Catfish Dewey’s Fort Lauderdale: All-You-Can-Eat Seafood & Ribs is more than just a restaurant it’s a symbol of the city’s rich culinary heritage and warm coastal charm. If Fort Lauderdale is the Venice of America, then Catfish Dewey’s is its culinary anchor, drawing locals and visitors with a promise of endless flavors and Old Florida authenticity.
Fort Lauderdale is a destination where pristine beaches meet world-class dining, vibrant nightlife, and waterways that stretch like veins across the city’s soul.
Tourists arrive for the sunshine, but they stay for the experiences each one as diverse as the canals that define this waterfront paradise. From upscale Italian dining on Las Olas Boulevard to mermaid shows at the iconic Wreck Bar, the city thrives on blending entertainment with culinary exploration.
Yet, in the middle of it all, Catfish Dewey’s Fort Lauderdale stands as a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts craving tradition, comfort, and generosity on a plate.
Established in 1984, it continues to serve its famed all-you-can-eat catfish, crab legs, and ribs in a family-owned setting that feels both nostalgic and timeless. In many ways, dining here is not just about food it’s about tasting a piece of Fort Lauderdale’s living history.
Catfish Dewey’s – Old Florida Vibes with Endless Seafood
DIRECCIÓN: 4003 N. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Teléfono: (954) 566-5333
Why Catfish Dewey’s Defines Authentic Old Florida Dining
Catfish Dewey’s opened in 1984 and still feels like stepping back into real Old Florida. The family-owned space radiates casual charm, creating comfort and tradition. Guests return for both nostalgic vibes and consistently fresh seafood.
- All-You-Can-Eat Farm-Raised Catfish served every day, hot and golden.
- All-You-Can-Eat Crab Legs available Thursdays and Sundays, always plentiful.
- All-You-Can-Eat Shrimp Mondays and Tuesdays, cooked fresh, never frozen.
- All-You-Can-Eat Baby Back Ribs offered every Wednesday, tender and seasoned.
Every dish at Catfish Dewey’s is prepared to order, which makes each meal taste vibrant, not reheated or pre-packaged.
Why Catfish Dewey’s Remains Famous in Fort Lauderdale
Seafood experts often ask: Why has Catfish Dewey’s survived decades in a competitive culinary city? The answer is simple: quality, abundance, tradition.
- Portions are generous, and that generosity reflects Florida hospitality.
- Service feels personal, staff remembering regulars, making newcomers feel at home.
- Menu structure appeals to groups, families, and seafood specialists alike.
Tourists and locals see Catfish Dewey’s as a landmark restaurant, not just another casual eatery.
Is Catfish Dewey’s Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially for visitors craving authentic Florida dining. Many seafood houses exist in Fort Lauderdale, but Catfish Dewey’s sets itself apart.
- It preserves heritage recipes while keeping service casual.
- It offers rotating specials for variety without losing focus.
- It provides real value through all-you-can-eat, unlike many competitors.
The verdict is clear: dining at Catfish Dewey’s means tasting Fort Lauderdale tradition with plates always full, flavors consistent, and memories lasting.

Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale Worth Exploring Beyond Catfish Dewey’s
PAN’E DOLCI Italian Bakery: Classic Pastry Tradition
Ubicación: 613 E Las Olas Blvd, FL
Llamar: (954) 306-2028)
PAN’E DOLCI Italian Bakery delivers artisanal desserts and breads. Situated on Las Olas Boulevard, the bakery offers hand-crafted pastries daily.
- Authentic Italian cannoli and biscotti.
- Croissants, breads, and savory sandwiches.
- Twenty-two unique flavors of gelato.
Patrons often combine a bakery visit with a riverwalk stroll. The café atmosphere creates a European moment in Fort Lauderdale.
Temple Street Eatery – Fusion with Local Soul
Ubicación: 416 N Federal Hwy, FL
Llamar: (754) 701-0976
Temple Street Eatery stands as an Asian-American casual concept blending global street flavors. The establishment remains rooted in local culinary culture.
- Handmade dumplings and noodle soups.
- Freshly prepared bowls, salads, and sandwiches.
- Street-food influence with homestyle preparation.
For diners who experienced Catfish Dewey’s abundance, Temple Street offers diversity through fusion techniques and modern comfort food.
The Cheesecake Factory – National Institution, Local Anchor
Ubicación: 600 E Las Olas Blvd, FL
Llamar: (954) 463-1999
The Cheesecake Factory offers an enormous menu and remains a recognizable dining destination. Although national, its Las Olas Boulevard location feels locally anchored.
- Hundreds of dishes spanning multiple cuisines.
- Signature cheesecakes recognized worldwide.
- A trusted environment for groups and celebrations.
Locals and tourists treat the restaurant as a fallback when familiarity is desired. Unlike Catfish Dewey’s, it emphasizes menu diversity over specialization.
Village Café – Coastal Community Dining
Ubicación: 551 Breakers Ave, FL
Llamar: (954) 249-1149
Village Café brings a neighborly atmosphere close to the beach. Its casual design welcomes repeat customers and beachgoers seeking hearty meals.
- Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
- Friendly staff who maintain a homelike vibe.
- One block from Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Compared with Catfish Dewey’s, Village Café focuses on location convenience and day-long service flexibility.
Blueprint Cookies – Nighttime Sweet Escape
Ubicación: 917 NE 5th Ave, FL
Llamar: (954) 533-8200
Blueprint Cookies is South Florida’s first artisanal late-night cookie shop. It attracts younger crowds seeking innovative dessert options after dinner.
- Stuffed cookies with imaginative flavors.
- Chef-driven baking techniques.
- Late-night operating hours.
The concept contrasts with Catfish Dewey’s by positioning itself within the dessert niche, serving indulgence rather than meals.
Umberto’s Restaurant & Pizza – Authentic Italian Legacy
Ubicación: 3051 E Commercial Blvd, FL
Llamar: (954) 776-0258
Umberto’s Restaurant & Pizza maintains Italian heritage from Long Island, operating in Fort Lauderdale since 1965. Tradition defines its brand identity.
- Family-owned and community-rooted establishment.
- Classic pizza recipes and Italian entrées.
- A welcoming environment for casual and formal meals.
While Catfish Dewey’s emphasizes seafood heritage, Umberto’s showcases Italian-American culinary history.
Zuckerello’s – Neighborhood Italian Favorite
Ubicación: 3017 E Commercial Blvd, FL
Llamar: (954) 776-4282
Zuckerello’s emerged in 1989 as a neighborhood Italian restaurant. It remains a local staple after decades of consistency.
- Pasta and seafood classics.
- Relaxed, inviting interior atmosphere.
- A loyal customer base that spans generations.
For diners familiar with Catfish Dewey’s, Zuckerello’s demonstrates another form of Fort Lauderdale longevity.

La Dolce Vita – Freshness in Every Dish
Ubicación: 3331 NE 33rd St, FL
Llamar: (954) 565-5707
La Dolce Vita represents upscale Italian dining located in the city’s cultural district. Freshness is its foundational principle.
- Homemade pasta prepared daily.
- Fresh vegetables and seafood sourced locally.
- Breads baked in-house each day.
La Dolce Vita, like Catfish Dewey’s, prioritizes ingredient integrity. However, the delivery style is refined and formal.
IL Mulino – Recipes Through Generations
Ubicación: 1800 E Sunrise Blvd, FL
Llamar: (954) 524-1800
IL Mulino offers a more intimate atmosphere than larger Italian competitors. Its recipes date back three generations.
- A compact menu with family-inspired dishes.
- Wine selections tailored to Italian fare.
- Comfortable, private dining space.
This model parallels Catfish Dewey’s emphasis on family tradition. Both establishments treat recipes as heirlooms rather than commodities.
S3 (Sun Surf Sand) – Oceanfront Lifestyle Dining
Ubicación: 505 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, FL
Llamar: (954) 523-7873
S3 fuses steak, seafood, and sushi within an oceanfront environment. It creates a resort-style dining experience for both residents and tourists.
- Immediate proximity to the Atlantic shoreline.
- Live music enhancing weekend service.
- Brunch experiences with bottomless beverages.
Unlike Catfish Dewey’s, S3 integrates entertainment, nightlife, and culinary presentation into a singular lifestyle venue.
YOLO (You Only Live Once) – Las Olas Landmark
Ubicación: 333 E Las Olas Blvd, FL
Llamar: (954) 523-1000
YOLO has become symbolic of Las Olas Boulevard’s evolving dining culture. Its philosophy aligns with modern lifestyle branding.
- Seasonal menu changes matching local trends.
- Contemporary design and open-concept dining room.
- Integration with nightlife and community events.
Compared with Catfish Dewey’s, YOLO represents Fort Lauderdale’s shift toward cosmopolitan dining while still maintaining community ties.

