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    Backwater

    4.6 (938 reviews)
    Closed 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

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    BACKWATER ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Hipster
    Casual
    Trendy

    Recommended Reviews - Backwater

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    Reviews With Photos

    Boss hog and the Fried Gator Citrus Waffle
    Desiree R.

    A delicious, creative, and fun breakfast/supper gem in downtown Melbourne. The griddle top booth with pancakes is always a fun time with my family. The boss hog is exploding with flavor and my favorite breakfast dish. They have gluten free swaps for pancakes and for bread. The staff is super friendly and efficient. The food comes out pretty quick despite the crowd. I love all the Florida decor, It really just brings a unique vibe. They even have merch! Shirts for $15. Definitely our go to spot for brunch :)

    Waffle with orange zest and fried gator tail
    Amy P.

    So so so good!! This is the cutest place with the friendliest staff. They have several tables with griddles built in so patrons can make their own pancakes. We chose to sit at the bar and watch the cooks. I had the waffles with candied orange zest and fried gator tail. The orange zest brought a ton of bright flavor to the waffle. The gator was fresh and fried to perfection. My partner had the veggie omelette (he added bacon) with grits and toast. The grits were loaded with cheese and were some of the best I've ever had. This was one of the best breakfast's I've had in a long time.

    Lena B.

    Experience: it was a Sunday morning about 10:00 and we decided to come try the pancake grill. Service: the wait was about 30 minutes, but they text you when the table is ready, so we walked around and window shopped while we waited. Out waitress was nice but I was really impressed by the gentleman that checked us out. His name was Rich and he was so friendly and funny. He makes you feel welcome... Yall need to keep him!! Food: Ok, just as I thought, the pancakes were so fun!!!

    Dinner menu?
    Pedro S.

    I'm so glad I came to this restaurant! They're doing breakfast the old fashioned way here! The dishes are hearty! For example, if you order sausage, you get w large patties. However, I think the standout items here are the ones that are made from scratch. Get the potatoes for sure! They're masterfully made with plenty of flavors and crunch! The pancakes are huge and fluffy. Another solid choice! The moment you enter, the EEs are all smiles! What a special group of people! They make sure you get what you want and take care of you professionally and efficiently.

    Alligator Bites and Pulled Pork
    Quinncee P.

    We just beat the brunch rush and were sat immediately in the bar area. The atmosphere was cozy, friendly, and casual. Our server was hilarious and very knowledgeable -- she provided great recommendations. The food was DELICIOUS, as were the mimosas! We got a side of pulled pork as an appetizer along with the fried gator and the flavor of the pork was amazing. I had the Monte Cristo and it was very satisfying. This is a must try spot in Melbourne.

    Natalie J.

    This place had some amazing food. The portions were huge and everything tasted delicious. They didn't seat at first because they only had griddle tables and we didn't want to grill our own pancakes, but after 15 min they said we could sit at the table. The servers were on top of it refills and food came out quickly.

    Menu 1 of 2
    Nelson M.

    So we found ourselves visiting family for Christmas this week in Melbourne, Florida former stomping grounds of Jim Morrison for you Doors fans. We got up early on Christmas Eve and opted to find a cool breakfast place. After a few minutes in Yelp, we found Backwater which is nestled in Historic Downtown Melbourne. Parking should not be a problem but if you can't find some on your he street their is a public parking garage not to far away. Upon arrival we were seated pretty quickly and all the staff were very friendly. Our server Amy was awesome and recommended a few breakfast items that were awesome. We opted for the Greek breakfast and the Cuban Benedict which were both fresh and excellent. We also split their seasonal Cinammon pancake as well which was great as well. Pancakes are huge so make sure you leave some room if you plan on having one. All portions were healthy as well, no skimping at Backwater and everyone was in the Christmas spirit as well which was awesome! The atmosphere is friendly, laid back and welcoming which is great if you are from out of Town. So if you are in the area, make sure you check them out for breakfast or lunch. I am sure you will not be disappointed! So in fact he spirit of the holiday I will adjust my customary ending to say Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a prosperous and blessed Happy New Year to all of you! Enjoy and Bon Appétit mes amis!

    Orange Blossom Honey Pils
    Lori K.

