Boca Raton magazine July/August 2015

BOCAMAG.COM

TH E BOCA I NTERV I EW Q&A: GLORIA ESTEFAN

MURDER IN GAINESVILLE 25 YEARS AFTER THE RIPPER

NOW SHOWING

GREAT FLORIDA ESCAPES SUMMER TRAVEL DEALS

THE [ONLY] BOCA RATON MAGAZINE

BEST OF

BOCA 2015

BOCA RATON

|

PALM BEACH

|

© 2015 Douglas Elliman Real Estate.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

324 East Coconut Palm Road, Boca Raton | Web# RX-10132660

FORT LAUDERDALE

|

MIAMI

|

MIAMI BEACH

|

NEW YORK

|

LOS ANGELES

|

ASPEN

EVERY MARKET DEMANDS ITS OWN STRATEGY. WHAT’S YOURS? Whether it’s a relaxing getaway or an oceanfront estate, dream homes in South Florida are ubiquitous. Home to sun, sand, and breathtaking views, it is no surprise that South Florida draws buyers from around the world. Palm Beach to Miami Beach, when it comes to South Florida, Douglas Elliman agents are the experts. Let Douglas Elliman guide you in your search from beginning to end.

ASKELLIMAN.COM

SENADA ADZEM Douglas Elliman and Knight Frank are global leaders in the real estate market today. Represented in 52 countries with over 17,000 real estate professionals, the companies jointly market $47 Billion of prime real estate worldwide.

Senada Adžem, Douglas Elliman’s #1 Top Producer in Palm Beach County, consistently delivers profit gains for her clients within highly competitive U.S. real estate investment markets.

She is a trusted advisor to leaders in business, entertainment and diplomacy and has sold over $425,000,000 in real estate since 2006. Senada is recognized as a national real estate expert by the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and The Real Deal and is a regular guest on Bloomberg and Fox Business News. Senada is a CNBC contributor and is featured on CNBC’s documentary series “Mega Homes: Secret Lives of the Super Rich.”

Director Of Luxury Sales | 561.322.8208 444 E Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton www.SenadaAdzemBernard.elliman.com

SENADA’S SUMMER COLLECTION

Nirvana | Manalapan, Florida | $27,500,000 | Nirvana is a spectacular oceanfront sanctuary located in the prestigious Estate Section of Manalapan. This custom gated mansion is a masterpiece situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal. With over an acre and a half of prime oceanfront property, this ultra-luxurious estate also includes a private dock to the west, large enough for a mega-yacht. The 16,087 sf residence includes 6 bedrooms, 10 full baths and 3 half baths. Featured on CNBC “Secret Lives of the Super Rich”. RX-10134593

The Le Lac Estate | Boca Raton, Florida | $19,950,000 | This extraordinary Tuscan-style villa boasts nine acres of tropical lakefront splendor in the exclusive community of Le Lac. The palatial residence is comprised of 16,140 sq. ft. with 8 Bedrooms, 9 full and 3 half baths with a separate guest house and sports complex. Luxurious appointments and breathtaking views enhance an unmatched setting for entertaining on a grand scale. The estate combines elegance, luxury and privacy and features its own private lake.

ASKELLIMAN.COM © 2015 Douglas Elliman Real Estate. All material presented herein is intended for information purposes only. While, this information is believed to be correct, it is represented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. All property information, including, but not limited to square footage, room count, number of bedrooms and the school district in property listings are deemed reliable, but should be verified by your own attorney, architect or zoning expert.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Authorized Dealer A. Lange & Söhne • De Bethune • FP Journe • Harry Winston • IWC • Jaeger LeCoultre • Van Cleef & Arpels Mizner Park, Boca Raton, FL • 561.361.2311 • lesbijoux.com

history a n d heroes.

luminor submersible 1950 3 days automatic titanio (ref. 305)

PANERAI BOUTIQUE ASPEN - 400 East Hyman Avenue - Tel. 970-544-1868 - aspen@panerai.com BOCA RATON - 318 Plaza Real - Tel. 561-361-6526 - bocaraton@panerai.com NAPLES - Waterside Shops - Tel. 239-598-2221 - naples@panerai.com PALm BEACh - 150 Worth Avenue - Tel. 561-833-8955 - palmbeach@panerai.com Exclusively at Panerai boutiques and select authorized watch specialists. pa n e r a i . c o m

Yaffa & Associates, P.A. No ordinary Law Firm

T

By Dan Baldwin

he practice of Family Law is about more than just the law at Yaffa & Associates, P.A.; it is about how the firm can best help individual clients through their unique and often difficult legal, personal and professional issues.

The realization that the firm is no ordinary firm is obvious from the moment a client or potential client enters the office when he or she is greeted by soft music and the fragrance of scented candles.

“This is just an introduction to our efforts to assure the client that the divorce process will be made as stress free as possible.”

The firm takes a holistic approach to serving its clients. Yaffa makes the effort to know her clients personally and understands where they are emotional. She attempts to litigate cases based on what her clients can emotionally and realistically handle. Some cases are litigated heavily, and at a fast pace, and some cases are moved at a slower pace to allow the clients time to adjust to the barrage of changes in their lives.

Yaffa & Associates, P.A. is a boutique firm, meaning, the attorneys are able to attend to even the smallest of details for each client – legally and emotionally. The firm works with therapists and other professionals needed to facilitate a new life. The attorneys have a policy of always going the extra mile and taking steps normally not associated with people in the legal profession, such as sending each client a personalized gift on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, a card on a birthday, or some other event in the client’s life.

Yaffa loves litigation and the action within the courtroom. “We’re ready to litigate and I personally love to be in the courtroom. You have to do the right thing by your client and the cost/ benefit calculation always has to be there. That’s litigating. When you get there, it takes strategy, planning and execution.”

Yaffa & Associates, P.A. sponsors and supports empowerment groups, yoga classes, and parenting skills seminars. They also work closely with various therapists and other professionals in the

Doreen M Yaffa, ESQ.

area. “It’s really a holistic approach. It’s trying to take the time to understand our clients and what they’re going through and what they may need outside of the law firm and getting them those resources,” Yaffa says.

“We know our clients are possibly going through the worst times of their lives, so they’re not necessarily thinking the way they would normally think. They rely on us to help them and that’s exactly what we do. It’s always great to hear a sincere ‘thank you’ from a client. Thankfully, we get to hear that a lot.”

Yaffa & Associates, P.A. 301 Yamato Road, Suite 2190 Boca Raton, FL 33431 (561) 276-3880 info@yaffapa.com

Yaffa & Associates FAMILY LAW ATTORNEYS

Luxury Meets Value.

Vista BMW of North Broward

www.vistabmw.com 1-866-504-4244

Hablamos Español

Special Lease & Finance Offers Available by Vista BMW Through BMW Financial Services.

Coconut Creek 4401 W Sample Road • Coconut Creek

Pompano Beach

AtlanticAve.

(NE Corner of Sample Rd. @ Lyons Rd. Just 1 Mile West of Florida Turnpike)

(On US-1 North of Atlantic Blvd.)

1-888-805-3796 VistaBMW.com

744 N. Federal Hwy • Pompano Beach

1-888-288-1249 Commercial Blvd

VistaBMW.com

AtlanticAve.

Sales Hours: M-F: 9am-9pm • Sat: 9am-8pm Sun: 11am-6pm

Sales Hours: M-Thu: 9am-8pm • F-Sat: 9am-7pmSun: 12pm-6pm

ANGELA LO Valedictorian Attending UPenn in the fall Career Goal: Surgeon

EMMA PEREZ Salutatorian Attending U of Chicago in the fall Career Goal: U.S. Supreme Court Justice

Congratulations to our Valedictorian & Salutatorian!

We are proud to be #1 in Palm Beach County for highest number of National Merit Scholars $13 Million in college scholarships offered to the Class of 2015

College Preparatory School for PK3–Grade 12 www.ahschool.com

6200 Linton Blvd. Delray Beach, FL 33484 (561) 495-7272

JULY/AUGUST 2015

Vol. 35, Issue 5

features Boca 76 The InTervIew

Gloria Estefan goes back in time with Boca Raton, chronicling her remarkable rise on the eve of a Broadway musical about her life. by kevin kaminski

of boca 81besT & beyond

Join us in celebrating a year in the life of Boca and beyond—from community newsmakers and cultural highlights to restaurant buzz and locals who made a difference. by kevin kaminski, marie speed and john thomason

& 98 hauTe homegrown

Start your summer off in style with fashion and accessories originated in our own backyard. photography by aaron bristol

wake 104 InofThe The rIpper Gloria Estefan

Twenty-five years after a series of gruesome murders rocked the University of Florida, memories of the Gainesville Ripper are still fresh in the minds of people—including Boca residents—who lived through the nightmare. by nila do simon

drIve-In 112 The challenge

What was once an essential form of movie watching is now a South Florida relic—but that hasn’t stopped three area drive-ins from keeping the big screen alive. by john thomason

116 florIda escapes

Thanks to the variety of renowned destinations right here in the Sunshine State, great summer getaways are only a short drive away. by kevin kaminski and marie speed

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

11

july/august 2015

vol. 35, no. 5

143

51FEEl good

An experienced cyclist and a local travel expert offer tips and destinations for those seeking a more adventurous vacation. by lisette hilton

57 stYlE & dEsign

Homeowners are going green when it comes to interior touches.

by brad mee

70 FacE timE

The new face of Mizner Park discusses the future of the downtown destination; also, meet a doctor enjoying a dose of reality and a woman who is changing the way we look at postpartum depression. by kevin kaminski, marie speed and john thomason

departments

26

125 backstagE pass

mail

Readers comment on articles in recent issues of Boca Raton.

28 Editor’s lEttEr by kevin kaminski

31 HomE town

You might just see some familiar faces in our snapshots from talked-about social events in and around Boca Raton. by stefanie cainto

191spEEd bumps

Boca residents continue to express concern over downtown growth, but we may be missing the bigger picture.

43 sHop talk

Sun worshippers, rejoice!

We have you covered from head to toe, from the latest swimwear and beach styles to products that will keep you safe from the rays.

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Don’t leave home without it—our comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in South Florida, including new reviews of Max’s Social in Delray and La Ferme in Boca.

179 out & about

by stefanie cainto, kevin kaminski and john thomason

|

143 dining guidE reviews by bill citara

Celebrate the people, places and events that give our community its identity— including a Boca club that puts children first and a man who lights the way for local residents.

12

In the South Florida theater world, no one has an ear for sound quite like Matt Corey. Also, meet a visual artist who happens to be a man of many words, and check out the Hot List for July and August. by john thomason

It’s been a year to remember in and around Boca Raton, including, for the editor, an encounter with Kathie Lee that did not disappoint.

by brenna fisher

51

43

by marie speed

192 mY turn

A recent birthday celebration gives the author reason to ponder why life is like a roll of toilet paper. by john shuff

Elevate your experience. Play your favorite Las Vegas style slots, enjoy the thrill of live Blackjack, indulge at the world-class NYY Steak and live it up at Legends Lounge.

LIVE THE GOOD LIFE. casinococo.com Must be at least 21 years old to play Slots and Table Games or to receive Player’s Club benefits. Must be 18 or older to play Live Poker. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1.888.ADMIT.IT.

bocamag.com Web extras Check out these bonus items unique to bocamag.com, related to stories in the July/August issue of Boca Raton or pertaining to events in our area: sUMMer oF FUN: The biggest movies and the best concerts are hitting screens and stages all over South Florida, and bocamag.com’s team of movie and music reviewers has you covered— from the lowdown on “The Avengers: Age of Ultron” to a recap of the Barenaked Ladies at Sunset Cove in west Boca.

FroNt-seat FILMs: A&E writer John Thomason not only takes readers to the drive-in this issue (page 112), he gives cinema buffs something to chew on under the Web Extras link with his list of the Top 10 Movies Best Seen at a Drive-In Theater.

see aNd be seeN: Photos from spring and summer events and fundraisers continue to pour in. See who wore it well at the area’s most buzz-worthy events by visiting the “Photos” section of our In The Mag link.

More GetaWays: Looking to hit the road and decompress for a few days?

In addition to the destinations mentioned in this issue’s “Florida Escapes” feature (page 116), other in-state properties are luring locals. Visit the Travel link at bocamag.com, and check out reviews of South Florida resorts, special deals and much more.

tHe FoUr seasoNs (oF Food): We’ve covered Boca long enough to know that our readers can’t get enough when it comes to the foodie scene. That’s why we’ve added a new blog: “Seasonal Finds” with Amanda Jane, who dishes on ingredients and recipes specific to the time of year.

do as We say

What started as a fun way for everyone involved with Boca Raton to contribute to bocamag.com has become must-read material each Friday for our loyal online audience.

Check out our weekly “Staff Picks” (under the Community link) for ideas on the hottest happy hours, retail buzz, where to dine, what shows to see—and much more.

14

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Spring leek crab cakes from Amanda Jane

FIND US oN SocIal meDIa

Don’t miss Boca Raton on everything from Facebook (facebook. com/bocamag) to google+ (google.com/+bocamag.com) and Pinterest (pinterest.com/bocamag) for community news, insider tips, beauty trends, fashion inspiration—and even chances to win prizes. Follow us on Twitter (@ bocamag) for restaurant and retail updates, as well as fashion events.

bocamag.com In Case You Missed It

No one covers the community more thoroughly than Boca Raton and bocamag.com, the only South Florida magazine website with unique daily content and a dedicated team of reporters. Here are just a few recent highlights from our award-winning blog coverage. morning miracles

Fau business Plan comPeTiTion “The Adams Center for Entrepreneurship at Florida Atlantic university—under the direction of Kimberly Gramm (pictured, far right), who champions the startup vision like no one in Boca—continues to be a field of business dreams for those trying to push their fledgling operations to the next level. look no further than the recent Business Plan Competition, which gave FAu students and entrepreneurs an opportunity to rub elbows with and learn from established business leaders, angel investors and other experts.”

—kevin kaminski, community link

The governor and The medicaid debacle

“Today marked the … groundbreaking of a new Caridad clinic addition—something those of us on the board … have been talking about for 15 years. … I looked at the faces of longtime board members and clinic staff and aging doctors—all of whom work to make the miracles happen there every week.

Giving eyesight to a child, helping a cancer-stricken mother get surgery … paying for a funeral or a month’s rent—all done with compassion and generosity. That’s how we’ve raised $3.8 million of the $5 million we need to finish the addition, through everyday miracles that add up to building something that is changing, and saving, lives.”

—marie speed, community link

“If Bethesda [Hospital in Boynton Beach] loses that $8 million [in Medicaid dollars] and the state doesn’t act on Medicaid expansion, “It would severely impact our operation,” said [Roger] Kirk, president and CEO of Bethesda. “We would have to reduce services and programs.” Among them: the program Bethesda uses to qualify new mothers for Medicaid. Many don’t know they are eligible. Kirk said about 80 percent of Bethesda’s free care is for obstetrics and pediatrics. Many hospitals would be in much worse shape. It is safe to say that Florida faces a potential health care crisis.”

—randy schultz, “city Watch,” community link

sTeak-house Fare ThaT vegans can enjoy

“I can’t conclude this column without mentioning the gaggle of oblivious, selfish drunk girls seated next to us, who not only disrupted the show to engage in ... “conversation” with Oswalt, but spilled a beer on my wife’s dress. Their constant cell phone usage and running commentary ruined the evening for [those] seated [nearby]. ” —review by john Thomason, a&e link

Caridad’s Connie Berry

eduardo schneider

PaTTon osWalT: Welcome To Florida

“Houston’s has one of the best veggie burgers I’ve ever tasted.

It’s made with black beans and rice, a combination that makes it complete protein. Other healthy choices include kale salad and braised cabbage.”

—”green goddess,” dining link

blog cenTral: STAy COnnECTEd TO THE COMMunITy WITH OuR TEAM OF BlOGGERS A&E: John Thomason takes readers inside the arts with concert, exhibition and movie reviews, cultural news and special profiles every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Dining: Bill Citara, Boca Raton’s well-respected food editor, breaks down the tri-county res-

16

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

taurant scene—from new reviews and dining news to kitchen gossip—every Monday, Tuesday and Friday. Also, on Wednesdays and Thursdays, look for our new foodie blogger, Amanda Jane, dishing on seasonal finds and recipes, and Alina Z.—aka, “The Green Goddess”—bringing you the latest on healthy eating options.

Shop: Discover upcoming trunk shows, store openings, moneysaving tips and fashion trends Tuesday through Thursday with our style specialists. hEAlth & BEAuty: Lisette Hilton delivers local news from the worlds of exercise and medicine every Wednesday in her “Fit Life” blog.

Community: Randy Schultz brings a reporter’s eye to Boca and beyond every Tuesday and Thursday with his “City Watch” blog; Michelle Olson-Rogers explores the family scene with “Boca Mom Talk” every other Wednesday; and our in-house team keeps you on top of local events and happenings—including Friday “Staff Picks.”

summer of sientra

the search for the perfect body

silicone breast augmentation from $3,925* June & July 2015 only

Andrew H. rosentHAl, Md

561-880-8866 *Go to www.bocAsurGeon.coM for full detAils The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment.

