Taste of India - Good selection of dishes. They have a real, tandoor clay oven, so the food (especially the flat-breads) has a good flavor and texture. Good lamb dishes, masala dosa, uttapam, samosas, kofta, tikka, bhel puri, korma. Nice Sunday dinner buffet, and inexpensive boxes to go. Also, when they say spicy, they mean it. Be sure to try the peshwari naan, mango lassi, and the masala tea. Mango ice cream reminded us of many trips to India. Comfortable setting. West side of Wickham, 1/4 mile south of Sarno. Lunch M-F 11:30-2:30, Sa-Su 12-3. Dinner 5-10. 751-4191, TasteOfIndiaFL.us
Gyros & More - Lebanese food the owners can be proud of. Good lamb skewers at good prices. SE corner of Hibiscus and Airport Blvd. M-Sa 10-8. 608-3960
Pistilli's Pizza - Jersey-style pizza with fresh ingredients on a wonderful crust. Traditional Italian menu and specials to be explored. Lunch buffet. No corkage fee. Friendly owner and staff. New location just west of old one is quite comfortable, and has much more seating. Eau Gallie Blvd, quarter-mile west of A1A, north side; sign is not too big. M-Th 11-9, F-Sa 11-10, Su 3-9. 777-2600, PistillisPizza.net
Hioki's Japanese Cuisine - Excellent sushi. Hibachi-grilled Cobia, Grouper, Dolphin, or Tripletail, or the Box-Lunch, which has a smaller portion of the grilled fish, and a variety of other things. Usually crowded at lunch. M-Th 11-2, 5:30-9:30, F 11-2, 5:30-10, Sa 5:30-10. 951-2710
Bianco's Big League Family Eatery - Large, gourmet burgers and sandwiches made with quality ingredients. S side of Barton Blvd in Rockledge. M-F 11-2, 4:30-9, Sa 11-9. 309-4945. BigLeagueEatery.com
Ossorio Bakery and Cafe - Wood-fired roasted sandwiches and pizzas, as well as very good, and filling salads. Ice cream and pastries made there. Croissants are a big hit. 316 Brevard Ave, Cocoa Village. M-Sa 8a-8:30p, Su 9a-6p. 639-2423. Facebook Page
El Tequila - Authentic Mexican food with fresh ingredients, and not greasy. Friendly service at reasonable prices. Try the cactus. 412 Harbor City Blvd, 622-8615. US1, on the bend before Babcock, to right of Del's Freeze ice cream shop. Menu
The Edelweiss - Authentic German. Make room for dessert. Good German beers on tap. Not expensive. Excellent service. Nice atmosphere, decoration, and music. 2543 S. US1, on the east side of the road, half a mile south of 192. W-Sa 4-9. 723-6555, Edelweiss-Florida.com
Euro Deli - Polish. Sandwiches, soups, pierogies, bigos. Desserts, such as strudel. 192 and Wickham, in NW shopping center. M-Sa 10-8, Sun 12-6. Lunch served 11-5. 220-4818. EuroDeliMelbourneFL.com
Michelli's Pizzeria - Very good pizza and garlic knots. Extensive menu. Good service. Basic tables in a smallish room. Very busy at night. NE corner of Palm Bay Rd and Minton Rd, to immediate left of Publix. 953-8488. MichellisPizza.com
Harbor City Diner - Gourmet diner. Greek, Italian, and American dishes. Massive sandwiches, burgers, pies, and cakes. Wickham Rd, just N of 192, west side. 952-0707. 7a-9p. HarborCityDiner.com
La Tinaja Cuban Cafe - Hispanic-Caribbean food like your grandma used to cook. All their ingredients are fresh. They make their own bread for their Cuban sandwiches. Sangria. Call ahead to make sure there is room to dine, else order take-out. Large portions. US1, west side, half mile north of 528, Tu-Sa 11-9, Su 11-7. 639-1430
Smokehouse Foods - We keep this lower down on the list simply because it is a lunch place with a limited selection. However, we wouldn't want it to be overlooked, since it is some of the best BBQ we know. They smoke the meats and seafood for quite awhile, and have a large variety for sale, since they ship it all over the country. They also have huge salads with quality veggies, covered with smoked marlin or mackeral. The "Fish Taco" is the same thing, just stuffed into a huge burrito. The pork sandwiches are addictive. Brunswick Stew full of goodies. Very good beans. Smoked salmon dip to take home. Large selection of hot sauces on the tables. Free refills on sodas. They are in Port Canaveral, along restaurant row, but not on the water. Tu-F 10-6, Sa 11-6. 784-9300 Smokehouse Foods
George's Jamaican Bakery & Restaurant - Quality ingredients cooked right. Excellent jerk pork and very good oxtail. Best homemade pastries and patties we have had. In shopping center NW of I-95 and Malabar Rd. M-Sa 10-7. 727-1060
Petrillo's Italian Eatery - Nice range of food, especially pizza. 960 N Highway A1A. M-F 4:30p-9, Sa 4-9:30, Su 4-9. 953-6888
Auddino's Italian Bakery - Pastries: macaroons, cream puff, biscotti, cannoli, sfogliatelle, croissants, cheesecake, cassata cake, tiramisu, cookies. Espresso. House-churned gelato. Pizza and sandwiches. 523 Glen Cheek Dr, in Port Canaveral. Tu-Th 7a-6p, F-Sa 7a-8a, Su 7a-4p. 205-1210.
