Ernie’s BBQ becomes Andy’s Live Fire Grill & Bar in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
by Randi Barry
You may have noticed the old orange of Ernie’s BBQ on US 1 has been replaced with a sleek new white exterior. The old Fort Lauderdale mainstay has been purchased by Anthony Bruno, the very same who started Anthony’s Runway 84 with his late father and co-founded Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza. Now Anthony is bringing his expertise to this new location in the form of Andy’s Live Fire Grill & Bar. This is the first Santa Maria style grill in all of Florida, giving Fort Lauderdale’s crowd a chance to experience this West Coast style cuisine first. With a chic, sophisticated and lively vibe, complemented by attentive service, great Happy Hour specials and a fresh menu, you will want to hail an Uber or Lyft and go check it out for yourself.
Santa Maria Style Barbecue at Andy’s
This regional culinary tradition is rooted in the Santa Maria Valley in Santa Barbara County located on the Central Coast of California. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this method of barbecue is today regarded as the mainstay of California’s culinary heritage.
Barbecue Bliss at Andy’s Live Fire
Andy’s is bringing new a life and vibe into the yachting hub of 17th and US1 in Fort Lauderdale. We dined on a Thursday night and were pleased to use their valet service (only $2!). Upon entering we were greeted and seated in the downstairs semi-formal dining area. The modern tones and Live Fire open kitchen in the background give it an upscale vibe matched with luxe decor and floor to ceiling visible wine racks. Darren our waiter was super informative and attentive – advising us on the best the menu had to offer. With many options across the board, including great wines by the glass, we decided to try a glass of the baby Amarone (my favorite) to pair with our roasted red pepper & fire grilled flatbread amuse-bouche.
We spotted the Potuine right away in the starters – as a home grown Canadian, I had to order it. It was Poutine to the max. Andy’s really taken it to the next level with their steak or chicken addition (I chose steak). Our main of skirt steak from the Live Fire Grill was well presented and cooked perfectly. This is an easy place to go and share a couple of starters and then dig into the Santa Maria Grill options.
While downstairs is a semi-formal dining area – the grassed rooftop terrace has a more casual vibe. They host live music that is interactive and engaging and their cocktails are original and delicious. I particularily love their Belini and think it’s the best one I’ve had yet! Inside upstairs they also have a sport lounge area that can double for casual meetings or host viewing parties.
If you are looking for a new spot to grab after work drinks and bites that is well out of the Las Olas traffic or beach front tourist traps – we highly recommend you give Andy’s a try.
Happy Hour Specials at Andy’s Live Fire Grill & Bar
Head upstairs Monday to Friday from 4pm until 7pm to enjoy $7 well drinks, $7 glasses of wine and 7 Oysters for $7. Stay up to date with their latest specials and Brunch announcement by giving them a follow on Facebook. Click here to learn more.
