The Katherine isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a vibe! Chefs Timon and Marissa Balloo in Fort Lauderdale. The restaurant, as the staff will tell you, is a menu of love. This love for food became a menu that curates the couples travels across the world.
This said, you can expect a blend of Caribbean, South American, and European dishes at The Katherine in Fort Lauderdale. You’ll find additional flavors from around the world here including Trinidadian, Chinese, and Indian dishes.
There is nothing quite like it, so let’s get straight into our Katherine restaurant review.
What to Expect at The Katherine Restaurant
You’ll often hear of this placed discussed among the top Fort Lauderdale dining venues, so naturally, I had to see what all the fuss was about!
Let’s set the table with all the accolades this establishment has earned in it’s short time being open off Broward Blvd in Fort Lauerdale. This venue was previously The Foxy Brown, which moved north.
The Katherine was a James Beard nominee in 2023, earning semi finalist in that year.
Yelp recognized it as the best new restaurant in the US in 2023.
The Miami New Times called it the best new restaurant in Broward County in 2023.
See where I’m going here?
A lot like the Heritage restaurant, which is just north of here, you’d expect to find this ambiance and 40 person restaurant in New York City’s most eclectic neighborhoods. We are spoiled to have it right here in Fort Lauderdale.
The high-energy ambiance, as described in numerous Yelp reviews, makes it perfect for both date nights and casual upscale dining, providing an excited and warm area within its small, cozy setting.
It’s worth noting that the menu is designed for sharing. You’ll get small, but not TINY portions, that are designed for being shared by all in your party.
Let’s Start With Wine & Cocktails
While they don’t have a full liquor license, you can find beer, wine, and sake and wine based cocktails.
Don’t let that steer you away from ordering a Negroni or a spicy jalapeno margarita as both are sophisticated and you won’t know you are drinking a sake based cocktail. Both are crowd favorites.
Clam Chowder Fries and Other Signature Dishes
The most sought after dish here is an appetizer made based on a trip to Europe. The Clam Chowder fries are like nothing you’ve ever had and are a must-order when you book a reservation at the Katherine. I’ll add that the
Bringing Miami Flavors to Fort Lauderdale
The Katherine serves as more than a restaurant; it acts as a culinary bridge between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Timon Balloo’s renowned culinary experiences in Miami, including his time at Chef Allen’s, Azul at the Mandarin Oriental, and his James Beard-nominated efforts, form the foundation for the innovative menu at The Katherine.
Discover the delights of our one menu, featuring dishes like:
- Jerk Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Florida Snapper Curry
- Thai red curry mahi mahi
- Indian-style grilled street corn
- Roasted marrow bones with bacon marmalade
- Classic Steak
These dishes are deeply rooted in the Caribbean and Thai heritage of the husband and wife team. It screams “New York City” to me, but remember, they made their name just down the street in Miami. The Katherine’s menu offers a variety of innovative comfort foods that are perfect for sharing.
They do add new menu items throughout the year and seasonally, and Balloo keeps his favorite Miami dishes that patrons loved at his previous restaurants (like Sugarcane) here at The Katherine.
Making a Reservation at The Katherine
Securing a reservation at The Katherine is a simple process. You can make a reservation through the Resy platform or the Resy app. To increase your chances of securing a preferred dining time, it’s recommended that you book as soon as reservations open.
If your desired reservation time is not available, don’t worry. You can join a notify list through Resy to be alerted about same-day cancellations. To avoid a $25 per person fee, make sure to cancel by 12 pm on the day of the reservation, adhering to The Katherine’s cancellation policy.
For those unable to book in advance, The Katherine offers seating in the bar and covered patio areas for walk-in guests, but it’s limited seating and first come, first served.
Yelp Reviews and Recommendations
The Katherine boasts stellar Yelp reviews, with patrons frequently praising the staff’s absolutely phenomenal service. The attentive and friendly staff plays a crucial role in enhancing the satisfaction of the guests, often going above and beyond to ensure that every guest has an unforgettable dining experience.
What sets The Katherine apart is its dedication to hospitality. Guests value the helpful recommendations made by the staff, with some expressing eagerness to return for new experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, you’re sure to appreciate the thoughtful recommendations that the staff provides.
Events and Happenings
The Katherine buzzes with energy as a hub of events. Although specific details regarding events, themed nights, or special menus at The Katherine currently cannot be found online, guests are encouraged to contact the restaurant directly for the latest happenings.
The Katherine Contact Information:
- Official Website for reservations
- Phone number: (754) 216-0690
Summary
In conclusion, I think I’ve made it fairly obvious that The Katherine in Fort Lauderdale lived up to all it’s hype. It’s a restaurant we have added to our rotation and look forward to enjoying it with people who haven’t dined there yet for a truly one of a kind experience. We’re giving it our full recommendation, so please don’t take that lightly. We don’t do that very often!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the people behind The Katherine?
The Katherine is run by Timon and Marissa Balloo, a dynamic husband and wife duo.
What are some of the signature dishes at The Katherine?
Some of the signature dishes at The Katherine include clam chowder fries, sherry roasted carrots, Thai-Style Charred Cabbage Salad, and Slow-Braised Duck Orecchiette. Enjoy!
How can I make a reservation at The Katherine?
You can make a reservation at The Katherine through the Resy platform or the Resy app.
What are some tips for a great dining experience at The Katherine?
To have a great dining experience at The Katherine, consider booking in the evening from Wednesday to Sunday, requesting indoor seating, and checking the parking options in advance. Enjoy your meal!
How can I find out about events and happenings at The Katherine?
You should contact the restaurant directly to find out about events and happenings at The Katherine. Keep in touch with them for the latest updates.
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.
