Diners' Choice: Lively restaurants in Fort Lauderdale

OpenTable

Updated June 05, 2025

Looking for restaurants that have the most vibrant bar scenes in Fort Lauderdale? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Kan’s Thai Kitchen

5.0

5 (28)

$30 and under

Thai

Lauderdale by the Sea

About the restaurant

AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD AND HOME STYLE COOKING. Family owned and operate.

Top review

Luke

Dined 3 days ago

Amazing! Kan’s Thai Kitchen opened in November 2024 in a city with so many Thai restaurants already, but it really stands out. We have been there about half a dozen times, and I have many of her creative yet authentic house specialties. You must go!

El Camino Mexican Soul Food - Mezcal & Tequila Bar - Fort Lauderdale

4.9

4.9 (916)

$30 and under

Mexican

Colee Hammock

About the restaurant

At El Camino, our guiding principle is to exceed our guest’s expectations in all areas – food, beverage, and ambiance – and create an experience that will arouse and excite our guest’s senses. As a team, we are inspired by the culture and the heritage of Mexico. To that end, we are passionate about bringing you an authentic experience not typically seen north of the border in chain restaurants.

We are committed to offering the freshest organic and local ingredients where possible, and we value local, artisan, indigenous and reclaimed offerings. We are even taking the not so typical step of making our own tortillas, sauces, and anything else possible from scratch. The list of craft cocktails is truly Mexican and includes house made sangritas, a curated selection of agave spirits, a diverse selection of craft and Mexican beers. In the end, it is all about sharing the food with the community of people who enjoy it. Viva México!

Top review

valentina

Dined on May 5, 2025

We went there for 5 de mayo and was a great experience. The food was delicious! I highly recommend this place.

Unit B Eatery + Spirits

4.9

4.9 (339)

$31 to $50

International

Pembroke Pines

About the restaurant

Unit B Eatery + Spirits
An intimate hideaway, where high-end New American cuisine meets unapologetically inventive cocktails. Our talented team will guide you through a one-of-a-kind experience.

The Unit B kitchen turns familiar into unforgettable, and our bartenders don't just pour...they perform.

Expect dished built to surprise, and cocktails that challenge expectations.

This is not just dining...This is discovery.

HAPPY HOUR - EVERY TUESDAY - SATURDAY | 4PM to 6PM
- $10 House Cocktails & 1/2 Off House Wines By The Glass -

Top review

GeorgeVIP

Dined on Jun 20, 2025

As usual , excellent service . Food and drinks excellent , new menu additions improved on already good food , hangar tenderloin is a superb value.

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Experience

Happy Hour at Unit B Eatery + Spirits

HALLYU KOREAN BBQ & BAR

4.9

4.9 (19)

$31 to $50

Korean

Tamarac

About the restaurant

Fueling Seoul in every bite!
Established in 2023, Hallyu KBBQ & Bar is dedicated to providing a premier Korean BBQ experience. Our mission is to deliver exceptional taste, blending sophisticated decor and lighting with outstanding service, quality, and a diverse selection of side dishes.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of the Korean Wave. Embracing the All-You-Can-Eat concept, we offer a generous array of delectable protein options, complemented by authentic Korean beer and soju, all at competitive prices.

At Hallyu, we prioritize creating a warm and welcoming environment, aiming to be your second home where exceptional experiences and delightful meals come together. Our team is committed to delivering a unique, personable, and lively experience for guests of all ages.

Top review

Michelle

Dined 4 days ago

The food was absolutely delicious everything tasted super fresh and authentic, just like you’d hope from a real Korean spot. . Sam our server was incredibly friendly and went above and beyond to make sure we had a great experience. She explained the dishes, checked in often, and made us feel totally at home. This restaurant is where you go for a Korean experience, great food, welcoming vibes, and great service.

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Experience

Dine in Experience

Experience

Karaoke & Dining - 2hr Minimum

Padrino's - Plantation

4.8

4.8 (246)

$30 and under

Cuban

Plantation

About the restaurant

Padrino's Restaurants is a third-generation, family-owned Cuban restaurant where tradition meets innovation. Inspired by our grandmother's recipes, our father's passion for service, and our own drive to honor their legacy while growing something new, we offer bold Cuban flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and warm hospitality in a vibrant, modern setting.

