- Attraction: Blue Water Bay Restaurant
- Location: 319 State Rd 26, Melrose, FL 32666
- Industry: Seafood Restaurant
- Website: Facebook Page
When farm-raised alligator meets Cajun culinary expertise in the quiet town of Melrose, Florida magic happens.
Blue Water Bay has been serving fresh seafood and steaks since 1990, transforming this small lakeside community into a destination for food lovers from Jacksonville, Gainesville, and beyond.
Located just 20 miles east of Gainesville, Blue Water Bay brings fine dining to the quiet town of Melrose, housed in a building marked by a large blue marlin on the outside that lets you know you’re in the right place.
You’ll discover this isn’t your typical small-town restaurant. The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by Old Florida ambiance with original paintings on the walls, some by local artists and for sale at reasonable prices.
The restaurant is divided into two areas – the bar side and the dining side – and once inside you’re immersed in a tastefully done nautical theme.
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Keep Exploring →Signature Seafood & Gator Specialties
Smoked Gator Tenderloin Dip: This is the dish that has visitors traveling from across the state. Patrons praise the Smoked Gator Tenderloin Dip as “to die for,” a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to serving local flavors with a twist.
The dip is rich and creamy and could have been a meal by itself, served with generous portions of tortilla chips. This isn’t your average appetizer – it’s a true taste of Florida’s wild side.
Fresh Gator Tail: The entree menu includes fresh Florida Fighting Gator Tail, prepared with the expertise that comes from decades of experience.
Chef Byron and food experts agree that farm-raised alligator tastes much better than wild-harvested, which can taste “muddy” because they are what they eat. You’ll find the gator tail here tender and flavorful without any of that muddiness.
Seafood Gumbo & Cajun Specialties: The Cajun menu features Cajun Crawfish Etouffe, Veggie Gumbo, Grilled Chicken Gumbo and Cuban Mojo Pork. This is a long way from Louisiana Cajun country, but their spicy choices are great. You’ll appreciate the authentic seasonings and generous portions of seafood in each bowl.
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Discover MoreLobster Bisque: The lobster bisque is unbelievable according to regular customers. This creamy, rich soup showcases the kitchen’s attention to detail and quality ingredients that make simple dishes extraordinary.
Fresh Catch of the Day: The seafood menu includes fried shrimp, Alaskan snow crab legs, oysters, and fresh seafood and herb pasta, and the fresh catch of the day. The staff are so informative about what fish they had for the day and what fresh catch wasn’t in stock, ensuring you always know what’s freshest.
Weekend Gourmet Buffet Experience
Friday & Saturday Night Buffets: Blue Water Bay continues to serve fresh seafood/beef to customers along with Friday & Saturday night buffets.
The Gourmet Buffet on Friday and Saturday nights is so popular that reservations are advised. The buffet features specialty salads and seafood, with prices that are reasonable for both quality and variety of food.
Sunday Brunch: The Sunday Brunch is served every Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and features Quiches and Salads, Crepes, Benedicts, and fantastic A La Carte and House Specialties.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll find unique items like French toast finished with fresh bananas and strawberries, browned in spiced rum and pure maple syrup, served with whipped cream, Melba sauce and powdered sugar.
Atmosphere & Décor
Nautical Old Florida Charm: The establishment features beautiful decor with stained glass accents and artwork from local artists, creating a warm ambiance that enhances the dining experience.
The first impression is the cleanliness, with artwork on the walls for sale by local artists. You’ll feel transported to coastal Florida even though you’re inland.
Live Entertainment: One of the special features is live music on Sunday nights, where a guitar player sings Bob Dylan and other classic tunes. Live music throughout the week makes for perfect ambiance. The entertainment adds to the relaxed atmosphere without overpowering conversation.
Spacious Layout: The clientele tends to be a more mature group, creating a sophisticated dining environment. The parking lot is spacious with easy access to the entrance and exit, and the restaurant accommodates wheelchairs and families with young children.
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Generous Portions & Fair Pricing: Patrons rave about the deliciously oversized platters that provide not just a meal, but lasting memories. You get way more than you can eat for the price. The prices are a bit higher, but fair for today’s dining out experience. You’ll likely have plenty of leftovers to take home, making the value even better.
Full Service Bar: The full service bar has everything you could want, and the restaurant also has an extensive wine list. You can start your meal with a giant Bloody Mary from the bar or explore their selection of cocktails and locally sourced beers.
Reservation Recommendations: The restaurant takes reservations, which is especially important for the popular Friday and Saturday night buffets where reservations are advised. You’ll want to call ahead during busy periods to ensure you don’t have to wait.
Family-Friendly but Sophisticated: The restaurant accommodates families with young children while maintaining an upscale atmosphere. You’ll find this is the perfect spot for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something beyond typical casual dining.
Blue Water Bay Restaurant
📍 319 State Rd 26, Melrose, FL 32666
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