5 Brevard Lunch Tips

Located on the eastern coast of Florida, Brevard County is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and an array of culinary delights that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. For those looking to explore the best of Brevard during lunch, here are five invaluable tips to enhance your dining experience, each woven with a unique blend of local insights and expert recommendations.

1. Explore the Local Seafood Scene

Brevard’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean means that fresh seafood is a staple of many local menus. From succulent shrimp and scallops to fresh catches of the day, the seafood in Brevard is not only delicious but also sustainably sourced in many cases. Restaurants like Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar in Melbourne and Dollar Willie’s Beach Bar in Cape Canaveral offer an array of seafood options that are sure to satisfy any seafood lover. Consider starting your meal with a sampling of their fresh seafood appetizers, such as grilled shrimp skewers or conch fritters, before moving on to a main course like seafood paella or a seafood tower. A particularly insightful approach is to pair your meal with a side of local knowledge, such as the best times to visit the beach or hidden spots for nature lovers.

2. Visit Local Eateries with a Cultural Twist

Beyond seafood, Brevard County boasts a diverse culinary landscape influenced by various cultures. For a truly unique lunch experience, consider visiting restaurants that blend traditional cuisine with local flavors. A prime example is the Kennedy Point Yacht Club in Merritt Island, known for its exquisite view and dishes that blend Caribbean and American influences. Their jerk chicken sandwich, served with a side of island-inspired slaw, is a must-try. Another great option is Crush Eleven in Cocoa Village, which combines international flavors with a contemporary twist, offering dishes like chicken tikka masala tacos that are both familiar and innovative.

3. Delve into the World of Food Trucks

For a more casual and adventurous lunch experience, Brevard’s food truck scene is thriving and offers a wide range of culinary delights. From gourmet grilled cheese to authentic Mexican cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Events like the monthly Food Truck Festival in Cocoa Beach gather a variety of these trucks in one place, making it easy to sample several different cuisines in one visit. Be sure to check the schedule and arrive early, as these events are popular among locals and visitors alike. An expert tip is to follow your favorite food trucks on social media to stay updated on their schedules and special offerings.

4. Enjoy Lunch with a View

One of the unique advantages of dining in Brevard is the opportunity to enjoy your meal while taking in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean or the Indian River. Restaurants like The Fat Snook in Cocoa Beach and Coconuts on the Beach in Cape Canaveral offer outdoor seating areas where you can watch the waves while savoring your meal. For a more secluded experience, consider packing a lunch and visiting one of Brevard’s many parks or beaches, such as the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary in Titusville or the Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach. These spots provide a serene backdrop for a picnic lunch, complete with nature trails and scenic overlooks.

5. Support Local Farmers and Markets

For those interested in exploring the local food scene beyond restaurants, Brevard County is home to several farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. The Cocoa Beach Farmers’ Market, held every Thursday, and the Titusville Farmers’ Market, which takes place on Fridays, offer a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods. These markets are not only great places to find ingredients for a homemade lunch but also support local farmers and artisans. An additional tip for visitors is to check the market schedules in advance, as they may vary seasonally, and to come prepared with reusable bags and a list of the freshest items to purchase.

Conclusion

Lunch in Brevard County is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines local cuisine, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, an adventurous eater, or someone who appreciates a meal with a view, Brevard has something to offer. By exploring the local seafood scene, visiting eateries with a cultural twist, delving into the world of food trucks, enjoying lunch with a view, and supporting local farmers and markets, you can create a lunch experience in Brevard that is both memorable and delicious.

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