Lauderdale by the Sea, Florida is a fairly small city that only encompasses 8.5 square miles. However, given its proximity to the Everglades and the Atlantic Ocean, the town is both a popular winter getaway spot and a desired place for summertime beach front vacations. In fact; tourism is the main industry in the town and it has been for all of its nearly 60-year history. With year round tourist coming and going, there is no shortage of restaurants in Lauderdale by the Sea.
101 Ocean is located on the waterfront and features an indoor dining area with a waterfall and giant fish tank. The inside of the casual restaurant is geared toward family dining, with a menu that includes everything from seafood to pizza. All menu options are available for under $30 in 2011. 101 Ocean also offers an extensive wine menu that is priced from $23 to $99 per bottle. An outside dining section offers waterfront views and a bar. The bar is busy during happy hour, which occurs every day between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. All drinks are half-priced during this time.
The Aruba Beach Café is a Caribbean-themed restaurant that sits on the ocean front. The menu offers both hot and cold appetizers. Seafood is featured for the entrées, but several traditional American options are also available, including steaks and hamburgers. For entertainment, there is live music and dancing offered nightly. Happy hour goes from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Sunday from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. The Aruba Beach Café also offers a complimentary Pig Roast every Friday during happy hour.
The Sea Watch on the Ocean is a fine dining option that sits high on a bluff overlooking the ocean. This restaurant offers lunch and dinner, along with a very popular early bird menu. All dinner entrees are priced under $32, as of 2011, and the extensive wine list is fairly priced. The Sea Watch offers a wide array of special events; listed on the venue’s website are activities that may occur during your visit.
Pa ’DeGennaro’s, nicknamed Pa D’s, is an Italian restaurant that offers two very different dining experiences for both casual and formal patrons. The fine dining area has elegant oak décor in the main dining room and bar. The gourmet meals and extensive wine list provide for a 4-star dining experience. Main entrees range from $16 to $35, as of 2011. The location also has a casual Pizzeria and Grille that serves salads, subs, pizza and pasta. Entertainment is offered on Friday and Saturday nights. Pa 'DeGennaro’s accommodates private parties for groups up to 150 people.