    I gave 3 stars not totally for the food, but for the overall experience. The food was good. There were 4 of us. Pancakes, omelet , waffles with gator, & a pork Reuben were ordered. The omelet looked great. It was loaded with the ingredients my friend selected. She said it was amazing. I tried a piece of the Gator on the citrus waffle. It was tender & fried nicely, but it was overpowered by the orange citrus/candied orange. I would not have been able to eat it if I ordered it. It was way sweet & citrusy. The pancake looked great & I was told it was ok. But how bad can a pancake be? I had the pork Reuben. It was good. However, I assumed it would be grilled?? It was just assembled with pulled pork red sauerkraut & swiss. I asked for the Cajun remoulade on the side. I did use it as it was not fiery hot, it was pleasant. It could have used more kraut The bread could have been taken out of the toaster 2 minutes earlier., but overall it was good. The slaw was very good. Not to sweet or creamy. The Server was very friendly, she explained a few things from the menu that were unique to them. The runner was friendly as well. So the 3 stars ... it was loud & crowded. Ok, Kids out of hand. And there were a lot of kids. I don't begrudge taking your kids out to eat. In fact I always enjoyed taking mine , however they behaved. As did my granddaughter when she came out to a restaurant. The seats were super uncomfortable. This kind of thing adds to my overall experience. Maybe they don't want you to hang out?? LOL ! We were told it would be 45 min to an hour wait. They took us in like 5 minutes. That was a positive. I don't think I would go back. There are way too many restaurants in that area to hit this one again.

    Southern Breakfast
    Stephany S.

    Located in downtown Melbourne, this place is dishing up some southern goodies. As soon as you walk in, you can appreciate the decor that really does give homage to the natural beauty of Florida. You add your name on a tablet and specify which type of table you want. There are tables with griddles so you can make your own pancakes or regular tables available. There is usually a little more wait for the griddle tables. We got there pretty early so we waited about 5 minutes for our griddle table. This really makes for a family fun experience!! The menu items are great! They have a lot of southern classics with their own unique twists. For example they have chicken and citrus waffles, shrimp and grits and a grilled mac and cheese sandwich!! Did I mention they have alligator bites too? We got the DIY lemon poppy seed pancakes and half the fun is making them, but the flavor is absolutely delish!! We also tried the fried green tomatoes which are in a corn meal batter. Nice and crispy! And of course, can't leave without some loaded grits. It was delicious, loaded with cheese, bacon bits and chives! The service here is great too. Our waitress was so kind and made great recommendations. She also helped us navigate the menu because it was our first time. The staff did check up on us and made sure we had enough drinks the whole time. Very helpful and kind people. This is a must try in Melbourne!

    Entrance
    Adonis S.

    A taste of the south! You have two options for breakfast. Either a regular table where you order omelettes, etc or a table with a hot plate in the center so you can make your own pancakes. How cool is that!? I tried and made the lemon poppy seed pancakes which was delicious! Only thing it can get a little warm because the hot plate is in front of you but it's not too bad. We also tried the fried green tomatoes which was good. Eggs, thick bacon and loaded grits which was delicious. We didn't get the loaded Mac and cheese but our friends did and it was a he best I've had. Simply amazing. Service was great and the people working there are fantastic and friendly.

    Brittany M.

    Such a fun breakfast / brunch spot. I've eaten at both locations. Enjoyed supporting downtown Melbourne. There was quite the line on a Friday morning but you can put your name on the list. We didn't wait long before a bar spot opened and decided to park it there. Enjoyed a Bloody Mary and grapefruit mimosa. The waitresses are busy but still remain attentive. Food fresh/local/yummy. Such a fun looking spot with lots of cool artwork, etc

    Coffee
    Jeannie C.

    The best breakfast spot in Historic Downtown Melbourne! This place came recommended by a local artist from the area. We were so happy we came. You can choose to sit at a griddle and make your own pancakes, or sit at a table and have them make your food. We chose the latter. The buttermilk pancakes were huge and tasty. The eggs were perfectly basted as I had asked, and the bacon was nice and crispy. The Mexican omlette with potatoes were so good. Definitely recommend it!

    Randy T.

    Celiac Disease/Gluten-Free Review Wow!! What an amazingly incredible experience!! This place has the ambiance of this place just says they want you to enjoy your backwater adventure. The decor is very besetting the backwater theme. To me the food and the service, here, are tied together. I have Celiac Disease and the waitress was very helpful with what I could have, with what she recommended for me and also making sure the kitchen staff were handling things correctly and properly to protect me from gluten and cross contamination. To me ~ this was an epic experience and a wonderful place to recommend! When we are back in the Melbourne area ~ this place is definitely on "We'll be back!" list! Thank you for a great experience!

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    8 years ago

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    5 years ago

    Best Bloody Mary in town!!! Luv this place...food is awesome too!

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    8 years ago

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    4 years ago

    A definite must if you're in Melbourne. Went for a late breakfast, the fried green tomatoes and chicken and waffles did not disappoint!

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    4 years ago

    Food and service was excellent. A real Florida spot. Just what these northerners were looking for.

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    5 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Very nice place very busy but great food and service... Nice location to walk after a good breakfast.. Blessings to ALL!

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    4 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    4 years ago

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    5 years ago

    This spot is #1 for a reason. The food is unreal and so was the service. Highly, highly recommend!! Can't wait to return.

