New Restaurants in Indian River County – February 2026

New Restaurants in Vero Beach and Indian River County – February 2026 continues our bi-annual look at the area’s rapidly expanding dining scene. Over the past six months, more than 11 new restaurants have opened across the county, marking one of the most active growth periods we’ve seen in the five years since this roundup began. With so many exciting additions, we divided the coverage into two parts. Last month focused on romantic, Valentine’s Day–worthy destinations, while this edition spotlights the remaining newcomers—each bringing fresh flavors, creative concepts, and new energy to our local culinary landscape.

Giving Tree Cafe – Vero Beach, FL

Giving Tree Coffee Company is one of Vero Beach’s newest locally owned coffee spots, blending community spirit with a meaningful backstory. After spending 20 years in Brazil, owner Rich Nelson returned home with a vision to create a warm and welcoming gathering place. Reconnecting with a longtime friend whose wood shop once occupied the space, Rich incorporated handcrafted wood counters throughout the café as a tribute to its history. Now open, Giving Tree serves locally roasted Tribe Coffee, refreshing smoothies, and light bites like egg bites and a fresh tomato salad, with plans to expand both the menu and evening offerings in the near future.

Giving Tree Cafe
Address: 2628 US-1, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 532-8440
Pet Policy: Inside dining room, service animals only, on the outdoor patio, well-behaved pets are allowed.

Oslo Cafe – Vero Beach, FL

The Oslo Cafe is a fresh new addition to South Vero, now open in the former Fire & Wine location off Oslo Road and 27th Avenue. Owner Margaret came to Vero Beach with a dream of creating a cozy breakfast and lunch spot where neighbors could gather over quality food and conversation. The space has been refreshed with new paint and flooring, while thoughtfully keeping the popular counter seating that overlooks the kitchen—offering guests a front-row view of the action. With a menu designed to have something for everyone and a commitment to high-quality ingredients, The Oslo Cafe is already making a strong first impression as it begins this exciting new chapter in the community as one of the new restaurants in Vero Beach.

Oslo café
Address: 2950 9th St SW # 105, Vero Beach, FL 32968
Phone: (772) 226-5735
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed.

Rowdy Rooster Bar & Restaurant – Vero Beach, FL

Rowdy Rooster is a true family-driven concept, brought to life by four family members who shared a vision of reopening The Patio and transforming it into something entirely unique for Vero Beach. Inspired by their love for the building’s character and the distinctive architecture of Waldo Sexton, they saw the perfect opportunity to introduce a country western bar and restaurant unlike anything else in the area. With live entertainment, line dancing, trivia nights, and a full calendar of themed events, Rowdy Rooster has quickly carved out its own niche in the local market. While the bar and entertainment create plenty of energy, the family is equally focused on building a strong lunch and dinner crowd—offering guests a place to gather for great food, music, and a one-of-a-kind experience.

Rowdy Rooster Bar & Restaurant
Address: 1103 21st St, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 226-5304
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed.

Smells Like Fish Food Truck – Vero Beach, FL

Smells Like Fish food truck, owned by Erik and Amanda Swanson, has been more than 15 years in the making. The couple first developed the concept years ago, but life presented challenges that delayed the launch. After moving to Vero Beach a decade ago to be closer to family, the right opportunity finally came along—and they jumped in with both feet, navigating the learning curve of the food truck world together. Through the inevitable trials and tribulations, the community has shown tremendous support, from local churches and schools to loyal guests who return again and again for their fresh, thoughtfully prepared seafood. Committed to keeping prices reasonable—especially for a seafood menu—they strive to offer strong value compared to typical fast-food options. It’s truly a family operation, with their son—currently finishing culinary school—and their daughter both working on the truck at times, making it not just a business, but a shared family dream brought to life.

Smells Like Fish Food Truck
Address: 785 8th Ct unit 6, Vero Beach, FL 32962
Phone: (772) 999-8687

Surf Subs – Vero Beach, FL

Surf Subs brings a taste of classic Northeast deli culture to Vero Beach, wrapped in a relaxed, beachy atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly toasted bread and Italian seasonings sets the tone for what’s to come. The shop is owned by Mike and Dina Iovine, along with their son-in-law Jack MacDonald and daughter Ariella, blending generations of family experience into this new venture. After years of operating successful Italian pizzerias in New Jersey, Mike and Dina originally planned to retire in Florida—but they soon realized they missed the energy of the restaurant world and the connection with loyal guests. With Jack and Ariella joining the team, Surf Subs was born, combining Italian roots, family tradition, and a welcoming neighborhood feel into one delicious new concept.

SURF SUBS
Address: 118 Clemann, Vero Beach, FL 32968
Phone: (772) 257-5992
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed.

Tossed – Vero Beach, FL

Tossed brings a fresh, fast-casual concept to Vero Beach with a focus on healthy, affordable meals built exactly the way you like them. Guests can customize their bowls and salads with a wide variety of ingredients, creating endless combinations to fit any lifestyle or dietary preference. The restaurant is owned by John and Heather, the local family behind Pepper & Salt BBQ, and their commitment to quality and community carries over into this new venture. Located in the Royal Palm Pointe area near Miracle Mile, Tossed offers a welcoming space with vibrant décor, greenery, and both indoor and outdoor seating—making it an easy and inviting choice for lunch, dinner, or a nutritious bite on the go.

Tossed
Address: 97 Royal Palm Pointe, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 226-5568
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed.