For years, Brevard residents have longed for the larger retail chains and dining options they’ve found elsewhere, but unfortunately not here. With the Space Coast on the verge of getting its first Whole Foods location, a business that’s long been on the wish list, we thought we’d revisit the idea and see which major chain you’d like to see here next.
We have 10 options to choose from. If you’re unsure about any of the options, scroll down for our full list and descriptions.
Cheesecake Factory
Brevard residents must leave the county if they want to try this popular restaurant chain’s extensive menu of over 250 items. The first Cheesecake Factory opened in Beverly Hills 45 years ago when a man wanted to share his mother’s delicious cheesecakes with the public. Today, there are over 200 Cheesecake Factory restaurants nationwide, but the closest is in Orlando.
Trader Joe’s
This grocery store has a cult-like following and local groups have even banded together to bring Trader Joe’s to Brevard. It is described as a neighborhood grocery store known for its unique products and low prices.
DSW
DSW, short for Designer Shoe Warehouse, is exactly what it sounds like. A large shoe store that sells pretty much every shoe designer you can imagine, every style, and a wide range of sizes. Although you can always shop online in-store, the virtual shoe try-on isn’t quite the same as trying on shoes in person.
Bloomingdale’s
The iconic department store was founded in New York City over 100 years ago. Today, Bloomingdale’s is a one-stop shop for the whole family and every occasion.
IKEA
If you don’t visit IKEA for the affordable furniture and home accessories, you probably visit it for the meatballs. The Swedish store offers modern, stylish looks for any living space, but also has a fast-food restaurant serving Swedish dishes.
Zara
Zara is one of the largest international fashion companies and offers stylish, trendy looks for men, women and children. There are seven stores in Florida, the closest to Brevard is in Orlando.
White Castle
Fans of the White Castle Slider were delighted when a branch opened in nearby Orlando. White Castle is considered the world’s first “fast food hamburger chain,” but so far only has this one branch in Florida.
Dave and Buster’s
The restaurant, entertainment and gaming venue is popular with adults and children alike. There are more than 140 locations across the country, so again, you’ll have to travel to Orlando if you want to visit one.
LEGO® Store
Children usually start with LEGO bricks, but often it remains a hobby that they continue into adulthood, which is why LEGO stores are popular with all ages. Of course, you can buy LEGO sets in other stores or online, but there is something special and exciting about a LEGO store.
Raising Canes
This growing fast-food restaurant is known for its freshly made chicken fingers that are marinated for 24 hours and then cooked to order. While there are quite a few Cane’s restaurants in Florida, the ones closest to the Space Coast are in Port St. Lucie and Orlando.