ABSOLUTE MAKEOVER REFINISH YOUR OLD PATIO FURNITURE TRANSFORM YOUR OUTDOORS

the [only] boca raton magazine group editor-in-chief

marie speed

editor

POWDER COATING • SANDBLASTING • LARGE SELECTION OF METAL FINISHES CUSTOM FABRIC CUSHIONS • SLINGING • STRAPPING

kevin kaminski

managing editor

john thomason

web editor

taryn tacher

senior art director

lori pierino

assistant art director

nancy kumpulainen

photographers

aaron bristol eduardo schneider production managers

adrienne mayer mandy wynne

production coordinator

valentine simon

contributing writers

BEFORE

stefanie cainto, brenna fisher lisette hilton, john shuff nila do simon

AFTER

contributing photographer

scot zimmerman

video production/customer service

david shuff food editor

bill citara

home editor

brad mee

group advertising director

tim schwab

senior advertising consultants

georgette evans, bruce klein rebecca valenza advertising consultant

karen jacaruso

PRIVATE RESIDEN RESIDENCES NCES • HOTELS CONDOS • COUNTRY CLUBS

JES publishing

Restore your patio furniture for a fraction of the cost of replacement.

Save money and the environment.

C ALL FO R A F RE E E STIM ATE

954.917.2715 1254 N.W. 21st Street | Pompano Beach, Fl 33069 | www.absolutepowdercoat.com

absolutepatio_brm0514.indd | bj uol yc/ aaumg au sgt . 2c0o11m5 18

5/27/15 2:44 PM

1000 Clint Moore Road, #103 Boca Raton, FL 33487 561/997-8683 (phone) 561/997-8909 (fax) www.bocamag.com magazine@bocamag.com (general queries)

Boca Raton magazine is published eight times a year by JES Publishing. The contents of Boca Raton magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Boca Raton magazine accepts no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. Boca Raton magazine reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material and is not responsible for products. Please refer to corporate masthead.

Boca’s only on-the-water dining experience

What Are You Doing This Summer?

Two great waterfront dining options provide the prefect setting to enjoy a cool breeze, a great view, and an unforgettable meal.

A DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

999 EAST CAMINO REAL

|

W AT E R S T O N E B O C A . C O M

Casual has never been so memorable

B O C A R AT O N |

|

O N T H E I N T R A C O A S TA L

5 6 1. 3 6 8 . 9 5 0 0 F O R R E S E R V AT I O N S

JES publishing

president/publisher controller circulation director subscription coordinator

margaret mary shuff jeanne greenberg david brooks kat algeo

JES Publishing produces:

Boca Raton magazine Delray Beach magazine Mizner’s Dream Worth Avenue Boca Raton Chamber Annual Salt Lake magazine • Utah Bride and Groom Utah Style & Design • The Canyons Salt Lake Visitors’ Guide

Florida Magazine association 2014 charlie awards charlie award (first place) best overall magazine (Boca Raton) best overall writing (Boca Raton) best overall use of photography (Boca Raton)

silver award best redesign (Boca Raton)

bronze award best overall online presence (Boca Raton) best feature (Boca Raton) best cover (Boca Raton) best custom consumer magazine (Worth Avenue)

2013 charlie awards charlie award (first place) best overall online presence (Boca Raton) best department (Boca Raton)

silver award best overall magazine (Boca Raton) best column (Boca Raton)

bronze award best online video (Boca Raton)

2012 charlie awards charlie award (first place) best overall magazine (Boca Raton) best feature (Delray Beach) best photographic essay (Boca Raton)

silver award best overall online presence (Boca Raton) best use of photography (Boca Raton)

bronze award best in-depth reporting (Boca Raton)

2011 charlie awards charlie award (first place) best new magazine (Delray Beach) best custom publication (Worth Avenue)

bronze award best overall magazine (Boca Raton)

2010 charlie awards charlie award (first place) best overall magazine (Boca Raton) best overall design (Boca Raton)

InTheBlack_brm0715.indd | bj uol yc/ aaumg au sgt . 2c10o1m5 20

5/26/15 9:55 AM

THE BEST TAXI SERVICE IN TOWN!

Download the TaxiTaxiMobile app and save $10 with Coupon Code “RIDETAXITAXI”

Say Hello

Downlo $10 w

(561)

222-3333

[561]

Ride w

Ride with us at www.taxitaxiofpalmbeach.com

services [ directory ] Boca Raton magazine is published eight times a year, with January, February, March/April, May/June, July/ August, September/October, November and December issues. If you have any questions or comments regarding our magazine, call us at 561/997-8683. We’d love to hear from you.

AvAntoi SeA

[ subscription, copy purchasing and distribution ]

MArSell rAquel AllegrA ullA JohnSon officine creAtive rick owenS

rOYAL PALM PLACE BocA rAton 561-367-9600

LAS OLAS ft. lAuDerDAle 954-524-2585

www.DeborahJames.com

r13

deborahjames_brm0715.indd 1

4/27/15 3:07 PM

The World’s Finest Man Made Gems

Diamond Quality Cubic Zirconia Set in Solid 14K Gold, 18K Gold & P LATINUM

Seeing is Believing!

Visit us today and experience Palm Beach’s best kept secret for over 35 years!

Ideal Jewelry for Traveling Customer Conndentiality  Thousands of styles available  Custom Design & Replica Specialists  Serving Jewelry Lovers since 1978  

For any changes or questions regarding your subscription, to purchase back issues, or to inquire about distribution points, ask for circulation director David Brooks at 877/553-5363.

[ advertising resources ] Take advantage of Boca Raton magazine’s prime advertising space—put your ad dollars to work in the premier publication of South Florida. For more information, contact group advertising director Tim Schwab (tim@ bocamag.com).

[ custom publishing ] Create a magazine tailored to fit the needs and character of your business/organization. Ideal for promotions, special events, introduction of new services, etc. Contact Marie Speed (editor@bocamag.com).

[ story queries ] Boca Raton magazine values the concerns, interests and knowledge of our readers about the community. Please submit story and profile ideas by e-mail to Kevin Kaminski (kevin@bocamag.com). Due to the large volume of pitches, the editor may not respond to all queries. Boca Raton does not accept unsolicited, ready-for-print stories.

[ web queries ] Submit information regarding our website and online calendar to Web editor Taryn Tacher (taryn@bocamag.com).

[ letters ] Your thoughts and comments are important to us. All letters to the editor may be edited for style, grammar and length. Send letters to the address listed below, or to Kevin Kaminski (kevin@bocamag.com).

Letter to the Editor Boca Raton magazine 1000 Clint Moore Road, #103 Boca Raton, FL 33487

[ arts & entertainment ] Where to go, what to do and see throughout South Florida. Please submit information regarding galas, art openings, plays, readings, concerts, dance or other performances to A&E editor John Thomason (john.thomason@ bocamag.com). Deadline for entries in an upcoming A&E section is three months before publication.

Martini Studs in 14K Gold starting at $125/pair Eternity Bands in 14K Gold starting at $550

Mystique

[ dining guide ] Madeline Cocktail Ring in 14K gold, starting at $1495

[ people ]

of Palm Beach

250 WORTH AVENUE , PALM BEACH FL (561) 655-3008 www.MystiqueGems.com mystiquegems_brm0115.indd | bj uol yc/ aaumg au sgt . 2c0o11m5 22

Our independent reviews of restaurants in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. A fine, reliable resource for residents and tourists. For more information, contact Marie Speed or Kevin Kaminski.

6/1/15 11:06 AM

A photo collage of social gatherings and events in Boca Raton and South Florida. All photos submitted should be identified and accompanied by a brief description of the event (who, what, where, when). E-mail images to people@bocamag.com.

#1 in Math Competition Top high school in Palm Beach County in Florida math competition Good Luck at National Championship!

College Preparatory School for PK3–Grade 12 www.ahschool.com

6200 Linton Blvd. Delray Beach, FL 33484 (561) 495-7272

services

“Before you and your staff from Boca Nursing Services started taking care of Helen and I, we existed; now we are living again! Thank you, Rose.”

-Dr. K.D.

[ directory ] tHANK yoU For SUBScriBiNG to BOCA RATON MAGAZiNe! We appreciate your business, and we want you to get the most from your subscription. This customer guide will help you contact us for all your subscription needs.

Rose Glamoclija, R.N. Founder and Administrator

[ first issue ] Your first issue will be mailed four-to-six weeks after receipt of your order. Subsequent issues will arrive every other month and monthly from November to February.

[ missing or late issues ]

It’s The Personal Touch That Makes The Difference

• • • • •

Registered Nurses Licensed Practical Nurses Certified Nursing Assistants Home Health Aides Physical Therapy

• • • • •

Lic#HHA20196095

Offering Quality Private Duty Nursing Care and Care Management Services Since 1993 Available 24 Hours a Day Companions Live-Ins Homemakers Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy

Serving Broward, Palm Beach, Martin & St. Lucie Counties 342 E. Palmetto Park Rd., Suites 1 & 2 Boca Raton, FL 33432

340 Royal Poinciana Way, Suite 322-B Palm Beach, FL 33480

Fax (561) 347-7567

Fax (561) 833-3460

(561) 347-7566

(561) 833-3430

bocanursing_brm0215.indd 1

“Who was that celebrity at Mizner Park?”

5/11/15 4:52 PM

“That event last night was amazing!”

Once in a while, production, transportation or the postal service may delay delivery. If you don’t get an issue, or if your magazine is repeatedly late, please call and report your problem to our subscription department at 877/553-5363, or send an e-mail to: subscriptions@bocamag.com.

[ if you have questions about your invoice ... ] If you have already paid your bill and then receive a new bill, here’s what you should do: 1. If you have paid your bill within the past four weeks, ignore the new invoice. (The computer simply has not given your account credit quickly enough.)

2. It’s most likely that your payment and our notice just crossed in the mail; check the date on the notice to see when we mailed it.

3. If you get another bill or renewal notice, call our subscription department at 877/553-5363, or send an e-mail to subscriptions@bocamag.com, and we will straighten out the problem.

[ change of address ] permanent: If you are changing your address, send us your complete old address, complete new address, including ZIP code, and the effective date of the change.

You can also leave us a message with your old and new address by calling 877/553-5363. You can also change your address online at bocamag.com. temporary or seasonal: Please send us your complete permanent address, your complete temporary address and the dates that you want your issues forwarded.

[ back issues ] If you are interested in purchasing any back issues, please call 877/553-5363, ext. 222, indicating the issue date you would like. The cost of each issue including shipping and handling is $9.95.

[ gift subscriptions ] You’ll find a subscription to Boca Raton magazine makes a thoughtful and useful gift that lasts throughout the year. If you’d like more information about giving a gift subscription, please call our subscription department at 877/553-5363.

bocamag.com/tv

[ online subscriptions ] Receive additional savings by subscribing online. Visit bocamag.com for more information.

Your best resource for exclusive videos of events around town, celebrity appearances and much more.

BocamagTV-square_2015.indd | bj uol yc/ aaumg au sgt . 2c0o1m51 24

[ for any of the above services, please contact our subscriptions services department ] Call TOLL FREE: 877/553-5363 E-mail: subscriptions@bocamag.com Write: Boca Raton magazine Subscription Department 1000 Clint Moore Road, #103 Boca Raton, FL 33487 6/1/15 11:09 AM

Boca’S fIRSt BoaRD-ceRtIfIeD feMale PeDIatRIc DentISt GetS neW iPluS laSeR! After having used Biolase laser technology since she opened her office in Boca Raton, Dr. Saadia has invested in the latest technology for her patients. The iPlus laser allows her to treat most of her little patients who have cavities with no shots. The laser also allows her to help gently “wiggle” teeth out rather than the old fashioned pulling.

Call us today to schedule your appointment!

561-477-3535

What are the benefits of iPlus laser dentistry?

• Since, in most cases, there are no needles or any numbness, kids will not chew their lips or tongue upon leaving the office and can eat right away.

• The laser’s pinpoint accuracy allows the dentist to leave as much healthy tooth as possible, when removing tooth decay.

• The laser performs numerous soft tissue (gum) procedures with little or no bleeding and no need for sutures.

• Soft tissue healing after laser surgery is faster than surgery done with traditional scalpel blades or elector surgery. iPlus laser uses only light and water to cut, so surgical sites heal very quickly and with minimal or no bleeding.

What can be done in the dental office with iPlus laser?

• iPlus Laser results in the very conservative removal of decay resulting minimally invasive cavity preparations.

• iPlus Laser is very efficient at gum re-contouring (gingivectomy) procedures, especially during and after orthodontics (braces).

• iPlus Laser is ideal for relieving a child who is tongue-tied. Where the tongue cannot move normally because it is held by too short of a fibrous cord of a tissue in the floor of the mouth.

• iPlus Laser can relieve painful canker sores with guaranteed accelerated healing.

Saadia I. Mohamed, D.D.S. First female Board Certified Pediatric Dentist in Boca Raton Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Member of College of Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

9250 Glades Rd., Suite 212 Boca Raton 561-477-3535 pbpdcares.com

mail The Way We Were Our look back at Boca Raton of the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s (“The Way We Were”) drew so much social media feedback that we were unable to include all of the recollections in the feature that ran in our May/June issue.

So we continue the stroll down memory lane here.

Having [recently] spent many wonderful afternoons and evenings enjoying lectures and performances during Festival of the Arts in Mizner Park, I’m reminded of a conversation from 13 years ago. Many readers will remember the huge controversy over building Mizner Park. Jamie Snyder spearheaded the project, in part, as an effort to rejuvenate a withering downtown Boca. Jamie, and many others, eventually brought this project to fruition. Now, Mizner Park is Boca Raton and one of our brightest accomplishments.

Thirteen years ago, my husband and I were driving to dinner with Wendy Larsen and her husband, Bob Long. Wendy turned to us

and asked, “What would you think of having an amphitheater at the north end of Mizner Park?” Well, of course we thought that would be fantastic. But what an undertaking—particularly in light of how long it took to get Mizner Park approved.

So here we were [in March], celebrating nine years of Festival of the Arts, thanks to Wendy Larsen and her business partner, Charlie Siemon. I just can’t believe the progress Boca Raton has made from that sleepy little town I came to in 1966.

—Gayl Hackett Boca Raton My parents moved us to Boca in 1980. We came from suburban Connecticut. I remember getting off the turnpike on Glades Road and turning onto Powerline, which was a dirt road. I [looked at my parents and] thought, “What the hell are you getting us into?”

The best decision ever.

—Lisa Loughlin Facebook

At Glades and the turnpike there was a 300acre orange grove—it’s now a development called Boca Grove Plantation. West of the turnpike on the north side of Glades was some land owned and farmed by Kermit Dell.

He was in charge of the Lake Worth Drainage District. He grew seasonal crops year-round.

North of Glades had a few different owners—mostly Mazzoni Farms, which grew gladiolus for cut flowers. There was a large nursery owned by one of Boca’s mayors, Mr. Turner—the largest nursery in the area for years until he sold it and moved to the corner of the turnpike and west Atlantic Avenue in the 1970s.

—Brent Robinson Facebook I grew up on Glades Road. My dad had Wayside Gardens Nursery, [which] dead-ended at 441. We had lots of bean fields around us.

—Karen Turner Weller Facebook

u t o ? You need b a d n a t u O bocamag.com! wheRe to eat, what to do, how to get there

Your best resource for daily Boca news, our team of bloggers keeps you in the know.

Instant access to Boca Raton magazine’s independent reviews of the best local restaurants.

Don’t forget to find us here too!

Need something to do? Stay informed about the most popular events in our area.

mobile-halfhoriz_house2014.indd | bj uol yc/ aaumg au sgt . 2c0o1m5 1 26

@bocamag

/bocamag

BocaRatonMagazine

/bocamag

@bocamag

@bocamag

6/1/15 11:17 AM

My grandfather started coming to Boca Raton in the late 1940s early ’50s. He used to fly his own airplane to Boca Raton airport and play golf at the Boca Raton Hotel. … My father could write a book about his experiences in the area as he was a city planner in the 1960s and ’70s, as well as a city commissioner. I was born in Boca Raton in 1964—there was no hospital at the time; I was born in Boynton Beach at Bethesda. …

My family worked very hard to build Boca Raton, the hospital, the sewer treatment plant, dredging the beaches for the inlet— and many other things that preserved Boca for [future generations] to enjoy. … Boca is being destroyed by the new society of people that don’t realize the dream in the vision that drew them here. They are destroying an area that all of Boca’s best memories came from.

I am among the very few children of Boca to have socialized with the true pioneers of Boca Raton.

—William K. Archer Facebook

[I remember back when] Gracie’s was just a little hut on 20th Street, and the 40th Street bridge wasn’t even built yet, and the Boca Inlet was just beautiful pines and sand. You could park anywhere along A1A and walk down to the beach. To me, that’s old Boca!

—Jeffrey Martin Facebook

CrossFit Kudos On behalf of my husband and I, owners of CrossFit Kismet, we would like to thank you for including us in the [May/June] issue. I have been in Boca Raton since high school as a student at Pope John Paul II. I have followed Boca Raton magazine since that time and have always enjoyed the thoughtful articles and classic photography. … I always enjoy reading articles about real people in the community.