Captain Katanna's - Indoor poolbar and outdoor deck on the river. Crab, conch fritters, and fish. Greek food too. East side of US1, four blocks north of Post Road. Su-Th 11-10. F-Sa 11-11. 253-1369, Katannas.com
Bonefish Willy's Riverfront Grille - Nice place for seafood, even if expensive (coupons in Friday paper). Indoor restaurant and outdoor deck on the river. 2459 Pineapple Ave, east of US1, a mile north of Eau Gallie Blvd, M-Sa 11-10, Su 11-9. 253-8888, BonefishWillys.com
Squid Lips - Have a good long look at the menu. Eau Gallie Blvd and Pineapple Ave, on the river. S-Th 11-9, F-Sa 11-10. 259-3101. Another in Sebastian, on US, along the river, same hours, 772-589-3828. SquidLipsGrill.com
Toojay's Original Gourmet Deli - Jewish deli with good food in huge portions and phenomenal desserts. Melbourne Square Mall, SW corner, next to JC Penneys, 369-0450. Miracle Mile in Vero, 772-659-9011; and six in Orlando area. Open 8a-9p. Toojays.com
Meg O'Malleys Restaurant & Irish Pub - Too many good choices. 812 E. New Haven Ave, 952-5510. M-Sa 10:30a-2a, Su 11a-2a. MegOMalleys.com
Roberto's Little Havana - Good Cuban food. Extensive menu. Very nice Black Bean Soup and best Flan ever. Lomito de Puerco also worth the trip. 26 North Orlando Ave (southbound A1A), just north of intersection in Cocoa Beach. M 7a-3p, Tu-Th and Su 7-3 and 5-9, F-Sa 7-1 and 5-10. 784-1868, RobertosLittleHavana.com
Skewers Mediterranean Grill (Lebanese Gourmet) - Syrian/Lebanese. Cedar Combo, Babaganouj, Kunafa Dessert & Turkish Coffee. Small place with nice atmosphere, and service that spans the full range of possibilities. North side of Fifth Ave (192), three blocks west of A1A. A bit of a splurge, but worth it occasionally. Make reservations on the weekends and anytime in the winter. M-Sa 11-4, 5-9:30, closed Sun. 727-8944, SkewersRestaurant.net
Petra's: A Taste of the Mediterranean - Good Middle Eastern food at reasonable prices. Excellent service from friendly staff. Twin lamb kebabs $12. Basmati rice. US 192, one block east of Babcock, south side. M-Su 10:30-9:30. 473-8966. PetrasMelbourne.com
Middle Eastern Aromas - Friendly Lebanese couple serve authentic meals with fresh ingredients. Good lunch specials. Shawarma, Mint Tea, Turkish Coffee. Bellydancing on Friday night 6p-9p. Southwest corner of Babcock & University, by Florida Tech. M-F 11-10, Sa 11-8, closed Sun. 725-5941, MiddleEasternAromas.com
Al-Houda - Lebanese. Very good lamb, kibbeh, babaganoush, and sage tea. Friendly service. Babcock St, in first shopping center north of Palm Bay Rd, right side. 676-8905. M-Su 11a-2a.
Joumana's Meditarranean Cuisine - Middle Eastern. Excellent lamb, kibbeh, babaganuj, grape leaves, and kafta. Baklava is worth the trip, as they have it shipped in, and goes well with Turkish coffee. 2155 Palm Bay Rd NE, 768-0120. Menu
Carabba's - Good Italian, including the pizza. One on Palm Bay Rd, 20 yards west of Babcock, north side. The other on 520, near the mall. Carabbas.com
Java Surf - Excellent coffee, especially espresso macchiato. Impressive desserts. Good sandwiches. Shave ice drinks. Smoothies. Great service. Beautiful and comfortable interior. A1A and Fifth Ave, NE corner, N side of the building, to right of Bizarro's Pizza. 953-0366. M-Th 7a-8p, F 7a-9p, Su 8a-7p.
El Ambia Cubano - Very good Cuban sandwiches, tostones, roast pork, and espresso. Daily specials. Saturday pig roast and live music. Reasonable prices. Counter, table, and outdoor seating. 950 Melbourne Ave, by railroad bridge. M-F 11-3 and 5-8, Sa 12-3 and 5-8. 327-8389, ElAmbiaCubano.com
Panther Dining Hall at Florida Tech - Buffet: Salad bar, grill station, vegan station, cereal bar, and deli station. International station has rotating menu. $8 breakfast, $10 lunch, $12 for dinner. Free parking in the garage behind it, in the visitor slots on the ground floor. M-F 7a-9p, Sa-Su 8:30a-8:30p. Panther Dining Hall
Bombay Curry - Lamb, chicken, and vegetarian: curry, biryani, tikka, kebabs, and samosas. Lassi. 4910 Stack Blvd, Palm Bay Rd and first light W of Babcock, at East-Ish Multi-Cultural Food Market. M-Th, Sa 11:30-8, F 11:30-1, 3-8, Su 12-7. 506-4411.
Olympia Cafe - Excellent falafel, great sandwiches, good prices from friendly Greek couple. US1, quarter mile north of 192, on the west side. Breakfast and lunch M-W & Sa 11a-4p, Th-F 11a-8p. 676-8910. Olympia Cafe
Yianni's Deli - Lively Greek owner serves breakfast and lunch. Wide variety of large sandwiches, but at a higher cost. Great grilled lamb. Wonderful soups and best Tiramisu ever bit into. 2897 W. New Haven Ave (192) in the Home Depot Plaza, M-Th 8-4, F-Sa 8-8, Su 8-3. 724-6644
Marsh Landing - Very Southern, including gator tail, frog legs, and catfish! Good burger and crab cakes. 44 N Broadway, 3 mi W of I-95, N of 512, 772-571-8622. Su-Th 6a-9p, F-Sa 6a-10p. MarshLandingRestaurant.com
Golden Corral - Extensive buffet. Good quality for the price, especially of you arrive before 4p. Palm Bay Rd, just east of I-95, south side. 722-4142. GoldenCorral.com
Sand Bar - Sandwiches, pizza, tacos, buritos. Taco Tuesday 1/2 off. Fri $5 meals. Habanero hot sauce. Service is a little slow. Not much seating. 300 Ocean Ave, 11a-10p, 733-7977. SandBarSportsGrill.net
Jason's Deli - Sandwiches, salads, and soups, including muffalettas, po'boys, and gumbo. All-u-can-eat salad bar. South side of 192, across from Melbourne Mall. Open daily 10:30a-9:30p. 733-6075, JasonsDeli.com