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    7 years ago

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    5 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Best breakfast in Brevard!! Pro-tip: go on weekdays to avoid the long waits!! But if you're waiting, Bloody Mary's are on-time!!

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    6 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Definitely worth the wait. Service was good. Waffle with Gator nuggets was great as were the French toast. Great for families.

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    8 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    5 years ago

    top notch food for sure.. wish they had more beverage choices especially adult which is critical for a good brunch lol.

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    9 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Consistency is key here and The food, ALWAYS good. The staff seems happy to be there and it shows. That really matters.

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    Page 11 of 24

    Ask the Community - Backwater

    Are they letting people make their own pancakes again?

    They were when I was there a few weeks ago.

    Do the servers and kitchen staff wear masks?

    They did last time I was there. Here in FL it is hit or miss.

    Do they take reservations?

    No, they do not. You have to get there early! There will be a sheet where you can "sign-in" and indicate if you want a griddle or not. If you don't want the pancakes, the seating is first come, first serve!

    Are you (small) dog friendly?

    I do not believe so

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    Hemingway's Tavern - Guacamole & Plantain Chips

    Hemingway's Tavern

    4.4(982 reviews)
    2.8 mi
    $$

    Went here for Father's Day. They opened an hour earlier. Was expecting it to be packed, since they…read moredon't do reservations/take call ahead. Our party of 7 was seated fairly quickly. The place is really nice. Lots of great decor, and a live stream of Key West on a TV screen that we sat near. Food was absolutely delicious. I got the Guava Jerk Sirloin. It was cooked beautifully. The sauce was absolutely delicious. The mashed potatoes were loaded and massive, and the broccoli tasted great. Couldn't finish it, so took it home! I also got the Cafe con Leche, and it was wonderful. Would come here again!

    This restaurant was huge with lots of locals and tourist. I'd recommend the patio over the crowded…read moreinterior. There is a vegetarian section with three menu options. Two have chickpea as a source with the third no having a plant based source of protein in the dish. We confirmed with the server that the guacamole did not contain dairy so ordered the plantain chips and guac as an app- highly recommend. Then after having many other burgers/sandwiches on our trip I opted for the chickpea pasta with veggies and leaving off the parm to make it vegan. I appreciate the volume of veggies in the dish, though the sauce was a touch too oily. The main issue was the cooks WAY over cooked the chickpea pasta so when they tossed it with the sauce and veggies 2/3 of the pasta had broken apart...

    Photos
    Hemingway's Tavern
    Hemingway's Tavern - Lobster egg Benedict

    Lobster egg Benedict

    Hemingway's Tavern - Key West Bowl

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    Key West Bowl

    Fiesta Azul Tequila House - Rice and beans that accompany paridilla.

    Fiesta Azul Tequila House

    4.3(375 reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $$

    Holy guacamole. Take back anything I've ever said about any other Mexican food place in town. THIS…read moreIS THE ONE!!! First of all it's beautiful! They did a great job creating an open, modern, attractive space inside and used a lot of plants outside and inside for a refreshing feeling. Outside I noticed tables on the rap around patio, would be nice during comfortable weather. We were greeted quickly and warmly and seated in a booth as requested. Dining and bar areas that we passed all looked clean and well kept. Our server was so friendly!! We loved him. And he was HUSTLING!! He had a large group, us, plus a few other tables. I could see him running around constantly but he never dropped his smile or attention to service. I couldn't decide between two items on the menu, and he said if I had not had one of the dishes I really should try it. I love when a server will take the time to help you think through selections that are new to me as a new diner. We started with Queso Fundido with Chorizo. We have a long history with this dish, it's a must order at every new Mexican restaurant we visit as a test of how good and authentic they are. Well they didn't disappoint!! It was hot and bubbling and 100% real cheese (not canned like we've actually received from other places). It was loaded with super flavorful chorizo. It was just perfection. He didn't rush us either, btw. We ordered the app and kept the menu while we decided on dinner. He didn't mind the pace at all and got that we didn't want to just be in and out. As I said he helped me break the tie between two dishes and I went with Michoacán Enchiladas. Phenomenal! So unique. Came with a thin sliced ribeye, seared and seasoned perfectly in a way that reminded me of the marinade from the tablitas de res we used to eat in Texas. Really nice. It came with three or four corn tortillas folded with melted cheese inside, topped with pickled vegetables and cabbage, avocado, a side of potatoes and all topped with a delicious sauce. Super dish and I would definitely order it again. Husband had the burrito loco with beef and the beef was SO Flavorful. I hat it when places just put plain ground beef in a burrito. They did not do that, thankfully. The sauce on top was fantastic. It was so large he couldn't quite finish it all. Fine by me, bc I knew I would eat the leftovers the next day! We were so stuffed we didn't get a chance to check out desserts. I can't wait to come back and see if they have authentic sopapillas or something else delightful. The menu was so impressive with so many classic Tex Mex and more authentic Mexican choices, seafoods, steaks, etc. I am so excited to have found this place!

