Restaurants in COCOA BEACH, FL, US
Cocoa Beach, Florida, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich history and a unique charm that attracts visitors and residents alike. Founded in 1925 by a group of developers, Cocoa Beach has evolved from a small beachside community into a thriving city known for its beautiful beaches and recreational activities. Over the decades, the city has witnessed significant events, including the establishment of the Cocoa Beach Pier in the 1960s and the launch of the Space Shuttle from nearby Cape Canaveral, which put Cocoa Beach on the map as a destination for space enthusiasts. Today, Cocoa Beach boasts a population of around 11,000 residents, with a diverse demographic mix that includes families, retirees, and a growing number of young professionals.
Common Violations in COCOA BEACH
Most frequently cited violation codes in COCOA BEACH over the last 90 days.
03A-02-524 locations
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In flip top of reach in cooler on cook line ...
N/A24 locations
No Violations Were Observed...
23-03-420 locations
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Walk in cooler shelves are soiled Repeat Violation...
22-02-419 locations
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Table mounted can opener is soiled...
31B-04-415 locations
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. At sink in dish area...
29-28-415 locations
Intermediate - Water treatment device has not been inspected or serviced according to manufacturer's instructions. Last serviced 1/26/23...
08A-05-613 locations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw shelled eggs on shelf over cooked wings and cooked meat...
14-11-511 locations
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Gasket on flip top cooler by stove is in poor repair....
22-20-510 locations
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Ice machine has an accumulation of mold like substance...
01B-02-510 locations
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. In steam-well near windows. butter (89-108F -...
Latest Inspections
- HILTON GARDEN INN COCOA BEACH2080 N ATLANTIC AVE11/10/2025No violations
- FRUITS WAVE2 N ATLANTIC AVE #311/7/20251 violations
- PELICAN'S BAR & GRILL BOARDWALK BAR RIKI TIKI TAVERN401 MEADE AVE11/6/20251 violations
- PIZZA HUT179 E COCOA BEACH CSWY11/6/20251 high priority violations
- ATLANTIC OCEAN GRILLE401 MEADE AVE11/3/20251 violations
Worst Rated in COCOA BEACH
- COASTERS TAPHOUSE5675 N ATLANTIC AVE SUITE 1224 inspections★☆☆☆☆ (1.1/5)
- THE ALIBI COCKTAILS & BITES231 MINUTEMAN CSWY5 inspections★½☆☆☆ (1.5/5)
- REBELLION BEACHSIDE BAR AND BISTRO26 N ORLANDO AVE3 inspections★½☆☆☆ (1.7/5)
- DISCOVERY BEACH CAFE300 BARLOW AVE5 inspections★½☆☆☆ (1.7/5)
- 4TH ST FILLIN STATION382 N ORLANDO AVE6 inspections★½☆☆☆ (1.7/5)
Best Rated in COCOA BEACH
- BEST WESTERN OCEAN BEACH HOTEL AND SUITES5600 N ATLANTIC AVE3 inspections★★★★½ (4.8/5)
- SUBWAY #365362700 CLEAR LAKE RD (INSIDE WALMART)3 inspections★★★★½ (4.6/5)
- MOM & POP'S BAR AND GRILL900 N ATLANTIC AVE STE B2 inspections★★★★½ (4.5/5)
- WESTGATE COCOA BEACH RESORT3550 N ATLANTIC AVE2 inspections★★★★½ (4.5/5)
- PINEAPPLE POINTE LLC142 N ATLANTIC AVENUE1 inspection★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
Geographically, Cocoa Beach is located along the Atlantic Ocean in Brevard County. It is known for its stunning beaches, scenic views, and numerous outdoor activities, including surfing, fishing, and kayaking. The city is also home to the Cocoa Beach Surf Museum and the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop, both of which celebrate the area's rich surfing culture. As Cocoa Beach continues to grow, it maintains its small-town charm while offering a wide range of amenities that cater to both locals and tourists.
Food safety is a critical aspect of the dining experience in Cocoa Beach. The city is home to approximately 160 restaurants and food establishments that serve a variety of cuisines, from fresh seafood to international fare. Over the past year, the local health department has conducted 761 health inspections across these establishments, revealing a total of 90 violations reported in the last 90 days. The average food safety rating for restaurants in Cocoa Beach stands at 3.2 out of 5, indicating a generally satisfactory level of adherence to food safety standards. However, this average also highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance in maintaining high standards in food establishments to ensure the health and safety of consumers.
Recent inspection trends show a commitment to improving food safety practices in Cocoa Beach. While the number of violations may seem concerning, they also reflect the proactive measures being taken by the health department to monitor and enforce food safety regulations. Notable establishments such as The Heidelberg Restaurant and Heidi's Jazz Club, IHOP, and Slow & Low BBQ have shown varying inspection results, contributing to the overall food safety landscape in the city. These establishments play a significant role in shaping the local dining experience, and their safety records are closely monitored by both the health department and the community.
The local food scene in Cocoa Beach is as diverse as its residents. Visitors can find a wide range of dining options, including casual beachfront eateries, fine dining restaurants, and cozy cafés. Seafood is a highlight in Cocoa Beach, with many restaurants offering fresh catches from the Atlantic Ocean. The city's food culture emphasizes local flavors and fresh ingredients, which are often sourced from nearby farmers and fisheries. Dining trends in Cocoa Beach also reflect a growing interest in health-conscious options, with more establishments offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes to cater to diverse dietary preferences.
Popular dining areas in Cocoa Beach include the Cocoa Beach Pier, where visitors can enjoy oceanfront dining while watching surfers ride the waves. In addition, the downtown area features a variety of eateries that showcase local cuisine and craft beers. Notable restaurants such as The Heidelberg Restaurant, known for its German dishes and live music, and Slow & Low BBQ, famous for its smoked meats, are must-visit spots for anyone looking to experience the local food scene.
In the broader regional context, Cocoa Beach is situated near several other cities, including Miami Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, and Hialeah Gardens. Each of these nearby cities presents its own unique food safety landscape. For example, Fort Lauderdale has a more extensive array of dining establishments and a higher food safety inspection frequency, while Hialeah Gardens focuses on community-driven food safety initiatives. Comparing food safety trends across these regions reveals that Cocoa Beach is striving to maintain competitive safety standards while fostering a unique culinary identity.
Regional food safety initiatives, such as collaborative training programs for restaurant staff and community awareness campaigns, have also begun to take shape. These efforts aim to improve food safety compliance and educate both restaurant owners and consumers about the importance of safe food handling practices. As the local food scene continues to evolve, collaboration among local health departments, restaurants, and the community will be essential for ensuring that food safety remains a top priority.
In conclusion, the overall food safety assessment for Cocoa Beach indicates a commitment to maintaining high standards while navigating the challenges that come with a thriving dining scene. Although the average food safety rating of 3.2 out of 5 reflects areas for improvement, the city's proactive measures and focus on health inspections demonstrate a dedication to ensuring the safety of its food establishments. For diners in Cocoa Beach, it is essential to stay informed about restaurant ratings and health inspection results. Future outlooks for food safety in the city appear promising, with ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing food safety practices among local establishments. By supporting restaurants that prioritize food safety and engaging with community efforts, diners can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable dining experience in Cocoa Beach.