| 28 September 2009
Brevard’s most delectable delights. Places not to miss and places to come back to again and again.
Key:
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
North
American
Caribbean
German
Seafood
North-Central
American
Asian
Barbeque
Cafés
Caribbean
Continental
German/Austrian
Italian
Mexican/Tex-Mex
Seafood
Specialty
Tapas
South-Central
American
Asian
Barbeque
Cafés
Caribbean
Continental
Greek
Indian
Italian
Mexican/Tex-Mex
Middle Eastern
Specialty
South
American
Asian
British/Irish
Cafés
Caribbean
Continental
Deli
German/Austrian
Italian
Middle Eastern
Seafood
World
NORTH
(Mims, Titusville, Port St. John area, Port Canaveral, Cape Canaveral)
AMERICAN
Chops - A most welcome addition to downtown Titusville, Chops has an open bar plus inside and outside dining with a manageable menu that features beef and seafood dishes, like Cilantro and Lime Poached Salmon. 336 S. Washington Ave. Titusville, (321) 385-2467. D. $10-$25
Izzy’s Bistro - Stylish cuisine in an intimate setting, with emphasis on seafood; “Tuna Nights” take place Thursdays, with variations on tuna dishes presented. German food is the specialty Fridays and Saturdays. Otherwise, Izzy’s serves terrific dishes, beautifully presented. 6615 N. Atlantic Ave. Cape Canaveral, (321) 783-4548. D. $15-$23
Milliken’s Reef - One of the area’s favorites for nighttime recreation, waterfront Milliken’s has three bars, a dance floor of beach sand and terrific views. But it also has a diverse menu that includes chicken, pork, beef, and of course, seafood. 683 Dave Nisbet Drive, Port Canaveral, (321) 783-0100. LD. $10-$30. www.millikensreef.com
Moon Light Drive In - Step back into American pop culture at a genuine, old-fashioned, family-operated drive-in that has served Brevardians since 1964. The burgers are good and the milkshakes, better. 1515 S. Washington Ave. Titusville, (321) 267-8222. LD. Under $10
Ron Jon Surf Grill - The restaurant at the beautiful oceanfront resort outdoes most hotel fare, with wraps, melts and the entrees that include a Chicken Paillard and Cola-Barbecued Baby Back Ribs. Cape Caribe Resort, 1000 Shorewood Drive, Cape Canaveral, (321) 328-2830. LD. $8.99-$14.99
CARIBBEAN
Trevor’s Blue Toucan - Trevor is a trained chef capable of preparing just about anything, but here, his specialty is the authentic food of his native islands. Jerk chicken and pork are featured, as are specialties like oxtail and curried goat. 8501 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, (321) 784-5300. BLD. $5-$15
GERMAN
Pumpernickel’s - A family-owned standby in North Brevard, Pumpernickel’s is a bakery, deli and restaurant that serves everything from bacon and eggs to fine German and Austrian cuisine for lunch and dinner. The schnitzel is excellent, the wurst is outstanding and the bread, wunderbar. 2850 S. Hopkins Ave. Titusville, (321) 268-5160. BLD. $5-$20
SEAFOOD
Catfish Cabin - A taste of old-time, down-home Florida, with gator meat, frog legs, shrimp and catfish, as well as more modish fare like wraps and salads, in an unpretentious, friendly setting. It’s reason enough to drive to Mims. 2203 U.S. Highway 1, Mims, (321) 267-9533. LD. $5-$15
Corky Bell’s - A landmark, space workers’ favorite in North-Central Brevard, Corky Bell’s was feared lost forever after a devastating fire a few years back, but it has. Casual and comfortable, it specializes in fried seafood. 4885 N Cocoa Blvd, Port St. John, (321) 636-1392. D. $10-$20
Dixie Crossroads - Nobody except local fishermen knew what rock shrimp were before the Thompson family opened Dixie Crossroads, and it has become a landmark because of them. But the big restaurant is more than that, with fish ponds, a butterfly garden and outdoor bar, not to mention a diverse menu. 475 Garden St., Titusville, (321) 268-5000. LD. $8.99-$39.99
Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill - Spacious, friendly and casual, Fishlips is located on the water at Port Canaveral, with super views of departing cruise ships and other port delights. Pasta and steaks are served, as are a variety of seafood dishes. It’s a great place for the kids too, especially on the second-level deck. 610 Glen Cheek Drive, Port Canaveral, (321) 784-4533. LD. $13-20. www.fishlipswaterfront.com
Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar - The quintessential Port Canaveral restaurant for the flip-flop set: laid back, inexpensive and great fun on the water. It also has what maybe the best fresh fish sandwiches on the Space Coast and California rolls and ahi are on the menu, as are a variety of chowders and steaks. Grills also has live entertainment. 5050 Glen Cheek Drive, (SR 528) Cape Canaveral, (321) 868-2226. LD. $6.99-$18.99
Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar - The Fischer family has provided Brevardians with seafood since Port Canaveral was a sleepy little harbor and they owned one of its fishing fleets. Rusty’s, its waterfront restaurant, is famed for its shellfish and other fresh seafood offerings in a convivial atmosphere that includes dock-and-dine service for boaters. 628 Glen Cheek Drive, Port Canaveral, (321) 783-2033. LD. $5-$25
NORTH-CENTRAL
(Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, Rockledge)
AMERICAN
Ashley’s - Ashley’s presents a lovely means to catch up on a little of Brevard’s history and mythology, as the old, Tudor-style building is said to be haunted. It has been a favorite of diners and drinkers for years, with Angus burgers, steaks and otherwise, a mixture of all-American foods. It’s also casual, reasonably priced and a good place to watch sports on TV, if you’re so inclined. 1609 U.S. Highway 1, Rockledge, (321) 636-6430. LD. $9-$15
