Craving seafood with a view or a vibrant spot to unwind? At Shooters Fort Lauderdale, scenic Intracoastal views meet a diverse menu that caters to all palates. Step into this local favorite and see why the dining experience here is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the eclectic culinary offerings in one of Ft Lauderdales best brunch destinations, a place that is in our rotation on a regular basis.
Shooters Waterfront in Fort Lauderdale Summary
- Shooters Waterfront in Fort Lauderdale provides a stunning waterfront dining experience with a lively atmosphere, catering to a variety of tastes with seafood specialties, steak, and vegetarian/vegan options.
- Guests can enjoy exceptional service, happy hour discounts, weekend brunches, and regular live entertainment that amplifies the chill waterfront vibe of the restaurant.
- While customer reviews largely praise Shooters for its delicious food, beautiful views, and attentive service, some note areas for improvement such as pricing and wait times during busy hours.
Discovering Shooters Waterfront
Nestled in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Shooters Waterfront has been a well-loved waterfront dining spot since it first opened its doors in 1982. Taken over by Meghan Leckey and her father William McIntyre in 2014, the restaurant has been a significant part of Fort Lauderdale’s evolution, offering diners a unique blend of relaxed atmosphere and culinary excellence.
Located by the Intracoastal Waterway, Shooters Waterfront’s prime position offers diners stunning views as they indulge in the restaurant’s array of delicious food. The lively energy that fills the space adds to the ambiance, creating a compelling dining experience that attracts both locals and tourists.
Beyond its remarkable location, the allure of Shooters Waterfront is also found in its menu. The restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, but it’s not just about seafood. The menu also features a range of other tantalizing options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their gastronomic preferences.
Location and atmosphere
Shooters Waterfront is conveniently situated off Oakland Park Boulevard, making it easily accessible from I-95 or A1A. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, finding your way to this popular waterfront dining destination is a breeze.
Upon arrival, you’re greeted by the restaurant’s relaxed environment. The ambiance is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a date night, a family dinner, or a casual lunch with friends. The restaurant’s location plays a significant role in shaping this ambiance, with the outdoor seating providing unblocked views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
The interior design significantly contributes to the dining experience at Shooters Waterfront. The cool bar layout and great outdoor seating create an awesome atmosphere that perfectly complements the Intracoastal location. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted by a strong sense of atmosphere that paves the way for a memorable dining experience.
Cuisine and menu highlights
Seafood lovers are in for a treat at Shooters Waterfront, with the menu featuring an array of fresh seafood dishes, including:
- Succulent swordfish
- Lobster
- Flavorful scallops
- Baked Seafood Pasta
There’s so much food to enjoy, including great food, that you’ll be spoiled for choice and have such a great sense of satisfaction.
But the menu isn’t limited to seafood. The menu also includes a variety of non-seafood items like the Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine Pasta and the Guava-Chili Chicken Wings. And for those who prefer vegetarian or vegan options, the restaurant offers dishes like the veggie burger and sushi that can be adjusted to be vegan.
For steak enthusiasts, the Grilled Skirt Steak is a must-try. The restaurant also offers healthier options like their beet salad, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, no matter their dietary preferences.
The Dining Experience
Though the food and location are definite contributors to Shooters Waterfront’s popularity, it’s the comprehensive dining experience that truly distinguishes the restaurant. From the moment you step in, you’re treated to amazing service that enhances your dining experience.
The restaurant also hosts a happy hour from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays, providing an ideal chance to relax with discounted drinks and bites. But the fun isn’t reserved for weekdays alone. On weekends, Shooters Waterfront beckons with a brunch that allows guests to choose between a buffet-style or à la carte menu.
Beyond standard dining, the restaurant organizes an array of special events and live entertainment. Whether it’s the live performances on the weekends or the lively ambiance created by the steel drums, there’s always something happening at Shooters Waterfront that adds to the dining experience.
Service and Staff at Shooters in Fort Lauderdale
When it comes to service, Shooters Waterfront goes above and beyond to ensure that their guests feel valued. The staff undergo rigorous training that includes menu tasting and opportunities for growth within the company. The result is a team that is dedicated, knowledgeable, and eager to provide top-notch service.
