5 Restaurants Every First-Time Visitor Should Try in Indian River County
5 Restaurants Every First-Time Visitor Should Try in Indian River County – Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach getaway, a romantic weekend, or simply passing through, one thing is certain—no visit to Indian River County is complete without experiencing its exceptional dining scene. Here, you’ll discover everything from historic oceanfront landmarks and scenic waterfront restaurants to locally owned favorites that have earned loyal followings for their outstanding cuisine and genuine hospitality.
If you’re wondering where to begin, these five must-try restaurants offer an unforgettable introduction to the flavors, charm, and character that make Indian River County a destination worth savoring. Each delivers a unique experience, ensuring your first visit is as memorable as the destination itself. And if your itinerary allows for a few extra meals, don’t miss the additional local favorites highlighted at the end of this article.
American Icon Brewery – Vero Beach, FL
Housed inside the historic Vero Beach Diesel Power Plant, American Icon Brewery offers one of the most unique dining experiences in Indian River County. Originally built in 1926 and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the beautifully restored building blends local history with a modern craft brewery and restaurant. Guests can enjoy brewery tours, handcrafted beers brewed on-site, and a menu of elevated pub favorites while dining alongside the original diesel generator that once powered the city. It’s a place where history, handcrafted beer, and great food come together to create an experience that’s uniquely Vero Beach.
American Icon Brewery
Address: 1133 19th Pl, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 934-4266
https://www.americaniconbrewery.com/
Pet Policy: Inside dining room, service animals only, on the outdoor patio, well-behaved pets are allowed
Featured on Holy Grail Eats: https://youtu.be/OsRqdOh4MUk
Kilted Mermaid – Vero Beach, FL
Located in the heart of Downtown Vero Beach, Kilted Mermaid has become one of Indian River County’s most distinctive dining destinations. Known for its eclectic atmosphere, extensive wine selection, and creative menu, this locally owned favorite serves everything from flavorful small plates and gourmet sandwiches to its signature Curry Pot Pie, featured on Holy Grail Eats. It’s also the only restaurant in Vero Beach where you can enjoy both savory cheese fondue and decadent chocolate fondue, making it a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience. Whether you’re relaxing with friends over a glass of wine or sharing a fondue pot on the outdoor patio, Kilted Mermaid’s unique personality and welcoming atmosphere have made it a favorite of both locals and visitors alike.
Kilted Mermaid
Address: 1937 Old Dixie Hwy, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 569-5533
https://kiltedmermaid.com/
Pet Policy: Inside dining room, service animals only, on the outdoor patio, well-behaved pets are allowed
Featured on Holy Grail Eats: https://youtu.be/6AWGsDAR8mw
Ocean Grill – Vero Beach, FL
Perched atop the dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Ocean Grill has been welcoming guests since 1941 and remains one of Indian River County’s most iconic dining destinations. Its historic charm, breathtaking ocean views, and timeless atmosphere have made it a favorite for generations. While the menu offers an impressive selection of fresh seafood, steaks, and classic American fare, the restaurant’s signature Crab Cake—featured on Holy Grail Eats—is a standout dish that perfectly showcases why Ocean Grill has earned its legendary reputation. Few restaurants capture the elegance and coastal charm of Florida’s Atlantic shoreline quite like Ocean Grill.
Ocean Grill
Address: 1050 Beachland Blvd, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 231-5409
https://www.ocean-grill.com/
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed
Featured on Holy Grail Eats: https://youtu.be/JjRcSjtT0M8
Riverside Cafe – Vero Beach, FL
Located along the shores of the Indian River Lagoon, Riverside Cafe has been a Vero Beach favorite for decades, offering waterfront dining in a relaxed, Old Florida setting. Whether you arrive by car or boat, you’ll enjoy beautiful river views, live entertainment, and a menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, burgers, and one of the area’s most talked-about appetizers—the Ahi Tuna Nachos. It’s the kind of waterfront restaurant where lingering over a meal comes naturally, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Indian River County dining experience.
Riverside Cafe
Address: 3341 Bridge Plaza Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 234-5550
https://www.riversidecafe.com/
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed
Featured on Holy Grail Eats: https://youtu.be/RI4h0rOai4k
The Italian Cousin – Sesbastian, FL
Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Chef Gus and Michele, The Italian Cousin brings the warmth and tradition of an authentic Italian kitchen to the heart of Indian River County. From homemade sauces and classic pasta dishes to fresh seafood and hearty entrées, every meal is prepared with care using time-honored family recipes. Featured on Holy Grail Eats for its delicious Chicken Franchese, this welcoming neighborhood restaurant has earned a loyal following for its generous portions, genuine hospitality, and comforting flavors that make every guest feel like family.
The Italian Cousin
Address: 480 US-1, Sebastian, FL 32958
Phone: (772) 589-1412
https://theitaliancousinsebastian.com/
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed
Featured on Holy Grail Eats: https://youtu.be/DCEtiLV17ts
Foodie Insider: More Local Favorites Worth Exploring
Choosing just five restaurants for this list wasn’t easy. Indian River County is home to an incredible collection of locally owned restaurants, each offering its own unique flavors, atmosphere, and dining experience.
Savor Club members receive access to five additional local favorites that are well worth adding to a first-time visitor’s dining itinerary. Memberships start at just $6.99 per month and include access to this exclusive Foodie Insider content.
This content is for Savor Club Members Only! To get access, please Login or Become a Member.
Which restaurant would make your list of 5 Restaurants Every First-Time Visitor Should Try in Indian River County? Let us know in the comments below! We do our best to highlight a wide variety of locally owned restaurants and cafés in each article, often giving priority to places that haven’t been featured before. That means a few long-standing favorites may not appear every time, but rest assured — they’re still very much appreciated and will have their chance to shine in future features.
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