New to the Scene: Broward Edition

Broward County welcomes a handful of new restaurants to its dining scene this Fall.

Talento Restaurant's Crispy Risotto Topped with Savory Mushrooms - Photo by Jason Brietstein-limestar.com

Ciao Bella
Southern Italian fare arrived on Las Olas over the summer in the form of Talento Restaurant. Helmed by Italian-born chef Luigi Criscuolo, the menu focuses on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, homemade pastas and breads, fresh seafood, steaks and much more. Criscuolo brings a legacy of family recipes with him, plus a few new takes on traditional flavors. In true Italian fashion, the restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a private tasting cellar. 1307 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 754.206.4180; talentorestaurant.com

Sparrow at The Dalmar – Photo by Anthony Nader-52 Chefs

Rooftop Vibes
Head to the 25th floor of The Dalmar for the trendy rooftop bar Sparrow, where you’ll feel as if you’re floating above the city. Have a seat at the main bar, in the lounge or outside on the patio, each of which radiates a midcentury-modern design and exudes a nostalgic yet contemporary feel. The food is as creative as the decor, with standout dishes such as sweet corn fritters and crispy mushroom steamed buns. The indoor cocktail menu is separated into three sections: Cruise Control, featuring tropical classics; Adventurous, with a few daring ingredients; and Group Format, perfect for large parties. The outdoor bar has its own cocktail menu, with a cocktail for every color of the rainbow. 299 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale; 954.945.9100; sparrowbar.com; thedalmar.com

Explosion of Flavors
A tasty Indian fusion dining experience awaits in East Fort Lauderdale at the new 85-seat Moksha Indian Brasserie. The restaurant’s menu, devised by Executive Chef Christopher Corda, offers a variety of South Asian dishes and flavors, including traditional recipes and eclectic new twists. Carnivores, pescatarians and vegetarians alike will find something to try among the small and large plates, soups, salads and live fire specialties. Make sure to save room for the fig and mango ice cream. 2823 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954.314.7349; mokshaftl.com

Neat & New
If you’re wishing for whiskey, this 17th Street Causeway cocktail lounge will be your favorite new watering hole. Created by executives from Old School Hospitality, the masterminds behind Good Spirits Fifth and Fed, Whiskey Neat Cocktail Lounge features more than 200 whiskeys complemented by unexpected ingredients and plenty of creative ice varieties. During happy hour (5 to 7 p.m.), each round of drinks is accompanied by a rotating selection of tapas. 1035 SE 17th St., Fort Lauderdale; whiskeyneatbar.com