Hollywood, Florida, sitting between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, has developed a dining identity of its own.
The city’s newer restaurants blend coastal ingredients, Latin and Caribbean influences, and a laid-back beach-town vibe.
These five spots showcase why Hollywood is worth a dedicated food crawl, not just a day trip.
- GG’s Waterfront (Revitalized Modern Era)
GG’s Waterfront has long had one of the best locations in Hollywood, right on the Intracoastal, but its newer menus and refreshed vibe have made it a serious dining destination rather than just a view spot.
The vibe is polished yet relaxed—perfect for a sunset dinner or long lunch. Seafood is the main draw: fresh local fish, raw bar selections, oysters, stone crab when in season, and a range of grilled and roasted options.
You might start with crudo or ceviche, then move on to a whole grilled fish, a lobster pasta, or a classic seafood platter piled high with chilled shellfish.
Land options—like steaks and chops—are also well executed. Cocktails lean tropical: rum-forward creations, bright citrus-driven drinks, and frozen options for hot afternoons.
The waterfront setting makes every meal feel like a mini-vacation.
2. ETARU
ETARU, perched near the beach, brings a sleek, modern Japanese robatayaki concept to Hollywood.
The design is contemporary and airy, with big windows, clean lines, and a panoramic sense of openness that connects you to the water and sky.
The menu focuses on grilled items from the robata—skewered meats, seafood, and vegetables cooked over charcoal that brings a signature smokiness.
Sushi and sashimi rounds out the lineup, with high-quality fish and minimalist presentation.
Expect dishes like miso black cod, grilled prawns with chili and lime, tender beef skewers, and artful rolls with subtle, balanced flavors.
The cocktail list and wine program are equally refined, with drinks that mirror the kitchen’s precision and a range of sake options for pairing.
3. J28 Sandwich Bar
J28 is a casual spot with a serious devotion to Peruvian street food flavors, particularly sandwiches.
What it lacks in size and formality, it makes up for in character and punchy, satisfying food.
The menu centers on sandwiches built with juicy, marinated meats like pollo a la brasa, pork, or beef, layered with sauces like aji amarillo mayo and bright chimichurri, plus crisp vegetables for texture.
You’ll often find sides like yucca fries, plantains, or simple, well-executed salads. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the atmosphere is low-key and friendly—the kind of place you quickly add into your regular rotation once you’ve tried it.
4. Le Tub (Refreshed Classic with New Energy)
Le Tub is a long-standing Hollywood favorite, but its more recent energy and renewed attention to quality keep it in the conversation.
The waterfront, slightly ramshackle vibe feels like “Old Florida”—wooden decks, vintage decor, and a relaxed pace that invites you to hang out for a while. The burger is the headline item: a thick, juicy, no-frills patty that has inspired loyal fans for years.
The rest of the menu leans casual—think simple seafood plates, salads, and bar-friendly snacks that pair well with a cold beer or a strong cocktail. It’s not fancy, but it’s full of character, and it represents the kind of easygoing experience that newer Hollywood diners still seek out.
5. Takato (Nearby but Essential to the Scene)
Just up the way in Fort Lauderdale but influential for Hollywood diners, Takato blends Japanese and Korean influences in a beachfront setting that easily draws Hollywood locals.
The restaurant has a modern, coastal-chic interior with big windows and an outdoor area that puts you practically on the sand.
The menu covers sushi and sashimi, Korean-inspired plates, and creative small dishes perfect for sharing.
You might see items like crispy rice topped with spicy tuna, Korean short rib dishes, bright, citrusy crudos, tempura vegetables, and comforting bowls with rice or noodles.
The combination of precise technique and bold flavors makes it a standout. Cocktails bring in Asian ingredients—yuzu, shiso, ginger, and lychee—creating drinks that feel both beachy and refined.
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