Another seafood restaurant question

We like to stay away from the tourist traps and are wanting to find a local seafood restaurant with fresh seafood and really great food! Are they all tourist traps like we have ran into at alot of other beach towns?

I actually was debating on Floridas Fresh Grill... how are they?

Cocoa Beach does have a mix of tourist-focused seafood spots and more locally loved restaurants. While it can be tricky to avoid the tourist traps, there are several places where locals regularly go for fresh seafood and quality dishes. Florida’s Fresh Grill is often mentioned favorably, as it’s known for using fresh, local ingredients and offering a variety of seafood dishes beyond the typical fried options.

Florida’s Fresh Grill highlights include:

  • Fresh fish of the day, often sourced locally
  • Creative seafood dishes that go beyond the usual fried fare
  • Comfortable, casual atmosphere with a focus on quality
  • Friendly service and recommendations from staff on seasonal specials

Other options for local seafood in Cocoa Beach include:

  • Florida’s Seafood Bar & Grill – another well-regarded spot with fresh catches and a more relaxed vibe
  • Cocoa Beach Fish House – known for simple, fresh seafood and local flavor
  • Simply Delicious – while not exclusively seafood, they offer excellent fresh options and are popular with locals

Tips for avoiding tourist traps:

  • Look for restaurants with a strong local following rather than those right on the main strip of Cocoa Beach
  • Check if the menu highlights local catches and seasonal items rather than heavily fried, generic seafood
  • Visit during lunch hours for potentially smaller crowds and fresher prep

Overall, Florida’s Fresh Grill is a solid choice for fresh, high-quality seafood in Cocoa Beach without falling into the typical tourist trap experience.


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