Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.
Located along Fort Lauderdale Boulevard, the Elbo Room is a popular dive bar with an unmistakable personality that opened its doors in 1938. The bar became famous after the release of the “Where the Boys Are” movie starring George Hamilton and Connie Frances, drawing college students from many parts of the United States.
Following the release of the movie, The Elbo Room Fort Lauderdale became a magnet for spring breaks and regular visitors who come this part of Florida.
Although Elbo Room is considered one of the most classic establishments among Fort Lauderdale beach restaurants, it might seem a bit dated, especially compared to some newer bars and restaurants along the main drag.
On the flip side, the bar has an unmistakable old-school style, and if you want to enjoy a live band performance on a weekend night and mingle with the guests, this place is for you.
Do they serve food at Elbo Room?
Although this bar doesn’t have a food menu, it has plenty of drinks and a good selection of beers on tap. Be aware that this is a cash-only bar.
The outdoor patio is a popular spot, where you can sip a cocktail and take in the sights and sounds of the beach. A must-stop for anyone visiting Fort Lauderdale, it’s a perfect a daytime hangout or a nightlife hotspot with a great atmosphere and live music.
What is the best time to visit Elbo Room Fort Lauderdale?
The best time to visit is in the evening when the bar is more lively. Grab a drink and enjoy the view of the beach from the balcony on the second floor. If you want to enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere, visit early in the afternoon to grab a beer and escape the mid-day heat.
✅ Read: Fort Lauderdale in February
Where’s Elbo Room Fort Lauderdale?
Elbo Room is a beachfront dive bar in Fort Lauderdale at the intersection of East Las Olas Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale Boulevard. It’s hard to miss as this is a busy corner with plenty of traffic that sits at the heart of the Fort Lauderdale beach area.
Address: 241 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
When is Elbo Room open?
It’s open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day.
BEST RESTAURANTS NEAR ELBO ROOM FORT LAUDERDALE
The downside of this popular bar is that it only has a drink menu. But don’t worry, there are tons of beachfront restaurants and cafes within a quick walking distance where you can grab a bite after enjoying your drink.
✅ Read: Best beachfront restaurants in Fort Lauderdale
1. Lona Cocina
A classic Mexican restaurant next to Westin Hotel, Lona Cocina is one of the most popular Fort Lauderdale Beach restaurants where you can try staples like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
In the morning, Lona Cocina doubles as a breakfast spot, and it’s called Tinta, so don’t be surprised when you see these two names used interchangeably. This place has the best breakfast in the Fort Lauderdale beach area.
✅ Read: Best breakfast in Fort Lauderdale
Try their white chocolate blueberry pancakes, Yucatan pancakes, crispy tostadas, or eggs Benedict – you will not be disappointed!
Address: 321 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
2. Boccaccino Cafe and Pizzeria
Just across the road, Boccacino Cafe and Pizzeria is one of the best spots for breakfast and brunch in Fort Lauderdale located at the beginning of the beach. Its menu includes classics like smoked salmon avocado benedict, crepes, waffles, and omelets.
Don’t forget to grab a cup of latte and try either almond or crunchy French toast.
The drink menu at Boccacino includes fruit smoothies, espressos, cappuccinos, and freshly squeezed orange juice, among other options.
Address: 401 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
3. Nanou Bakery
Located a few blocks away along East Las Olas Boulevard, Nanou is a casual breakfast spot that offers pastries, paninis, and sandwiches as well as freshly squeezed juices, iced and hot coffee, and smoothies.
Their breakfast options include avocado toasts, eggs Benedict, breakfast sandwiches, and omelets. Other popular options include pancakes, salads, and combos that come with a variety of juices, coffee, sandwiches, and croissants.
Don’t forget to try their signature Nanouccino, a double espresso with steamed milk, homemade whipped cream, praliné topping, and your choice of Monin syrup.
Address: 2915 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
4. SoBe Vegan
SoBe is one of the most popular vegan restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, where you can enjoy plant-based comfort food. Even if you are not a vegan, you will love their food, it’s that good!
✅ Check: Complete guide to Hollywood Beach
SoBe serves an all-day brunch, as well as a variety of bowls, flatbreads, and main staples like BBQ jackfruit wrap, SoBe V burger, queso burger, crispy mushroom sandwich, and chickpea tuna.
Their photogenic smoothies and vegan ice cream are an amazing refresher on a hot sunny day.
Address: 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
5. Kousine Fort Lauderdale
Located next to McSorley’s Kousine is a hidden gem along Fort Lauderdale Beach that’s a great alternative to typical beach restaurants, as it offers a fusion of cuisines from Peru and Asia.
Their menu includes ceviche, as well as an assortment of fish and meat dishes, but if you are vegan like me or vegetarian, they can also prepare a typical Peruvian Lomo Saltado without meat.
You can also try a traditional Peruvian beer and other signature drinks like pisco, made with alcohol and eggs.
Address: 841 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
6. Pimanti’s Pizza
Pimanti’s Pizza is one of the most iconic Italian restaurants along Fort Lauderdale Beach, where you can try pizza and other Italian staples 24/7.
Pimanti offers fast and friendly service and a great selection of pizza – it’s no surprise that this place is always busy! You can place your order over the phone or walk and order your food and enjoy the nice, low-key atmosphere of this fun local spot.
Address: 901 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
7. Takato
Located in the Conrad Hotel, Takato is an upscale Japanese-Korean restaurant that serves seafood, sushi, and phenomenal cocktails in the oceanfront setting. The place offers a fun and upbeat atmosphere and outstanding customer service.
