This small chain is based on the popular 'Forrest Gump' movie character.  Based on the name, I'm sure you can guess their specialty.  Yup..it's Shrimp.  Fried Shrimp, Boiled Shrimp, Shrimp Scampi...you get the picture.  The location is perfect for a seafood restaurant.  It's located right on the famous Ft. Lauderdale Beach strip right at the base of the newly renovated Marriott Courtyard.  There is both inside and 'patio' dining.  The patio is large and actually quite comfortable with the much needed 'water misters' and fans to keep you cool.  It's a very casual place.

   

We made it in for lunch at about 1 PM and we didn't have to wait.  We sat inside, but right by the large doors that open on to the patio.  Very nice spot.  Instead of getting 2 full lunches, we decided to get a few appetizers and split them.  We ordered the 'fried calamari rings' and the 'Shrimper's Net Catch' (shrimp steamed in beer with spicy cajun seasoning).  The service was friendly and very spot on as well.  We never had to ask for a soda refill.  (They do have a full bar as well.) 

There are a few interesting items on the table.  The first is a stand with 2 license plates.  One is Blue and says "Run Forrest Run".  (For those of you that remember the movie...it's a popular phrase.)  The other is red and says "Stop Forrest Stop".  Basically, they are used to signal ANY server that might be walking by.  If you are in need of a server...for whatever reason you flip to the "Stop Forrest Stop" sign.  It's a cute touch...but we never really needed to use it.  Maybe on ultra busy days, this would help.  The other interesting item is the specialty drink and dessert menu.  It's attached to a ping-pong paddle.  It's chained to the table...a smart move since collectors will definitely want to swipe one.

   

Our food was great.  The steamed shrimp were a bit messy, but they have extra paper towels on the table.  They were cleaned and left in the shell and the cajun spice was very flavorful.  They also have the beer boiled peel and eat shrimp in a garlic butter sauce as well.  The calamari were deep fried with a very light batter.  They were also served with fried pepporchini peppers and red peppers...a very nice touch.  The calamari rings were a bit small, but the portion was very generous.  The rings were also very tender.  Cocktail and a spicy chipotle sauce were there for dipping.  Oh...and we also ordered a 'Warm Chocolate Cookie Sunday'.  It's served in a small skillet with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce and nuts.  VERY good as well.

   
(right- Shrimper's Net Catch Cajun ; middle- Fried Calamari Rings ; left- Chocolate Cookie Sunday)

The overall prices are not that bad either.  Our check total was $29.97 plus tip.  This included 2 sodas with unlimited refills.  They also have a small gift shop with shirts and other 'Forrest' items.  Of course they had to throw that in.  This is the perfect place to hit when you are at the beach and you can't go wrong with the great fresh seafood. 


Jeff at Bubba Gump's Ft. Lauderdale



Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is located at:
429 Ft. Lauderdale Blvd.
Ft. Lauderdale Beach, FL

FTLToday's Restaurant Grade:  A
-Good food
-nice beach setting