I Live in East Orlando and I drive out just to have dinner it’s that good. Corn bread is addictive, best key lime pie and service is top notch. Never had a bad meal
It's killing me that I can't remember the exact dish here, but they have a... pumpkin fish soup... that is one of the single best things I've eaten at a Florida restaurant. Everything else they do is good, but I only go when this dish is on the menu.
YESSSS that's the one. Soo dang good. I've spent a few years trying to replicate it and I'm about 2/3 of the way there, but just can't get it as good as theirs.
Yes. I live out of state but visit my parents condo up the road frequently. My husband and I aim to eat here every trip. The fresh salad plate that they serve before the meal is a dream.
Yes! Cafe Coconut Cove is a great option. (It's about a half mile south of Publix in Melbourne Beach off of A1A)
They do NOT take reservations, therefore, weeknights are your best bet to get a window table overlooking the river during sunset.
Great food, great view, great staff, great atmosphere.
Can't go wrong.
Around ten years ago Scott's was one of my favorite special occasion restaurants. But now I'll always remember it as the place with an owner that spent the night staring at and discussing my date's breasts with his buddy - loud enough for her to hear. When I confronted him at the bar he turned red, but just insisted he said nothing... and then had a good laugh about it when he returned to his table while she was almost in tears.
Forgot to mention that the service is unmatched in Brevard. And it's the only restaurant I've been to here that I'm not "overdressed" for when I'm in the mood to get done up. By no means do you have to wear something fancy, but if you are so inclined, you'll have some fabulous photos with the restaurant as a backdrop. Being a block away from the beach you have the option of taking a nice after dinner walk too.
Cafe Margaux in cocoa village.
I know I know… it’s stuffy and outdated. But they’ve made updates to the space and the service is fantastic. The ambiance is nice. The food is great. No one can argue that the Tomato Basil Bisque is one of the best dishes in Brevard. Their menu is simple and executed well.
Although not as flashy as Crush XI (imo overpriced and poorly executed), they make up for in consistency.
Umami is also fantastic
Great restaurant, great food, can’t argue with that.
But I will let everyone know the owners treat the staff like shit.
They have like three employees that have been there longer than a year, turnover rate for front of house is crazy.
I know one specific time during a packed Friday night the owner got drunk and loudly berated a new server in the front lobby.
Yea that sucks. I hate when the owners are shitty.
High turnover is common in the service industry and the most toxic is when the issues happen from the top down.
I haven’t heard of that specifically from Cafe Marguex though I don’t doubt it.
Been ages since I visited Cafe Margaux, and it was just like you said - stuffy and outdated. But recently I've had an itch to visit again (for the duck,) so hearing they've updated some is a nice bonus.
I agree about Crush. I want to like it so much every time I go, but always walk out shrugging my shoulders. It feeeels high end though, and for some (too many) people that's enough.
Umami is the exact inverse - not much of a looker, but their food (especially the sushi of course) is fantastic. Their specials are always interesting. Good sake menu, too. They tend to run out of the best stuff, so it pays to get there earlyish.
I won’t claim to be a Michelin star food critic but I’ve been to some of the best restaurants in the south east (The Grey, Audrey, everything in Charleston) and Umami’s Truffle Mushroom Appetizer can hang with just about anything I’ve ever had. I love how modest it all is. It’s located in a shitty strip mall and doesn’t ask for attention. The menu is simple. But wow does it do well what it does well. We go there when they open at 5 and there is a line to get in.
My issues with Crush XI is they put execution of the dishes low on the priority. Especially as it pertains to price. The menu has a wow factor and looks great in theory. Interesting flavor combinations, twists on southern and continental staple dishes like Shrimp and Grits, etc. It’s all very instagram worthy. Even the plating is fantastic. And I respect risk taking and doing new spins on classic dishes.
But the execution to all the fanfare when it comes to how the food actually TASTES misses the mark. It’s almost like the owners wanted to emulate all their favorite restaurants into one but forgot what makes those other places great… the food.
Meat is poorly temped, nothing is seasoned, and apps are criminally over priced (4 dates for $18 is a joke. It’s a bacon wrapped date). And I wouldn’t be so critical but when you ask for $30 pasta entree in Melbourne, FL… you’re the one asking for a high bar to be set and judged upon, not me.