This commitment to excellent service is reflected in the experiences of diners. Guests frequently commend the staff for their professionalism and attentiveness, noting how their dedication contributes significantly to the overall dining experience.
The consistent positive feedback about the service is a testament to the staff’s efforts. From the hostesses to the bar staff and servers, the team at Shooters Waterfront works hard to ensure that every guest leaves with a smile. In recognition of their dedication, we want to give a staff awesome special shout to everyone involved.
A Great Place for Brunch, Lunch, or a Random Cocktail!
The happy hour at Shooters Waterfront is an ideal moment to relax and let loose. From 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays, guests can enjoy discounts on cocktails, wine by the glass, and select bites. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the restaurant’s amazing service and food without putting a dent in your wallet.
Weekends at Shooters Waterfront are a gastronomic delight with the restaurant’s weekend brunch. The brunch menu features a variety of tasty dishes that go beyond your usual brunch options. The variety and quality of the food, combined with the restaurant’s exceptional service, make the weekend brunch a must-try experience.
Whether you’re relaxing post-work with discounted drinks during happy hour or enjoying a laid-back weekend brunch, the dining experiences at Shooters Waterfront are tailored to satisfy every taste and preference.
Special events and live entertainment
Shooters Waterfront is more than a dining destination; it’s a hotspot of activity. The restaurant regularly hosts special events such as:
- holiday celebrations
- private parties
- birthdays
- rehearsal dinners
- weddings
Shooters Waterfront ensures an unforgettable experience with its amazing service and delicious food.
The restaurant also features live entertainment, further enhancing the dining experience. On weekends, guests can enjoy live music performances, while live steel drums create a chill waterfront vibe during the day. In the evening, a DJ takes over, adding to the weekend buzz.
These live events, coupled with the restaurant’s stunning location and delicious cuisine, create a lively and chill atmosphere. It all comes together to make Shooters Waterfront a dining destination that offers much more than just food.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Shooters Waterfront’s commitment to providing a memorable dining experience is reflected in the positive reviews it has garnered. From the food and drinks to the service and ambiance, there are many aspects that customers appreciate about the restaurant.
Many reviews praise the restaurant’s delicious food, particularly:
- Seafood Pasta
- Apple Pie
- Fish Tacos
- Coconut Shrimp
- Lamb Chops
- Lobster Roll – my personal favorite for brunch or lunch.
The beautiful views and cool vibe, along with the excellent service, are also frequently mentioned, attesting to the overall appeal of this wonderful restaurant.
However, as with any establishment, there are areas for improvement. Some customers feel that the food is a bit pricey, while others have expressed dissatisfaction with the reservation system.
Despite these criticisms, the positive reviews greatly outnumber the negative ones, showing that most diners leave Shooters Waterfront satisfied.
Positive experiences
The customer reviews for Shooters Waterfront are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience. Many customers have expressed their appreciation for the delicious food and drinks, noting that they are worth every penny.
The attentive and friendly service also receives high marks from customers, often being described as an awesome service. Staff members like Greg and Bryan are often singled out for their exceptional service, going above and beyond to make guests’ experiences memorable.
Additionally, the beautiful waterfront setting is a highlight for many customers. They love the restaurant’s location by the Intracoastal, which offers a perfect backdrop for dining, and enhances the overall ambiance of the restaurant.
Areas for improvement
While Shooters Waterfront has received many positive reviews, there are some areas where customers feel the restaurant could improve. Some customers find the food to be overpriced, feeling that the quality doesn’t always match the high prices.
Wait times during peak hours have also been a source of dissatisfaction for some customers. The restaurant has made efforts to address this issue, implementing measures such as virtual queues, better staff scheduling, and a paging system to cut down on wait times.
Despite these criticisms, the overwhelming majority of reviews for Shooters Waterfront are positive. The restaurant remains committed to excellence, considering customer feedback to consistently enhance the dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes and Drinks
A trip to Shooters Waterfront would not be complete without sampling some of the restaurant’s star dishes and drinks. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a cocktail connoisseur, the restaurant’s menu is sure to have something that will tantalize your taste buds.
