Finding a wine bar that hits just right can feel like dating all over again. First visits require consulting every foodie friend you have, second trips demand you pretend you know your Malbec from your Merlot, and by the third, you’re just hoping they don’t suggest the same overpriced Cabernet. But what about that 20th visit? The one where the bartender knows your name and your glass is never empty? We’ve done the legwork so you can skip straight to the good part.
Trattoria Bella
$$ | (321) 768-0120 | WEBSITE
Is this the year that the casual Italian dinner makes a comeback? Here’s hoping, especially since Trattoria Bella is serving up homemade classics in Melbourne. This charming trattoria has been delighting locals for years, and now offers both cozy indoor seating and a lovely outdoor patio within their dog-friendly atmosphere. The retro-tinged space has tables for family dinners and a cute front patio, but our pick for date night is a meal at one of their intimate two-tops.
Grab a glass of wine, Grandma’s spaghetti and meatballs, the $24 baked rigatoni with beef and pork ragout sauce, then head out for a stroll afterward. The excellent service from friendly staff like Nelson and Cayla makes everything taste even better.
Venezia Wine Veranda
$$ | (321) 301-4115 | WEBSITE
Enjoying fine wine and sharing small plates are two classic date night traditions. At Venezia Wine Veranda in Melbourne, you’ll experience both in perfect harmony. They offer wine by the glass, but we prefer to explore everything with the self-pour system. At around $4 per taste, it’s an accessible way to sample their excellent selection before committing to a full glass ranging from $8 to $20+.
And don’t miss the bacon-wrapped dates with blue cheese—these small plates more than justify their price with exceptional quality. Make friends with the staff, who can guide you through the wide range of wines and create that classy, welcoming atmosphere that makes this rooftop patio so special.
The Landing Rooftop
$$ | (321) 327-6007 | WEBSITE
After a long week in a fluorescent-lit office, you’re ready for something elevated. Head to The Landing Rooftop. At this lively and welcoming spot in Melbourne, you’ll feel the ocean breeze and see happy groups sharing plates at the open-air tables. A panoramic view of the city lights illuminates the evening sky.
It’s vibrant, scenic, and a perfect place to settle into a high-top and enjoy fresh Floridian dishes with creative flair, like island conch fritters with zesty dipping sauce and guava-glazed ribs that fall right off the bone. Finish with the perfect plate to go splitsies on: crispy yucca fries, charred octopus, and a bottomless mimosa during brunch.
The Wine Cellar at Amici’s
$ | (321) 255-5377 | WEBSITE
If you can’t swing a trip to Tuscany this weekend, head to The Wine Cellar at Amici’s. This cozy, out-of-the-way spot in Melbourne feels like a hidden gem tucked away from the main drag. There’s a rustic wooden bar with wine bottles stacked to the ceiling, soft lighting that casts a warm glow over the intimate tables, and little corners where you and your date can settle in for the evening. The menu is built for savoring.
There are classics done right, and the friendly server will happily guide you through them, things like tender Chicken Picatta with a bright lemon caper sauce, hearty Eggplant Parmigiana with bubbling cheese, and wines that pair perfectly with each dish. It adds up to about $120 before tax and tip, so with the outstanding service and comfortable atmosphere, it’s a wonderful value for a special night out.
El Chico Mexican Restaurant
$ | (321) 722-4622 | WEBSITE
Authentic warmth is everything, as long as it’s done right. And El Chico Mexican Restaurant, a vibrant Mexican spot in Melbourne, knows exactly how to make traditional hospitality feel fresh. There are friendly, enthusiastic servers, tableside guacamole with fabulous flavor, and long-term gems like Carla and Marcia who contribute to the wonderful experience.
Head to El Chico when you and some friends want to relax in eclectic dining areas, eat generous Mexican food (get the El Caballero), and feel like you’ve booked a night in a lively cantina where the margaritas flow and the music never overpowers.
Cafe Coconut Cove
$$ | (321) 727-3133 | WEBSITE
You’re currently dating someone who appreciates the classics. They don’t chase trends and have simple pleasures like good conversation and watching sunsets. Lean into that energy and take them to Cafe Coconut Cove. With its cozy atmosphere, semi-view of the water, and rustic wooden tables, this Melbourne German restaurant looks like somebody built a family-friendly gem with their hands and then started pouring heffe, helles, and dunkels.
The sunset views are beautiful and relaxing, but not distractingly so. This place works for casual drinks, but if you do decide to stay for a full meal, you’ll be rewarded with delicious schnitzel—especially the peppercorn and seafood varieties—and sausages that’ll make you wonder where authentic German food has been all this time.
Longboards Oceanfront Grille
$$ | (321) 775-0012 | WEBSITE
It’s true what they say: oceanfront dining is always better with a breeze. At this lively restaurant in Melbourne, each window table offers a stunning view of the water where you’ll marvel at the sunset painting the sky. Choose between the $25 or $35 dinner specials that feature several delicious dishes, with each bite tasting fresher than the last. Paired with a glass of wine, dinner here is a fun, scenic dining experience for everyone.
Just don’t get caught gazing at the waves too long—the live music starts playing sooner than you’d think.
Bacco Wine Cafe
$$ | (321) 259-3456 | WEBSITE
Nancy Meyers couldn’t conjure up a more cinematic date spot than Bacco Wine Cafe. This authentic Italian restaurant in Melbourne feels ripped from a sun-drenched Tuscan postcard (back when people still sent postcards.) There’s a romantic dining room with warm lighting and rustic wooden tables that creak with history. You and your date will sip expertly recommended wines while sharing bruschetta and Raffi’s spinach ravioli with pistachio cream.
They accept reservations, but even during prime time, you’ll find the service attentive without feeling rushed. If you’re celebrating something special, the chef’s carbonara or Bolognese will make the evening unforgettable.
