World Beat Cafe - Menu is 30-40 tapas appetizers. West side of Wickham, halfway between Post Road and Parkway Road, next to Atlanta Bread Co. M-Th 11-10, F-Sa 11-11, Su 4-9. 751-6304, WorldBeatCafe.net
Taste of India - Good selection of mostly southern Indian dishes, which is hard to find. 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 Nan, Mango Lassi, and the Masala Tea. Mango ice cream reminded us of our six months in 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
Thai Kitchen - A nice couple serves excellent Thai food. The woman ran a restaurant in Thailand before, cooking the recipes her grandma taught her. There are a variety of homemade sauces on the table, besides the ones that come with the meal. Chowhounders will be glad to know that she will prepare it Thai-style if you ask, and will probably cook anything you request, if she has the ingredients on hand. 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
Islamorada - Senor Pinero has a great menu worth exploring. Start off with Cuban coffee or a mango shake. The roast lamb shank is the best we have had anywhere. Sometimes they serve seared, sesame-seed-covered, sushi-grade tuna with a mango sauce. Other nice meals: roast pork (to die for); crab cakes with papaya-mango sauce; coconut mahi-mahi with orange-dijon mustard sauce; sweet coconut chicken breast topped with coconut, raisins, pineapple, and toasted almonds; arroz con pollo (chicken and rice); mofongo (mashed plaintains with pork). Side orders: the yuca is prepared perfectly, as are the plaintains and the black bean soup. Conch fritter appetizers. They also serves Cuban sandwiches. For dessert, tres leches or the flan (try the coconut version). They are in the large shopping center on the west side of Wickham Rd, north of Pineda and south of Suntree Blvd. Tu-F 11-2:30, Tu-Sa 4:30-9:30. Small establishment with no reservations, so try to miss prime time. 253-8205
Kabob Middle Eastern Cuisine - The food improved suddenly when these guys took over a few years ago. It is also a very comfortable place to relax and talk with friends, while sipping an endless supply of sweet sage tea. The decor is continually evolving, and looks decidely upscale at this point, along with the dinner prices. They have a good variety of Middle Eastern meals and pita wraps, including shawarma, shish tawook, and falafel. However, always ask what they have prepared special for that day; they start serving around noon, and can run out sometime in the late afternoon or early evening. One of our favorites is the charbroiled rack of lamb. The kafta kabob in yogurt sauce is another worth trying. Also on the grill are the eggplants, which is why the baba ghannouj has a nice smoky flavor. If you still have room, they have an excellent homemade kanafa, a hard-to-find dessert of cheese in bulgar wheat. If you appreciate good baklava, take one of those to go too. They are in the SW corner of Babcock and Palm Bay Rd, facing Palm Bay Rd, across the street from Staples, a few shops west of Blockbuster in the strip mall. M-Sa 11-10, Su 2-9. 984-0058
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
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
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. Friendly bunch there too. Visit the Latin grocery store a few doors down. 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
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. Tu-Sa 4-9. 723-6555
Roberto's Little Havana - Excellent 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. Open 7 days 6a-3p. Tu-Th 5-9, F-Sa 5-10, Su 5-9. 784-1868
Bellwood - Delicious Polish selection: Perogis, Golabki, Goulash, and fine desserts. Moved to Titusville. Tu-Sa 8-9, Su 8-2. 385-3232