Bankers Tavern & Bistro - Located in a grand old bank building in Cocoa Village, Bankers serves a wide variety of wings, burgers, chicken and other sandwiches and salads, as well as entrees, all at reasonable prices. It also has two full-service bars and WiFi. 114 Harrison St. Cocoa, (321) 633-0121. LD. $5-$20
Coconuts on the Beach - This is where beachside residents come to dance, eat and drink, the restaurant being located where Minutemen Causeway turns to sand. It has live entertainment nightly, bikini contests and other attractions, but it also has an extensive menu with steaks, chicken and fresh fish. 2 Minutemen Causeway, Cocoa Beach, (321) 784-1422. BLD. $11-$25
River Roost Pub & Eatery - The food is good but the view is better, with outdoor dining on the Banana River and live entertainment at night. The place specializes in salads – you can build your own, with a choice of meat or fish. 1891 E. Merritt Island Causeway, Merritt Island, (321) 452-6606. LD. $9-$17.95
Gregory’s Steak & Seafood Grill - Long-established Gregory’s has Certified Angus Beef as well as fresh northern and local seafood in a venue that is footsteps from the ocean.. 900 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach, (321) 799-2557. D. $19-$52
Madison’s Courtyard - An intimate, modern American restaurant that specializes in quiches and substantial dinner entrees, with al fresco dining in the little courtyard that gives the place its name.170 N. Grove St. Merritt Island (321) 452-4797. Lunch, Tuesdays through Saturdays; dinner, Fridays and Saturdays. $16-$25
Mango Tree (The) - An eclectic setting with colorful dining rooms that are supposed to be reminiscent of a South Seas plantation, as well as a lovely garden, a saltwater aquarium and lots of antiques and collectibles, not to mention diverse offerings. It’s elegant but informal. 118 N. Atlantic Ave. Cocoa Beach, (321) 799-0513. D. Closed Mondays. $15.95-$37.95
River Rocks - The restaurant that replaced Chowders, an underachieving seafood establishment, has done very well indeed. The atmosphere has been redone to take advantage of the Indian River views, with a granite bar and modern décor. The menu is a complete re-do, with good effect: fresh fish, beef, chicken and duck prepared in inventive ways. 6485 U.S. Highway 1, Rockledge (321) 757-7200. LD. $16-$24. www.riverrocksrestaurant.com
River Roost Pub & Eatery - The food is good but the view is better, with outdoor dining
on the
build your own, with a choice of meat or fish. 1891 E. Merritt Island Causeway,
(321) 452-6606. LD. $9-$17.95
Shark Pit - Great, informal setting in the heart of the colorful, modernistic hotel and surf shop, complete with 40-foot “water wall.” The food’s not bad either, with stone-baked pizza and a good variety of sandwiches, salads and entrees. Sheraton Five Points/Cocoa Beach Surf Company, 4001 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach (321) 868-8952. LD. $7-$24
Surf (The) Bar & Grill (formerly Bernard’s Surf) - This truly historic restaurant has operated for more than a half century, having been a favorite hangout of astronauts and newsmen from the early days of the space race. It features a traditional menu with a good variety of fresh fish as well as beef, fowl and sandwiches. 2 S. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, 783-2401. LD. $15-$50
Ulysses Prime Steakhouse - Everything is excellent, but the porterhouse and Kobe A5 Ribeye Steak are spectacular, especially with Chocolate Demiglace de Veau. The lobster, fish and poultry are outstanding too. Reservations are a must, as Ulysses is one of those rare restaurants to which people will travel from afar. 234 Brevard Ave., Cocoa, (321) 639-3922. D. $24-$150
ASIAN
Yen Yen - Probably the best Chinese restaurant on the coast, with double-clothed tables and high-end-style service, though casual dress is prevalent. If you want original dishes like Shelley’s Chicken and Snow White Prawn, you’ll love it. 2 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, (321) 783-9512. D. $10-$30
BARBEQUE
Slow & Low Barbeque Bar & Grill - Located in the home of the former Alma’s, this restaurant features slow-smoked barbeque of all sorts, terrific onion rings, good turkey legs and excellent Tomato-Basil Soup. Steaks, burgers and entrees are good too. The Cush Lounge, which serves a long list of martinis and other specialty drinks, is adjacent to the restaurant. 306 N. Orlando Ave., Cocoa Beach, (321) 783-6199. LD. $6-$20
CAFÉS
Simply Delicious Café & Bakery - This colorful little restaurant on Cottage Row near downtown Cocoa Beach offers possibly the best quiche in the area, plus good breakfasts and lunches. It also is home of one of the truly great Sunday brunches, with lots of fresh fruit and homemade pastries. You can take baked goods home too. 125 N. Orlando Ave. Cocoa Beach, (321) 783-2012. BL. Under $10
T.E. Onion Café & Deli - This humble little restaurant offers something of a surprise: owners who formerly cooked at some of Manhattan’s better eateries. It serves a variety of breakfast specialties, omelets, soups, salads and sandwiches, all from-scratch, and the soup is excellent. 1980 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach (at the rear of the Cape Royal Building), (321) 784-9400. BL. $3.50-$8.50
CARIBBEAN
LaTinaja Cuban Cafe - Reminiscent of those great little cafes on Calle Ocho in Miami, LaTinaja is tiny and immaculate, with faultless service and all the good things you expect from a restaurant of its kind, complete with hot, buttered Cuban bread. It features plates of the day as well as everyday specials and wonderful side orders. 3815 N. Highway 1, Cocoa, (321) 639-1430. LD. $3.50-$10.50
