Locals who have missed dining and imbibing against one of the most scenic backdrops on the Fort Lauderdale strip are heralding the new Dune—now with a Michelin-starred chef leading the way. This past winter, Laurent Tourondel joined the Auberge Beach Residences & Spa to revamp its existing dining offering into Dune by Laurent Tourondel. Renovations to the dining room and outdoor space set the scene for a culinary celebration of life by the sea, says Tourondel.
“It’s an elevated yet approachable seafood grill dining experience celebrating global flavors and best-in-class ingredients amid an energetic, stylized environment that will make you feel like you’re on a chic vacation,” he continues.
The menu features a nigiri menu that also encompasses crispy rice and specialty rolls such as hamachi and jalapeño wrapped with grated ginger, yuzu guacamole, and a soy glaze. Starters vary from a crispy Parmesan souffle stuffed with prosciutto, mustard greens, and a truffle vinaigrette to an array of flatbreads. From there, guests can choose between land and sea options. Dishes of note include grilled bigeye tuna, served rare and accompanied by roasted beets and swiss chard with a lemon-saffron aioli, as well as grilled Australian lamb chops with haricot vert, oregano, and polenta cake with tomato concasse. Don’t miss out on dessert either. Take our lead and order the chocolate peanut butter croquant with a scoop of banana gelato, or the Bananamisu, a modern twist on a classic.
Chef Laurent Tourondel breaks down what not to miss at the new and improved Dune by Laurent Tourondel:
FLI: What made you want to reimagine the Dune concept?
Tourondel: The waterfront in Fort Lauderdale is world-renowned and something that attracts so many people from around the world to experience its beauty firsthand. When this opportunity came along to open a restaurant right on the beautiful beach, I couldn’t turn it down. I knew that I had an opportunity to create a unique concept and design for the space that will continue to cement South Florida’s place as a true culinary mecca.
What do you enjoy most about this Auberge property?
Our patio offers world-class panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. There is nothing quite like dining in the Florida sunshine against the cool, relaxing breeze and experiencing some of the best cuisine in the world.
As a Michelin-starred chef, what do you feel you bring to the Fort Lauderdale food scene?
We designed the dining experience intentionally to be memorable yet approachable and easy to experience several times a week, whether it’s happy hour, dinner, or just because. While I am thankful for past accolades and achievements, I don’t believe what makes a restaurant successful is a Michelin star. The best testament to a successful restaurant is a busy restaurant, and we are very thankful to have Dune by Laurent Tourondel be so well-received by our local community and so quickly [after] our opening here in Fort Lauderdale.
What else should someone know before visiting?
We have an incredible happy hour cocktail and bar menu which is no secret—it’s become the oceanfront gathering hot spot for weekly happy hours in South Florida. The menu offers great deals until the sun sets.
If you haven’t had a chance to experience watching the sunset and enjoying happy hour at Dune, it’s a really exceptional vibe, which we encourage everyone to share with friends and family.
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