5 Underrated Sunrise, Florida Restaurants that Are Absolutely Worth Trying

In the heart of Broward County, Sunrise is known for its sprawling shopping mall, Sawgrass Mills, and the Florida Panthers arena. But beyond these major attractions lies a vibrant, multicultural community with a food scene to match. The city’s suburbs and strip malls are home to an incredible array of authentic international restaurants, particularly from Latin America and the Caribbean.

To experience the real flavor of Sunrise, you have to skip the food court and explore the neighborhood eateries that locals flock to. These family-run spots offer a delicious and authentic alternative to the chain restaurants. Here are five of Sunrise’s best underrated restaurants.

1. La Perla Seafood Restaurant

La Perla is a hidden gem for lovers of Peruvian cuisine, especially its world-famous ceviche. This unassuming restaurant serves up incredibly fresh and flavorful seafood dishes. Their ceviche mixto, a zesty mix of fish, shrimp, and calamari marinated in lime juice (“leche de tigre”), is a must-order. Beyond ceviche, the menu features Peruvian staples like Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef) and Jalea (fried seafood platter). It’s an authentic taste of Peru in a casual setting.

2. Tin Fish

Located right on a lake, Tin Fish offers a quintessential casual Florida dining experience that feels miles away from the nearby mall. The vibe is laid-back and rustic, with a huge outdoor patio. As the name suggests, the focus is on fresh fish. You can get it grilled, fried, or blackened in tacos, sandwiches, or platters. The food is simple, well-prepared, and delicious. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer and a great fish sandwich while watching the water.

3. Don Pan

A beloved institution for South Florida’s Latin American community, Don Pan is a fantastic bakery and cafe that offers a taste of Venezuela, Colombia, and beyond. It’s the perfect place for a quick breakfast or lunch. Start your day with a cafe con leche and a cachito (a ham-filled croissant-like pastry) or grab one of their excellent sandwiches for lunch. The real stars, however, are the vast array of pastries, cakes, and sweets that fill the display cases.

4. Paolo’s of Sunrise

For old-school Italian-American comfort food, Paolo’s of Sunrise is a local institution. This family-owned restaurant has been serving the community for years, and it feels like stepping back in time in the best way possible. The menu is packed with classics like Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna, and Veal Francese, all served in generous portions. Don’t forget the garlic rolls—they are legendary. It’s a warm, welcoming spot for a hearty, traditional Italian meal.

5. Kababi Cafe

Kababi Cafe offers an authentic and delicious journey into Persian cuisine. The aroma of grilling meats and fragrant rice greets you as you enter this cozy, family-run restaurant. The menu is centered around expertly grilled kabobs—from juicy beef koobideh (ground beef) to tender barg (filet mignon). These are served with heaping portions of saffron-scented basmati rice. It’s a flavorful and satisfying experience that highlights the rich culinary traditions of Iran.