Long Doggers Radically Relaxed Grill & Brew - Surf-themed indoor/outdoor. The cracked-peppercorn seared tuna is prepared well. Also have wings, ribs, clams, shrimp, chili, fish sandwiches, variety of hot dogs and thick, juicy hamburgers. Steel Drums Wed on beach, and Thurs on mainland. Four locations: Indialantic: West side of A1A, a half mile N of 192, at the light, 725-1115. Mainland: Post Rd, just E of Wickham Rd, across street from BCC and King Center, 751-4448. Satellite Beach: Satellite Beach: S. Patrick Drive. Palm Bay: Minton and Palm Bay Rd, 951-8884. Open daily 10:30a-Midnight. LongDoggers.com
Pizza Gallery - Build-your-own pizza, gourmet-eclectic with good selection of beer, and great desserts. In the mall Avenue Viera, M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sa 11-11, Su 11-8. 633-0397, PizzaGalleryAndGrill.com
Big Spoon - 3085 Jupiter Blvd, at Eldron, 500 yd S of Malabar. 914-3701. M-Sa 8-8. Caribbean dishes from the islands, Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, Antigua, Haiti. Jerk chicken, jerk fish, jerk pork, brown stew chicken & fish, curry chicken & goat, stew peas, oxtail, cow foot, steam fish, escoveitched fish, curry grouper, ackee & saltfish, brown stew liver & kidney, fry dumplings, fritters, fry plantain, fry breadfruit, bammy, callaloo, Goldencrust patties, porridge, chicken soup, beef soup, peas soup, vegetable soup, fish tea or fish soup, jamaican fruit juices and sodas. Seat up to 40 people, take out, delivery, and catering. Specials: $5 all day M-F. Mon Cow Foot. Tu Curry Shrimp. Wed Stew Peas. Th Mannish Water. Fri Jerk Pork. Everyday mini-lunch 11a-2p; any chicken meal $4; chicken is Jerk, Fry, Curry or Brown Stew. Big Spoon
Scrambled Egg - Breakfast and lunch. Omelets, pancakes, hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and salads. Large over-sized muffins in a variety of inventive flavors. Good value and service. 727 Pinetree Dr, Indian Harbour Beach, at A1A, west side of building on corner. M-Su 7a-2p. 610-8910. Facebook page
Las Palmas Cuban - Good pernil asado, also known as roast pork. Try the tropical fruit shakes. Loud music and basic service. Babcock St, a couple blocks south of Palm Bay Rd, on the west side, next to Pizza Hut. M-Th 11-9, F-Sa 11-10. 725-0895, LasPalmasCubanRestaurant.com
Ay! Jalisco - Good family-owned Mexican place. Crab enchiladas have become a fattening habit. Fresh chips and nice salsa. Service variable. 1909 20th St in Vero, near St. Helen's Catholic Church. Open 7 days 11-10. 772-978-0661. Also on Route 60 near Indian River Blvd, in the shopping center with TJ Maxx, across from Deep 6. Maybe a third location.
El Charro's - Comfortable, family-owned Mexican place with good selection of food. 912 Florida Ave, SW of Cocoa Village, east of US1. M-Sa 11-3, 5-10. 639-1004, ElCharroCFL.com
Fiesta Azteca - Comfortable, family-owned Mexican place with food that isn't too oily, salty, nor bland. NW corner of 192 and Wickham/Minton, 725-1441. Second on Wickham, just south of Sarno, west side, 242-5966. Third on Wickham, a few blocs south of Suntree Blvd, east side, 255-2185. Fourth not anywhere near Wickham, but way NE on A1A in Cape Canaveral, just before road bends west at the port, east side, 242-5966. M-Th 11-10, F-Sa 11-Midnight, FiestaAzteca.com
Francisco's Mexican - Comfortable, family-owned Mexican place with food that isn't too oily, salty, nor bland. SE corner of Wickham and Lake Washington. M-Th 11-9, F 11-10, Sa 12 -10, Su 12-9. 751-3322.
Big Island Burritos - Surfer-style Mexican. Variety of eclectic burritos, tacos, nachos, salads, and soups in nice portions with option of meat, chicken, or fish. Try the Big Island Bowl, Extreme Burrito, or Boca Bowl. A1A, half mile north of Fifth Ave (192), by Long Doggers and Cantina Dos Amigos. M-Sa 11-9, Su 1-7. 733-4802, BigIslandBurritos.com
Don's Famous Hoagies - Great sandwiches. 784 S Apollo Blvd, E of Babcock, N of Nasa. 676-7030. M-F 10-5, Sa 10-4.
Sun Shoppe & Cafe - Meals, sandwiches, pastries, smoothies, ice cream, and a variety of coffees. In the historic downtown area, at west end of New Haven. M-Sa 8a-Midnight. 676-1438, SunShoppeCafe.com
Blueberry Muffin - Go for the huge blueberry pancakes. A1A, 1/4 mile north of 192, west side. 725-7117.
Panera Bread - Good variety of bread, pastries, sandwiches, and soup in a bakery cafe. One on Palm Bay Rd, just west of I-95, north side, 215-2500. One on west side of Wickham, just north of Post Road, in north end of shopping center. One in SE corner of Eau Gallie Blvd and Riverside Dr, 872-0000. Another in Town Center, Viera, 504-7250. M-F 6:30a-10:30p, 6:30a-8:30p. 259-2055, PaneraBread.com
Bob Evans - Impressive menu. Palm Bay Rd, just east of I-95, north side, 728-4141; another at Wickham Rd, just east of I-95, 757-5014. Su-Th 6a-9p, F-Sa 6a-9:30p. BobEvans.com
Red Lobster - Unlimited soup, salad, and drink for $5. Good gumbo, excellent clam soup. Tasty cheese biscuits. 2355 W. New Haven. 676-5111, RedLobster.com
Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar - Burgers that all rave about. Try the shark kebabs too. Huge portions. Nice open deck on the water in Port Canaveral. Second one on US1, 100 yd N of Pineda, with a deck on the water. 868-2226. Live bands, and sports on TV. GrillsSeafood.com
Portside Galley - where the workers in the Port Canaveral area go for a breakfast and lunch. Many daily specials. Good fish sandwiches. On the main road into the port area. M-F 7a-2p, Sa-Su 7a-1p, 868-0018
Frankie's Wings & Things - for affordable rock shrimp. West Melbourne and Port St. John. M 4-9, Tu-Th 11-9, F 11-10, Sa 12-10, Su 12-9255-7912.
