Nestled along State Road A1A is the small town of Cocoa Beach. At just over 15 miles in size, this town is more than digging your feet into the sand, listening to or surfing the waves, or even watching a rocket launch into space. Come here to tantalize your taste buds at some of the best restaurants in Cocoa Beach! Don’t be afraid to dine in a shopping mall or show up in sandals as this beach town cares more about their food than location and style. The options are plentiful and the variety is wide, so I hope you have some time to enjoy them all, because choosing will be your hardest decision.
For the best breakfast in town, go to Simply Delicious where you may have to stand in a line on the weekends (unless you’re an early bird), but it’s worth the wait! Everything here is fresh, but the baked items are their speciality, from bread and biscuits to cookies and cakes. Main dishes are a variety of spreads depending on the season for whatever type of fresh carb you’ve paired with your meal. The omelettes are big enough for two and you get to customize them with whichever veggies, cheeses and meats your heart desires. There are also plenty of other classic options like eggs benedict or quiche to choose from as well.
Looking for lunch? Head downtown where you can enjoy casual dining or a quick to-go at any of these establishments, then walk to the beach and enjoy!
Get the freshest coffee in town at Juice n Java Cafe and stay for a great panini sandwich and soup or a salad. Heck, even come back at night for a glass of wine and a little dessert, too!
Just off the main road is the best vegan food in town at Green Room Cafe, where the grilled wraps, fresh juices, and acai bowls will leave you feeling satisfied but wanting more.
Tiny Turtle packs a punch with their Caribbean flavored food! Try anything sofrito style and you’ll understand why there’s nothing tiny but the name at this place.
Skinny Mermaid is a newer spot that sits just south of the fire station and has a constantly-growing menu. The build-your-own poke bowls come just as you like them, customized with your choice of base, whichever meat, veggies and even some fruits you’d like.
You’ve come to Florida and want to soak up every ounce of sunshine possible, but you’re hungry. What to do? Many places have outdoor seating, but these have the best outdoor dining options in town.
Jazzy’s Mainely Lobster will give you all of the crustacean options you can imagine on your plate or buy from the case to cook at home. You can dine outside under the large tiki hut or inside at their new bar area.
Many people flock to Coconuts on the Beach for drinks, live music, and people watching as it’s the only restaurant in town with an oceanfront view. It’s perfect for all of that and some good food. An assortment of appetizers is the perfect way to go here.
Spend your Taco Tuesday at Sandbar Sports Grill for the best fish tacos in the city and at half price, the blackened fish or shrimp tacos will make you want to order more than your stomach can handle.
Want to catch the game, but your taste buds deserve more? These better than bar food spots will have you wanting to go back anytime.
Craving fish n’chips? Nolan’s Irish Pub has you covered with an authentic taste of Ireland in their half pound of fried Atlantic cod and pub fries.
The menu at Coasters Taphouse has a delicious twist on some classics and something for everyone in your party with a large selection and constantly changing specials.
You came to Cocoa Beach for local food, not the stuff from a chain, and the pizza game is strong in Cocoa Beach. With many places to choose from, there’s really only two that matter and it comes down to style and whether you want to share or not.
At Mangia & Bevi Pizzeria any choice you make is the right one for what to eat. The owners came from Naples, Italy and they brought the recipe for the best pizza in the world with them! You won’t want to share as each pie is four, thin slices with a pillowy yet crispy crust that you’ll crave later.
Bruno’s gets the prize for best New York style pizza in this city with their fresh ingredients and pies up to 18” to share with friends and family.
Many people come to Florida to share the food from their home countries and I’m so glad they have. These Latin-inspired restaurants bring more than just a taste of home.
For some flavors unlike many other places and seafood that is caught by the owner and chef every Sunday, go to El Buzo! The ceviche may be the best you’ve ever had and make you want to visit Peru yourself or just keep coming here for more.
Mexico’s Grill will serve you up with authentic Mexican street-style tacos and so much more. Being close to the beach it’s great for lunch, dinner, or even a quick take-out order.
For a large menu of food and drinks sure to satisfy any picky eater, try La Catrina and ask for Martin to get the best service and drinks!
Taco City is a local favorite and a true Tex-Mex original flavor. The appetizer of fireballs, an order of chings Jr’s style, and deep-fried hard shell beef tacos are all something you won’t find elsewhere and are must-try items.
Looking for somewhere to get a good bottle of wine, dimmed lights, and some of the best food in town? These four restaurants have original recipes and flavors that will make you want Date Night every night with your special somone because everything is delicious! Be sure to get a reservation ahead of time or you may not get in.
Sage Bistro isn’t technically in Cocoa Beach, but it’s so close it counts. This mother-son owned and operated restaurant nestled just off A1A, hidden under the trees is one of the best all-around menus you’ll find in the area. If you’re lucky, you’ll dine on a night when they have mushroom chardonnay soup and turn any non-fungi lover into a believer.
While it may be the smallest restaurant in the city, Fat Kahuna’s is a prominent one . After living in Hawaii, this husband and wife owner brought back the best flavors to share and treat you like family while you’re there. I highly recommend planning this one out as it’s usually booked at least a week in advance.
Hidden just one street off of A1A, the mother-daughter duo at Pompano Grill have dialed in the combination of savory and sweet in this must-visit restaurant. If there’s a special, get it! Mother Jacqueline used to bake sweets for restaurants in the area, so be sure to save room after your meal for dessert.
Florida’s Fresh Grill is the only one on this list where you can only call ahead to get on the list, not get a reservation. Head here if you want to join others at a bustling spot almost any night of the week. This is also a great spot for a double-date.
Craving something sweet? Whether it’s pie or ice cream or both, these two dessert spots have just what you need.
The Fat Donkey has the best homemade ice cream and twists that will make you curious enough to try something different. Have it in a cookie cone or go zonk-wild and layer soft serve with sorbet, or maybe try a dessert jar. It’s all sure to satisfy that sweet craving.
Never been to Florida and want to try key lime pie? Check out The Florida Key Lime Pie Company. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, smooth and tart. You can also check out their store for a variety of other key lime flavored items and more. Plus, if you can make it between 2-6:00pm on a Saturday, you might round out your Florida visit by seeing “Sweetie” the alligator!
Hopefully, this list satisfies your cravings and prevents anyone in your party from getting hangry in the decision-making process of which place to choose first. Enjoy and happy eating!
There are many other great restaurants in Cocoa Beach and I encourage you to check them out, even though they didn’t make this list.
Being a self-proclaimed foodie and resident of Cocoa Beach for many years, these recommendations are based on my personal opinion of consistent taste from the food and great service provided at these restaurants. I am not paid by nor affiliated with any of these restaurants.