There’s just something magical about the right combination of good food and great music. A flavorful bite tastes better when it’s accompanied by live jazz, a Latin beat, or the smooth strum of an acoustic guitar. In a vibrant city like Fort Lauderdale—where the sun meets the sea and the nightlife pulses with energy—finding a restaurant with music in Fort Lauderdale can turn a regular dinner into a full-on experience.

Whether you're looking for a romantic evening under the stars, a high-energy weekend celebration, or just a chill night with cocktails and background tunes, Fort Lauderdale’s food and music scene delivers. Let’s explore some of the top places where you can enjoy delicious cuisine with a soundtrack that sets the mood just right.

Why Dining with Live Music Hits Different

Eating out is about more than satisfying hunger—it’s about connection, ambiance, and sometimes even a little bit of escapism. A restaurant with music in Fort Lauderdale doesn’t just serve meals—it sets the tone for your evening. The rhythm of a live band or the soulful notes of a saxophone can elevate your experience, making the flavors pop just a little more and the conversations flow a little easier.

Fort Lauderdale is uniquely positioned to offer these kinds of experiences. With its tropical setting, strong cultural influences, and an eclectic mix of locals and tourists, the city boasts a culinary scene that embraces the arts in every form—including live performance.

Top Restaurants with Live Music in Fort Lauderdale

Here are a few standout venues where food and music come together in perfect harmony:

1. The Wilder

Located just off Las Olas, The Wilder is part cocktail bar, part restaurant, and entirely a vibe. Known for its stylish interior—think art deco meets boho glam—this spot hosts live music and DJs throughout the week. From jazzy background music to upbeat lounge sets, The Wilder sets the tone for a sultry, sophisticated evening. Their menu features upscale small plates like truffle fries, ceviche, and craft cocktails that are almost too pretty to drink.

2. Rhythm & Vine

For a more laid-back atmosphere, Rhythm & Vine offers an outdoor garden-style venue that’s perfect for groups or casual hangouts. With a rotating lineup of live bands, local DJs, and pop-up food trucks, this is not your traditional restaurant—but it’s absolutely a great restaurant with music in Fort Lauderdale. Grab a picnic table, sip on a craft beer or frozen cocktail, and let the music take you into the night.

3. Blue Jean Blues

Located in the heart of the Flagler Village Arts District, Blue Jean Blues is all about live music—especially jazz, blues, and soul. The setting is intimate and warm, like a classic jazz club, and the menu leans American bistro with items like flatbreads, burgers, and crab cakes. They offer live music seven nights a week, making it a go-to spot for anyone craving a cozy, musical evening.

4. YOT Bar & Kitchen

Waterfront dining with a beat? Yes, please. YOT Bar & Kitchen, tucked into the Lauderdale Marine Center, offers a stunning view of the marina along with a rotating schedule of live performances. From acoustic duos to lively bands, there’s often something playing in the background as you enjoy seafood-forward dishes and inventive cocktails. If you’re looking for a restaurant with music in Fort Lauderdale that feels like a mini vacation, YOT delivers that breezy coastal charm.

5. Casablanca Café

This beachfront gem is one of Fort Lauderdale’s oldest and most beloved restaurants. Casablanca Café combines old-world Mediterranean charm with modern Floridian flavors—and often live music in the evenings. The softly lit patio, ocean breeze, and smooth piano or vocal performances make it one of the most romantic dinner spots in the city. Don’t miss the Moroccan-spiced lamb chops or their seafood paella.

6. Shooters Waterfront

A Fort Lauderdale staple, Shooters Waterfront isn’t just about stunning Intracoastal views—it’s also one of the best spots to catch live music during brunch and weekend evenings. The expansive outdoor patio features local performers playing everything from acoustic sets to reggae and pop covers. Their menu features a mix of land and sea favorites, and the tropical cocktails perfectly complement the laid-back, music-filled vibe.

7. B Ocean’s Wreck Bar – Mermaid Show & Music

Looking for something truly unique? Check out the Wreck Bar inside the B Ocean Resort, where you can dine while watching an underwater mermaid performance through giant porthole windows. While not your traditional "restaurant with music," the experience includes background music and theatrical storytelling that adds a surreal twist to your meal. It’s whimsical, fun, and totally one-of-a-kind.

Music for Every Mood

One of the great things about Fort Lauderdale is the sheer variety of musical styles you’ll find when dining out. Whether you're into jazz, Latin, reggae, indie rock, or something smooth and acoustic, there’s a restaurant that matches your taste in both food and sound.

• Date night vibes? Casablanca Café or The Wilder bring soft, romantic sounds to an elegant setting.
• Lively group energy? Shooters, Rhythm & Vine, and YOT are perfect for a fun night out with friends.
• Arts and culture lovers? Blue Jean Blues offers live performances that celebrate musicianship and soul.

Final Notes

When you’re planning a night out and you want more than just a great plate of food, choosing a restaurant with music in Fort Lauderdale adds an extra layer of excitement and ambiance. It transforms dinner into an experience—where every bite and every beat come together to create memories.

So whether you’re toasting to something special, entertaining guests from out of town, or just looking to spice up your regular dinner routine, don’t underestimate the power of a great playlist—or better yet, a live performance.

Fort Lauderdale is a city that sings, and if you listen closely, you’ll find the perfect spot to dine in tune with the rhythm of paradise.