Ft. Lauderdale is a popular vacation destination for its miles of beaches and colorful reefs. While there are several restaurants that are well-known for their ability to draw in tourists, the real gems are those that garner loyal attention from the locals. Dine like a Floridian at the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale.

Calypso in Pompano

Though it’s a bit outside Fort Lauderdale, locals are happy to make the drive a few minutes north to Pompano for Calypso. This seafood restaurant infuses its dishes with Caribbean flavor. The fish is prepared fresh and cut just before cooking, giving everything an authentic just-out-of-the-sea flavor. Though the menu includes burgers and chicken, seafood lovers should try at least one conch dish and pick their favorite sauce for one of the fresh catches on the menu.

Southport Raw Bar

Southport Raw Bar is a small local pub that touts itself as the oldest raw bar in Fort Lauderdale. With free dockage and patio seating, this is a popular spot for a fresh oyster lunch after a day on the water. Though the oysters take center stage, the entire menu gets rave reviews from loyal visitors with everything from crispy fish and chips to Old Bay shrimp. Located near several hotels in Ft. Lauderdale, this is an easy pick for visitors.

Tarks of Dania Beach

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A bit south of Fort Lauderdale, locals flock to Tarks of Dania Beach for the shrimp, conchs, and chicken wings. This hole in the wall is the perfect destination for laid back travelers who want to experience local flavor on a budget. You don’t go to Tarks for fine dining or an elegant atmosphere, but you can certainly belly up to the closely packed counter to quite literally rub elbows with local Floridians that love good food amidst views of some of the best beaches in the state.

Greek Islands Taverna

As the name suggests, the Greek Islands Taverna is a popular South Florida destination for Greek fare. The menu features many authentic Greek dishes and wines. The restaurant has local regulars who taste their way through the large menu, sampling all the delights over several visits. Some favorites include the dolmathakia, lamb chops, and octopus. This popular spot often has a long line, so show up early. This restaurant is easy to add to your agenda, located near the beach and several hotels like the Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal.

Blue Moon Fish Company

The Blue Moon Fish Company in Lauderdale by the Sea is known for its fresh seafood. You can sit outside and watch the water, belly up to the bar and people-watch in the restaurant, or enjoy a cozy table inside. The fresh fish always gets high points, as does the calamari and shrimp. The restaurant also serves a Sunday brunch that’s a local favorite for special events. This is a pricier option, but worth the splurge for fine dining.

If you want to add some delectable meals to your Ft. Lauderdale visit, these popular picks offer stellar food and service that’s consistently good, allowing them to keep local customers coming back for years. Ditch the tourist kitsch and try on the real Florida life for size at these establishments.