Siam Orchid - Thai & Sushi. One in Melbourne on NASA, just east of Babcock, 729-6383. The other is at 762 21st St, Vero Beach (US1 & Miracle Mile). M-F 11-2:30, 4:30-10. Sa 12-2:30, 5-10, Su 4:30-9:30. 772-569-2829
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. Open 7 days 11-10. Bar till 12 or 1 F-Sa. 253-1369, Katannas.com
Bonefish Willy's Riverfront Grille - Nice place for seafood, even if expensive (coupons in TGIF). Indoor restaurant and outdoor deck on the river. 2459 Pineapple Ave, east of US1, a mile north of Eau Gallie Blvd, M-Sa 11:30-10, Su 12-9. 253-8888
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
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
Skewers (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
Cedars Cafe - Standard Lebanese menu: Shawarma, Kibbi, Hummus, Babaganouj, Falafel, Gyros, Kafta, Shish Taouk. Tu-Sa 11-9. On the west side of Wickham, just north of Post Road, 751-0000. CedarsCafe.com
Middle Eastern Aromas - Friendly Lebanese couple serve authentic fresh ingredients at low prices. Good lunch specials. A few tables in the foodstore. Shawarma, Mint Tea, Turkish Coffee. Southwest corner of Babcock & University, (by FIT), upstairs, on the right. M-F 11-11, Sa 11-7, closed Sun. 725-5941
Pita Pit - Good and large standard and build-your-own sandwiches and smoothies. On the SW corner of US1 and New Haven, a block S of 192. Opening another in Palm Bay. M-Th 8am-10pm, F 8am-3am. Sa 10:30am-3am. Su 10:30am-8pm. 724-2759 pitapitusa.com and YourPitaPit.com
Jason's Deli - Sandwiches, salads, and soups, including muffalettas, po'boys, and gumbo. All-u-can-eat salad bar is a very good deal. 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. Three 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. 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 Avenues, M-Th 11-9, F-Sa 11-10. 633-0397, PizzaGalleryAndGrill.com
Bizarro's Famous New York Pizza - The real thing, and at the beach. Possibly the best pizza in Florida. 4 Wave Crest Ave, Indialantic. NE corner of A1A and Fifth Ave (US 192, which is Exit 71 on I-95), 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
Olympia Cafe - Friendly couple serve nice Greek breakfast and lunch. 192, a block east of Babcock, right side. M-F 7-3, Sa 8-3. 722-9050
Trinabago Roti Shop & West Indian Restaurant - Trinadadian curries, roti, and oxtail stew. West side of Babock, a few blocks south of Palm Bay Rd, by Pizza Hut. M-Th 10:30-9, F-Sa 11-10. 727-0881
Ay! Jalisco - Good family-owned Mexican place. Crab enchiladas have become a fattening habit. Fresh chips and nice salsa. 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.
Cactus Flower - Pleasant Mexican restaurant indoors, as well as deck on the river with wonderful view. 1891 E Merritt Island, E of Merritt Mall and N Banana River Dr, on the SW side of the second bridge west of A1A. Tu-Th 11-9:30, F-Sa 11-10, Su 11?-8. 452-6606
El Charro's - Comfortable, family-owned Mexican place with good selection of food. 916 Florida Ave, SW of Cocoa Village, east of US1. M-Sa 11-3, 5-10. 639-1004, BrevardMenus.com/ElCharro.htm
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. M-Sa 11-10, Su 12-9:30. Second one at West side of Wickham Road, a block south of Sarno, 242-5966
Asi Es Colombia - Extensive menu. Outstanding habanero salsa. Take a close look at the drinks and desserts. Good music. Friendly staff. South side of Palm Bay Rd, two blocks west of Babcock. Left side of Jerky's. M-F 11-8, Sa-Su 9a-Midnight. 725-0954
Green Banana Cafe - Cuban sandwiches, and traditional Cuban and Puerto Rican specialties. Palm Bay Rd, E of Babcock about 200 yds, on N side of rd, just W of light at Knecht. M-F 11-3:30. 722-2101
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
Sun Shoppe & Cafe - Meals, sandwiches, pastries, smoothies, ice cream, and a variety of coffees. In the historic downtown area, at south end of New Haven. M-Sa 8a-Midnight. 676-1438.
