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    Cafe Martorano

    3.4 (838 reviews)
    Closed 6:00 pm - 11:00 PM

    Cafe Martorano Photos

    Business Info

    CAFE MARTORANO ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Very loud
    Outdoor seating
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Cafe Martorano

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    Merch
    Sergio F.

    Those who know me know the culinary way to make me happy is with either burgers or Italian food. This last Saturday, my friend Monica and I came here to continue my birth month celebration with delicious plates of pasta. Located in Oakland Park right off the Intracoastal, Martorano's is a cozy Italian spot perfect for celebrations and date nights. The owner, Steve Martorano, is a true renaissance man, wielding a turntable as skillfully as a sauce pan. Yes, I actually saw him in the kitchen whether cooking himself or performing in person QC and as the night went on mixing music. Last night's vibe was soul and old-school hip-hop. Classical music for us! In addition to the music, they also have mob movies playing on the TV's. As a grown up 80s kid / 90s teen this was perfect! I was originally not going to drink because I was going to run a 10k Sunday morning,, then OK just one then... maybe I was convinced to have a little more. I enjoyed their full bodied and perfectly dry Chianti. The sip that I got from my friend's espresso martini was pretty good as well. Heck, it may even have made me a better runner :) Besides the fluffy bread and spicy oil, we were first treated to a chicken cutlet amuse bouche which our server cut at the table. Then came delicious fried baby meatballs with 'Sunday Gravy' (known as marinara sauce in other areas). Side note: table reservations are for 90 minutes, but you're able to lounge by the bar and get another round. My main was a delicious and sizeable chicken parm garnished with basil, gnocchi cream and a fresh San marzano tomato sauce. Monica's Carbonara dish was artistically prepared tableside. Normally I'm strictly a red sauce kind of guy and I enjoyed a bite as well. Both plates were big enough to get takeout. Since we came for my birth month, I told our waiter when I ordered my waffle cake stuffed with ice cream as well as an edible piece of white chocolate marked with his signature "Yo Cuz" phrase. They brought it out with a candle and sang Happy Birthday. Martorano's was definitely worth the drive and I look forward to another visit.

    Expresso
    Will M.

    Great spot for your Italian classics with a modern and trendy twist. Came with a big group and they let us order family style. A lot of great cocktail options. Heard the hype about the cheesesteak and was skeptical but it came out piping hot and full of flavor. I'll absolutely be coming back for the cheesesteak. If you like dinner with club lights deff check out this spot.

    Bucatini Carbonara
    Samantha S.

    Food was okay. I didn't love the location, however the service was good. Ambiance again was okay. I think I was expecting more but it was nothing special. The mozzarella appetizer was so small and tasted like the mozzarella I can go buy at Publix for $6 but it was $25. Did not taste fresh. I don't like how much food they give. I understand that's what they do here but they just kept bringing out more food. By the time my pasta came I didn't even want it anymore I was so full!! If you come here you definitely don't need an appetizer. They give you bread and other snacks which is what made me so full. Overall I don't think I'd come back, it was extremely overpriced.

    Yo cuz Yo Cuz
    Cristy R.

