We found this amazing place while on vacation in Florida, and honestly I cannot believe how spot on all the reviews are. Truly, a hidden gem indeed. I even told my husband that if we had driven past here we wouldn’t have glanced twice. (I actually thought the reviews might be exaggerating… not at all). My husband mentioned he felt like having Paella, and that’s how I found the restaurant. The attention, the taste, the quality of the ingredients, not a single thing failed to impress us. We got the shrimps, house bread, a special chicken breast with a side of rice for our fussy little 7 year old, garlic shrimps, seafood stew, steak and potatoes… and the desserts, almond tart, house flan. You MUST come and try this place, unmissable.
Overview
If you're looking for a delightful dining experience in Wilton Manors, FL, Candela Restaurant should be at the top of your list. Located at 2909 NE 6th Ave, this vibrant spot blends the best of local flavors with innovative cooking techniques, making it a go-to destination for both casual diners and food enthusiasts alike.
As soon as you step into Candela, you're greeted with a cozy and inviting atmosphere that effortlessly combines modern design with a warm, neighborhood vibe. Whether you're dining with friends, family, or even on a romantic date, this place offers a comfortable setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The restaurant’s ambiance makes it perfect for every occasion, from a relaxed lunch to a lively evening out.
The menu at Candela Restaurant is a testament to the creativity and passion behind the dishes they serve. It's a fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. One standout is their seafood selection, particularly the grilled mahi-mahi, which is always cooked to perfection and paired with seasonal sides. The flavors are bold, and the ingredients feel carefully sourced and thoughtfully prepared. Each dish is a piece of art, offering a true taste of Florida’s culinary scene with a modern twist.
Candela's menu isn't just about the main courses, though. Their appetizers, like the crispy calamari served with a zesty aioli, set the stage for what's to come. And for those who prefer a lighter option, their fresh salads, featuring locally grown greens and a variety of dressings, are equally impressive. Even the simple act of enjoying a starter feels special here, thanks to the attention to detail and quality that goes into every bite.
If you’re a fan of cocktails, you're in for a treat. Candela boasts a robust drink menu with expertly crafted cocktails, making it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a well-made drink to complement their meal. The bar staff is not only skilled but also passionate about offering personalized drink suggestions based on your preferences. Whether you're into classic cocktails or something more adventurous, you'll find something that hits the mark.
One of the most talked-about features of Candela Restaurant is its commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience. The service here is top-notch, with friendly staff that is both knowledgeable and attentive. They’re eager to ensure that you have the best possible experience, whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular. Their attention to detail, paired with the quality of the food, elevates the overall dining experience to something memorable.
What truly sets Candela apart is their dedication to maintaining a consistently high standard. You can expect fresh, delicious meals on each visit, with the menu regularly updated to reflect the best of what's in season. The chef's ability to balance flavors and textures creates dishes that are both satisfying and surprising, keeping diners coming back for more.
Additionally, Candela has become a local favorite due to its reasonable prices. While the quality of food and service would justify a higher price tag, it offers an excellent value for the caliber of dining it provides. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch or indulging in a three-course dinner, the experience is always worth it.
Candela is also known for its community involvement, hosting events that bring people together and celebrate the diverse flavors of Wilton Manors. Whether it’s a wine pairing evening or a special menu for a holiday, they know how to create an atmosphere where food, drinks, and good company come together to make lasting memories.
Located conveniently in Wilton Manors, Candela Restaurant is easily accessible to locals and visitors alike. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal, whether you're a local resident or just passing through. Its reputation continues to grow thanks to word-of-mouth recommendations from happy diners who return time and again for the fantastic food, excellent service, and warm ambiance. If you're in the area, it's well worth making a reservation and experiencing what makes Candela such a beloved establishment.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great wine list âś“ Serves local specialtyPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Happy-hour drinks âś“ Happy-hour food âś“ Organic dishes âś“ Private dining room âś“ Small plates âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ Quiet âś“ RomanticCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Transgender safe spacePlanning
âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ High chairsParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ ParkingPets
âś“ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
The best cuban food, we had lamb shank and stew with sausage, chicken and artichokes - such a rich flavor! We forgot we were in the US, so worth a drive! Great atmosphere and kind service.
My family and I were driving to Inter Miami match and I asked my wife to look up a nice place to eat. Well, this place is truly a gem!!! The staff and chef came to our table and wanted to make sure how we wanted the food made. My 7 year old and 11 year old were having a a difficult making up their minds so the Chef suggested a couple of dishes and bam wouldn’t you know it my 11 year old ate her entire food (which is something rare). The food was extremely savory. If you drive to this place and find the location not in accordance to the reviews please disregard it. You will not regret this choice. Portions were more than just right…generous. For a family of five the final was not bad either.
Candela Restaurant: A Fort Lauderdale Gem! My recent visit to Candela restaurant in Fort Lauderdale was an absolute delight, and I can't recommend it enough! From the moment we stepped in, the inviting atmosphere set the stage for a truly memorable dining experience. The food was, without a doubt, fantastic. I opted for the lamb with risotto, and both were prepared to perfection. The lamb was incredibly tender and flavorful, while the risotto was creamy, rich, and perfectly al dente. My friends, who ordered various paellas, were equally impressed, raving about the authentic flavors and generous portions. Every dish that arrived at our table was a testament to the kitchen's skill and dedication to quality ingredients. Beyond the exquisite food, the service was exceptional. Our servers were attentive, friendly, and remarkably efficient. Despite the restaurant being busy, our orders arrived promptly, and our needs were anticipated without us having to ask. This fast and polite service significantly enhanced our overall enjoyment. The atmosphere at Candela is also a major highlight. It strikes a wonderful balance between lively and intimate, making it suitable for both a celebratory dinner with friends and a more relaxed evening out. The decor is charming, contributing to a warm and welcoming ambiance that makes you want to linger. In summary, Candela restaurant delivers on all fronts: fantastic food, excellent and speedy service, and a wonderful atmosphere. It's truly a must-visit spot in Fort Lauderdale for anyone looking for a top-tier dining experience.
Amazing dining experience! Olives, marinated boquerones (anchovies), the octopus, the wine and speaking with Armando…awesome! Wine list is incredible! Staff is lovely and attentive.
This place is amazing! I’m so angry I didn’t find out about it sooner. It’s located across from the BLYSS apartments, very cozy inside. The skirt steak was so so good. Cooked exactly how I wanted and priced really fair. The paella was also great and also priced very fair. Good portions. I think we found our new spot!
My favorite dinner spot Tapas are amazing and wine is to die for !!!!!! Recently Celebrated my friends birthday here and it was fabulous
This is an amazing place, food and service was spectacular. They treat you like family. Atmosphere is like been in Spain . Thanks Armando and Yudaris.