ETARU has garnered critical acclaim as one of the best new restaurants to open in South Florida in 2017.
Designed by Miami Beach�s Urban Robot Associates, ETARU Hallandale�s design revolves around its setting with natural woods and neutral tones.
The central robata grill is the beating heart of the restaurant and buzzes with activity making for an immersive, shared experience.
As the sun sets, the restaurant and indoor/outdoor cocktail bar comes to life.
Multiple reviews highlighted inconsistent and poor service, with instances of slow response times, unprofessional behavior, and lack of attentiveness from staff.
Food Quality
While some customers praised the food as fresh and delicious, others criticized it for being overpriced and lacking flavor, with specific complaints about certain dishes being subpar.
Atmosphere and View
The restaurant's ambiance and ocean views received positive feedback, with many customers appreciating the aesthetic and overall vibe of the dining experience.
Mixed Experiences
Customers reported a wide range of experiences, from exceptional service and food to disappointing visits, indicating inconsistency in the overall dining experience.
EE
elikpers
5 days ago
5.0
We had a wonderful experience at this restaurant. All the food was very tasty and beautifully presented. The view of the ocean is amazing and makes the atmosphere even more special.
Our waitress, Daniela, was very attentive and kind. She gave great recommendations and knows the menu and ingredients very well. We were dining with children, and she was especially caring and patient with them, which we truly appreciated.
Overall, great food, great service, and a beautiful place. We will definitely come back.
JF
Jorge Flores
Jan 1, 2026
1.0
Dear Management Team,
I am writing to formally express my disappointment regarding our New Year’s Eve dinner experience at your restaurant.
We made our reservation more than a month in advance, and at no point were we informed that the dinner would be based on a fixed menu. Additionally, the menu was presented as non-optional and did not allow for any substitutions or changes, even after we clearly communicated that we do not consume certain items included in it.
Our reservation was scheduled for 10:30 p.m.; however, we were not seated until 11:00 p.m. Appetizers were not served until approximately 11:40 p.m. Throughout the evening, there was a noticeable lack of organization and coordination in the service. The food was not served in the order outlined on the menu, and due to logistical issues, the full menu was never delivered to our table.
Despite expressing our concerns during the evening, there was no appropriate or empathetic response from the staff. Overall, the experience fell far below expected service standards, particularly for a New Year’s Eve event. The lack of communication, attention to detail, and customer care significantly impacted our experience. At one point, I had to ask three different staff members on separate occasions just to receive water.
We chose your restaurant expecting a well-organized and memorable evening, especially given the occasion and the advance planning. Unfortunately, that expectation was not met. I hope this feedback is taken seriously and used to improve future guest experiences.
Thank you for your time and attention. I look forward to your response.
JA
Jeffrey Aranda
Jan 1, 2026
5.0
I have been in fine dining hospitality for over 15 years and let me tell you the service I’ve received from Radames (Juan) was absolutely superb and one of the best I’ve personally ever received. The food was great, but the service is the reason I am coming back. Great job Radames, With the level of customer service that you hold i don’t see how you’re not a manager there. Anyway thanks for helping me bring in the new year in such a sophisticated and amazing way. I will see you soon.
SG
Syuzanna Gyurdzhyan
Jan 1, 2026
1.0
I rarely leave reviews, but this experience deserves one. We booked a table well in advance, expecting a smooth and enjoyable New Year’s Eve dinner. Instead, we arrived to find there was no table available for us. No effort was made to fix the situation, no proper apology, and we were left standing outside on what should have been a memorable evening. Our New Year was essentially ruined because of the restaurant’s lack of organization and care for guests. Very disappointing — I hope management takes this seriously and improves.
MP
Mark Petersen
Dec 31, 2025
1.0
Flight delayed coming into town on New year's eve. I called 5 hours ahead to try to cancel without a $75 cancelation fee. We were willing to come in the next day to try it out. It sounds like a good place. The reservation person said she would need to charge us. Even though they still had plenty of open tables (reservations available) in the evening's first seating (only two hour seating, not 4x hours like the second seating) . I feel like we wanted to try the food, but since they are being inflexible, we will not be supporting this establishment. Nor recommending they be supported.
Good luck through the tough financial times.
What type of cuisine does ETARU restaurant specialize in?
ETARU restaurant specializes in Japanese cuisine, offering sushi and other traditional Japanese dishes.
Where is ETARU restaurant located?
ETARU restaurant is located at 111 South Surf Road, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009, USA.
What are the opening hours of ETARU restaurant?
ETARU restaurant is open Monday to Wednesday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM; Thursday and Friday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM; Saturday from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM; and Sunday from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
How can I make a reservation at ETARU restaurant?
You can make a reservation at ETARU restaurant by visiting their website at http://www.etarurestaurant.us/.
Is there a menu available online for ETARU restaurant?
Yes, you can view the menu online at http://www.etarurestaurant.us/menus/ETARU-main-menu.pdf.
What is the phone number to contact ETARU restaurant?
You can contact ETARU restaurant by phone at +1 954-271-3222.
What experience can I expect from the design and atmosphere of ETARU restaurant?
ETARU features a design by Urban Robot Associates using natural woods and neutral tones. Its central robata grill creates an immersive, shared dining experience, with a lively indoor/outdoor cocktail bar especially vibrant at sunset.
Which nearby beach can I visit before or after dining at ETARU restaurant?
You can visit Hallandale Beach Oceanfront, located near ETARU restaurant, to enjoy the beach before or after your meal.
Are there any nearby spas where I can relax near ETARU restaurant?
Yes, Heed Spa Hallandale and eména spa are nearby options for massage therapy, skin care, and beauty treatments near ETARU restaurant.
What other dining options are available near ETARU restaurant?
Nearby dining options include Hyde Beach Kitchen & Cocktails and Terrazas at Lyfe Hollywood, offering diverse culinary experiences close to ETARU restaurant.