    Must make reservations if you want to be seated. Our reservations were made early January and the first available Saturday was the 1st weekend of February. BUT...It was well worth the wait. Friends have talked highly about it so I was eager to go check it out for myself. The servers are on point. Friendly , patient, knowledgeable. Right away taking the drink orders and bringing water and bread out to the table. Everything is made upon request so immediately you are informed to order appetizer, meal and desert at the same time. The menu specifically says " no substitutions" so if you are allergic that can be an issue. But who's allergic to pasta?!?! Say's no one! lol As appetizer we got a warm mozzarella... that had a vinaigrette drizzle. The waiter cuts it into pieces infront of you. You see it like melt right before your eyes. Let me say delish. The warmth of the mozzarella was a hit. ( nice for that cold chilly evening that we don't get often) Oh did I mention Steve Martorano has his own wine of Pinot Grigio so for $82 a bottle why not. I believe the glass was like $20 something. Who stops at 1 glass of wine! lol The wine was also good. As for my meal I had a Carbonara pasta! Yum yum! Can I say I would have never imagined an egg getting cut and mixed into my pasta (in-front of me) would taste so good! But that was the most rich and creamy dish. The portion was pretty big! I could not finish my meal. ( I should of taken my left overs to go because the next day I was savoring my pasta dish) Desert we ordered a cake Yo Cuz that I will share the pic. I am not a desert person but I must admit I pushed for like 5 bites of the cake. The ambiance vibe is nice and older elegant crowd. They have a bar and tables surrounding both sides of the restaurant. The walls have pictures and TV playing old classics. I believe every seat in the restaurant gets a view of the chef into play ... Steve Martorano! Along with his skills in the kitchen - he is a DJ. I would have never imagined a chef that will be playing some old school music while doing his thing. That's what I call loving your job! If you're looking for a night out, with family, friends or date night. This is a great spot.

    Steve's linguine and clams
    Katie H.

    Everything about this restaurant is phenomenal. Food- 10/10. Customer Service experience-- 100% they do all the little gestures that truly make hospitality! Cleaning of the white table cloth in between, serving pasta for guests- attentive -- the list goes on!

    ella k.

    Cafe Martorano's is the definition of authentic Italian dining in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. From the moment you walk in, you can feel that this place is a true labor of love--Steve's heart and soul are in every dish that comes out of the kitchen. The classic movies playing on the big screen set the perfect old-school vibe, and the atmosphere feels warm, lively, and familiar. Many of the guests are clearly regulars, greeted by name and welcomed like family, which makes the experience feel less like a restaurant and more like being invited to a big Italian family meal. As for the food--exceptional across the board. The famous meatball salad is a must, the crispy mozzarella is perfection, and Steve's linguini and clams is unforgettable. Honestly, though, you can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Every dish is executed with care, flavor, and authenticity. Cafe Martorano's isn't just a meal--it's an experience. A Fort Lauderdale staple that never disappoints and keeps you coming back for more.

    The most LEGIT Sicilian slice I've ever had.
    Charles J.

    It all started with the veal chop--thick, tender, and seasoned like it had a standing ovation coming. If Michael Corleone ordered this in Little Italy, even he'd crack a smile. Charred on the outside, blushing on the inside--like it just stepped off a first-class flight from Palermo. Then came the Sicilian slice. One bite and suddenly you're in a smoky back room with Robert De Niro saying, "Try the slice, kid--it's a real slice." Crispy crust, molten cheese, and that sauce? Fuggedaboutit. The kind of slice that doesn't just hit--it talks to you. And the carbonara? Pure Roman gold. Creamy without cream, with that rich pecorino bite and silky pancetta that whispers, "This is how it's done." Picture a Goodfellas dinner scene--long table, laughter, red wine flowing--and this dish getting passed around like family secrets. Every dish was a main character. No extras, no fillers. Just bold flavors, old-school charm, and enough soul to make you want to light a cigar and toast to la famiglia.

    Ed B.

    The vibe here is electric -- a full-on party with DJ music, flashing lights, and owner-chef Steve Martorano at the center of it all. It's loud, it's fun, and it's exactly what life should feel like over dinner. The Philly cheesesteak appetizer? Hands down the best in Florida. The pizza -- only served as an app -- is next level. We split the carbonara, which they serve tableside like a performance (and yes, it's worth every penny). It's not cheap, but the experience is unforgettable. I've been here about 10 times over the years, and it never disappoints. This place is a Fort Lauderdale must

    Escarole , beans and cavatelli
    Jennifer L.

    This place was excellent. As an Italian, I don't say that lightly. From the very first bite of the meatball salad appetizer, I was immediately transported back to my Nonna's house on New Year's -- pure comfort and nostalgia. I then ordered a dish I make often myself: escarole, beans, and sausage cavatelli. It was absolutely delicious. You can tell they use real grated Parmesan or pecorino in the sauce -- rich, savory, and done the right way. This is true, authentic Italian food -- not over-styled, not "fancy for the sake of fancy," just honest, old-school Italian cooking in a warm, classic atmosphere. I will absolutely be back.

