Christmas breakfast/brunch

Question

I have family flying into FLL Christmas morning, and after travelling since dawn- they will be hungry when they land around 10 am.

We have to head south from here, so I am looking for a nice place with a bit of a view (canal, river??) very near the airport or anywhere SOUTH of FLL to get them a nice breakfast or brunch.

I've called some of the nicer hotels, figuring they are open 24/7/365, but some are $$$$ or will not commit.

Anyone have a recommendation for a place to take them ?

(When they did this a few years ago, I found a lovely little bistro on a canal called Cafe Bastille, but it is to the north, and parking is hit or miss.

Suggestions?

(Planning early since this is such a difficult day/time for any restaurant to be open, and I don't want them to have to resort to fast food.)

Answer

Finding a good breakfast or brunch spot open on Christmas morning near FLL can be challenging, but there are a few options south of the airport that offer pleasant views and a nice atmosphere without resorting to fast food.

For a view near water and a relaxed brunch setting, consider looking toward Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach, where there are canals and waterfront dining. Some restaurants may require reservations, especially on Christmas, so planning early is key.

Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria – Located in Fort Lauderdale, this Italian spot offers brunch options and is near the New River. The vibe is casual yet upscale, and you can often get a table by the water. Check in advance for Christmas hours.
Oceanaire Seafood Room – Near the downtown Fort Lauderdale waterfront, with canal views. They serve brunch and seafood-centric breakfast dishes. Make reservations early for Christmas Day.
15th Street Fisheries – Located directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, it has beautiful water views and a relaxed setting. They often serve brunch-style breakfast dishes and are popular with locals and visitors alike.

Other options slightly inland but still convenient from FLL:

Rustic Inn Crabhouse – While primarily known for seafood, they do offer breakfast-style dishes and are on the water near Fort Lauderdale. Less formal but scenic.
Casa D’Angelo – Upscale Italian with breakfast/brunch specials; not directly on the water but very near canals and rivers. Worth considering for a special holiday meal.
Foxy Brown – A cozy brunch café in Fort Lauderdale with hearty breakfast dishes; not waterfront, but highly rated for brunch on special days.

Tips for Christmas morning:

Call ahead to confirm holiday hours, as some restaurants may open late or require reservations.
Consider booking a table as early as 10-10:30 am when your family lands to ensure they can sit right away.
Parking can be limited near waterfront locations, so check for nearby parking garages or street parking.

Overall, your best bet for a Christmas morning brunch with views would be 15th Street Fisheries or Louie Bossi’s, as they combine water views, brunch-friendly menus, and proximity south of FLL, avoiding the need to drive far north.