14 minute read

LOCAL BITES

Oceanfront OASIS

CONTINUED

Chef Laurent Tourondel breaks down what not to miss at the new and improved Dune by Laurent Tourondel

FLI: What made you want to reimagine the Dune concept?

Tourondel: The waterfront in Fort Lauderdale is worldrenowned and something that attracts so many people from around the world to experience its beauty firsthand. When this opportunity came along to open a restaurant right on the beautiful beach, I couldn’t turn it down. I knew that I had an opportunity to create a unique concept and design for the space that will continue to cement South Florida’s place as a true culinary mecca.

What do you enjoy most about this Auberge property?

Our patio offers world-class panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. There is nothing quite like dining in the Florida sunshine against the cool, relaxing breeze and experiencing some of the best cuisine in the world.

As a Michelin-starred chef, what do you feel you bring to the Fort Lauderdale food scene?

We designed the dining experience intentionally to be memorable yet approachable and easy to experience several times a week, whether it’s happy hour, dinner, or just because. While I am thankful for past accolades and achievements, I don’t believe what makes a restaurant successful is a Michelin star. The best testament to a successful restaurant is a busy restaurant, and we are very thankful to have Dune by Laurent Tourondel be so well-received by our local community and so quickly [after] our opening here in Fort Lauderdale.

What else should someone know before visiting?

We have an incredible happy hour cocktail and bar menu which is no secret—it’s become the oceanfront gathering hot spot for weekly happy hours in South Florida. The menu offers great deals until the sun sets. If you haven’t had a chance to experience watching the sunset and enjoying happy hour at Dune, it’s a really exceptional vibe, which we encourage everyone to share with friends and family.

From top: Grilled bigeye tuna; ahi tuna crudo Siciliano.

LOCAL GEM

BAGEL BLISS

Bagels don’t count as carbs at Mitch’s Downtown in Flagler Village. At least, that’s what the neon signage says inside the hip outpost. But with menu items inspired by a New York–style deli, it’s better not to question it. Co-owner Adam Shidlofsky helms the new fast-casual bagel shop, which is an offshoot of his father’s namesake shop, Mitch’s Westside Bagels in Weston. Ahead of your first visit, we’ve rounded up three must-try items that will have you coming back for more. (mitchsdowntown.com)

1With breakfast served all day, options abound. For something sweet, opt for the Nutella-stuffed

French toast made with challah and topped with strawberries and bananas.

There’s only one way to go for lunch, and that’s the Big Papa. Savor piled-high slices of Carnegie Deli corned beef and pastrami topped with 1000

Island dressing and coleslaw. Sliced rye holds this monster sandwich together. Sides range from potato salad to truffle fries. You can’t go wrong with a bagel sandwich, and the Becta will satisfy cravings no matter the time of day. Choose from an assortment of bagels and let it serve as the foundation for thick-cut bacon, scrambled eggs, cheddar, avocado, and truffle oil.

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NEW IN TOWN

LIVE WELL

E v e r y o n e ’ s f a v o r i t e w e l l n e s s - d r i v e n e a t e r y h a s m a d e i t s m a r k i n F o r t L a u d e r d a l e . N o w o p e n a t S o c i e t y L a s O l a s b e h i n d t h e i c o n i c D a n i e l P o p p e r T h r i v e s c u l p t u r e , P u r a V i d a i s a n a n s w e r e d p r a y e r f o r t h o s e w h o c r a v e t h e b r a n d ’ s s u p e r f o o d s m o o t h i e s a n d a v o c a d o t o a s t s b u t d o n ’ t w a n t t o m a k e t h e d r i v e s o u t h t o M i a m i o r n o r t h t o W e s t P a l m . F o u n d e d b y h u s b a n d - a n d - w i f e t e a m J e n n i f e r a n d O m e r H o r e v , P u r a V i d a ’ s n e w e s t l o c a l e m a r k s t h e b r a n d ’ s n i n t h o u t p o s t a n d f e a t u r e s a s i m i l a r d e s i g n , w i t h a n I n s t a g r a m - w o r t h y a e s t h e t i c a n d m i n i m a l i s t t o u c h e s t h a t l e t t h e f o o d s h i n e . O u r f a v o r i t e s i n c l u d e a l m o n d b e r r y t o a s t , a s p i c y t u n a b o w l , a n d m a s s i v e c r o i s s a n t s f i l l e d w i t h B e l g i a n c h o c o l a t e a n d h a z e l n u t s p r e a d . ( p u r a v i d a m i a m i . c o m )