    Pistachio cake
    Ariella V.

    I've been eating at Martorano for a long time. This time it hit different. The food is always amazing and is so fresh, you can't beat it. For me in the past, the music and movies overtook the experience at times. I loved the party vibe and could jam out to the songs so with all due respect it was always a good time. However this time, the music was down and the movies were muted. I could enjoy the conversation with my family and friends and Steve kept his sample tastings flowing along with it. I ordered a shrimp scampi which is life changing ever. single. time. It doesn't get better than that so make sure you order it. There was also a special of linguini and clams but with it came lobster and crab. 4 other people in my party ordered it as well. My husband ordered the short rib bolognese and it was amazing as well. I don't have many photos unfortunately but we also ordered the pistachio cake and cookies and cream cake. Rosé was delicious and crisp as well. Overall, fantastic experience, fantastic service, fantastic time. Definitely needs a higher rating from people, don't sleep on Cafe Martorano. Side note: at the bottom of the menu there is a special note to customers should they want a rosary. I am not religious but felt this was extremely thoughtful and I asked for two.

    Rum cake
    Mike B.

    This is the best Italian food I've ever eaten. Wow, I've been here 4 times and every time is on point !. The service, food and cocktail drinks are great. Ambiance is awesome, loud good music for a date night out. DJ is a pro. Make reservations because it gets busy. 10/10 !!!!!

    Tori G.

    I loved everything about this dinning experience. They have a bar in the middle of the restaurant with the dinning area around it. They also cook the food on the front of you on a side grill. They had a DJ performing with amazing lights. I got a couple appetizers the meatball is to die for! It melted in my mouth plus you can tell the pizza had all homemade ingredients. I'm upset though at myself because I did get a video of our main courses yet forgot to save them smh! The beef rib raviolis are to die for big oh portions. My date let me try his chicken Parmesan it was amazing as well. The food comes out as soon as they cook it it's so fresh. Plus, my waiter was so attentive & he cleans the table off. On top of that serve the food also if you want any something to go you don't have to box it. I give this place 10/10 MUST TRY!!!

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    26 days ago

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    4 days ago

    Always love it. The vibe, service and food are outstanding! Definitely one of my favorite restaurants!

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    2 months ago

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    11 months ago

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    3 months ago

    What an amazing dinner! Food was delicious but Jose and Jose made our evening even better. Great service! We will definitely be back!

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    2 years ago

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    4 months ago

    Carbonara that has pancetta, cream and parmigiana? Yeah that's not carbonara. Not sure what it is but it's definitely not carbonara

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    2 months ago

    Get rid of cuz. He thinks he owns the place. Served eggs with potatoes and a chunk of bread and had the gall to ask for $780.95 for it.

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    7 months ago

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    7 months ago

    Food is always great atmosphere is amazing. We ate in less than an hour however, I still felt rushed.

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    3 years ago

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    Cafe Martorano Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Cafe Martorano

    Is it better to sit inside or outside?

    Inside for sure. Great atmosphere, and the smell of Italy ......mmmm I'm getting hungry. Enjoy

    What time does the music start on Saturday night?

    I believe around 9ish, but call to make sure.

    Neat spot Steve is wonderful?

    Wonderful is relative but to answer your question He's a wonderful cook Runs a wonderful restaurant… Read more

    View All 8 Questions

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    The Den Sports Bar and Lounge

    The Den Sports Bar and Lounge

    4.2
    (105 reviews)
    4.3 mi
    $$

    I'm back again! 3 years in a row and let me say I am glad this place didn't disappoint! I was here…read morefor spring break vacation 2022 family vacation 2023 and closing this year out another stop! Great ambiance and vibes! It literally says "EAT DRINK VIBE" and yes it's a great vibe! I had the kicken chicken sandwich amazing. Hot and cool at the same time. Service is why I keep coming back. I love it!

