Where Do the Locals Eat in Cocoa Beach? Top Restaurants to Try
When it comes to finding the best food in town, the locals always know where to go. That’s why we asked the 40,000+ active members of our I Love Cocoa Beach Facebook group a simple question:
Where do the locals eat in Cocoa Beach?
The community delivered! From casual seafood joints to upscale dining and Mediterranean gems, we’ve compiled a list of the most-loved restaurants in Cocoa Beach and nearby areas. Whether you’re a resident or visiting, this guide will help you find where locals love to eat.
Seafood Restaurants: Local Favorites
Cocoa Beach is famous for its fresh, delicious seafood. Here are the spots locals swear by:
1. Seafood Atlantic
- Why locals love it: Fresh seafood straight off the boat, dockside dining, and unbeatable quality.
- Address: 520 Glen Cheek Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Phone: (321) 784-1963
- Website: seafoodatlantic.net
2. Q’s Crackin’ Crab & Seafood Kitchen
- Why locals love it: The crab boils, shrimp, and laid-back atmosphere keep people coming back.
- Address: 8109 Canaveral Blvd, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Phone: (321) 613-4360
- Website: qscrackincrab.com
3. The Fat Snook
- Why locals love it: Upscale, creative seafood dishes with a cozy, modern atmosphere.
- Address: 2464 S Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 784-1190
- Website: thefatsnook.com
4. Florida Fresh Grill
- Why locals love it: Elegant, upscale dining with perfectly prepared seafood and steaks.
- Address: 2039 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 613-5649
- Website: floridafreshgrill.com
5. Jazzy’s Mainely Lobster
- Why locals love it: Laid-back New England seafood dishes, including lobster rolls and chowder.
- Address: 210 N Orlando Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 613-3993
- Website: jazzysmainelylobster.com
Mediterranean Favorite: A Local Gem
For Mediterranean flavors, there’s one spot locals can’t stop talking about:
1. Pita Paradise
- Why locals love it: Known for its fresh, flavorful gyros, kabobs, falafel, and warm hospitality. A hidden treasure!
- Address: 221 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 784-4874
- Website: pitaparadisecocoabeach.com
More Local Favorites for Every Taste
Whether you’re craving BBQ, steaks, or casual waterfront dining, these spots are top recommendations from the Cocoa Beach locals:
1. Slow & Low BBQ (formerly Alma’s Italian)
- Why locals love it: Delicious BBQ plates, great outdoor seating, and a fun atmosphere.
- Address: 306 N Orlando Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 783-6199
- Website: slowandlowbarbeque.com
2. Dixie Crossroads
- Why locals love it: Famous for rock shrimp and Southern-style seafood classics.
- Address: 1475 Garden St, Titusville, FL 32796
- Phone: (321) 268-5000
- Website: dixiecrossroads.com
3. Gregory’s Steak & Seafood Grille
- Why locals love it: High-quality steaks and seafood served in an upscale, elegant setting.
- Address: 900 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 799-2557
- Website: gregorysonthebeach.com
4. Pompano Grill
- Why locals love it: A cozy, upscale restaurant serving seafood and steak with exceptional service.
- Address: 110 N Brevard Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 784-9005
- Website: pompanogrill.com
5. Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar (Port and Riverside)
- Why locals love it: Waterfront dining, fresh seafood, live music, and unbeatable views.
- Locations:
- Grills at the Port: 505 Glen Cheek Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Grills Riverside: 6075 N US-1, Melbourne, FL 32940
- Website: grillsseafood.com
6. Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar
- Why locals love it: Casual, family-friendly dining with oysters, fresh seafood, and waterfront views.
- Address: 628 Glen Cheek Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Phone: (321) 783-2033
- Website: rustysseafood.com
7. Cafe Margaux
- Why locals love it: A fine dining experience offering French and European cuisine for special occasions.
- Address: 220 Brevard Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922
- Phone: (321) 639-8343
- Website: cafemargaux.com
8. Oyster Shooters Raw Bar & Grill
- Why locals love it: Fresh oysters, seafood, and a laid-back, local atmosphere.
- Address: 734 S Patrick Dr, Satellite Beach, FL 32937
- Website: oystershootersrawbar.com
If you’re wondering where do the locals eat in Cocoa Beach, this list has you covered. From fresh seafood straight off the docks to Mediterranean favorites and hidden gems, these are the spots that locals love and trust.
Did we miss your favorite restaurant? Let us know in the comments or share it with us on our Facebook group!
Stay up to date with all the best Cocoa Beach dining, events, and local tips by visiting Cocoa Beach Local! Facebook group.