Christmas Day Brunch

Question

I have family flying into FLL Christmas morning, and after travelling since dawn- they will be hungry when they land around 9:30 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. I also called the Chamber and Visit Ft L; both vague. The latter has a loooong list of just restaurants with regular brunches that I am going through...but hope to hone it down.

Anyone have a recommendation for a unique nice 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 Christmas Day brunch spot near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) can be a bit challenging, since many restaurants either close or have limited hours. However, there are still some excellent options, particularly along the canals, rivers, or waterfront areas south of FLL, where your family can enjoy both a nice meal and a view.

Here are some top suggestions:

Sea Watch on the Ocean – Located in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, about 15-20 minutes from FLL. Known for its fresh seafood and ocean views. They usually offer a holiday brunch menu; reservations are highly recommended.
15th Street Fisheries – Situated in Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas area along the New River. Offers waterfront seating and a relaxed brunch vibe. A great spot if you want both a view and hearty options.
The Driftwood Yacht Club – Just a short drive south in Fort Lauderdale. Offers canal-side dining with a nautical theme and classic brunch fare. Small and charming; call ahead to confirm Christmas hours.
Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille – In Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Excellent seafood, outdoor seating near the water, and a more upscale brunch atmosphere. Check if they are running a special holiday menu.

If you are open to hotels, many resort hotels south of FLL may offer Christmas brunches with river or canal views, such as:

Pelican Grand Beach Resort – Pompano Beach. Oceanfront with a buffet-style brunch on holidays. Beautiful view, though pricing can be on the higher end.
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa – Oceanfront location with holiday brunch; reservations are necessary.
The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort – Beachfront with buffet brunch options; convenient for travelers heading south after brunch.

Tips for Christmas Day brunch planning:

Call and make reservations early, as Christmas is a busy holiday for popular brunch spots.
Ask specifically about Christmas Day hours; some places may open later than usual.
Consider parking options in advance, especially for Las Olas and beachside locations, where parking can be limited.
If a canal or river view is a priority, focus on Las Olas Boulevard or Lauderdale-by-the-Sea areas rather than inland options.

By planning early and reserving a spot at one of these waterfront locations, your family should be able to enjoy a relaxed and scenic brunch after their morning flight without resorting to fast food.