    FANTASTIC!!!!! So good. Actually shocked just how good. I got this wrong from first look. I…read morereally thought this was going to be yet another El Torito knockoff. WRONG!!!! Let me tell you this was the best Mexican I have had since I moved from California where the best Mexican food exists besides Mexico. I had the ahi tuna ceviche. Best ceviche I have ever had and I have had ceviche through out the world. Best, hands down. The flavors coming out of this dish had me talking about them for the last 4 hours. Phenomenal. My family had various dishes, chicken quesadilla, a chicken mole, a burrito, a taco, and a veggie dish. All reported better than a typical place. They had some really interesting things on the menu, so can't wait to get back there. Service was great and there were a ton of people there. Food presented well and tasted fresh. Chips and chipotle dipping salsa were excellent too. Bathrooms and dining room were spotless and for a place that has chips, that is a difficult feat. Well done! This is a must try. Let me know what you think!

    Photos
    Fiesta Azul Tequila House
    Fiesta Azul Tequila House - Parrillada

    Parrillada

    Fiesta Azul Tequila House

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    El Chico

    El Chico

    3.6(232 reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $$

    I was driving by contemplating what I wanted to cook and I saw an early bird special sign so it…read moredrove me in. I got seated right away however I had to ask for the early birds menu. The waitress didn't seem too happy about it but then she warmed up. Also, I noticed on Wednesday they have enchilada specials and on Monday they have some half-price appetizers! As you can see the food was plenty for and everything was delicious. I couldn't finish it all! Would definitely go back. I highly recommend for the value and taste. The food also was delicious along with the chip and tasty salsa of course :-)

    Located right next to the mall. Not sure how we never knew about this gem. All three adults and…read morethree children were so happy with their food and service. Upon walking in staff was very friendly and warm. The decor is very fun and it was well decorated for Christmas. Our server was amazing. Taking care of 6 people of all ages flawlessly and with a big smile on her face. The chips and salsa were delicious. They were kind enough to make a mild salsa for our baby. He had a blast dipping away. For drinks my husband loved his beer. I was so excited to see they had Margarita flights!! They have various flights to choose from. I chose the Blue Miracle. This came with Blueberry Ginger 'Rita, Perfect Patron Margarita, Baja Blue Swirl Rita and Berry Sangria Rita. Every single one was amazing and the price was incredible. For food they offer a great menu for "Little Amigos". The kids meals come with a cookie for dessert. All of the kids loved their options. For the adults I got beef tacos and I thought the portion was amazing and the flavor was great too. My husband also got tacos. They have a hot sauce bar of which my husband LOVED. Overall the experience was stellar. Service is fast. Prices are very fair. We would come back anytime.

    Photos
    El Chico - Chips and salsa

    Chips and salsa

    El Chico - Top shelf fajitas

    Top shelf fajitas

    El Chico - Side that comes with Top Shelf Fajitas

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    Side that comes with Top Shelf Fajitas

    Woody's Bar-B-Q - Special: 1 appetizer, 2 entrees, 2 sides each $30

    Woody's Bar-B-Q

    3.7(83 reviews)
    3.2 mi
    $$

    Food is so good. This is definitely a great place to eat. Try the banana pudding. Service was good…read more Clean inside.

    Y'all. I grew up on Woody's in Broward. It is my blueprint for barbecue. We've been languishing…read moredown here ever since they closed like twenty years ago, but imagine my delight when I found out there was one in Melbourne! We've been having family drive big takeout orders down here from this location whenever they visit and it is just as good as I remember. The ribs are fall off the bone tender, and the barbecue sauce is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky. The cornbread is soft and sweet, the toast is buttery and thick, the coleslaw is chopped small and not too wet or too celery heavy. And the BEANS. I love these baked beans. They have pieces of pork in them and are perfect. I could eat an order of just beans and be happy. I've also recently discovered their sausages, which pair so well with the spicy barbecue. Their coconut cream pie and chocolate pie are delightful too. I've never eaten in here so I can't speak to the actual restaurant experience. That being said, the staff do go out of their way to pack the orders in the catering trays when they hear we're taking it long distance. We have sometimes had issues with pieces of the order getting left out, but they've always been very good about making it up to us. I have no good pictures of the food because I inhale it the second it arrives. Trust my one rib photo and twenty years of loyalty to the Woody's name and give them a try!

    Photos
    Woody's Bar-B-Q - The best ribs

    The best ribs

    Woody's Bar-B-Q - Brisket dinner

    Brisket dinner

    Woody's Bar-B-Q - Combo

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    Combo

    Backwater - breakfast_brunch - Updated September 2026

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