Melbourne, Florida, has become a culinary hotspot, with a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. Among these, Squid Lips stands out as a beloved waterfront restaurant known not only for its stunning views but also for its diverse and flavorful menu.
Whether you are a local or just visiting, Squid Lips offers an inviting atmosphere coupled with a menu that celebrates fresh seafood, creative appetizers, and satisfying main courses. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative dishes has earned it a loyal following and a reputation for delivering a memorable dining experience.
Squid Lips is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination where food and ambiance merge beautifully. The menu is thoughtfully curated to appeal to a broad audience, with options ranging from classic seafood favorites to inventive culinary twists.
Diners can expect a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary flavors, with seasonal specials that highlight the best of Florida’s coastal bounty. The attentive service and picturesque setting overlooking the Indian River Lagoon enhance every meal, making Squid Lips a must-visit spot in Melbourne.
Whether you’re craving succulent shrimp, fresh fish, or a hearty steak, the menu at Squid Lips offers something for everyone. The combination of fresh ingredients, creative preparation, and a welcoming environment ensures that every visit is a delightful culinary adventure.
Let’s explore the diverse offerings and unique features of the Squid Lips Melbourne Florida menu in detail.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer selection at Squid Lips is designed to awaken the palate and set the tone for a fantastic meal. The menu features an array of choices that highlight fresh seafood and bold flavors, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light starter.
From crispy calamari to zesty ceviche, the appetizers are crafted to complement the restaurant’s coastal vibe.
One of the standout dishes is the Calamari Fritti, lightly breaded and fried to a golden crisp, served with a tangy marinara sauce. This dish reflects the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, high-quality seafood prepared with care.
For those who prefer something chilled, the Fresh Key West Shrimp Cocktail offers a refreshing bite, paired with a spicy cocktail sauce that balances sweetness and heat perfectly.
Vegetarian options are thoughtfully included, such as the Caprese Salad, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction. This variety ensures there’s an appetizer to satisfy every appetite and dietary preference.
Popular Starters
- Calamari Fritti – Crispy fried squid with marinara sauce
- Key West Shrimp Cocktail – Chilled shrimp with spicy cocktail sauce
- Crab Dip – Creamy crab mixture served with toasted baguette slices
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze
“The appetizers at Squid Lips are a true reflection of Florida’s vibrant seafood culture—fresh, flavorful, and perfectly executed.”
Signature Seafood Dishes
Seafood is the heart of Squid Lips’ menu, and the signature dishes showcase the freshest catches from local waters. The chefs skillfully balance traditional preparation methods with contemporary influences to create memorable meals.
Each dish emphasizes the natural flavors of the fish and shellfish, enhanced by complementary seasonings and sauces.
One of the favorites is the Blackened Mahi Mahi, a perfectly seared fish with a smoky spice rub, served alongside fresh vegetables and a citrus beurre blanc. This dish highlights the restaurant’s ability to marry bold flavors with delicate textures.
Another popular choice is the Grilled Grouper Sandwich, featuring tender grouper fillet on a toasted bun with house-made tartar sauce and crisp lettuce.
The menu also offers a Seafood Platter that combines shrimp, scallops, fish, and crab cakes for those who want to experience a variety of tastes in one meal. This dish is ideal for sharing and showcases the versatility of Squid Lips’ seafood offerings.
Seafood Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Blackened Mahi Mahi | Mahi Mahi, Cajun spices, beurre blanc | Smoky, citrusy, tender |
| Grilled Grouper Sandwich | Grouper fillet, tartar sauce, lettuce, bun | Savory, fresh, crispy |
| Seafood Platter | Shrimp, scallops, fish, crab cakes | Varied, rich, satisfying |
“Squid Lips delivers seafood that tastes as if it was just pulled from the ocean moments ago.”
Steaks and Land Entrees
While seafood shines at Squid Lips, the menu also offers a selection of hearty steaks and land-based entrees for those seeking a classic American dining experience. These dishes are thoughtfully prepared to ensure quality and flavor, matching the high standards set by the seafood offerings.
The Prime Rib is a customer favorite, slow-roasted to perfection and served with au jus and horseradish cream. It’s a testament to the kitchen’s skill at preparing traditional cuts with flair.
For a lighter option, the Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast is tender and juicy, paired with seasonal vegetables and a white wine sauce.
Vegetarians and those looking for non-meat options can enjoy the Portobello Mushroom Stack, a layered dish featuring grilled mushrooms, roasted peppers, and melted cheese, finished with a balsamic glaze.
This entrée complements the menu’s diversity and showcases the kitchen’s versatility.
Steak and Land Entree Options
- Prime Rib – Slow-roasted with au jus and horseradish
- Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast – Served with seasonal vegetables
- Portobello Mushroom Stack – Grilled mushrooms and roasted peppers
- NY Strip Steak – Grilled to order with garlic butter
“The land entrees at Squid Lips provide comfort and robust flavors, ensuring everyone can find a satisfying meal.”
