2024 Dining Awards Picks

We took a poll, and you let us in on some of your favorite places to hang out, pick up a treat, and enjoy a nice meal and some good company

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The Tides was your pick for Gourmet Fare. Photo by Kim Bottalico
The Tides was your pick for Gourmet Fare. Photo by Kim Bottalico

If you’re that person who enjoys going out to eat and photographing all the artfully presented dishes and drinks you order, then these next few pages will be just your cup of tea, and much more—an assortment of delightful dishes.

We took a poll, and residents of Vero Beach have let us in on some of their favorite places to hang out, have a bite, pick up a treat, or just escape the sometimes chaotic pace of life for a couple of hours and enjoy a nice meal and some good company.

We have so many options here in Vero, we may just have to try them all!

Seared Fish over Orzo Pasta, right, by Chef Christopher Lawrance at The Oar. Photo by Kim Bottalico
Seared Fish over Orzo Pasta, right, by Chef Christopher Lawrance at The Oar. Photo by Kim Bottalico

Downtown Dining

The Oar

In just over three years since opening its doors, The Oar has built a strong reputation with its charming nautical theme and locally sourced ingredients. Nestled in the unassuming Seminole Courtyard in the very nucleus of Vero’s downtown arts district, this romantic spot even features local art on its walls. Word is out, so reservations are a must. 1309 19th Place; 772-226-7155

Brined, Grilled Pork Chops by Chef Leanne Kelleher at The Tides. Photo by Kim Bottalico
Brined, Grilled Pork Chops by Chef Leanne Kelleher at The Tides. Photo by Kim Bottalico

Gourmet Fare

The Tides

For nearly 25 years, Chef Leanne Kelleher’s internationally influenced new American cuisine, made with the freshest seafood, local and organic vegetables, and high-quality meats, accompanied by an award-winning wine list, has drawn people in to celebrate anniversaries and other special occasions. The Tides has become a local institution, so be sure to make a reservation. 3103 Cardinal Drive; 772-234-3966

Enjoy the view at Ocean Grill. Photo by James Redman
Enjoy the view at Ocean Grill. Photo by James Redman

Looking for a View?

Ocean Grill

Perched over the Atlantic Ocean for more than eight decades, this Vero Beach landmark has seen its share of wild weather; but its ocean views never get old. With three generations of the Replogle family at the helm, the Ocean Grill maintains the eclectic ambience that speaks of Waldo Sexton. And don’t miss the fantastic gift shop! 1050 Beachland Blvd.; 772-231-5409

Made-to-order cakes and cake pops resemble pieces of art at Ellen’s Sweets & Treats in Sebastian. Photo by Ellen Langfitt
Made-to-order cakes and cake pops resemble pieces of art at Ellen’s Sweets & Treats in Sebastian. Photo by Ellen Langfitt

Sweets & Treats

Ellen’s Sweets & Treats

Ellen Langfitt has been applying her magic touch to all sorts of sweet treats since 2015: handmade fudge, candies, cakes, cupcakes, and cake pops. And her cake game has only been getting stronger, with decadent cheesecakes, stunning floral cakes, themed cakes of all kinds, and her fun flamingo cake. Some of them are so beautiful you almost don’t want to eat them—almost. 1124 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian; 772-918-8265

Taco Dive. Photo by Tina Fruscella
Taco Dive. Photo by Tina Fruscella

South of the Border

Taco Dive

In the fun sophistication of Taco Dive, the classic Mexican handheld staple meets—believe it or not—Irish, Cajun, and American influences, among others. This small eatery has a big following of regulars who rave about both the food and the service. The delicious tacos and rice bowls come out quickly and attractively presented. 1901 14th Ave.; 772-999-3607

Post & Vine
Post & Vine

Innovative

Post & Vine

This downtown destination’s expansive, contemporary outdoor dining area will have you feeling like part of the Vero Beach community while simultaneously enjoying the type of fare usually associated with larger cities. Post & Vine amplifies traditional dishes to create an exciting menu with something for everyone. 1919 14th Ave.; 772-907-5159

