The Floridian Restaurant, often simply called “The Flo,” is a beloved, long-standing establishment on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Uniqueness
The Floridian is unique primarily due to its combination of deep history, its classic American diner atmosphere, and its 24-hour service.
- 24/7 Diner: It’s one of the few places in the area open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it a go-to spot for late-night revelers and early-bird diners alike.
- Nostalgic Atmosphere: The restaurant boasts a vintage, retro vibe with classic décor and a colorful, eclectic collection of black-and-white photos and memorabilia that harken back to the Golden Age of Hollywood and a bygone era of Fort Lauderdale. It’s often described as a “shrine to kitsch.”
- Diner Menu: The menu is famously voluminous, offering a massive selection that caters to nearly every taste, from classic comfort food to more regional favorites.
History
The Floridian Restaurant has been a Fort Lauderdale landmark, serving the community since 1937. This makes it one of the city’s oldest and most cherished dining spots. It has been a consistent presence on the busy Las Olas Boulevard for over 80 years, evolving into a place where locals and tourists mix for a hearty, unpretentious meal. The restaurant has been operated by Butch Samp since 1977.
Highlight Menu Items
The menu is vast, offering everything from all-day breakfast to full dinner entrees. Some of the highly noted or unique items include:
- All-Day Breakfast: A major draw, with various classic diner breakfasts and multiple takes on Eggs Benedict (including Crab Cake and Smoked Salmon).
- The Floridian Burger: A legendary, colossal, two-pound cheeseburger, often served with chili cheese fries.
- The Fat Cat Breakfast: An eccentric, high-end breakfast option that reportedly includes a New York strip steak, eggs, home fries, and a bottle of Dom Perignon (or a “Not So Fat Cat” version with a cheaper champagne substitute).
- Comfort Food Staples: Classics like Baked Meatloaf, BBQ Ribs, Reuben sandwiches, Fish & Chips, and a variety of melts and burgers.
- Bimini Bread: A sweet, soft Bahamian bread often served as an appetizer.
Customer Feedback
Customer feedback generally highlights the restaurant’s nostalgia, generous portions, and good value for money.
- Positives: Diners often praise the “good diner food,” the “outstanding breakfasts served round the clock,” the “casual, cozy” ambiance, and the “great coffee.” The diverse, extensive menu and the late-night availability are frequently cited as major benefits.
- Areas for Improvement: As a 24/7 diner, some reviews occasionally mention inconsistent food quality or issues with delivery orders (e.g., missing items or cold food).
Significant Events
While the restaurant is a historical institution, information on specific major historical events that took place at the location is not widely detailed in public records. However, its enduring presence has made it a backdrop for countless local memories, gatherings, and celebrations over nearly a century. The restaurant is known to hold special dinners and remain open for major holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.
Location and Contact Information
