Morton's, The Steakhouse

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

A Chicago Legend on East Broward Boulevard

Morton's The Steakhouse traces its roots to a single, memorable moment: co-founders Arnie Morton and Klaus Fritsch, both working at the Playboy Club in Montreal, connected over what Arnie immediately called the "Million-Dollar Hamburger" — a burger Klaus had cooked that stopped Arnie in his tracks. That chance encounter in the kitchen set in motion what would become one of America's most recognized steakhouse brands, opening its first doors on State Street in Chicago in 1978. Today, the Fort Lauderdale location on East Broward Boulevard carries that same founding philosophy forward: quality, consistency, and genuine hospitality.

What's on the Plate

As a steakhouse, Morton's commitment to the cut is uncompromising. The kitchen works exclusively with USDA prime-aged beef — representing the top 2% of beef available in the United States — sourced from the same suppliers the brand has used since day one. If a piece doesn't meet Morton's standards, it doesn't reach the cutting board. Current menu highlights include a Prime Bavette Steak Frites, Wagyu Beef Stroganoff, and a rotating selection of seasonal dishes offered for a limited time.

The steakhouse identity doesn't crowd out the seafood side of the menu. Chilean Sea Bass, Oysters on the Half Shell, Oysters Rockefeller, Colossal Shrimp, Red King Crab Legs, and a Lobster & Crab Cocktail round out a program that pairs naturally with the prime beef selections for a classic land-and-sea experience.

The Bar and the Wine Program

Bar 12-21 anchors the more casual side of the room with hand-crafted cocktails, imported and local craft brews, and chef-selected bites — including seasonal cocktails and half-pour "Mor-'Teenys." The energy here keeps the dining room lively without disrupting the more composed atmosphere of the main tables or private rooms.

The wine program is where Morton's Fort Lauderdale has earned particular recognition. The location holds the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, a distinction that reflects a list of more than 300 wines spanning exclusive vintages, sommelier selections, and cult favorites. An on-site Wine Locker program allows guests to store personal bottles, and General Managers and Sommeliers are on hand to guide pairings. Morton's has also introduced "State & Rush," a private label sourced from Oak Ridge Winery in Lodi, California, available in Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

Private Dining and Events

Beyond the main dining room, Morton's Fort Lauderdale accommodates private parties, business functions, and catered events in dedicated private rooms. The brand also partners with athletes and their foundations for charity events, seasonal wine dinners, and one-of-a-kind exclusive menus — all part of what Morton's calls its Prime Events program.