When it comes to seafood, the Coconut Shrimp is a must-try. This signature dish is a favorite among diners, offering a unique flavor that sets it apart. Other highly recommended dishes include:
- Seafood Pasta
- Apple Pie
- Fish Tacos
- Lamb Chops
- Lobster Roll
These dishes, including the wife’s chicken sandwich, offer a culinary experience that is sure to delight with their exceptional food taste, providing a nice unexpected surprise.
The restaurant’s unique offerings extend beyond its food. They offer a pet-friendly dog menu, catering to guests who wish to dine with their furry friends. Additionally, their menu features a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that all guests can find something to enjoy.
Signature seafood dishes
As a seafood restaurant, Shooters Waterfront offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes that are sure to impress. Some customer favorites include:
- The Seafood Platter: a selection of the freshest seafood, prepared in a way that enhances the natural flavors
- Grilled Salmon: a perfectly cooked salmon fillet, served with a side of vegetables
- Lobster Bisque: a creamy and flavorful soup, made with fresh lobster meat
- Shrimp Scampi: succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter, served over a bed of pasta
These dishes are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste.
Another must-try dish is the Coconut Shrimp. This signature dish offers a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other seafood dishes. The shrimp is perfectly cooked and coated in a delicious coconut batter, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying.
While the Seafood Platter and Coconut Shrimp are definite favorites, the menu also features other seafood dishes that are worth trying. From the oysters to the calamari, each dish is prepared with care, ensuring that the quality and taste are consistently excellent.
Shooters Waterfront Photos
(This section is being updated. Please check back soon!)
Nearby Attractions and Similar Restaurants
Shooters Waterfront’s strategic location in Fort Lauderdale, FL opens up opportunities for guests to discover a range of nearby attractions. From the sun-kissed Fort Lauderdale Beach to the bustling Las Olas Boulevard, there’s plenty to see and do in the area.
For those looking to experience more of Fort Lauderdale’s natural beauty, the Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter is a must-visit. There’s also the Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Tour, which offers a unique way to explore the area’s waterways. And if you’re in the mood for some local flavor, spots like Edelweiss German Bakery & European Cafe are worth checking out.
If you’re interested in exploring other dining options in the area, there are several restaurants that offer similar experiences to Shooters Waterfront. Some options include:
- Mastro’s Ocean Club
- Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill
- Thasos Restaurant
- La Dolce Vita
- Pan’e Dolci Italian
- Sands Harbor Waterfront Restaurant
These are just a few of the options available, including a few more beets for those who enjoy them.
Summary
In conclusion, Shooters Waterfront offers a unique dining experience that combines stunning views, delicious cuisine, and exceptional service. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a cocktail enthusiast, the restaurant’s wide range of offerings ensures that there’s something for everyone. And with its prime location in Fort Lauderdale, you can also explore a variety of nearby attractions and similar restaurants. So why wait? Embark on a culinary journey at Shooters Waterfront and let the flavors and views transport you to a world of gastronomic delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of seafood dishes can I find at Shooters Waterfront?
You can find a variety of seafood dishes at Shooters Waterfront, such as swordfish, lobster, scallops, and Baked Seafood Pasta. Enjoy!
When can I enjoy happy hour at Shooters Waterfront?
You can enjoy happy hour at Shooters Waterfront on weekdays from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Does Shooters Waterfront offer any vegan or vegetarian options?
Yes, Shooters Waterfront offers vegan and vegetarian options, such as the veggie burger and customizable sushi. Enjoy your meal!
Are there any gluten-free options at Shooters Waterfront?
Yes, there are gluten-free options like gulf shrimp and beet salad at Shooters Waterfront. Enjoy your meal!
What are the must-try cocktails at Shooters Waterfront?
You must try the Lime in the Coconut and the Strawberry Pineapple cocktails at Shooters Waterfront! These are their signature cocktails and are highly recommended.
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.