Panera Bread - Good variety of bread, pastries, sandwiches, and soup in a bakery cafe. One on west side of Wickham, just north of Post Road. Behind RJ Gators, in north end of shopping center. Another in SE corner of Eau Gallie Blvd and Riverside Dr. M-F 6:30a-10:30p, 6:30a-8:30p. 259-2055, PaneraBread.com
RJ Gators Florida Bar & Grill - Nice variety of good food in a fun atmosphere. Conch Fritters and Coconut Shrimp a must. Excellent Chicken Fingers, Ribs, and Burgers. Need to check out the rest of the menu and fill this space in. One on the west side of Wickham, just north of Post Road, 751-3580. M-Th 11-12, F-Sa 11-2, Su 11-10. RJGators.com
Toojay's Original Gourmet Deli - Jewish deli with good food in huge portions and phenomenal desserts. Miracle Mile in Vero, 772-659-9011; and three in Orlando. Toojays.com
Red Lobster - Unlimited soup, salad, and drink for $5. Good gumbo, excellent clam, but discontinued unbelievably rich and delicious porcini 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. 868-2226
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. One in Port Canaveral is now Bryan's Portside. It is open after 5 on weekdays, and after noon on weekends. 799-4349
Crab Heaven - Specializes in blue crab. 6910 A1A, Cape Canaveral. Su-Th 11-9, F-Sa 11-10. 449-1233
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. Open 7 days 11-10. 268-5000, nbbd.com/DixieCrossroads
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
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.
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
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
Roadhouse Grill - Similar to Outback and Chilis, but better. West side of Evans/Hollywood Blvd, one block north of 192, west of the Melbourne Mall. Su-Th 11-10, F-Sa 11-11. 728-1023. Another in Titusville on Columbia Rd, 267-2408, RoadhouseGrill.com
Longhorn Steakhouse - 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
Woody's BBQ - South side of 192, by Publix, quarter mile west of the Melbourne Mall, Su-Th 11-9:30, F-Sa 11-10:30. 951-9163; North side of Malabar Rd, two blocks west of I-95, 726-8804; A1A Indialantic, 779-8002
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-F 11-5, Sa 11-4, 254-5776. Other at south end of historic downtown area, on east side of New Haven; M 11-4, Tu-Sa 11-8, Su 11-4, 951-3469. MustardsInc.com
Ranch House - US1, between 520 and 528, east side. RanchHouse.com
There are probably 40 more that I will never get to, so have a look at the list from Space Coast Living.
Lafitte's - 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
Bernard's Surf - Reknowned seafood restaurant. Nice service and atmosphere. West side of northbound A1A in Cocoa Beach. Open 7 days 11-11. 783-2401, BernardsSurf.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
Portabella Ristorante - Thorough menu. Huge portions. Wonderful staff and atmosphere, unless there is a loud guitar player that night. They make all pasta and bread fresh daily. When they say spicy, they mean it. Wait till you see the dessert tray. Small Italian grocery store in the lobby. 4657 South US1, east side of the road in Peddler's Village, 1/4 mile south 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 brevardmenus.com/Portabella.htm
Yianni's Deli Restaurant - Lively Greek owner serves breakfast and lunch. Wide variety of large sandwiches, but at a higher cost. Wonderful soups and best Tiramisu ever bit into. 2897 W. New Haven Ave (192) in the Home Depot Plaza, M-Sa 8-4, Su 8-3. 724-6644
Grape Leaf Cafe & Grill - Variety of international dishes, primarily Greek and Middle Eastern, in large portions at good prices. Try the Kafta Kabobs, two skewers of marinated and charbroiled beef, chicken, or lamb, accompanied by a flavorful brown rice that has lentils in it; comes with a Greek Salad that is topped with a creamy, low-salt feta. The Mousaka was very good. The Veggie Platter sampler is another good choice: the hummus is rich with garlic, as is the smoky babaganouj. Other items on the menu: spinach pizza, spinach pie, bruschetta, fajitas, quesadillas, falafel, or fettucini. They are very busy at lunch serving sandwiches to the Harris crowd across the street, but quiet and comfortable at night. East end of Palm Bay Rd, to the right of Circle K. M-Sa 11-9. 729-6322
Casablanca Mediterranean Grill - See Grape Leaf Cafe & Grill, since they are brothers, and have the same menu. NW corner of Ocean Blvd and A1A, a 1/4 mile S of Pineda Blvd, Satellite Beach. 777-1019.
