Fort Lauderdale’s comfort food skews coastal: Southern staples, Caribbean soul, and classic diners with an oceanside twist.
From crispy fried seafood to slow-braised oxtail and fluffy biscuits, these five spots keep locals cozy and satisfied.
Southport Raw Bar & Restaurant
A waterfront standby, Southport is casual to the core and beloved for no-frills comfort.
Steam pots stacked with shrimp, crab, and corn bring instant happiness, while fried seafood platters deliver golden crunch without grease.
New England clam chowder and buttery garlic bread round things out.
Sit outside, watch the boats glide by, and settle into that Old Florida comfort zone.
Tom Jenkins’ Bar-B-Q
For smoky, saucy comfort, Tom Jenkins’ is the move.
The ribs have a deep bark and a gentle tug, the chopped pork is tender and juicy, and the chicken takes smoke beautifully.
The tangy, slightly sweet sauce is legendary, and sides like baked beans, mac and cheese, and candied yams complete the plate. It’s the kind of barbecue that makes you plan a nap afterward.
Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown is where comfort meets creativity.
Weekend brunch is iconic—banana bread grilled cheese, short rib Benedict, and thick-cut bacon with maple glaze.
Dinner leans cozy too: meatloaf with mashed potatoes, chicken pot pie with flaky crust, and a rotating soup that always lands.
Cocktails are balanced, service is warm, and the vibe is neighborhood-chic.
Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant
A nostalgic institution just south in Dania Beach, Jaxson’s is a comfort destination worth the short drive.
Burgers and chili dogs satisfy savory cravings, but the main draw is ice cream—made in-house and scooped into sundaes, banana splits, and the famous Kitchen Sink for the table.
The old-timey décor and buzzy energy make it pure joy for families and big kids alike.
The Floridian
This 24/7 diner has been an after-hours savior and morning comfort fix for decades.
Expect towering stacks of pancakes, crisp waffles, fluffy omelets, and classic tuna melts.
The turkey dinner with all the trimmings or the open-faced roast beef sandwich delivers vintage diner comfort. It’s not fancy—it’s familiar, filling, and exactly what you want at odd hours.
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