A Dock-and-Dine Dream in the Venice of America
Fort Lauderdale, often celebrated as the “Venice of America,” is a city sculpted by water. With over 165 miles of scenic canals, it’s more than just a destination for yachts and jet skis. It’s a vibrant, sun-soaked playground for foodies who love to cruise right up to their next culinary experience. Here, waterfront dining spots aren’t just a luxury—they’re a lifestyle. Whether you’re gliding through the Intracoastal Waterway or navigating the quieter turns of the New River, you’ll find countless opportunities to drop anchor and dig in.
From laid-back oyster bars to elegant seafood havens, Fort Lauderdale offers a diverse dining scene where the journey is just as exciting as the meal. This guide explores ten of the best restaurants you can visit by boat, each offering unique flavors, unforgettable views, and convenient dockage. Ready to explore? Find your next dock-and-dine adventure with Boat.Rent listings or start with a boat rental in Florida.
1. Coconuts
Laid-Back Local Favorite with a Killer View
Located right off Seabreeze Boulevard, Coconuts is the quintessential Fort Lauderdale hangout. With sweeping views of the Intracoastal Waterway and palm-fringed docks, it strikes a perfect balance between chill and cheerful. Its menu highlights Caribbean-inspired comfort food with fresh, local ingredients. You can dock your boat, grab a seat on the breezy patio, and watch the boats go by while sipping on a frozen margarita.
Coconuts is famous for its “Scoobies” (spicy garlic blue crab claws), but the coconut shrimp and lobster roll are also crowd-pleasers. The vibe is undeniably local—it’s where boaters, beachgoers, and food lovers unite. With pet-friendly seating and friendly staff, it’s the ideal first stop on your waterfront dining tour.
2. Boatyard
Upscale Coastal Dining with Sophistication
Boatyard is the embodiment of nautical elegance. With complimentary dockage and a polished marina setting, this upscale eatery offers a refined menu of coastal cuisine featuring sushi, oysters, seafood towers, and top-grade steaks. The ambiance is perfect for date nights or showing out-of-town guests the finer side of Fort Lauderdale.
Inside, expect chic décor and a floor-to-ceiling view of the water. Outside, enjoy patio seating next to million-dollar yachts. Their “Hook to Table” philosophy emphasizes sustainability and freshness, aligning with responsible fishing practices supported by agencies like the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
If you’re seeking elevated flavor in a boater-friendly space, Boatyard is a top-tier pick. le.
3. 15th Street Fisheries
Classic Florida Dining with a Dockside Twist
A true institution nestled inside the Lauderdale Marina, 15th Street Fisheries combines Old Florida charm with modern culinary finesse. One of its best-loved attractions? Feeding giant tarpon from the dock. Kids and adults alike enjoy this pre-meal tradition before heading upstairs for grilled mahi, conch fritters, and freshly shucked oysters.
The lower dockside lounge offers a casual vibe with live music and cold drinks, while the upstairs dining room serves elevated dishes and stunning views. This dual setup caters to every type of diner. Plus, its prime location means it’s easy to swing by while cruising the Intracoastal.
For a restaurant that has stood the test of time and tides, 15th Street Fisheries never disappoints.
4. Southport Raw Bar
No-Frills Vibes with Maximum Flavor
Southport Raw Bar is a Fort Lauderdale hidden gem. It’s unpretentious, casual, and filled with locals who know a thing or two about good seafood. With limited dockage and a salty ambiance that hasn’t changed in decades, Southport is as authentic as it gets.
Their oysters are famous, but the spicy steamed shrimp and grouper sandwiches hold their own. The wooden picnic tables, beer pitchers, and dockside breeze create a nostalgic, down-to-earth atmosphere. It’s also one of the oldest raw bars in town, adding a dose of history to your meal.
Boaters should arrive early, especially on weekends. Looking for more boater-friendly places like this? Check out our full blogs section for guides and boater spotlights.
5. Boathouse at the Riverside
Mediterranean Charm on the New River
Nestled at the historic Riverside Hotel, Boathouse offers elegant yet relaxed coastal cuisine with a Mediterranean flair. Expect handcrafted cocktails, mezze platters, and riverside tapas in one of the best patio settings in the city. It’s easily accessible via New River docks.
