Trader Joe’s opened its first store on Florida’s Space Coast in late 2025, signaling growing interest from national chains in Brevard County. Now, readers are being asked to pick which restaurant they want to see next. Options include Potbelly Sandwich Works, Raising Cane’s, and others, with CAVA set to open in Viera this spring. The poll comes as the county’s population and retail footprint expand, drawing attention from chains that previously avoided the area.
Potbelly and Raising Cane’s are among the brands evaluating potential locations, according to recent reports. Both chains have been absent from Brevard for years, despite the county’s population surpassing 300,000 in 2024. CAVA, a Greek-inspired fast-casual chain, is scheduled to open its first Space Coast location in Viera by April 2026. The arrival of Trader Joe’s last year was a turning point, with the grocery store reporting over $2 million in monthly sales at its West Melbourne location.
The poll lists four chains with strong local followings. Mezeh Mediterranean Grill offers customizable bowls and halal proteins, while In-N-Out Burger remains a West Coast icon known for its simple menu of burgers, fries, and shakes. RASA, an Indian-focused chain, emphasizes flavorful bowls and burritos, and Sweetgreen specializes in salads made with seasonal produce. Each has a dedicated fan base in other markets, but none have established a presence in Brevard yet.
The vote is open through March 5, with results to be shared in the following week’s edition. The county’s dining scene has grown rapidly in recent years, with new restaurants opening at a rate of 15 per year since 2022. Residents can cast their ballots online or via a printed form at participating grocery stores. The outcome could influence future development plans for retail corridors in areas like Titusville and Cocoa Beach.