesn't stop at pancakes. Their omelets are also hot and delicious, filled to the brim with savory ingredients that leave your taste buds begging for more. I couldn't get enough of the mouthwatering combinations they offered.

One of the most pleasant surprises about O-B House was how reasonably priced their menu was. Despite the top-notch quality of their food and service, my bill left me pleasantly surprised.

In conclusion, O-B House is a must-visit for anyone searching for the best lunch in Fort Lauderdale. With their excellent service, delicious pancakes and hot and delicious omelets, you won't be disappointed. Plus, the friendly and welcoming atmosphere created by the amazing staff adds that extra touch to make your dining experience truly memorable. So next time you're in Fort Lauderdale, I highly recommend stopping by O-B House for a breakfast or brunch that will leave you craving more.

Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria

Highlights
Yummy food
Great service
Cozy atmosphere
Delicious pizza
Strawberry basil martini

Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria in Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem for lunch seekers. From the moment I stepped through the door, I knew I was in for a treat. The cozy atmosphere immediately made me feel at home, while the attentive and friendly staff added a touch of warmth to the experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, was it a delight for the taste buds! The menu boasted an array of options, making it difficult to choose just one. However, the pizza caught my eye, and boy, am I glad it did! The thin, crispy crust, specially imported Italian ingredients, and perfect balance of flavors made each bite a little slice of heaven. Truly, this is pizza done right.

But it wasn't just the pizza that stole the show. The menu offered a variety of options, all of which were executed to perfection. From the homemade pastas to the fresh seafood, every dish was lovingly prepared and beautifully presented. The attention to detail was evident in every bite.

As for the drinks, I must mention their strawberry basil martini. It was a refreshing and unique twist on a classic cocktail, perfectly complementing the flavors of the dishes.

All in all, Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best lunch in Fort Lauderdale. With its delicious food, great service, and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant provides an unforgettable dining experience. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Coconuts

Highlights
Busy and lively atmosphere
Top-notch wings
Excellent chicken sammich
Fresh seafood options
Friendly and helpful staff

Let me start by saying that if you're looking for a lunch spot with a busy and lively atmosphere, Coconuts is the place to be. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the vibrant energy of both the staff and the customers.

Now, let's talk about the food. One thing that immediately caught my attention was their top-notch wings. Tossed in flavorful sauces and cooked to perfection, these wings were finger-lickin' good. Whether you like them spicy or tangy, Coconuts has got you covered.

Another standout item on their menu was the excellent chicken sammich. Tender, juicy, and piled high with delectable ingredients, this sandwich was a taste sensation. The combination of flavors and textures made each bite a pure delight.

For all the seafood lovers out there, Coconuts also offers a variety of fresh seafood options. From succulent shrimp to mouthwatering fish tacos, every dish showcased the quality and freshness of the ingredients.

I must mention the friendly and helpful staff who went above and beyond to ensure that I had an enjoyable dining experience. Their knowledge of the menu and their recommendations only added to the overall satisfaction of the meal.

In conclusion, if you're in Fort Lauderdale and on the hunt for the best lunch, do yourself a favor and head to Coconuts. With their lively atmosphere and a menu that boasts outstanding wings, excellent chicken sammiches, and fresh seafood options, you won't be disappointed. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.