Dixie Crossroads - All-U-Can-Eat Broiled Rock Shrimp and Hush Puppies, but be there by 4:30-5PM, and expect very long waits on Fri and Sat evenings or anytime Sunday. South side of Garden St in Titusville, four blocks west of US1, three miles east of I-95. Everyday 11-10. 268-5000, DixieCrossroads.com
Croissant Chateau Bakery - Bread. Breakfast. Lunch sandwiches. 817 E New Haven Ave, across from Meg O'Malleys, 956-9009. Croissant Chateau Bakery
Colombia Harvest Bakery - Coffee. Good bread, pastries, and sandwich. 2000 Palm Bay Rd, 726-0888. M-F 7-5, Sa 8a-5, Su 9-3.
Asian Gourmet - Vietnamese & Thai. Pleasant staff uses a good selection of quality vegetables. Not cheap. Cooking Classes. US1, one mile south of Eau Gallie, two miles north of 192, at the north end of Babcock. M-F 11-9, Sa 12-9. 255-6471 Asian-Gourmet.com
Mike & Brother BBQ & Catering - Little shack on wheels that serves great oak-smoked BBQ. 1431 W. King St, Cocoa. South side of 520, a block west of Fiske Blvd. Tu-F 11-6, Sa 11-11, closed Sun. 690-2460
Slow & Low Bar-B-Que - NC barbecue sandwiches: pulled-pork, smoked turkey, chicken, beef or ribs. Other: fried fish sandwich, bratwurst, turkey salad club, or chargrilled sirloin or ribeye steak. Sides: baked sweet potato, okra, fried sweet potato chips, barbecued beans, slaw, and corn on the cob. Appetizers: onion rings, jalapeno poppers, potato skins, fried pickles, fried green tomatoes, chicken tenders, Brunswick stew, wings. 306 N Orlando Ave, Cocoa Beach, west side of A1A southbound, one block south of where the road splits, in the former location of Alma's. M-Th 7am-midnight, F-Sa 11am-2am, Su noon-10pm. 783-6199, SlowAndLowBarbeque.com
Sonny's Real Pit BBQ - Mysteriously, our car keeps stopping there for the babyback ribs and excellent sweet BBQ sauce (which Sam's sells in gallon containers). They also have our favorite fried okra. 310 N. Courtenay Pkwy (SR3), Merritt Island. Open 7 days. 11-9:30. 449-9102. Others: SW of I-95 on Malabar Rd in Palm Bay; and one on the N side of SR50, just east of I-95 in Titusville. SonnysBBQ.com
Woody's BBQ - Excellent okra. Good pulled pork. Big desserts. South side of 192, quarter mile west of the Melbourne Mall, Su-Th 11-9:30, F-Sa 11-10:30. 951-9163; A1A Indialantic, 779-8002, Woodys.com
Jim Jay's Sandwich Shop - Good brisket and babyback ribs. 2862 Palm Rd NE, 500 yd E of Harris, 725-3282. BBQ
Hog Wild Bar-B-Q & Grill - 1547 Maple Ave, few blocks NW of Eau Gallie and US1. Ribs, pulled pork, brisket, babybacks, burgers. M-F 11-7, Sa 10-4. 259-6605, Hog Wild
Smokey Bones BBQ & Sports Bar - Sports Bar with excellent ribs. In front of the Melbourne Mall. M-Th 11-10, F-Sa 11-11. 951-9777 SmokeyBones.com
Five Guys Burgers - Quality meat and ingredients at a reasonable price. Palm Bay Rd, one block west of I-95. 11a-10p. 409-9940, FiveGuys.com
Texas Roadhouse - Malabar Rd, west of I-95, and next to it, north side. 733-2939. Eau Gallie Blvd, half mile west of A1A, 773-3220. M-Th 4-10, F 4-10:30, Sa 12-10:30, Su 11:30-10. TexasRoadhouse.com
City Limits - Fat & juicy burgers in decent bowling alley restaurant. East side of Dairy Rd, one block north of Palm Bay Rd. Open 7 days 11-11. 723-2222
Longhorn Steakhouse - Palm Bay Rd, just W of I-95, 723-5200. Viera, NW of I-95 and Wickham, 632-9990. 770 E. Merritt Island Causeway (520), across from the Mall, 456-5559. LonghornSteakhouse.com
Outback Steakhouse - Plenty of good food, but prices aren't as reasonable as they used to be. Be there before 5PM. Excellent rack of lamb, and they have fresh fish six days a week. Steak, ribs, and cheesecake with raspberry sauce. East side of Babcock, in shopping center just north of Palm Bay Rd, M-F 4-10:30, Sa 3:30-1130, Su 3:30-1030. 722-0903; and in front of the Merritt Mall, 454-4450, Outback.com
JC's BBQ - Pulled pork and ribs. Little more expensive, but get more too. Aurora Rd, just W of Croton, south side. M-Th 11-8, Su 11-6. 259-9428.
Texas JAC BBQ - 3270 Suntree Blvd; a shack and grill on the N side of the road. M-Sa 11-2.
Chili's - Good guacamole burgers, fries, and ribs. Palm Bay Rd & Babcock. Mo-Th 11-11 F-Sa 11-12, Su 11-10:30. 984-0245; Sarno and Wickham, W.Melbourne 757-9449; or Merritt Is., Chilis.com
Mustard's Last Stand - NY/Chicago-style Hot Dogs and Kielbasa. One on west side of US1, one block west of Eau Gallie Blvd, M-Sa 11-5, Su 11:30-4, 254-5776. Other at west end of historic downtown area, on south side of New Haven; M-Th 11-8, F-Sa 11-9, Su 11:30-8, 951-3469. MustardsInc.com
Burger Place - 104 Municipal Ln, Old Melbourne, just S of 192. M-Th 11-8, F-Sa 11-9. 676-8914.
Burger Inn - Greasy but delicious burgers. US1, just north of Aurora Rd, east side. 254-2211
Ranch House Beverly's - US1, between 520 and 528, east side, 636-0868
Hooter's - NE corner of Babcock and Nasa, 725-7409, Hooters.com
Broken Barrel Tavern - 300 different beers. 30 TVs. Smoked fish dip, sweet potato fries, mahi tacos, turkey chili, Brunswick stew, pulled pork, sliced brisket, bratwurst, chicken salad, ribs, grilled mahi. Shopping center in SW corner of Babcock and Palm Bay Rd. M-Sa 11a-2a, Su noon-2a 728-4755. http://BrokenBarrelTavern.com
There are probably 40 more that I will never get to, so have a look at:
BrevardCounty.com
DiningGuide.com
MetroMix
Urban Spoon
Yelp
Pineda Crossing Bar & Grill - Large amount of amazing gourmet food in a happening place. Try anything and everything, especially the Portobello Fajitas. Excellent service. Not cheap. Just SW of Pineda on US1. 11am-10pm. 259-7760, PinedaCrossing.com
Salt & Sweet - Polish. Pierogies, kielbasa, and soups. Moderately-upscale Old-World Eastern European restaurant, with Russian, Italian, German, Viennese, and other specialties. Wickham Rd, and Lake Washington, in NW shopping center. 259-5182. M-Sa 11-2:30, 5-9:30.
