Melbourne rests on Florida’s Space Coast, neatly bordered by I-95 to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. This vibrant city boasts a historic downtown, picturesque beaches, and an array of excellent dining establishments. Discover the culinary delights of the area with our 22-restaurant guide to Melbourne, FL, shared in alphabetical order.
Don’t miss out on these tasty eats!
Table of Contents
1. Backwater
Backwater is a vibrant restaurant known for its charming ambiance and unique dining experience. This rustic-chic eatery provides in-table griddles for a personalized cooking journey and serves breakfast and lunch all day. Delighting food enthusiasts with an array of Instagram-worthy plates, Backwater boasts clever and mouthwatering recipes.
Indulge in the Boss Hog, featuring provolone-stuffed rope sausage, balsamic onions, cheese grits, bacon, green onions, and a sunny-side-up egg. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever eaten. The Pulled Pork Benedict served on a homemade grilled biscuit and topped with hollandaise, is another favorite.
Exciting pancake toppings like cotton candy pieces, Oreo crumbles, Crunch bar pieces, and bananas will surely please those preferring a sweet breakfast option. Backwater does not take reservations. Visit their Downtown or N. Wickham Road locations.
2. Beachside Cafe
Beachside Cafe, located at 109 5th Ave in Indialantic, is a hidden gem renowned for its low-key yet popular breakfast offerings, including a wide selection of salads and sandwiches. The cafe exudes a laid-back surfer vibe and boasts an enticing menu.
The omelets, pancakes, and biscuits with gravy are excellent, but the true stars are the delicious sandwiches and flavorful side dishes. The meat is expertly rolled into the soft and fluffy bread, while the pasta salad bursts with rich flavors.
Beachside Cafe is the ultimate choice for a classic and satisfying meal. Please note that the cafe is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays but is open from 7 AM to 2 PM on all other days.
3. Bizzarro Pizza
Bizzarro Pizza, on the waterfront in West Melbourne, offers authentic New York-style stuffed, specialty, and Sicilian style pizza that melts in your mouth. Their pizza is crispy and perfectly baked, with about 15 topping to choose from. The menu includes pasta dishes, salads, subs, and calzones, while the tasty garlic knots are a locals’ favorite.
With a laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, Bizzarro Pizza is perfect while enjoying beach festivities, catching up with a friend, celebrating a milestone, or just about any occasion. They offer quite a few varieties by the slice, with stuffed spinach and chicken broccoli being our favorites. Gluten-free pizza is also available.
Bizzarro is closed on Sundays.
4. The Burger Place
The Burger Place is a must-visit spot for any burger enthusiast. Locals rave about their juicy, perfectly cooked beef burgers piled high with toppings. Their signature “Bronson Burger” is a fan favorite, made with provolone, grilled onions and mushrooms, bacon, A1, mayo, and BBQ sauce.
Burger Place also offers veggie burgers and chicken sandwiches for those not in the mood for high-grade ground beef burgers. Their casual atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a great spot for families. Drink options include beer, soda, tea, and milkshakes. I am a fan of the soft drink station with unlimited refills.
The Burger Place is closed on Sundays.
5. Cafe Coconut Cove
Cafe Coconut Cove in Melbourne Beach offers a surprising and romantic atmosphere. This authentic German-forward eatery features waterfront dining, a screened patio, and mouthwatering appetizers. Indulge in the delightful homemade liver pate served with crackers, grilled bread, onions, peppers, and pickled veggies. The Potato Pancakes are another delectable choice, accompanied by sour cream and apple cranberry compote.
For the main course, the Jaeger Schnitzel is simply unbeatable. Customize your side dishes; mine were spaetzle and Brussels sprouts. Don’t miss out on the divine Black Forest Cake. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 4 to 9 PM.
6. Crush XI
Crush XI boasts an attractive happy hour at the bar and seating areas from 4 to 6 PM Tuesday through Friday. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Crush XI offers a beautifully styled restaurant with an original look.
