Bobby Rubino’s

Another question about a business from the past that I hear no longer exists. Bobby Rubino’s. It has been years, but we really liked the food there.

Are there any places similar?

I’m sure we will find many different options- we haven’t been to this area in over 20 years.

Great question. Yes — Bobby Rubino’s used to be a well-loved rib-and-prime-rib place in Broward County, but the last location permanently closed in February 2022 after more than four decades in business.

A little background: the chain was founded in the late 1970s, and at its peak had many Florida locations. Its final restaurant — in Pompano Beach on North Federal Highway — shut down on Feb. 20, 2022. The building was sold, and a Raising Cane’s (chicken finger chain) is planned for the site.

So sadly, Bobby Rubino’s is gone for good. But if you're looking for similar-style restaurants now (places with good ribs, steaks, Italian-American feels, or old-school dining), here are some suggestions in and around Fort Lauderdale / Broward County:

• Bistro Mezzaluna — Located in Fort Lauderdale, this is a more upscale Italian restaurant. Their menu includes prime steaks, homemade pastas, and seafood, so if part of what you loved at Bobby Rubino’s was that meat + Italian-American mix, this could resonate.
• Casa D’Angelo — A classic Italian-American fine dining spot, with a long history in Fort Lauderdale. According to OpenTable, it’s one of the top Italian restaurants in the area.
• Il Paesano / Rossitto’s (in nearby Pompano) — While not in exactly the same style as Bobby Rubino’s rib joint, locals mention places like Rossitto’s for authentic, family-style Italian food.
• Tropical Acres Steakhouse — Mentioned by locals on Reddit as a “old-school” steak place with that vintage, hearty feel.