Amazing food. What I ate and what I saw go past was all looking and smelling delicious. Our service was fantastic. Everyone was attentive and helpful. The atmosphere was unique and many were enjoying the grill top tables making their own pancakes. Loved the ambiance. read more

Love the vibe of this place! Get a pancake brittle table! We did not and wished we had waited. It's just such a cute and fun idea. I got the southern breakfast with cheesy grits. They definitely give you a good amount! I will say I was a little disappointed in the grits but that could be due to personal preference. These grits were of the chunkier variety and I'm more used to a more silky, no lumps type of grits. I did not find the chunkier texture pleasant. read more

Backwater - Cheesy grits - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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I was able to enjoy some vegan pancakes and vegan sausage patties. It is pretty hard to find breakfast around town with vegan options. The pancake batter made some tasty pancakes. I didn't need to use maple or syrup. I went on on Sunday at 1045am and was seated by 11 am. It was quicker than normal. It was only a party of two so idk if that had anything to do with it. They're regular menu looks amazing too I would definitely recommend this place. read more

Backwater - Vegan pancakes on the griddle - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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All their menu items are legit and special. As much as their pancakes can scratch that itch, it's their entire menu that makes it great. The staff are also the best and the best seat is at the counter behind the egg prep station. read more

We were in Melbourne for a comedy show and decided to get up early the next day and find a good place to get breakfast. We decided on Backwater based on the reviews and numbers of reviews and it definitely lived up to the hype. It was busy when we walked in so we decided to sit at the bar (the tables have griddles built into the middle so you can make your own pancakes) since there wasn't a wait for those seats. My girlfriend ordered the breakfast platter and I ordered 2 of their seasonal pancakes and a side of biscuits and gravy (we saw someone else's order coming out with it and it looked so good). 10/10 for sure. The pumpkin pancakes were amazing. The bacon was thick and perfectly cooked. And the biscuits and gravy were to die for. The gravy is probably some of the best sausage gravy I've ever had. They even had one of my favorite beers (Crooked Can Florida Sunshine) on tap but it was 8:30 in the morning so I somehow managed to resist. We couldn't finish it all but I'm glad we ordered what we did because it was fantastic. If I make it back, I will definitely sit at a table and try the griddle experience. Service was also top notch! read more

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O M G!!!! I'm a little speechless cause this place was definitely worth the wait! If you're coming here try to find street parking but there are several public parking lots in the area. When we first arrived we put our name on the list. You choose if you want a regular table or griddle table. We chose to dine at one of the tables that has a griddle to make your own pancakes. I think that I was more excited to cook my own pancakes than my son but he definitely enjoyed the finished product. You can choose from different batters - buttermilk, seasonal which it's currently pumpkin, whole wheat or vegan/gluten free. There is also a tri color batter pack that's great for kids to make their own designs. You also choose the toppings. We chose chocolate chips, blueberries and strawberries. You can add a side of eggs, bacon or sausage if you're wanting a little more which my son chose to do. I knew that I wanted more than just pancakes and decided to order the CH Clark's Pulled Pork Benedict with a side of stone ground grits. Let's start with the grits. They are stone ground which means they are coarse and crunchy. My only complaint was that they should have been cooked in salted water to give a little better flavor in my opinion. I had to use a lot of salt and butter to get them to where I like them. The Benedict itself was delish!!!! The pulled pork was a Carolina style BBQ which gave a nice twang of vinegar. The poached eggs were cooked to perfection and the hollandaise sauce was a good flavor. I love that they serve this on a homemade biscuit rather than an English muffin as it made it easier to cut into. Warning...you will leave stuffed! I brought home the other half of my order because I was stuffed. Made a great snack! They offer a pretty full bar so definitely check out on of the IPAs, mimosas or cocktails. I had a cranberry rosemary mimosa which was good. Just wished I could taste more of the Rosemary. They also offer sodas and fresh squeezed juices. My sons lemonade was good and it came with refills. This place has definitely been put on rotation as I would love to try some of their lunch menu items next time. read more

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Great restaurant!! Service was also great!! Had a delicious fried green Blt w/ veggie bacon.... Highly recommend it!!!...& I'm not a coleslaw lover; their coleslaw was not your average mayonnaise based coleslaw.. it was fantastic!! read more

Great location and food is amazing. Veggie omelette meal with side of buttermilk pancakes...Best.Pancakes.Ever! We had a griddle table and had a blast making our own pancakes. My friends enjoyed their meals as well. Service was top notch and our server navigated our requests with ease. Laid back, family friendly atmosphere with something on the menu for everyone. read more

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I wish I could review the food but I didn't even make it that far. Came in on Veterans Day weekend with my veteran partner, myself (a veteran) and service dog and felt immediately like I was being questioned during a police investigation about my service animal. Even after being sat, we were next to a wonderful family who's kids were asking about the service dog; to which I have no problem educating the kids. They were loving it. But then a employee walks by and tells the kids to leave my dog alone because it's "apparently a service dog". After that comment, my partner and I felt very unwelcome and decided to leave. Nowhere in Florida have I ever had a problem or felt unwelcome for having my service animal besides this place. read more

My favorite place to take the kiddos. Make your own pancakes are hit with my children. The food is delicious. It's always a great place.