Clockwise from above: Avocado Smash; healthy options abound; Daniel Popper’s Thrive sculpture sets the scene at Pura Vida.

A selective guide to Broward County restaurants

THE LISTINGS

The Broward County dining scene has something for everyone, from funky Fort Lauderdale gastropubs to iconic waterfront restaurants dotting the county coastline. Here, find a listing of area standouts, organized by cuisine type, with descriptions, contact information, and price details for each. What the icons mean:

While not all-inclusive due to space limitations, our dining listings may vary every month and are constantly updated to showcase the culinary diversity of the area. Find more information on local dining options on fortlauderdaleillustrated.com.

$ Dinner entree under $10 $$ Most entrees $10-$25 $$$ Most entrees $25 or more

NOTICE TO RESTAURATEURS: The establishments listed and their descriptions are printed at the discretion of the editors of Fort Lauderdale Illustrated. They are not a form of advertisement, nor do they serve as a restaurant review. For more information, email editorial@palmbeachmedia.com

AMERICAN

BULEGREEN CAFÉ YARD Head to this Oakland Park outpost for all-day brunch favorites (think smoked salmon sandwiches and the OMG Waffle) and signature, old-fashion-style coffee. 3299 N. Dixie Hwy.,

Oakland Park (bulegreen.us) $ BEACH HOUSE POMPANO This upscale surf-andturf restaurant offers a fresh menu, with a view of the beach to complement your meal. 270 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., Pompano Beach (beachhouse pompano.com) $$ BURGERFI This eco-friendly burger joint has something for everyone. 1465 SE 17th St., Fort Lauderdale (burgerfi.com) $$ CANYON The bold flavors of Southwest, Asian, and

Latin American cuisines blend in Canyon’s famous prickly pear margarita, shrimp tostada, tuna tartare, and white chocolate bread pudding. 620 S. Federal

Hwy., Fort Lauderdale (canyonfl.com) $$$ DUNE BY LAURENT TOURONDEL This stunning waterfront restaurant offers classics with flair, including crispy Parmesan souffle, grilled colossal prawns, and grilled Australian lamb chops. 2200 N. Ocean Blvd.,

Fort Lauderdale (dunefl.com) $$$ COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT The dishes on the menu are all crafted to pair perfectly with one of the 60 wines bottled for the restaurant.

The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, 2568 E. Sunrise

Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (chwinery.com) $$ DELICIOUS RAW KITCHEN & JUICE BAR This nutrition hub offers a variety of nourishing superfood bowls, juices, smoothies, and other specialties designed with customers’ well-being in mind. 2276 S.

University Drive, Davie (delraw.com) $$ LUCKY FISH A casual tiki-centric outpost featuring a menu of tropical, handcrafted drinks and quick eats. 222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., Pompano Beach (luckyfishpompano.com) $$ MITCH’S DOWNTOWN Inspired by a New York–syle deli, this outpost serves up fresh bagels, stacked

French toasts, piled-high sandwiches, sweet treats, and more. 540 N. Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale (mitchsdowntown.com) $$ PURA VIDA This fast-casual concept believes in offering fresh, simple, and sustainable food to Lauderdale locals. 221 SW 1st Ave. Suite 3, Fort Lauderdale. (puravidamiami.com) $$ YOT BAR & KITCHEN A 360-degree view of the New

River inspires the locale’s nautical interiors, fresh menu, and adventurous cocktails. 2015 SW 20th St.,