Salads and Lighter Fare
For guests seeking lighter or health-conscious options, Squid Lips offers an assortment of salads and smaller plates filled with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. These dishes are perfect for lunch or a light dinner and maintain the restaurant’s high standards of quality and taste.
The House Salad features crisp mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a choice of dressings, making it an excellent accompaniment or standalone meal. The Citrus Avocado Salad combines fresh avocado slices with orange segments, toasted almonds, and mixed greens, creating a refreshing balance of creamy and tangy elements.
For those who desire a bit more protein, the Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad offers a classic Caesar base topped with perfectly grilled shrimp, crunchy croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese. This salad is both satisfying and light, ideal for warm Florida days.
Salad Selections
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Calories (Approx.) |
| House Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers | 150 |
| Citrus Avocado Salad | Avocado, oranges, almonds, mixed greens | 250 |
| Grilled Shrimp Caesar | Romaine, shrimp, croutons, Parmesan | 350 |
“A fresh and thoughtful salad can be just as satisfying as a hearty entree at Squid Lips.”
Signature Cocktails and Beverages
Complementing the food menu is an inspired list of cocktails and beverages designed to enhance the dining experience. Squid Lips offers a blend of classic drinks and creative concoctions that reflect the vibrant Florida lifestyle and its coastal influences.
The Squid Lips Sunset is an exclusive cocktail featuring rum, tropical fruit juices, and a splash of grenadine, embodying the colors and flavors of a Florida sunset. For those who prefer something crisp, the Florida Mule combines vodka, ginger beer, and lime, offering a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule.
Wine lovers will find a curated selection of local and international wines, chosen to pair well with seafood and steaks alike. The beer menu includes local craft options alongside well-known favorites, ensuring a beverage for every preference.
Cocktail and Beverage Highlights
- Squid Lips Sunset – Rum and tropical juices
- Florida Mule – Vodka, ginger beer, lime
- Classic Mojito – White rum, mint, lime, sugar
- Local Craft Beers – Rotating selection from Florida breweries
“The drink menu at Squid Lips is designed to capture the spirit of the coast, refreshing and vibrant.”
Desserts and Sweet Endings
Ending the meal on a high note, Squid Lips offers an array of desserts that combine classic favorites with unique twists. Each dessert is crafted to be the perfect balance of sweetness without overwhelming the palate.
The Key Lime Pie is a must-try, featuring a tangy filling with a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream. This dessert pays homage to Florida’s iconic flavor profile.
For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Lava Cake offers a rich, molten center that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream.
Seasonal fruit cobblers and sorbets provide lighter options, highlighting fresh, local produce whenever possible. These desserts round out the menu by offering something delightful for every sweet tooth.
Popular Desserts
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Flavor Notes |
| Key Lime Pie | Key lime juice, graham cracker crust, whipped cream | Tangy, creamy, sweet |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Chocolate, flour, sugar, butter, ice cream | Rich, warm, decadent |
| Seasonal Fruit Cobbler | Fresh fruit, biscuit topping | Sweet, fruity, comforting |
“Desserts at Squid Lips provide the perfect finale—both indulgent and refined.”
Special Dietary Options
Squid Lips recognizes the importance of accommodating diverse dietary needs and preferences. The menu includes a variety of options for guests who require gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-calorie meals.
The kitchen staff is attentive and knowledgeable, ready to assist with modifications to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Gluten-free diners can enjoy dishes such as the Grilled Salmon served with steamed vegetables or the Fresh Garden Salad with a gluten-free dressing. Vegetarian options are plentiful, with several salads, appetizers, and entrees crafted without meat or seafood.
The restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity extends to allergen awareness, with clear labeling and staff trained to answer questions. This thoughtful approach makes Squid Lips a welcoming destination for all guests.
Dietary-Friendly Choices
- Gluten-Free Grilled Salmon – Served with seasonal vegetables
- Vegetarian Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes
- Low-Calorie Citrus Avocado Salad – Light and satisfying
- Gluten-Free Shrimp Skewers – Marinated and grilled
“Squid Lips ensures no guest feels left out by offering a menu adaptable to various dietary needs.”
Conclusion
Squid Lips in Melbourne, Florida, offers a menu that expertly balances fresh, local seafood with diverse options catering to all tastes and dietary needs. The restaurant’s focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation creates a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying.
From appetizers that awaken the senses to desserts that provide a sweet finale, every dish is crafted with care and creativity.
The inviting waterfront ambiance adds to the overall charm, making Squid Lips a destination for special occasions, casual dinners, or simply enjoying the best of Florida’s coastal cuisine. Whether you are in the mood for a perfectly seared fish, a juicy steak, a refreshing salad, or a handcrafted cocktail, Squid Lips delivers with consistency and flair.
Its menu reflects a deep respect for the culinary traditions of the region while embracing innovation and variety.
Visiting Squid Lips means indulging in a thoughtfully curated menu that satisfies a wide range of preferences while enjoying the warmth and beauty of Melbourne’s waterways. It’s a place where every meal feels like a celebration of flavor, freshness, and community.
