When it comes to romantic seafood restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, few match the charm and waterfront elegance of Boatyard. Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, this beloved destination offers more than just a menu—it sets the scene for connection, indulgence, and unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re celebrating a new spark, a lasting love, or just looking to escape into a serene coastal evening, Boatyard has crafted the perfect setting for date night. From the rhythmic lapping of the tide to candlelit tables beneath swaying palms, every detail is designed to romance the senses.
Waterfront Romance in the Heart of Fort Lauderdale
Boatyard isn’t just near the water—it lives and breathes it. Located in the Yachting Capital of the World, this culinary gem invites couples to dine dockside, toast under the stars, and watch the boats drift by with Intracoastal elegance.
As day slips into evening, the golden-hour glow reflects off the water, setting the mood before the first sip of wine. Inside, soft lighting and a nautical-chic aesthetic create an atmosphere that’s both elevated and approachable. Prefer alfresco? A cozy corner beneath the gumbo limbo tree offers lush greenery and open air for those who want to linger longer.
Few romantic seafood restaurants can claim 120 feet of dockage or a fire pit lounge, but Boatyard can, and does.
Seafood Made for Sharing (and Stealing Bites From)
Romantic dining is all about shared experiences, and nothing sets the tone quite like Boatyard’s seafood-forward plates. For a light and elegant start to your evening, try the East Coast Oysters or the signature Tuna Tacos with mango-jicama relish and sweet soy glaze.
Warm starters like the Crisp Calamari with Calabrian chili and lemon tomato aioli add a comforting, flavorful bite to your shared spread. Or elevate the moment with snow crab claws, served chilled with lime and Tajín aioli—briny, vibrant, and made to be savored together.
For entrées, Boatyard’s coastal creations offer romance in every bite. The Pan-Roasted Scottish Salmon with almond chermoula and pomegranate seeds or the Mahi-Mahi with a wood-fired char is a standout, pairing beautifully with Boatyard’s signature sides.
Each dish is crafted with locally sourced ingredients and plated with care, turning every bite into a moment.
Cocktails and Conversations
At Boatyard, cocktails aren’t just beverages; they’re part of the romance. Set the tone with a Caviar-Tini, served with caviar-stuffed olives and absinthe perfume spray. It’s refined, unexpected, and guaranteed to spark conversation. If you’re celebrating something special (or someone special), the Golden Hour Old Fashioned arrives enveloped in smoke, garnished with gold leaf ice, and built to impress.
Looking for something a bit lighter? Try the Nauti-Rita, a strawberry-laced tequila cocktail with a strawberry sea salt foam, or the breezy Island Hopper with aged rum, coconut water, and pineapple.
And for those opting for a zero-proof evening, Boatyard’s Free-Spirited cocktails like the Knot Nauti and Pier Pressure offer sophistication without the buzz.
A Sweet Finale to the Evening
No romantic dinner is complete without dessert. At Boatyard, the finale is just as artful as the opening act. Share the elegant Key Lime Baked Alaska, layered with graham crust, coconut crema, and fresh berries. Or opt for seasonal favorites like the Chef’s Featured Crème Brûlée with fresh berries.
Cap the evening with a glass of Cuvee Auslese dessert wine from Kracher. Its delicate sweetness makes it the perfect complement to your final course. Or, raise a toast with a celebratory flute of champagne to end the night in style.
Dock & Dine: Effortless Elegance by the Water
There’s something inherently cinematic about arriving by boat for your date, and Boatyard offers the rare chance to do just that. With limited dockage available and a seamless dock-and-dine experience, you can pull up to dinner in true Fort Lauderdale style.
It’s a luxury few romantic seafood restaurants can offer, and it turns any dinner into an occasion. Even if you’re arriving by car, the vibe remains effortlessly nautical. Just being surrounded by the marina, with boats bobbing gently and sails catching the breeze, adds a layer of escapism that feels like a vacation without leaving the city.
A Date for Every Love Story
Boatyard’s ambiance is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for any chapter of your love story. Planning a first date? The bustling bar scene and signature cocktails offer a lively yet refined setting to spark something new. Celebrating an anniversary or popping the big question? Reserve a waterfront table at sunset and let the backdrop do the work.
Whether you’re sailing in or simply walking hand in hand toward a table lit by the last rays of the sun, Boatyard invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and celebrate love in all its forms.
Ready to plan your perfect waterfront date? Make a reservation at Boatyard and set sail on an evening of effortless romance and coastal charm.