Roberto’s Little Havana - Breakfast at Roberto’s is the norm for some of Cocoa Beach’s more prominent citizens (city hall is nearby), and though some people profess to be surprised by the high quality of the steak, the locals know. At its heart is Cuban-American cuisine, though; the palomilla is very good. 26 N. Orlando Ave. Cocoa Beach, (321) 784-1868. BLD. $8.00-$46.95
CONTINENTAL
Black Tulip - One of Brevard’s landmark, continental-style restaurants, the Black Tulip is newly expanded, but still serves a long list of popular lunch and dinner dishes, like the Grilled Steak Sandwich (lunch) and Veal Oscar. The Black Bean Soup is a local favorite too. The Tulip also offers Sunday brunch, and reservations are recommended. 207 Brevard Ave., Cocoa. (321) 631-1133. LD. $15-$22
Café Margaux - Café Margaux is much-honored and deserves it for creative touches with classic European cuisine. Desserts are excellent and the wine list is outstanding. Dinner reservations are recommended. 220 Brevard Ave. Cocoa, (321) 639-8343. LD. $20-$35
GERMAN/AUSTRIAN
Heidelberg - Lots of people know Heidi and Eddie Deleuil, owners of Heidi’s Jazz Bar, which is adjacent to Heidelberg. What lots of people don’t know is that the Deleuils are European-trained chefs and that their landmark restaurant serves super German/Austrian and Continental-style cuisine. 7 N. Orlando Ave., Cocoa Beach, (321) 783-6806. LD. $16-$28
ITALIAN
Alfredo’s Paradiso - The Alfredo of the restaurant’s name used to have eateries in New York, and now he and his wife have this inexpensive, immaculate little bistro that serves a great buffet lunch (including arrancini). The pizza is Northern-like, the sauce is homemade and the pasta dishes are very good. 217 Crockett Ave., Merritt Island, (321) 453-6119. LD. $5-$25
Cara Mia Riverside Grill - Located in a lovely, Mediterranean-themed building in Cocoa Village, Cara Mia serves traditional Italian fare and grilled specialties for lunch and dinner. Riverside Drive, Cocoa, (321) -3388. LD. $10.95-$20
Domenico Italian Restaurant - Domenico’s exterior may be humble, but its interior, like its food, is elegant. This is one of the best Italian restaurants in the area; think high-end attitude, minus the prices. The veal piccata is exceptional and the traditional Italian dishes are fresh and beautifully served. 3100 Fiske Blvd., Rockledge, (321) 635-8830. LD. $10-$20
MEXICAN/TEX-MEX
LaBamba - Formerly the bright, orange restaurant on the west side of U.S. 1, La Bamba now is the bright orange on the east side of U.S. 1: much more comfortable circumstances with the same good tacos, enchiladas, etc. 1257 S. Highway U.S. 1, Rockledge, (321) 637-9607. LD. $5-$20
Taco City - The likes of tacos, burritos and enchiladas are classic surfer fare, and at Taco City, they come in large amounts, as do local favorites like Chings, which are made of seasoned, shredded chicken rolled in pastry. 2955 S. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, (321) 784-1475. D. $5-$11
SEAFOOD
Fat Snook - Everything about it is inventive and original, from the décor to the dishes. Steaks, fowl and pastas are served, but seafood is the star of the show. Each meal is served with an amuse-bouche, a rarity in these parts, and the presentation of each course is as imaginative as you’ll find: food as art. Desserts, including homemade gelati, are exceptional too. Reservations recommended. 2464 S. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, (321) 784-1190. D. $15-$40
Lone Cabbage Fish Camp - This is “Old Florida:” rustic and extremely informal, where the water laps along the dock, the airboats whirr and the alligators are never far away. Dishes include gator tail, frog legs, catfish and turtle, as well as fried chicken and burgers. 8199 SR 520, Cocoa, (321) 632-4199. LD. Under $10
Pompano Grill - This intimate, unpretentious little restaurant is a hidden jewel, with fresh everything and real care taken with the food. Not surprisingly, seafood is the specialty, and what’s not fresh isn’t served; when it’s available, Tripletail Almondine is terrific. Pompano Grill does equally well with meat and vegetables, however, and service is excellent. Reservations recommended. 110 N Brevard Ave., Cocoa Beach, (321) 784-9005. D. $15-25
Sunset Café Waterfront Cafe & Bar - Boater-friendly and family-friendly, Sunset Café has a big covered deck and super views of the Banana River. Seafood is the specialty here, although Sunset also serves steaks, pastas, burgers and good, big salads. 500 W. Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, (321) 783-8485. LD. $8-$26
SPECIALTY
Brasas Grill - A churrascaria, or Brazilian-style steakhouse, meat is grilled en rotisserie and served from skewers at the table. Steak is the specialty, but surprises like hard-boiled quail eggs – they’re on the salad bar – abound, and other meats, like game hen and pork, also are grilled. 109 Brevard Ave., Cocoa, (321) 638-1338. D. About $25
TAPAS
Vintage 56 - Tapas probably is the best way to describe the cuisine at Vintage 56, although that may be a little limited. It’s very modern, with “casual elegance” and a menu just made for sampling, with all sorts of delights, including chops, cheeses, soups, salads, pates and pizzas. 200 Barton Blvd., Rockledge, (321) 639-4048. LD. $10-$25
SOUTH-CENTRAL
(Viera, Suntree, Satellite Beach, Melbourne S. to SR 192)
AMERICAN
