When December is upon us and you're still attempting to figure out where to celebrate the holiday season, it's worth considering options beyond the usual. Shooters Waterfront has been located on the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale since 1982, and honestly, they've figured out how to do the Christmas season right. There's just something about sitting by the local waters, watching boats drift by while you're enjoying fresh seafood and holiday festivities. It hits a bit differently than your typical restaurant experience, especially when you're making the season feel special without experiencing all the stress.

Making The Holiday Season Spectacular with Brunch with Santa

You know how seeing Santa usually goes, correct? You usually arrive at the mall, wait in line for what feels like forever with cranky children, then get two minutes for a quick photo and a hurried question before you're ushered along. It's not exactly magical. Shooters Waterfront does a visit with Santa in a much better way. They bring Santa in each Saturday in December before Christmas for their brunch service, and the whole setup works better at Santa's favorite Fort Lauderdale area’s restaurant than at the mall. Your kids actually get to speak with Santa, ask about the reindeer, and tell him what they want for the holidays—all while you're sitting at a table enjoying breakfast instead of standing in some chaotic line.

The brunch itself is also impressive. We provide bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys for the adults, while the unique Fort Lauderdale buffet features a variety of options from crepe stations to waffle bars. It's the kind of spread that allows everyone to be happy, which honestly makes the whole Santa experience even better. Parents can relax with a cocktail while the kids are genuinely excited, which is a big win during the stressful holiday season.

Where Holiday Dining Meets Waterfront Magic

Beyond the Santa Saturdays, Shooters Waterfront really leans into the holiday spirit with its seasonal dining options. Whether you're planning Christmas Eve dinner, a holiday party, or looking for a spot to toast the New Year, Shooters Waterfront has you covered with extended holiday hours and special menus. The dockside setting adds a little extra ambiance - imagine celebrating the holidays with boats lit up along the waterway and the Florida winter weather that actually allows you to enjoy outdoor seating.

The restaurant's been here for over forty years, so we've definitely figured out how to handle the holiday rush while maintaining the relaxed waterfront atmosphere. You can arrive by boat if it's your style, or take advantage of the valet parking, if boating is not an option for you. Either way, you're setting yourself up for a holiday celebration that feels both elegant and laid-back, simultaneously.