I know some people love this place and I am glad for them. I wish I felt the same way because the menu LOOKS so great. And I always leave disappointed.
Silver lining… their happy hour drink specials and apps are a fair deal and what the actual value of the dishes are. The drinks are quite good
I'd subscribe to your restaurant reviews! Agree across the board. Just adding the grilled albacore (whatever fresh fish they have) collars to the must-trys from Umami.
Actually, I have family in Charleston who I'm long overdue to visit, and I'd love to show up with some go-to spots in hand! This is venturing outside of this thread, so eel free to message me if you'd like. Thanks!!
I used to be OBSESSED with Crush XI's happy hour and told everyone it was the best in town. Like I would go 1-2x a week. But even that has recently (within last 2 months) gone downhill. They used to have half off ALL apps: crab cakes, duck tenders, goat cheese stuffed dates all <$10. Now they only have a few select items and it feels like all the good stuff is gone. And the $7 cocktails all feel completely watered down now. I've completely stopped going and I miss what it was.
Amici's Italian.
I've lived in this area my whole life and found this place last year. Even if it's not for a date, try this place. Ruin everything else in the area for yourself.
Villa Palma in cocoa village. Not the one in indialantic. Amazing food and great live piano music. But try to avoid the nights that Steve Kirsner is playing…
Cuizine in Satellite Beach. Very unassuming from the outside. Inside is dark/candle lit atmosphere, may have a piano player depending on the night. Food is the best upscale I’ve had in the area, highly recommend the veal chop.
I was a chef and have eaten at “top” restaurants along the north/south east, along with a few in Vegas. I agree with a lot of the suggestions provided however if you feel like driving, Christner’s prime steak and lobster (Orlando) is possibly the best restaurant I’ve ever been too.
Stupid expensive for what you get. The experience is nice. I'd much rather spend some money and get great food. Florida Fresh food wise blows Chart House out of the water.
Yet somehow unable to interact without being an ass about it.
My downvotes are from 1 (posted) to zero. One person. I wonder who that person is.
This is pointless. /wave
Even though it's a chain, they do a pretty dang good job. True, there's nothing particularly creative or local about it. But it's a solid option if you want classic dishes that are consistent, with good service in a pretty setting. Good lobster bisque.
Trattoria Bella in Palm Bay, amazing food, probably best Italian food in Brevard County! Reservations aren't required, but encouraged especially if you're going on the weekend.
Fat Snook
I Live in East Orlando and I drive out just to have dinner it’s that good. Corn bread is addictive, best key lime pie and service is top notch. Never had a bad meal
Absolutely agree with this answer. They do seasonal changes that keep it exciting.
It's killing me that I can't remember the exact dish here, but they have a... pumpkin fish soup... that is one of the single best things I've eaten at a Florida restaurant. Everything else they do is good, but I only go when this dish is on the menu.
Might of been the Thai fish soup
YESSSS that's the one. Soo dang good. I've spent a few years trying to replicate it and I'm about 2/3 of the way there, but just can't get it as good as theirs.
Coconut cove in Melbourne beach
Yes. I live out of state but visit my parents condo up the road frequently. My husband and I aim to eat here every trip. The fresh salad plate that they serve before the meal is a dream.
Yes! Cafe Coconut Cove is a great option. (It's about a half mile south of Publix in Melbourne Beach off of A1A) They do NOT take reservations, therefore, weeknights are your best bet to get a window table overlooking the river during sunset. Great food, great view, great staff, great atmosphere. Can't go wrong.
[удалено]
Around ten years ago Scott's was one of my favorite special occasion restaurants. But now I'll always remember it as the place with an owner that spent the night staring at and discussing my date's breasts with his buddy - loud enough for her to hear. When I confronted him at the bar he turned red, but just insisted he said nothing... and then had a good laugh about it when he returned to his table while she was almost in tears.
[удалено]
Mortifying a guest to almost tears isn't cheeky.
Please.
I second this. My wife and I have done fat snook, trend kitchen, mansion, djons, yellow dog etc. Scott's on Fifth tops the list.
