Fort Lauderdale isn’t just about sun and sand; it’s a lively city filled with memorable dining experiences that reflect its diverse culture and laid-back charm. Whether you’re craving a guided tour of trendy restaurants, a scenic cruise with a hefty barbecue, or a lively bar crawl, there’s plenty here to satisfy your appetite.
We’re particularly fond of the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour, which combines local flavor with a walk along the lively Las Olas Blvd., making it a perfect pick for those wanting to soak in the city’s vibrant vibe.
If you prefer a boat ride that combines sightseeing with an appetizing dinner, the All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise offers a fun, family-friendly option. Either way, Fort Lauderdale’s food scene is all about mixing excellent cuisine with memorable settings, whether on land or water.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a mix of guided food tours, river cruises with dinner, and waterfront bar hopping. Each offers a unique way to experience Fort Lauderdale’s flavors and scenery — from walking along Las Olas Boulevard to cruising past multimillion-dollar mansions. For a complete look at what each experience involves, check out the detailed descriptions below.
- Quick Overview
- 1. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour
- 2. All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise
- 3. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour
- 4. Fort Lauderdale: Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner
- 5. Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise
- How to Choose
- Final Thoughts
1. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour
At number one, the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour stands out for its walk through the bustling Las Olas Blvd., a lively street lined with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Priced at $114 per person, this 2.5-hour tour offers a chance to sample South Florida’s innovative cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
What makes it special is its focus on authentic, creative bites that embody the area’s cultural blend and spontaneous spirit.
Guided by local experts, you’ll make several stops that highlight some of the best spots in the neighborhood. The tour includes tastings of diverse dishes, from pastrami sliders to artisanal drinks, and plenty of opportunities to chat with chefs and fellow travelers.
Visitors consistently praise the tour guide Howie, who brings energy and insight, and the chance to explore places they’d never discover alone.
The walk along the Riverwalk also highlights Fort Lauderdale’s lush waterfront parks and tropical vibe, adding a scenic backdrop to your evening.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for food lovers who want a relaxed, social experience with a taste of local flavor and a lively atmosphere. It’s especially good for those keen on discovering hidden culinary gems in a walkable downtown.
2. All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise
For around $80, the All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise offers a full evening of entertainment on the water. This 4-hour cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat combines scenic views of Fort Lauderdale’s multimillion-dollar homes and yachts with a hearty barbecue feast.
The cruise departs from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center and takes you on a narrated tour of the “Venice of America.” Upon reaching the tropical island, you’re treated to an endless buffet of ribs, chicken, and traditional sides, followed by a lively variety show featuring comedians, jugglers, ventriloquists, and Polynesian dancers.
Reviewers mention how the boat ride is both informative and fun, with some noting the food could be improved, but overall, the experience offers great value especially for families or groups wanting a little of everything.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those seeking a lively, all-in-one evening—combining scenic water views, a substantial barbecue, and lively entertainment.
3. Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour
For a social night out, the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour offers an engaging way to explore local bars and hidden restaurants. For $109, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours enjoying a variety of delicious dishes and three alcoholic beverages included in the price.
The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who will introduce you to Fort Lauderdale’s craft beverage scene and favorite watering holes.
This experience is great for travelers looking to meet new friends while sampling diverse bites and drinks in a relaxed, informal setting. It’s particularly suited for those who want a taste of the local nightlife without the hassle of planning or navigating solo.
The tour’s informal, social vibe makes it a good choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to get a real sense of Fort Lauderdale’s lively bar scene.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting an interactive and social evening with plenty of time for conversation and discovery in local bars.
4. Fort Lauderdale: Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner
At number four, the Fort Lauderdale: Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner offers an immersive water-based experience for about $80. This 3-hour cruise on a speedboat allows you to see Fort Lauderdale’s famous luxury mansions and mega-yachts along the Intracoastal Waterway.
After the cruise, you’ll enjoy a meal at Bokampers Sports Bar & Grille, making it a great option for those who want scenic views combined with casual dining.
This tour stands out because of its speedboat thrill—it’s not just a slow cruise, but a lively ride that gets your adrenaline up while showcasing the city’s opulence. The crew is known for their lively music and engaging narration, which enhances the experience. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to see the waterfront mansions up close and enjoy the lively atmosphere on board.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who like a bit of adventure on the water with the bonus of a waterfront meal afterward.
5. Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise
Rounding out our list, the Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise offers a 3-hour scenic ride on the Sea Rocket Speed Boat, combined with a meal at Bokampers Sports Bar & Grille.
Although it currently has no reviews, the itinerary promises views of cruise ships, cargo ships, and the iconic Fort Lauderdale coastline, making it attractive for those wanting a quick, lively cruise with casual dining.
The cruise features engaging narration from the crew, lively music, and the chance to spot yachts and waterfront homes. The meal at Bokampers includes favorites like wings and ribs, perfect after a day of sightseeing or relaxing on the water.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly option for travelers who want a quick but scenic and lively cruise with casual dining afterward, ideal for a compact itinerary.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider how much time you want to spend and what kind of experience appeals most. For a relaxed, food-focused evening with local flair, the Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour offers a true taste of the city’s culinary scene.
If water and scenery are your priorities, the Intracoastal cruises provide memorable views combined with dining—some on a speedboat, others on a classic cruise.
Budget-minded travelers or families might prefer the BBQ cruise, which includes a lively show and ample food. For those eager to hit Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife with a social twist, the Dinner & Drinks Tour provides a fun, interactive way to meet locals and enjoy craft drinks.
Booking early is recommended for all, especially during peak travel seasons. Consider your interests—food, scenery, nightlife—and your schedule when choosing. For example, if you’re short on time, the short cruises with dinner might be best. If you want a leisurely, food-filled evening, the land-based tours are ideal.
Final Thoughts
Fort Lauderdale offers a fantastic variety of dining experiences that showcase its culinary diversity and scenic beauty. From walking tours along Las Olas to lively water cruises, each option delivers a unique way to enjoy the city’s flavors and views.
For couples or foodies who enjoy exploring local gems, the Downtown Dinner & Drinks Tour is a top pick. Families or groups looking for a lively night with entertainment will find the BBQ cruise to be a good fit.
No matter your style, these tours are worth planning ahead for—booking early ensures you won’t miss out on a memorable meal or water adventure in Fort Lauderdale. With so much variety, every traveler can find a way to indulge in the city’s delicious, waterfront charm.