Where the yacht industry gathers and where the Troyers actually eat
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show remains the largest in-water yacht event in the world. Whether you arrive by yacht, private aviation, or simply secured a room at Pier Sixty-Six, the Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, or Conrad, the question is the same every year: after a long day on the docks, where do you actually want to sit down and eat?
After more than two decades of walking these same docks, first as a young broker and now as the principal of Troyer Yachts, my wife Beth and I have refined a short, reliable list. These are not sponsored recommendations. They are the places we return to month after month because the food, the service, and the location consistently deliver when the show is in full swing.
Best Waterfront Dining Near the Show
Sotogrande – Pier Sixty-Six Resort
Mediterranean coastal, marina-front, always reliable
Sotogrande sits directly on the primary axis of FLIBS at Pier Sixty-Six. Inspired by the old culinary trade routes between Southern Spain and the Eastern Mediterranean, it specializes in shareable plates, pristine seafood, and well-made cocktails with unobstructed marina views.
We were there again last Thursday, October 22, after a full day of show traffic. It never disappoints. Standouts from that night:
- Tzatziki (compressed cucumber, yogurt, mint)
- Shishito peppers with tahini velouté, spicy honey, and jamón crumble
- Watermelon salad with feta
- Lamb kofte
- Roasted cauliflower with fennel, amba, and ras el hanout
- Dubai tart (chocolate, pistachio kadaif, crème anglaise)
Daily Harbour Hour is useful for a lighter interlude between show hours and dinner. Reserve on OpenTable. sotogranderestaurant.com
Ocean Prime – Las Olas Marina
Prime steaks, seafood, and the Intracoastal as backdrop
Ocean Prime occupies a two-story waterfront footprint right on the Intracoastal at Las Olas Marina. Outdoor terraces on both levels make it one of the most flexible high-end options during the show. The energy is polished without being stiff, which makes it ideal for a client lunch, a quiet business dinner, or a sunset drink after the docks close.
Our current favorites:
- Caviar deviled eggs with black truffle and chives (brunch)
- Short-rib surf & turf with lobster, Gouda potato cake, poached egg, and hollandaise
- Shellfish “Cobb” salad
- Excellent sushi at lunch
- Classic filet or ribeye when the mood is steak; the fish preparations are equally strong
An outdoor table overlooking the marina is ideal on a clear evening. When humidity rises, the interior dining rooms hold up well. Book via OpenTable. ocean-prime.com
Best Oceanfront Dining
Takato at the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach: Best for Japanese-Korean
Takato sits oceanfront at the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach and blends refined Japanese technique with Korean influences. The menu covers artisanal sushi, robata, A5 wagyu and thoughtful shared plates. The outdoor seating is particularly pleasant in late October and early November, while the room itself can run energetic.
Beth and I have yet to leave disappointed. The menu rewards exploration, so check the current offerings at takatorestaurant.com before you go.
Best Quiet Escape From the Crowds
Osteria Acqua e Farina: Best for Italian
When the waterfront restaurants feel saturated, we head south on Federal Highway to this intimate, family-run osteria. Chef Attilio Reale cooks with traditional restraint: scratch-made regional pastas, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and classic Italian comfort without the show-floor volume.
It is the antidote to the busier marina strips and consistently delivers genuine hospitality. Details at osteriaacquaefarina.com.
Additional Reliable Options
If your first choice is booked, these are also dependable during the show:
- Daniel’s: a classic steakhouse.
- Maass at the Four Seasons: refined and convenient if you are staying there.
- 15th Street Fisheries: a long-time local waterfront standby.
- Lobster Bar Sea Grill: consistent seafood.
- Calusso: serious cooking for when the occasion calls for it.
FLIBS is ultimately about boats, relationships, and the people who make this industry work. The right meal at the end of a long day is part of that experience. Beth and I will be on the docks throughout the show representing clients on both the buy and sell side … new construction, brokerage, and charter. If you want to trade notes on a yacht, a shipyard, or simply the best place for a quiet coffee or cappuccino between appointments, reach out to the team at Troyer Yachts.
We look forward to seeing you on the water. – Andrew Troyer
For More Information about FLIBS 2026
Contact a TROYER YACHTS TEAM MEMBER Today
FORT LAUDERDALE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2026 – TICKETS
October 28 – November 1, 2026
Luxury Yacht Sales – Charter – Brokerage – New Construction
Andrew Troyer, Owner, Consultant, Broker
Phone: (954) 732-0339
Email: info@troyeryachts.com
Team Members
Featured Listings