Tutti Italia Market & Eatery - Good sandwiches, great pastries. NE corner of Babcock and Palm Bay Rd (next to Outback). M-Th 9-6, F-Sa 9-7, Su 10-2. 725-6082
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
Haru Sushi Bar & Grill - Upscale Japanese restaurant that serves Korean dishes Bulgoki, Kalbi, and Bibimbab. NE corner of Wickham and 192. M-F 11:30-2:30, M-Su 5-10. 676-5159 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. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sa 11-11, Su 12-9:30. 773-7272
Asian Gourmet - Vietnamese & Thai. Pleasant staff uses a good selection of better quality vegetables than most restaurants. Next to Nature's Market on US1, one mile south of Eau Gallie, two miles north of 192. M-Th 11-2:30, 5-9, Fri 11-2:30, 5-10, Sa 5-10. 255-6471
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
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 not to our liking. Excellent island-style sweet potato pudding (pie) and ginger drink. Has snapper also. 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 11-7, Sa 1-8. 676-4412
Indian & Caribbean Kitchen - Guyanese-Trini style polorie, plantain, samosas, beef patties, doubles (chickpeas), goat curry, oxtail, biryani, tanddori, and tikkas. S Babcock St, SW corner of University Blvd (by FIT), upstairs to the right. M-Sa 10a-11p. 724-6131.
Reid's Tropical Scoop - Very rich ice cream, including Grape Nut, Rum Raisin, Rummy Nut, Coconut, Mango, Guava, and Soursop/Guanabana. Also serve Jamaican meals. 1504 Palm Bay Rd in the building to the right of Jerky's. M-Sa 10-10, Su 2-9. 956-4119
Kappy's Cafe - Cajun sandwich. 7025 N Wickham, Suntree Station next to 7 Eleven. Tu-F 6:30-8, Sa 7-4. 255-0991Atlanta Bread Co - Extensive variety of bread and soup in a bakery cafe, but we prefer Panera and Yianni's. West side of Wickham, halfway between Post Road and Parkway Road. M-F 6:30a-9p, Sa 6:30a-9p, Su 6:30a-8p. 242-8655. Another on Palm Bay Rd, just west of Babcock, 952-3393. AtlantaBread.com
Colossus - 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
S&S Middle Eastern Bakery - Basic Lebanese selection. 1309 S. Washington Ave, just before the light where US1 splits when heading north in Titusville. M-Sa 8-8, but may close early some nights. 269-0702
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
Bamboo Panda - One of the few Chinese restaurants we go to. South side of 192, half mile west of the Melbourne Mall. M-Th 11-9:30, F-Sa 11-10:30, Su 12-9:30. 727-3001
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.
King's Chinese Buffet - Similar. NE corner of Babcock and Nasa (behind Hooters). M-Th 11-10, F-Sa 11-10:30, Su 11-10. 952-9189, 952-3616
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 - $6 lunch, $8 dinner. 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
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. Thai Thai 2 is on A1A at Paradise Beach Shooping Center, behind Ichabod's. Thai Thai 3 is in Cape Canaveral. M-F 11:30-2:30, 4:30-10, Sa 12-10, Su 4:30-9:30. 253-2353
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
Amerasian Cafe & Market - Philipines grocery with variety of Asian items for sale. Food is good, prices are great. People are fun. There are three tables and a bar to one side of the store, and it might be karaoke night every night. Nightly specials: Mon: Dinoguan / Fried Galongong; Tues: Menudo, Eskabeche'n Isda; Wed: Chicken Apritada / Fried Bangus; Thur: Chicken or Pork Adobo; Fri: Pancit, Okoy; Sat: Roast Pork / Litson; Sun: Cuban Night with Chicken or Beef Stew, Pork Chops, Plantains, etc. Menu also has Grilled Chicken, Fajitas, Salmon, Catfish, Nasi Goreng, Teriyaki Chicken, Stir-Fry Veggies, Hamburgers, Sandwiches, Philly Cheesesteak, Lumpias, Siapao, and Halo Halo. Babcock St, block south of Malabar. M-Th 10-8 F-Su 10-9. 723-5599
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 - 815 E Strawbridge Ave, 3 blocks W of US 1, S side. 724-0535.
