Visiting from out of state? Here is your holistic guide to Ft. Lauderdale

The International Center for Dental Excellence welcomes you to the Sunshine State. We want to make sure your stay is the best it can be. So, we have compiled a list of our favorite places to stay, dine, and enjoy in the Ft. Lauderdale area. Of course, we have many stunning beaches, historic waterways and a myriad of fun and relaxing activities for you and your family during your visit with us. Our patients come from all around the globe and some have even made Ft. Lauderdale their second home after experiencing the sunshine and feeling the healing benefits of a tropical climate. We are looking forward to meeting you!

Nourishing your body involves fueling it with great foods, and with relaxing and enriching activities. May we suggest:

Accommodations

• Pelican Grand Beach Resort is more than a breathtaking place to stay when in Fort Lauderdale; the Dolphin Isles property is its own “stretch of paradise,” featuring oceanfront fun for everyone in the family – from rides along its “Lazy River” to a dip in its zero-entry pool.
• The Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale East/Lauderdale-By-the-Sea property combines the ultimate in relaxation with convenience. It’s located a stone’s throw from the world-renowned snorkeling and scuba-diving at Pompano Beach and Lauderdale-By-the-Sea. Take the shuttle service to the beach, or enjoy a lovely, short walk – they supply the chairs!
• Let the Hampton Inn Fort Lauderdale, east of the Florida turnpike in Tamarac, be your “home base” for all the adventures that the “Venice of America” has to offer. The property is just minutes from a vast array of historic landmarks, water sports, leisure and entertainment – near the Lakes Mall, Fort Lauderdale Stadium, Veterans Park, and Sunrise Country Club.

Living Green

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Living Green is a food bar with organic, market, and grab-and-go options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free patrons. Visit the fresh market in the Oakland Park suburb, 1305 East Commercial Boulevard, between 7 am to 9:30 pm.

Myapapaya juicery + Kitchen

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Myapapaya juicery + Kitchen has all sorts of fresh vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free goodies – from sandwiches to organic salads, smoothie bowls, small soups, and raw cold-pressed juice. Get your energizing fresh food fix at 1040 Bayview Drive in the Coral Ridge neighborhood between 8 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Lunchroom

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Sandwiches are a lot more interesting at Lunchroom, a fast-casual concept specializing in vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-dairy twists on classics (such as the ramen burrito and tuna poke wrap). Check out the 4520 North Federal Highway spot between 11 am to 9 pm Monday to Saturday, with breakfast and lunch Sunday.

First Watch

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The Tampa-born brunch chain, First Watch, has developed a loyal following among health-conscious patrons who dig into their superfoods bowls, power wraps, and tonics (juiced daily, with all-natural ingredients). Stop by the Lauderdale-By-The-Sea location at 4715 Ocean Drive between 7 am to 2:30, daily.

Warsaw Coffee Company and Milk Money Bar & Kitchen

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Coffee-lovers, rejoice! Warsaw Coffee Company and Milk Money Bar & Kitchen share a cozy space in the Middle River Terrace neighborhood at 815 NE 13th St. Specialty coffees; classic, craft and kombucha cocktails; and savory options like roasted root turmeric bowls are on the menu 7 am to 6 pm daily.

Gourmet Garden Café & Juices

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Gourmet Garden Café & Juices is bursting with vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian, and organic wraps, smoothies, salads, juices, soups, sandwiches, tacos, and quesadillas from its 6139 Federal Highway shop. Visit the Imperial Point neighborhood café and juicery 9:30 am to 8 pm, Monday through Thursday (closes early Friday and Saturday, from 6 pm and 4 pm respectively).

Green Bar & Kitchen

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Green Bar & Kitchen does plant-based, wholesome vegan, gluten-free, and raw smoothies, soups, juices, salads, smoothies, and bakery items as well. Dig in for yourself. Visit the 1075 SE 17th St. shop between 11 am to 9 pm, Monday through Saturday. Closes at 3 pm on Sundays.

Beehive Kitchen

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The buzz about Beehive Kitchen is its build-your-own bowls and fresh cold-pressed juices made from a colorful and nutritious mix of healthy, hormone-free, gluten-free, and antibiotic-free ingredients. The 200 East Las Olas Boulevard location is open every day from 11 am to 9 pm.

Fresh First

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You won’t find any gluten at Fresh First, South Florida’s pioneering gluten-free dining and juicery establishment in Fort Lauderdale’s yachting district. Stop by 1637 SE 17th Street 8 am to 3 pm daily to enjoy vegan-, vegetarian-, and (of course) gluten-free smoothies, juices, and other healthy fare.

Whole Foods

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And just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you have to go without the “granddaddy of healthy food grocers”: Whole Foods. Fort Lauderdale’s own market is located at 2000 North Federal Highway, in the Poinsettia Heights neighborhood at 2000 North Federal Highway. Visit between 8 am to 10 pm for all your grab and go needs, or to restock your vacation home or hotel fridge.

A few of Dr. Cintron and the team’s favorites include:

Things to do

• Fort Lauderdale Water Taxis – Chicago has the “El.” Savannah has carriages. San Francisco has trolleys. We have water taxis or “water trolleys.” What better way to experience the miles of waterways that have earned the city its reputation as a Stateside “Venice.” Its captains and crews are well-versed on the historical and interesting attractions that can be seen from the water, including sprawling mansions and mega-yachts.
• See the waterways from a totally different perspective with Fort Lauderdale Watersports – parasailing and jet ski rentals. If you opt for parasailing, up to three people can be suspended high above the water for jaw-dropping panoramic views.
• If you’re due for a spa day, you’re in luck. Spa Atlantic at The Atlantic Hotel & Spa (601 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard) offers a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam amenities, makeup application, and spray tanning in addition to massages, body treatments, facial skin care, and an onsite hair and nail salon.
• Of course, there is our celebrated Riverwalk, linking the historic and arts and science district via lush, tropical flora and fauna endemic to the area, as well as vibrant nightlife downtown and at the Dania Beach Casino, and shopping at Galleria Mall Fort Lauderdale. If there is something that interests you and your family, just ask us about it! Dr. Cintron and the team who know this area best are happy to provide great suggestions for unique dining, entertainment, cultural, and lodging experiences. We look forward to being both your guide to a healthier, more beautiful smile, and your guide to getting the most out of your visit as one of our “VIP” guests.