Real Cajun food! Shrimp and grits are awesome! Wait, staff is very friendly and helpful.

We love Backwater for brunch! Such a trendy and enjoyable option. The food is always so delicious and fresh tasting, the service is friendly, the ambiance is lively yet you can still enjoy a conversation... I must also mention the experience of having a griddle at your table is simply the most memorable part - especially if you have kids in your party like we always do (they do have tables without them too if you're not interested in this)! It's a popular option in Melbourne so sometimes there's a little wait but it's worth it and won't disappoint!! read more

Backwater - Fried Green Tomato Eggs Benedict, sweet berry grits and a made by us rainbow griddle cake! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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I feel like the restaurant doesn't meet the hype. We (2 of us) came to backwater today to enjoy something local, rather than a big chain. We arrived around noon on a Monday and waited about 30 minutes. No big deal, really. We were just hoping the meal would be worth it. It wasn't. It wasn't BAD by any means... it's just not 4.5 stars, in my opinion. I got the pulled pork benedict, which looked awesome. Nice presentation. I just wasn't a big fan of the pulled pork... too strong of a vinegar taste for my liking. I did enjoy the potatoes, though. Just needed a little salt. My accompanying Bloody Mary was mediocre at best... would not get again. My husband got the caprese omelette and said it didn't really taste like anything. So that was a bit disappointing too. Aside from the food, service was pretty good and I loved the ambience of the place. So overall I am giving it 3 stars, even though 3.5 is probably more accurate. It was good enough, but I wouldn't bother coming back when I visit town. read more

Backwater - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

I would like to start off saying that this is the first semi negative review I have ever written, and it's mostly due to customer service. The food is normal breakfast (we were there @ 8:50-9 am to wait for an opening), along with, fantastic mimosas (why we were recommended the place to begin with). We had a party of 10, ranging from toddlers to adults (one was late coming from work), thus needing a second table. I get that they would not seat us until we were all there, but I feel like a table of 9 would have take up the same amount of space (it did by the way, the most they could fit at the table was 7). Also, when we walked in I did notice multiple empty tables too (I know that doesn't mean much if there's no wait staff for that area). Once we were sat we ordered drinks and food (waitress did great). Around the 40-60 min mark from being sat (others had to leave to go to work, thus, opening up our joined tables), they asked for us to move closer together so they could use the table (which was completely understandable). My issue is that they brought us all our checks and some of us had not finished our food and drinks; they didn't even ask if we were done yet. Our plan was to order more; what's the point of having drinks (especially the mimosa flights) on the menu if you don't expect people to try them?! Some did order more, others just left it as is since the checks were brought. Before those second round of drinks were finished, I'm going to assume someone in management (never got a name), came over to tell us there was an hour and a half wait and they could use the table. At that point we were there maybe 1hr 40 min ish after seating and using only one table. I don't know, I feel that was inappropriate, especially, because we were still wanting to order more; our plan was one more round and then to head out. We will check out other venues for future outings for our group as they seem that they cannot handle groups larger than six/seven (at least I hope the only reason was our group size). read more

Bayou Benny is my all time favorite breakfast item. Sub in a biscuit for the English muffin and you have true south deliciousness.

Speed and intensity....service and flavors... The second visit to make sure this was not a one-hit-wonder and it did not disappoint. Now we opted for a griddle-less table since we were not making our own pancakes but if you have a group of kids I would recommend it. Or if you want to be a kid go for it. They are a very busy breakfast place....always a waitlist but the tables turn over pretty quick and that is because they all expedite. They all help each other out they all make sure the food is right. The French toast only needs a tad bit of butter. It is so sweet without any syrup. The southern breakfast is probably the best deal...huge and if you add a side of sausage gravy and pick a biscuit for your bread instant biscuit and gravy....at a steep discount from ordering ala carte. The make you own omelet is very large and they use fresh everything....they do end up having the items mixed into the omelet portion and not just fillings folded in....personnal choice I prefer the filling to be folded in between the egg. See my pictures of Macondo's in Doral FL if you need a visual. So it is almost a scramble....but not quite. Props for the fresh spinach. The bathrooms were clean and well-stocked. Important tell on an establishment. Is it worth the wait?.... Well yes, it is. Then why not 5 stars? The upcharges....add fruit instead of grits or home fries, a buck fifty. Add a biscuit another upcharge....be warned and be informed. I really did not mind except they don't tell you when they offer...classic up-sell....albeit a little sneaky. I will be back and soon. There are a few more items I want to try...however if you are trying to stay away from all the carbs this may not be the place...I might have to cheat for the Gator Benedict. Time will tell. read more

