Dining on Fort Lauderdale’s Premier Las Olas Boulevard

The tony boulevard in Fort Lauderdale that attracts locals and visitors with its premier restaurants, shops and people-watching is Las Olas. This picture-perfect boulevard is legendary and sizzles at any time of the day. And it is here where the finest restaurants in town can be found. From the very popular Mango’s Restaurant and Lounge, which offers a great menu from lunch through to late night, to the sushi lover’s delight, Asia Bay Sushi Bar & Thai, with its exclusive location right on the water. For an authentic atmosphere, great American fare and an outstanding selection of California wines, go to the classic Big City Tavern. If it’s great steak head to Chima Brazilian Steakhouse. Locals and visitors have penciled in this great eatery to satisfy their craving for the best steak. For a casual lunch or dinner in a fun and old-diner-type setting – not to mention a famous one, too – head to the Floridian. Great salads, burgers, sandwiches and a friendly staff will keep you coming back. For an evening in an upscale and fun atmosphere there in The Royal Pig and YOLO, two of Fort Lauderdale’s most popular hotspots. Don’t forget the quieter side of Las Olas and The Chimney House Grill and Café, a Latin-American Spanish grill that has quite a following. And find out what the locals have known for a long time when it comes to the finest Italian food, Salita Las Olas. Remember that Las Olas Boulevard is the premier dining and shopping experience. Enjoy!

7

The Floridian

Las Olas

Everyone knows about The Floridian. It’s one of those places that’s not fancy, walls covered with celebrity pictures – mostly well-known for being a Rachel Rae favorite – and tables close to one another and fellow diners just inches away, and the place that has the best food around. From salads that catch your eye as they go by to another table, and one particular favorite, the Buffalo Burger, mark this place down as your favorite. It’s especially busy on weekend mornings, when folks gather for huge omelets, fresh oatmeal, biscuits, and other typical breakfast fare. Don’t expect the service to be refined or sophisticated, but do expect the food to be hearty and satisfying. There’s an ATM on-site.

Recommended for Las Olas’ Best Restaurants because: The Floridian is a landmark and a place visitors seek out and locals brag about.

Dale’s expert tip: It’s not fancy but it is legendary for its great food!

Read more about The Floridian →

6

The Chimney House – Grill and Cafe

Downtown The Chimney House - Grill and Cafe

Photo courtesy of Dale Mack

The Chimney House Grill & Cafe, a Latin-American Spanish grill at the corner of West Las Olas Boulevard and SW 7th Avenue in the historic Sailboat Bend, recently opened its doors and its menu to the delight of patrons. Situated in a charming older house on the quieter side of Las Olas, this welcoming restaurant with a wood-burning fireplace, as well as pleasant outdoor seating, has an extensive menu offering tapas, expertly prepared ceviche and salads that can be a meal in themselves, as well as mouth-watering main dishes. The Chimney House offers classic favorites with a twist of their own and also offers an extensive list of beer and wine selections and tempting desserts. No reservations are necessary. Make plans to visit this not-so-traveled part of Las Olas and you’ll find your new favorite!

Recommended for Las Olas’ Best Restaurants because: This is already a favorite of patrons, even though it’s not been open long.

Dale’s expert tip: You can’t walk here from the busy side to Las Olas. Take Broward to SW 7th Avenue then south to Las Olas and The Chimney House is on the northwest corner.

Read more about The Chimney House – Grill and Cafe →

5

Asia Bay Sushi Bar & Thai

Las Olas Asia Bay Sushi Bar & Thai
Photo courtesy of Asian Bay Sushi Bar & Thai

The very best in Asian cuisine is right here at the Asian Bay Shushi Bar & Thai on the very prestigeous and welcoming Las Olas Boulevard. The restaurant is a trendy and modern setting with a great option for outdoor seating overlooking Himmarshee Canal. With a menu of mouth-watering sushi and Thai cuisine made only from the very freshest ingredients to satisfy even the most asian food enthusiast, Asia Bay is a class act. Each dish is presented nearly as a work of art so it may be a good idea to snap a photo of it before you eat it. With a lunch and dinner menu and extensive wine list, Asia Bay is an experience just waiting for you.

Recommended for Las Olas’ Best Restaurants because: Aside from it’s ideal location, Asian Bay is a local favorite for true Thai and sushi lovers.

