Thai street food favorites like kao soi and guay tiew gai and elaborate spreads like a half-boneless roasted duck reign at this unpretentious Deerfield Beach newbie. On weekdays before 2:30 p.m., there are plenty of lunch specials in the $15-and-under range that will give you enough leftovers for an extra meal (or two).

This cozy, traditional Italian restaurant, from former Dune By LT executive chef Kreidich and his wife Maya, offers a massive chicken “Parma John,” branzino, fresh-prepped pizza concoctions, and more. Snag a seat at its quaint bar or window—either way, it’s a welcoming neighborhood vibe.

As thin and crispy smash burgers slowly emerge on menus everywhere, this Oakland Park-bred favorite has had a popular food truck operation since 2021. Laser Wolf and Lauderale have been regular spots to catch it parked. In 2024, the spot opened its first brick-and-mortar location on Dixie Highway. Beyond burgers, there are hot dogs, tots, and fries, too.

Amid the Sawgrass Mills madness is this Mexican oasis from celebrity chef James Tahhan. Whichever route you take here – from pork crackling-topped carnitas to Oaxacan mole enchiladas – start with a perfected margarita and end with the mounds of homemade churros.

This modern Italian destination in Flagler Village is cutting above the overcluttered competition with clever cocktails (e.g., the Honey Ryder, with dark rum, bourbon, spiced pear brandy, and honey... all in one). Its homemade meatballs, dolloped with a memorable herb ricotta, are worth an order or two.

Consider this Fort Lauderdale Beach’s newest spot to party-hardy – it’s right on the Intracoastal, a stone’s throw from the beach, and there’s a food hall with eight food kiosks. The Shorely, a 500-person ferry morphed into an open-air cocktail and entertainment destination, is its undeniable anchor (pun intended).

In the heart of Hollywood, just a couple blocks west of Young Circle – you’ll find the town’s emerging heart for seafood goodness. There’s an Asian influence here, with a kickin’ Thai crab curry bowl, Hamachi, and, yes, oysters front and center.

Broward’s Asian food hall includes five restaurants and bars to pick and pull from, including Temple Street Eatery and local Peking duck powerhouse Gold Marquess. Boba Street Cage has perfected pearls, so save room.