What Are the Best Ways to Explore Fort Lauderdale’s Foodie Scene by Water?

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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.

1. Take a Water Taxi Tour to Waterfront Dining Spots

Discover Local Restaurants by Canal

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:

  • Café Matisse: Known for its upscale ambiance and modern American cuisine, Café Matisse offers an excellent dining experience that can be enjoyed while watching the sunset over the canal.
  • The Rustic Inn Crabhouse: Famous for its delicious crab dishes, particularly the renowned garlic crabs, this cozy spot offers a great casual dining experience just a short boat ride away.
  • 15th Street Fisheries: A seafood lover’s paradise, 15th Street Fisheries offers fresh, local seafood right on the water. Dining on the upper deck with views of the marina makes this a perfect spot for an al fresco meal.

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.

2. Charter a Private Yacht for a Gourmet Dining Experience

Enjoy a Luxurious, Customized Culinary Journey

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:

  • Yacht Charters Fort Lauderdale: Offering customized yacht rental services, including catering and private chefs, this company specializes in luxury dining cruises.
  • The Luxury Boat: Known for their high-end boats and unique dining experiences, The Luxury Boat offers chef-led excursions where guests can enjoy gourmet meals onboard.

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.

3. Savor the Flavors of a Floating Restaurant

Dining on the Water with Scenic Views

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:

  • Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, this iconic restaurant offers a casual, fun atmosphere with a menu focused on fresh seafood, especially shrimp. It’s a great stop for families and seafood lovers who want to dine with views of the passing yachts and boats.
  • The Riverside Market: A laid-back spot on the New River, The Riverside Market is a favorite for craft beer lovers and those seeking casual bites like burgers, sandwiches, and tacos while watching the boats drift by.
  • Pirate Republic Seafood Restaurant: Docked on the Intracoastal, Pirate Republic offers a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh oysters, crab legs, and signature seafood platters. Dining here allows you to enjoy the vibrant waterway while indulging in some of the freshest seafood in town.

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.

4. Embark on a Sunset Cruise with Dinner

Combine Scenic Views with a Gourmet Meal

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:

  • The Spirit of Lauderdale: This luxury dinner cruise offers an elegant dining experience with a multi-course meal while you sail through Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways. Enjoy fine dining as you watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Water Taxi Dinner Cruise: Some water taxi companies offer sunset dinner cruises, where guests can enjoy a leisurely ride through the canals while savoring a delicious meal prepared by top local chefs.

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.

5. Explore Fort Lauderdale’s Culinary Scene via SUP or Kayak

A Unique Way to Experience the Water and Food Culture

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.

Conclusion

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.

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