Fort Pierce has plenty of restaurants where, if the walls could talk, they’d probably say ‘table six, your order’s been ready since 1981.’ But there are other spots—the legendary ones we’d trade a dozen hushpuppies to hear their tales of secret recipes and local lore. These are those places. Even if some have swapped names or menus since their humble beginnings, and claims of being the best should be taken with a grain of sea salt.
7 Brew Coffee
$ | (479) 358-9274 | WEBSITE
Modern Drive-Thru Factor: Like any efficient coffee spot worth its beans, 7 Brew Coffee, in Fort Pierce, is located along a bustling thoroughfare. With a straightforward name and a reliably cheerful team (hello, shift lead Amelia), it’s little surprise that this streamlined drive-through operation is as popular with locals as it is with caffeine seekers and commuters grabbing drinks.
THE CUBAN CORNER FOOD TRUCK
$ | (772) 318-9443 | WEBSITE
This quintessential Fort Pierce food truck is home to one of—if not, the most—gloriously practical covered outdoor seating areas in the world. We also like to think of this roadside classic as the birthplace of the Great Florida Working Break (a casual bench sit, minimal chat relating to your order, food prep time in the high twenties of minutes).
Tropical Latin Food
$ | (224) 318-7528 | WEBSITE
The food truck, the makeshift outdoor tables, the cooler keeping drinks perfectly chilled. That being said, this Fort Pierce gem has undergone something of a resilient transformation so is less temporary setback, more vibrant gathering spot perfect for satisfying your craving for authentic Cuban flavors with pork sandwiches and cortaditos.
Paleteria Calderon (Calderon Ice Cream)
$ | (772) 242-1688 | WEBSITE
This Port Saint Lucie favorite started life as a simple ice cream shop, but is now a no-brainer for anyone craving authentic agua fresca. There’s a faintly nostalgic feel to the whole place, with families and friends chatting at simple tables. Settling into a little corner for a long afternoon of tasting ice cream flavors with people called Maria and Carlos feels like a very good idea indeed.
Wendy’s
$ | (772) 466-4065 | WEBSITE
A dependable spot for good food, friendly employees who go above and beyond, and a drive-thru experience that’s actually enjoyable. These are just a few of the things you’ll experience at this Fort Pierce favorite. The burgers here are fresh and tasty, with menu items like the Dave’s Double being fantastic and filling. Many feel that waiting a few extra minutes is worth it for a quality meal.
Although prices may be slightly higher than some competitors, the overall experience remains well worth it. Just remember to check your bag before leaving to ensure all your food is there, as sometimes items may be forgotten.
High on the Hog BBQ
$ | (678) 791-3820 | WEBSITE
Alleged Notable Regulars: Fort Pierce locals (definitely) and barbecue purists were fans of the pulled pork here (undoubtedly). Needless to say, the smash burger has devotees, and it was referenced in conversations about the best comfort food and unbeatable portions.
Jetty Lounge
$ | (772) 461-1750 | WEBSITE
A beach-adjacent, laid-back Fort Pierce setting that makes grabbing a frozen rum runner to go seem essential, especially if you’re walking the jetty at sunset. It’s known for its awesome drinks and good vibes, but we have it on good authority that 90% of the crowded feeling inside is due to the fast and friendly service that keeps everyone coming back.
Island Pig and Fish
$ | (772) 776-4227 | WEBSITE
Island Pig and Fish: A weathered barbecue joint with a patio that’s often packed, this spot is the kind of place where a sunburned fisherman would try to trade his catch for your cold beer, back in the day. Its location just off the beach in Fort Pierce feels improbable for such serious barbecue, but during the Florida cracker era this was prime fishing territory. Word is that the old-timers who built this town would have definitely enjoyed a plate here.
Pueblo Viejo Fort Pierce
$ | (772) 202-5752 | WEBSITE
Notable regulars: the Saturday night crowd, obviously. The margarita lovers also flock here, the fajita fans are regulars, and everyone’s favorite comfort food, the burrito with white queso, gets ordered repeatedly. The Chile Poblanos also make an appearance on many tables. The service is swift once you place your order, and the atmosphere stays lively with music playing. While the salsa may lack some punch, the shrimp fajitas and robust margaritas are praised.
Some find certain dishes like the chili pompano or burrito can be mild, but the green sauce is described as fire. It’s wheelchair accessible and perfect for a fun, casual meal where the drinks are large and the environment stays cozy.
AJ’s Pizza, Subs, and Wings
$ | (772) 466-2525 | WEBSITE
AJ’s Pizza, Subs, and Wings is a welcoming neighborhood spot that’s been serving up a variety of delicious meals for years, ideal for family dinners or anyone looking to get that close-to-home comfort food fix. Back in the day it was known mainly for its pizza and subs, but these days the recently added ribs are a must-try, featuring fall-off-the-bone meat with a tasty side of plantains.
The Randall sub remains a long-time favorite, always amazing, while the wings are praised for being super crispy and full of flavor at a reasonable price. The garlic knots, made fresh in house from scratch with delicate, soft dough, and the crispy, flaky, golden-brown tater tots round out the offerings. The restaurant provides friendly service in a spacious, kid-friendly space with easy wheelchair access and an open parking lot.
Despite some reports of slow service, many find AJ’s to be a great place to enjoy a variety of tasty options.
Peking Chinese Restaurant
$ | (772) 464-5960 | WEBSITE
The legendary Fort Pierce establishment has not only stood the test of time but also stubbornly refuses to drag itself into the 21st century. Discarding its commitment to serving hot tea with every meal and an old-style sit-down experience would be like watching your favorite classic film get a pointless digital remaster. The slightly dated appearance feels like a badge of honor, with clean, well-maintained facilities that whisper of decades of reliable service.
Friendly staff deliver consistently excellent dishes like Beef and Broccoli and Mongolian Beef with fresh, well-seasoned ingredients that have remained amazing for over 35 years. Combination dinners offer great value at around $12–$16, filling and affordable with that comforting similarity to NYC Chinese food. Takeout favorites like wanton soup, sliced roast pork, shrimp fried rice, and egg rolls complete the authentic, satisfying experience in a comfortable setting that simply works.
Antojitos Mexicanos
$ | (772) 252-4775 | WEBSITE
Alleged Notable Regulars: The mayor of Fort Pierce and a few local celebrities have been spotted grabbing takeout. More recently, a food critic from Miami chose it as the spot for a feature. Tourists from Palm Beach and even Orlando make the drive. Rumour has it, the green sauce recipe is a family secret! Also, the happy hour crowd is always lively. Which is unrelated.