CAFE MARTORANO

Dinner Service

Full Italian dinner menu featuring house specialties and classic dishes. Reservations recommended for peak times.

• Signature meatball salad and linguini with clams
• Fresh grouper and short rib specialties
• Complimentary garlic bread with spicy oil

Bar Service

Full bar with Italian wines and classic cocktails. Early arrivals can often find bar seating.

• Experienced bartenders with local knowledge
• Italian wine selection
• Classic and specialty cocktails

Special Events

Private dining and special occasion services with personalized attention from the owner.

• Owner's complimentary dishes for celebrations
• Personalized service for regular customers
• Group dining accommodations

Late Night Entertainment

DJ and lively atmosphere after 10pm on weekends for extended dining experience.

• Weekend DJ entertainment
• Energetic late-night atmosphere
• Extended bar service

“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. 🇮🇹🍝🍷”

“We had dinner here tonight and it was everything we heard it would be! The food was amazing! Everything! Apps to dessert! The service was second to none!! Tom has been here for 16 years! He and his 2nd chair were incredible! Best service we have ever had! I don’t think they cook with gluten because I ate pasta, bread and dessert - didn’t feel uncomfortable or sluggish after dinner. Felt like eating in Italy.”

“I’ve been coming here for years and realized I’ve never reviewed this place. Food and service is always good. It’s a loud vibe but very fun. We sometimes arrive early and can get a spot at the bar. The bartenders are always nice. Menu items are as is with no modifications. After 10pm, there is a DJ and it does get loud. It’s a fun time. Cafe Martotano is a Fort Lauderdale staple that’s worth checking out.”

“We came on a Friday night shortly after opening and without a reservation. We were told that we could be sat, but we would have to leave before 7:45 because that table was reserved at that time. That was plenty of time for us and so we got our seats which were right next to the kitchen. The first thing I noticed was that they had a lot of staff and they were coming and going from directly behind our table. It was a busy little corner. They brought us garlic bread, and it was pretty good . There was some spicy oil that was delicious to dip in. My partner ordered an old Palmer and I just went with tap water. He received a Roy Rogers and we got Pellegrino in a bottle. He did mention that he had ordered an Arnold Palmer and so they brought him that as well. We were charged for the bottled water as well as both his drinks. Our appetizer was mozzarella sticks, and they were so crispy! It was a little odd to me that the waiter plated them for us on our individual plates. I had never seen done before. Then they brought us a sausage and pasta dish that they told us was on the house and a gift from the owner, and it was absolutely delicious! Our main dishes were brought next. I ordered the grouper which was probably the best fish I’ve ever had in my life. My partner got the short rib dish, and the pasta was definitely al dente. He said that the short rib was cooked to perfection and he ate the whole plate so it must’ve been fantastic. The table service was excellent, and the staff was very friendly, even though they charged us for two drinks we did not order. I would 100% go there again while visiting Fort Lauderdale. Also, make sure you pay for your parking. We did not know it was paid parking and got a $40 ticket.”