The fall menu at Ocean 302 in Melbourne Beach features dishes from land and sea

Hurry, get yourself to Ocean 302 before it’s too late and the Melbourne Beach’s new fall menu is history.

The new menu offers plenty of choices from the land and the sea, and, as a bonus, a dose of humor in the names for the dishes.

“The names are a team effort of GM Santiago Botello, chef Panagiotis (Pete) Panagouleas and myself,” said marketing manager Taryn Rockwell.

Take Chippy Chippy Bang Bang, Ocean 302’s nod to both Dick Van Dyke’s 1968 high-flying flick and to traditional fish and chips. The $20 entrée of Atlantic whitefish battered with Bells Two Hearted Ale, also includes fresh-cut fries, seafood slaw, bang bang tartar sauce and a malt vinegar emulsion. 

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Under the direction of Panagouleas, the fall menu includes endearing dishes such as Swine and Wine ($25), a center-cut pork chop with bronzed butternut squash, agave applesauce, roasted brussels sprouts and apple blanc foam; as well as “handheld” options such as What the Chuck ($13), a prime chuck beef burger with sriracha cheddar cheese, watercress vine ripe red tomatoes and black garlic vin on a brioche roll.

Brick oven pizza, including Havana Nights ($15) with marinated pork, Heritage Farm ham, gruyere, sweet plantain bits, harissa, house-made pickles, whole grain mustard and oregano curst, are also part of the fun.  

Brunch lovers should note that the restaurant can satisfy your cravings for this particular meal every Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Among the options at that time of day are Duck Duck Goose Biscuit and Gravy ($11), thus named because of the Goose Island Beer that goes into the cheddar biscuit and the quacker that is part of the duck confit gravy. Applewood smoked bacon and crispy fried fingerling potatoes complete the entrée.

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The name may not be as catchy as other Ocean 302 dishes, but the Florida Shrimp and Grits bears mentioning, since it is available both in brunch ($16) and dinner ($25) versions. The plate showcases lightly dusted red shrimp, prosciutto cheesy grits, tri-color peppers and beurre blanc. 

A definite must-do at Ocean 302 is its signature chef’s table, available every evening with at least 24 hours’ notice. 

“You can select a four-course meal for $65 per person or opt for a six-course dinner for $85 per person,” said Rockwell.

Go whole hog and add $40 for a wine pairing to complete the dining experience. Chef Pete will explain all the dishes in detail, just for you.

The restaurant will also caters to holiday revelers with special menus planned for both Christmas and New Year’s Eves. Stay tuned for details.

Have you tried

What: Chippy Chippy Bang Bang, a nod to traditional fish and chips

How much: $20

Where: Ocean 302, 302 Ocean Ave., Melbourne Beach

Also: Reservations for a Chef’s Table must be made at least 24 hours in advance by calling the restaurant at 321-802-5728 or email events@ocean302.com. Catering is available. For more on the restaurant, visit ocean302.com.

Email toastofthecoastfloridatoday@gmail.com.