Photo courtesy Henk Prinsloo Photography

When it comes to special occasions, the Thornado Hospitality Group has not one but two top tier choices to consider – River Rocks, directly on the Indian River, and Calilou, in the heart of Downtown Melbourne. Both have celebrated menus that provide unique cuisines and signature dishes, as well as coveted locations where people love to gather. And yet, both are deliciously different.

Outside on The Dock at River Rocks,  the direct riverfront address provides events with a wedding gazebo.

Outside on The Dock at River Rocks,
the direct riverfront address provides events with a wedding gazebo.

Events with a Dockside Dash
River Rocks specializes in creative American cuisine focused on fresh seafood and quality ingredients. It is a local favorite for riverfront weddings and events of all sizes. Whether it is a rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, baby shower, bridal shower, corporate event, graduation or birthday celebration, the experienced staff at River Rocks makes sure each detail is right from beginning to end.

Outside on The Dock at River Rocks, the direct riverfront address provides events with a wedding gazebo, 250 feet of chair-lined boardwalk and 5,000 square feet of covered deck area – complete with a large, full-liquor bar and spectacular views of the Indian River.

Inside of River Rocks is an upscale, earthy-chic atmosphere with expansive views of the river from every table. In the River Rocks Lounge is an artfully crafted bar with local draught and creative signature cocktails.

The professionals at River Rocks understand and appreciate the details that go into planning a special event. An event coordinator on staff walks clients through every aspect of planning a special event. River Rocks offers several special event menus and event dining areas including a private banquet room, semi-private dining room or the covered deck.

Events with Downtown Savoir Faire

Calilou, located next to Island Pasta Company, provides a warm and intimate space in the center of downtown Melbourne.

Calilou, located next to Island Pasta Company, provides a warm and intimate space in the center of downtown Melbourne. | Photo courtesy Henk Prinsloo Photography

Calilou, located next to Island Pasta Company, provides a warm and intimate space directly in the center of downtown Melbourne.

Accommodating groups from 20 to 100 people, Calilou serves as a metro sweet spot for special occasions, business meetings or private dining events. This includes informal personal gatherings such as weekend brunches, bachelor and bachelorette parties, bridal and baby showers and wedding party dinners.

Choose from a variety of set menus or work with the Calilou staff to customize one. Whether it is a simple cocktail party, a buffet, or a multi-course plated dinner, the staff at Calilou can accommodate your needs.

In addition to the creative cuisine, Calilou provides amenities such as professional event planners on staff, creative menu, full wine list, state-of-the-art A/V equipment and Wi-Fi technology.

Thornado Hospitality Group can help to flawlessly pull off any private dining event. Both venues have a great setting, distinctive food and professional service.

For more information regarding a special event at River Rocks or The Dock at River Rocks, please contact Josh Kerwood at (321) 757-7200 or JoshK@RiverRocksRestaurant.com. Downtown Melbourne events at Calilou may be booked by contacting Gabrielle Rush at (321) 723-1584 or info@IslandPasta.com


This article appears in the January 2015 issue of SpaceCoast Living.
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