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Excellent breakfast joint: MUST GO! Great staff, very friendly and welcoming. We were offered a table with a hot griddle built into it to make pancakes . Saving that for another visit. The Eggs Benedict came with a shredded pork on top and was DELICIOUS! Also, loved the grits with everything on them. Looking forward to coming back and trying the supper menu. read more

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Delicious unreal Eggs Benedict with pulled pork smothered in hollandaise sauce with shrimp. Everyone else's meal was just as succulent. Fun happy staff and the kids can make pancakes on the griddle built into the table read more

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Great food, ambiance and service. Breakfast was on point and delicious. Had it served it with some extra creole sauce they have and it worked out great ! read more

Bayou Benny rocked. Service was on par. Great little hidey hole. Fun to sit at the counter and watch the show. read more

Backwater - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

Came in around brunch time, I wanted to make a pancake but i was by myself and seem like it would be better with a group for that experience. Overall this was a yummy omelette i added some extras to it like mushrooms and jalapeños. The grits were good but would probably have they another way. Service was great and they were helpful with showing me my options. Looking forward to coming back and making my own pancakes with friends and family read more

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Best french toast I have ever had. It's deep fried and amazing. The griddle table is super cool with the kids.

I know that you can dine at places that are Korean or Japanese BBQ and cook your food right at your own table, but I've never been to a place that you cook your own pancakes. My visit to Melbourne included a much-encouraged visit to Backwater, where the food was delicious and I was able to make some pancakes of my own (check out my pics to see Mickey Mouse!). You choose what kind - regular, whole wheat, vegan/gluten-free - and add toppings of your choice. I went with vegan, bananas, and blueberries, which was a great combo IMO. I of course had to try the fried green tomatoes, which came with a great chipotle-esq sauce, and a side of fruit and veggie sausage. My friend ordered the shrimp and grits, which I helped devour; the plate smelled amazing and it tasted even better. I want to add that our server, Meghan, was one of the nicest I've had in a long time. Between running back and forth between tables (Backwater was busy but is apparently always busy), she managed to make our dining experience extra special just by taking small things into consideration. For example, servers don't typically pay attention to dietary restrictions unless otherwise specified, but she noticed that I was ordering more vegan-friendly options and went out of her way to take extra precautions. Meghan, if you see this: thank you again! read more

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The food and ambience sold us! The waitress Sara took great care of us with fast and friendly service. We were surprised by the griddle tables which we thoroughly enjoyed. We also ordered two delicious meals off the main menu. We will be returning! read more

Backwater - Bourbon Revival Lunch - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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Fabulous food. Great cocktails. Good vibes. A grill top table to make your own pancakes is an appealing choice for the little ones.

The food is decent, but not incredible. Portion size is decent and I'm not a fan of making my own pancakes because i could do it at home. I also wish they accepted American Express credit cards. Their overall service and taste won't persuade me to not use a different credit card for their dining experience. read more

Huge portions with Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free modifications for nearly everything on the menu. The server told me the home fries are cooked with regular food so I didn't have to worry about getting sick.I am confident that my meal won't send me to the restroom all day. Pleasant staff. Now if only some thoughtless jerk hadn't clogged up the ladies toilets.... grrrrrrrr. read more

Quality food. Great, friendly service. Cool environment. They have griddles on the tables that you can cook your own pancakes. Plenty of seating without that if you're not interested. read more

Back to this brunch spot for some good classic breakfast! As always, the lines are there early in the morning so you may have to wait a little. I opted for bar seating again since I was not in the mood to wait for the griddle. I ended up getting the biscuits and gravy and my friend got the southern breakfast. The biscuit and gravy was was exactly that! A good sized biscuit swimming in a pool of gravy! It was super delicious and decadent, but after a while can be a bit one note and much. The southern breakfast is always a classic and they do it just right with some eggs, potatoes, bread, and sausage or bacon. Hits the spot always! Overall, I really enjoy this place and will visit again to satisfy my breakfast needs! read more

Backwater - Biscuits and Gravy - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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I love this place and visit nearly every time I'm in town. I went for a shaved ribeye sandwich this time. Ona very nice soft roll, it's topped with caramelized onions bathed in balsamic with blue cheese crumbles and a fried egg. I could only eat half. It was amazing. Possibly the best sandwich I've ever eaten. Also love their cole slaw and the service is always exceptional and engaging. I'll do my best to recreate that sandwich. A must have. Opening another location soon. Check them out. read more