Dale’s expert tip: What a great compliment to this boulevard of top-notch restaurants.

Read more about Asia Bay Sushi Bar & Thai →

Advertisement

4

The Royal Pig

Las Olas The Royal Pig

Photo courtesy of Dale Mack

The Royal Pig welcomes its clientele with both classic elegance and a casual sophistication that will appeal to everyone. Having opened for business just recently on the always-happening Las Olas Boulevard, The Royal Pig has been met with high praise from patrons and the local media. The very name itself suggests a playful and welcoming atmosphere, and due to its upscale vibe and lists of favorite beers and cocktails, as well as their selection of outstanding burgers, steaks and tantalizing side dishes, The Royal Pig has already attained a loyal following and is surely here to stay. And with a name like The Royal Pig, the chefs take great pride in preparing their meat and poultry dishes. The Royal Pig is the perfect setting for a great evening of dinner and drinks and the perfect complement to Fort Lauderdale’s sizzling nightlife.

Recommended for Las Olas’ Best Restaurants because: The Royal Pig stands out among the very busy restaurants and clubs surrounding it and has already earned a name for itself.

Dale’s expert tip: Outside seating is spectacular in this side of Las Olas where the nightlife sizzles.

Read more about The Royal Pig →

3

Big City Tavern

Fort Lauderdale

Among the numerous eateries in the neighborhood, Big City Tavern warrants raves for its chic bar scene and outstanding selection of California wines. Even more praise-worthy is the clever New American fare, which ranges from such familiar classics as New York strip and grilled tuna to global-influenced dishes like pad Thai and duck with mango-basil risotto. Big City Tavern prides itself on its image, which is reminiscent of the great old taverns of Chicago, New York and Boston, and is a great compliment to the restaurant scene of Las Olas Boulevard. Come for lunch, dinner or late night – and save room for dessert.

Recommended for Las Olas’ Best Restaurants because: Big City Tavern certainly has the “wow” factor from its exterior to its amazing menu and service.

Dale’s expert tip: The perfect restaurant for an impressive business meeting or for that special family occasion.

Read more about Big City Tavern →

2

YOLO

Las Olas YOLO
Photo courtesy of YOLO

It’s hard to imagine that in just a few short years the amazing Yolo has become the talk of the town. And that’s a tough thing to do in Fort Lauderdale. But there is good reason why. Located on the very chic and elegant Las Olas, this beautifully designed eatery welcomes its patrons in its modern and comfortable setting and presents its delightful lunch menu consisting of delicious starters, soups, sandwiches and specials of prime rib, a daily fresh fish selection, a vegetable stir fry, BBQ Port Ribs or the health-conscious special vegetable plate. Sides consist of everyone’s favorite macaroni and cheese, delightful Green Apple Slaw or Roasted Beets and more. And don’t rush back to the office before trying their delectable desserts and topped off with your favorite coffee. And remember the restaurant’s name is short for You Only Live Once, so enjoy!

Recommended for Las Olas’ Best Restaurants because: Electric atmosphere that draws that certain crowd and just steps from Downtown

Dale’s expert tip: If you have enjoyed Yolo for dinner you will certainly love it for lunch!

Read more about YOLO →

1

Chima Brazilian Steakhouse

Las Olas

Step through the revolving doorway, and it’s evident this steakhouse aims to be the biggest and best. Located on Las Olas Boulevard, Chima Brazilian Steakhouse offers a chic dining experience that is a step above. The swanky bar features hardwood floors, a black curved countertop and stools, and the impressive dining room is filled with tables that accommodate large and small groups. On the periphery of the room, the abundant salad bar offers a variety of specialty salads such as bean, potato, Caesar and soy, and side items might include mashed potatoes, tabbouleh, soups, cold cuts, fruits and veggies. Top sirloin, lamb, chicken wings, ribs and several cuts of beef highlight the main dishes. Arrive for happy hour or dinner, or both, and settle in for a pleasant dining experience.

Recommended for Las Olas’ Best Restaurants because: Conveniently located on Las Olas toward the beach, Chima offers visitors and locals the finest food in an impeccable setting.

Dale’s expert tip: The exciting buzz of Las Olas Boulevard coupled with this contemporary dining experience create the ideal setting for the perfect meal.

Read more about Chima Brazilian Steakhouse →