—Jaqueline Kidawski E-mail

sAVE tHE dAtE After a successful first year in Delray Beach, the LPGA Legends Tour announced this spring that it will return to Seagate Country Club for the Walgreens Charity Championship on Nov. 6-7, with pre-tournament events earlier in the week. Visit thelegendstour.com for more info.

CorrECtion In the May/June issue, our “Boca by the Numbers” page featured an item on Polo Club of Boca Raton, which offers a Discover Polo Experience for those curious about the country club lifestyle. The price of the three-day package—which includes accommodations, meals and amenities—changed as our issue went to the printer. The correct price is $499.

Follow us at www.facebook.com/bocamag

ARTSINBOCA.ORG This is what you want!

Performances • Events • Exhibitions Find it at www.artsinboca.org

THE GREATER BOCA RATON CULTURAL CONSORTIUM, INC.

bocaculturalconsortium_brm0115.indd 1

|

27

b o c a m a g . c5/14/15 o m 4:09 PM follow the leader

editor’s letter

[ by kevin kaminski ]

Don’t Look a Gifft Horse

L

ong before she gained a national following as Kathie Lee Gifford’s morning wine-tasting partner on “Today,” Hoda Kotb was busy building a résumé at local television stations from Moline, Ill., to Greenwood, Miss. Among her ladder rungs was a short stint in the early 1990s at the CBS affiliate in Fort Myers, which is where our paths briefly crossed.

Hoda was an on-air reporter and weekend anchor at WINKTV; I was a fresh-out-of-college sports writer at the Fort Myers News-Press. Occasionally, we’d bump into one another at charity fundraisers or at some sporting event that topped the headlines on a news-starved day in Fort Myers.

Despite chatting several times, I didn’t seem to be making much of an impression on Hoda. I know this because I had to re-introduce myself each time we met. In retrospect, it could have been because I was rocking a hair style that would have made Billy Ray Cyrus proud. Or that I had “game” better suited for the bowling alley bar frequented by the News-Press sports department. Undaunted, I mustered up the courage to ask Hoda out following some strange “celebrity” tennis event on Sanibel Island that featured members of the local media. Much to my shock, and to the shock of those in the sports department who had witnessed my awkward advances, she agreed.

We bypassed the dinner-and-drinks routine for an evening under the lights … at the tennis court in my apartment complex (her idea, by the way). We played for about 90 minutes. I remember two things about that night: 1) Hoda ran me all over the court; and 2) afterward, she said goodbye—forever.

That morning, her agent had called to tell her she was heading to a larger market. Hoda would spend the next six years in New Orleans. I would spend the next two in Miami, taking over the Dolphins beat for the News-Press. All of which made our “date,” in sports parlance, a one-and-done.

I hadn’t thought much about that night on the tennis court until this year’s Boca Bacchanal. As part of the weekend festivities that benefit the Boca Raton Historical Society, Kathie Lee participated in a private vintner dinner at Bobby Campbell’s house and showcased her line of fine wines— Gifft—at the Grand Tasting.

28

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

At the Tasting, which was held for the first time inside an airport hangar at Atlantic Aviation, Kathie Lee couldn’t have been more gracious. She posed for selfies, she signed autographs—and she even spent time on camera with BocaMagTV. After our interview, Kathie Lee and I exchanged small talk for a few moments, and, for whatever reason, I told her that way back in 1991, I went out with her “Today” co-host. I joked about what could have been had she not taken that job in New Orleans.

At which point, Kathie Lee reached for my forearm, looked me straight in the eyes and deadpanned: “Hoda … that filthy slut.”

Kathie Lee wasn’t the only celebrity to spice things up in Boca over the past 12 months. Nor was Bacchanal the only event that made an impression. As always, our city generated so much news—and so many newsmakers—that it took the editorial team at Boca Raton 17 pages just to put some of it in perspective as part of our annual “Best of Boca” feature (page 81).

In addition, we take readers back 25 years to one of the most harrowing episodes in the state’s history, a campus murder spree in Gainesville (page 104) that forever altered countless lives, including those of two Boca residents. Plus, we catch up with South Florida musical royalty—singer Gloria Estefan—on the eve of a Broadway show that chronicles her early life in Miami and her rise to crossover queen (page 76).

Have a great summer—and enjoy the issue.

Before

Before

Before

Before

After

After

After

After

5th ANNUAL

WHITE COATS-4-CARE RECEPTION In Conjunction with Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce Festival Days

Presented and Co-chaired by Bonnie and Jon Kaye, Kaye Communications, Inc.

ebratin el

5

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

g

C

Monday, August 3, 2015 Waterstone Resort & Marina The Atlantic Ballroom 999 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton To attend this prestigious event, a gift to the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University is required: $105 $255 $505 $755 $1,005 $5,005

Doctor’s White Coat White Coat Ceremony Sponsor Medical Student Scholarship (based on need) Family/Corporate Medical Student Scholarship Award (based on need) Named Seat in the Medical Education Auditoriums (a personalized donor recognition or tribute plate will be placed on the back of each seat) “Named” medical student Scholarship Fund

To register online visit fauf.fau.edu/WC4C Or contact Sara Greene Office: 561-297-2984 Email: greenes@health.fau.edu Benefiting:

Sponsored by:

Media Sponsors:

hometown [ 32 local hero • 34 boca by the numbers • 36 hot stuff • 38 meet the expert • 40 boca chatter ]

little miss sunshine Océane Boulais, a solar technology

eduardo schneider

advocate at Florida Atlantic University, brightened up the stage at this year’s TEDx event at Mizner Park. But that’s not the only reason the electrical engineering major made our “Best of Boca” feature.

Turn to page 81 for more on Boulais (pictured here next to a solar panel)—and everything else that helped to define our community over the past 12 months.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

31

home town [ local hero ]

Students from the afterschool program in Boca

Home Away From Home

W

hen asked if there is something that might surprise people about the Boca chapter of one of the nation’s most enduring youth organizations, Dennis Carpenter doesn’t hesitate.

“It’s that there is a Boys & Girls CluB in Boca,” says the director of operations and transportation for the 13 clubs in Palm Beach County.

It’s true that more than 60 percent of students (ages 6 to 17) served at the 4,100-square-foot facility just north of Federal Highway and Yamato Road (300 Newcastle St.) have families or single parents with annual household incomes of less than $30,000, figures that hardly play into Boca’s affluent reputation.

But those numbers don’t begin to explain the loyalty that local children and familes across all demographic lines have to an organization celebrating more than a decade in Boca.

During the school week, some 90 students enjoy after-school activities and projectbased learning that focus on everything from character and leadership development to

32

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

conflict resolution, technology and the cultural arts—all for a $30 annual membership fee and a weekly transportation cost ($35). Along the way, counselors and instructors see countless examples of children, perhaps reluctant to open up at school or at home, coming into their own amid the Club’s rich support system.

“You have a safe environment with positive people overseeing the kids,” Carpenter says. “There’s all kind of learning going on, but it’s not a school setting. It’s a place to meet and bond with other children … and to build self-esteem. We’re trying to make them feel comfortable about who they are.”

The Boca chapter, launched officially as a Boys & Girls Club in 2004 after a decadelong association with New Pines, also offers summer camp for its 163 overall members at a cost of only $50 per week.

For more information—or to donate to an organization that operates on an annual budget of only $441,000—visit bgcpbc.org/boca-raton.

—kevin kaminski

AAron Bristol

Boca’s Boys & Girls Club provides far more to local children than an after-school option.

home town [ Boca By the NumBers ] What’s happening around toWn? These numbers tell part of the story during July and August.

$30

For the cost of a dining passport, foodies will have access to bites and beverages at more than a dozen restaurants on or near Atlantic Avenue during this year’s tastemakers of delray Beach—hosted by Boca Raton’s sister publication, Delray magazine, and the Downtown Development Authority. For more info on the two-day event (Aug. 5-6), visit bocamag.com.

During his first three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Boca-bred Blair Walsh has connected on 87 of 103 field goal attempts—including 17 field goals of 50 yards or longer. The Vikings kick off the NFL’s exhibition season at the annual Hall of Fame game, Aug. 9 in Canton, Ohio, against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

57th

53 8/1/15

Chances are you’ll hear at least a song or two off this Billy Joel album when Turnstiles—the local Billy Joel tribute band—performs at Mizner Park Amphitheater on July 24.

It’s part of a Friday night summer series of tribute bands, including groups paying homage to Led Zeppelin (July 17), Bon Jovi (Aug. 7) and The Eagles (Aug. 14).

34

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

DELRAY BEACH

84.5%

Congratulations to one of Boca’s most beloved philanthropic couples—Ben and Rosemary Krieger—on their recent wedding anniversary.

The Kriegers’ community involvement reads like a Rolodex of local nonprofits, from Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA) and Florence Fuller to March of Dimes and St. Jude’s Catholic Church.

Join us in raising a glass to Ben and Rosemary!

52nd Street

2015

For 31 days, starting on the first of August, the Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce pairs its nonprofit members with for-profit entities in an effort to raise awareness and funds. For the rundown of this year’s chamber Festival Days events, visit bocaratonchamber.com.

Four years after making history as the inaugural class of the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University, 53 students again made history this spring by earning their Doctor of Medicine degrees. Each member of the first graduating class has landed residencies at hospitals around the country, including Massachusetts General (Harvard University), New Haven (Yale) and Ohio State University Medical Center.

Facial and Eyelid Surgery

About the Palm Beach Eye Center Medical Team

When you are seeking a highly qualified surgeon to make you look younger or modify a genetic abnormality, Dr. Victoria ranks among the best. Dr. Victoria is an ophthalmologist who specializes in facial reconstruction for children and adults. During her participation in an ocular reconstructive surgery fellowship she learned specific training techniques in chin, neck, brow, face, and eyelid lifts as well as the use of fillers and Botox.

To learn more about how Dr. Victoria can help you, call any of Palm Beach Eye Center’s four convenient locations to schedule an appointment.

All the physicians at The Palm Beach Eye Center are expertly trained in all areas of eye care including advanced procedures requiring the latest technology. From complete eye exams to fitting glasses for your lifestyle, our experts understand the importance of proper eye care. With the recent opening of our Wellington office, our four Palm Beach County locations provide a complete range of comprehensive eye care services including: • Dry Eye Care • Diabetic Eye Care • Cataract Evaluation and Surgery • Macular Degeneration • Laser Vision/Refractive Surgery • Pediatric Ophthalmology • Glaucoma • Retina and Macular Disease • Corneal Disease • Neuro-Ophthalmology • Cosmetic Lid Surgery • Eye Floaters • And all other types of eye care services

Our Team of Eye Care Specialists Ana Carolina Victoria, M.D. Facial and Eyelid Surgery Specialist Jay S. Wallshein M.D. M.A. Wayne C. Barish, M.D. Brad D. Simons, MD, PhD, P.A. Paul E. Pataky, M.D. Yissell Sanchez, O.D. Garima Lal, M.D., P.A Emanuel Newmark M.D., FACS Peter M. Pearlman, M.D. Judah E. Beck M.D. visit our newest location

Delray Beach (561) 865-7290

Boynton Beach (561) 734-5056

Lake Worth (561) 433-5200

www.PalmBeachEyeCenter.com

Wellington (561) 798-4455

home town [ hot stuff ]

July/August Buzz

Summer in South Florida isn’t just about slathering sunscreen. Here’s what else is on our radar—from cutting rug for a cause to the sweetest treat in town. Scout’s honor!

ReseRve a lane, feed the hungRy

For 25 years, the local nonprofit Povorello Center has been working to strike out hunger for low-income sufferers of HIV/AIDS through its Bowling to fight hunger event. Supported by sponsorships for participating bowling teams, last year’s event raised $68,000 for the organization, which provided 42,000 meals to 2,600 clients. For this year’s bowl-a-thon, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 15, Povorello is hoping to raise $88,000. Support Broward County’s oldest and longest-running annual fundraiser

for those living with HIV/AIDS by knocking back pins and brews at Sawgrass Lanes (8501 N. University Drive) in Tamarac. Call 954/5613663 or visit povorello.org.

all the Right moves

Fearless and fleet of foot, eight local dignitaries will cut rugs and take names, all for charity, at the eighth annual Boca’s Ballroom Battle.

Professional hoofers from Boca’s Fred Astaire Dance Studio have been practicing all summer with community notables for the main event: an evening of performances Aug. 28 at Boca Raton Resort & Club. As always, all proceeds ben-

efit the George Snow Scholarship Fund. Purchase a ticket by sponsoring a dancer at scholarship.org.

expand youR snacking hoRizons

If you’re looking for a quick snack, don’t settle for Keebler and Ritz. How about munching like a gourmand, with handcrafted coconut-lavender almonds? Or cranberry-hazelnut crisps topped with organic goat cheese and Moroccan plum? Or a chocolate bar crafted from maple bacon and sea salt? These are enticing examples of the artisanal-snack movement,

and one Fort Lauderdale couple is combining them in handy, homedelivered packages. Anne and Seraphim Danckaert, who met while learning Romanian in Indiana (seriously) launched knoshy to provide a national platform for a wide variety of culinary crafters.

Each monthly box, retailing for $33, features four to six snack packages—some more sweet, some more savory. Visit knoshy. com to sign up.

caRRy a Big stick

In 2014, Boca Raton joined an elite organization, where it battled Bayhawks, clashed with

impRoving on peRfection Any cookie connoisseur worth his weight in sugary cocoa will tell you that it doesn’t get much better than Thin Mints, the chocolate-mint wafers that constitute 25 percent of all Girl Scout cookie sales. Ice cream aficionados will tell you it doesn’t get much better than sloan’s, the pink-walled, toy-lined satisfier of sweet teeth in South Florida. Put them together, and you’ve got Scout’s Honor—Sloan’s mint ice cream studded with Thin Mints and chocolate chunks.

This heavenly concoction is getting a local upgrade. In honor of August’s tastemakers of delray Beach, the new Sloan’s in downtown Delray (111 E. Atlantic Ave.) will offer an exclusive flavor: Delray Summer Delight, a serving of Scout’s Honor topped with coconut shavings and drizzled chocolate syrup.

Apparently, this union can get more perfect.

36

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Action from a Florida Launch game

Cannons, and raged against the (Ohio) Machine. That’s the year our city earned its first Major League Lacrosse franchise, the florida launch, one of just eight professional lacrosse teams in the nation. The Launch, which posted an inaugural record of five wins and nine losses, is heading down the home stretch of its sophomore campaign. Two more home games (played at FAU Stadium) remain, as the Launch squares off against the Charlotte Hounds on July 3 and the Rochester Rattlers on July 25. Tickets run $29.75 and are available at ticketmaster.com. Visit florida launchlacrosse.com for more info.

Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation

presents

MARTIN SHORT Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor and comedian You’ve laughed at him on Saturday Night Live, Father of the Bride, and so many other movies and prime-time appearances. But this beloved funnyman has endured the loss of two women he has loved to cancer: his wife of 30 years to ovarian cancer and his mother to breast cancer. Today Martin is a hilarious and heartbreaking advocate for cancer awareness and detection.

Join us as we welcome Martin Short to the THE 12TH ANNUAL

GO PINK

LUNCHEON

Proceeds benefit breast cancer programs at the Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Institute

Wednesday, October 21, 2015 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Boca Raton Resort & Club Tickets $175 on sale August 24th Sponsorships available 561-955-4142 https://donate.brrh.com

Martin Short

home town [ meet the expert ]

Let It Shine

The CeO Of CapiTOl lighTing lOOks baCk On his years in a family business ThaT burns brighTly in bOCa.

A

s the story goes, Ken Lebersfeld’s greatgrandfather was busy transitioning New Jersey homes from gas to electric in the early 1920s when his wife made the suggestion that would forever alter the family’s fortunes: In addition to wiring the homes, why not sell lighting fixtures as well?

What started 91 years ago in the childhood bedroom of Ken’s grandfather would expand over time into one of the nation’s top residential and commercial lighting retailers, with a combined eight showrooms in New Jersey and South Florida. Today, Capitol Lighting (7301 N. Federal Highway, 561/994-9570) is headquartered in Boca Raton; Ken, following his grandfather, father and uncle into the family business, is the company’s CEO. We asked the graduate of Emory University to take a trip down memory lane and shed some personal light on his journey.

—stefanie cainto

 My brother was 4 and I was about 8 when my father first brought us in to clean up the shop [in New Jersey]. There were all kinds of screws and parts, broken light bulbs, glass globes, sockets, and nuts and bolts—and my job was to organize it all.

Take all these parts out of the bins and put them in separate little jars. … At the end of the day, my brother and I were exhausted. We looked like coal miners. I think my dad gave us each a dollar—or maybe it was a dollar for us to split. I’m not sure.

 In 1973, my grandfather wanted to retire in Florida, so he bought a controlling interest in a lighting store that was already operational called Sunshine Lighting and changed the name to our New Jersey store’s business: Capitol Lighting. [Note: Capitol moved its first Florida store from West Palm Beach to Boca in 1980.]

 The style in Boca back then

Capitol Lighting offerings at the West Palm Beach store, circa 1970s

38

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

 In the 1980s, the shopping experience would start with a customer coming in and saying, “I’m looking for a light for my dining room.” … Customers are far more savvy now. They come in with printouts from our website [comparing] different products. They already know what the price ranges are. So what a sales person has to do is just make sure the customer is making the right decision.