21st Amendment Distillery is your pick for Date Night. Photo by Brittany O’Leary
21st Amendment Distillery is your pick for Date Night. Photo by Brittany O’Leary

Date Night

21st Amendment Distillery

The speakeasy atmosphere, classic decor, and on-site copper stills say that this former industrial building is where the grown-ups come to unwind. Jeff Palleschi’s establishment is a newcomer on the downtown Vero Beach scene, but there’s no doubt about the former Marine’s commitment to crafting fine spirits. His passion for honoring veterans is also evident to all who enter. A small but growing food selection supplements the distillery’s ample beverage menu. 2055 13th Ave.; 772-404-7660

The Inside Story

Jeff Palleschi shares a status report after his first year in business: “21st Amendment Distillery has exceeded my expectations for year No. 1. We had a very good season, and the locals are continuing to show up strong.”

His guests love the fact that “21AD” is different. It’s the kind of place that offers a “big-city feel” right here in Vero Beach, a place where they can enjoy craft cocktails and have something to eat from the “small but mighty kitchen.” He confirms that it is indeed a popular destination for dates, as well as gatherings of friends, family members, and work colleagues.

“We like to change our menu with the changes of the seasons. We now offer two nightly food specials, and we also update our craft cocktail and tap-tail menu seasonally.”

Chef Michael Lander. Photo by Kim Bottalico
Chef Michael Lander. Photo by Kim Bottalico

Best Chef

Michael’s on 7th

Chef Michael Lander likes to get fresh—ingredients, that is! He maintains relationships with local farmers and loves to apply his culinary creativity to the farm-to-table concept. Michael’s could be considered a “hidden gem” because it’s on a side road in the Miracle Mile shopping area, but you’ll find it easily; and once you do, you just might join the ranks of regulars! 2217 7th Ave.; 772-213-8554

Nightly specials vary with different seafood, meat, and pasta offerings. Photo by Alessandro Amelio
Nightly specials vary with different seafood, meat, and pasta offerings. Photo by Alessandro Amelio

Authentic Italian

Scampi Grill

Following in the footsteps of his Italian-born father, Mimmo, Chef Alessandro Amelio sees to it that Scampi Grill stays true to its goal of serving multiregional Italian cuisine prepared from the finest ingredients. Guests enjoy the warm, elegant ambience and top-notch service. You won’t regret selecting Scampi Grill for a date or special occasion, but don’t forget to make a reservation. 815 20th St.; 772-563-9766

Casey's Place is great for the kids. Photo by Kelly Rogers
Casey’s Place is great for the kids. Photo by Kelly Rogers

Bringing the Kids?

Casey’s Place

For visitors uncertain about embarking on the Vero Beach lifestyle, a stop at Casey’s will seal the deal. Just two blocks from the beach, it’s a good old-fashioned burger joint that invites you to come as you are—reservations are not part of the Casey’s experience—and enjoy a hearty meal under the shade of the umbrellas and the majestic oak tree. 917 Azalea Lane; 772-231-4790

Pizzoodles. Photo by Kelly Rogers
Pizzoodles. Photo by Kelly Rogers

Pizza Pies

Pizzoodles

You can’t spend much time in Vero Beach without hearing about Pizzoodles. This family-owned-and-operated pizzeria serves both traditional and specialty pizzas, subs, and pasta dishes, all made from scratch. The fun, friendly atmosphere lends itself to casual dates or get-togethers with family and friends. 56 Royal Palm Pointe; 772-567-4160

The Inside Story

What makes Pizzoodles special? Well, the Weiss family members have
been working side by side for decades, so they operate as a well-oiled machine. And they’re no amateurs in the restaurant business, either. They’ve been running Pizzoodles together since 2007, and they added the popular Fishack in 2011.

Dad Mitchell, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, “always had Italian restaurants,” including the beloved Guytano’s in Vero Beach in the 1990s.

Why did the family zero in on pizza as a specialty? “Pizza was something we had fun making,” says son Ethan. An openness to good customer ideas seems to play a role in
Pizzoodles’ success, too: the Fire Station Pizza, which features pepperoni and garlic jalapeños, began as a special request by a group of firemen who frequented the restaurant; it is now a regular fixture on the menu.

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