Lafitte's New Orleans - Expensive but good Cajun. Inside the Hilton by the Airport. M-Th 5:30-10, F-Su 5:30-9.
Pumpernickel's Delicatessen - German food worth the drive. Tremendous selection of desserts. Small deli/grocer in lobby. Titusville, SW of Searstown Mall. 2850 S. Hopkins Ave. M-Sa 8-9, Su 8-2. 268-5160
Cafe Coconut Cove - Excellent but expensive German food in a comfortable setting. 4210 South A1A, S. Melbourne Beach (look for sign on the west side, quarter mile south of Publix). Tu-Sa 5-9, closed Su-Mo. 727-3133, CafeCoconutCove.com
Chart House - Caeser's Salad, steak & seafood. SE of 192 & US1, south of Hatt's Dive Shop (Melbourne Ave) along the Intracoastal. M-Th 5-9:30, F 5-10, Sa 5-10:30, Su 4:30-9:30. 729-6558, Chart-House.com
Black Tulip - Continental cuisine, good, expensive. Cocoa Village. M-Sa 11-1:30, 5:30-9, closed Su. 631-1133, BlackTulip.com
Thai Kitchen - Excellent Thai food, mediocre service and prices. The woman ran a restaurant in Thailand before, cooking the recipes her grandma taught her. Chowhounders will be glad to know that she will prepare it Thai-style if you ask, and will probably cook anything you request, if the ingredients are available. For those stuck on Pad Thai, it is very good, and not like the too-sweet ones so many others serve. They are in the middle of the shops in the SE corner of Wickham and Aurora. M-W & F 11-2:30, 5-8:30. Sa 12-2:30 & 5-8:30, Su 12-2:30 & 5-7:30. 254-2283. Menu
Fired Up Coal Oven Pizzeria - Good calamari, and average pizza, but wonderful desserts, especially the tiramisu and cannoli. Comfortable seating, and good service. Malabar Rd, 100m W of Minton, N side. Su-Th 11-10, F-Sa 11-11. 727-3473. FiredUpCoP.com
Bizarro's Famous New York Pizza - Italian meals. Good pizza, but lots of competition these days. 4 Wave Crest Ave, Indialantic. NE corner of A1A and Fifth Ave (US 192, which is Exit 71 on I-95), M-Th 11-9, F-Sa 11-11, Su 12-9, 724-4799. In Suntree, there is Bizzarro Express, two lights east of I-95 (Exit 73) on Wickham Road, in the Mobil station on the left side, on a corner across from Eckerds, 255-5852. And one on Palm Bay Rd at Port Malabar Rd, a mile east of I-95, 733-4343, and another just west of I-95 on Malabar Rd, 409-8111. In Cocoa (on the mainland, not beach-side), there is a Hegel's Bizarro's in the Byrd Plaza Shopping Center on Dixon Blvd, west of US1, across the train tracks, halfway between 528 and 520, 638-2155. They also have Noonan's, a regular restaurant serving dinners (but it can be a noisy echo chamber) at 218 Hwy A1A in Satellite Beach, just south of Pineda, 777-7793
TGI Fridays - Extensive menu, and later hours. 192 and Hollywood/Evans, on NW corner, across from Melbourne Mall, 723-8443. Other one in front of Merritt Square Mall, 452-8071, TGIFridays.com
Casablanca Mediterranean Grill - NW corner of Ocean Blvd and A1A, a 1/4 mile S of Pineda Blvd, Satellite Beach. 777-1019.
A Taste of Thai Cuisine - Quality ingredients. Also serves sushi. A1A, a mile north of Eau Gallie Blvd, Indialantic, 777-4411. M-Sa 11-2:30, 4:30-10.
Siam Orchid - Thai & Sushi. One in Melbourne on NASA, just east of Babcock, 729-6383. The other is at La Quinta Inn in Cocoa Beach, 783-4545. M-F 11:30-2:30, M-Su 5:30-10. SiamOrchidMelbourne.net
Miyako's - Good sushi & service. East side of US1, four blocks north of 192. M-F 11-10:30, Sa 5-10:30, Su 5-9:30+. 676-6006
Banzai Sushi Thai - NW corner of Wickham and Lake Washington. M-Th 11a-2:45p, 4:30p-9:30p, F-Sa 11a-2:45p, 4:30p-10p, Su 4:30p-9p. 757-5804, BanzaiSushiThai.com
Haru Sushi Bar & Grill - Upscale Japanese restaurant that serves Korean dishes Bulgoki, Kalbi, and Bibimbab. NE corner of Wickham and 192, 676-5159. And at 1500 North A1A, Indiatlantic, 725-6100. M-F 11:30-2:30, M-Su 5-10, HaruSushiBar.com
Papagallo's - Good pizza & $5+ All-U-Can-Eat buffet at lunch. 2910 N A1A, 1/2 mile S of Eau Gallie, across from the Hilton. Su-Th 11-9:30, F-Sa 11-10. 773-7272
Pho Cali Vietnamese - Extensive menu. Massive amount of food. Bubble tea. Eccentric, misunderstood waiter. Wickham Rd, just S of Sarno, W side, 255-7525, 242-7028. M-Th 11-9. F-Sa 11-9:30. Pho Cali
Saigon Bistro Vietnamese Cuisine - Good but expensive. 1306 20th Street, Vero Beach (north side of road). M-F 11:30-3 & 5-10, Sa-Su 5-10. 772-299-5997
Hazel's Caribbean - Jamaican. Good Oxtail. Curry Goat. Roti. Fine jerk pork. Fresh coco bread and homemade beef patties. Try the Brown Stew Chicken for something different. Plan on take-out, since music too loud. In the strip mall at Stack Blvd and Palm Bay Rd, two blocks west of Babcock. M-Sa 11-10, Su 11-8. 768-6453, HazelsCaribbean.com
Caribbean Cove - Basic Jamaican. Oxtail, Curry Goat & Chicken, Rice & Peas. Nice sorrell drink sometimes available. 582 W. King St. North side of 520, two blocks west of US1. 631-6699
Jerky's Jamaican - Jerk Pork & Chicken, Oxtail Stew, Curry Goat & Chicken, Roti, Fish, Rice & Peas, Fried Plantain. South side of Palm Bay Rd, two blocks west of Babcock. M-Th 11-9, F-Sa 11-10, Su 1-7. 728-8107
Rocky's Jamaican - Good goat roti. Oxtail is OK. Jerk (food, not person) not to our liking. Snapper. Excellent island-style homemade sweet potato pudding (pie) and ginger beer. Conch fritters and salad if ordered in advance. Ackee on Sat. Smaller meals, but smaller prices. 2280 Harris St. on Palm Bay Rd, next to the Circle K, by Harris Corp. M-F 9-7, Sa 10-8. 676-4412
Indian & Caribbean Kitchen - Guyanese-Trini style phoulorie, plantain, samosas, beef patties, doubles (chickpeas), goat curry, oxtail, biryani, tandoori, and tikkas. S Babcock St, SW corner of University Blvd (by FIT), upstairs to the right. M-Sa 10a-11p. 724-6131.