Top review

Lourdes

Dined 7 days ago

Hello all, my experience with Padrino's was excellent. We went for a birthday celebration and Padrino's did not disappoint. My family is Cuban so our expectations were high. We were pleasantly surprised and happy with our delicious meals. Food felt authentic, and the chef knows the cuisine well. Service was also excellent, our server was very attentive, and wanted to make sure we were well taken care of. Much appreciated. Hope you enjoy as well this little piece of Cuba in South Florida.

Saiko-i Sushi Lounge and Hibachi - Coral Springs

4.8

4.8 (20)

$31 to $50

Asian

Coral Springs

About the restaurant

Renowned for our authentic Japanese cuisine, Saiko-i is a culinary haven in Boca Raton, Florida, offering an array of delectable sushi and captivating Hibachi creations.

Whether you’re craving the delicate freshness of Sashimi or the sizzle of expertly grilled Hibachi fare, our menu boasts a diverse selection crafted from the finest ingredients.

Experience the pinnacle of Japanese culinary excellence at Saiko-i

Top review

Malika

Dined 5 days ago

Fun place to celebrate for a group outing or event

The Federal Bar & Restaurant

4.8

4.8 (99)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Victoria Park

About the restaurant

A vibrant restaurant with panoramic views nestled by the Florida Panthers' practice rink. Enjoy modern American cuisine while watching the team train, or relax on the second-story patio overlooking Holiday Park. With fresh ingredients and inviting vibes, it's the perfect spot for a thrilling dining experience.

Top review

Horacio

Dined 4 days ago

The service was superb. Staff was terrific. The food was good. The bibimbap was excellent. Not being familiar with the restaurant, it was a bit confusing to find it (second floor in the ICEPLEX next to the concession area). We didn't detect any signs. Otherwise, it is a cool place.

Runyon's

4.7

4.7 (235)

$31 to $50

Continental

Coral Springs

About the restaurant

Reservations are highly suggested, PLEASE CALL FOR ADDITIONAL RESERVATION AVAILABILITY

Located just west of University Drive on the south side of Sample road

Runyon's is a landmark restaurant in Coral Springs, 39 years family owned and operated!! Runyon's is a classic steakhouse with an emphasis on Steaks, Prime Rib and Fresh Seafood along with daily Chef's Specials.

Runyon's also features live entertainment Tuesday thru Saturday nights in our Piano Room and Bar area.

Come join our family, in our home, we would love to have you!

Ryan & Kevin O'Connor
owners/operators

Top review

Lorri

Dined on Jun 22, 2025

Fantastic food & awesome service would recommend to anyone looking for a wonderful dining experience

Luka Plantation

4.7

4.7 (76)

$30 and under

Latin / Spanish

Plantation

About the restaurant

Unique and cozy Craft Coffee and restaurant spot in Plantation. Luka Restaurant is the fulfillment of the American dream for its owners Luis and Cata, who decided to create a space highlighting the best flavors of Latin American cuisine offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with delicious and flavorful signature dishes such as Arepas, Empanadas, Picanha Steak, Parrilla, variety of bowls and Crunchy Latin Delights for sharing. Visit us and discover our Comfort Food With Love in a one-of-a-kind setting with a beautiful terrace to share with your love ones!

Top review

Karen

Dined on Jun 7, 2025

Excellent food and drinks, great ambience. Will definitely visit again!

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Experience

Luka Bowls: the perfect Lunch Special 🍴

Experience

FREE Margaritas for the ladies on Thursday nights

Puya Urban Cantina

4.7

4.7 (24)

$31 to $50

Mexican

Dania Beach

About the restaurant

Puya Urban Cantina invites you to experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of Dania Beach. This family-friendly restaurant features a lively atmosphere, ideal for gathering with friends and family. Our menu is filled with fresh, seasonal ingredients transformed into delicious dishes. Enjoy sizzling fajitas and succulent tacos, each bite celebrating traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss our extensive margarita selection, offering over 20 unique flavors from classic lime to exotic guava, ensuring the perfect pairing for every meal. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or a festive weekend brunch, Puya Urban Cantina promises an unforgettable dining experience. Join us and explore the vibrant flavors of Mexico right here in Dania Beach.

Top review

Lilian

Dined 7 days ago

We had a great time, celebrating my girls being home, with great food and even better service. I highly recommend.

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