Melbourne Kitchen Set to Debut Fresh American Cuisine in Melbourne

MELBOURNE, FL – A brand-new full-service restaurant, Melbourne Kitchen, is preparing to open at 55 E Nasa Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901, after more than two years and half years of remodeling, and the official launch date is still being finalized. Co-owner Tara Weaver and Chef Brian Wayman told Business Debut they’re bringing a fresh, modern take on American cuisine to the community.

The 3,800-square-foot restaurant features seating for 150 guests, including outdoor seating for 30, where dogs are welcome, and includes a full bar. The owners envision Melbourne Kitchen as more than just a place to eat; it’s designed as a gathering spot for neighbors, families, and friends.

“We want this restaurant to be a community restaurant,” Weaver said. “When people come back three or four times, we’ll know them by name. They’re not just customers, they’re guests.”

Chef Wayman also emphasized his personal approach. “If someone doesn’t like their food, I’ll remake it and come back to the table. We want to treat people like they’re in our home.”

A Modern American Concept

Along with extensive selections like the belly buster burger, which has two beef patties, cheese, bacon jam, a fried egg, onion rings, and truffle mayonnaise, the menu will also add omelets, sandwiches, quesadillas, wings, and bang bang shrimp.

Chef Wayman is especially excited about two signature dishes. “My shrimp and grits are going to be one of the staples,” he said. It's a blackened shrimp paired with chorizo sausage, cheesy jalapeño grits, and house-made bacon jam. He also puts his own twist on chicken and waffles by using juicy chicken thighs, soaked in buttermilk, lightly fried, and topped with Sriracha honey and maple syrup.

From Vision to Reality

Melbourne Kitchen is the first restaurant for Tara with her husband, Chris Weaver. Her husband began his career in New York restaurants 40 years ago, working his way up from dishwasher to cook before shifting into other businesses. But his dream was always to own a full-service restaurant. After moving from New Jersey to Florida, the Weavers bought a rundown building in Melbourne and spent two and a half years transforming it into what is now Melbourne Kitchen.

Chef Wayman has 27 years of culinary experience. After he completed culinary school in Orlando, he traveled throughout the United States for years, learning about local cooking customs in places like Texas, Maine, and the Bayou. “Nothing brings people together more than the love of food,” he said. “You put food down, and people will gather around the table.”

Hours and Future Plans

Melbourne Kitchen will be open daily from 6 a.m. – 4 p.m. for breakfast and lunch, and will also serve dinner later if there’s a demand for it. They’ve also planned a wind-down Wednesday where guests can hang out with wine and tapas from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Additionally, they’re mixing it up with fun stuff such as live music out on the patio, car shows, luaus, Caribbean nights, and even themed dinners.

Follow for More

Follow Melbourne Kitchen on Facebook for updates, sneak peeks, and the official opening date.