AAron Bristol

involved a lot of Formica built-ins, lots of lacquered wood. The popular colors were purple and mauve and gray. I remember lots of Lucite: Lucite accessories, tables, glass-top tables with Lucite bases or chrome bases. And lots of polished chrome and polished brass.

HeatHer ScHwartzmann, Pa-c joinS core medical GrouP.

Heather Schwartzmann wants you to feel good from the inside out, that’s why she’s joined Core Medical Group. core combines the inner workings of hormone replacement therapy perfectly paired with various aesthetic procedures to restore both vitality and that youthful glow.

“when these two elements are aligned,” Schwartzmann says, “that’s when you’ll feel great.” it’s that one-two punch, that’s Schwartzmann passion, so it’s only fitting that she holds a duel degree in sciences that compliment each other.

Schwartzmann has earned both a degree in psychology from lynn university and a master of Science in Physician assistant from Keiser university, giving her the innate ability to understand the psychology of beauty and how her patients feel when something’s off kilter.

“People want to feel their best physically and psychologically — you can’t leave one part out.”

it begins with the consultation where Schwartzmann analyzes the whole patient.

“Since everything is so individualized i have to be a listener,” said Schwatzmann. “i have to really listen to what everyone wants. if we’re talking about hormone therapy i have them list all of their symptoms, then we come up a plan of action to tackle each of their concerns.” through carefully listening to her patients she’s able to piece together the symptoms of their individual medical puzzles and come up with a recipe for repair.

“For example, a pre or peri-menopausal woman may suffer from hot flashes and night sweats which leads to decreased sleep, which leads to a whole host of other medical problems — weight gain, irritability, and painful sex. through Hrt we can literally alleviate all of these symptoms leading to better sleep, more energy, better overall mood, and improvement in their relationships and daily activities. it’s about quality of life.” and nothing is off the table, she encourages her patients to confide in her. “i want my patients to feel like they can come to the clinic with any complaint or any situation and we’ll always do our best to give them the absolute best care. we take a holistic approach. i want my patients to know that there’s nothing that we can’t treat or look at.” although we think of hormones as a “lady’s issue,” Schwatzmann said the boys aren’t immune. Plenty of men suffer from hormonal imbalance and can greatly benefit from a proper diagnosis and treatment. “men who are going through andropause or who are hypogonadal may complain of

BOCA: 101 Plaza Real, Suite A, Boca Raton, FL 33432 • 561.571.3321

fatigue, loss of strength, poor concentrating, memory loss, low libido, and difficulty with erections. restoring patients hormones to their correct balance essentially gives them their life back - it makes them the man they used to be. Bringing levels back up to normal may prevent diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and osteoporosis.” to put the proverbial cherry on top of the treatment, Schwartzmann also specializes in facial injections of Botox cosmetic, dysport, and dermal fillers such as juvederm, restylane, Perlane, and radiesse. according to Schwartzmann Hrt and aesthetics work hand in hand, taking care of the patient from the inside out.

“it’s really rewarding to be able to educate the patient and give them the care that creates such a positive influence in their lives.”

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS american academy of Physician assistants Florida academy of Physician assistants Society of dermatology Physician assistants PROFESSIONAL VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE wounded warrior Project Safe Space Foundation jdrF diabetes walk Boca raton children’s museum

DELRAY: 1200 NE 2nd Ave., Suite 105, Delray Beach, FL 33444 • 561.243.1219

Florida: coremedicalgrp.com • New York: coremedicalny.com • Massachusetts: corenewengland.com

home town [ BOcA chAtter ]

Teachers’ Teachers On the eve of a new school year, local educators reflect on the instructors that influenced them to pursue their vocation.

“My favorite teacher was Mrs. Buckley, my third-grade teacher from Baylis Elementary in Syosset, N.Y. I was shy when I was younger, but she made me feel confident about myself and taught me not to be afraid to try new things. I’ll never forget when she taught our class how to play chess so we could learn to think strategically. I encourage my students to try new things and not be afraid to fail. Mrs. Buckley inspired me to be the teacher I am today.”

—Pamela Yap, second-grade teacher, American Heritage School

“My biggest inspiration in teaching has always been my mother, Sophia Caparisos. Before she retired in 2013, she taught English and French, mainly at Savannah (Ga.) Country Day School, for 20 years. Since it was a small private school, I had the pleasure of being both her daughter and her student in 10th and 12th grade. Growing up in an English teacher’s household taught me the power and beauty of language to express myself, including proper grammar (always!), a skill that I definitely bring to my classroom. She sparked an interest in studying human experience through story, whether it was Sophocles or Hemingway. Now that I teach ancient history, I use story to bring the experience of the ancient world to life for 21st-century sixth graders. In my own classroom, I find my thoughts drift to my 10th and 12th grade English classroom with my mom.”

—Kika Caparisos, social science teacher, Pine Crest School

“By the time I was a senior at Shenendehowa High School in Clifton Park, N.Y., I had envisioned a career as an engineer. ... [But] I had the luck [that year] of enrolling in two semester-long English seminars taught by Mr. Wiener. All of a sudden I was reading works that ... revealed the power of the written word to expose and champion, to shock and educate. … It was Mr. Wiener’s instruction and classroom presence that altered [my career path]. He was as passionate as a teacher could be when we read Elie Wiesel’s Night; [he] opened our eyes to the surveillance society in which we live in George Orwell’s 1984. He laughed often and smiled generously. As an English teacher today, I hope to inspire my students in the same ways Mr. Wiener inspired my passions for reading, writing and community development.”

— Matt Laliberte, upper-school English teacher, Saint Andrew’s School

40

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

“I have to say my students in the Move Through Yoga classroom are the most influential teachers I have ever known. My students have taught me more than any textbook could ever divulge. The MTY students from Boca High and Atlantic High School have taught me, and continue to reinforce, the power of having passion for, and importance of showing compassion in, education.”

—Stefanie Gross, founder, Move Through Yoga elective, Boca Raton High School

“[My favorite teacher] was ‘Crazy Joe,’ Joseph Moscinski. He was the herringboned intellectual with the elfin smile who organized bus trips to the newly constructed Lincoln Center in New York City so we hormone-driven products of New Jersey’s working class could experience stage productions of Ibsen, Miller and Williams. I thank him as I endeavor to emulate him, for he taught me that a boring classroom is non-effective to learning, and that change is the result of creativity in a mind unleashed by a nimble pen.”

— Larry Boyle, English teacher, West Boca High

TM

RO AL PALM PLACE TM

Your Style For Life

TM

PETS WELCOME!

[ by brenna fisher ]

shoptalk Lines in the sand

Given the beachfront renown of South Florida, it’s only fitting that some of our favorite swimwear lines hail from our own backyard.

Take this cut-out two-piece (Paradise, $130, lilanikole.com) from Lila nikole Rivera, a Miami designer with Latin roots whose varied styles have been seen on the runway and in Sports Illustrated. Turn the page for more locally inspired swimwear.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

43

shop talk [ fashion ]

[2]

Homespun Style

[3]

[1]

We don’t have to look far to find unique swimwear. The following brands are all South Florida bred and beloved. [ 1 ] Boca Raton-based ola Feroz (by local Jessica Garcia) offers a new spin on the side-tie bikini (Señorita bikini, $190, check for availability, olaferoz.com), with additional ties and a bold teal accent color. [ 2 ] This sporty one-piece (“Vera,” $380, flagpoleswim.com) by Flagpole, founded

by West Palm Beach natives Megan Balch and Jaime Barker, is made with imported Italian fabrics. [ 3 ] Lolita’s beachwear founder Cayetana Uranga de la Borda graduated from Lynn University and is currently based in West Palm Beach. Her swimwear line focuses on South American-style cuts from her native Peru—like this cup-style top and cheeky bottom ($120, lolitasbeachwear.com).

[4]

[ 4 ] Zannikini, based in Lighthouse Point, is the brainchild of Alexandra “Zannie” Jones. In addition to classic reversible styles like this black and white spotted set found on her site ($90, zannikini.com), Jones regularly makes new creations and shares them through social media. [ 5 ] Nikki Poulos, an Australian designer now living in South Florida, is making the most of her turn on NBC’s “Fashion Star”— as evidenced by pieces from her collection like this zip-front one-piece (“Loulou,” $175, nikkipoulos.com).

[5]

[ 6 ] Romi Tavola and Claudia Moline, owners and designers behind the mora Surf boutique and brand (1626 S.E. Third Court, Deerfield Beach), create Bohemianmeets-California beach wear like this crocheted bikini top and bottom ($52, top; $26, bottom; moragirls.com).

DESIGNING CHILDREN Inspire the youngsters in your life to create their own clothes. Sugar Sand Park (300 S. Military Trail) is offering a “Fashion, Sewing & Design” class for young fashionistas (ages 8 to 17) this summer. Second session classes are Aug. 3–7 and cost $250 for Boca Raton residents. In addition to making a garment or accessory, kids will have an opportunity to present their design in a fashion show at the end of the session. To learn more, visit sugarsandpark.org/sewing.

44

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

[6]

AGE IS JUST A

NUMBER TRANSFORM AT ANY AGE Customized transformation packages available. (online & in-person) Learn all the tools it takes to achieve & maintain the body of your dreams.

Call Today for FREE

Consultation

MintFit’s team of body transformation specialists are ready to help you achieve all of your fitness goals� (online & in-person)

Ready to take your physique to the next level?

age 51

age 44

age 48

age 41

age 41

age 45

age 50

age 48

111 E. Atlantic Ave. | Delray Beach | 561.274.7477 | mintfit.com 111 TM

shop talk [ beauty ]

Summer vs. Skin

Safety firSt There are plenty of milder products that address the

Two Boca dermatologists discuss the science behind sun-damaged skin.

cosmetic concerns of—and protect against future issues involving—sun damage. We like the following.

From left: Jodi Fiedler and Shari Topper

U

Problem area: Fine lines treatment: Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil ($72, drunkelephant.com) Why We like it: It’s 100-percent fragrance-free and absorbs quickly into skin without a greasy residue. Plus, marula oil has a high concentration of antioxidants and fatty acids, making it a great free-radical fighter, enhancing your skin-repair response to help soften existing fine lines and prevent future ones.

Problem area: Redness/ inflammation treatment: Alba Botanica Hawaiian After-Sun Lotion ($12, Whole Foods stores) Why We like it: We’re a sucker for anything related to coffee, and this soothing lotion has kona coffee and green tea to increase circulation and neutralize free radicals, respectively.

And its exotic fruity aroma smells like a vacation, which is nice even if your sunburn came from one.

Problem area: Dark spots/uneven tone treatment: Laneige Bright Renew Original Cream ($40, Target stores) Why We like it: Designed to reduce overactive melanin production and diminish existing dark spots, this hydrating cream also acts as a protective shield against environmental pollutants for up to 24 hours. Pair with Laneige BB Cushion SPF 50 for lasting makeup coverage and sun protection.

46

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Problem area: Loss of firmness treatment: Murad Age-Diffusing Firming Mask ($68, Ulta stores) Why We like it: Very refreshing, this hydrating cream mask has an immediate plumping effect on tired skin. The under-eye areas looked more awake with a reduction of fine lines.

Skin all over felt smoother. Bonus: It’s gentle enough to be used as a pick-meup three times per week.

Problem area: Dull skin treatment: StriVectin 5-Minute Weekly Glycolic Peel ($89, Strivectin.com) Why We like it: The two-step peel has a powerful combination of glycolic and other alpha hydroxy acids (the highest level available for at-home use). We noticed a pretty nice payoff for just a few minutes a week. After just one treatment, skin appeared more luminous. A second weekly treatment revealed tighter, less noticeable pores.

nless you’ve been living in a cave (without Internet access) for the past decade, then you’re aware that the sun’s rays (and UV rays from tanning booths) are not good for your skin.

“There is nothing healthy about color to your skin … that’s all cell damage,” says board-certified dermatologist Jodi Fiedler, MD, of DermPartners in Boca Raton (dermpartnersbocaraton.com).

“Solar radiation is true radiation. Just like other radiation, it’s entering the cell and damaging the DNA in that cell,” notes her partner, Shari Topper, MD, also a board-certified dermatologist.

In time, your body’s ability to repair the constant damage received from sun exposure slows down, and various symptoms of its effects become visible—ranging from discoloration and fine lines to loss of elasticity and dullness. There are cosmetic treatments for these issues; however, the doctors warn that there is no magic bullet.

Results take time, especially when there are underlying medical issues involved.

So where to start? A consistent skincare regimen with retinols or retin A is recommended for most patients, Fiedler says. “It’s the only product over the counter that has been proven to stimulate collagen growth,” adds Topper. However, not every skin can tolerate it, so it’s important to seek the advice of a dermatologist.

[trans •for•mation ] n.

1. The metamorphosis you’ll experience at liv as revealed by the unveiling of your natural beauty.

8 4 4 - L I V- B O L D | WWW.LIVPLASTICSURGERY.COM

shop talk [ InspIratIon ] GET THE LOOK:

SUMMER SHOE STYLE Rachel Berg—co-founder, buyer and creative manager of Free Love Boutique—is poised to take her boho-chic store to the next level. The former Atlantic Avenue shoe and accessory boutique (now, online store freelovefashion.com) is searching for a larger space in Delray Beach to grow the business. “It’s not just a place to come and shop,” she says. “We need room to bring in more classes, workshops and partnerships.” Luckily, the transition hasn’t affected her love of shoes or enthusiasm for new summer styles.

Here are some of her favorites.

Q&A

HIGHLIGHTS: Jelly sandals, and shoes with bright colors and bohemian details

JELLY SANDALS Lounge jelly sandal, $30, dizzysandals.com

Michelle jelly by Bootsi Tootsi, $20, DSW stores

with Rachel:

How did you end up owning a store so young?

My mom was doing wholesale and retail, selling shoes out of a warehouse. I ended up going with her to buy product for her business and … then she called me about an opening of a storefront on Atlantic. … The second I graduated I was partners with my mom [Claudia Capasso].

Why the name ‘Free Love’?

“The store first opened as ‘Nini’s Shoes,’ but I quickly changed the name to be even more meaningful. My mom has raised me on unconditional love and giving back to people who are less fortunate than us. … It’s also about giving back to the customers who have supported us.”

What do you look for in a shoe?

“We’re mainly a summer colorful line. When I’m buying, I’m looking for something that catches my eye that’s still beachy and bohemian in style.”

BRIGHT COLORS Ongeest turquoise gladiator sandal, $28, freelovefashion.com

Alessia Solari silk tie Ibiza sandals, $105, alessiasolari.com

How many shoes do you have?

“In which closet? [Laughs] … Maybe 55 pairs. That’s being modest.”

Favorite shoe stores?

“I love DSW. I love Nordstrom Rack. Just affordable, nice shoes in really trendy styles.”

Advice for shoe shopping?

“Get something that’s eye-catching but comfortable. That’s what Free Love is all about: comfort. If you don’t feel good in it or you’re only going to wear it for one occasion, don’t buy it.”

48

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

BOHEMIAN DETAILS Embellished yute wedge, $164, ondademar.com (check for availability)

Palace lace flat, $24, freelovefashion.com

When It’s Time to Sell Your Jewelry

Cartier Textured Gold and Diamond Necklace — Circa 1960

KNOWLEDGEABLE | PROFESSIONAL | IMMEDIATE PAYMENT PALM BEACH 44 COCOANUT ROW, SUITE L101 BOCA RATON MIZNER PARK* • 433 PLAZA REAL, SUITE 275 *BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

CALL US TO SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE APPOINTMENT AT (855) 347.7027 OR GET STARTED ONLINE AT circajewels.com BEVERLY HILLS | CHICAGO | GREENWICH | LONG ISLAND | NEW YORK CITY SAN FRANCISCO | SHORT HILLS | WASHINGTON D.C. | BARCELONA | MADRID | HONG KONG FREE INSURED MAIL-IN SERVICE AVAILABLE

Body Contouring

FaCe & neCk

Breast Augmentation Breast Lift Breast Liposuction Breast Reconstruction Breast Reduction Breast Asymmetry

Abdominoplasty Arm Contouring Buttock Lift Cellulaze Exilis Therapy Liposuction Medial Thigh Lift Smartlipo Thigh Contouring Total Lower Body Lift

Botox Exilis Therapy Eyelid Lift Facelift Fraxel Re:pair Laser Resurfacing Juvéderm Juvéderm Voluma™ XC Laser Lift w/ Precision Tx Neck Contouring Restylane Silk Sculptra/Ulthera SilkPeel

years

ex

celle

n

skin Care & Laser Center Exilis Therapy Icon Laser IPL Photofacials Laser Hair Removal Laser Vein Removal Sapphire Three Photofacial Sclerotherapy Sculptra/Ulthera SilkPeel SkinMedica Peels SkinMedica Products

Cristina F. KeusCh, M.D., P.a.

950 Glades Road, Suite 3 • Boca Raton, FL 33431 T: 561-368-9455 F: 561-394-8210

Our website has a fresh new look! Visit drkeusch.com today! /drkeusch Like us to be the first to learn about our specials!

ce

c

25

of

Breast

e b r at i n g

Look & feel your best… at any age!

el

[ by lisette hilton ]

feelgood The Wheel World

Cycling isn’t just a form of fitness for longtime Boca resident Eric Wallace.

