For this month’s best restaurant openings, we have a familiar temple to steak — maybe you’ve already been to Fogo de Chão, but now it’s closer than ever to home — plus a pizza spot governed by an ultra-strong, free-from menu and a total revamp of a Fort Lauderdale stalwart. And if you’re looking for a date night spot — and your date likes their views expansive — we’ve got the spot. Go open up a Resy tab and get booking.
Level 6 by Amal
Coconut Grove
You’re here because: For breathtaking views over Biscayne Bay, there may be nowhere better than this new 4,000-square-foot rooftop lounge and restaurant. Perched atop the already critically acclaimed Amal, Level 6 features a colorful, three-dimensional mural from Ben Medansky in addition to the spectacular panorama.
You’re dining on: A menu of modern Spanish creations including both tapas and larger plates perfect for sharing. Tuna tartare is paired with avocado and truffle, while seafood paella features Argentinian shrimp, langoustine and clams. Pair your choices with one of the vibrant house cocktails or a glass of sparkling to make any night out feel like a special occasion.
Zazzy’s
Wynwood
You’re here because: Pizza is your jam, but it can be hard to find a spot that suits all of the various dietary restrictions and preferences in your friend group. Luckily, this spot ticks all the boxes, with an array of gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free options alongside all of the classics.
You’re dining on: Pizzas ranging from classic cheese to “The Angry Butcher,” with soppressata, pepperoni, meatballs and crumbled sausage all piled atop a one-of-a-kind hybrid dough combining the best of New York and Neapolitan styles. Since chef James Whelen’s own diagnosis with gluten intolerance, he has lent particular attention to the free-from menu, which includes a great gluten-free crust as well as plant-based choices like vegan mozz or meatless meatballs.
La Romanita Restaurant and Lounge
Hialeah
You’re here because: You’re curious to discover a marriage of Cuban and Italian flavors, and that’s exactly what’s on the menu at this new spot adjacent to Amelia Earhart Park, complete with an outdoor patio, full bar and open kitchen.
You’re dining on: Culinary creations from Executive Chef Rey Mendez. A Havana native, Mendez infuses his Italian offerings with the flavors of his childhood, with options like a Cuban Caesar with crispy sardines or swordfish with buttered sofrito. House-made pastas include everything from amatriciana to carbonara to pescatore, and homemade pizza dough is the base for toppings ranging from a classic margarita to “La Lechona,” with shredded pork and a secret cheese blend. Opt for one of over 80 different wines or grower Champagnes to accompany your meal — and the evenings of live music to follow.
Timpano Las Olas
Fort Lauderdale
You’re here because: This tried-and-true Fort Lauderdale staple has finally reopened following a complete re-imagination care of the Tavistock Restaurant Collection. A sophisticated, modern menu nevertheless rooted in tradition welcomes diners to the heritage restaurant, and the dining room offers nods to South Florida’s iconic Art Deco vibe, favoring pink, green and gold accents and Timpano’s peacock mascot.
You’re dining on: A menu imagined by chef Michael Ferraro, VP of food and beverage of Tavistock Restaurant Collection, and executed by Omar Lorenzana, which perfectly walks the line between comfort food nostalgia and upscale glam. Truffle tots are topped with caviar and crème fraiche, and a selection of prime meets will surely satisfy any carnivore. House-made pasta may be served with rustic Italian sausage and rapini or pesto, or opt for a luscious uni alfredo, prepared tableside. Tableside service features, too, in a bomboloni experience that will prove to be unmissable for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Fogo de Chão
Fort Lauderdale
You’re here because: You’re already a fan of this experiential Brazilian spot from one of its four other Florida locations, so you’re thrilled to find that not only has it expanded to Fort Lauderdale, but the newest outpost has followed in the footsteps of the other restaurants in the chain in supporting Feeding South Florida, a local nonprofit dedicated to ending hunger in the Greater Miami area and beyond.
You’re dining on: Meat, meat and more meat. The expansive, 226-seat dining room’s focal point is its open-air charcoal grill, where gaucho chefs exercise the culinary art of churrasco. Choose from among a host of meaty options like premium filet mignon, bone-in ribeye, lamb chops or fraldinha, a marbled bottom sirloin with a rich, robust flavor. The extensive market table completes the offering with choices inspired by produce from Brazil and beyond. This new location also showcases meat lockers, used for in-house dry aging. Enjoy your meal indoors or out on the large, covered patio.
201 E. Las Olas Blvd, Suite 100, Fort Lauderdale, FL
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