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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Lauderdale by the Sea

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Uptown Keese`s Greek Cuisine restaurant
4.5
Awesome(99)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Lauderdale by the Sea
Booked 6 times today
Uptown Keese's Greek Cuisine in Lauderdale by the Sea is a treasure trove of culinary delight, especially for those with a penchant for Contemporary American fare. Renowned for its "Simply Delicious" award-winning American Classics, this restaurant offers a sophisticated twist to traditional flavors. Guests rave about the quality and authenticity, with one diner exclaiming, "Everything is so tasty and delicious! Highly recommend!!" Another echoes, "Great dishes, homemade, all serviced with pride." From the exceptional homemade desserts to the curated wine selection, Uptown Keese's provides a memorable dining experience that celebrates the best of Contemporary American cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.
A photo of Nubé Rooftop restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(471)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Central Beach
Booked 62 times today
Nubé Rooftop, nestled on the 26th floor of the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, is a haven for seafood lovers seeking an extraordinary dining experience. With its breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and city, Nubé offers an unparalleled ambiance that complements its exquisite seafood offerings. Guests rave about the deliciousness of dishes like the double shrimp ceviche and the seafood tray, highlighting the freshness and flavor. One glowing review exclaimed, "The ceviche was delicious, the drinks were superb!" Nubé's commitment to quality and its stylish, rooftop setting make it a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic, top-tier seafood in Fort Lauderdale.
A photo of DUNE By Laurent Tourondel restaurant
4.4
Awesome(3957)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Lauderdale Beach
Booked 94 times today
DUNE by Laurent Tourondel, hailed as 2022's Best Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale by Miami New Times, offers an exceptional seafood dining experience right on Lauderdale Beach. The oceanfront setting enhances the impeccably crafted dishes, making each visit unforgettable. Guests rave about the "deliciously prepared" Branzino and the lobster pasta that is "to die for." The quality of the seafood is consistently praised, with dishes like the "exceptional" Tuna Tartare and the "amazing" snapper, highlighting the menu's freshness and creativity. DUNE's commitment to excellence is evident, providing a perfect blend of superb cuisine, stunning views, and exemplary service, making it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers.
A photo of Shooters Waterfront restaurant
4.4
Awesome(7646)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Lauderdale Beach
Booked 182 times today
Shooters Waterfront, a gem located in Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale, has been delighting diners since 1982 with its exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. Renowned for its breathtaking dockside views and vibrant atmosphere, this Florida icon excels in offering a dynamic dining experience. Patrons rave about the “amazing dining experience” and the exceptional quality of dishes like the “best chicken ever eaten at a restaurant” and “delicious” mussels. The restaurant is celebrated for its “great ambiance, food, and service,” making every visit memorable. Whether it’s for a casual brunch or a special dinner, Shooters Waterfront embodies the pinnacle of Contemporary American dining, ensuring every meal is not just eaten but experienced.
A photo of South Bar & Kitchen restaurant
4.3
Awesome(306)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Pompano Beach
Booked 35 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Pompano Beach, South Bar & Kitchen truly stands out as a beacon of contemporary Southern cuisine with a delightful Louisiana twist. Praised for its innovative Cajun and Creole flavors, the restaurant has garnered glowing reviews for dishes like the blue crab appetizer and the Georgia salad with grilled shrimp. Patrons rave about the "amazing food and great service," and the ambiance is described as "perfect," especially on the community patio under a beautifully lit tree. Whether it's the spicy fried chicken sandwich or the praised biscuits, South Bar & Kitchen consistently delivers an authentic Southern dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
A photo of American Tapas Bar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(356)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Lauderdale by the Sea
Booked 11 times today
At American Tapas Bar in Lauderdale by the Sea, Fort Lauderdale, the tapas are not just food; they are a vibrant celebration of American cuisine with a twist. Known for its "flavorful" small plates and craft cocktails, this spot offers an experience that goes beyond dining. Guests rave about the "lobster Mac and cheese, pork belly, and octopus," highlighting the authenticity and innovation in each dish. The atmosphere is complemented by live music and a cozy yet elegant decor, making it a perfect destination for any occasion. As one reviewer put it, the tapas here allow for "tasting different foods in one seating," ensuring a palate-pleasing journey that's both "delicious" and "reasonably priced." Whether it's the bustling happy hour or a quiet Sunday lunch, American Tapas Bar stands out as a culinary gem in South Florida.
A photo of MAASS restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(334)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Central Beach
Booked 40 times today
MAASS, nestled in the vibrant Central Beach neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale, is a gem of contemporary American cuisine, where Chef Ryan Ratino and his MICHELIN-accoladed team craft exceptional dishes cooked over an open-fire hearth. The restaurant has quickly become a culinary beacon, as evidenced by glowing reviews praising its "amazing unique culinary experience" and "sophisticated, daring cuisine." Diners are enthralled by inventive dishes like foie gras macarons and Wagyu short rib, complimented by an award-winning wine list and craft cocktails. The ambiance, complete with "club music" and attentive service, rounds out an unparalleled dining experience. MAASS is a must-visit for both locals and visitors, offering a Michelin-worthy experience right in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.
A photo of Steak 954 at the W Fort Lauderdale restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5768)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Central Beach
Booked 80 times today
