Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse , in Fort Lauderdale, has been open less than one month, but already is drawing praise as the area’s favorite new eatery. The Gioia Hospitality Group’s highly anticipated restaurant brings an upscale dining experience in a welcoming, neighborhood setting. Located at 620 South Federal Highway, Daniel’s embodies the essence of Floridian cuisine, offering a modern steakhouse experience where locally sourced ingredients and a curated beverage program take center stage.
“My daughter and I are excited to bring Daniel’s to Fort Lauderdale, a place I’ve called home for over 25 years. This project is deeply personal for me, as it reflects not only my passion for food but also my commitment to highlighting the incredible farmers, ranchers, and seasonal produce of Florida,” said Thomas Angelo, founder of Gioia Hospitality Group and local co-owner of MICHELIN-Guide recommended Fiola Miami. “I raised my family here, and now I get to share a piece of that with the community by creating a steakhouse that truly feels like home.”
The Gioia Hospitality Group includes some of South Florida’s top culinary professionals. Daniel Ganem, the hospitality group’s Culinary Director, has meticulously crafted a menu highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced primarily from Florida’s farms and waters. Guests can expect Skipper Sweet oysters from the Florida Panhandle, hog snapper from the Florida Keys, Prime steaks and American Wagyu from North Florida ranches, alongside an array of locally sourced fruits and vegetables.
“We’re striving to make as much of our menu as Florida-sourced as possible,” says Ganem. “Our goal is to highlight the unique ingredients found right here in the Sunshine State, bringing seasonality and freshness to every dish.”
Guests at Daniel’s begin their dining experience with a selection of outstanding salads and starters. Appetizer highlights include the Swank Farms Kale & Hearts of Palm Salad, showcasing the finest local produce and the Florida Burrata, sourced from the state’s finest creamery farms.
The Wagyu & Pearls is elegantly plated with ArrowHead beef wagyu tartare and finished off with Kaluga Caviar, while the Serenoa Bay Skipper Sweet Oysters, served with a refreshing passion fruit mignonette, capture the essence of Florida’s coast.
For mains, guests can select from a variety of dishes, including the Joyce Farms Half Roasted Chicken, elevated with black winter truffles and preserved lemon butter; and the Braised Suwannee River Wagyu Beef Short Rib, accompanied by potato fonduta and Gratitude Farms mushrooms.
Among the premium “Steaks and Chops” are exquisite cuts, expertly prepared, such as the Arrowhead Ranch Florida Wagyu Eye of Rib and the 16oz Grass Fed Florida Providence Cattle NY Strip, grilled to perfection and paired with house-made sauces. To conclude the meal, diners would be remiss to skip iconic homemade Key Lime Pie, a true Florida classic, or the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chip cookie skillet.
Leading the elevated bar program is Daniel Bishop, a celebrated Wine and Beverage Director known for his extensive knowledge and carefully curated selections. Bishop shines the spotlight on locally produced spirits and beers, including offerings from Gulfstream Distillery. Signature cocktails are categorized into Martinis, Shaken, Stirred, Reserve, and Non-Alcoholic, each crafted with precision to enhance the dining experience.
“The focus on Florida extends to our beverage program,” Bishop says. “From locally brewed beers to handcrafted cocktails that celebrate our roots, we want guests to feel that connection to the state’s rich offerings with every sip.”
The acclaimed wine dinner series from Fiola Miami, led by Angelo, Bishop and Ganem, has made its way to Daniel’s. With more than 85 curated dinners already under their belt, the team will continue this tradition with monthly wine events.
Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse blends modern design with cozy, upscale touches. Copper accents, dark green banquettes, walnut wood tables, and elegant chandeliers create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Artwork by local artists adorn the walls, including a fascinating series by Naples-based photographer Michelle Tricca celebrating the legendary Florida Cowboys, as well as historical images of Fort Lauderdale.
Private dining is available for up to 25 guests, making Daniel’s an ideal venue for intimate gatherings, corporate events, and family celebrations. The private dining room display a curated selection of work by Alfred Hair and Harold Newton, paying tribute to the art that came to be known as the “Florida Highwaymen,’’ an artistic path that prevailed in the 1950’s and aimed to shed light on the everchanging racial barriers of the times. The adjacent space, formerly home to Canyon restaurant, serves as a private event space with plans for weekday pop-ups and live music events to be introduced in 2025.
The restaurant is open from Tuesday through Saturday, offering Fort Lauderdale a new go-to spot for late-night dining, with the full menu available until 11 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Happy Hour, featuring a selection of expertly crafted cocktails and bar bites, is available from 5 to 7 p.m. from Tuesday through Friday.
“We know how important it is to have a spot where you can enjoy a full meal later in the evening, especially after catching a game or spending time with family and friends,” Angelo said. . “At Daniel’s, we’ve made it a point to be that place for our community.”
Photos Courtesy of Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse