On the main Drag of Vero is Ocean Ave, here youll find good breakfast lunch and dinner dining. Behind the historic Driftwood Resort, you have Waldos Restaurant. The Driftwood is a beautifully rustic resort. Some say its even haunted (an awesome reason to book 1 or multiple rooms). As soon as you you walk, its like going into an old port after you've been at sea for weeks. You are seated either outside or in (You're choice), the outside has a pool,beach access, 2 bars, lounge chairs etc. We heard a great local country/western band last night. As youll see the pics and video I post of all they offer. The service staff are wonderful, very attentive and have knowledge of the over 100 year old history. They have anything for everyone. Try their Cordon Bleu sandwich, its incredible. Please look at my pics and videos and have many a stay. Tell them large Marge sent ya. Trust me, youll love it and want to come back especially for your souvenir cups.
Overview
Waldo's Restaurant, located at 3150 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963, is a local favorite that has earned a reputation for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Waldo's offers an experience that perfectly captures the charm of Vero Beach. The restaurant is nestled right by the ocean, offering diners a chance to enjoy fresh seafood with a stunning view of the beach.
As you walk into Waldo's, you’re immediately greeted by the inviting smell of grilled fish and spices. The interior is cozy, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light, creating a warm and welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re on vacation, even if you’re just grabbing a quick lunch after a morning walk on the beach. The open-air seating area is perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the coastal breeze while indulging in a refreshing cocktail or a hearty meal.
Waldo's menu is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and freshness. They specialize in seafood, offering everything from lobster and shrimp to mahi-mahi and tuna. But even if seafood isn’t your thing, there are plenty of options for non-seafood lovers, such as juicy burgers, fresh salads, and flavorful sandwiches. For those who enjoy a good cocktail, Waldo's has a full bar, with signature drinks like the "Waldo’s Rum Punch" that are perfect for sipping while watching the waves roll in.
What really sets Waldo's apart from other restaurants in the area is the consistency of the food and service. I’ve been to Waldo's multiple times, and each experience has been just as delightful as the last. The staff is friendly, always willing to offer recommendations, and the service is quick, even during peak hours. It’s clear that they pride themselves on providing a top-notch dining experience, whether you’re there for a casual meal or a special occasion.
One of the standout dishes at Waldo's is their blackened mahi-mahi, which is a favorite among regulars. The fish is perfectly seasoned, cooked to perfection, and served with a side of crispy fries and a tangy dipping sauce that complements the dish beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something a little more decadent, their seafood pasta is a must-try. Packed with shrimp, scallops, and a rich cream sauce, it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to savor every bite.
The ambiance at Waldo’s also plays a significant role in its appeal. It’s casual yet lively, making it perfect for families, groups of friends, or even a romantic dinner with a loved one. The outdoor seating area, with its beachy vibes and sunset views, adds to the charm, giving it a vacation-like atmosphere without having to leave the area.
For those planning a visit to Waldo's, it’s worth noting that the restaurant is located in a prime spot near other local attractions. After a meal, you can take a stroll along Ocean Drive, explore the nearby beaches, or check out some of the local shops. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or a beach day.
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy fresh seafood and drinks with a view, Waldo's Restaurant is definitely worth a visit. The combination of delicious food, excellent service, and a prime location makes it one of the best spots in Vero Beach. So, whether you’re a seafood lover or just in the mood for a relaxed meal with a view, Waldo’s is a spot you’ll want to check out next time you’re in the area.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great wine list ✓ Live music ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Late-night food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Historic ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ Tourists ✓ University studentsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
This is one of our favorite restaurants in Vero Beach; very laid-back and always a fun experience. The waiters/servers are all very professional, easy to talk to and attentive. The food is excellent; a great selection. Their key lime pie as a desert was very good. If you have a chance, please eat at this restaurant; you will not be disappointed.
Lovely place, beautiful on the water. We had a great waitress and food was amazing. I had chicken salad which tasted awesome. The bar chips on top i could do without. My husband had Mahi tacos and onion rings that tasted great. The bar drinks were good. We will be back.
My wife and I went here for a drink and a look around in the afternoon of 17 August, 2025 (a Sunday) while exploring downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive. I'd read about this place and it looked like it was a neat looking old dive bar. It sort of is a dive bar (appearance wise), but it's very nice and clean inside with a friendly staff and mostly a local crowd. The afternoon we were there, a local band of senior citizen musicians was playing by the pool out behind the bar, and they were rocking tunes from the 60s through the 80s, so we were in the perfect age group for their play list. The inside bar is rustic looking, but it was a hot day and we weren't wearing swimsuits, so we just stayed inside at barstools, had a few drinks and just looked out the open window behind the bar and people watched. It seemed like most of the people in the pool were locals in the 50s to 70s, or people from the local area who came over to spend the weekend at the Driftwood Resort on the beach, which this bar is located inside of. I really liked this place, and would love to come back here during the cooler months. The location is dead smack in the middle of the heart of downtown Vero Beach and walking distance to several free parking areas.
Stopped here for lunch after a few recommendations from friends. Loved it all! Sat outside with a perfect view of the ocean. We tried their own lager & it was very tasty. Ordered a taco bowl and mahi fingers. Both fresh & delicious. Our friends were right and already making plans to return despite the 2hr drive from home.
My table was more impressed with their food than I was with my shrimp tacos which was small in size and bland. The waitress was wonderful and attentive. The view of the ocean was the draw of course. Waldo's is difficult to find as the sign on the street is soooo tiny. The driver never saw it until we walked up on it after parking. Parking is also an issue!!!
I had such a great time at this restaurant! The food was absolutely delicious, but what really made the night special was our server, Cliff. He was honestly the best server I’ve ever had. He interacted with us the whole time, kept great conversations going, and told the coolest stories and fun facts about the restaurant. His personality is amazing, and he constantly checked on our table to make sure we had everything we needed. If you come here, definitely ask for Cliff!