Foreman’s Steak House - A casual, northern-style steakhouse where steaks are hand-cut; burgers, hand-formed; and hash browns, in a league of their own. 1940 S.R. A1A, Indian Harbour Beach, (321) 779-8980. LD. $15-$30
Grapevine Café/Green Turtle Market - A fine lunch restaurant attached to meat and specialty food retailer the Green Turtle Market, Grapevine is quiet, clean and comfortable, with outstanding salads, good sandwiches and top-rate entrees like Wild Flower Honey and Tangerine Ginger Grilled Salmon. 855 E. Eau Gallie Blvd., Indian Harbour Beach, (321) 773-2001. L. $8.50-$12
Little Phillies Cheesesteaks - Ever wonder what a real Philadelphia cheesesteak tastes like? Head to Little Phillies, which is as authentic as it gets in Florida. Other hoagies are available, too. Oh, and if you love the other Phillies, baseball is on when they are. 190 N. Highway A1A, Satellite Beach, (321) 412-8265. LD. $6.50-$11
Long Doggers Eatery - This is the surfer haven notably featured on the Food Network, and the hot dogs made here usually are identified as “Space Coast-style.” Doggers has all sorts of appetizers and snacks, salads and entrees, as well as frankfurters in various forms. 2870 Post Road. Melbourne, (321) 751-4448; 4260 Minton Road. Palm Bay, (321) 951-8884; 890 N. Highway A1A, Indialantic, (321) 725-1115. LD. $2.25-$8
Niki’s Family Restaurant - A Suntree standby for years, laid-back Niki’s serves Greek- style food in addition to old-fashioned comfort food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It has great daily specials too. 6947 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, (321) 255-0817. BLD. $5-$15
Palm Café (The) at Kiwi Tennis Club - If you’re not interested in tennis, so what? Kiwi is one of Brevard’s better restaurants, with innovative dishes, beautifully presented. It’s American-eclectic, with the likes of Korean-style beef & shrimp, grilled lamb chops with mushroom risotto and Royal Crusted Fillet of Chilean sea bass. 30 Tradewinds Drive, Indian Harbour Beach, (321) 779-3605. LD. $6-$30
Pineda Crossing Bar & Grill - It’s not for nothing that the owners call their restaurant the “casual gourmet,” because it carries the theme well. It is humble-looking (an ex-biker bar) on the outside, with eclectic décor (antiques, sporting equipment) within and a very broad, well-considered menu. 2515 Roberts Road, (Pineda Causeway at U.S. Highway 1), Melbourne, (321) 259-7760. LD. $15-$30
Pizza Gallery & Grill - Lots of interesting pizzas named after artists, plus a diverse selection of entrees served in a dining room decorated by local artists’ work. It’s a great place for kids too, with a separate activity area.
RendezVous Restaurant & Lounge - This restaurant, which is located in the Holiday Inn near I-95 and Wickham Road, was renovated several months ago and Chef Stefan Boehm is serious about his food, with American and continental fare, with homemade soups, pasta, steaks and fresh seafood. 8298 N. Wickham Road, Viera, (321) 255-0077. BLD. $10-$20. www.himelbourne.com
Squidlips Overwater Grill - Seafood, chicken, steaks, pork and burgers are oak grilled and the riverside views terrific at this restaurant, now a fixture at the edge of the Eau Gallie Arts District. The menu is extensive and eclectic, with offerings like black cherry pepper pork and seafood lasagna. 1477 Pineapple Ave., Melbourne, (321) 259-3101. LD. $10-$20
Tradewinds - The restaurant at the Duran Golf Club clubhouse is growing in popularity as its menu grows, and it offers an a la carte breakfast menu from 9 a.m. to noon weekdays. Duran Golf Club, 7032 Stadium Parkway, Viera, (321) 504-7776. BL. $7-$14. www.durangolf.com
ASIAN
Fujiyama - One of Brevard’s newer Japanese steakhouses, complete with knife show, Fujiyama offers sleek, low-key elegance and very good menu items and sushi, not to mention a nice bar. It’s also immaculate and relatively quiet. 5000 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, (321) 255-6633. LD. $16-$25
Hioki’s Japanese Cuisine - Many consider Hioki’s the home of Brevard’s best sushi, and if longevity has anything to do with it, they can’t be wrong. Hiyoki’s offers teriyaki, tempura, steak, fish and chicken dishes. Fresh fish is standard. 3360 U.S. Highway 1, Palm Bay, (321) 951-2710. LD. $10-$25
Orchid Bistro - A contemporary, pan-Asian spot that sets the tone with orchids on the table and carries it through with beautifully planned, prepared and presented entrees, not to mention colorful desserts. 3696 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, (321) 242-8429. LD. $10-$25
Red Ginger - One of the few upscale Chinese restaurant in the area offers elegance in the dining room and on the plate, with original cuisine like Grace’s Chicken (chicken sautéed with shiitake mushrooms, asparagus and carrot in white wine sauce). Chef selections are top-notch too. 6300 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, (321) 242-1167. LD. $9-$15
Siam Orchid - Low-key, quiet elegance and some of the area’s better Thai food and sushi, served in large portions. The curries are interesting and the Pad Thai delicious. Try the Sea of Love Roll. 75 E. Nasa Blvd. Melbourne, (321) 729-6383. LD. $9-$23
Thai Thai - Huge amounts of food and much-favored for its sushi, though entrées are available too, with daily specials. 2447 N. Wickham Road. Melbourne, (321) 253-2353. LD. $9-$15
Thai Village - Neatly decorated, quiet and laid-back Thai Village specializes in Thai food with a variety of good soups, curries and other specialties. Bangkok Duck is a specialty of the house: boneless meat, deep fried and served with a unique sauce. 1288 Sarno Road. Melbourne, (321) 259-0706. LD.
