After a little time away from the heart of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Doris and I returned to find the downtown scene buzzing with change. Management and ownership shifts can often be a gamble, but I don’t gamble when it comes to dining, and the word on the street about Vinnie’s was going strong and too good to ignore. We decided to stop in for lunch following a recent filming to see if this local favorite lived up to the hype.

From our first bite of their lunch special to a full family dinner, Vinnie’s has officially claimed its spot as a premier dining destination for anyone looking for the best restaurants in the Lauderdale By The Sea area.

The Burger That Stole the Show

We initially went in with one goal: try the $13 lunch burger, but after reading the menu, we were intrigued by the Vin Burger. Made with Vinnie’s proprietary blend of locally sourced beef, topped with marsala mushrooms, caramelized onions, provolone, and crispy pancetta, this isn’t just a meal—it’s a handheld work of art.

I honestly can’t believe I’ve lived in South Florida this long and had this elite burger sitting right under my nose. It’s juicy, savory, and perfectly balanced. Between the high-quality beef and the salty kick of the pancetta, it’s a must-order for any burger aficionado visiting Downtown Lauderdale By The Sea.

A True Italian Feast and Local Vibes

A few weeks later, we returned for dinner with family, who live nearby, at The Caribe. The restaurant was packed—a testament to its growing reputation among locals—but we were seated promptly in their spacious, inviting rear dining area.

Adding to the fantastic atmosphere, we were entertained by the soulful sounds of local favorite, Tim Bluntson. Having live music of that caliber really elevates the dining experience, making Vinnie’s the perfect anchor for a night out in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. While the vibes were high, the food remained the undisputed star:

  • The Sausage, Peppers, and Onions: This sandwich took me straight back to the Jersey Boardwalk. It was authentic, nostalgic, and packed with flavor. I’ll be back for this one again and again.
  • The Vin Burger (Round 2): Doris ordered it for the second time in a month and finished every bite. That tells you everything you need to know about its consistency.
  • The Standout: Eggplant Parmigiana: This was the “wow” moment of the night. Served like a lasagna with thin, delicate layers of eggplant stacked high in a perfectly balanced marinara.
    Chef’s Note: I performed the “breakage test” by letting it sit for 20 minutes. Most eggplant dishes weep water or oil, breaking the sauce. Vinnie’s sauce stayed perfectly intact—a sign of true culinary skill, and technical execution.

The Ultimate Happy Hour

Beyond the plate, the hospitality at Vinnie’s is top-tier. Our server made us feel like regulars from the moment we walked in. We also timed our visit perfectly to catch the Happy Hour deals, enjoying a round of half-priced drinks, a Moscow Mule and a Rum and Coke, before heading outside to enjoy the live music that makes Lauderdale-By-The-Sea such a vibrant coastal destination.

With all the recent changes in the area, Vinnie’s is, without a doubt, our new “go-to”. It is currently the only SoFloDining Approved restaurant in downtown Lauderdale-By-The-Sea.

Essential Details

  • Cuisine: Authentic Italian-American & One Hell of a Burger
  • Address: 106 Commercial Blvd, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL 33308
  • The Hook: The “Vin Burger” for lunch and the technically perfect “Eggplant Parmigiana” for dinner.
  • Tip: If you’re staying nearby or living in the area, this is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner. Don’t miss the Happy Hour drink specials! Tag us @SoFloDining to share your experience.