We've stayed at the Embassy Suites Ft. Lauderdale on 17th street, it's a beautiful hotel, very nice pool area and all the rooms have been remodeled. Included is a cooked to order breakfast and evening manager's reception with drinks and snacks.
We have a "family tradition" of going to Bubba Gump's every time we go there (we get a table outside on the patio, it's directly across the street from the beach and if you eat on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon around 4-5 pm you can watch the cruise ships leave the port and head out to sea).
You'll also be a short drive (30 min. or so) from Miami, I would definately recommend taking a drive down to Bayside Marketplace. Another great place to sit outside and have a meal (we like Mambo's cuban cafe) and watch the cruise ships and other boats.