GrimaldiCandies.com
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.
Nosh & Ganache - Cafe, Chocolatier, Caterer. Luncheon M-Sa 11-3. Indoor and garden dining. 1540 Highland Ave, 254-1451. NoshAndGanache.com
Super Flea & Farmer's Market - SW corner of Eau Gallie Blvd and I-95. Fri-Sun 9-4. SuperFleaMarket.com
Palm Bay City Hall Grounds - Oct-May, 2nd Saturday of the month, 8am-3pm. Plants, fresh fruit & vegetables. 952-3443
Best India - Moved to the W side of Wickham, 1/4 mile south of Sarno, in the shopping center to the right of Taste of India, next to Frankie's Wings & Things.
Land of Spice - 106 S Babcock St, N of the tracks, on the W side, 723-1803
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 grocer.
Hyundai Market - 1389 Cypress Blvd, a block W of US 1, and 50 feet N of Eau Gallie Blvd. 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.
K & C Oriental Market - NE corner of Wickham Rd and Aurora Rd, 254-2575. Daily 9-6.Thai grocer with full range of Oriental products. 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.
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 9:30-6:30, Su 10-5.
Oriental Food Mart - 710 S Patrick Dr, Satellite Beach. 773-7550
Oriental Imports & Grocer - 8010 N Atlantic Ave, Cape Canaveral 32920. 799-9381. Filipino grocer just S of the port. Use MapsOnUs.com to get a good idea of the location, as it is not on A1A.
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.
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.
Tokyo Food Market - 1703 N Wickham Rd, SE corner of Aurora Rd, in same shopping center as Thai Kitchen. 254-9317. Only carries Japanese products.
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.
S&S Middle Eastern Bakery - 1309 S. Washington Ave, just before the light where US1 splits when heading N in Titusville. M-Sa 8-8, but may close early some nights. 269-0702. Good Lebanese selection.
Compare Supermarket of Palm Bay - 2517 Palm Bay Rd, 837-1112. Fresh fruit, veggies, pastries, and sandwiches.
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.
Latin Grocery - 4970 Stack Blvd, in the strip mall at Stack Blvd and Palm Bay Rd, two blocks W of Babcock, behind Atlanta Bread. 676-1720. Fresh fruit and veggies. Caribbean products also.
Lord Ravenswood Hall - 909 E New Haven Ave, 768-8639. LordRavenswoodHall.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.
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. BrevardMenus.com/Portabella.htm
Tutti Italia Market & Eatery - Good sandwiches, great pastries. NE corner of Babcock and Palm Bay Rd (next to Outback). M-Th 9-6, F-Sa 9-7, Su 10-2. 725-6082
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
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.
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, stkatherine@bellsouth.net.
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.
May - SpringFest at Space Coast Stadium.
Sep - Caribbean Fest at the First Presbyterian Church of Palm Bay, 1080 Port Malabar Bvd NE, Palm Bay, 725-8484.
Sep - Q-Fest in Grant.
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 started in 1992. It won't change too much for a couple years, as we are wandering the planet again. We would be glad to link to similar non-commercial, Chowhoundish pages, as well as make corrections, so please mail us.
Marc & Karin Brosius