15th Street Fisheries
Vibe: Casual dockside dining with a lively atmosphere
15th Street Fisheries combines a laid-back vibe with exceptional seafood. You can even feed the tarpon right off the dock! Popular dishes include the conch fritters, crab cakes, and fresh grouper. Don’t miss the chance to dine outside and watch the boats pass by on the Intracoastal Waterway.
Billy’s Stone Crab
Vibe: Classic and timeless, with panoramic water views
Billy’s Stone Crab is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists, famous for its namesake stone crabs. The restaurant’s waterfront setting provides beautiful views, making it an ideal place to enjoy seafood staples like crab claws, seafood platters, and oysters. For a truly memorable experience, dine on the rooftop deck at sunset. The casual yet classy atmosphere and consistently fresh seafood keep guests coming back.
Rustic Inn
Vibe: Casual, rustic, and family-friendly
Known for its iconic garlic crabs, Rustic Inn Crabhouse has been a Fort Lauderdale staple since 1955. The restaurant’s casual, laid-back atmosphere invites diners to grab a wooden mallet and dive into hearty servings of crab, clams, and shrimp. Try their famous garlic blue crabs or the crab-stuffed mushrooms. This place is all about fun, family, and hands-on seafood feasting.
Boatyard
Vibe: Chic and sophisticated with waterfront seating
Known for its “dock-to-table” menu, Boatyard sources fresh seafood daily. Start with the crab beignets or tuna tacos, and don’t miss the catch of the day. The waterfront patio offers a beautiful backdrop, and the upscale menu makes it a go-to for special occasions.
Southport Raw Bar & Restaurant
Vibe: Laid-back, no-frills oyster bar
Southport Raw Bar is a must-visit for those who love oysters and clams. This casual spot has been a local favorite for decades. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy delicious seafood options like raw oysters, clam chowder, and peel-and-eat shrimp. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite with a view.
Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab
Vibe: Elegant and upscale, perfect for a special night out
Truluck’s is known for its high-quality, sustainable seafood, particularly its fresh Florida stone crab claws, which are sourced directly from its fisheries. The restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience with dishes like lobster bisque, miso-glazed seabass, and an impressive seafood tower. The elegant ambiance, attentive service, and extensive wine list make Truluck’s a top choice for fine dining seafood.
Coconuts
Vibe: Relaxed, beachy ambiance
Coconuts is a local favorite for fresh seafood with a tropical twist in an inviting, laid-back atmosphere. With expansive views of the Intracoastal Waterway, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day by the water. Guests can raft their boats right up to the dock, and furry friends are welcome on the patio. Menu highlights include the coconut shrimp, lobster mac and cheese, and their signature Scoobies — crab claws sautéed in garlic butter.
Catfish Dewey’s
Vibe: Casual, homey, and Southern-inspired
Catfish Dewey’s is a family-owned gem specializing in Southern-style seafood. Known for its all-you-can-eat specials, including catfish, shrimp, and crab, this spot is perfect for those who want to indulge in classic comfort food. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere and hearty portions make it a favorite among locals for a relaxed night out with delicious, no-frills seafood.
Kelly’s Landing
Vibe: New England charm in sunny South Florida
Kelly’s Landing brings a taste of New England to Fort Lauderdale with classic Northeastern seafood dishes like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and Ipswich clams. The friendly, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal. Fans of authentic New England-style seafood will appreciate their commitment to tradition, especially with their fresh Maine lobsters and fried clams.
Tarks of Dania Beach
Vibe: Dive-style, no-frills, and laid-back
Tarks is a local institution known for fresh seafood served up without any fuss. This small, dive-style spot has a lively atmosphere and a loyal following. Popular menu items include their famous fried shrimp, raw oysters, and gator tail. It’s a great place to enjoy budget-friendly seafood in a casual, unpretentious setting, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends.