Backwater - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

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New foodie to the Palm Bay Area. Wanting to try spots no less than 4 stars. The reviews were good for this place so why not. I ordered the pull pork eggs Benedict with a side of grits and fried green tomatoes. This place advertises "Southern Comfort" food, I am born and raised in the South and this ain't it. The pulled pork and biscuit was dry like ash. The pull pork was a good attempt however it was also dry. The fried green tomatoes are not at all what I grew up eating. I expected seasoned acidity with a touch of greasiness. Nope, mostly a thick coating of corn meal was all I tasted no salt no pepper. The grits was an embarrassment to my Southern roots. Those were not grits. The sweet tea was on point though. So far all the restaurants we've tried with great reviews were pretty disappointing for the price. I realize reading the comments My good is not everyone else's good, but c'mon! Oh, my Husband (The Iron Stomach) ordered the shredded ribeye, it was mediocre but he eats anything and says it's good. To end on a positive note. The service and atmosphere was great. Very clean and organized. read more

Backwater - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

Wife and I had an excellent breakfast at backwater recently. We went on a Saturday morning and there was a 30-minute wait. We were told that is typical for this restaurant. Very casual decor. Several of the tables have griddles so you can make your own pancakes. Several families were really enjoying that option. Keep in mind that means you'll come out smelling like you just had breakfast at a diner. We both really enjoyed our meals. Good size servings with quality ingredients that are well prepared. You can't ask for more. read more

Food & ambience is quite pleasant, pancakes orange creamsicle were delicious! Coffee was a bit weak but overall it was very good and we will be back again soon. read more

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Mointainview decor, friendly & attentive wait staff. No reservations, street parking or nearby free garage. Great food presentation, touch, & taste. Everyone in our party complimented their food. My gator gumbo was unique & tasty, loved the grilled cornbread & cranberry coleslaw touch with unlimited coffee. They also have griddle tables to make your own design pancakes & toppings. Tip is automatically added with big parties. With a revisit to try a different dish! read more

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Doesn't look much from outside but it's a must go to place. Wonderful service! Everyone here is so kind and helpful. The food was amazing. I love the fact that I was able to sit at the bar where I can see all the food being made and put together and let's not forget the drinks are on point. read more

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This place is a pretty great stop for Breakfast or Lunch. I ended up having a little Brunch. The atmosphere is pretty cool and it definitely has a Louisiana vibe. One of the few places where I've seen things like Gator and Okra on the menu. If you haven't tried Gator it's a lot like chicken and the way Backwater makes it probably better than a lot of the chicken you've had. Things to note: 1. Shrimp and Grits still have the tails on which is a pet peeve of mine. If I have to dig around in my Shrimp and Grits to remove them that's not super great. I know some people eat the tails, but most don't. That said, the Shrimp and Grits were really pretty terrific! 2. Do not get the pitcher of Mimosas. It's a lot cheaper to buy them individually. The pitcher was maybe 2 and a half fully filled Mimosas for $19 and individually they are a bit over $5. I will definitely revisit Backwater when I am back in Melbourne. Very fun place to eat. AND, they have griddles on the table so you can make your own pancakes! I will probably do that next time since I am a sucker for that kind of thing. read more

Cool spot for visitors out of town. Usually crowded so expect a wait & the food is pretty solid. My reason for the low rating is how my family & I was treated during a visit. We marked down a non-griddle table (they have tables you can griddle your own pancakes if you plan to order them in which case we weren't) & due the long wait we were asked if we'd consider a griddle table. We did & there was obvious miscommunication because we still had no interest in pancakes, but that was not asked. After our orders were taken & server realized what happened we were informed that we made a mistake. The manager on duty in plain sight of us was arguing with the server about how WE should never have accepted the table and that WE were being rude. I don't do well with disrespect especially considering we always do our best to side with servers & others in the food industry. This is why we haven't returned. read more

Great food and service. Their entrees are a TON of food. One entree could easily feed two people. Highly recommend the mimosa flights also.

Such a fun time making pancakes! I ordered the buttermilk pancakes set of 4 colors. For our toppings, bananas, chocolate chips and strawberries. It was so fun getting creative and making our food. Also ordered the fried chicken which was amazing! The perfect place for family, friends or even a date. read more

Backwater - Buttermilk Pancakes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Melbourne, Florida

This brunch restaurant is such a unique experience with the pancake griddle in front of you with tons of options to decorate your pancake in amazing flavors and toppings. I received excellent service from the staff. It's definitely a busy spot but I understand why! The servers are equipped at handling the busy environment and very prompt and tentative to their customers. Absolutely go here if you're in the area looking for the best brunch spot around. read more