Vassana - Another purveyor of sushi and Thai, Vassana is a relatively new, stylish restaurant that ventures into the inventive (Strawberry Roll) and the traditional (Panang curry) with style. Bento boxes are available, as is Thai iced tea. 215 W. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne, (321) 768-0070. LD. $15-$25
BARBEQUE
Charlie & Jake’s Brewery Grille “CJs” is one of Brevard’s favorite barbeque restaurants, but it’s no rustic little hut. It’s a microbrewery-restaurant that serves a full menu that happens to include barbecued meat in various presentations. The burgers are made from Angus beef and the smoked prime rib is a specialty of the house. 6300 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, (321) 752-7675 LD $7-$22
CAFÉS
Blue Lemon Café - This bright, pleasant little restaurant has a certain French flavor, as traditional, egg breakfasts are served in addition to quiche Lorraine and a quiche du jour, and sandwiches include the Gallic classic, croque monsieur (toasted bread with ham and cheese). Eleven varieties of crepes are served. 1301 South Patrick Drive. Satellite Beach, (321) 777-3737. BL. $2.75-$8
CARIBBEAN
The Cuban Sandwich - If you like medias noches, ham croquettes, empanadas or any of the other delights found in casual Cuban restaurants, you’ll love the Cuban Sandwich. Dessert is good too, and the flan shouldn’t be missed. 142 Regents Court, Suntree, (321) 757-7345. BL.
CONTINENTAL
Dove (The) - The Dove is a beachside institution, famed locally for its homemade bread and Italian and continental-style meals. Veal entrees include a gigantic chop and Chateaubriand is a specialty. Appetizers like carpaccio and Clams Casino make a good start and desserts are very good. 1790 Highway A1A, Satellite Beach, (321) 777-5817. LD. $14-$70
La Placita - Another family-owned gem, La Placita offers Spanish as well as continental and American dishes. Service is impeccable, presentation appropriate and the atmosphere is intimate, with quiet music in the background. The Roasted Duck Breast with Grand Marnier and Raspberry Sauce is a staple and dessert is a must. Oaks Plaza, 1800 W. Hibiscus Blvd. Melbourne, (321) 725-1414. LD. $20-$50
Salt & Sweet Restaurant - Another hidden wonder – it’s located in a Publix-anchored plaza off Wickham Road – Salt & Sweet treats continental cuisine just as it does the Polish and other Eastern European food as it should: with loving care. It’s small, elegant and calm, and if you love authentic pierogi and blinis, as well as fine French and German-style fare, you’ll love this place. 3092 Lake Washington Road, Melbourne, (321) 259-5182. LD. $10-$25
GREEK
Grecian Garden Café - The family-owned Grecian Garden may be a typical, breakfast-and-lunch spot, but it also happens to offer what may be Brevard’s best homemade Greek food: souvlaki, dolmathes, spanakopita, etc. It isn’t fancy, but it is immaculate, and all ingredients are fresh. 2955 Pineda Causeway, Suntree, (321) 242-6373. BL, dinner Fridays and Saturdays. $3.50-$20
INDIAN
Taste of India - Authentic Indian cuisine on the buffet or from the menu, with great curries, tandoori and vindaloo prepared so that the spices do not overwhelm the meal. Butter Chicken is a local favorite, as is the nan. 606 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, (321) 751-4191. LD. $12-$30
ITALIAN
Abitino Italian Cuisine & Wine Bar - Residents of the Cocoa Beach area know how good Abitino’s pizza is – it’s authentic as you can get here – but they may not be aware that the restaurant also does very well indeed with traditional and original veal, chicken and pasta dishes. 2330 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, (321) 255-3123. LD. $6-$25
Amici’s Italian Restaurant - A casual family restaurant with a clean, contemporary look, Amici’s is no pizza joint, although it does a variety of pies. Specialty and traditional pastas are served, as are typical Italian meat and fish dishes. Sandwiches are good too. 7720 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, (321) 255-5377. LD. $5-$15
Amore Ristorante and Chophouse - Prime meat, fresh seafood and pasta are the stars of the menu in this new venue on the site of the former Primavera. 6300 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, (321) 242-8507. LD. $15-$25
Bacco Wine Café - The heritage here is authentic Northern Italian rather than American-Sicilian, with pork, lamb, beef, veal and chicken dishes amid intimate elegance. The Piatto Miso, or appetizer selection, is a highlight of the dining experience and the panna cotta is wonderful. 4100 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, (321) 259-3456. D. $13-$25
Cibelli’s - Unpretentious but clean and friendly, Cibelli’s offers pizza and subs as you’d expect in a good little pizzeria from the North, complete with “slice and drink” specials. It also has big televisions for sports-lovers. 1356 S.R. A1A, Satellite Beach (321) 777-3339. LD. Under $20
Melo’s Italian Ristorante - Melo’s is another beachside mainstay, a friendly little restaurant with classic ambiance and a classic menu. The tomato sauce clearly is homemade and creamy sauces are done properly, and portions are substantial. 1000 E. Eau Gallie Blvd., Satellite Beach, (321) 773-3555. D. $10-$30