From Catfish Dewey’s to Fort Lauderdale’s Top Entertainment Spots
Fort Lauderdale combines coastal dining, dynamic nightlife, and cultural hubs. Catfish Dewey’s anchors the city’s food scene, but attractions amplify the visitor’s experience.
Staying Afloat Party Boat – Floating Celebrations
The Staying Afloat Party Boat departs from Bahia Mar Hotel/Marina. It caters to birthdays, bachelorette events, and corporate retreats. Spacious decks support music, drinks, and entertainment.
- Dock: Bahia Mar Hotel/Marina, 801 Seabreeze Blvd.
- Teléfono: (708) 986-1926.
- Best suited for groups seeking customized nautical parties.
Guests often dine at Catfish Dewey’s before boarding, ensuring energy for long celebrations.
Sunset Scooter Rentals – Freedom on Two Wheels
Scooter rentals redefine mobility in Fort Lauderdale. Sunset Scooter Rentals offers 2018-model scooters with unlimited miles. Riders gain flexibility to explore hidden districts.
- DIRECCIÓN: 4060 Galt Ocean Dr.
- Teléfono: (305) 965-2526.
- Designed for independent travelers who prioritize speed and freedom.
Pairing a meal at Catfish Dewey’s with a scooter ride turns dining into adventure.
The Wreck Bar – Dining with a Twist
The Wreck Bar remains one of Fort Lauderdale’s most unusual attractions. Guests enjoy mermaid shows, signature cocktails, and themed brunches.
- DIRECCIÓN: 1140 Seabreeze Blvd.
- Teléfono: (954) 564-1000.
- Known for blending live entertainment with culinary innovation.
Many locals choose Catfish Dewey’s for dinner, then transition to Wreck Bar’s shows for late-night fun.
Pontoon Party – Waterway Escapes
Pontoon Party rentals redefine leisure on the city’s waterways. Large pontoons allow for spacious layouts, comfortable seating, and event customization.
- DIRECCIÓN: 801 Seabreeze Blvd.
- Teléfono: (833) 476-6866.
- Perfect for bachelor parties, family gatherings, or corporate escapes.
After feasting at Catfish Dewey’s, groups enjoy pontoons for hours of cruising and celebrations.
Broward Center for the Performing Arts – Cultural Showcase
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts ranks among the world’s top 10 theaters. Hosting over 700 performances annually, it defines the cultural core of Fort Lauderdale.
- DIRECCIÓN: 201 SW 5th Ave.
- Teléfono: (954) 462-0222.
- Programming includes Broadway shows, opera, and symphony concerts.
Pairing a cultural evening with dining at Catfish Dewey’s maximizes the visitor’s itinerary.

Catfish Dewey’s Fort Lauderdale – Exploring the City’s Waterways
Fort Lauderdale thrives on water culture. Dining at Catfish Dewey’s enhances this identity, linking Old Florida food with modern aquatic exploration.
Ecoboats – Sustainable Exploration
Ecoboats redefine leisure on the water. Silent and eco-friendly, Duffy boats create emission-free cruises through scenic canals.
- DIRECCIÓN: 2525 Marina Bay Dr W.
- Teléfono: (954) 500-0326.
- Ideal for sustainable travelers demanding silent efficiency and comfort.
Many visitors stop at Catfish Dewey’s first, then enjoy silent boat rides without sacrificing tradition or indulgence.
Riverfront Gondola Tours – Romantic Journeys
Riverfront Gondola Tours bring European-style charm to Florida. Guests experience canals from private gondola boats, creating unforgettable romantic escapes.
- Ubicación: 1200 E Las Olas Blvd.
- Private, intimate, and guided by knowledgeable hosts.
Couples often end their day with generous servings at Catfish Dewey’s. It balances romance with hearty seafood portions.
Intimate Waterway Tours – Guided Discovery
Intimate Waterway Tours reveal why Fort Lauderdale is called the Venice of America. Guided rides showcase architecture, history, and canal life.
- DIRECCIÓN: 2 S New River Dr W.
- Teléfono: (954) 488-4407.
- Suited for groups seeking knowledge with scenic comfort.
Guests combine guided tours with Catfish Dewey’s dining, ensuring cultural depth and culinary tradition within one itinerary.

Why Dining and Entertainment Intersect in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale isn’t only beaches. It’s food plus nightlife, dining plus adventure. Catfish Dewey’s plays a pivotal role, feeding energy into every experience. Whether you cruise, ride, or watch performances, meals here anchor the journey.
Conclusion – Catfish Dewey’s Fort Lauderdale and the City’s Essence
Catfish Dewey’s Fort Lauderdale reflects more than a restaurant. It symbolizes heritage, flavor, and the community’s enduring connection to authentic seafood traditions. Guests arrive for all-you-can-eat experiences but stay for the atmosphere that radiates Old Florida comfort. The restaurant stands as a landmark that anchors Fort Lauderdale’s broader cultural identity.
Yet, the story of the city doesn’t end at Catfish Dewey’s. Fort Lauderdale unfolds through Italian bakeries, innovative cafés, and waterfront dining institutions that enrich the culinary landscape.
Each venue contributes to a mosaic where heritage, diversity, and modern influences coexist seamlessly. The city thrives on contrasts, and visitors witness that balance at every turn.
Beyond food, Fort Lauderdale thrives as a playground for explorers. Gondola tours glide through intricate canals, scooters carve paths along bustling streets, and pontoons deliver waterborne celebrations.
Each adventure deepens the connection between traveler and city. After experiencing such activities, guests recognize Fort Lauderdale’s ability to merge recreation with authenticity.
Ultimately, Catfish Dewey’s Fort Lauderdale acts as a gateway to a city defined by its duality: rooted in tradition yet constantly evolving. Visitors leave with both satisfied appetites and lasting impressions of a destination where culture, cuisine, and adventure harmonize.
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