FTL Today reader 'Neal', was kind enough to send some information and pictures for use on the blog.  To summarize:

-Trump Ft. Lauderdale Beach is getting landscaping.  By the tone of his comment, the landscaping might not improve the 'ugly' exterior.  I must say I do kind of agree.  The color of the building is a bit odd.

-Louie Louie Italian Bistro on Las Olas appears to be closed.  The sign says 'On Vacation'...but we all know what that means.

-H2O Restaurant on Ft. Lauderdale Beach...server was bitter over tips, but food sounded good.  The view - spectacular.  H2O is located at the Las Olas Beach Club Condo's.

-Locals special at Casablanca on Ft. Lauderdale Beach.

Lots of great information.  Thanks Neal!    See his actual e-mail below:
 

A previous post suggested work may have stopped at what has to be the ugliest building on the beach. Photo below taken on 090608 shows installation of Palm Trees in front of the Trump. Landscaping continues on a daily basis and I presume work inside is continuing.

Louis Louis on Las Olas has closed

Last time I was there the food was terrible (except for Pizza, Sunday Brunch and Pasta Fagioli soup). Our server wore dirty uniforms and had dirt under her finger nails. A victim of poor management and a tough economic climate. Their entree prices rivaled Casablanca's on the beach so no bargain for inferior food with no view. I hope their sister restaurant, "The Tuscan Grill" is doing better. The man working at the newsstand across the street said a replacement restaurant is in the works.
 

H2O

My wife and I ate at H2O on Ft. Lauderdale Beach on Thursday, August 28th at around 7pm. Only three tables filled inside, two people at the bar. The waiter complained that he wasn't making any money. My wife had stuffed salmon with crabmeat and I had the roast duck. Both were good and the view was terrific. Service was OK, a bit slow and we felt uncomfortable about the server complaints.

 

Overall we prefer Casablanca's but H2O is worth a try. Sorry, no photos.

 

Entrees without tip or cocktails came to $60.

**Casablanca's is offering a 2 for 1 special for local residents but you have to ask for it. Wish H2O had the same offer.