New York Pizza & Pasta - This little, unassuming pizzeria owned by veteran Long Island restaurateur Curtis Flynn may serve Brevard’s best pizza. New York Pizza also has big salads and very good entrees, and what’s available depends on what Flynn wants to make, though some dishes are standards. 6450 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, (321) 253-0588. LD. $5-$12
Pane e Vino - Half of Pane e Vino contains good imported food products, with sausages and other meats hanging above the refrigerators as well as fresh bakery products like sfogliadelle and pignoli cookies. The other half is the restaurant, which does typical entrees, as well as pizza. 1800 W. Hibiscus Blvd., Melbourne, (321) 676-5499. LD. $7-$20
Tuscany Grill - Another restaurant that may be Italian but is no pizzeria, Tuscany Grill features a diverse menu with various seafood, meat and pasta dishes, including some unique offerings like Grilled Mediterranean, a sauce-free, spicy combination of chicken, fish and sausage. 7640 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, (321) 757-7220. LD. $10-$20
MEXICAN/TEX-MEX
DaKine Diego’s Insane Burritos - An institution among surfers, this quirky, friendly little restaurant is built over the former site of a miniature golf course, the kitchen a sort of shack at the back of the operation. It does surf grub – burritos, tacos, salads, etc. – very well, though, and even makes its own sauces. Keep your eyes open when you visit, because you never know which surf star you’ll see. 1360 Highway A1A, Satellite Beach, (321) 779-8226. LD. $3-$10
Fiesta Azteca - For years, many Brevardians have believed that Fiesta Azteca has the best Tex-Mex-style food in the area, and they really like its new location, where the former Durango was located. 6765 N. Wickham Road, Suntree, 255-2185; 2242 Sarno Road, Melbourne, 242-5966. LD. $6.50-$18.95
Francisco’s Mexican Restaurant - The former Cancun Café may have a new name and a new location in the same strip mall, but the food remains the same: good. It’s not a big venue, but it is inviting and the menu offers a lot of diversity with typical Tex-Mex fare, including what may be the best flautas in the area. 2447 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, (321) 751-3322. LD. $6-$20
La Cabana - This is one of those tiny hole-in-the wall restaurants that you could miss if you drive by its little strip mall, but that’s something you don’t want to do. The people at La Cabana treat the place as if were fine dining, with good table service by actual Mexican people, and they may serve the best chili relleno in the area. 586 Highway A1A, Satellite Beach, (321) 779-0190. LD. $5-$15
MIDDLE EASTERN
Cedars Café - Cedars is a delight: a hidden-away (in the Post Commons shopping plaza), nicely decorated little Lebanese-Mediterranean restaurant to which locals will drive miles for stuffed grape leaves alone. Other Greek-style specialties are on the menu too, and they’re very good, but the Middle Eastern food is outstanding. 4100 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, (321) 751-0000. LD. $10-$20
SPECIALTY
Melting Pot (The) - If you are fond of fondue, this is nirvana, with steak, lobster, tuna, chicken, vegetables and shrimp in a variety of cooking sauces/media. Then there’s dessert: more fondue, with white, dark and milk chocolate in various treatments. It also happens to be an immaculate, modern sort of place with a great bar, outdoor dining and good menu items. Go hungry and prepare to spend some time. The Avenue Viera, 2230 Town Center Ave., Viera, (321) 433-3040. D. $15-$30
SOUTH
(Melbourne S.R. 192 and south; Palm Bay, Malabar, Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, Indian River County)
AMERICAN
Captain Hiram’s - Don’t just dine and be entertained there, stay there: captain Hiram’s has its own, adjacent resort. It is laid-back and rustic, with a diverse menu that offers everything from burgers to lobster. 1580 U.S. Highway 1, Sebastian, (772) 589-4345. LD. $6.99-$30
Chart House - One of Melbourne’s great traditional-style American restaurants, with a wonderful river view, a menu that won’t disappoint anyone and a salad bar that most believe is the best in the area. 2250 Front St. Melbourne, (321) 729-6558. D. $30-$50
City Tropics Bistro - This is one of those places that is not precisely a lounge, but not precisely a restaurant, though it does well being both. It is a relaxed, popular after-work site that provides light foods, entrees, sushi, pizza and a Sunday brunch with flair. Appetizers like Hawaiian chicken, Mezza Luna (fried provolone) and panko-crusted fried brie are terrific, the sushi is very good, the Pollo Tropical is great and the Steak Mojito is a marvelous original. 249 Fifth Ave., Indialantic, (321) 723-1300. LD. $14-$20
Djon’s Chophouse - Djon’s is one of those restaurants to which you go to celebrate a special event or when you simply feel like a touch of elegance. If you go for lunch, you can get a Designer Kobe Burger, among other delights. If you go for dinner, prepare to order exquisite steaks, chops, chicken and seafood. Reservations are recommended. 522 Ocean Blvd., Melbourne Beach, (321) 722-2737. Lunch (Mondays through Fridays), Dinner (Mondays through Sundays). $18-$54
The Firehouse - Downtown Melbourne has long suffered from lack of a good, traditional steakhouse; the Firehouse extinguishes that need. Beef is the star of the menu, with everything from petit filets to 56-ounce porterhouses, but seafood, chicken dishes and touches of Italian add diversity. 923 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, (321) 327-7919. LD. $20-$30.