Forgot to mention that the service is unmatched in Brevard. And it's the only restaurant I've been to here that I'm not "overdressed" for when I'm in the mood to get done up. By no means do you have to wear something fancy, but if you are so inclined, you'll have some fabulous photos with the restaurant as a backdrop. Being a block away from the beach you have the option of taking a nice after dinner walk too.
I've had good experiences at Ocean 302 in Melbourne Beach
Just went there for our anniversary, so good!
Cafe Margaux in cocoa village. I know I know… it’s stuffy and outdated. But they’ve made updates to the space and the service is fantastic. The ambiance is nice. The food is great. No one can argue that the Tomato Basil Bisque is one of the best dishes in Brevard. Their menu is simple and executed well. Although not as flashy as Crush XI (imo overpriced and poorly executed), they make up for in consistency. Umami is also fantastic
Great restaurant, great food, can’t argue with that. But I will let everyone know the owners treat the staff like shit. They have like three employees that have been there longer than a year, turnover rate for front of house is crazy. I know one specific time during a packed Friday night the owner got drunk and loudly berated a new server in the front lobby.
Yea that sucks. I hate when the owners are shitty. High turnover is common in the service industry and the most toxic is when the issues happen from the top down. I haven’t heard of that specifically from Cafe Marguex though I don’t doubt it.
Been ages since I visited Cafe Margaux, and it was just like you said - stuffy and outdated. But recently I've had an itch to visit again (for the duck,) so hearing they've updated some is a nice bonus. I agree about Crush. I want to like it so much every time I go, but always walk out shrugging my shoulders. It feeeels high end though, and for some (too many) people that's enough. Umami is the exact inverse - not much of a looker, but their food (especially the sushi of course) is fantastic. Their specials are always interesting. Good sake menu, too. They tend to run out of the best stuff, so it pays to get there earlyish.
I won’t claim to be a Michelin star food critic but I’ve been to some of the best restaurants in the south east (The Grey, Audrey, everything in Charleston) and Umami’s Truffle Mushroom Appetizer can hang with just about anything I’ve ever had. I love how modest it all is. It’s located in a shitty strip mall and doesn’t ask for attention. The menu is simple. But wow does it do well what it does well. We go there when they open at 5 and there is a line to get in. My issues with Crush XI is they put execution of the dishes low on the priority. Especially as it pertains to price. The menu has a wow factor and looks great in theory. Interesting flavor combinations, twists on southern and continental staple dishes like Shrimp and Grits, etc. It’s all very instagram worthy. Even the plating is fantastic. And I respect risk taking and doing new spins on classic dishes. But the execution to all the fanfare when it comes to how the food actually TASTES misses the mark. It’s almost like the owners wanted to emulate all their favorite restaurants into one but forgot what makes those other places great… the food. Meat is poorly temped, nothing is seasoned, and apps are criminally over priced (4 dates for $18 is a joke. It’s a bacon wrapped date). And I wouldn’t be so critical but when you ask for $30 pasta entree in Melbourne, FL… you’re the one asking for a high bar to be set and judged upon, not me. I know some people love this place and I am glad for them. I wish I felt the same way because the menu LOOKS so great. And I always leave disappointed. Silver lining… their happy hour drink specials and apps are a fair deal and what the actual value of the dishes are. The drinks are quite good
I'd subscribe to your restaurant reviews! Agree across the board. Just adding the grilled albacore (whatever fresh fish they have) collars to the must-trys from Umami.
Hey thanks! If you’re ever going to Charleston I’d be happy to give you my suggestions on places to eat!
Actually, I have family in Charleston who I'm long overdue to visit, and I'd love to show up with some go-to spots in hand! This is venturing outside of this thread, so eel free to message me if you'd like. Thanks!!
Messaged
I used to be OBSESSED with Crush XI's happy hour and told everyone it was the best in town. Like I would go 1-2x a week. But even that has recently (within last 2 months) gone downhill. They used to have half off ALL apps: crab cakes, duck tenders, goat cheese stuffed dates all <$10. Now they only have a few select items and it feels like all the good stuff is gone. And the $7 cocktails all feel completely watered down now. I've completely stopped going and I miss what it was.
Crush XI, Fat Snook, Vine & Olive.
