Despite its quaint size, Wilton Manors has an array of restaurants, coffee shops, bistros, and other dining options. The South Florida city, ideal for retirees, is often described as the perfect blend of small-town and urban life, with easy access to nearby Fort Lauderdale and beautiful beachside communities.
This blog will provide an overview of some of the top restaurants and dining venues for retirees in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Top 10 dining options in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale
Rosie’s Bar and Grill | 2449 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL
Famous for its burgers and whimsical, fun atmosphere, Rosie’s Bar and Grill has been open since 2006. According to their website, Rosie’s is “a tropical oasis in the middle of the Island City.” They serve classic dishes, including fresh burgers, chicken, and fish. Rosie’s also has an assortment of refreshing drinks and cocktails.
Bona Italian Restaurant | 2468 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL
Bona Italian Restaurant began as a small pizzeria in 1979 and has expanded to a full-service Italian restaurant. In 2021, they opened Aperitivo Lounge, a craft cocktail bar offering small bites and libations.
Bona Italian believes in giving back to the community. Through their Give Back Monday program, Bona Italian donates 10 percent of all dine-in and take-out orders every Monday to a local non-profit organization.
What the Pho | 2033 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL
What the Pho, located on popular Wilton Drive, offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine for dine-in, take-out, or delivery. Pho, originating in the early 20th century, is a Vietnamese soup made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, beef, and sometimes chicken. It’s frequently served in Vietnam and in restaurants all over the globe.
New York Grilled Cheese | 2207 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, FL
New York Grilled Cheese is home to The Waffled Grilled Cheese®. This isn’t your ordinary grilled cheese sandwich. You’ll enjoy fine cheeses and fresh ingredients melted between homemade baked bread, served straight from the waffle press.
With a plethora of melts to choose from, including Village Vegan and Times Square Pizza Melt, there’s something for everyone. Add a side of waffle fries and save room for their made-from-scratch sweet bake desserts like Hells Kitchen and Sugar Hill Sweet Bake.
Shawn & Nick’s Courtyard Café | 2211 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors, FL
Having served the community for over 50 years, Shawn & Nick’s Courtyard Café is the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re even open late for those craving one of the café’s infamous messy burgers. Seating is available inside or outside on the patio.
Le Patio | 2401 NE 11th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL
Affectionately referred to as “The Tiniest Cutest Restaurant in South Florida,” Le Patio has served European comfort food since 2008. Le Patio offers weekly menu specials with unique flavors and wine pairings, from House-Made Lasagna and Pasta Bolognaise to delicious Shepherd’s Pie and Chicken Richelle. Don’t miss out on their desserts, including Crème Brulee and Beignets au Nutella.
El Camino | 817 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Located on the infamous Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, El Camino creates an authentic experience inspired by the culture and heritage of Mexico. They make all of their tortillas, sauces, and more from scratch using fresh organic and local ingredients. El Camino is open daily for lunch and an early happy hour that offers wine and margarita specials along with delicious tacos and quesadillas.
YOLO | 333 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
YOLO strives to live up to their name, “You only live once,” by serving top-quality steak in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale on Las Olas Boulevard. YOLO serves brunch, lunch, and dinner featuring favorites like The Halmo French Toast Brioche & Whistlepig Maple Syrup, Roasted Freebirds Farm Chicken, and more.
Flamed steak offerings include New York Strip with YOLO steak sauce and Tomahawk Ribeye Steak. Bring your appetite for their selection of dry-aged steaks such as the Bone-In Cowboy Ribeye and Surf N’ Turf “Rib Cap & Grilled Shrimp.” Enjoy speciality cocktails, beers, premium liquors, wine, and champagne with your appetizer during happy hour.
Bulegreen Café Yard | 3299 N Dixie Highway, Oakland Park, FL
Savor a traditional Brazilian coffee pot brew paired with delicious brunch any time of the day at Bulegreen Café Yard. You’ll treasure the outside seating, surrounded by flowers, plants, fountains, and more — completely immersed in nature.
The quaint café brews your coffee in a bule, a Brazilian coffee pot, right at your table. Enjoy a wide variety of hot or cold drinks, including fresh juices, accompanied by freshly prepared salads, omelettes, sandwiches, or your favorite brunch dish.
The Yard at Wilton Manors | 2430 NE 13th Ave, Wilton Manors, FL
Previously known as Eucalyptus Gardens, The Yard is tucked away on Northeast 13th Avenue and is open daily. It’s a hidden gem nestled under Rainbow Eucalyptus trees, surrounded by mural-covered walls.
Inside the open-air shopping center, you’ll find a farmers market, about a dozen eateries, and numerous boutiques. Make time to check out the following culinary offerings:
- The Alchemist – best known for freshly brewed coffee served in a mason jar and delicious, low-carb, open-faced sandwiches called slicers
- Voo La Voo Café – try savory or sweet crepes, fresh omelets, and an assortment of refreshing drinks for breakfast or lunch
- La Mexicana Taco Bar – prides itself on quality Mexican fare in a bohemian environment, featuring weekday lunch specials that include quesadillas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas, and more.
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Convenient on-site dining in senior living communities
If you’re researching senior living communities in the area, you’ll enjoy convenient access to these top dining destinations and more. Senior living residents also benefit from on-site, restaurant-style meals prepared by a culinary team, served three times daily.
When you’re ready for something different, explore these favorite local restaurants and cafés. Bring your friends and loved ones to enjoy the excitement and energy of the city.
Both Williamsburg Landing and Independence Hall, Golden Bell senior living communities in Wilton Manors, would have ranked high on our top 10 list if they were open to the public. Residents and their family members frequently rave about the food quality and the variety of choices they have on the menus.
Life at Golden Bell Senior Living
Senior living communities like Golden Bell provide the comforts of home with the added benefits of supportive care, engaging activities, and a maintenance-free lifestyle. With your daily needs met, your loved one will live more independently and have opportunities to meet friends, discover new interests, and live each day to the fullest.
Golden Bell Senior Living offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, and respite care. Residents have personalized care plans, are treated like family, and are greeted by name in a warm, welcoming environment.
Amenities and activities include:
- Beautiful accommodations
- Landscaped grounds and gardens
- Community outings
- Recreation and social activities
- Chef-prepared meals
- Scheduled transportation
- Beauty and barber shop
- Housekeeping and maintenance services
Please contact us to learn more about our communities or set up a tour. We’d love to hear from you and are happy to help answer any questions you have about senior living. For more information about choosing senior living, download our complimentary Family Decision Toolkit.
