Cooper's Hawk debuts new location in Galleria Mall

Fort Lauderdale's Galleria Mall may not seem like the ideal location for the elegant upscale chain Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant but it works. You forget you're inside a mall thanks to beautiful lighting and a nice expansive layout.

Navigating their large menu for both wine and food can be intimidating but don't fret, knowledgeable wait staff are there to help. Our server was great at suggesting the perfect wine and tailoring recommendations for our dinner according to our taste.

I chose the Asian Ahi Tuna Sashimi as an appetizer. The colorful dish and impeccable plating made me want to dive right in. The ahi tuna is served raw with a delicate ponzu-ginger vinaigrette, creamy avocado, crunchy radish and a hint of wasabi cream and sriracha to add just a bit of kick. So refreshing, light and satisfying.

Opting to keep the seafood theme going, the pistachio-crusted grouper called out to me as an entree. Served with mustard sauce, Mary's potatoes and asparagus, the delicate crust and sides were the perfect complement.

My dining companion Flavia chose the delicate gnocchi bolognese with braised short rib. Pillowy gnocchi mixed with tender short rib in a San Marzano (the best) sauce with salty pancetta, creamy burrata dolce and fruity extra virgin olive oil. I snuck a taste and it was delectable.

Our dessert choice came highly recommended by our server and since he'd steered us right all night, we went for it. The lemon ice wine cheesecake is their specialty and prepared with wine from their selection. The creamy goodness is topped with macerated berries and toasted graham cracker. It's a delicious surprise in every spoonful.

Reminding you again, take a deep breath when first opening the menu, it's quite large and can seem a bit overwhelming. Trust me though, rely on your server, it's one of the many pluses to dining at Cooper's Hawk. They won't steer you wrong.

Make sure to check out their artistan market and they also have a stunning tasting room for wine club members and their guests.

Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant at Galleria Mall, 2568 E. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale,754.755.9463