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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Lauderdale by the Sea

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69 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Rainbow Palace restaurant
1. Rainbow Palace
4.9
Exceptional(1890)
$$$$
• Asian • Coral Ridge
Booked 20 times today
The Rainbow Palace offers a dining experience rarely equaled. From the fusion of traditional Chinese Cuisine with European influences, to the impeccable service, this will be an experience not forgotten. Top Rated by Zagat’s, rated 4 Diamond by AAA for 16 years; there is a full bar available, with a world class wine list. Relax and enjoy!
A photo of Eddie V's - Fort Lauderdale restaurant
2. Eddie V's - Fort Lauderdale
4.9
Exceptional(3615)
$$$$
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 110 times today
Eddie V's Prime Seafood is a luxury dining destination known for the seafood flown in from pristine waters around the world, as well as its premium hand-carved steaks. Dishes are artistically prepared and feature an ever-changing array of seasonal seafood, along with critically acclaimed prime center-cut steaks broiled to perfection. The restaurant's award-wining wine list, which has been recognized by Wine Spectator, has more than 300 wines curated by Eddie V's very own Advanced Sommelier. In the V Lounge, guests can sip classic and creative cocktails, and enjoy signature appetizers against a backdrop of live music trios.
A photo of Martorano's restaurant
3. Martorano's
4.8
Exceptional(5542)
$$$$
• Italian • Galt Mile
Booked 20 times today
Martorano’s has been in business In Fort Lauderdale for 34 years, recognized by Gourmet Magazine for having the "Best Meatball in the World." It’s one of the few restaurants where the owner still works in the open kitchen, bringing an authentic touch to every dish. On select evenings, he also DJs, spinning classic Philly tunes starting at 10:00 p.m. The restaurant is home to the only Water Ice Martini in the country and showcases Italian-American films to celebrate its cultural roots. The Original Martorano’s offers a dining experience like no other.
A photo of Thai Spice restaurant
4. Thai Spice
4.8
Exceptional(311)
$$$$
• Thai • Lauderdale by the Sea
Booked 20 times today
Exotic Thai -Fresh Local Seafood- Prime Steaks South Florida Ultimate Dining Destination. 5 Star Diamond award, Zagat’sTop 10 restaurants in South Florida. Full bar-4 private dining rooms - where the locals eat.Established 1989 family owned operated.No reservations accepted for Happy Hour Promo; Monday-Friday 5PM-7PM.NOTE: Happy Hour seating is on a first come, first serve basis. No reservations will be honored for Happy Hour, with the exception of parties of 7 or more. Happy Hour parties of 7 or more must be made 24 hours prior by calling (954) 771- 4535 and speaking with one of our front desk representatives.
A photo of El Vez-Ft. Lauderdale restaurant
5. El Vez-Ft. Lauderdale
4.5
Awesome(1379)
$$$$
• Mexican • Central Beach
Booked 17 times today
Stephen Starr brings traditional Mexican fare with a touch of Baja flavor to sunny South Florida.**Reservations accepted for in-door dining only. Our terrace seating is first come-first serve based on availability and weather permitting.**
A photo of Cafe Maxx restaurant
6. Cafe Maxx
4.9
Exceptional(1952)
$$$$
• American • Pompano Beach
Booked 15 times today
Fine dining establishment for almost three decades. Since 1984, Darrel and Oliver's Cafe Maxx has been delighting patrons with their innovative, award-winning cuisine. This landmark restaurant destination is the premier dining choice among South Florida's power brokers and gourmands, who desire impeccable food served in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Stylish yet unpretentious, Cafe Maxx offers a hip outside patio, a cozy bar and an energetic dining room.
A photo of North Italia - Fort Lauderdale restaurant
7. North Italia - Fort Lauderdale
4.4
Awesome(380)
$$$$
• Italian • Victoria Park
Booked 33 times today
North Italia in Fort Lauderdale is definitely worth the drive. It's praised for its delicious, crave-worthy Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients. Reviewers consistently highlight the 'amazing food', 'great service', and 'nice ambiance'. One even noted the restaurant 'surpassed expectations' with its 'authentic ambiance' and 'diverse menu'. With high overall ratings and positive feedback, it's clear that North Italia is a hit among diners.
A photo of RGS Steakhouse restaurant
8. RGS Steakhouse
4.7
Exceptional(178)
$$$$
• Steakhouse • Pompano Beach
Booked 12 times today