Mainstreet Pub - One of the area’s most popular places with young professionals, this bar (rather, building with a number of bars) pretends it’s not a restaurant, but its devotees say it has some of the best sandwiches and finger foods in the area, complete with fresh-baked bread. 705 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, (321) 723-7811. D. $5-$20
Red Rooster Café - This restaurant may be called a “café” but it’s very much full-service, with everything from salads and sandwiches for lunch to chicken Oscar and pecan-crusted mahi for dinner. It also has decent wine list. 5675 Micco Road, Micco, (772) 664-4065. LD. $6-$20
Scott’s on Fifth - Another top-list restaurant in the heart of Fifth Avenue, Scott’s is owned by a former actor and television chef who maintains a manageable menu with something for everyone, high-end style, in an elegant setting. The rack of lamb is a specialty and the Lump Crab Crepe, a delight. Reservations recommended. 141 Fifth Ave. Indialantic, (321) 729-9779. LD. $18-$35
Yellow Dog Café - Excellent food, great views, knowledgeable service and relaxing surroundings on the river: That’s the Yellow Dog. Owner Stuart Borton, one of the area’s great foodies, refuses to let the restaurant become static and so has introduced an outdoor, covered porch as well as new menu items. Food is American with a continental touch, with much use of fresh fruit and beautiful, but not over-the-top, presentation. 905 U.S. Highway 1, Malabar, (321) 956-3334. LD. $21-$40. www.yellowdogcafe.com
ASIAN
Daisen - Daisen is one of those Asian restaurants that never succumbed to the dinner-with-tricks notion, but sticks with sushi as well as a diverse menu that includes good tempura and panko-crusted seafood and chicken. It’s also informal and friendly. 3760 W. Eau Gallie Blvd., Melbourne, (321) 254-1050. LD. $10-$25
Haru Sushi Bar & Grill - Many believe Haru serves the best sushi in the area, and it certainly does so in a low-key, minimalist Asian ambiance. The list of appetizers is almost endless (gyoza is excellent) and the rest of the menu is diverse and pan-Asian, with Korean and Thai, as well as Japanese-inspired entrees. Bento boxes are available too, as is Donburi, or lunch-in-a-bowl. 3042 W. New Haven Ave. West Melbourne, (321) 676-5159; 1500 N. Highway A1A, Indialantic, (321) 725-6100. LD. $7.50-$30
Thai Thai II - This energetic little restaurant is an old favorite among sushi lovers, and it does well with Thai dishes. The curries are well-considered by frequent diners, as is the Pad Thai. Service is friendly too. 2324 N. Highway A1A, Indialantic, (321) 773-6144. LD. $10-$20
BRITISH/IRISH
Meg O’Malley’s - If you love things Irish, Meg’s is your place: A big restaurant with a bar with pub-style seating; football (the real deal, not that American gridiron stuff) on the televisions; and on weekends, men with guitars singing about how they miss the Auld Sod. It also has Irish-style fare, including a pretty good version of colcannon and an interesting, rosemary-scented stew. And on holidays – think “St. Paddy’s” – nobody parties like Meg’s. 812 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, (321) 952-5510. LD. $10-25
CAFÉS
905 Café - This is another quirky sort of place, a laid-back, casual seller of some of the best quiches and salads in the area, at which guests dine amid the antiques, seated at an eclectic mixture of tables and chairs. The menu is homestyle-original, with offerings like Brie Apple Nut Melt. It also has excellent coffee, tea and coffee beverages. 905 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, (321) 952-1672. BL. $3-$10
Blueberry Muffin - Famed for its huge, fresh-baked blueberry muffins and muffins-of-the-day, the informal little restaurant across the street from the beach also has a diverse menu with lots of breakfast and lunch choices. 1103 Highway A1A, Indialantic, (321) 725-7117. LD. Under $10
CARIBBEAN
Island Pasta Co. - This is a standby in downtown Melbourne, a casual, stylish place with indoor and outdoor dining and an innovative, Caribbean-flavored menu. The appetizers alone (Mojo Pork Tostones, Caliente Calamari, Island Seafood Cakes) would be enough to evoke curiosity and then a reason to return, and the pastas come with various curry, cream and tomato sauces, one of which, Island Style, is liberally sprinkled with toasted coconut. 903 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, (321) 723-1584. D. $10-$20
CONTINENTAL
Continental Flambé - A stalwart in downtown Melbourne, Continental Flambé attracts businesspeople for lunch and couples for dinner, with its French-style fare and intimate atmosphere. 936 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, (321) 768-2445. D. Closed Sundays. $26.95 prix fixe/ $22.95 a la carte
DELI
TooJay’s Original Gourmet Deli - For years, Brevardians have waited for Jewish-style deli and with the arrival of TooJay’s, they finally have it. Part of a Florida chain, it is not Kosher but has everything you’d expect, including huge sandwiches on the deli’s own bread, and super chicken and shrimp salads. Lots of entrees are available too – the char-grilled burger is in the running for best around -- and breakfast is excellent. The cakes and pastries are, well, killer. 1700 W. New Haven Ave., Melbourne (Melbourne Square Mall), (321) 369-0450. BLD. $5-$14