Fort Lauderdale (yotlmc.com) $$

ASIAN

CHRISTINA WAN’S MANDARIN HOUSE Christina

Wan continues her family’s legacy of bringing traditional Chinese cuisine to South Florida, some with unorthodox flair. 664 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale (christinawans.com) $$

MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

MARCHING ORDERS

If you’re looking for a reason to raise a glass this month, you’ll find several as March leaps into spring. Known as the month of new beginnings, March offers a fresh start with the first day of a new season, bringing with it the promise of earlier dawns, brighter days, and later sunsets. We also honor Irish culture and history on St. Patrick’s Day, as well as raise awareness for the environment on World Wildlife Day (March 3), International Day of Forests (March 21), and World Water Day (March 22). In addition, March is National Nutrition Month in the U.S.

With so many vibrant dates lending inspiration, a refreshing green cocktail feels very apropos. The Secret Garden is a crisp blend of cucumber, grapes, mint, and lime that gives us reason to sip to spring. The frozen grapes especially are a treat beyond compare, as they won’t water down or cool down your drink too quickly like ice does. Plus, you have a deliciously nutritious snack waiting for you at the bottom of the glass. —Jules Aron

farm-to-table Italian bistro that puts a contemporary twist on its old-world heritage. 3358 NE 33rd St., Fort Lauderdale (scolapastabistro.com) $$

SERAFINA TRATTORIA ITALIANA

Candlelit views of the Middle River, FRANCESCA COVIELLO toothsome pasta dishes, and a spectacular vino selection promise a romantic evening at this Victoria Park nook. 926 NE 20th Ave., Fort Lauderdale (serabythewater.com) $$

LATIN AND MEXICAN

SECRET GARDEN

Ingredients (serves 6-8)

6 limes 1 cup cucumber, peeled and chopped, plus more sliced thinly for serving 3 cups jasmine tea 1 tbsp. fresh lemon balm, chopped 1 tbsp. fresh mint, chopped, plus more for garnish 2 cups gin, shochu, or white wine 1 cup grapes, frozen

POKE OG This customizable poke bowl joint has all the toppings and condiments you could dream of adding to your favorite Asian dish. 115 NW 6th, St.,

Fort Lauderdale (pokeog.com) $$ TAKATO The sleek, waterfront restaurant features a fusion of sushi and Korean-influenced appetizers, plus fresh fish and meat. 551 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach

Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (takatorestaurant.com) $$$

CAFÉ / COFFEE

THE ALCHEMIST Sit among lush foliage and enjoy an avocado slider paired with The Alchemist’s signature iced coffee. 2430 NE 13th Ave., Wilton Manors (thealchemist.cafe) $$ THE MODERN ROSE The café offers locally roasted coffee, and its menu changes seasonally. 331 SE 15th

Terrace, Fort Lauderdale (auniquecafe.com) $$ STORK’S CAFÉ & BAKERY This Wilton Manors coffeehouse satiates patrons’ espresso, homemade pastry, and sandwich cravings until late. 2505 NE 15th

Ave., Wilton Manors (storksbakery.com) $$

To freeze the grapes, wash and dry them before placing on a lined baking tray. Freeze for about an hour. In a juicer, process the limes and cup of cucumber, then strain into a pitcher. Steep the jasmine tea along with the lemon balm and mint for 20 minutes. Strain and cool. Add to the pitcher along with preferred spirit, thin slices of cucumber, and frozen grapes. Garnish with mint sprigs.

GYORGY PAPP FOR ZEN AND TONIC

ITALIAN

CAFFÉ EUROPA A go-to spot for lunch or dinner, this restaurant’s Calabrian-inspired fare is perfect for sharing with friends and family. 910 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort

Lauderdale (caffeeuropalasolas.com) $$ HERITAGE Bringing a New York vibe to Fort Lauderdale, this restaurant puts upscale twists on old

Italian classics. 903 NE 5th Ave., Fort Lauderdale (heritageftl.com) $$ SCOLAPASTA BISTRO Family is at the heart of this EATAPAS An authentic Spanish menu is available with plenty of tapas to accompany a great atmosphere with live music and Flamenco dancing. 4140 N.

Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale (eatapasfl.com) $$ TACOCRAFT TAQUERIA & TEQUILA BAR This tacofocused Mexican joint offers fun bar seating and classic

Mexican favorites. 510 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale (tacocraft.com) $$

MEDITERRANEAN

GREEK ISLANDS TAVERNA The spirit of the Aegean is alive and well at this gem that serves traditional

Greek dishes rooted in bright flavors and savory spices. 3300 N. Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (greekislandstaverna.com) $$ THE HUMMUS HOUSE This Middle Eastern-Israeli counter doles out amazing vegan- and vegetarianfriendly fare. 900 NE 20th Ave., Fort Lauderdale (thehummushouseftl.com) $$

SEAFOOD

BOATYARD Come for the “Hook to Table” seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and vegan-friendly selections, and stay for the photo-worthy lofted ceilings, oar chandelier, and abundant natural light. 1555 SE 17th St., Fort Lauderdale (boatyard.restaurant) $$$ SEA WATCH ON THE OCEAN This landmark eatery has been serving some of Broward County’s finest fruits de mer for over 45 years. 6002 N. Ocean Blvd.,

Fort Lauderdale (seawatchontheocean.com) $$

STEAK HOUSE

COUNCIL OAK STEAKS & SEAFOOD A signature raw bar, a wine room boasting more than 400 labels, and an open kitchen complement the Hard Rock favorite’s famous USDA-certified cuts. 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood (seminolehardrockhollywood.com) $$$ DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE A sophisticated chophouse serving up bold renditions of steak and fish alongside modern cocktails. 501 E. Las Olas Blvd., Suite 150, Fort Lauderdale (delfriscosgrille.com) $$$ STEAK 954 This uber-chic coastal alcove’s menu is studded with decadent dishes. W Hotel, 401 N. Fort

Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale (steak954. com) $$$

MAIDEN VOYAGE

BUYING INFORMATION

PAGES 60-61

Ruffle cutout blazer ($5,400), double-pleated trousers ($1,360), Alexander McQueen, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, alexandermcqueen.com; Viv’ Go thick-soled loafers with metal buckles ($1,195), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour Shops, rogervivier.com.

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Ruffle off-the-shoulder midi dress ($2,500), Giambattista Valli, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami, saksfifthavenue.com; Preppy Viv’ black patent leather Chelsea booties with metal buckles and side stitching ($1,395), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour Shops, rogervivier.com.

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Ruffle cropped jacket ($3,850), leather midi skirt ($4,650), Alexander McQueen, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami Design District, alexander mcqueen.com; Viv’ Go thick-soled loafers with metal buckles ($1,195), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour Shops, rogervivier.com.

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Crystal-embellished dotted-tulle gown ($4,050), Jenny Packham, Marissa Collections, Palm Beach, marissacollections.com; Viv’ Go thicksoled loafers with metal buckles ($1,195), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour Shops, rogervivier.com.

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Gold and silver sequin dress with collar ($650), Badgley Mischka, badgleymischka.com

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Puff-sleeve belted cocktail dress ($595), Badgley Mischka, badgley mischka.com

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Strapless midi dress with bow ($3,695), Monique Lhuillier, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami, saksfifthavenue.com

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Animal print silk shirt ($990), wide-legged palazzo pants ($1,990), Carolina Herrera, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour Shops, Miami, saksfifthavenue.com; Naplack loafers with crystal embellishments ($850), Jimmy Choo, Aventura Mall, jimmychoo.com.

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High-low asymmetrical gown with embroidered trim ($650), Badgley Mischka, badgleymischka.com; Viv’ Go thick-soled loafers with metal buckles ($1,195), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour Shops, rogervivier.com.

Highest prices paid for your Jewelry, Diamonds, Watches and Modern Art.