St Tropez Bistro, Fort Lauderdale

After leaving France behind and settling down in Fort Lauderdale in 2007, owners Gerard and Christine became wistful with memories of their homeland. However, with the love for their new city quickly taking root, the duo decided that, instead of returning to France, they could simply add an authentic touch of the French Riviera to Florida’s culinary landscape. Opening in 2009, St. Tropez Bistro didn't take long to win over new friends and neighbors, winning a 2009 Best French Restaurant award from the readers of DiningGuide and a rating from the food critics at Zagat. To foster that authentic French feel, they added Chef Dominique to their team, letting him craft fresh tuna tartare and spicy lamb sausages with ratatouille to complement the restaurant’s wine list. A crew of experienced, knowledgeable wait staff—many from France, as well—bustles among the art-deco advertisements and accordion-playing Eiffel Towers that help complete the French Riviera vibe.