In a city where crispy, saucy wings are practically a local sport, Melbourne’s top spots turn poultry into perfection. Each restaurant proudly sources its chicken from trusted Florida farms, with some menus listing a dozen partner producers. We really do love our wings—and the hands that prepare them.
So-Ju Chikn’
$ | (321) 610-4328 | WEBSITE
This compact, anime-themed spot that’s tucked away in a Melbourne strip mall is usually buzzing, which is perfect if you want to feel the energy of a manga convention or have an excuse to share a table with strangers. (If you’d rather avoid that, try to grab one of the few booths along the wall where there’s a bit more breathing room.) The menu focuses on things like massive chicken tenders with Da Red Sauce and Honey Sriracha Chicken, most of which are easy to split with a friend.
Naturally, the sauces skew bold, and there are affordable highlights, like the buffalo sauce that’s named after its fiery kick. The counter running along the open kitchen is an ideal spot to eat solo, but we also like bringing a group to pick at some mochi waffles (the lunch combo was a recent standout) before catching a movie at the nearby theater or heading to the beach.
Coasters Pub & Biergarten
$ | (321) 779-2739 | WEBSITE
Melbourne’s coastal charm meets pub culture at Coasters, and this spot delivers exactly what you want from a local watering hole. The place feels like a proper biergarten with its long line of craft beer pumps and that great little outdoor space, creating a very good atmosphere where you can actually hear your friends talk. You should probably order a flight of local brews while you’re here.
Stick to the pub classics like the fish and chips with perfectly crispy batter, truffle fries that are dangerously addictive, or the fried flounder sandwich that’s become a regular’s favorite. The reggae shrimp and buffalo cauliflower show they’re not afraid to have fun with the menu either. After your meal, grab another pint in the beer garden and soak in that positive vibe everyone keeps talking about—it’s clear why locals say they’ve never had a bad meal here.
Pizza hut
$ | (321) 421-2034 | WEBSITE
For years after they opened in Suntree, getting a pizza delivered hot and on time from Pizza Hut was like striking gold. But since they’ve perfected their online ordering system, it’s a bit easier. The menu at Pizza Hut stays consistent with NY style pizza, delivered with a smile. You might order something like a pepperoni pizza with extra cheese, or tasty wings with just the right amount of crisp, thanks to their reliable preparation.
But a steady staple is the DIY pizza—if you want to taste the best of the best when it comes to customization, choose your favorite toppings and add Cinnabons on the side. Weekends get busy with delivery orders, so try for a carry-out on a weeknight if you don’t want to deal with the wait.
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings
$ | (321) 327-2209 | WEBSITE
A classic cheesesteak spot that’s been serving Melbourne since 2018, Charleys offers a straightforward menu focused on their signature sandwiches and wings. We like it most for their $14 cheesesteaks, made with fresh ingredients on those perfectly crunchy-soft buns, the best being their classic Philly-style version.
The space is pretty no-frills, but still works for something like a quick lunch break or a casual weekend dinner, especially since anybody could probably find something satisfying from their limited but well-executed menu. The wings like the Lemon Pepper Rub are good, too, and have just the right amount of flavor to please even keto-focused customers.
Papa Johns Pizza
$ | (321) 777-7274 | WEBSITE
Papa John’s has been serving Melbourne since before the city became such a pizza destination. A lot of chain spots have come and gone, but this is still the place for a reliable dinner where you can grab some solid slices with a generous topping of pepperoni. This is one of those places where the manager will personally step in when you’re asking about an order.
Those are usually handled quickly, and so is the service from team members like Eric, who delivers pizzas right to your car with a smile, plus consistent pies that rival some of the best local joints. (Our experience, not theirs). Try to catch Eric when he’s working, where the atmosphere feels a bit more positive.
Slices Pizza & Italian Kitchen
$ | (321) 425-6101 | WEBSITE
If this family-run spot changed even a little, regulars would protest. It’s been a Melbourne favorite for years, and is one of the few Italian kitchens that still feels genuinely homemade. Everything on the menu tastes like a family recipe, like the spaghetti with meat sauce and meatball that comes in generous portions, or the stromboli with pepperoni, which is the best we’ve ever had.
It’s crispy on the outside, packed with flavorful toppings, and takes about twenty minutes to bake because, well, good things take time. The cozy atmosphere, clean setting, and friendly staff lend themselves perfectly to a casual lunch or dinner with family.
Planet Grilled Cheese – Melbourne
$ | (813) 382-8935 | WEBSITE
This spot is where you go for a grilled cheese with a generous portion of melted cheddar and a side of crispy bacon. It’s worth the quick wait to grab a seat at the simple counter, watching staff whip up your sandwich. Or, if you’re lucky, snag one of the cozy indoor tables, surrounded by the warm aroma of toasting bread.
To go with that grilled cheese, we usually opt for one of their signature options like the Chicken Bacon Ranch or the Ultimate Club, made with tender chicken and that amazing, gooey cheese that tastes just like home.
Smokey Bones Melbourne
$ | (321) 951-9777 | WEBSITE
Melbourne does in fact have its own style of barbecue—the tender, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs are a signature dish that’s been perfected over the years. The best versions come from this established restaurant that’s become brighter and more navigable even at night. The same commitment to clean atmosphere and conversation-friendly dining is still maintained today. In other words, leave the experimental, overly complicated dishes to the trendy newcomers.
Grab a table in the dining area and start digging into the must-try Big Mag Nachos before savoring those flavorful ribs. The friendly and knowledgeable staff provide quick, courteous service that makes the experience memorable. Also, while the food is generally praised, there have been occasional inconsistencies—like one customer reporting longer wait times—but overall it remains a great spot to enjoy a satisfying meal.
Hooters
$ | (321) 725-7409 | WEBSITE
The best way to experience Hooters, a lively local spot in Melbourne, is the classic fire chicken and boneless wings with your choice of sauces, where the double oaked Woodford old-fashioned and whatever special they’re pouring really shine. The restaurant has been a staple for years in a bustling commercial area and everything about this place screams fun: there are multiple big-screen TVs and more sports memorabilia than we can count.
Save this spot for when you want to unwind with friends or need a reliable meal after a long day, and ask for a table near the bar so you can take the whole lively atmosphere in.
Domino’s Pizza
$ | (321) 952-3030 | WEBSITE
Melbourne isn’t exactly a pizza destination, but Domino’s Pizza is. The counter in this local spot has everything from classic pepperoni and cheesy bread, to pasta with a generous amount of chicken and sauce that’s a reliably good version of what you’d find at city pizzerias. If you’re looking for something convenient, use their online ordering system. But there’s no need to worry about timing. Unlike other delivery chains, this one has a restaurant-sized parking lot.
In the evening, grab your pizza through their leave-at-the-door service to feel like you’re getting a hot, fresh pie with tasty toppings—not dealing with the hassle of traditional takeout in Florida.
Ford’s Garage Viera
$$ | (321) 405-3673 | WEBSITE
This all-day, Viera restaurant has a bustling garage-themed space, but tables are usually available, and you should seek them out for one of the area’s best casual meals. The $16.99 burger special offers a classic cheeseburger with fries and a drink. We also love their pulled pork mac and cheese, since the pasta is always cooked just right with a creamy texture. Personable, attentive servers keep this place humming, chatting with regulars from behind the counter.
There are only two standout appetizers—fried pickles and wings—and both are worth getting even if you’re full (which you probably will be).