It’s an adventure for the local dentist, who has embarked on two-wheel treks around the state, throughout the country and abroad. However, cycling isn’t the only way to combine outdoor activity and travel. Over the next few pages, learn about experiences and destinations that enrich the body and soul.

AAron Bristol

Eric Wallace

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

51

feel good [ fitness travel ]

Have Bike, Will Travel

Biking with Ciclismo Classico through Sardinia, off the coast of Italy

Borrow a page from a local dentist, and take a two-wheel adventure.

O

ver the past few years, Eric Wallace has cycled everywhere from Mount Dora, Fla. and Lake Tahoe, Nev., to Italy, France and Puerto Rico.

The allure, says the 62-year-old Boca resident, is in the journey. It’s seeing a destination amid the great outdoors—instead of in a car or tour bus. It’s meeting like-minded travelers. And it’s heading off the beaten tourist path.

In Italy, Wallace joined a cycling camp called Your Cycling Italia (yourcyclingitalia.com/ bike2), about 90 miles northwest of Venice. He stayed in a hotel at night and explored, with

A Butterfield and Robinson adventure in Piedmont, Italy

52

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

the help of a local guide, small towns nestled among the Italian Alps by day. In France, Wallace went with the travel company Ciclismo Classico (ciclismoclassico.com).

“We started out in the Bordeaux and went to Saint-Émilion, but then went straight east and south, and I did not know one town,” Wallace says. “We went through some ancient towns.

Biked around the French countryside. Sometimes we’d stop for an organized lunch and all eat together. Sometimes we’d snack out of the van. There’s always a van along the way.”

Wallace suggests working with a tour group for cycling travel abroad. Everything’s

mapped out, there’s usually support along the way, and you benefit from the local knowledge. Wallace has had good traveling experiences with the aforementioned Your Cycling Italia and Ciclismo Classico. Some tour companies are pricier and focused on luxury travel, such as Back Roads (backroads.com) and Butterfield and Robinson (butterfield.com).

Other fitness travel companies offer better prices but less in the way of luxury. Still others cater to travelers who don’t mind roughing it.

Consider renting a bike when traveling abroad. Why? Wallace knows from experience that there can be multiple connections by plane, train and automobile to reach a destination. Dragging your bike around could be … a drag. If you’d rather have your well-fit bike in tow, Bike Flights specializes in shipping bikes (bikeflights.com), or you can check your bike in with the airlines. Warning: Traveling with your bike could be pricey—to the tune of a few hundred dollars.

Look for a tour, camp or event that offers a group at your fitness level. Wallace is an experienced cyclist, so he often goes with the advanced group. Going with the right level group will prevent you from getting in over your head and being unable to enjoy the journey.

Most important, according to Wallace, is to “have an open attitude. Go with an open mind, and make it fun. You’re seeing a whole new place.”

No Kids This Summer?

Time To Focus On You!

Natural Looking Face Lift Keep everyone guessing with Dr Man’s Natural Looking Face

Skin Rejuvenation Peel The gold standard of skin rejuvenation peels is a non

Lift. Invisible incisions, no hair line distortion, improved jowl

surgical procedure that provides the most dramatic long

lines & pleasant contouring of the face will restore your radiant

lasting results.

appearance and have you looking as young as you feel.

Winner Of The Aesthetic Show 2014

L atest Technolog y

“Best Non Surgical Facial Enhancement Award” he W

n

It

C

om

es

To

Yo u

rF ac e, Bo dy &H ea lt h. Do No t C omp ro mise !

feel good [ wellness travel ]

Reset and Recharge

Julia Shore, a travel consultant at Reid Travel in Boca, presents her favorite destinations for enriching the mind, body and soul.

■ The besT of arizona: The Grand Canyon state offers two domestic treasures: Miraval Resort (miravalresorts.com) and Canyon Ranch (canyon ranch.com), both in Tucson.

These two renowned resorts feature a menu of indoor and outdoor activities, from hiking and horseback riding to yoga and pampering massages.

Both offer the serenity and natural beauty of the Santa Julia Shore

Glacier hiking in Patagonia, Argentina

Catalina Mountains and Sonoran Desert.

The experience at these resorts is not only about fitness but also about learning.

“You can learn … about how to change your way of being,” Shore says. “I find it of such tremendous value to have all that in a place.

It’s not that anybody’s telling you what you should be doing at any given time, but you have a list of things and times, and all you need to do is sign up.”

■ PaTagonia: For a real adventure, Shore sends fitness travelers to Patagonia, at the southern tip of South America, where Argentina and Chile

meet. Shore says her favorite spot is the Explora Lodge (explora.com/hotels-andtravesias/patagonia-chile), nestled in Torres Del Paine National Park. It’s a naturelover’s paradise, Shore says, with guided hikes and horseback rides through mountain terrain and glaciers. If you go, don’t pass up the chance to do ice trekking at the Perito Moreno Glacier.

■ croaTia: Shore says that Losinj, an island in the Northern Adriatic Sea, is a best-kept secret.

“It’s one of those destinations that’s so neglected because

Walking path at Canyon Ranch in Tucson

Reid TRavel of floRida Where: 326 E. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton ContaCt: 561/395-6670 Website: reidtravel.com

54

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

people don’t know about it,” she says. “They’ve made huge progress. Croatia is magnificent. It’s like California many, many years ago—natural and beautiful.”

Historically, Losinj has been known for its healing environment and as a destination for people with respiratory troubles.

Today, the island is all about vitality, offering visitors not only its natural beauty but all types of fitness and wellness options, from hiking and biking to water sports and high-level spas.

■ bhuTan: For the true adventure seeker, this is a bucket-list destination. This tiny Asian country, tucked amid India, Nepal and China, has been called the last Shangri-La. It offers the beauty of the Himalayas and the region’s pervasive spirituality. Shore experienced a seven-day trek in magical Bhutan.

“The only way you can truly discover the soul of Bhutan is on foot,” she says. “I was solo, with my trekking guide. There was a cook. Then there was a server.

Then there were four men and six horses. I never camped, and here I am camping. It was incredible.”

For more information, check out Shore’s popular travel blog: juliastravels.com.

Be beautiful. Be confident. Be you...only better.

Anthony n. DArDAno D.O., F.A.C.S.

not an actual patient

Excellence in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery DOUBLE BOARD CERTIFIED 951 NW 13th Street, Suite 4D • Boca Raton, FL 33486 Phone: (561) 361-0065 • www.drdardano.com Become a fan of Dr. Dardano @DrDardano

0

(expires 8/31/15)

style&design

[ by brad mee ]

going green

Given its standing as a fresh, alwaysin-vogue selection for South Florida homes, green remains a red-hot choice for decorators and homeowners. Part of the color’s allure is its versatility—it can be soothing or rousing depending on the shade. What’s more, no color transitions as seamlessly between interior and exterior. As the following pages prove, there are countless reasons and ways to go green.

bocamag.com follow the leader

Joseph Lapeyra

Designer Toby Zack mimics nature’s palette by planting a kiwi-colored rug and large sectional on a dark wood floor. White walls provide a serene backdrop allowing fresh green, indoors and outdoors, to perform as a stimulating accent color for the striking interior.

|

57

style&design

verdant vibe

GO WITH GLASS

Plant your South Florida decor with green—and watch its style grow.

WORK YOUR WALLS

sCot ZimmermAn

High-style wallpaper is taking center stage when it comes to interior trends, and green is playing a major supporting role. Two of today’s more buzz-worthy decor statements—trellis patterns and green—come together in this ultrachic wallcovering from Thibaut.

Think beyond paint and pillows. Glass, stone and other surface materials also provide opportunities for integrating color into your decor. Here, green-backed glass panels and intricate glass tiles add pops of light, livable green into this modern kitchen.

Paint Palette Courtesy oF thibAut

amazon moss 2037-10 Benjamin Moore

TAKE IT OUTSIDE

guildford green Hc-116

Green naturally layers every garden with countless verdant shades, so it’s an obvious choice for outdoor furnishings and accessories when you want them to complement rather than compete with your landscape. This chartreuse bistro table creates a vivid focal point in a lush garden without contrasting dramatically with its surroundings.

AdAm Finkle

Benjamin Moore

ADD ACCENTS

sCot ZimmermAn

If emerald-colored walls or large lime-hued rugs seem too much for you, consider adding smaller pops of green to a room decorated largely with neutral tones. Here, tufted chairs covered in a jadetoned fabric join stylish accessories to give jolts of green to a room primarily dressed in fresh white.

58

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

electric lime sW-6821 SherwinWilliams

olive no. 13

Farrow & Ball

Kate Spade Wickford Felix Street accent plate and mug, $19 each, Bed Bath & Beyond, Boca Raton

Dualit two-slice toaster, $240, Sur La Table, Mizner Park, Boca Raton

Lacquer jewelry box, Jonathan Adler, $295, jonathanadler.com

color your world Green is flourishing throughout the house as designers embrace verdant hues—from mint and lime to kiwi and palm—with lively results.

Napkins, $5–$9; napkin rings, $6; Williams-Sonoma, Town Center at Boca Raton

Montegrappa Estressione green roller ball pen, approximately $300, montegrappa.com

Fretwork linen pillows, $129, Ethan Allen, Boca Raton Velvet Edlyn chair, $998, Anthropologie, Town Center at Boca Raton

Axis wallpaper by Scion, scion.uk.com, see your designer about availability

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

59

Great Getaways

Looking for a great summer travel package?

Go to bocamag.com for amazing deals from the following fine hotels.

Come see why The Biltmore Hotel in Miami has been at the top of worldwide “Best of the Best� lists since 1926.

Make your next staycation iconic. Immerse yourself in luxury and our endless amenities including a Donald Ross 18 Hole golf course, a world renowned spa, one of the largest hotel swimming pools in the continental U.S. and award winning dining options. Start planning your next Miami vacation today.

Book our Florida Residents Package and enjoy daily breakfast buffet and complimentary valet parking.

Reserve today, online

biltmorehotel.com/boca or call 844-371-0730. *Certain restrictions apply. Subject to availability.

Proof of residency required upon.

THE BEST PLACE TO BE THIS SUMMER...

I S T H E C E N T E R O F O U R AT T E N T I O N FLORIDA RESIDENT RATES FROM $199 * INCLUDES VALET PARKING & WIFI It’s time to unwind, have a little summer fun and focus on the most important people of all you and those around you. Here at our beach chic paradise, you and your loved ones will feel like the most important people on earth. And now, you can enjoy rates exclusively for you.

DAY SPA & BEACH RETREAT PACKAGE $195 * Escape for just the day with valet parking, one of our most popular 50-minute Spa treatments, a leisurely lunch, and relaxing for the day on our full service beach as long as you wish.

*Available select dates now through September 30th. To make your reservation, call 561.582.2800.

2800 South Ocean Boulevard | Palm Beach, Florida 33480 | www.fourseasons.com/palmbeach

GREAT GETAWAYS

FIND YOUR

FLORIDA RESIDENTS SAVE UP TO 20% THIS SUMMER!

BEACH ESCAPE LOCATED BETWEEN DELRAY BEACH AND BOCA RATON

View all our specials at DelraySandsResort.com

:: ALL NEW! Fully renovated hotel :: Spacious guest rooms and suites :: Latitudes oceanfront restaurant with panoramic ocean views :: Pool overlooking the ocean :: Shopping, dining and nightlife nearby

2809 S. Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach, FL :: 855.559.5255:: DelraySandsResort.com

delraysandsresort_brm0715.indd 1

THIS IS WHAT

n

5/22/15 3:06 PM

FEELS LIKE AT THE

J B & SÂ? .

FLA. RESIDENTS SAVE UP TO

30% OFF

RATES THIS SUMMER!*

NORTH PALM BEACH

The best kept secret of the Palm Beaches.

RESERVATIONS:

855.559.5855 | jupiterbeachresort.com

5 NORTH A1A, JUPITER, FLORIDA *Valid FL Resident ID required upon check-in.

C=100 M=0 Y=8 K=65

jupiterbeachresort_brm0715.indd 1

PANTONE 1405 CVC 50%

5/22/15 3:03 PM

S U N D AY B R U N C H I S A M U S T. A STROLL ON THE BEACH IS A PLUS. E V E R Y S U N D AY 1 1 : 3 0 A M - 3 P M Market Table featuring eggs made-to-order, carving station, chilled seafood, sushi, charcuterie, parfaits, traditional breakfast favorites, salads and so much more.

Endless Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar.

For reservations, call 561.533.3740 or visit Open Table.

2800 South Ocean Boulevard | Palm Beach, Florida 33480 | www.fourseasons.com/palmbeach

Great Getaways edgewaterbeachhotel_brm0515.indd 1

5/29/15 9:00 AM

Looking for a great summer traveL package?

Go to bocamag.com for amazing deals from these fine hotels.

HPHorizontal_AD_0715.indd 1

6/1/15 1:44 PM

VISIT US | LOEWSHOTELS.COM | 800.23.LOEWS

EVERYONE NEEDS

to drink it all in.

#TravelForReal pamkelley520 Loews Miami Beach

It’s the ultimate Florida and Georgia resident vacation, complete with chic accommodations, free nights, and perks at exhale Spa, Lure Fishbar, and SOAK Cabanas. Experience exciting local attractions with VIP discounts for the whole family.

Visit our website or call today to view our special promotions.

LOEWS HOTELS & RESORTS ANNAPOLIS

•

ATLANTA

•

BOSTON

LOEWS REGENCY •

CHICAGO

•

CHICAGO O’HARE

•

HOLLYWOOD

•

MIAMI

BEACH

•

MINNEAPOLIS

•

MONTREAL

NASHVILLE • NEW ORLEANS • ORLANDO • PHILADELPHIA • SAN DIEGO • SANTA MONICA • ST. PETE BEACH • TUCSON • WASHINGTON D.C.

NEW YORK SAN FRANCISCO

W H AT

Special Advertorial

YOU?

Photography by Aaron Bristol Content by Rich Pollack

SIDNEY GORDON President, Core Medical Group

AGE R ES ID EN C E WH AT H E D O ES O FF D U T Y

C LAI M T O FA ME

I N D U LG EN C E RIDE WH Y H E C H O SE B MW

WO R D S T O LI V E BY

36

Boca Raton

Gordon runs a medical group that helps patients optimize their health through hormone-replacement therapy, supplements and diet.

Gordon spends as much time as he can with his young daughter but he also finds time to compete in a number of sports, from bicycle racing to high-level Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. “I love to compete. Anything that’s competitive, I just love it. That’s why I love business.”

Since 2012, the business—which operates under the guidance of Dr. Elliot Lach—has grown exponentially and now has close to 5,000 patients. As part of its commitment to the community, Core Medical Group funds a number of local organizations in the Delray Beach and Boca Raton areas. Gordon and his business partner also select three people annually to receive free services for an entire year.

“I love my toys,” he says. “I enjoy things that are fast and offer good performance.”

2013 BMW F10 M5 with Frozen Black matte paint

“Fast cars are about performance, but efficiency and quality are why I’ve owned seven BMWs over the years. I love Vista BMW in Coconut Creek and Pompano Beach for sales and service. I had an issue with one of my cars, and they ended up putting me in a brand-new one. I knew I had a good relationship right then and there.”

“There’s no such thing as a self-made man. You can’t be successful without the help of others around you.” www.coremedicalgrp.com

In Fountain of Youth, Vastola argues that nutrition should be an integral part of standard medical practice— and this focus, he says, makes his clinic stand apart.

“Physicians are not trained that way; they still don’t have nutrition-based courses,” he says. “They may have a nutritionist come in and talk to them about this or that diet, but they’re not talking about nutritional chemistry. My book is based on chemistry and studies.

It’s based on fact—it’s not just, ‘Buy this and you’re going to get better.’

For weight loss, Vastola recommends the Atkins diet; for everyday health, he recommends the Mediterranean diet.

70

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Vastola’s poodles earned plenty of camera time during the filming of “Good Health Hunting.”

eduardo schneider

Food for Thought

facetime [ by john thomason ]

David Vastola

This Palm Beach m.D. wanTs To Bring his sPiriTeD PracTice inTo america’s liVing room.

A

bout a year and a half ago, David Vastola, a specialist in gastroenterology and internal medicine, welcomed a VIP into his Palm Beach Gardens clinic. It was Frank Biden, the younger brother of the vice president, and he’d just returned from Washington, D.C. for business.

It wasn’t a social call. Biden, who lives in Ocean Ridge, had been feeling under the weather, but he didn’t know why. A couple of doctors had examined him in the Capitol Building, and they didn’t find anything.

“I examined him and looked over his blood, and I knew right away what was wrong with him,” Vastola recalls. “I had to do some specialty blood tests, and it turned out to be a rare blood cancer. He’s at a hematologist now, getting chemotherapy. But the [doctors in D.C.] missed it cold. It doesn’t put Washington in a good light.

“I think he’s just [so] grateful that he’ll do anything to help me that he can, because, otherwise, he was a dead man.”

The “help” to which Vastola refers is Biden’s contribution to “Good Health Hunting,” a reality television series based on Vastola’s practice.

In 2014, a film crew from Los Angeles descended on his clinic to film for three days, shooting 30 to 40 hours of Vastola’s life in and out of his lab coat. The resulting 23-minute pilot episode tells Frank Biden’s story, among others, while introducing viewers to the offbeat, occasionally saucy antics of Vastola’s staff.

So far, the pilot has screened at three film festivals in Florida—including the Palm Beach International Film Festival this past spring— and is currently seeking national TV distribution. It boasts many of the hallmarks of reality television, including underdressed women, feuds between employees, and direct-camera interviews reflecting on the events of the episode. But it also offers useful medical information about unorthodox or rarely discussed conditions, such as arsenic poisoning. Vastola pitches the show as “Modern Family” meets “M.A.S.H.” at “The Office.”

“M.A.S.H. was a funny, down-to-earth show about real-life situations, and doctors were saving lives and bucking the system the whole way,” Vastola says. “And they had a certain camaraderie about them.

That’s kind of what this place is like. There’s comedy in medicine. People like a happy place when they’re sick, so we try to entertain them

and make them laugh and get them well at the same time.

“There’s a lot of sentimentality tied to the program,” he adds. “And if you watch some of the storylines, some people are laughing, some are crying and some people say, ‘Oh my God, I’m going through that.’

We’re trying to take a piece of everyone and show how it plays out in the doctor’s office.”

What you won’t get from “Good Health Hunting” is the ersatz glamour of a prime-time medical drama like “Grey’s Anatomy,” whose airbrushed interns can always find time to squeeze in a bedroom romp between patients. “I did a medical residency and worked for years at a hospital; [that show] is nothing like reality,” he says. “It’s just sex in every room in the hospital. In my opinion, they defame the medical profession, and I think it’s pretty disgusting. I went through all that and taught for five years, and none of that goes on.”

Vastola knows of what he speaks: A graduate, second in his medical class, of Chicago’s Midwestern University, the one-time chief of gastroenterology at Buffalo’s Deaconess Hospital has been running his Palm Beach Gardens clinic for 30 years, delivering fullservice care in a family-friendly environment.

His wife, Gail, is his business manager, and their three poodles—Petey, Kate and Patrick—stay at the office with them, except for Wednesdays, when they receive their weekly grooming. (They appear in the “Good Health Hunting” trailer enough times that they almost deserve an above-the-title credit.)

When he’s not seeing patients, Vastola is writing. His first book, Fountain of Youth: Nutritional Therapies, hits retailers July 7 (see sidebar). He has already finished his sophomore book, The Secrets of the Morning Report, a dramatic memoir about his years as a medical resident in a thousand-bed hospital. He believes it’ll be made into a movie one day—but right now, he’s most excited to show the world “Good Health Hunting,” which he hopes will provide its own mental nutrition to the shallow world of reality TV. “I think it’s really a portrayal of the human condition, and how it’s played out with human disease, and how it brings out emotion and pathos and happiness and camaraderie and faith,” he says. “Where can you see a real story about the human condition? You don’t see it on ‘The Kardashians,’ and you certainly don’t see it on ‘Duck Dynasty.’”

“We try to entertain ... and get [patients] well at the same time.”

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

71

facetime [ by marie speed ]

Andrew McKinney GenerAl MAnAGer, Mizner PArK

A

ndrew McKinney is a walking, talking poster boy for Mizner Park. Its general manager for the past two years, McKinney has found himself running one of the jewels in General Growth Properties’ portfolio—a plum assignment, which is worlds away from his previous life at Water Tower Place in Chicago.

“I had the opportunity to come down here, and I jumped at it,” he says. “We certainly have had quite a few houseguests this winter; we had a bed-and-breakfast at home.”

McKinney is no stranger to South Florida; he’s been coming here since his childhood to visit his grandparents in Coral Gables and at their house in Tavernier in the Florida Keys, fishing and swimming and snorkeling—things he’s happily teaching his three daughters now (ages 2, 5 and 6).

“My kids have already forgotten what snow is,” he says. “We’re still like tourists on vacation, exploring everything the county has to offer, from going to nature preserves or to Gumbo Limbo, off to Loggerhead Marinelife Center, all the different beaches along the coast. … We try to enjoy all of it.”

He’s also loving his job. McKinney describes Mizner Park as a “showcase property” that serves as the “central hub for downtown Boca.”

His role is to oversee the composition and

leasing of all the office and retail space, as well as everything from the behind-the-scenes security staff to landscaping and administrative personnel—and anything else “that makes this property go.”

He’s a firm believer in managing by walking around, which he considers one of the joys of his job.

“You have to get out there and walk it to get a feel for it,” he says.

McKinney says his biggest challenge isn’t really his competition as much as “elevating the customer experience” at Mizner Park.

“It’s about making sure this property is a premier shopping destination and creating an exceptional experience for anyone who comes to this property— from visitors to employees— through attention to the physical property [and] bringing the best retailers to the market.”

McKinney, 37, went to school at the University of Illinois in Champaign for a degree in finance. He then “moved to Chicago like everyone in the Midwest does” to start a career in real estate and, later, property management.

He lived in Chicago (where he met his wife) for 13 years before moving to Boca.

Short Takes When he’S noT aT Work: “I don’t have much of a golf game, but I’m trying to improve it—and I’m trying to get into the water as much as possible, whether it’s fishing with family or diving (he just got certified).

GuilTy pleaSure: “I’m a huge college football fan (he likes the University of Alabama).”

BuckeT liST: “To travel more internationally.”

72

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

SaTurday morninG riTual: “Making a big breakfast for the family— usually a variation of pancakes or waffles.” dream joB: “I grew up playing soccer, and I coach my daughters. … I had this thought to maybe own and run a soccer complex.”

BiGGeST SurpriSe aBouT mizner park: “The sense of ownership the community has in this property. Everyone has a Mizner story or a suggestion for me.”

McKinney says a respected business colleague gave him some great advice when he moved here: Get involved.

“He said, ‘Make friends, get out in the community, be an ambassador for the shopping center.’ I tried to take that to heart—I think I’ve created some great partnerships in the city with the other leaders,” he says.

“We’ve had some great collaboration with the amphitheater—the museum staff, board members, neighbors in the area. The challenge is how you make yourself better every single day.”

The additions of Lord & Taylor as an anchor, along with J. McLaughlin, Kendra Scott and the luxury iPic movie theater, are emblematic of the kind of quality McKinney thinks defines Mizner Park.

“We’ve got a forward-thinking, mixed-use urban environment that’s been a model for other centers around the country,” he says, slipping into his ambassador role. “We’ve got a great jewel here.”

Devoted to Healing, Defined by Results

expert Diagnosis Progressive treatment Complete Privacy

Photography by Lemore Zausner

Depression, anxiety Bipolar Disorder eating Disorders, addiction, DBt

Raul J. Rodriguez M.D.

The Delray Center Clinical Team

Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology Diplomate, American Board of Addiction Medicine

Delray Center for Healing 888-958-1059 • DelrayCenter.com 403 S.e. 1st St., Delray Beach, fl 33483

Ready. Set. Shine.

aaron bristol

Silliman recently launched a 30-day e-course—Ready. Set. Shine.—that she hopes will give recent moms the tools to take care of themselves as well as their newborns. Visit jennifersilliman.com for more information.

74

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

facetime [ kevin kaminski ]

Jennifer Silliman A mAternAl mentAl heAlth AdvocAte exploreS the “dArk Side of the full moon.”

W

hen a child-birth class in Jupiter invited Jennifer Silliman to speak last year, the crusader for maternal mental health issues made sure to share her talking points prior to the presentation. But that night, as she started listing various risk factors for postpartum depression—among them, a family history with mental illness, a traumatic pregnancy, stress—the event coordinator “freaked out.”

And Silliman was escorted out of the class.

“I told the woman, ‘What a disservice you’re doing to these women and families,’” Silliman says. “This is the biggest issue. Not one institution owns maternal mental health. OBs. Pediatricians. Child-birth educators. … No one wants to ‘put ideas in Mommy’s head.’

“But the best thing you can do is talk about it. That’s how the healing process begins.”

Fortunately, for the estimated 1.3 million women this year who will suffer crippling postpartum symptoms, Silliman is talking, advocating—and making a difference—on their behalf.

Earlier this year, the 75-minute documentary “Dark Side of the Full Moon,” a project directed by Maureen Fura and co-produced by Silliman, began generating buzz in the maternal mental health community. It’s the first U.S. film that not only explores the debilitating side of postpartum issues but that sheds light on a health-care system that too often drops the ball when it comes to educating expectant and recent mothers.

For Silliman, a Wellington resident with a background in broadcasting and production coordination, the subject is a personal one.

In the final trimester before she and husband William welcomed their now-5-year-old daughter, Allyson, into the world, Silliman began suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. A simple screening exam would have revealed—

given her obsessive-compulsive tendencies and her mother’s bipolar issues—that she was at risk for pre- or postpartum issues.

Instead of opening up, she remained silent.

Meanwhile, her mind started racing.

“I started having [what was later diagnosed as] intrusive thoughts, really more like flashes, about stabbing myself in the stomach—while I was pregnant,” Silliman says. “Because of my OCD, I obsessed over this. It turns out knives are common when it comes to intrusive thoughts. Still, I shared this with no one. I hid it for six months.”

Allyson would arrive six weeks early and spend her first 10 days in a neonatal intensive care unit at a South Florida hospital. None of the professionals with whom Silliman came in con-

“No [doctor] explained that I had so many risk factors.” tact counseled her about the trauma of having a NICU baby, yet another postpartum trigger.

“Right before my 30th birthday—Allyson had just turned three months—I finally broke down,” Silliman says. “I couldn’t put on a happy face. I couldn’t even unload the dishwasher.

I wouldn’t cook anything that required using a knife as a utensil. … Luckily, my husband never caught on to us eating a lot of pasta instead of steak.

“But I was scared to tell him. What if he left me? What if he felt I was capable of hurting our daughter? Instead, he was so incredibly supportive.”

The next morning, at her husband’s urging, Silliman met with a psychiatrist in Coral Springs who put her on a low dose of Risperdal, a drug that, because it’s in the antipsychotic category, comes with potential baggage due to

its use for treatment of conditions like schizophrenia. But for Silliman, it was “a life saver.”

Within three days of first taking it, the intrusive thoughts slowly began to dissipate.

“I think my biggest [source of] anger was no one explaining that I had so many risk factors,” Silliman says. “I was searching for a reason to be having these horrible thoughts—but the reason was that my brain needed some rewiring. And the medication fixed it.”

During follow-up therapy, she recalls a counselor advising her to be careful about sharing the story. But Silliman was thinking just the opposite.

“I was ready to scream this from the mountaintop,” she says. “This can’t be happening to mothers.”

Silliman launched a support group in Wellington, MomsToMoms, to give women a place to share their stories and postpartum issues (she’s since started a virtual version). She began volunteering for Postpartum Support International, later becoming its Southeast regional coordinator. And then she met Fura, who had been itching to film a documentary that touched on the topics about which Silliman was so passionate.

Since its release, “Dark Side of the Full Moon” already has been purchased by the likes of Stanford University as a teaching tool in its medical program.

“Right now, North Carolina has the only inpatient perinatal psych unit in the entire country,” Silliman says. “It has three beds. And it’s constantly filled with moms who come from all over the country.

“So we’re excited that the documentary is infiltrating residency programs. If we can get the next generation of doctors and health-care professionals to recognize this, then maybe it will trickle down. We want those moms sitting in the OB office to feel comfortable enough to verbalize what they’re feeling—and know that they’re going to get help.” bocamag.com follow the leader

|

75

theBOCAinterview [ by kevin kaminski ]

Curtain Call

Gloria EstEfan, already the most successful latin crossover artist in music history, brings the soundtrack of her south florida-based life to the broadway stage.

L

ong before she altered the musical landscape at home and abroad with a sound in perfect rhythm with the multicultural city from which it sprang, Gloria María Milagrosa Fajardo García was just a Miami girl with a story.

She was 2 when her family fled Cuba for South Florida following Castro’s rise to power. Her father, a one-time bodyguard for former Cuban president Batista, would join the CIAbacked paramilitary group that met with disaster at the Bay of Pigs. He later enlisted in the U.S. Army and spent two years in Vietnam. When her father was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis shortly after returning from duty, Gloria became a caretaker for both him and her younger sister while her mother tried to make ends meet.

As much as she loved music—a cathartic “escape,” she would call it—Gloria couldn’t begin to imagine the life that was about to unfold.

That is, until 1975, when the product of an all-girls high school, who had “no social life,” met Emilio Estefan.

Forty years, seven Grammys, one Oscar nomination and a boatload of lifetime achievement awards later, the Miami girl and her remarkable story are headed for Broadway. After a world premiere this summer in Chicago, the new musical based on the life of Gloria Estefan and husband Emilio—“On Your Feet!”—will open Nov. 5 at New York’s Marquis Theatre (previews start Oct. 5).

Estefan, whose work in the 1980s with Miami Sound Machine and later as a solo artist has resulted in sales of some 100 million records worldwide, calls the play a “love story.”

“It’s my love of Emilio (whose résumé as a music producer includes 19 Grammys), my love of this country and my love of music,” she says.

Estefan, 57, took time out of her schedule to elaborate on those sentiments with Boca Raton.

76

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Has tHe process of working on tHe play put you in a reflective place about your life?

This has been a three-year process; that’s when we first started writing. Having to sit and analyze and discuss and remember things we had put out of our memory? … We’ve been so busy living our life that we really haven’t had time to look and reflect. …

Mainly, I go, “Damn, we’ve done a lot.” … But it feels like a split second ago, not [40 years].

How do you go about selecting tHe moments in your life witH emilio tHat will translate to tHe stage and serve tHe music?

Perhaps it’s fortunate that we have over three decades of music to draw upon. Alexander [Dinelaris, recent winner of the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for “Birdman” and author of the work on which the play is based] does use the hits, but he also reaches back and uses some unexpected songs that unexpected characters will be singing. So it really does seem like the songs were written for the story, which is the hardest thing when you’re doing a musical—about a catalog of music. … We had multiple meetings [with Alex] where we just talked; he spoke to Emilio and my mom for countless hours. Then he sent me the first draft—and I was blown away.

His [concern, early on] was that there was no conflict, which you need in a play. But there is.

My mom is the conflict—very much so. And I’ve warned her about it.

DiD You Know?

Ana Villlafañe, who will star as Estefan in the Broadway production of “On Your Feet,” went to the same all-girls high school—Our Lady of Lourdes Academy in Miami—as Gloria.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

77

theBOCAinterview She loves and adores Emilio, but oh my gosh. She gave him such a hard time. I was her rock when I was young. I took care of my dad, and I took care of my little sister. Here comes Emilio, this musician who was taking away her daughter. She was so afraid that I’d quit school and wander around Miami with these musicians—me, this good Cuban girl. So she gave him a lot of grief.

You were 18 when You met emilio, who was working for Bacardi Back in 1975 and plaYing in a Band, miami latin BoYs, on the side. what aBout the opportunitY to join his Band proved so irresistiBle? Actually, I was 17 when I met him that May. I didn’t turn 18 until September.

What was irresistible was the music. It certainly wasn’t about the money; I think I was making $25 a gig.

I did it because I loved music. I remember sitting alone in my room as a youngster, playing guitar. I remember playing music with my cousin; I taught her all these songs in Spanish, and we had nice harmony together.

She actually played with me at the beginning of the Latin Boys.

And, yes, it was exciting. I hadn’t been able to go out during my high school years; I had to take care of my dad, who was very ill. So I had

no social life. When my dad became too sick for us to take care of him at home, and he [was admitted to] the VA hospital, it was the first

By the Numbers 31.5 million: Number of records Estefan has sold in the U.S. out of an estimated 100 million worldwide.

3: Number of songs that reached Billboard’s Top 10 off the 1985 album

“Primitive Love” by Miami Sound Machine, including “Conga” and “Words Get in the Way.”

14: Number of singles that reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart, more than any female performer.

No. 1: “Anything for You,” off the 1987 “Let it Loose” album, was the first single by Estefan and Miami Sound Machine to reach the top of the U.S. Billboard chart.

14 million: Number of albums that 1989’s “Cuts Both Ways,” her debut “solo” album and last involving Miami Sound Machine, sold.

2: Number of titanium rods needed to stabilize her vertebrae after a semitruck crashed into her tour bus in 1990.

2 + 1: Number of children Emilio and Gloria have (son Nayib, daughter Emily), and number of grandchildren (grandson Sasha, born to Nayib and his wife).

78

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

time in my life that I actually had a life.

Playing at these gigs, to me, was like a party.

The rehearsals were mind-blowing. To be able to create music and try different ideas? I couldn’t imagine a better situation.

I wasn’t looking forward to being the center of attention, so I loved the fact that Emilio didn’t just throw me in the front of the band. We were a unit. He was up front with his congas, and there was a bass player who sang a lot of songs.

Soon, Emilio asked me to start writing music.

He wanted to do an original album for a small local label. I’d done a lot of poetry, but I’d never written lyrics. Yet it came very easily.

was there a moment when You fell in love with emilio or was it a gradual process?

