Which Pier Sixty-Six restaurants will open first — and when

What will a $1 billion makeover at the historic Pier Sixty-Six get gung-ho gastronomists?

Well, after more than three years of renovations — from the top of the tower to the dockside features — we now are getting some interesting intel: There will be nine restaurants throughout the iconic 32-acre resort, including Calusso, Sotogrande, Pier Top, Garni, The Nectar Room, Saltbreeze, Windows on 66, Pelican Landing and Elate Market Café.

And the first expected to debut on Thursday, Jan. 2, will be Calusso, with cuisine inspired by the French and Italian rivieras, according to Pier Sixty-Six. After that, the plan is to open four others on Friday, Jan. 10: Sotogrande (southern Spain and eastern Mediterranean fare), Windows on 66 (shareable bar snacks and curated vodkas and gins), Saltbreeze (poolside Latin cafe) and Elate Market Café (grab-and-go lobby venue).

“Restaurants are the heart of great cities, and our global culinary mission is principally focused on bolstering the talent of our esteemed team who places an unwavering commitment to creativity and craftsmanship,” said Charles Lewis, senior managing director of Tavistock Group, owner of the posh property, in a company statement.

Pier Top, the resorts signature and lavish rotating lounge rotating atop the 17th floor of the hotel tower, is scheduled to open in February, according to the resort’s website. Expect opulent craft cocktails, Champagne and wine, plus caviar, oysters and light bites/shareables, presented in a space with amazing views and a Googie design.

It’s all part of a gastronomic revitalization in Fort Lauderdale, says Colm O’Callaghan, vice president and managing director for Pier Sixty-Six.

“Our approach is to create a dynamic food and beverage epicenter that offers diverse experiences — from a sophisticated restaurant inspired by the joie de vivre of the French and Italian rivieras to a casual eatery bursting with flavors embracing its local roots,” he says. “We are proud to be a part of the city’s hospitality evolution.”

The waterfront resort destination along the Intracoastal Waterway got its name from way back in 1956, when the location started as a Phillips 66 Petroleum yacht marina with a fueling dock and gas station. Then in 1957 came The Pier 66 Restaurant and Lounge. The hotel opened in 1959, and the tower was added in 1965.

“This iconic venue has been at the heart of countless memories for both locals and visitors over the years,” Frank Serindat, director of food and beverage. “And we’re honored to bring it back to life.”

Pier Sixty-Six is at 2301 SE 17th St., Fort Lauderdale. Visit piersixtysix.com or call 954-525-6666.