The menu is brimming with Southern favorites, like Burrata with tomato jam and grilled sourdough and Medjool Dates with Millionaire’s bacon, goat cheese, and a red wine gastrique. These dishes are so rich and sweet that they feel like desserts. Crush Eleven is the sister restaurant of The Fat Snook in Cocoa Beach. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
7. Cryderman’s Barbecue
If you’re in the mood for some mouth-watering barbecue, Cryderman’s Barbecue is the place to go. Known for its slow-smoked meats, this restaurant offers everything from Cheshire pulled pork and brisket to turkey breast, sausage links, and spare or baby-back ribs.
Let the Texas Two-Step Sandwich blow your mind if you have a hearty appetite. Cryderman’s signature sauce perfectly complements their tender meats, making for a delicious meal. Customers also rave about their sides, such as mac and cheese and collards, but my favorite is the Parmesan-Dill Potato Salad.
8. El Ambia Cubano
El Ambia Cubano is an exceptional Cuban eatery by the waterfront in Melbourne. This festive and charming establishment has been delighting customers since 2009. Its patio and parking lot dining options are highly sought after, but there is indoor seating. The MediaNoche sandwich and Yuca fries are absolutely delicious, but take advantage of the incredible pineapple upside-down cake and rum bread pudding for dessert.
The prices at El Ambia Cuban are just right, and the alcoholic beverages are impressive, though a strong Cortadito remains my favorite.
9. FM Pizza Oven
FM Pizza, housed in a historic bank building in the darling Eau Gallie Arts District, serves incredibly delicious hand-tossed pizza. Starting as a local wood-fired food truck in 2015, FM Pizza is now a vibrant and colorful restaurant. The inside of the restaurant features captivating decor, including noteworthy bathrooms.
The Meat Lover’s pizza, topped with ham, pepperoni, sausage, and bacon, is a personal favorite. Try unique creations like the 5 Pepper Pie or Muffuletta with olive tapenade for more adventurous tastes. Choose from an impressive selection of fine wines or refreshing cold beers to complement your meal.
Don’t miss their delectable wood-baked brie or the mouthwatering wood-fired Shishito Pepper tapas.
10. Frigate’s Waterfront Bar
Frigate’s Waterfront Bar is famous for seafood lovers, special occasions, or family meal nights. The restaurant has a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere and is one of the top restaurants in Melbourne. Situated on the Eau Gallie River, Frigate’s offers stunning views over a multi-level outdoor space (and a couple of indoor options) and a fresh seafood-focused menu. You can also arrive by boat.
Their crab cakes are standout, made with jumbo lump crabmeat and a remoulade sauce, though I prefer the Beef Carpaccio. Voted one of the best sandwiches in South Florida, Frigate’s Macadamia & Coconut Grouper Sandwich with mango chutney and Bermuda onions is off-the-charts fantastic. And did I mention they have a sushi menu, too?
Come for Sunday brunch, 9 AM to 1 PM, for an amazing buffet with omelet and waffle stations, salads, soups, sushi, pasta, a raw bar, traditional breakfast faves, and a dessert bar. The price is around $32 for adults.
11. Hell ’n Blazes Brewing Company
Hell ‘n Blazes Brewing Company is a brewery and a fantastic restaurant housed in a comfortable 120-year-old former hardware and farm supply store. Their menu features elevated pub fare, but what really sets them apart is their extensive beer selection, with many craft beers on tap and a full cocktail menu.
I’m gaga for their buffalo chicken dip and signature candied bacon, but they make a mean charcuterie board. For something more substantial, try the blackened chicken linguine or a burger. Congrats to Hell ‘n Blazes for being the runner-up for Best Small Brewery in the State. They also feature live music and special events, making it a fun spot for a night out with friends.
12. Hemingway’s Tavern
Hemingway’s Tavern offers a unique location, deviating from the usual Melbourne restaurant spots. It specializes in authentic Cuban cuisine that is both flavorful and expertly prepared. If the Caribbean black bean soup or Cuban sandwich doesn’t pique your interest, I recommend the Yard Bird on a Stick – juicy chicken skewers infused with island spices and an avocado-lime dipping sauce.
