When we visit Florida, we tend to make Ft. Lauderdale our base, we say this for reasons not worth going into other than to explain to readers why restaurants in this city versus others are the focus of reviews. (Though there are an enormous number and range of restaurants).
Of the 20 or more restaurants we have eaten at, Grill 66 remains a favorite for several reasons. Eating there last night only reinforced its best qualities. It is expensive — two people, full meal and drinks can be over $150. But it is worth it.
The atmosphere is open: a large main room, glass walls facing the marina of massive yachts. The waiters are all very friendly, informed, and have a good sense of humor. Their type of personal service adds an upbeat aspect to the experience. Also, the timing of how each stage of the meal is served is very well executed, the pacing is just right which is no small feat. Try and not sit in the main circular room, it can get very noisy with tables for 2 surrounded by tables for 6 or more.
As for the food…while having tried numerous appetizers, oysters, lobster, steaks, and nearly every side dish, there are some items that just are must-haves.
The steaks are fantastic. We have tried their haddock, swordfish and lobster — above average but not the real focus. The lobster, a Maine one, was the best of the bunch. But for steaks? The 8-oz filet, the two-person porterhouse, the NY Strip, while high-priced, are simply superb. The highest quality meat, cooked just right. We try not to eat too much red meat, but if you’re going to have a steak, this is the place to indulge.
We would recommend starting with their Signature Salad — and split it. It is very large. Basically a chopped salad with feta and round cherry tomatoes. While we cannot point to any one aspect of it that stands out, in its whole it is one of the best salads we have ever had. This time we indulged by splitting the seafood special starter, which was basically half a lobster; very sweet.
The side dishes, like main steak-oriented restaurants, are all good. But the broccoli rabe, they leave too many stalks attached which dulls the taste. The cream spinach is fantastic, as are the regular and garlic mashed potatoes.
As for the “Almost-pretentious” comment comes from the fact that it is an expensive restaurant, with fine decor and a stunning, huge flower decoration at the center of the main room. So, price and scene make it fertile ground for pretense. But being Florida, where people wear flip-flops to upscale restaurants, and the quasi-sports bar that sits atop an upper level, takes the edge of the pretense. You make of it what you want.
The only bad part is the drive to get there; it is a bit difficult; you have to exit for the hotel by the marina on A1A highway (before the before the bridge if coming from the coast); then with only a tiny sign as a clue, you go down this frontage road until you come to the restaurant.
Still, an excellent restaurant…and with so many steak-type restaurants in the area, skip them all and come
http://www.grille66andbar.com/ #grill66
Outspoken Traveler 
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