Tamarindo Harbor Italian Grill & Bar: A Taste of Italy with a Latin Twist In Florida’s Dining Scene
Hello Flavor Chasers,
Today, we’re taking a trip to the southeast coast to Fort Lauderdale, Florida! Our stop is right to Tamarindo Harbor Italian Grill & Bar, which is more than just a dining spot—it's an experience. With a menu that seamlessly blends Italian classics with Latin-inspired flavors, this restaurant offers a unique take on traditional cuisine while maintaining an inviting and lively atmosphere.
The Tamarindo Experience
Walking into Tamarindo Harbor Italian Grill & Bar feels like stepping into a lively fusion of Italian elegance and Latin warmth. The restaurant’s rustic décor, soft lighting, and inviting ambiance set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re here for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a celebratory night out, the atmosphere adapts effortlessly to the occasion.
It’s said that the owner, Yecson, is known for personally checking in with diners, ensuring that every visit is memorable. While we did not get the chance to meet Yecson, one of our highlights was experiencing the exceptional service. The staff’s genuine hospitality stands out; guests are greeted with warm smiles and attentive service, making you feel like part of the Tamarindo family. We had the pleasure of being served by Jackson, along with standout team members like Joseph and Kenneth. They went above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcomed and attended to.
There’s also live music, which is something we didn’t get a chance to experience, but we can only imagine the vibe of the entertainment.
Beyond the atmosphere, the food itself is an experience. Each dish is crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, blending traditional Italian flavors with Latin-inspired twists. Whether you’re savoring the Eggplant Tower, indulging in Crab Meat Ravioli, or enjoying a Churrasco Steak with Chimichurri, every bite tells a story of passion and culinary craftsmanship.
A Feast for the Table
On a recent girls’ trip with friends to Fort Lauderdale, one of the ladies recommended Tamarindo. This was our first place to visit for dinner, and it would also be everyone’s first time trying out this restaurant. Tamarindo turned out to be the dining highlight of the entire getaway.
We started the evening with a toast—because what’s a girls’ night without cocktails? Tamarindo’s mixology game is imposing. The fruit-forward Sangria was refreshingly balanced, while the martini lineup brought its unique flair. The Chocolate Martini was pure dessert in a glass, the Espresso Martini packed a smooth jolt of energy, and the Lychee Martini offered a floral, subtly sweet surprise. Each sip felt deliberate and celebratory—designed to elevate the moment.
As for the food? Every dish felt like part of a thoughtfully curated experience. The Calamari arrived first, perfectly crisp and golden, practically melting in each bite. The house-made Crab Ravioli was pure buttery bliss—delicate pasta pockets filled with rich seafood flavor that lingered beautifully. A velvety, homemade Potato Soup followed, the kind of comforting dish that felt like a warm embrace.
The Frutti di Mare celebrated fresh, vibrant seafood with every bite. The Churrasco Skirt Steak delivered smoky, tender perfection, grilled to bold, soulful flavors. And the Tamarindo Special? A powerhouse plate of grilled chicken, steak, and shrimp, paired with fries and a fresh house salad—it lived up to its name and then some.
One memorable detail? The homemade spicy sauce is almost like a freshly made giardiniera, provided for the table. Being from Chicago, everyone knows that giardiniera is a staple topping on most foods, such as Italian Beef, hot dogs, Polish sandwiches, etc. BUT we have NEVER had giardiniera this good! You could just taste and feel the freshness of the vegetables, the seasoning, and the olive oil. Just a dab of it transformed each dish, adding a fiery, flavor-packed kick that elevated the entire meal.
We ended up being blessed by our friend’s amazing husband with dinner AND DESSERT! At that point, we couldn’t even think straight; we were stuffed beyond imagination. We had such a great time and enjoyed the food so much that we were all trying to muster up the energy to get ready to go but we were faced with an important decision: which desserts to get?! We settled on the Chocolate Volcano Cake and the lemon cake. Both desserts delivered the perfect one-two punch: decadent, rich indulgence met with zesty, refreshing brightness.
It was the kind of meal that left us talking about it long after the plates were cleared, and honestly, for the rest of the trip—a flavorful, joy-filled journey from cocktails to cake. Tamarindo set the tone and expectations for other restaurants during the remainder of our journey. It’s sad to have to report that the different restaurants we dined at did not even come close to Tamarindo’s food or service.
The Menu: Italian Meets Latin Flair
Tamarindo Harbor prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish bursts with flavor. Some standout menu items include:
Eggplant Parmigiana with Pasta & Marinara Sauce – A classic Italian favorite, executed with perfection.
Churrasco Steak with Chimichurri Sauce – A Latin-inspired dish that delivers bold, herbaceous flavors.
Crab Meat Ravioli – Rich, creamy, and indulgent, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Harbor Thai Salad – A refreshing fusion of Thai flavors with a Latin twist.