The Havana Burger boasts mojo pork, jalapeños, guava jalapeño aioli, rum-glazed onions, and melted Swiss for alternative options. Caffeine enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on a Cortadito or Cafe con Leche.
As a proud recipient of the top spot on Trip Advisor in Melbourne, Hemingway’s is a culinary gem not to be missed. To finish off your meal, indulge in a slice of guava cheesecake. Weekend brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM.
13. Ichabod’s Dockside & Grill
We dined at Ichabod’s Dockside Bar & Grill, an undiscovered treasure in Melbourne. With its indoor and outdoor seating, locals favor this popular establishment. We enjoyed stunning waterfront views and a mesmerizing sunset. For a delightful starter, try the flavorful New England Clam Chowder.
I opted for the Peppercorn-Crusted Beef Filet Appetizer, featuring succulent beef drizzled with a delectable melted blue cheese sauce. It was a superb choice. My husband thoroughly enjoyed the Crispy Potato-Encrusted Grouper, served with a sweet Thai-chili sauce and scallions. Without a doubt, I highly recommend visiting this establishment again and again.
Pro Tip: Lunch is served daily between 11 AM and 5 PM, offering substantial discounts on exceptional meals.
14. KeKe’s Breakfast Cafe
KeKe’s Breakfast Cafe in Florida is the ultimate destination for breakfast and brunch. With numerous locations across the country, it has gained popularity among locals and tourists. Renowned for its exceptional food quality and tantalizing dishes, KeKe’s offers an extensive menu featuring a variety of options from waffles, French toast, and pancakes to savory eggs, bowls, and omelets.
Noteworthy menu items include the Banana Nut Waffle, Turtle Nut French Toast, Eggs Benedict, and Scrambler Bowl. KeKe’s has mouthwatering burgers, ciabatta pressed paninis, and fresh salads for a satisfying lunch. Open daily from 7 AM to 2:30 PM, KeKe’s is the go-to establishment for a remarkable dining experience.
15. Long Doggers
Long Doggers is a must-visit if you’re looking for a “radically relaxed” spot with great food and drinks. This beach-themed restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere and a breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu filled with classic American fare. Their extra-long hot dogs, clam chowder, and ahi tuna poke bowls are customer favorites.
For a unique dish, try the Tico Pico Bowl, Mojo pulled chicken or pork over black beans and jasmine rice, drizzled with Costa Rican Lizano sauce, topped with fresh pico, fried sweet plantains, and spicy ranch.
Long Doggers also has a great selection of beers and cocktails, making it the perfect spot for happy hour (2 to 6 PM Monday through Friday). I don’t know of a more extensive menu in the Melbourne area than this one.
16. Mainstreet Pub
Mainstreet Pub offers a more upscale dining experience, with a menu featuring gourmet burgers, salads, and entrees. They also have three different dining areas, based on your mood and desire. Start your dining experience with beef or chicken wonton wrappers; I prefer the Chicken ones with curry seasoning, mushrooms, peppers, garlic, onions, and cheddar jack cheese filling.
For main courses, the choices range from gourmet flatbreads to salads and sandwiches. An original choice is the Weck’d flatbread, with roast beef, mozzarella, and horseradish aioli sauce on a garlic & caraway seeded crust.
Mainstreet Pub is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
17. The Mansion
The Mansion is a two-story venue with really good food, drinks, service, and menu choices. While I haven’t been there personally, my daughter loves it and swears by their Lobster Roll and Ahi Tuna Tacos. You can dine on the second story for epic views and gorgeous scenery, all the while sipping a cocktail or glass of beer because it truly is 5 o’clock somewhere.
18. Meg O’Malley’s
Meg O’Malley’s is a renowned Irish restaurant in Historic Downtown Melbourne, Florida. With its recent renovation, the enthusiasm among regulars is palpable. Serving delectable Irish pub grub and an extensive beer selection, this establishment ensures a darned good time.
