Ft. Lauderdale

Will be going to Ft. La-Di-Da in May. Have been before, but it was largely an unsatisfying venture to fast food joints where I had no control of destination.

Anyway...looking for nice inexpensive place(s) that will satisfy three choosy teenagers. Thanks!

Kristi:
Heather and I were booked at The Sheraton Yankee Trader when Hurricane Jeannie forced us to evacuate to Key West (such a shame).
Before we left I confirmed that Primanti Brothers of Pittsburgh had opened a location on the beach.
Never got to go, but you could confirm their Ft Lauderdale address on their website.

Primantis does in fact have 2 locations in Ft. Lauderdale and one of them is open 24 hours just like in Pittsburgh's Strip District.

The 24 hour location is right on A1A one block south of Sunrise Blvd. The pizza is the same fresh tasting product that, at least for me, distinguishes a Pittsburgh pizza. And the same line up of sandwiches is available with fresh cut fries. Don't expect any frills here.

The second, more family friendly location is on the south side of Oakland Park Blvd, less than a mile east of I-95. This is a clean place with table service, lots of TVs for sports and the menu may even go beyond the normal Primanti's favorites. I was there last year and enjoyed the pizza. It should fit the bill for you.

Another place I always stop is Ernie's Barbeque, at 1835 S. Federal Hwy (Rt.1) just south of the intersection with 17th St. Causeway, on the west side of street. This place has a very laid back Key West type atmosphere. The specialty of the house is Conch Chowder served with thick slices of Bimini Bread. At lunch you can get a cup of chowder and half a barbeque sandwich (the pork is best, with a great thin sauce) for like 6 bucks. Big burger and heaping bowls of fries, with giant drinks. It's always my first stop upon leaving the airport.

Same owners as Ernie's also run the Floridian Diner/Coffee shop on Las Olas Blvd., maybe the 1200-1400 block or so, south side of street as you head towards the beach. Very informal, big portions at not big prices. Also 24/7 I think.

There's also an authentic Chicago style hot dog place, open weekdays for lunch mainly, on north side of Sunrise Blvd as you head from the beach to I-95. Name escapes me right now, but it's a bright yellow building with stone tables out front. They know what they're doing.

For breakfast you can never go wrong at the Original Pancake House, also on Federal Highway, maybe 2600 block north Federal on west side of street, north of Sunrise I think. Have the Dutch Baby or Apple Pancake. (See the Stern's review of one of the Illinois locations) Make sure your choosy teens are hungry when you head here.