Nestled in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s bustling Las Olas Boulevard, Big City Tavern is more than just a restaurant. It’s an experience.

With its warm, inviting atmosphere, breezy outdoor seating, and mouthwatering menu, this iconic staple has proudly stood the test of time for nearly 25 years.

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of dining at Big City Tavern, and from the moment we stepped inside, we were treated like family. And being welcomed this way is always a good sign.

The Atmosphere: Where Old-World Charm Meets Las Olas Energy

Stepping into Big City Tavern feels like entering a classic, upscale bistro with a modern twist.

The restaurant's interior exudes warmth, featuring rich wood accents, soft ambient lighting, and a lively bar where skilled bartenders shake up some unique cocktails that are worth a sip.

From espresso martinis to classics such as the old-fashioned, you’ll find a drink for every palate.

For those looking to soak in the sights and sounds of Fort Lauderdale, the outdoor seating area is the perfect spot.

We chose to dine on the outside area, where we could enjoy great people-watching while soaking in the vibrant energy of Las Olas Boulevard as we waited for our meal and highly recommend this if this is your first time stopping by.

A Culinary Journey with Chef Ladanna Lawas

What truly set our dining experience apart was the personal touch of Chef Ladanna Lawas, the powerhouse behind Big City Tavern’s kitchen.

Originally from Jamaica, Chef Ladanna has dedicated nearly two decades to the culinary arts, working her way up from a line cook in 2006 to the esteemed executive chef she is today.

Her dishes are inspired by her grandmother’s rich Jamaican cooking and her own love for Italian cuisine. Due to this background, Chef Ladanna infuses her dishes with bold flavors and expert craftsmanship.

At Big City Tavern, her menu reflects a deep passion for fresh, house-made ingredients and creative culinary excellence.

Chef Ladanna personally curated our meal, taking us on a gastronomic adventure that showcased her signature style. We loved the way that she seemed so excited about her position at the restaurant, and we could tell that this menu is a complete labor of love.

As she walked us through the menu, her enthusiasm was contagious, and her eyes lit up as she described the careful balance of spices, the fresh ingredients, and the creative techniques behind each plate.

A Menu That Delights Every Palate

Every bite at Big City Tavern tells a story.

Our meal began with an array of appetizers that set the stage for a great dining experience.

From the crispy calamari, paired with a zesty marinara and aioli, to the truffle ricotta toast, a delicious combination of creamy ricotta, fragrant truffle oil, and toasted bread, all the dishes offer different flavors and it’s best to try as many as you can while there.

For the main course, Chef Ladanna’s signature Half-Roasted Jerk Chicken stole the show.

The flavors were bold, the meat was tender, and the accompanying Caribbean Showdown rice and curry added a delightful kick.

My husband opted for the Short Rib Pappardelle. He loved the dish. The slow-braised short rib and pasta worked perfectly together, and it’s the type of dish that will certainly leave you feeling satisfied!

Pairing our meal with Big City Tavern’s expertly crafted cocktails elevated the experience even further.

The Bourbon Smash was a refreshing yet complex blend of citrus and whiskey, while the Watermelon Martini was the ideal sip for a warm Florida night. Refreshing and well-balanced, one that is a great to pair with your meal and to even start the dining experience off.

More Than Just a Meal: A Family Affair

What stood out the most during our visit wasn’t just the exceptional food, but it was the hospitality.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and genuine enthusiasm.

Our servers were attentive, and a huge highlight was Chef Ladanna herself taking her time to greet us and help manage our dining experience at the restaurant.

Taking time from her busy kitchen, she made it a point to visit our table, sharing her journey, her inspirations, and her love for food. Her passion for the culinary arts and her dedication to her team shine through in every aspect of the restaurant.

She spoke about the importance of teamwork, creativity, and fostering a positive environment in the kitchen.

It seems like everyone at Big City Tavern not only has a passion for their work, but also for working with each other as a team.

House Made Food and Great Weekly Specials

Big City Tavern doesn’t just claim to make everything in-house, but they prove it.

From their own salad dressings and sauces to house-made bread, hand-cut steaks, and freshly crafted pasta of the day, every detail is carefully prepared.

The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of dry-aged steaks, burgers, fresh seafood, and salads, ensuring there’s something for everyone. I recommend sharing a few dishes during your visit, and to create your own food tasting.

Also, they have great weekly specials, such as unlimited Mimosas, Bellinis, Aperol Spritz, or Bloody Marys for $19 with the purchase of an entrée during brunch, Martini Mondays where visitors can enjoy half-off Martinis, a fun Happy Hour from 4-7 p.m. daily at the bar, featuring $9 appetizers, pizzas, and select cocktails, and even Wine Down Wednesdays where you can add a bottle of wine that costs under $99 at 50 percent off with your entrée.

With these specials, there’s no excuse to go check out the spot and to maybe even save some money with your plus one or group.

The Perfect Ending to a Perfect Night

No great meal is complete without dessert, and Big City Tavern delivered in style.

We recommend that you try out the Banana Bread Pudding, a decadent treat drizzled with caramel and served with vanilla ice cream. It was sweet and satisfying, a perfect way to end the night.

So, the next time you find yourself strolling down Las Olas Boulevard, step into Big City Tavern.

Order a cocktail, savor the food, and let Chef Ladanna and her team take you on an immersive culinary journey.

To make reservations and to learn more about Big City Tavern, visit bigcitylasolas.com and their Instagram page, @bigcitytavern.