Who we are: a authentic Brazilian Steakhouse serving the world famous Rodizio!Once seated, guests can then begin their dining experience by helping themselves to our seasonal salad area. You will find this is a steakhouse that even vegetarians love.This Brazilian-inspired restaurant specializes in slow-roasted and perfectly seasoned cuts of beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and Brazilian sausage. This technique comes to the United States straight from Southern Brazil, where Gauchos (cowboys) prepare meals over a campfire. At RGS Steakhouse, the skilled gauchos journey through the restaurant with the grilled meats on sword-like skewers taken directly off the grill, stopping at each table to carve slices for diners. This style of service allows guests to experience a wide variety of offerings, including the following mouth-watering selections: Picanha, Flank Steak, Ribeye Steak, Leg of Lamb, Parmesan Pork Loin, Sirloin Steak, Chicken, Sausage and more!
A photo of Motek Boca Raton restaurant
9. Motek Boca Raton
4.5
Awesome(98)
$$$$
• Mediterranean • Boca Raton
Booked 47 times today
Welcome to Motek, Miami’s beloved Mediterranean restaurant, where vibrant flavors meet a lively atmosphere. Rooted in cherished family recipes and fresh, seed-oil free cooking, our kosher-style menu brings a modern twist to tradition. From our award-winning burger and signature shakshuka to whole Mediterranean branzino, house-baked pita, and creamy hummus, every dish is made to share and savor.Whether you’re joining us for a sunny all-day brunch, a relaxed lunch, or a festive dinner with cocktails and zero-proof creations, Motek is the perfect setting for every occasion. Come experience the warmth, flavor, and soul of Mediterranean dining.
A photo of Seasons 52 - Boca Raton restaurant
10. Seasons 52 - Boca Raton
4.7
Exceptional(12651)
$$$$
• American • Boca Raton
Booked 106 times today
Seasons 52 is a Fresh Grill and Wine Bar offering a seasonal menu that is naturally lighter and always flavorful. Our seasonal menus feature ingredients at their peak of freshness, oak-fire grilled or brick oven roasted (without a fryer in sight) to be naturally lighter and more flavorful. We also offer an extensive list of wines by the glass and bottle. Here, you'll always feel free to enjoy every bite, every sip, every moment. Lunch and dinner daily with happy hour Monday-Friday from 3-6PM.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Roberto
    Hawaii •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    In a league of its own. They offer quality food you won’t find anywhere else. They also carry a vast selection of quality Italian wines for all budgets and tastes. The service is superb and the experience is refined and sophisticated. Worth the investment.
    More info
    Pasta And$$$$• Italian• Margate
    •
    4.9
  • Sharon
    West Palm Beach •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I don’t recall our servers name, might have been jade, she was awesome. Sweet attentive pleasant lively young woman. Food was great we had the mussels it was large serving for a good price. My husband and I split the short ribs with risotto and it was plenty. Nice atmosphere. We will come back
    More info
    North Italia - Fort Lauderdale$$$$• Italian• Victoria Park
    •
    4.4
  • Brian
    Fort Lauderdale •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The service and my steak and my wife’s duck were all incredible. 
    More info
    Cafe Maxx$$$$• American• Pompano Beach
    •
    4.9
  • Paul
    Miami - Dade •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 29, 2026
    My wife had two pounds of stone crab and I had the cod. It was great and Casey was a great waitress. It was my wife’s birthday and every thing was perfect. Great food and great service.
    More info
    Catfish Dewey's$$$$• Seafood• Oakland Park
    •
    4.8
  • HaroldGold
    Fort Lauderdale •35 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 25, 2026
    Awesome food and service! Excellent assortment of food. Very, very tasty. Highly recommend!
    More info
    RGS Steakhouse$$$$• Steakhouse• Pompano Beach
    •
    4.7

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Lauderdale by the Sea

Discover exceptional dining experiences in Fort Lauderdale East and Lauderdale by the Sea, where restaurants truly justify the journey. Each venue offers a unique blend of culinary excellence and scenic charm, making them "worth the drive" for locals and visitors alike. The area is renowned for its diverse dining scene, ranging from sophisticated seafood eateries to cozy, gourmet bistros, each providing an unforgettable atmosphere and impeccable service. These establishments pride themselves on sourcing high-quality ingredients, often highlighted in their signature dishes that cater to a variety of palates. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening out, a family gathering, or a special celebration, these restaurants combine the best of Fort Lauderdale's culinary offerings with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. The commitment to excellence in both food and service makes each dining experience not just a meal, but a memorable event. Join us in exploring Fort Lauderdale's culinary delights, where every meal is worth the mileage.

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