Kappy's Cafe - Cajun sandwich. 7025 N Wickham, Suntree Station next to 7 Eleven. Tu-F 6:30-8, Sa 7-4. 255-0991Colossus - Grecian Chicken and Moussaka. Greek Salad is large enough to be a meal, with crisp vegetables, and mounds of Feta. Leg of lamb and lamb shank at good prices. Strawberry mousse worth a try. Friendly service. West side of Wickham Rd, quarter mile south of Sarno. M-Sa 7a-9:30p, Su 7-9. 253-0355
Victoria's Family Restaurant - Good Greek food. Excellent rack of lamb, and large lamb shank. Friendly and comfortable restaurant full of locals. East side of N. Courtenay Pkwy (SR3), two blocks north of 520 in Merritt Island. M-Sa 7a-9p, Su 7a-2:30p. 459-1656
Zachary's - If you are in Cape Canaveral area and get hungry for Greek. Fish meals such as Tilapia are pretty good too, but suggest the Port a couple minutes to the north. 8799 Astronaut Blvd, west side of A1A, one mile south of Port Canaveral. M-Sa 6a-10, Su 7-10. 784-9007
Gyros & More - Actually standard Lebanese/Palestinian fare: Shawarma, Kibbi, Hummus, Babaganouj, Falafel. In the Melbourne Square Mall food court. Mo-Sa 10-9, Su 12-6. 952-9990
Rolli Pork Loin Extraordinaire - BBQ pork on soft kaiser rolls. Philly cheesesteaks, Portabella burgers, and great fries. New Haven, between Mall and Babcock, north side. M-Sa 6a-10p, Su 6a-9p. 409-0201
Siwon Tasty Chinese BBQ - Szechuan & Cantonese. Traditional roast duck and crispy skin pork Fri-Sun. SW corner of Babcock and Malabar Rd, 726-8140. M, W, Th 11a-9p, F-Sa 11a-9:30p. SiwonTasty.com
Mike & Sue's Chinese-Spanish Restaurant - Good food from a friendly couple. Basic Latin, and a few standard Chinese dishes. Ask for the special menu, which requires couple hours advance order. 2150 Harris Ave, half mile E of Babcock, along Palm Bay Rd, S side. 728-1102. M-F 11-8, Sa 12-8.
New Century Chinese Buffet - We are not fans of buffets due to the germs, and temptation to eat way too much, but listing them here for anyone who needs to graze. The Mongolian grill is very popular. Large restaurant on the west side of N. Courtenay Pkwy (SR3), four blocks north of 520.
Young's Buffet - Another Chinese buffet. Palm Bay Rd and Babcock, SW corner. 676-6188.
Grand Buffet - Chinese lunch buffet M-Sa 11-3. Dinner buffet M-Th 3:30-9:30, F-Sa 3:30-10:30, Su 11:30-10. NE corner of Babcock and Hibiscus, at the right end of the Melbourne Shopping Center. 723-8868.
Hong Kong Super Buffet - Fills up fast with a diverse crowd. M-Th 11-10:30, F-Sa 11-11, Su 12-10. South side of New Haven (across from the Melbourne Mall). 722-9966. HongKongSuperBuffet.com
Pita Pit - Build-your-own sandwiches and smoothies. Babcock, just south of Melbourne High School. M-F 10:30am-9pm, Sa-Su 11:30am-8pm. 327-5923, PitaPitUSA.com
Cedars Cafe - Average Lebanese. Very good lamb. Serious service issues. Tu-Sa 11-3, 5-9. On the west side of Wickham, just north of Post Road, 751-0000. CedarsCafe.com
Thai Thai Restaurant & Sushi Bar - Not impressed with the Thai food, staff, or atmosphere, besides small portions; but if you need a sushi fix, this is one place to stop, although there are others north on Wickham, or on Sarno. SE corner of Lake Washington and Wickham, 253-2353. Thai Thai 2 is on A1A at Paradise Beach Shopping Center, behind Ichabod's. Thai Thai 3 is in Cape Canaveral. Thai Thai House on Palm Bay Rd, just W of I-95, N side.
Sawaddee Thai-Sushi - Not my preference! 192 and Wickham, in NW shopping center. M-F 11-2:30, 4-9, Sa 12-10, Su 3-8. 727-8388. SawadeeSushi.com
Thai Village - Was good a few owners back. North side of Sarno Road at Apollo Blvd, west end of the shopping center. M-F 11-2, 5-9. Sa 5-9. Su 4:30-8:30. 259-0706
Shere Punjab - Shahi Korma, Rogan Josh, and aromatic rice were good. Tandoori was nothing to get excited about. Mango lassi drink was excellent although they loaded it with ice cubes. Passable service, but not too talkative. Prices a tad high since they are in a major tourist zone, but lunch prices much better. Not worth the splurge and attitude for us, now that other Indian restaurants have opened. North side of 520, one block west of A1A in Cocoa Beach. M-Su 11:30-2:30, M-Th 5-10, F-Sa 5-10:30, Su 5-10. 799-4696
El Bohio - Puerto Rican fare. NE corner of Babcock St and Palm Bay Rd, 676-6500, BrevardMenus.com/ElBohio.htm
Laloo's Roti Shop - Trinidadian Caribbean. Won't be back! 2040 Palm Bay Rd, half mile E of Babcock, S side, 327-2929. M-Th 10:30-7, F-Sa 10:30-8.
