At The Floridian, you can dine any time of the day and stare at the photos of Marilyn Monroe, which the owner has collected over many years. (Photo by Stephanie Colaianni)

Scenario: You’re hitting the bars and clubs on Las Olas and, all of a sudden, you’re hungry. You’re sick of Denny’s and don’t want to go far. Recommendation: The Floridian.

This 24-hour food joint has been here for the past 70 years. Known for its omelets and half-pound burgers, you can’t go wrong with the ’50s-inspired diner.

The owner, Butch Samp, has a slight obsession with Marilyn Monroe. While you  dine, you can stare at more than 150 photos of her on the walls.

Homemade soups and chocolate cake, along with handmade milk shakes, can satisfy a craving.

In addition, many huge celebrities have been spotted there, including classic rock band Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler.

“I expect to see him in a couple of weeks when they come down here on their tour,” states Kevin Orr, The Floridian’s manager, about the band coming to South Florida on July 13.

The Floridian
1410 E. Las Olas Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
(954) 463-404

Liz Dzuro
Senior Photographer

Lester’s Diner is everything you would want in a classic diner. It looks just like it did when it opened in 1967, displaying the original sign and all.

“Home of the 14-ounce cup of coffee” isn’t what I would choose to brag about, because this place is your best bet to get a delicious classic or unique meal in the late hours of the night. Everything is homemade, like their huge pastry selection, and some ingredients are imported, like their Greek specialty selection or the imported boneless, skinless sardines.

The most popular menu items are the meatloaf sandwich and the Greek-style chicken. But sometimes the best thing is to dig into their pancakes at 3 a.m.

Lester’s Diner
250 W. State Road 84
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
(954) 525-5641

The double-stacked meatloaf sandwich is served on a fluffy bun with crispy fries and a side of coleslaw. According to the manager, Andrew Gregory, this is a favorite on the menu. (Photo by Liz Dzuro)