What sets Boathouse apart is its sophisticated menu and attention to detail. Fresh herbs, imported cheeses, and locally caught fish make every dish sing. Their mixologists also craft cocktails with seasonal ingredients, creating a drink menu that’s just as exciting as the food.
This is one of the best waterfront dining spots for a sunset dinner or leisurely lunch. Dock up and enjoy the vibrant scene while the New River flows past.
6. Shooters Waterfront
A High-Energy Brunch and Dinner Hub
Shooters Waterfront is more than a restaurant—it’s a weekend event. With free dockage, this hotspot is known for lively brunches, live DJs, and a waterfront view that stuns at sunset. From sushi rolls to filet mignon, the menu is as eclectic as the clientele.
The outdoor lounge area is perfect for sipping cocktails and watching the boat traffic. Weekends transform the place into a nautical social scene, where yachts line the slips and music fills the air. The service is quick, and the vibe is energetic.
Shooters is a must-visit if you want your waterfront meal to double as a party.
7. Kaluz
Modern American Fare with Polished Style
Located along the Intracoastal, Kaluz is a favorite among locals who enjoy their fine dining with a side of yacht watching. With dock space available for patrons, it combines modern architecture, sweeping water views, and a robust wine list.
Their menu features everything from seared scallops to burgers, all executed with finesse. The ambiance is sleek, with glass walls, soft lighting, and attentive service that makes it ideal for business dinners or special occasions.
Kaluz represents the more refined side of Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront dining spots, and the views from the dock are unbeatable.
8. Blue Moon Fish Co.
Elegant Dining in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
For those venturing slightly north, Blue Moon Fish Co. in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is worth the extra nautical miles. This upscale eatery is beloved for its seafood-centric menu, impeccable service, and intimate waterside setting. The raw bar is a standout, and their weekend brunch is often considered one of the best in the region (Visit Florida).
Dock space is available, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during high season. Expect a curated menu that includes Chilean sea bass, lobster risotto, and ahi tuna specials. The wine list is also top-notch.
Blue Moon Fish Co. is ideal for romantic dinners and refined palates. For serious food lovers, this is a must-visit gem.
9. Pirate Republic Seafood & Grill
Brazilian-Caribbean Fusion and Family Fun
This riverfront eatery offers a taste of Brazil with Caribbean flair. Pirate Republic is fun, festive, and completely family-friendly. The colorful decor and pirate-themed touches make it especially exciting for kids, while the food and cocktails keep adults satisfied.
The menu features moqueca (Brazilian seafood stew), grilled snapper, and tropical desserts. It’s a cultural fusion that feels right at home along Fort Lauderdale’s eclectic waterfront. The staff is warm, and the atmosphere is festive.
With boat slips available and an inclusive menu, Pirate Republic is perfect for multi-generational boating groups or international visitors.
10. The Wharf Fort Lauderdale
Where Street Food Meets Waterfront Nightlife
More than just a restaurant, The Wharf is a dynamic outdoor venue featuring local food trucks, live entertainment, and craft cocktails. Set along the New River, it offers a social atmosphere where boaters can tie up and wander into a food and music festival vibe.
The rotating vendors offer everything from tacos and lobster rolls to barbecue and vegan delights. Cocktails are available from several open-air bars, and there’s ample seating under covered canopies. The Wharf is particularly popular in the evenings and on weekends.
It’s a great spot to end your dock-and-dine day with music, lights, and laughter.
Bonus Tips for Boaters Who Love to Dine
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Call Ahead | Many places fill their dockage on weekends. Always confirm availability. |
| Check Tides | Especially important if dining along the New River with low-clearance bridges. |
| Stay Safe | Designate a sober captain or plan for alternative transport if drinking. |
The U.S. Coast Guard reminds all boaters to practice safe navigation and designate a captain when alcohol is involved (U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety).
Final Thoughts: Savoring Fort Lauderdale One Dock at a Time
Dining by boat in Fort Lauderdale is more than a convenience—it’s a way of life. These ten waterfront dining spots offer a delicious glimpse into the city’s culture, flavor, and charm. Whether you’re in the mood for elegant seafood, casual oysters, or a cocktail with a DJ set, the city’s waterways will take you there.
Ready to start your own dock-and-dine journey? Explore available rentals or become a vendor to share your boat with food lovers from all over. Fort Lauderdale is calling—and your table is waiting.
