Fort Lauderdale, known as the "Venice of America" for its extensive canal system, offers a unique way to experience its vibrant culinary scene—by water. With its picturesque canals, beautiful coastline, and plethora of waterfront restaurants, Fort Lauderdale provides an ideal setting for food lovers to enjoy the city’s diverse cuisine while cruising along its serene waterways. Whether you’re looking to take a scenic boat ride to a hidden gem or enjoy fine dining aboard a luxurious yacht, there are many ways to explore Fort Lauderdale’s foodie scene by water. Here’s a guide to some of the best ways to embark on a culinary adventure on the water in Fort Lauderdale.
One of the most popular and convenient ways to explore Fort Lauderdale’s food scene by water is by taking a water taxi. The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi system is a fantastic way to visit a variety of waterfront restaurants while cruising along the scenic canals and Intracoastal Waterway. The water taxi stops at numerous points of interest around the city, providing access to a wide range of dining options—from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
During your journey, you’ll pass by luxurious mansions, beautiful yachts, and breathtaking views of the coastline, all while enjoying the breeze and scenic beauty of Fort Lauderdale. Some of the best restaurants accessible via the water taxi include:
The water taxi provides a flexible and leisurely way to explore these waterfront gems, and it’s a fun way to hop between multiple restaurants throughout the day.
For those looking to combine fine dining with the ultimate in luxury and comfort, chartering a private yacht for a gourmet dining experience is an unforgettable way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s culinary offerings by water. Several yacht charter companies in the area offer customized experiences, allowing you to work with a chef to craft a personalized menu that matches your tastes.
These luxury yachts often feature plush seating, an elegant dining area, and plenty of space to relax and enjoy the view. Onboard chefs can prepare fresh, locally sourced ingredients while you cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway or out to the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge, a private yacht charter is an exclusive way to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s finest cuisine in a truly unforgettable setting.
Some companies that offer private yacht charters with dining options include:
Whether you're enjoying fresh seafood, gourmet Italian cuisine, or a full-course tasting menu, chartering a yacht for a dining experience allows you to see Fort Lauderdale from a completely different perspective while savoring some of the best food the city has to offer.
Fort Lauderdale is home to several floating restaurants that offer the unique opportunity to dine while surrounded by water. These restaurants provide the perfect setting for enjoying a meal with scenic views of the water, whether you're looking for fresh seafood or an exotic cuisine experience. Some of the best floating restaurants in Fort Lauderdale include:
These floating restaurants allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the flavors of Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene and the beauty of its waterways. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a more sophisticated dining experience, these floating restaurants offer an unforgettable way to enjoy food by water.
There’s no better way to experience Fort Lauderdale’s food scene than by enjoying a sunset cruise with dinner. Several companies offer evening cruises that pair delicious meals with breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and coastline at sunset. These cruises often feature live entertainment, cocktails, and multi-course meals designed to enhance the evening’s experience.
A few popular options for sunset dining cruises include:
These sunset dinner cruises are perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration, combining Fort Lauderdale’s stunning natural beauty with a top-tier culinary experience.
For those looking for a more active way to explore Fort Lauderdale’s food scene by water, consider taking a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or kayak tour that includes stops at local eateries along the way. Several guided tours offer the chance to paddle through Fort Lauderdale’s canals and waterways, with breaks at popular food spots for a bite to eat.
These tours offer a fun, engaging way to enjoy the city’s scenery while tasting local food. Paddle through the scenic canals, enjoy the views of luxury homes and yachts, and stop at waterfront cafes or restaurants to sample local specialties. It’s a great option for fitness enthusiasts who want to explore the city from the water while enjoying a bite to eat along the way.
Fort Lauderdale offers numerous ways to explore its incredible foodie scene by water. Whether you’re hopping on a water taxi to visit waterfront restaurants, enjoying a private yacht charter with a gourmet meal, or dining at one of the city’s floating restaurants, the combination of water views and great food makes for a truly unique experience. From sunset cruises to kayaking tours, there’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the best of Fort Lauderdale’s culinary delights while exploring its beautiful waterways. For foodies who want to experience the city in a truly unforgettable way, exploring Fort Lauderdale by water is an adventure that’s not to be missed.