✅ How to visit Pompano Beach Pier – one of the best free piers in South Florida!
I recommend their heirloom tomato salad, and credible sushi, which come in many flavors. Other great choices are chef-choice sashimi and crispy Brussels sprouts.
Address: 551 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Where to park near Elbo Room?
Parking near Elbo Room is somewhat limited, but there are a few metered parking spots just behind the restaurant along Almond Avenue. Additionally, you can find parking areas within a quick distance from the bar, which could be a good option if you are trying to find a spot on a busy night.
Here are a few parking options near Fort Lauderdale beach:
- Fort Lauderdale Beach Park – Also known as Fort Lauderdale Beachfront Park, is a popular public park along Fort Lauderdale Beach that offers metered parking spots in addition to amenities like picnic tables, an outdoor gym, and basketball courts.
- Las Olas Parking Garage – One of the best places to park your car, Las Olas Parking Garage is located at the intersection of East Las Olas Boulevard and Las Olas Circle. The place is only 1.5 blocks from the beach and offers secure well-lit space and great hourly rates. All-day parking is $30.
- Hall of Fame Marina South Lot – a hidden parking area located near Hall of Fame Drive and just behind Hotel Maren where you can leave your car for a couple of hours if you want to explore bars and restaurants along Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Where to stay near Elbo Room Fort Lauderdale?
Elbo Room is located along Fort Lauderdale Beach, home to some of the best hotels in the city. If you want to be close to the center of action, consider staying at one of the hotels in the area. But if you want to save money and don’t mind commuting to the beach area, you might want to look for a place a bit further away.
Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach
Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach, Curio Collection By Hilton is one of the most popular Fort Lauderdale hotels on the beach that has a restaurant, bar, and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and room service.
The Hotel is near Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, where you can exercise in the outdoor gym or go for a run.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, one of the main historic landmarks in Fort Lauderdale is 1.4 miles away, The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale Shopping Center is 1.6 miles away, and Broward Convention Center is 1.7 miles away.
Points of interest near Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach, Curio Collection By Hilton include the City of Fort Lauderdale Las Olas Marina, Bahia Mar Shopping Center, and Jungle Queen Riverboat.
The nearest airport is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, 4.3 miles away.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT HOTEL MAREN
Tranquilo Hotel
If you are looking for a great affordable hotel in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than Tranquilo Hotel, a small boutique hotel tucked behind the big resorts.
Translated as “quiet or tranquil” in Spanish, this hotel lives up to its name, as it’s on a quiet street which is perfect if you want to relax and get away from the busy beachfront which is about 5 minutes away by walking.
➡️ Best things to do in Dania Beach, Florida
The staff at Tranquil is friendly and accommodating. Galleria Fort Lauderdale is about 5 minutes away by car and Las Olas Boulevard is about 8 minutes by car.
✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY
Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale
Four Points by Sheraton is one of the best all-inclusive hotels near Fort Lauderdale airport that has a free airport shuttle for guests, an on-site restaurant, and a daily breakfast that has continental, vegetarian, and American options.
The property has an outdoor, heated pool and an on-site fitness center. It also offers an on-site launderette and meeting room.
➡️ Check my guide to great budget hotels in Fort Lauderdale
Free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a coffee-making machine are available in every room, as well as a small refrigerator and a microwave, so you can heat your food if you visit one of Fort Lauderdale’s restaurants.
1800 Bistro & Bar is an on-site cafe that serves American dishes and is open for breakfast and dinner.
The shops and restaurants of The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale are 11 minutes drive from the property. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is about 8 minutes away by car.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON
How to get to Elbo Room?
Depending on where you are staying in Fort Lauderdale, there are different ways to get to this popular dive bar.
If you are staying in one of the hotels along Fort Lauderdale beach or slightly further away, consider using ride-shares like Uber or Lyft to avoid the hassle of parking altogether. Fort Lauderdale’s Sun Trolley and Broward County Transit also provide public transportation options to the beach.
If you’re staying relatively close to the beach, consider biking or walking to avoid parking issues altogether.
- By Uber – Uber is a popular option for getting around Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas.
- By transfer – If you plan to spend your Fort Lauderdale Vacation in a beachfront resort, an airport transfer is a perfect option. You can get here on foot from most beachfront resorts in Fort Lauderdale.
- By car – If you want more flexibility and freedom to explore some of the best beaches in Fort Lauderdale and beyond, a car rental is your best option. You check car rental prices online at DiscoverCars, my go-to platform for renting cars in popular travel destinations.
DiscoverCars allows you to choose from dozens of cars at affordable rates. They have no hidden fees or surcharges and you can also buy your insurance at the same time when you book your car online.
Elbo Room Fort Lauderdale: FAQ’s
Why is Elbo Room famous?
The bar gained popularity after it was featured in the movie “Where the Boys Are?” which made it an instant hit among college students.
What movies were filmed at Elbo Room?
“Where the Boys Are?” a classic movie featuring George Hamilton and Connie Frances was filmed here, helping to turn this small dive bar into one of the most visited spots in South Florida among spring breakers and regular vacationers.
What is the history of Elbo Room?
The bar got its name from the fact that you need to keep your arms close to your body so as not to get elbowed.
Does Elbo Room have a dress code?
Elbo Room is a casual dive bar that has no dress code. Whether you live in Fort Lauderdale or visiting and prefer to stick with flip-flops, board shorts, and tank tops, this is the place.