I really don’t believe in love at first sight.

There’s lust at first sight, but at that point I had zero experience. So it wasn’t that.

I met Emilio because there was this guy at my brother’s school who played guitar with me at mass; I was at an all-girls high school, Our Lady of Lourdes Academy. The guy wanted me to sing in this band; it was a one-night gig for some parent-encounter group. The guy’s father worked at Bacardi, and he knew someone who had a band, Latin Boys. He asked him to come talk to his son and me and give us some pointers. It was Emilio.

He shows up that day—I’ll never forget—

wearing these shorts that his mother had made for him. The material looked like something you’d use for a couch. Those shorts were thick. … But Emilio has amazing legs.

And beautiful hands. I have a thing about hands, and when Emilio started playing the accordion I was just mesmerized. He looked so mature, even though he was only four years older than me. He’d been working since age 15. He took care of his parents; he was the breadwinner. But he also went to school at night. There was just something about him.

Two months later, I ran into him at a wedding that I didn’t want to go to. He was there playing with his band. … Emilio is such a flirt. Not in a sexual way, but it’s just his personality. He flirts with everyone. … There was an attraction, but he had a girlfriend. She was 36, and he was 22 at the time. …

So now I’m in the band. It’s July 4, 1976.

We’re playing on a ship for the bicentennial, and he asked me to go up on the third floor and get some air with him. He told me it was his birthday, and he asked me if I’d give him a kiss on the cheek [Emilio’s birthday is actually March 4]. I refused. He said, c’mon! So I did— and he turned his face. That was pretty much it right there.

He asked me out that night, but I didn’t go with him. It was very late—and I didn’t know what to make of all this. But it had been building up for that whole year I was in the band. He had broken up with the older girlfriend. I think, in his mind, he wasn’t going

“Emilio has beautiful hands. I have a thing about hands, and when Emilio started playing the accordion [the first day they met], I was just mesmerized. ... There was just something about him.” to be able to avoid the situation with me. So he went for it.

I remember on the way to that gig, he had asked me to sit next to him in the van because we were driving through a rough neighborhood.

Out of nowhere, he goes, “I bet that we would get along great if we got married.” I said, “What the hell?” He laughed it off. No mention of that was made again until two years later, when he really did ask me to marry him.

It’s not easy to maIntaIn a hIgh-profIle marrIage. Why have you tWo endured?

It’s almost four decades. We’re going to be married 37 years, and we were together two years before that.

Honestly, I didn’t think I’d get married at all, or at least not until well into my 30s. I had plans. I was going to study psychology—which I did at the University of Miami, psychology and communications, with a French minor. I graduated in three years. At that point, I realized that I didn’t want to go on to clinical psychology; I wanted to study diplomacy and international law. I had been accepted to the College of Sorbonne in France and wanted to study there.

Emilio and Gloria Estefan at Costa d’Este, the Vero Beach-based resort owned by the couple

When the time came, I was already in the band. I didn’t want to leave my mom alone— my father was still very ill. We used to go to the VA hospital every day to help the nurses.

And, ultimately, I had fallen in love.

Emilio and I are very different, but we balance each other well. … He was my manager, my producer; we were together all the time. What breaks people apart is when they grow in different directions. But we support one another’s ventures.

He actually has knocked me out of the number one slot with a song by another one of his artists. But I’m proud of what he does.

And, in a way, it’s taken pressure off of me.

In the beginning, it was all about me. But Emilio is a hardworking man, and he’s an entrepreneur. If I wanted to stop working and have kids, he had a million things going on.

We’ve been there for each other every step of the way.

the band exploded at a tIme When the cIty also Was In the cultural spotlIght thanks to the lIkes of “mIamI vIce.” can you talk about your connectIon to mIamI and hoW that has affected your career?

I came here when I was 2, and even though I was an army brat and traveled, Miami has always been my homeland.

I actually learned English in first grade while we were stationed in San Antonio. It was the first time they had segregated the schools. I was the only Hispanic in class, and my teacher, Mrs. Collins, was the first African-American to work in the school. I think she realized my loneliness and the fact that other kids called me stupid because I didn’t speak English. She was so supportive. I still talk to Mrs. Collins; she went on to become principal.

But it was always about coming back to Miami. My grandma was here, and when my dad went to Vietnam when I was 10, we moved back for good.

I think Miami is the reason our music is the way it is. There was nothing false about it; we had this vocabulary for doing the Latin music, and then I could do the pop stuff really continued on page 190 bocamag.com follow the leader

|

79

in boca news Bill Citara: Dining Reviews

Bill breaks down the tri-county restaurant scene—from new reviews and dining news to kitchen gossip—every Monday, Tuesday and Friday.

Randy Schultz: City, County & State News

As the City Watch blogger, Randy keeps tabs on issues important to residents of Boca and beyond.

John Thomason: Arts & Entertainment

John takes readers inside the arts with concert, exhibition and movie reviews, cultural news and special profiles every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Alina Z.: The Green Goddess

Follow Alina every other Wednesday as she offers readers tips and insights regarding health-conscious eating habits.

The best resource for daily Boca news!

bocamag.com BocaRatonMagazine

/bocamag

/bocamag

@bocamag

@bocamag

@bocamag

Best of

Boca

& Beyond 2015

Story by Kevin Kaminski, Marie Speed and John Thomason

F

or a community whose residents make up less than .005 percent of Florida’s overall population, Boca sure makes its share of news. Over the past 12 months, we went bowling for the first time; we hosted stars of stage, screen and stilettos; one of our college presidents went all Obi-Wan Kenobi on his students; and our downtown began undergoing the kind of face-lift that turns heads (sometimes for the wrong reasons). Join the editorial team at Boca Raton in looking back at a year in the life of Boca and beyond.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

81

Best of

Eat & Drink

Best New Restaurant

The oh-so-French La Nouvelle Maison may not be for the faint of pocketbook, but the Boca-based spot opened by Arturo Gismondi of La Trattoria fame is as elegant as it is excellent.

The twice-cooked duckling? Yes, please. And don’t turn your nose up at the classic ratatouille.

Best New Connected Restaurant Joseph “Skinny Joey” Merlino, the reputed Philly mob boss who spent a few months in a Miamibased federal halfway house earlier this year for a parole violation, is the maître d’ at Merlino’s, a new Italian hot spot in downtown Boca that makes a veal parmiagana you can’t refuse. In addition to

some of city’s most inventive specialty cocktails, the restaurant’s menu features recipes from Merlino’s mother. According to an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer’s philly.com, when asked for the crab gravy recipe, Merlino said, “I went to jail for not telling. I’m not giving up a recipe.”

sausage—but no butter.

And praise the lord.

S’mores cocktail at Merlino’s

New Food Trend(s) We’re Digging We cannot get enough meatballs. Small ones, medium ones, ones that are their own perfect entrée. A strong runner-up is the roasted cauliflower trend; cauliflower is the new Brussels sprout, and when you roast it or grill it, we can’t help but eat all our veggies. Worth noting: bone broth, hog snapper and deviled eggs.

Favorite GoTo Hangout

Max’s Grille never gets old. Consistent, cozy, and with a battery of time-honored signature dishes people continue to clamor for: seared ahi tuna, wings, pasta radiatore, meat loaf—and on and on. Bowl to bowl, the number of Cobb salads served here would make it to Seattle and back.

Best “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” Spot

Meatballs from Farmer’s Table

The Wishing Well is a decidedly un-Boca Irish pub that is a welcome respite from trendy chains and clubs. This is your go-to place for fish and chips, and Guinness and soccer games.

Belly up.

Lobster salad from La Nouvelle Maison

Best Sunday Brunch

Farmer’s Table may not use butter (really? And they admit this?), but its Sunday brunch is anything but politically correct. Try the Farmer’s Table Palooza— blueberry multigrain pancakes, scrambled cage-free eggs, home fries, heritage bacon, griddled chicken

82

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Food Trend(s) We’re Over 1. Kale 2. Waiters telling us in

excruciating detail where every menu item is from.

We. Don’t. Care.

3. Barbecue wings 4. Quinoa

Best Happy Hour

Ka-pow! Noodle Bar’s happy hour puts a smile on faces Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. And with small plates like wok-charred edamame, shishitou peppers and Laughing Bird

Shrimp Tempura, you may never want to order wings again. On the chic side, Truluck’s at Mizner Park rocks discounted premium wines by the glass, specialty cocktails and a gourmet bar bites menu (we’re talking oysters Rockefeller, tuna nachos and more) from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

George Patti, co-owner at MEAT

Best Burger Kapow! Noodle Bar

The Discerning Shopping List It may require a bit of a drive, but it’s worth it to grab these special foodie finds.

Best place for Buying individual portions of fish: City Fish Market in Boca Best place for Buying those 4- to 10-pound pork, Beef or lamB cuts: Western Beef in west Boca Best place for all-things-poultry: Delaware Chicken Farm in Davie Best hard-to-find vegetaBles during their seasons: Boys Farmers Market in Delray, but only if you can survive the parking lot chaos Best local vegetaBles during our season: Any CSA delivery (and save yourself from that Boys parking lot) Best packaged fresh vegetaBles for the single person: Howard’s Market Best finds at trader Joe’s in Boca: ❉ For those wanting to be healthy: Cruciferous Crunch Collection veggies ❉ For those wanting a lower calorie version: Reduced Guilt Guacamole ❉ To make everything taste better: Créme Fraîche ❉ For those who just don’t care: Speculoos Cookie Butter

The Juicy Lucy from MEAT Eatery & Taproom in the Cendyn building should have its own fan club. Local foodie Liz Balmeseda tells us that the burger has a “melty core of pimento cheese” and is served with a side of French fries cooked in duck fat. The burger was invented by MEAT co-owner George Patti (perfectly named) and was named best burger in Florida by the digital media powerhouse Thrillist.

Best Italian— With All the Frills

Arturo’s Ristorante, a longtime Boca favorite, manages to live up to its fine dining standards, year in and year out.

Along with its legendary wine cellar, we love the Garden Room, the piano tinkling in the background, and waiters making a quiet fuss over us as we linger over the Torta Primavera cart. Sigh.

Arturo’s Ristorante

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

83

Best of

Eat & Drink

Favorite People-Watching Venue Mizner Park just never gets old. Plant yourself on the bench by the valet stand for a parade of Lamborghini studs (well, they wish), trout pouts, Long Island snowbirds and more colorful characters of the South Florida variety.

Menu Item That Needs to be Retired Pork belly

Biggest Dining Gripe We can’t seem to get a table between November and May in Boca.

Best-Kept Secrets

Tom Sawyer on Second Avenue has a breakfast skillet we long for—including two eggs any way, home fries and a biscuit—not to mention nightly home-cooked specials. The Tin Muffin on Palmetto is the polar

opposite: a ladies-wholunch café, with a chicken salad (of course) that is legendary.

Restaurant Mecca When it comes to onestop shopping in the dining world, nothing beats Royal Palm Place. The destination-within-adowntown offers everything from international fare (Biergarten, Lemongrass, Casimir French Bistro) and breakfast joints (Saquella Café, Another Broken Egg) to farm-totable (Farmhouse Kitchen) and upscale seafood spots (Chops Lobster Bar)—plus a place to snag frozen yogurt (FroYo Frenzy) … and much more.

Best Farm-toTable Brand Farmer’s Table at the Wyndham in Boca, founded by local real estate developer (and cool guy) Mitchell Robbins and chef/restaurateur Joey Giannuzzi,

has knocked it out of the park over the past year, packing people in for lunch and dinner, and opening a new private function space. The duo has advanced that whole wellness and pure living brand (also touted as “creating community”) through an in-house yoga studio and the Trend Tea Lounge. But it’s the menu that keeps the faithful coming back: whole foods with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, grass-fed beef, free-range chicken and sustainable seafood. The restaurant also adheres to the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” clean food philosophy.

Now, if they’d only ease up a little bit on that butter thing.

Around the World … in Boca Experience cuisine from all over the planet right in our own backyard.

Cuban: Cuban Café FrEnCh: Casimir Bistro, La Nouvelle Maison, Le Rivage GrEEk: Taverna Kyma IndIan: Sapphire ItalIan: Arturo’s, Trattoria Romana, Villagio JapanEsE: Ninja Spinning Sushi Bar lEbanEsE: Aladdin’s Eatery MExICan: Las Fajitas, Uncle Julio’s VIEtnaMEsE: La Tre

Best Business Breakfast The suits are all meeting at First Watch these days. The early bird gets the stock tip.

5 Foodie Finds Guaranteed to Produce a Pavlovian Response

1. PB&J doughnut

at Rhino Doughnuts in Boca

84

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

2.

Filet mignon with crab and béarnaise at Boca Landing

3.

Crab cakes at True in Boca

4.

St. Louis-cut ribs at Smoke in Delray

5. Marco Prime sea bass at DaVinci’s of Boca

he t n f i ght e h C otli Sp Chad Ford

LA Ferme, BocA rAton

W

Watermelon arugula salad from Offerdahl’s

Best Kids Menu

The Yardhouse offers the top food picks in the kids’ universe, from fish sticks and spaghetti to grilled cheese and hot dogs. And that’s just the short list.

Best FastCasual Food

Offerdahl’s rocks— especially the lemon quinoa entrée. And it all began when then-Miami Dolphins linebacker John Offerdahl and wife Lynn started a small bagel shop in Weston in 1990. Five years later, his chain had grown to 10 stores. You can still get a bagel at Offerdahl’s, but the new fast casual version—Offerdahl’s Café Grill—is our go-to for healthy, satisfying food, long on flavor and short on empty calories. No preservatives, stuff like brown rice and quinoa, fresh herbs and spices. Who knew being good could taste so good?

hen Bistro Gastronomie shuttered in 2014 in its star-crossed strip-mall location in west Boca, it didn’t take long for veteran restaurateurs Bobby, Laura and Alexandra Shapiro—owners of chic spots in Manhattan, Baltimore and Prince Edward Island—to swoop to the rescue of this underserved region. The result is La Ferme (see review page 146), which purveys classic French cuisine with a few globetrotting surprises, in a white-tablecloth setting colored by spectacular chandeliers and a bit of quirk: Note the yellow animals that appear on its vibrant storefront signage.

Chad Ford, a chef with roots in Delray (he cooked at Vic & Angelo’s Enoteca from 2004-2010), mans the kitchen at La Ferme, fresh off a hectic three years dishing to tourists in Caribbean hot spots. His ability to respect the traditions of French cooking while integrating seasonal flavors from Italy, the U.S. and Asia has drawn raves from critics, one of whom concluded his review with “there’s not a bad seat in the house or a bad dish on the menu.”

You’ve worked at or consulted for so many different restaurants in this country and abroad. What’s different and exciting about La Ferme?

It’s real exciting to be back in South Florida, where I started my culinary journey. I have been in major tourist destinations over the past eight years where your customer base changes weekly; it’s nice to put down roots where you have the opportunity to build personal relationships with your customer base. I am thankful for the opportunity to be back home working with people I really respect.

Do the Shapiros give you any direction as to the content of the menu, or do they more or less let you play?

The Shapiros are great to work for. They are involved in the creative processs, [but] they give me the freedom to be the chef. Every dish is tasted and worked

on by all of us before it hits the table. Sometimes it’s like passing a bill through Congress, but we all really try to make sure everything is perfect before we serve it. We have a culinary board, so to speak—usually the guy who signs the checks has the last word.

La Ferme is ostensibly a French restaurant, but you’ve married different cultures in the menu. Is it becoming less important for restaurants to stick to one genre?

I think it is more important to listen to the guests than stick to one genre. If the ingredients are not necessarily French, we like to keep things interesting and moving forward.

Is the location of the restaurant, being so apart from the major dining centers in Boca, a hindrance or a benefit?

It’s definitely a challenge in the summer, but it’s an amazing space and we are thankful for the opportunity to bring great food to the west Boca community.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

85

Best of

Business & Politics Mary Sol Gonzalez

candidate) produced documents detailing shoddy sales practices and other irregularities, including legal misconduct, in past jobs. Chapman bit the dust as did Sauer, and the new kid— Jeremy Rogers—won the council seat.

cancer centers—moved its national headquarters from Illinois to Broken Sound Parkway. It’s been reported that CTCA, which estimates it will treat some 7,000 new patients in 2015, will ultimately employ 250 additional staffers in Boca.

Best Runway Without Fashion Models

Biggest Loss of the Year

If you haven’t heard much about FAU’s Tech Runway, don’t worry.

You will. The public-private partnership created by the Adams Center for Entrepreneurship (with the support of FAU’s Research Park and all 10 of its colleges) offers startups that apply and are accepted all the tools and mentoring necessary for a successful launch— not to mention a $25,000 initial funding grant. Two concepts featured in Boca Raton last year—Design Comfort Shoes and BedaBox—are Tech Runway companies; remember you read it here first when both hit it big.

MVP Honors

Mary Sol Gonzalez started an international group at the Chamber, got involved in Florence Fuller, the Young Entrepreneurs Academy and the Junior League and won the Chamber’s Diamond Award—and that’s all before breakfast.

Name Change The Arvida Park of Commerce gets a new lease on life as The Park At Broken Sound. Stay tuned.

