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.

Essential Details

Address 1125 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Contact Phone: 954-565-9681 | Web: cafevicorestaurant.com
The Hook 30 Years of Excellence! The lasagna that finally challenged Doris, a North Jersey vibe, and a Live Piano Bar.
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Chef Diaz
Author: Chef Diaz

With over 40 years of hands-on experience in the hospitality industry—beginning his journey shucking clams on the Jersey Shore boardwalk—Chef Dan has built a career dedicated to culinary authenticity and independent food journalism. As the Co-Founder, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Editor of SoFloDining, he champions an uncompromised reviewing standard. Under his direction, the publication relies entirely on unannounced visits, self-funded meals, and multi-year municipal health inspection records, rejecting paid endorsements and staged influencer promotions in favor of true culinary craftsmanship. Beyond editing and publishing the brand's digital magazine editions, Chef Dan expands SoFloDining's reach across multiple media channels. He hosts the weekly video interview series "Who's at The Chef's Table," produces syndicated podcasts, and manages an extensive network of regional community dining groups across South Florida and the Florida Keys. Whether he is scouting roadside gems along the Overseas Highway, advocating for independent restaurant operators, or collaborating with his wife and business partner Doris, Chef Dan remains a passionate, trusted voice celebrating the diverse food culture of South Florida.