GERMAN/AUSTRIAN
Café Coconut Cove - Tucked away in a lovely beachfront spot on the site formerly known as Grey’s Landing is a lovely little restaurant owned by a family from the Rhineland. German cuisine dominates the menu, but with some fascinating twists, like Pineapple Melt Schnitzel. German beers and wines are available. 4210 S. Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach, (321) 727-3133. D. $14-$30
Edelweiss - If you like really authentic German and Austrian specialties, this is your place, a family-owned restaurant with wurst, pork dishes (including schnitzels) and rouladen made properly, stuffed with onion, bacon and German pickle. It has a great selection of German beers and wines too. 2543 S. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne, (321) 723-6555. D. $10-$30
ITALIAN
Andiamo Café and Bar Italiano - Andiamo is very modern, very stylish and very good at what it does: prepare and serve Italian-style fare, beautifully. It does pasta, of course, but it also does very well with veal, including Osso bucco, and fish. It also has terrific touches, like serving sparkling water and good, homemade bread with fresh light olive oil and high-quality cheese. 205 Fifth Ave., Indialantic, (321) 984-5045. D. Closed Sundays. $15-$30
Petrillo’s Italian Eatery - A lot of people believe family-owned Petrillo’s has the best – read “Northeast-like” -- pizza on the Space Coast, but its dinner menu is not all about pies. It has chicken, pasta and fish entrees, all of which come with garlic bread and salad. The chicken Milanese is very good and the eggplant Parmigiana, just as you’d expect it, well, up north. 960 N. Highway A1A, Indialantic, (321) 953-6888. D. $12-$17
MIDDLE EASTERN
Skewers Mediterranean Grille - This is a lovely, active, complete with hookahs, music and belly dancing. But that’s the least of reasons for Skewers to draw crowds, as it serves superb Mediterranean fusion cuisine. There’s seafood, including ponzu marinated ahi; four choices of kebob, not to mention other char-grilled meats; and really good Arabic-style dishes, including kafta and kibbeh. 144 Fifth Ave., Indialantic, (321) 727-8944. D.
SEAFOOD
Bonefish Willy’s - A Brevard favorite for years, Bonefish Willy’s serves beef, chicken, and (of course) seafood dishes in a casual, rustic setting alongside the Indian River Lagoon. The pineapple cole slaw is a local classic. 2459 Pineapple Ave., Melbourne, (321) 253-8888. LD. $4.95-$21
Coquina’s Seafood Grill - Coquina’s has the ultimate view for people who visit Florida: the Atlantic Ocean, with stemware and linen on the tables and a sophisticated, modern atmosphere. Seafood is the theme here, with seven choices of fish; or shrimp or chicken or steak. The Decke is available for more casual breakfast or lunch fare too. Crowne Plaza Melbourne Oceanfront, 2605 N. Highway A1A, Indialantic, (321) 777-4100. BLD. $19-$32. www.cpmelbourne.com
Islands Fish Grill - Islands is small and often crowded, for a reason: 11 varieties of fresh fish served daily, in various ways, as well as steak, chicken and shellfish. Each fish choice comes with creamy dill sauce or mango salsa, or it can be blackened with nut butter; jerked, with spicy beurre blanc; or prepared in parchment. Reservations are recommended. 111 Fifth Ave., Indialantic, (321) 956-0559. D. $17-$25
WORLD
Chameleon Fusion Bistro - European, Asian, Latin and domestic cooking styles in a contemporary setting, with classical, light pop and classical music on the piano, and interesting art on the wall and shelves. It is quite sophisticated, with the likes of Kissing Apricot Shrimp and Garden from the Sea. Risotto is the specialty, and it definitely is not traditional in texture or manner. 4990 Stack Blvd., Melbourne, (321) 728-8020. D. $12-$32
Lexi Martinis & Tapas - When chic Lexi opened, many of its customers came for the martinis and wines, which are very good and highly varied. Many of them keep coming because the tapas and sushi are so good. The place offers dozens of varieties, including the likes of Mini Beef Tenderloins Topped with Blue Cheese, and others with Middle Eastern, Hispanic and French influences. Desserts include Banana Foster Bites. 924 E. New Haven Ave., Melbourne, (321) 725-5394. LD. $10-$15. www.lexitapas.com
Matt’s Casbah - This is a colorfully innovative place with real art on its walls and really good food on its menu, which includes everything from traditional comfort foods to Asian-influenced seafood and sushi. It also has a terrific sense of humor, as witnessed by the subheadings on its menus. Reservations recommended, especially on weekends. 801 E. New Haven Ave. Downtown Melbourne, (321) 574-1099. LD. $15-$25
Tonic - Artistic, imaginative fusion cuisine like lobster beignets as well as phenomenal burgers, all from fresh ingredients, made on the premises and served in a low-key, contemporary atmosphere. 1906 Highway A1A, Indian Harbour Beach, (321) 622-8909. LD. $10-$35