Steak 954 at the W Fort Lauderdale sets a high standard for Contemporary American cuisine, offering a boutique ocean-front dining experience that is both luxurious and intimately inviting. This gem boasts an exclusive selection of dry-aged prime beef and certified authentic Kobe beef, making it one of the elite eateries privileged to offer such rarities in the U.S. Diners rave about the “exceptional culinary experience” with dishes like Wagyu rib cap and filet prepared to perfection. The ambiance, enhanced by stunning jellyfish tanks and perfect ocean views, complements the expertly curated wine list and top-notch service, creating an unparalleled dining experience in the heart of Central Beach, Fort Lauderdale.
A photo of Cafe Maxx restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1718)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pompano Beach
Booked 29 times today
Cafe Maxx in Pompano Beach has been a beacon of American fine dining for nearly four decades, consistently impressing with its innovative and high-quality cuisine. Patrons rave about the "phenomenal service and food that is to die for," highlighting dishes like the "chimichurri skirt steak" and the "petite filet cooked to perfection." Celebrated for its warm ambiance and impeccable service, Cafe Maxx makes every meal an occasion. Regulars and newcomers alike commend its consistent excellence, declaring it "always outstanding" and "the best food in Broward County!" Whether for a festive brunch or an elegant dinner, Cafe Maxx promises an exceptional dining experience, making it a beloved staple in South Florida's culinary scene.
A photo of The Federal Bar & Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(63)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Victoria Park
Booked 15 times today
The Federal Bar & Restaurant in Victoria Park, Fort Lauderdale, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Nestled next to the Florida Panthers' practice rink, this vibrant eatery offers a unique view of sports and leisure, making it not just a place to eat but a thrilling experience. Patrons rave about the "fantastic food" and "excellent service," highlighting dishes like the steak sandwich, truffle fries, and a turkey burger with a twist. The ambiance is described as "sporty" and "fun," perfect for family outings or watching a game. Reviews consistently praise the welcoming staff and the lively atmosphere, making The Federal a must-visit for anyone seeking quality Contemporary American dining in Fort Lauderdale.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MarleneVIP
    Northwest Florida •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Beautiful space. Sat outdoor. Windy night but heat lamps helped. Super friendly and attentive service staff. Great food and drinks. Loved the spicy margarita and Branzino entree. Will definitely come back next time we are in Fort Lauderdale!
    More info
    DUNE By Laurent TourondelPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Lauderdale Beach
    4.4
  • Sandino
    Fort Lauderdale •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food and drink were good. Everything was great. I loved it. The vibe was amazing. I absolutely love the music; it's so good! 10 out of 10, I will definitely be coming back again.
    More info
    Nubé RooftopPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Central Beach
    4.6
  • Cindy
    Fort Lauderdale •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    The service was amazing. The food was amazing. I had the shrimp and scallop risotto. It’s always excellent and we share the dessert of the crème brûlée bread pudding. It was the best I’ve ever had.
    More info
    Shooters WaterfrontPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Lauderdale Beach
    4.4
  • TomVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Cozy and intimate spot with excellent service and with deliciously fresh food. Perfect spot to linger and savor the wonderful food and enjoy the company you are with
    More info
    Uptown Keese`s Greek CuisinePrice: Moderate• Greek• Lauderdale by the Sea
    4.5
  • SandraVIP
    Fort Lauderdale •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 9, 2024
    I feel awful for not remembering our server’s name as he played a major role in making our night here a very memorable one. We had reservations for 2 but sat at a booth because we planned on ordering a few tapas. The vibe was just right, there was live music being sang by a guy with his guitar and his partner on the piano. For drinks we kept it simple with a few shots of tequila and some margaritas. For tapas we had: -Pot Roast. This dish was warm, savory and succulent. The beef was braised to perfection and the veggies were well cooked. -Peel n Eat Shrimp. The butter sauce has old bay seasoning in it which gave it a nice kick! The herb garlic bread was wonderfully toasted, not too hard and soaked up the butter sauce nicely. -Bacon Wrapped Dates. The sweetness from the dates paired well with the bacon. The blue cheese on the inside was well melted and added a creaminess to each bite. -Filet Mignon Slider. No comment, my husband swallowed the slider whole. He says it was a 10/10. I believed him because he liked his fingers to get up the bit of aioli left on it. -Lamb Chops. Perfectly grilled. Nice grill marks on the outside and juicy on the inside. -Chicken n Waffles. Cooked to order. The waffle was still warm when it got to our table. The chicken breast tenders had a nice crunchy well seasoned batter on them. -Pork Belly. Wish they fried it a bit more but you could taste the marinade on the meat. The glaze was also a nice touch. -BBQ Ribs. The ribs were definitely fall off the bone. Only thing I would recommend is to get a good broil on the bbq sauce so it’s not too messy . We will definitely be back & have already told our friends to check this place out.
    More info
    American Tapas BarPrice: Moderate• American• Lauderdale by the Sea
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Lauderdale by the Sea

Discover the vibrant dining scene in Fort Lauderdale East, Lauderdale by the Sea, where the contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. This area is renowned for its eclectic mix of restaurants that masterfully blend modern American flavors with local culinary traditions, offering a unique dining experience for every palate. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on innovative menus that feature everything from farm-to-table freshness to creative tapas-style dishes, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Patrons can expect not only a feast for their taste buds but also an inviting ambiance that ranges from casual chic to upscale sophistication. The commitment to quality service and the exceptional culinary skill displayed at these establishments make Lauderdale by the Sea a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking contemporary American delights. Whether you're in the mood for a light, flavorful meal or a full-course feast, the area's dining options are designed to satisfy diverse preferences and create memorable dining experiences.

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