Welcome to Backwater
Backwater, located in Melbourne, FL, is a charming Southern brunch venue renowned for its quirky takes on classic dishes. Guests rave about unique offerings like alligator meat and make-your-own pancakes, highlighting the restaurant's playful dining experience. With an emphasis on local ingredients, Backwater delivers flavorful dishes, from juicy pulled pork to delectable grits. The welcoming atmosphere, adorned with tin ceilings, complements the attentive service, making it a family-friendly spot. Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional food quality, like their famous French toast and the vibrant mimosa flights, promising a deliciously unforgettable brunch adventure.
- 1904 Municipal Ln, Melbourne, FL 32901, United States Hotline: +1 321-837-3925
Welcome to Backwater, a charming Southern brunch haven nestled in the heart of Melbourne, Florida. Located at 1904 Municipal Ln, this delightful eatery is not just a place to dine; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. With each visit, you'll discover a menu brimming with flavor, creativity, and a hint of nostalgia.
Backwater offers a fusion of classic Southern cuisine and quirky culinary delights—think alligator bites and Carolina pulled pork which has left many patrons raving about its juiciness and flavor. The restaurant's ambiance is inviting and family-friendly, making it the ideal spot for a relaxed meal with loved ones or even a lively brunch with friends. As you step inside, you’re greeted by the unique decor, featuring eye-catching tin ceilings and warm lighting that exudes character and charm.
One of the highlights of dining at Backwater is the interactive make-your-own pancake experience. Picture this: tables equipped with griddles where you and your family can unleash your culinary creativity. Guests rave about the lemon poppyseed pancakes bursting with fresh blueberries, or playful funfetti pancakes topped with marshmallows. It's not just food; it's a flavorful adventure!
Those seeking a classic brunch will find biscuit and gravy, fried green tomato Benedict, and unique offerings like grits infused with cherry for a twist on a Southern staple. As many diners have shared, the portions are generous, and the flavors are undeniably impressive. The mimosa flight is particularly popular, with options like watermelon mint that refresh the palate beautifully.
While Backwater stands out for its culinary offerings, the service is equally commendable. Attentive staff go above and beyond, ensuring that each guest feels welcome and well taken care of. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch or aiming for a quick breakfast, the wait is minimal, with tables often becoming available within just ten minutes, even on busy days.
In conclusion, Backwater combines affordability, quality, and a homey atmosphere, making each visit memorable. Those who have dined here often find themselves returning, eager to explore new dishes or indulge in beloved favorites. So, bring your family, bring your friends, and prepare for a Southern brunch experience that promises to delight. Don’t forget to bring cash to avoid the card surcharge and enjoy every moment of your culinary adventure at Backwater!

A very affordable and yummy Southern brunch place featuring quirky finds including alligator meat. Bring cash as there is a card surcharge. Easy to find multiple entrees under 15. Wait on a Friday morning was not bad (maybe 10 minutes for a table). We left happy and full.

If I could give this place 10 stars, I would. First, I want to thank Katie for helping us navigate the menu and sharing her favorite dishes! Her service from beginning to end was amazing. I wanted to try so much on the menu, but I’m only in town visiting . I ordered the carolina pulled pork and gator bites for the appetizers. The pulled pork was the best thing I have put on my palate all month. Omg. It was so juicy and flavorful. The gator bites were perfectly cooked, but something was missing. The sauce it came with was DELICIOUS so that certainly made up for it. I think a little lemon juice would’ve done this dish some good. For the entree, I had the bayou Benedict with a side of grits. Also DELICIOUS. I also had the mimosa flight (You get to select 4, and I tried everything but the strawberry one). Everything was pretty good. The grapefruit one was the most refreshing. The atmosphere was very family friendly and the other staff members we interacted with were nice as well. If I’m ever in town again, I will 100% be back to visit!

First time visiting Backwater. We waiting about 10 min to get a table and the place was busy. We got a table towards the back where we could admire the decor; super cool tin ceilings and lamps. The waitress was super nice and the food came out fairly quickly. My husband had the watermelon mint mimosa and it was amazing. The fresh squeezed orange juice was wonderful. My breakfast brought great portions and the bacon was nice and thick, well cooked and home fries were great! We tried the red velvet pancake and the icing really gave it a great taste. I would highly recommend Backwater for the great atmosphere, the food and the service. Thank you!

I cannot emphasize enough how fantastic the food is. The French toast is the best I've ever had, and the breakfast sandwich was delicious. For breakfast, the home fries are a must-try. Backwater also offers seating where you can make your pancakes, which is a unique touch for a restaurant. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was enjoyable.

Sat at the breakfast bar, this restaurant blew me away. It was really great to watch them cook as I am a chef. Staff was friendly and attentive not only to guests but also to each other. They are running a well oiled machine. Food was really one of the best breakfasts I’ve had in a long time. We did the fried green tomato Benedict and grits, everything exceeded expectations. The cherry grits aren’t my cup of tea but not a knock on them just personal preference. The cold brew coffee was also a hit. Next time we are in Florida we will return!

Backwater in Melbourne, FL, absolutely knocked it out of the park! My wife and I had a blast with their make-your-own pancake experience. I went for the lemon poppyseed with fresh blueberries—bright, zesty, and bursting with flavor. My wife’s funfetti pancakes, piled with sprinkles, marshmallows, and chocolate chips, were a playful masterpiece. The thick-cut bacon was crispy perfection, and we couldn’t get enough of the gator bites, fried green tomatoes, and biscuits with gravy—each dish was a Southern delight done right. The map showing where their fresh, local ingredients come from added such a cool vibe to the meal. And of course, we had to make a Mickey mouse-shaped pancake—because what’s a Florida breakfast without one? Everything was top-notch, from the food to the fun atmosphere. Can’t wait to come back for more! Highly recommend!

Such a great little place for breakfast or lunch. I had an egg white omelet that was absolutely delicious and a side of grits. The grits had some extra special love in them, truly the best I've had here. Definitely a fun place to bring the kids to make their own pancakes on the griddle tables. The service was exceptional with several different servers checking on our drinks. Lots of gluten free options, too!

Adorable place with friendly fast service and amazing food. We got Cuban Benedict, biscuit & gravy and Boss bowl all 3 we would happily order again. Sausage and pulled pork had great flavor. Eggs were ckkked perfect and everything was seasoned well. We love the unique offerings and would love to come back and try a griddle table.