12 Most Romantic Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale

I spent a year living in Fort Lauderdale, and during that time, I came to understand just how special its dining scene can be for romance — especially its wonderful Italian restaurants. Fort Lauderdale is home to an incredible mix of legendary institutions and beloved neighborhood gems, from longtime icons like Casa D’Angelo and Greek Islands Taverna to elegant waterfront stunners and intimate date-night hideaways that locals return to again and again.

These are the places that have mastered the art of a romantic evening, where candlelight, polished service, and memorable food come together effortlessly. Whether it’s old-school Italian served with a side of history, Greek feasts meant for sharing, or glamorous waterfront dining with unbeatable views, these 12 most romantic restaurants in Fort Lauderdale define what a perfect date night looks like.

15th Street Fisheries

Perched above the Fort Lauderdale Marina, 15th Street Fisheries feels like a time capsule of old-school South Florida romance, where candlelit tables, salty breezes, and yacht-lined views set the mood. The upstairs dining room hums with classic waterfront charm, polished service, and bartenders shaking cocktails like it’s always happy hour somewhere on the docks. From impeccably prepared seafood to the kind of warm, gracious hospitality that’s increasingly rare, it’s the kind of place that reminds you why dinner dates used to feel special. 1900 SE 15th St., Fort Lauderdale; 954-763-2777; 15streetfisheries.com.

Cafe Martorano

Cafe Martorano is pure Fort Lauderdale romance, where candlelit tables, classic films on the big screen, and Frank Sinatra vibes set the tone for an unforgettable night out. The room buzzes with warmth and familiarity as regulars are greeted like family, making every dinner feel personal, intimate, and full of heart. With Steve Martorano’s soulful Italian cooking anchoring the experience, it’s the kind of place where love, laughter, and really great pasta always share the table. 3343 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954-561-2554; cafemartorano.com.

Cafe Vico

Cafe Vico is one of those rare Fort Lauderdale spots that instantly feels romantic, with a cozy, intimate dining room, crisp white tablecloths, and the kind of attentive service that makes you feel like family the moment you walk in. The food is special-occasion worthy across the board, from delicate starters like salmon carpaccio to showstopping mains like the porterhouse with Alfredo on the side, while the pizza menu practically begs for a return visit on a more casual night. It’s not the easiest place to stumble upon, but with knowledgeable staff, a strong wine program, and consistently excellent cooking, Cafe Vico is absolutely worth seeking out for date night or any excuse to linger over authentic Italian food. 1125 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale; 954-565-9681; cafevicorestaurant.com.

Calusso

Calusso is an effortlessly romantic date-night destination, with a beautiful, intimate atmosphere tucked inside the Pier 66 hotel and the kind of polished, thoughtful service that immediately sets the tone for a special evening. Chef Efrain’s passion shines through every chef-curated plate, from melt-in-your-mouth burrata and lobster mafalde to perfectly cooked scallops and Iberian pluma, each dish as elegant and intentional as the last. When the ambiance, impeccable service, and memorable food come together this seamlessly, Calusso becomes the kind of place you leave already planning your next visit. 2301 SE 17th St., Fort Lauderdale; 754-318-6997; calussorestaurant.com.

Casa D’Angelo

Adding to Casa D’Angelo’s charm is its unassuming strip-mall location, which gives way to a beyond-elegant dining room where Chef Angelo Elia often makes a warm appearance to greet guests. The menu balances tradition and creativity, from classics like housemade fusilli made from the chef’s mother’s recipe to standout dishes such as a 16-ounce veal chop finished in a rich wild mushroom Marsala. Polished service, authentic flavors, and thoughtful touches throughout make Casa D’Angelo an icon in Fort Lauderdale and a go-to for truly special occasions. 1201 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale; 954-564-1234; casa-d-angelo.com.