O’Malley’s offers enticing appetizers like Sausage Rolls, Potato Balls (mix of mashed potatoes, corned beef, scallions, and cheddar), or Cheese & Ale crock (Smithwick’s Ale, cheddar, and Dubliner), accompanied by assorted breads. The menu features iconic Irish dishes, like Bangers and Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, Fish & Chips, and Corned Beef and Cabbage. Each dish is expertly prepared, hearty, and generous in portion size.
Don’t miss the must-try 18-cent Parliament Bean soup for a truly authentic taste.
Pro Tip: Don’t fight the traffic on E New Haven. Meg O’Malley’s has free parking and an entrance in the back.
19. Mulberry Lane Cafe
Mulberry Lane Cafe serves breakfast and lunch, offering a delightful array of dishes. The menu features gorgeous Benedicts, creative pancake options, omelets, burritos, bagels, and more. The Greek Benedict with added gyro meat is delightful, while the Asparagus Benedict with roasted red peppers, bacon, and provolone is exceptionally delicious. The eggs are perfectly poached, and the hollandaise has a light yet tangy flavor.
One of the newest additions to the menu is the Huevos Rancheros Benedict on a tortilla with refried beans, chorizo, cheddar, tomatoes, and, of course, the poached eggs and house hollandaise. Avocado and salsa are the perfect accompaniments.
With breakfast served all day, you can’t miss out on this restaurant’s exciting culinary experience! Please note that Mulberry Lane Cafe is closed on Tuesdays.
20. Mustard’s Last Stand
Mustard’s Last Stand in Melbourne is a must-visit eatery! Their hot dogs and fries are incredibly tasty, taking your taste buds on a delightful journey. The menu boasts unique combinations like the Yankee Dog (NY onions, Swiss, brown mustard, fresh garlic), Pittsburgh (mustard, onions, slaw, and fries), Hollyweird (cream cheese, NY onions), and my personal favorite, the Joe Dogmaggio (marinara, bacon, Swiss, parm).
Since 1987, they have been serving these delectable treats on a sizzling sesame seed bun, and you can even swap the beef dog for veggie or turkey without any extra charge. Take advantage of their mouthwatering onion rings and the irresistible Island Fries or Firecracker Fries (sriracha, cheese, garlic).
21. Squid Lips
Featuring one of Melbourne’s premier patios, Squid Lips offers a vibrant and delightful dining experience on the scenic Intracoastal. This colorful restaurant boasts a diverse menu of seafood, American dishes, salads, and burgers.
Indulge in the unique Coconut Onion Chips dipped in rum batter, or savor the delectable green onions. While no longer on the menu, the jambalaya with shrimp, sausage, and chicken was a personal favorite. Other exceptional starters include the Cajun Bacon Wrapped Scallops and Blue Cheese & Balsamic Tater Chips, though they come at a higher price point.
Explore refreshing poke bowls or mouthwatering fried seafood baskets for the main course. Aside from the flagship location, Squid Lips has two additional establishments in Cocoa Beach and Sebastian.
22. Yellow Dog Cafe
Yellow Dog Cafe, known for its scratch-made dishes, homemade bread, and fabulous desserts, offers fine dining in multiple dining rooms and a covered patio with a scenic waterfront view. Stars on the locally-owned gem’s menu include Crab Bisque (with an adorable dog-shaped cracker), New Zealand Rack of Lamb, and Pecan-Crusted Mahi Mahi with a vanilla praline sauce, one of the tastiest dishes I’ve ever had.
Their award-winning bread pudding with cherries and chocolate chips, covered in a bourbon whiskey sauce, is a must-try dessert.
Customers rave about Yellow Dog’s attentive service and romantic atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a special occasion, a romantic date night, or just a night you want to eat something magnificent or not cook. Yellow Dog Cafe offers complimentary valet parking.
Melbourne’s Best Restaurants Aim to Please
Melbourne, Florida has no shortage of great restaurants, whether you’re in the mood for burgers, barbecue, seafood, or pizza. From casual spots to fine dining, there’s something for everyone.
Read more of our Florida posts here:
50 Florida Restaurants with Patios and Outdoor Dining
Tasty Restaurants in Fort Myers (and Neighboring Towns) You’ll Want to Try