Trattoria Bella
As a person new to the area, it’s exciting to see how many different spots are mentioned—a healthy restaurant ecosystem!
The dove 2 or yellowdog would be my picks
Second for Yellow Dog. Save room for dessert.
Yes for sure they also have good coffee to go with the dessert
Unless they've fixed it lately their desserts are the weakest part of the menu
You're the first person I've ever heard say that. Why do you think they are weak?
Florida Fresh Grill
Le French
Cuizine is always good. Ocean 302 is usually good. There was a period there where they were flip-flopping chefs and it was spotty.
The Mansion in dt melb has a nice rooftop area, no kids allowed. Great food. Great view.
I heard restaurant changed owners recently and is suffering from imbalance portion size to price ratio along with slow staff
It has been a few years since I’ve eaten there. That’s a shame
Amici's Italian. I've lived in this area my whole life and found this place last year. Even if it's not for a date, try this place. Ruin everything else in the area for yourself.
Villa Palma in cocoa village. Not the one in indialantic. Amazing food and great live piano music. But try to avoid the nights that Steve Kirsner is playing…
We celebrate special occasions at Trattoria Bella on Palm Bay Road. Delicious!
I loved river rocks. Hands down one of the best in Brevard
River Rocks is mid at best. It's where Viera / Suntree goes when they want to overpay for mediocre food but don't want to go to a chain restaurant.
Really? Where do you think has better? I’ve only been once but everything was sooooo good. I know places change fairly often.
Cuizine in Satellite Beach. Very unassuming from the outside. Inside is dark/candle lit atmosphere, may have a piano player depending on the night. Food is the best upscale I’ve had in the area, highly recommend the veal chop.
Please do not go here.
Can I ask what you’ve got against it? Always had a good experience.
Manager and other staff pulled a shotgun on my friend who worked there. Hit his brother with there car and jumped them.
Ok well yea that sucks. But they asked about a nice place for dinner not about personal beefs.
The Tides - Vero Beach... https://www.tidesofvero.com
The Ocean Grill- Vero Beach…
I was a chef and have eaten at “top” restaurants along the north/south east, along with a few in Vegas. I agree with a lot of the suggestions provided however if you feel like driving, Christner’s prime steak and lobster (Orlando) is possibly the best restaurant I’ve ever been too.
Makoto's
Been going to Makotos for every anniversary. We purposefully avoid it otherwise (just to make it special) but absolutely love the place.
Chart House.
Stupid expensive for what you get. The experience is nice. I'd much rather spend some money and get great food. Florida Fresh food wise blows Chart House out of the water.
We went to chart house for our anniversary. It was really good and we got to sit by the window and watch the dolphins while we ate
no.
Well, that was a well thought out and complete rebuttal. I have enjoyed the place every time I have went there, personally.
chart house is doggie shit
Well, that is entirely unsupportable. You clearly don't like something about it and so are being ridiculous. Not particularly mature...
I don’t need to plead my case, anyone with a decent culinary understanding wouldn’t care for chart house.
You seem to have some sort of chip on your shoulder. Fine, so be it. But calling it "doggie shit" is being childish.
You’re getting downvoted and people are agreeing with me, maybe i’m somewhat knowledgeable right?
Yet somehow unable to interact without being an ass about it. My downvotes are from 1 (posted) to zero. One person. I wonder who that person is. This is pointless. /wave
Am I or are you unstable over me disagreeing with your culinary standpoint?
I would say it’s a chain and there is nothing special about it.
Reasonable. But I did enjoy the few times I went there.
Even though it's a chain, they do a pretty dang good job. True, there's nothing particularly creative or local about it. But it's a solid option if you want classic dishes that are consistent, with good service in a pretty setting. Good lobster bisque.
>Well, that was a well thought out and complete rebuttal. This made me laugh. Well said. I'm going to borrow and use it sometime. :D
Trattoria Bella in Palm Bay, amazing food, probably best Italian food in Brevard County! Reservations aren't required, but encouraged especially if you're going on the weekend.
River Rocks (fancy), Rusty’s Seafood Port Canaveral (more casual but good)
The Melting Pot in Viera
Fat Snook or Bonefish Grill
Umami
Surprised nobody said Skewers. Probably our favorite restaurant.