Barchetta Opens at Omni Fort Lauderdale — A Coastal Italian Chophouse on the Intracoastal

Omni Fort Lauderdale has opened Barchetta, a coastal Italian chophouse overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway at 1880 SE 17th St., on the waterfront plaza adjacent to the hotel and Broward County Convention Center. The restaurant draws from the traditions of coastal Italy with a modern take, pairing imported Italian ingredients with South Florida influences throughout its menu, cocktail program and design.

Led by Executive Chef David Caceres, the menu features handmade pastas, premium seafood and prime steak. Highlights include Bistecca Fiorentina, a prime T-bone for two; Frutti di Mare, a mixed seafood dish with Florida black grouper and Kaluga caviar; and Bucatini Cacio e Pepe, a handmade pasta finished with black truffle.

Behind the bar, the cocktail program takes a playful approach to Italian classics and aperitivo culture with South Florida flavor woven throughout. The Pomodoro Negroni uses tomato-basil-washed gin alongside Campari and sweet vermouth. The Day Drift features J.F. Haden's Lychee Liqueur from Miami-based Tropical Distillery — founded by Florida natives and former NFL players Mike and Maurkice Pouncey — combined with Prosecco, lemon juice and St-Germain.

The name Barchetta — Italian for "little boat" — references the small, open boats found speeding along Italy's coast, and the lightweight open-top sports cars that became synonymous with chic Italian design. The room reflects both: warm red tones, wood, stone, leather and layered textures, with clean lines, contemporary details and bright Italian-inspired artwork.