Café Vico: 30 Years of Excellence and the Lasagna That Changed Everything

If you’ve been searching for an authentic Italian restaurant in South Florida, the wait is officially over! After our recent taping of Who’s at the Chef’s Table with Chef Dan, we finally sat down for a long-awaited and much-deserved update at Café Vico. Chef Vico, the chef and owner, treated us to a lunch that felt less like a meal and more like a homecoming.

The Ultimate Lasagna Showdown

For years, Chef Dan has heard the same phrase: “No one makes lasagna as good as Doris.” It was a mantra, a rule of thumb, and a culinary fact in our household. Well, after 30 years of Chef Vico perfecting his craft at this very location, that mantra might have officially ended.

Doris dived into the Lasagna Bolognese—voted one of the best lasagnas in Broward—and she did not put her fork down from start to finish! Layered with perfectly seasoned ground beef, rich cheeses, and a velvety béchamel sauce, it was a total game-changer.

I went with my personal favorite: the Veal Piccata. Prepared with a bright lemon white wine sauce, capers, and artichoke hearts, it came served with a side of broccoli, penne pasta, and their signature sweet potato mash. The textures, flavors, and seasonings are exactly as I remember growing up in a North Jersey Italian household. At Vico, you don’t just eat; you feel like you’re home.

30 Years of the “WOW” Factor

Café Vico is a Fort Lauderdale institution that has delivered high-quality, authentic Italian food at this same spot for three decades. It is the unequivocal “must-visit” for any real foodie looking for that perfect “splurge” dinner with impeccable service.

• The Vibe: A vibrant, classic celebration. Visit Wednesday through Saturday to enjoy the Live Piano Bar for added ambiance.
• The Hospitality: The attention to detail is unmatched. Be sure to say hello to Vico when you visit!
• Happy Hour: Enjoy the atmosphere and great value by taking advantage of their Happy Hour from 4 PM to 7 PM daily.
• Pro Tip: This restaurant’s 30-year reputation means you must make reservations, as it does get crowded. Fortunately, there is plenty of parking in the large lot for your convenience.

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