Downtown Miami may be a hot spot on your to-do list, but Downtown Ft. Lauderdale should be explored with equal curiosity and excitement. Las Olas Boulevard is a nightlife oasis that connects Downtown Ft. Lauderdale with A1A and is very different from the atmosphere you’d find in South Beach, Midtown Miami or anywhere else. Some of the best bars, and tastiest restaurants can be found along these streets, let Where South Florida take you on a walk down Las Olas Blvd.’s restaurant scene so you can confidently stride through like a pro.
Sweet Nectar Charcoal Grill and Spirits
For a more casual dining experience, sit outside and you’ll have the perfect view for people-watching as you taste the flavorful bites of Sweet Nectar. Try the Charcoal Grilled Angus BBQ Beef Burger for lunch, Coal Fired Teradactyl Wing as an entree or any one of their shared plates and delicious snacks. Before you head on your way to continue perusing Las Olas, have a chocolate and Nutella Fondue or a table-side campfire selection of smores.
Get there: 1017 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 954.761.2122
The Royal Pig Pub
With such a loyal following, the Royal Pig is known for being the best pub in Las Olas and for good reason. Organic sweet potato fries drizzled in honey cider, handcrafted nachos with your choice of meat, house smoked baby back ribs and so much more line the menu at The Pig to fill you up enough to enjoy the “Royal Offerings” or drink selection. The Royal Pig is the social spot for those looking to relax in the cushy booths and bring a group of friends to a midnight snack like nothing else.
Get there: 350 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 954.617.7447
Fork & Balls
Looking for a fun and creative take on dinner? Look no further than Fork & Balls- a trendy and rustic one-of-a-kind spot that puts a fresh spin on meatballs. Entrees like the B&E Chicken: grilled romaine, roasted tomatoes, white beans, lemon and parmesan; The Pesto Turkey: turkey balls, whole wheat spaghetti, pesto and sundried tomatoes- are signature of The Fork & Balls. Everything on the menu is delicious and a must-try as well as their full bar and cocktail menu any day of the week.
Get there: 1301 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 954.771.2257
YOLO
The name stands for “You Only Live Once” and the atmosphere represents that ideology- the decor is modern chic and the atmosphere is always vibrant. For a sophisticated dining experience try YOLO’s well stocked contemporary American menu with specials like sautéed jumbo lump crab cakes, rotisserie greek chicken, or santorini grilled octopus salad. The cocktail and wine menu is similarly jam-packed with weekly specials and favorites for every palette. After dinner fun can be found just next door at O-Lounge for some music and drinks.
Get there: 333 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 954.523.1000
Wild Sea Oyster Bar and Grille
Turn the evening up a notch at this upscale seafood destination of seasonally fresh raw bar choices and sustainable, savory entrees. Enjoy the fresh catch ceviche, Key West mutton napper, roasted cornish hen or a lobster entree served with smoked bacon braised corn and jumbo lump blue crabmeat stuffing. The possibilities are endless and all of them are unforgettably divine. Wild Sea is a high end spot that will surely please any foodie.
Get there: 620 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 954.467.2555