Foodie Fun
Why did the ravioli start salsa dancing?
We’re not spilling the sauce just yet...
Make sure you’re subscribed to our Newsletter for the reveal
What Restaurant Goers are saying about Tamarindo Harbor
Guests consistently rave about the exceptional service and warm hospitality, often calling out staff members like Joseph, Jackson, Kenneth, and Sergio for going above and beyond. Many describe the ambiance as elegant yet cozy, with live music on weekends adding a special touch to the dining experience.
The food? It’s a standout. Diners continue to highlight dishes like the Eggplant Tower, Crab Ravioli, Churrasco Steak, and Agnolotti di Pera (a pear-stuffed ravioli with prosciutto and truffle sauce) as must-tries. The pink sauce and homemade pastas also get frequent praise for their rich, vibrant flavors.
One reviewer even said the restaurant “deserves a Michelin review” for its beautifully plated dishes and top-tier service. Others call it a “hidden gem” and say it’s the best meal they had during their trip to Fort Lauderdale, which we fully support!
There are a few mixed reviews, mostly around timing or individual preferences, but the overwhelming consensus is that Tamarindo delivers a memorable, flavorful, and welcoming experience.
Tamarindo Harbor Italian Grill & Bar is earning high praise across the board. On Google, it holds an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating based on over 300 reviews. On Tripadvisor, it’s rated 4.7 out of 5, with guests frequently highlighting the exceptional service, flavorful dishes, and warm ambiance.
It’s safe to say this spot isn’t just a local favorite—it’s a rising star in Fort Lauderdale, Florida's dining scene.
Why We Love Tamarindo
To summarize everything, we love Tamarindo Harbor Italian Grill & Bar because it’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a heartfelt experience rooted in family, flavor, and hospitality. It’s been a while since we’ve experienced a restaurant like this.
The ambiance is warm and vibrant, with touches of rustic charm and live music that fills the space with energy on weekend nights. The staff—many of whom are part of the founding family—go out of their way to make every guest feel like they belong.
The food tells a story, too. Tamarindo blends Italian culinary tradition with Latin soul, offering comforting dishes that beautifully reflect the family’s cultural roots. It’s the kind of place where celebrations feel natural, where the pink sauce is legendary, and where even a casual dinner becomes a memory. Whether you’re a Fort Lauderdale local or just passing through, Tamarindo makes you feel like you’ve found your spot.
Best Times to Visit
Of course, the best times to visit will all depend on the type of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a rundown of what that looks like:
For a lively, social vibe:
Head over on Friday or Saturday evenings when the restaurant features live music. The energy is vibrant, the cocktails are flowing, and the ambiance is perfect for a celebratory night out—especially if you're with a group like your girls’ trip crew.
For a relaxed, intimate meal:
Weekday evenings (Monday through Thursday) are quieter, making it ideal if you want to savor your meal and conversation without the weekend buzz.
For great deals:
Their daily Happy Hour runs from 2 PM to 6 PM, offering 2-for-1 mojitos and margaritas—a perfect excuse for a late lunch or early dinner with a cocktail in hand.
For brunch or lunch:
They open at 11 AM daily, so if you're in the mood for a midday bite, it's a great spot to enjoy a slower-paced meal with top-tier service.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're craving authentic Italian dishes, exploring Latin-inspired flavors, or simply looking for a great spot to unwind, Tamarindo Harbor Italian Grill & Bar delivers on all fronts. With its cozy ambiance, flavorful menu, and top-tier service, it's a hidden gem worth discovering in Fort Lauderdale.
How does Chasing Flavors with E&J rate the taste at Tamarindo’s Harbor?
10 out of 10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plan Your Visit to Tamarindo
Location:
Tamarindo Harbor Italian Grill & Bar
1025 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Located in the Gateway Shoppes, just minutes from Las Olas Boulevard and the beach.
Hours:
Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM
Fridays & Saturdays open until 11 PM
Happy Hour:
Every day from 2 PM to 6 PM
Enjoy 2-for-1 mojitos and margaritas—perfect for a pre-dinner toast.
Parking:
Free parking is available in the Gateway Shoppes lot.
Reservations:
Recommended for weekends and larger parties. Call (954) 533-2206 or book online through Tamarindo’s official website.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early on Friday or Saturday to catch live music and soak in the weekend vibes.
Fun Facts about Tamarindo Harbor Italian Bar and Grill
The restaurant isn’t just family-owned—it’s family-run. You’ll often find younger family members like Michael Romero in the kitchen and Josseph Amaya greeting guests, keeping the legacy alive.
Co-owners Yecson Amaya and Sergio Romero started their culinary journey as a dishwasher and a delivery driver. Their rise to owning three successful restaurants is a true from-the-ground-up story.
Have you visited Tamarindo Harbor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