    While checking out what's new in the Himmarshee neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale, we happened upon…read moreThe Den Sports Bar and Lounge. The Den occupies an enviable corner street location which was once pf a very good restaurant with a good bent toward Floribbean Cuisine, but now that is all gone, and The Den is just another very typical sports bar. The Den Sports Bar and Lounge has little if any décor about it, not even of sports equipment. The menu is basically bar food which may be summed up as chili, tacos, wings and handhelds of sliders, Philly cheesesteak, burgers, and a chili hot dog. I'd say bar food is rather pricey with chili hot dogs at $16.00 and Black & Blue Burgers at $19.00. I wasn't here for a game but understand it attacks a good beer guzzling hoot and hollering group of fans. By far, the best thing going for The Den is it's efficient, know what they are doing, and attractive female bartenders. They're great conversationalist, know how to make a great cocktail, and just make one feel good.

    Photos
    Fried Chicken Sandwich
    Fried Chicken Sandwich
    Calamari and Shrimp sandwich
    Calamari and Shrimp sandwich
    Bar area, great service, support polite staffs and dog friendly!

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    Bar area, great service, support polite staffs and dog friendly!
    Twice Removed

    Twice Removed

    4.6
    (327 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    We were looking for a late-night meal and came across this restaurant tucked away in a quaint area…read moreof Fort Lauderdale. Parking was conveniently located right in front of the restaurant, making it an easy stop. As soon as we walked in, we were warmly greeted and invited to sit wherever we liked. We chose a table near the window and immediately appreciated the intimate and charming atmosphere. The restaurant also features a bar and televisions, creating a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Our waitress was pleasant, attentive, and made us feel right at home, which always enhances the dining experience. Although we weren't extremely hungry, the menu had so many appealing options that we decided to sample a few items. We started with the Caribbean Tea shots, which were unique, refreshing, and surprisingly enjoyable. For drinks, we ordered a Malbec and a Peanut Butter Old Fashioned. Our first entrée was the Churrasco Frites, featuring marinated skirt steak topped with chimichurri and served with twister fries. The steak was cooked perfectly, tender and flavorful, but those fries were the true star of the dish. Still wanting more, we ordered the Garlic Parmesan Twice Cooked Wings. They were nicely prepared and satisfying, though I would have enjoyed a stronger garlic flavor. Not quite finished, we moved on to the Oaxaca Burger, an 8 ounce burger stacked with onion rings, bacon jam, house BBQ sauce, and Oaxaca cheese. This was one of the best burgers I've ever had, and possibly the best. The bun was toasted yet soft, the burger was seasoned perfectly, and it was cooked to a juicy medium temperature. Every bite was packed with flavor. Overall, everything we ordered was excellent, and the service and atmosphere made the experience even better. I would definitely recommend this restaurant and look forward to returning.

    Went to Twice Removed after a concert nearby in Wilton Manors and had a mixed experience overall. I…read morereally wanted to love the place because the atmosphere is great -- very comfortable, relaxed, and in a fun area to spend the evening. The bar and restaurant itself has a welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. I ordered the tuna appetizer, but unfortunately it just wasn't for me. To their credit, the staff handled it very professionally and took it back without any issue, which I appreciated. The rest of the table had a much better experience with their meals. The steak and salads especially got good reviews from everyone and looked very well prepared. Even though my dish missed the mark, the service and atmosphere were solid enough that I'd still consider giving eTwic another try in the future. Sometimes one item just doesn't hit, and there were definitely enough positives about the restaurant to make me curious to come back and try something different next time. I know that one friend at the table really enjoys this place so I must believe that she has good taste!

    Photos
    Bar area.
    Bar area.
    Truffle fries
    Truffle fries
    Peanut butter old fashioned and Palomita

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    Peanut butter old fashioned and Palomita

    Cafe Martorano - italian - Updated July 2026

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