Greek Islands Taverna

Greek Islands Taverna is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most romantic restaurants thanks to its warm, beach-adjacent setting, glowing hospitality, and a comforting atmosphere that makes every table feel like a celebration. The menu is built for sharing, from massive mezze platters and tender grilled octopus to unforgettable lamb chops bathed in the signature Kalamata olive Ladoregano sauce, a family recipe so beloved it had to be bottled. When consistently excellent food meets heartfelt service that makes you feel right at home, Greek Islands becomes the kind of place couples return to again and again. 3300 N. Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954-565-5505; greekislandstaverna.com.

Lobster Bar Sea Grille

Lobster Bar Sea Grille on Las Olas Boulevard is the kind of place that instantly feels festive and refined, with a vibrant yet elegant atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrating something special. The service is warm and attentive without ever feeling rushed, while the menu delivers beautifully prepared seafood standouts like twin lobster tails, fried lobster, and grilled branzino, paired with an excellent cocktail and wine list. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, birthday, or date night, Lobster Bar offers a polished, memorable dining experience that keeps guests coming back year-round. 450 E. Las Olas Blvd., Ste. 190, Fort Lauderdale; 954-772-2675; lobsterbarseagrille.com.

Ocean Prime

Ocean Prime is pure romance, pairing a glamorous Intracoastal setting with candlelit elegance, sweeping water views, and an energy that makes it one of Fort Lauderdale’s most in-demand reservations. The food is consistently outstanding, from perfectly cooked filet mignon and sea bass to beautifully executed scallops and indulgent desserts like the warm butter cake, all elevated by thoughtful, polished service that makes every guest feel truly cared for. When impeccable hospitality, unforgettable flavors, and a stunning waterfront backdrop come together this seamlessly, Ocean Prime becomes the ultimate destination for a special night out. 171 Las Olas Cir., Fort Lauderdale; 954-302-3838; ocean-prime.com.

Serafina Italian Restaurant & Waterfront Bistro

Very much a romantic neighborhood favorite with riverside tables, this trattoria is an excellent experience from start to finish. Many are fooled by its quaint entrance, but it opens onto waterside Italian bliss within mere steps. The family-owned spot has roots in Northern Italy, but its menu is a true, broad Italian masterpiece. Longtime favorites include the spinach, prosciutto, and fontina cheese-stuffed chicken breast and the freshest pasta dishes, spanning from simple angel hair to rustic pappardelle. 926 NE 20th Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954-463-2566; serabythewater.com.

Steak 954

Steak 954 is a Fort Lauderdale date-night classic thanks to its elegant oceanfront setting, polished service, and consistently exceptional food that always feels worthy of a celebration. From perfectly cooked filet mignons and standout sides to thoughtful wine recommendations and attentive servers who never rush the experience, every detail is dialed in. Whether it’s a first date or a milestone anniversary, Steak 954 has a timeless, romantic energy that keeps couples coming back year after year. 401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954-414-8333; steak954.com.

The House on the River

House on the River is a romantic Fort Lauderdale gem thanks to its dreamy setting right on the New River, where twinkling waterfront views and gentle breezes instantly set a relaxed, intimate mood. The historic space is filled with eclectic vintage furniture, mixed china, vibrant flowers, and lush greenery, creating a whimsical, Old Florida Riviera charm that feels both cozy and transportive. With expansive outdoor patios that feel like a hidden escape from downtown’s bustle, it’s the kind of place where date night effortlessly turns into lingering conversation and another round of drinks. 301 SW Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954-825-2929; thehouseontheriver.com.

The Katherine Restaurant

The Katherine is a quaint, intimate Fort Lauderdale gem that feels tailor-made for date night, with a cozy atmosphere and a creative, ever-interesting menu you won’t find anywhere else. The food is thoughtful and delicious, from standouts like Thai branzino, seafood pasta, and crispy rice to playful details like rum punch served in a peacock cup, all perfect for sharing. With knowledgeable servers, inventive cocktails, and a warm, romantic vibe, The Katherine is the kind of place that makes dinner feel like a special occasion. 723 E. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954-807-8022; katherinerestaurant.com.