La Estancia de Luisa - Colombian. Babcock St and Port Malabar, SW corner, next to Winn Dixie. Tu-Th 11-8, F-Sa 11-9, Su 11-8. 984-5170. LaEstanciaDeLuisa.com
Island Spice - Jamaican in a comfortable atmosphere. Good ice cream, since they use to run Reid's. Palm Bay Rd, 500 yards west of Babcock, NW corner of Stack Blvd, in shopping center. 722-4478. M-Th 11-8 or 9, F-Sa 11-9 or 10. Su 11-3 or 4 buffet? M-F lunch specials 11-3. Happy hour 4-9. IslandSpiceGrillAndLounge.com
European Crew Corner - Wed wiener schnitzel, Th ribeye, Fri goulash, Sat sarma stuffed cabbage leaves. Merritt Square Mall, next to the main entrance. W-M lunch, W-Sa 5-9:30, 459-0101.
Brooklyn Pizza & Pasta - Best NYC style pie in the county. NW corner of Murrel and Viera in Rockledge. 633-7003. BrooklynPizza-Pasta.com
Loyd Have Mercy - Soul and Southern. Huge takeout business. $5 lunch specials. 640 S Park Ave, Titusville, 269-1008. Tu-W 11-4, Th-Sa 11-10. LoydHaveMercy.com
This info is primarily from the Melbourne YellowPages. You can also search Bellsouth online, under "Grocers" and "Oriental Goods", but it can be frustrating and incomplete. If you are only looking for dry goods, shopping on the Internet is also viable, but not nearly as fun.
Grimaldi Candies - Established in 1969, it was founded on family recipes from Italy over 100 years old. If you want to start a good/bad habit, try the chocolate-covered potato chips. They have moved 100 feet SW to Waverly Place, from old location at 815 E Strawbridge Ave, 3 blocks W of US 1, S side. 724-0535, GrimaldiCandies.com
Nosh & Ganache - Cafe, Chocolatier, Caterer. Lunch M-Sa 11-2:30. Dinner Th-Sa 6p-until no customers. Indoor and garden dining. 1540 Highland Ave, 254-1451
VinnieLu's Beachside Chocolates - 886 N Miramar Ave, Indialantic, 723-8000. VinnieLuChocolates.com
Brevard County Farmers Market - Thursday 3p-6p at Wickham Park. BrevardCountyFarmersMarket.com
USDA List - Select Florida, then search list for Brevard. USDA
Local Harvest - Farms and markets. Local Harvest
Eau Gallie Farmers Market - Saturday year-round, 8a-2p at the corner of Highland Ave and Eau Gallie Blvd, in the Eau Gallie Square Park. EauGallieFarmersMarket.com
Downtown Melbourne Farmers Market - Sat 9a-3p at 192 and US1, SW corner parking lot.
Palm Bay City Hall Grounds - Oct-May, 2nd Saturday of the month, 8am-3pm. Plants, fresh fruit & vegetables. 952-3443
Super Flea & Farmer's Market - SW corner of Eau Gallie Blvd and I-95. Fri-Sun 9-4. SuperFleaMarket.com
Best India - Wickham Rd, a block north of Ellis Rd, on the east side. 914-0876. M-Sa 10-8, Su 11-7. BestIndiaFL.com
Dookan - E side of Wickham, just south of Sarno, 255-7561. M-Sa 10-8:30, Su 11-7.
East-Ish Multi-Cultural Food Market - 4910 Stack Blvd, Palm Bay Rd and first light W of Babcock. M-Sa 10-9, Su 11-7. 321-953-3833
Land of Spices - 106 S Babcock St, N of the tracks, on the W side, 723-1803. M-Sa 11-7, Su 1-5.
Asian American Market / Amerasian Cafe & Market - 6165 Babcock St, Palm Bay SE, a block S of Malabar Rd, on the E side. M-Th 10-8 F-Su 10-9. 723-5599. Filipino grocer with variety of Asian items for sale.
Asian Grocery - 3280 W New Haven Ave, Melbourne, 722-5000. Vietnamese or Thai grocer.
Asian Market & Imports - 1985 N Harbor City Blvd (US 1), just N of Aurora Rd, on the E side of US 1 in Melbourne. 259-3151. Mainly Thai.
Hyundai Market - 1507 Aurora Rd, 1/4-mile W of US 1, 757-7622. M-Sa 9-7, Su 12-5. Korean-Chinese grocer with very fresh veggies, Chinese dry-goods for herbal medicine, and some Japanese items.
Jason's Produce Market - 3290 W New Haven Ave, Melbourne, 723-7642. M-Sa 10-7, Su 105, and anytime you see the lights on! Chinese grocer with fresh fruit and vegetables, as wel as some local seafood.
K & C Oriental Market - Aurora Rd, 100' E of Wickham Rd, north side. 254-2575. Daily 9-6. Full range of Oriental products, and very strong on Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Thai. Fresh fish and produce.
Kim's Market - 910 Pinetree Dr, a mile N of Eau Gallie Blvd, N side of Pinetree at A1A, Indian Harbor Beach, 779-2414. Korean grocer. Fresh-made food on Saturday.
Kyung Sung Oriental Market - 690 N Wickham Rd, S of Sarno Rd, W side of road, W Melbourne, 751-9997. Korean.
Melbourne Oriental Market - 2891 W New Haven (US 192), next to Home Depot in W Melbourne. 952-0600. M-Sa 9:30-7, Su 10-6.
Oriental Food Mart - 710 S Patrick Dr, Satellite Beach. 773-7550
Oriental Store - 1326 Malabar Rd, Palm Bay 914-0864. M-Su 9:30a-8p. Filipino.
