Let’s be honest—most burgers are just ground beef and a bun. But the truly great ones? They’re worth rearranging your entire Tuesday night for. Our updated list features everything from sizzling newcomers to legendary joints where we’ve been devouring patties for decades. Even if you think you can grill a better burger in your backyard, trust us: these Fort Lauderdale spots will make you reconsider.
Shake Shack Ft. Lauderdale
$ | (754) 216-4398 | WEBSITE
Shake Shack is the coolest burger joint in Fort Lauderdale. It has spacious, clean dining areas as well as an entire atmosphere dedicated to being kid-friendly and welcoming. Most importantly, their burgers—particularly the fantastic, flavorful patties—are great. Pair your cheese fries or chicken bites with a thick milkshake or crispy fries, and in the warmer months, trade your view of the bright, cheerful interior for fresh air on their patio.
BRGR STOP
$$ | (954) 533-8621 | WEBSITE
When there’s a free parking lot involved in Fort Lauderdale, stress levels plummet—it’s a scientific fact, we’re pretty sure. And the large lot at this always-funky burger joint near the beach is a welcome addition to the serious burgers you’ll eat here, like juicy bourbon cowboy burgers and crispy garlic fries. Loaded with creative milkshakes and wild flavors, the whole funky schtick provides enough chill vibes as is appropriate for after the beach.
And when the meal’s over, there’s a happy hour with specials that add extra value.
Five Guys
$ | (754) 300-3414 | WEBSITE
This Fort Lauderdale burger joint’s bacon cheeseburger is probably the most consistently satisfying fast-casual meal in town. You’ll need to be ready for a slightly higher price tag, but the quality is worth it. There’s the clean open kitchen concept, ample parking, friendly team atmosphere, and fresh fries served in those iconic brown paper bags.
Oh yeah, and the staff: courteous and efficient are the mainstays along with a kid-friendly accessibility that works for everyone (both literally and figuratively).
Black Rock Bar & Grill – Fort Lauderdale
$$ | (954) 368-2525 | WEBSITE
Black Rock Bar & Grill has the kind of energy where you might end up sharing steak-cooking tips with the couple at the next table, and suddenly you’re comparing notes on the perfect French onion soup. Not to mention that the dining room is bursting with great interactive dining, including sizzling filets cooked right at your table. And if the full dinner you had planned turns into a quick happy hour bite, that works, too.
Join the groups of regulars who had the same idea, and grab a glass of wine or some swordfish.
Vegan Junkie
$ | (786) 702-1449 | WEBSITE
This vibrant little joint in Fort Lauderdale is the best spot in town for plant-based comfort food. And their burger menu is a fantastic showcase, even if you only split an order of loaded fries and a round of spicy fried chickn. You won’t find greasy beef patties or processed cheese here.
Instead, expect things like the Vegan Junkie Burger with its homemade patty and excellent taste, the Plant Based Queen sandwich with its standout quality, and our favorite dish, a perfectly balanced toona salad with fresh, natural ingredients. The tres leches dessert rounds out the experience with big portions and skilled cooking.
The friendly staff ensures quick service whether you’re dining in or ordering delivery, making every visit memorable with top-tier customer service and a passion for vegan cuisine.
Bohemian Latin Grill
$ | (954) 809-5878 | WEBSITE
This Fort Lauderdale counter service spot serves things like top-rated chicken empanadas, flavorful tacos like asado, pork, and mahi mahi, and superb nachos. Pair any of those with a margarita during Taco Tuesday, or try the perfectly cooked, juicy steak in the power bowl. It’s all done in a small, cozy space complete with a lively atmosphere, quick and friendly service, and highly appreciated hot sauce.
If all of that makes this place sound popular, that’s because it is—show up early to avoid a wait.
Freddie’s Anchor Sports Grill
$ | (954) 462-7665 | WEBSITE
We all have personal struggles. Like trying to find a parking spot downtown, deciding which streaming service to cancel, or whether to order another round. If crowded sports bars are yours, game day can be frustrating, so keep Freddie’s Anchor Sports Grill in your rotation. It’s a casual dive bar in Fort Lauderdale that offers affordable drinks and a nice selection of beers on draft, with plenty of space where you don’t feel packed in.
Grab a solid red beans and rice with andouille sausage made by the gentleman in the kitchen, or just enjoy the welcoming atmosphere with pleasant staff. Order another pint and catch some Premier League Football on the screens, or shoot some pool at one of the many tables if you need a break from the action.
BurgerFi
$ | (954) 835-5514 | WEBSITE
This lively Fort Lauderdale burger joint satisfies many cravings—grab a group for customizable burgers and crispy fries, order the veggie burger wrapped in lettuce for a lighter option, or indulge solo with those addictive Cajun fries made from real potatoes. The excellent menu features fresh, well-prepared ingredients, and the haystack onions are wonderfully crispy (add them to everything so you don’t miss out). A heads-up that during peak hours, the line can get pretty long.
Even on quieter evenings, the place stays busy, but you’ll have a better chance at a table near the friendly, attentive staff like Susan.
Hott Leggz
$$ | (954) 771-5151 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving a proper burger in Fort Lauderdale but want something truly special, Hott Leggz is the spot to hit. It’s a casual joint that still delivers big flavor, and is perfect for fight night or a family dinner—both situations that could benefit from their Chicago beef sandwich and a cold beer. To be clear, don’t leave here without trying that sandwich.
And sure, you’re in Florida and not Chicago, but Hott Leggz—with its sports-bar vibe, TVs everywhere, and just-right music volume—feels pretty close to the ultimate game-day destination.
Big C’s Downtown Pizzeria
$ | (954) 463-4801 | WEBSITE
This pizzeria is tucked away in Fort Lauderdale’s downtown, and the scent of garlic, bubbling cheese, and classic Italian tunes set the scene. There’s often a line during weekend dinners, especially since the place attracts big groups and regulars. Show up before 6pm to cut down on waiting, and trust that it’s worth it for dishes like their incredible buffalo pizza and stuffed shells. Grab a crisp house salad while you’re at it.
Hot Diggity Dogs & More
$ | (954) 981-7827 | WEBSITE
Even though this cash-only, old-school spot in Fort Lauderdale has a drive-thru option for quick bites, we’re here for the classic Chicago Style Dog that everyone keeps talking about. That includes a perfectly steamed poppy seed bun, a snappy all-beef frank, and a generous pile of toppings crispier than a fresh dollar bill from the register. But the real draw is their unmatched service, with staff showing such kindness and charm that you leave with a genuinely good feeling.
Do it if only for said hot dog, as well as the rare generosity that actually feels authentic. (Finally.)