For the last two years, my husband and I have commited to trying at least one new restaurant per week on the Space Coast. We document our favorites along the way – you can follow us at @spacecoastfoodies on Instagram and Facebook. You could say we’ve become “field experts” in local eats, and as our online platform has grown, so has our love of being restaurant guides for thousands of locals.
One of the most common inquiries we get from our followers is for ideas on great date spots. From wanting to impress on that first date, to celebrating a 25th anniversary, locals are looking for that perfect restaurant to spend an intimate meal connecting with their partner.
Fortunately, Downtown Melbourne has become something of a hot spot here on the Space Coast when it comes to great local eats. We love pointing people this way for their dates because of the sheer variety of cool, local restaurants to be found all within that quaint, historic Main Street.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of the dining options found there, so in no particular order, we’ve rounded up 6 of our can’t miss spots to take your date:
Matt’s Casbah
for the sushi and seafood lover
This spot is for anyone who appreciates great Asian fusion, seafood and/or sushi. It offers a more bouisterous patio area for outdoor dining right along Main Street, but we suggest bringing your date inside for the dimly-lit, quieter atmosphere where romantic string lights hang from the ceiling.
Dishes we recommend : Warm Nutted Goat Cheese Salad, Garnet & Gold Sushi Roll
The Mansion
a classic Florida destination
If views and atmosphere are a must-have for you, we recommend The Mansion. This crowd-pleasing spot offers rooftop (terrace) dining that boasts views of the Indian River. The menu of American fare has something for everyone and we love the vintage Floridian details found in this historic home-turned-restaurant.
Dishes we recommend: Key Lime Pie, Bavarian Pretzel Sticks appetizer
Mangetsu
an interactive experience
The coolest feature at Mangetsu is the grills found right at your table where they’ll cook your Korean BBQ. This more interactive experience is especially great as an “ice-breaker” for those on a first date. It’s also a more casual, unpretentious space, which can take some pressure off the evening as well!
Dishes we recommend: Key Lime Pie, Bavarian Pretzel Sticks appetizer
Crush XI
upscale food, casual mood
If you and your date appreciate unique and thoughtfully-crafted food and drinks, Crush XI is sure to impress. A gourmet cookery offering a variety of smaller and larger plates, it’s a spot good for sharing and trying a variety of menu items. It’s a cool and modern space is sure to impress without feeling stiff or uppity.
La Crepe de France
a European escape
Who says your romantic venture out to eat has to happen at dinner time? If you’re looking for a sweet little brunch spot, La Crepe de France has your back. Quaint porch seating, an intimate indoor space and a menu full of yummy French delights.
Dishes we recommend: all dessert crepes, Special Berries French Toast
Ember & Oak
for the serious foodie
This spot is in a class of its own for the foodie-minded couple. The menu here is intense, full of upscale food and drink options and the quality comes through in the taste. This is the perfect spot for a special occasion, because you definitely don’t eat food prepared like this every day. Built with sharing in mind, the menu offers several small “tapas style” dishes as well as larger courses. Bonus points here for their large, romantic patio space.
Dishes we recommend: Beef Fat Fries, Raclette over baby potatoes
There you have it! Our personal recommendations when planning the perfect date in Downtown Melbourne. Connect with us on Instagram and let us know how you liked these spots!
