Fort Lauderdale has no shortage of memorable places to dine, but few combine food and scenery quite like Shooters Waterfront. Open since 1982, this Intracoastal Waterway restaurant has grown from a local gathering place into one of the city's best-known waterfront dining destinations.
For travelers exploring Fort Lauderdale restaurants, Shooters offers seafood, steaks, cocktails, weekend brunch, and plenty of views. It can also add a relaxing waterfront meal to your list of things to do in Fort Lauderdale.
What Is Shooters Waterfront Known For?
Shooters Waterfront is best known for its dockside setting along the Intracoastal Waterway. The restaurant underwent a major renovation after its current ownership took over in 2014, helping transform the longtime local landmark into the dining destination guests see today.
It stands out among waterfront restaurants in Fort Lauderdale because guests can arrive by car, Water Taxi, or boat. Complimentary dockage is available for boaters.
If you are researching where to eat in Fort Lauderdale, Shooters is worth considering when waterfront scenery is a priority.
Where Is Shooters Waterfront Located?
Shooters Waterfront is located at 3033 NE 32nd Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, just off Oakland Park Boulevard. Its location provides direct access to the Intracoastal and makes it easy to reach from both A1A and I-95.
The restaurant is also accessible by Water Taxi, making lunch or dinner easy to combine with sightseeing around the city's waterways.
Choosing where to stay in Fort Lauderdale can also affect how easily you explore local dining. Walker Vacation Rentals offers Fort Lauderdale rentals that give travelers a comfortable home base for discovering the area.
What Should You Order at Shooters Waterfront?
Seafood is a major part of the menu, making Shooters a natural option when comparing seafood restaurants in Fort Lauderdale. Current selections include fresh oysters, shrimp cocktail, crispy calamari, coconut shrimp, mussels, crab cakes, sushi, and several fish dishes.
There are plenty of choices beyond seafood, too. Burgers, sandwiches, salads, meat entrées, and other options make it easier for groups with different tastes to dine together.
Weekend brunch is another popular reason to visit. Shooters serves both buffet and à la carte brunch options on Saturdays and Sundays. While everyone has a different idea of the best restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, the combination of menu variety and Intracoastal views gives Shooters broad appeal.

Does Shooters Waterfront Have Outdoor Seating?
Yes. Outdoor dining is one of the main reasons to visit Shooters Waterfront. Guests can dine dockside while watching boats move along the Intracoastal. The restaurant regularly highlights its waterfront patio and dockside atmosphere as central parts of the experience.
For many visitors, the setting is just as memorable as the meal. Consider timing dinner around sunset to enjoy the changing views over the water.
Is Shooters Waterfront Family-Friendly?
Yes. Families can find options for both adults and younger diners. Shooters currently offers a dedicated kids' menu, and its weekend brunch includes child pricing for the buffet.
The waterfront setting can also keep younger travelers interested as boats pass the restaurant. Families staying in private home rentals in Fort Lauderdale can make Shooters part of an easy day of beaches, boating, and sightseeing.
Should You Make Reservations at Shooters Waterfront?
Reservations are a smart choice, especially for weekend brunch, dinner, holidays, and other busy periods. Shooters provides online table booking through its website, and special events can bring additional demand.
Planning ahead is particularly helpful if you want outdoor seating. Guests staying in Fort Lauderdale condo rentals can reserve a table before heading out for the evening.
Final Thoughts
Shooters Waterfront combines a long Fort Lauderdale history with fresh seafood, varied menus, and one of the area's signature Intracoastal settings. It works for a casual lunch, weekend brunch, sunset dinner, or evening drinks.
If waterfront dining is part of your vacation plans, Shooters deserves a spot on your itinerary. Pairing local dining with comfortable Fort Lauderdale vacation rentals makes it easy to experience more of the city at your own pace.
Book Your Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rental with Walker Vacation Rentals
At Walker Vacation Rentals, we believe your accommodations should be as memorable as your time exploring Fort Lauderdale. This is where the ocean meets comfort, with carefully selected properties and service designed around your stay.
Our Fort Lauderdale vacation rentals include options for different group sizes and travel styles. When you book directly through our website, you receive our best price along with personalized service from a team that knows the local market.
Our top five reasons to book with Walker Vacation Rentals are:
- Curated properties and elevated experiences
- Top-notch guest services
- Expert property management
- Local market expertise
- Consistent five-star ratings
From private home rentals in Fort Lauderdale to coastal condos, we help guests find the right fit for their trip. Browse our collection and book directly with Walker Vacation Rentals for your next South Florida getaway.