Oriental Imports & Grocer - 8010 N Atlantic Ave, Cape Canaveral 32920. 799-9381. Filipino grocer just S of the port. Use Google Maps to get a good idea of the location, as it is not on A1A.
Sue's Oriental Market - 635 S Apollo Blvd, 100 feet E of Babcock, on the N side of the road. 725-8688. Thai, with some Japanese and Chinese goods.
Thrifty Specialty Produce - 2135 Palm Bay Rd, N side, W of Woodlake, across from the Fire Dept, at the blinking light. M-Sa 8:30-7, Su 8:30-6. 321-726-8007. Asian, Caribbean, and Hispanic supplies.
Al-Houda - Babcock St, in first shopping center north of Palm Bay Rd, right side. 676-8905. M-Su 11a-2a. Serves meals too.
East-Ish Multi-Cultural Food Market - 4910 Stack Blvd, Palm Bay Rd and first light W of Babcock. M-Sa 10-9, Su 11-7. 321-953-3833
Middle Eastern Aromas - S Babcock St, SW corner of University Blvd (by FIT), now downstairs to the left. M-F 11-11, Sa 11-7, closed Sun. 725-5941. Serves meals too.
Bravo Supermarkets - 2517 Palm Bay Rd, 837-1112, M-F 8-7, Sa 8-8, Su 8-6. Fresh fruit, veggies, pastries, and sandwiches. BravoSupermarkets.com
E&L West Indian-American Grocery - 5108 W Minton Rd, Palm Bay, 409-9226
Jah-Merica Caribbean Restaurant - In a colorful building on the S side of 520, 1/4 mile W of US1. Open 7 days 8a-10p. Closed some Sundays. 631-6550. Try the "fruit" cake, which is more like a spicy bread with some rum-soaked raisins.
Thrifty Specialty Produce - 2135 Palm Bay Rd, N side, W of Woodlake, across from the Fire Dept, at the blinking light. M-Sa 8:30-7, Su 8:30-6. 321-726-8007. Asian, Caribbean, and Hispanic supplies.
Lord Ravenswood Hall - 909 E New Haven Ave, 768-8639. LordRavenswoodHall.com
Auddino's Italian Bakery - 523 Glen Cheek Dr, in Port Canaveral. Tu-Sa 6a-6p, Su 6a-6p. 205-1210. Oil. Fresh breads. Pastries: macaroons, cream puff, biscotti, cannoli, cassata cake, tiramisu, cookies. House-churned gelato. Pizza and sandwiches.
Cerrato's Italian Market & Deli - US 192, 100 yd E of Dairy Rd, N side. M-Sa 10a-7p. 984-3668. Sandwiches, antipasti, baked goods, pastries. CerratosItalianMarketAndDeli.com
Melbourne Beach Market / Oceanside Market - Ocean Ave, Melbourne Beach, 676-5225, 733-4339. M-Sa 8-8, Su 8-6. Prosciutto di parma, deli meats, bread, olives, wine, oil, fresh pastries. MelbourneBeachMarket.com
Pane E Vino Restaurant - 1800 W Hibiscus St, in a fancy strip shopping center, to the left of the Oaks 10 movie theater. 676-5499. Good selection of meats, cheeses, breads, and pastries. sunday buffet.
Portabella Ristorante - 4657 South US1, E side of the road in Peddler's Village, 1/4 mile S of Barnes Blvd (which goes to I-95), Rockledge. Tu-Th 11-4 & 5-9, Fr 11-3 & 5-9, Sa 5-9. 638-0140. Small Italian grocery store in the lobby.
Pumpernickel's Delicatessen - German food worth the drive. Tremendous selection of desserts. Small deli/grocer in lobby. Titusville, SW of Searstown Mall. 2850 S. Hopkins Ave. M-Sa 8-9, Su 8-2. 268-5160
Euro Deli - 192 and Wickham, in NW shopping center. M-Sa 10-8, Sun 12-6. 220-4818. EuroDeliMelbourneFL.com
Downtown Produce Market - Ellis Rd. M-Sa 9-6, 308-0275 DowntownProduceMarket.com
Green Turtle Market - 855 E Eau Gallie, Indian Harbor Beach, 773-2001. GreenTurtleMarket.com
Petty's Meat Market - 1600 S Babcock St, 1/4 mile N of 192, 725-0400. Second store at 6115 N Wickham Rd, 752-0400. Extensive meats, cheeses, deli, and bakery. PettysMeatMarket.com
There are plenty of grocers, especially around Colonial Drive and Mills. We always start with Dong-A Co at 816 Mills Rd, 407-898-9227, since they have a massive selection of fresh, frozen, and packaged goods. We had to buy a large ice chest since it is more than an hour away. See the link at the bottom of this page for more info on Orlando.
Jan - Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival
Jan-Feb - Ethnic Heritage Festival at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 300 Malabar Road SE, Palm Bay, 725-3066. Asian, European, and South American food on Sunday starting somewhere between 12 and 2.
Feb - Chowder Cook-Off in Port Canaveral, 454-2022.
Feb - India Festival: The big event. Wickham Park Pavillion, Melbourne.
Feb - Grant Seafood Festival
Feb-Mar - Greek Festival at St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, 5965 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, 254-1045.
Feb-Mar - Jumbalaya Jam in celebration of Mardi Gras, at the Wickham Park Pavillion in Melbourne, 633-4028.
Mar-Apr - Songkran Festival at Eau Gallie Civic Center, and another at the Thai Temple.
Apr - Space Coast Seafood Festival
May - SpringFest at Space Coast Stadium.
May - Caribbean Jamboree at Palm Bay Regional Park. 728-2558
Sep - Grant BBQ Fest
Oct - Oktoberfest at the Wickham Park Pavillion, Melbourne, 633-4028.
Dec - Melbourne PowWow at Melbourne Wickham Park Pavilion. The traditional gathering celebrates American Indian culture through dancing, music, food, exhibits, and demonstrations. Cuisine includes buffalo, elk and venison burgers, fry bread, and bison cheese steak.
Year-Round
Florida Barbecue Association Contests
South Indian Festivals
We have another page called
Orlando Restaurants & Grocers
.
Check out Chowhound.com for extensive discussions about restaurants.
Note: This page was started in 1984, and is updated a little bit every month or so.
Last Revision Apr 22, 2012
http://PerpetualTravel.com/marc/brevrest.html