86

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Sign That Nasty Politics Can Bite You in the Butt

Frank Chapman sent out mailers last year trashing the business record of Boca resident Armand Grossman, who had filed papers to run for a Boca city council seat. Grossman subsequently dropped out of the race and Chapman ran—but his own past caught up with him as Jamie Sauer (another

Hot-Button Issue The location of an orthodox Chabad in Boca’s seaside entertainment district caused a ruckus—but everyone tiptoed around it so they didn’t get labeled as antiSemitic.

Biggest Gain of the Year

Cancer Treatment Centers of America— with its national network of treatment facilities and

The bad news: The Staples-Office Depot Jan Bednar, BedaBox

Ilene Greenberg, Design Comfort Shoes

t

igh l t o

Sp DAnIeL CAne

President and CeO, MOdernizing MediCine

I merger, expected to close at the end of 2015, will cost our city more than $260 million over three years, according to the South Florida Business Journal, if, as expected, the company moves its headquarters from Boca to Framingham, Mass. The good news: Amateur golfers playing the par-4 second hole at the Old Course at Broken Sound no longer have to feel guilty about hooking their tee shot through one of the corporate building’s windows.

3 Local Issues Guaranteed to Start a Dinner Argument

1. Downtown development: How much is too much?

2. The fate of the Wildflower site (Houston’s vs. a park) 3. All Aboard Florida

We Can’t Wait Until It’s Finished Let’s all say it together: The I-95 exchange at Spanish River Boulevard.

f the Boca Raton business community has a bona fide rock star, it’s Daniel Cane. The Lake Worth native and Cornell graduate is a charismatic entrepreneur with a Midas touch for launching companies that effect positive change—and make a lot of money doing it.

In 2010, he co-founded Modernizing Medicine, an iPad-based health care IT company that has revolutionized the ease and accessibility of online medical records.

Modernizing Medicine continues to grow—in revenue, staff and reputation—and in the past year, Cane’s stature in the community has evolved with it. In 2015, he was elected vice chair of Florida Atlantic University’s Board of Trustees, and this past April the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce honored him as its Technology Entrepreneur of the Year.

The announcement came on the heels of IBM’s decision, in March, to invest $20 million in Modernizing Medicine as a platform for its Watson artificial intelligence program. Considering IBM’s rich history in our region, it’s a sign, perhaps, that one generation of Boca-based tech innovation is passing its torch to the next.

With the news of this iBM investment, what does this partnership mean for the future of Modernizing Medicine?

IBM has really pushed the envelope in an area of artificial intelligence called cognitive computing. To Modernizing Medicine, that represents a new era in what computing can do to assist people in general.

We saw it demonstrated in its ability to win “Jeopardy!,” but far beyond playing games, the potential in cognitive computing is to understand a tremendous breadth of information and distill it down into answers instantaneously. This is a computer that can understand a huge body of information, say the last 150 years of published medical literature, and turn that into wisdom, so that you can have a conversation with it.

What are the next headlines we can expect to see from Modernizing Medicine?

We’ll be continuing to create jobs. And we announced an acquisition at the beginning of the year that is bearing fruit now, which brought us away from pure product and technology into the services realm as well.

You’ve had such great success in reforming medicine. do you feel pressured to move on to the next next Big thing?

No, I think we’ve bit off a pretty sizable obstacle with health care. I always feel compelled to improve the world as I see it. There are an awful lot of ways to make money in this world, but I choose the ones where we’re able to do well by doing good. And that’s one of the reasons I get out of bed and then drive as fast as I can to the office, because I’m excited to be here. We view this as an important calling— to fix health care, to make doctors more efficient.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

87

Best of

Business & Politics

Why Addison Mizner Is Spinning in His Grave

The Mark, part of the recent wave of development in downtown Boca, wins our inaugural Federal Penitentiary Award for outstanding institutional design.

Most Venomous Attack of a Renowned Architect

In the days after Daniel Libeskind unveiled his plans for Mizner on the Green, the condo project

by Elad National Properties, reader feedback at bocamag.com regarding the world-renowned architect’s proposed towers bordered on hysterical. A record number of readers commented, invoking terms like “glitzy schlock,” “shallow and superficial oeuvre,” and “space junk” to describe Libeskind’s designs.

“There are two things no community needs,” one reader wrote. “One is the Ebola virus. The other is a Libeskind building.”

ent tenant mix and shop frontage along Military Trail to an “Aventura-like” overall vibe (whatever that means). Our suggestion: Lose that pedestrian-unfriendly fountain courtyard that cost Boca Center its ability to host major community events.

Milestones

❉ Bob Levinson retires from Lynn University after 25 years.

The proposed Mizner on the Green

❉ Jan Savarick, fundraiser extraordinaire, announces she is leaving the Boca Raton Hospital Foundation after 13 years.

What’s Wrong with Boca?

Rendering of the Colonnade at Sawgrass Mills

We do not have a fun downtown. Period.

Most Intriguing Face-Lift The re-acquisition of Boca Center by Crocker Partners (it was originally developed by Tom Crocker in the mid-1980s) is expected to result in wholesale alterations for the mixed-use project.

Sources tell us to expect everything from a differ-

88

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

❉ Joe Gillie retires from Old School Square in Delray Beach after 25 years.

Bigger is Better

The Colonnade at Sawgrass Mills, the sprawling outlet venue’s designer wing, already features an array of top-shelf designers: Burberry, Prada and Versace to name a few. But that wasn’t enough to satisfy the demand of shoppers and retailers alike. Last fall, the shopping center an-

nounced plans to expand The Colonnade by 80,000 square feet, adding 30 additional stores including Ted Baker, Alexis Bittar, La Perla and Vince. The expansion is scheduled to open in early 2016.

New StandAlone Retail of Note

❉ Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH: The outlet that opened earlier this year at Somerset Shoppes offers style-savvy Boca shoppers designer pieces at not-so-designer prices.

The store features nearly 1,000 brands, including favorites like Coach, Jimmy Choo, Diane Von Furstenberg and Marc by Marc Jacobs. ❉ BCBG on Atlantic Avenue: With Delray’s Fabulous Fashion Week making its second debut this year, it’s no surprise that recognizable names like BCBG are setting up shop on Atlantic Avenue.

But with Urban Outfitters also opening in downtown Delray, it begs the question: Is the Ave losing

the independent, locally driven vibe that makes it so unique?

Saks Shoots for the Stars When it comes to bringing A-list designers to town, no store can hold a decorative candle to Saks Fifth Avenue at Town Center. After hosting the likes of Stella McCartney and Roberto Cavalli in recent years, Saks rolled out

New to towN CeNteR

its perfectly Our venerable mall added to its roster over the past year with pressed red the following additions: carpet for Tamara Mellon ❉ Kate Spade for a VIP-only event that in❉ Versace cluded a runway showing ❉ Hermès boutique at Saks of the Jimmy ❉ Les Bijoux Choo cofounder’s epony❉ Athleta mous clothing and accessories line. In addition, Saks welcomed Alice + Olivia founder Stacey Bendet and her hip designs to the Woman Volunteer of the Year luncheon. And, just recently, Saks and the Boca Raton Museum of Art collaborated on an Tamara Mellon (bottom) staged a event with red-hot British runway show at Saks with pieces from her recent collection. shoe designer Sophia Webster. We can’t wait to see who’s coming to town this year.

Heather Shaw, general manager at Town Center’s Saks Fifth Avenue, with Stacey Bendet

|

89

Best of

the arts

Event We Loved

Last year’s Festival of the Arts Boca was good, but something was missing. This year, the festival’s organizers found it: the electrifying combination of a classic movie and a live symphonic score, which yielded such memorable results for the festival in 2012 and 2013. The 2015 entry, the splashy Sondheim/Bernstein musical “West Side Story,” proved more ambitious and exciting than the festival’s previous, statelier choices, “The Wizard of Oz” and “Casablanca.”

After just three rehearsals, consummate conductor Jayce Ogren led the Festival Orchestra through the wily and dynamic Bernstein score in a kind of aural 3-D experience that introduced young audiences to the classic film

and caused old-timers to view it anew.

Event In Flux

The Boca Bacchanal’s Grand Tasting event, a beloved foodie bonanza held for years at Mizner Park Amphitheater, relocated to an airport hangar inside Atlantic Aviation. Though the sold-out event raised significant dollars for the Boca Raton Historical Society & Museum, reviews were mixed. Some attendees welcomed the change to a new venue.

Others Marilyn Maye complained about the atmosphere being too loud. And many felt that the crush of the estimated 1,500 guests

limited their mobility— and enjoyment. To be fair, a torrential downpour created tributaries where walking paths should have been, but, still, it will be interesting to see if and how the Bacchanal responds in 2016.

Best Celebrity Resurrection In her debut Jazz at Lincoln Center series at Lynn University, Jan McArt welcomed cabaret stars that, with gusto, humor and storytelling panache,

From the Boca museum’s Izhar Patkin exhibit, “The Wandering Veil”

channeled the bygone standards of the crooner era. Some of them probably remember a time when cabarets were the only thing to do at night, with 71-year-old Carol Woods, 76-year-old Tommy Tune and 87-year-old (!) Marilyn Maye providing Stone Age sing-alongs for audiences that can say, quite accurately, “They don’t make ’em like that anymore.”

Second-best Celebrity Resurrection

Lee Roy Reams in “La Cage Aux Folles”

90

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

The Wick Theatre made the kind of national headlines that normally evade regional theaters when it hired Leslie Uggams, now 71, to play the first AfricanAmerican Mame in its production of the Jerry Herman musical comedy. Marilynn Wick and company followed this up with “La Cage Aux Folles,” starring the irrepressible, 72-year-old Lee Roy Reams as the drag star Albin, a role he performed 30 years earlier on Broadway. These productions filled a lot of seats because of their star power, but both could

have benefited from spryer casting. In fact, the Wick’s most winning productions of the year— “Oklahoma!,” “The Man of La Mancha,” “Swing”—were cast mostly with local talent, which makes you wonder: Are marquee names worth the expense?

Best Arts News

When Irvin Lippman, former director of the Museum of Art | Fort Lauderdale, took over the reins of the Boca Raton Museum of Art this time last year, we expected to see a return to more studious exhibitions befitting a studious director. We received just that through exhibits such as “Theresa Bernstein: A Century in Art,” which viewed 100 years of art history through a painter who documented all of them; and “Surrealism and Magic,” which explored how occultism and magic inspired the early surrealists of the 20th century. What we didn’t expect were the risky, ambitious, largescale show-stoppers

we’re used to seeing at MoMa and Tate Modern, but not at Boca’s museum: Think the jaw-dropping, muralsized fabric paintings of Izhar Patkin’s “The Wandering Veil,” and “Five Videos,” which offered a handful of hypnotic dispatches from the frontier of video art, many of them projected onto entire walls.

Under the leadership of this longtime veteran, the museum hasn’t felt this hip in years.

BeST ConCerTS ❉ Coral Skies Festival at Coral Sky Amphitheatre ❉ Elvis Costello at Broward Center for the Performing Arts

Best “Tonight Show” Connection

❉ Belle & Sebastian at Fillmore Miami Beach ❉ The Fab Faux at Parker Playhouse

He may be banished from the late-night scene, but Jay Leno still carries some star watt-

❉ Wilco at SunFest

Jay Leno

The Fab Faux (top) and Elvis Costello

age—as evidenced by his appearance at Boca West Community Charitable Foundation’s “Concert for the Children,” which raised a whopping $1.3 million for 19 different local children’s charities.

Since its launch in November 2010, the foundation has collected more than $3.2 million for programs at the likes of Florence Fuller, Boys & Girls Club of Boca, Caridad Center and American Association of Caregiving Youth.

Best Jedi Mind Trick Lynn University cemented itself as the eccentric, devil-may-care sister to the more mainstream FAU last October, when president Kevin Ross brought the Force with him to his commencement speech.

Flanked by weapon-wielding Stormtroopers and clad in a Jedi robe, Ross approached the podium to the iconic “Star Wars” theme, as the standingroom-only audience at the Wold Center erupted in

laughter. He ended by—oh yes—baring a lightsaber.

The state-of-the-university speech in between included news of Lynn’s 2020 strategic plan, the ground breaking of a new stadium and energy plant, and recent awards and accolades from U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review. But the presentation’s main takeaway was aspirational: If Mark Hamill’s hip gives out while filming the new “Star Wars” sagas, J.J. Abrams knows who to call.

Kevin Ross battles the dark side at Lynn. bocamag.com follow the leader

|

91

Best of

the arts

clockwise from left: Scenes from “Buried Child,” “Murder Ballad” and “Les Miserables”

Best Theatrical Productions ❉ “Murder Ballad” at Actors’ Playhouse ❉ “Les Miserables” at Maltz Jupiter Theatre ❉ “Mothers and Sons” at GableStage ❉ “Glengarry Glen Ross” at Maltz Jupiter Theatre ❉ “Buried Child” at Palm Beach Dramaworks

Best Art Exhibitions ❉ “Klara Kristalova: Turning to

Stone” at Norton Museum

❉ “Izhar Patkin: The Wander-

ing Veil” at Boca Raton Museum of Art

❉ “Graphic Advocacy” at

FAU’s Ritter Gallery

❉ “Imaging Eden” at

Norton Museum

❉ “Language Art” at Delray

Beach Center for the Arts

92

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Left: From the “Klara Kristalova” exhibit at the Norton Right: From “Graphic Advocacy” at the Ritter

ht

ig Spotl

Worst Arts News A couple of years ago, Boca was bursting with live theater. Nowadays?

Not so much. Our city lost no fewer than four companies over the past year. Parade Productions, which had been staging largely Jewish-themed work at Mizner Park Cultural Arts Center, folded, along with the Women’s Theatre Project, a longtime Fort Lauderdale company that couldn’t survive its relocation to the Willow Theatre. Two other acclaimed purveyors of edgy theater—West Boca’s Slow Burn and Mizner Park’s Outre Theatre Company—both abandoned Palm Beach County for the apparently friendlier climes of Broward Center for the Performing Arts. We hope you can forgive them and follow them southward; the last thing we need is more companies filing for the dreaded Chapter 13.

Best A&E Makeover Even though it always played superior movies than its sister theaters, the Regal Shadowood 16 has been, in other ways, the runt of the Regal litter. Until now. This hometown multiplex has finally upgraded to Regal King Size Recliners, assigned seating and improved Digital Cinema Projection technology, finally putting it in a similar league as iPic and the redesigned AMC Coral Ridge 10 in Fort Lauderdale. And it still maintains its old advantage over those theaters: It shows better films.

HopE AlsWANg

NortoN MuseuM of Art

B

y this time next year, the Norton Museum of Art will be well into the construction phase of a $60 million expansion. Londonbased firm Foster + Partners is tasked with overhauling the 1941-vintage Norton, bringing it firmly into 21st-century South Florida. For the first time in decades, the museum’s main entrance will be positioned centrally, and visibly, off Dixie Highway, and outside, a row of hedges will flank a reflecting pool, whose tasteful fountains will be diffused onto a sleek roof made of stainless steel.

Inside, the entrance will lead into a Grand Hall, a social gathering place that could double as a room for entertaining. The current café, gift shop and auditorium spaces will be demolished in favor of splashier replacements, like a state-of-the-art 196-seat auditorium and a larger restaurant with outdoor dining. The sculpture garden will expand, and the forthcoming education center will increase by 200 percent.

Hope Alswang, the Norton’s director since 2010, has overseen the expansion every step of the way.

By the time of its slated completion year of 2018, the “New Norton” will cap a run of reinvention and reengagement that continues to define Alswang’s tenure at the top—from launching new annual events to expanding Art After Dark into a weekly gathering of some 300 visitors every Thursday evening.

What prompted the desire to expand the Norton?

When the board hired me, they said that they felt the museum needed greater presence. We needed to be more public, we needed to be more welcoming. So we started talking, and we did a strategic plan. Out of that plan came the idea that we needed to reconsider the building and do a master plan. We only looked at Foster + Partners, because several board members had worked with him, and they were very impressed by his work.

What will this expansion allow the Norton to do that it can’t do now?

We’ll have 12,000 additional square feet of gallery space. These are real galleries, not public assembly places or restaurants. This is just additional space

for the showing of art. That’s huge, a 33-percent increase in gallery space. That is very important to us, because the story of art doesn’t stop, and we continue to collect.

What has been the most positive change you’ve engineered as director?

We’ve upped our game in our curatorial work, so that our curators are now producing shows of international importance. When I got here, a lot of our shows were rented. This is a huge change. In any given year, we’ll have two or three rented shows, but we’ll also have three or four shows created by our curators. That is where the institution is stepping up and engaging in the national conversation about what’s important in art.

On the public side, I think we are really visitorfriendly. We take seriously our responsibility to serve the public in a variety of ways and make this a comfortable place. I think even in the current building, you see that in the way we reconfigured the lobby: It has club chairs, and there’s a coffee bar. It was a big, empty space when I got here. We try very hard to let people know that this is their museum.

Do you have a favorite Norton exhibition over the past year?

No, because I love all my children equally. But I have one event I think was incredible. We did the Chinese New Year for the first time. We had 2,300 people.

We stayed open until 8 o’clock, and we ended with fantastic fireworks. We had a broad number of interesting activities revolved around Chinese culture, because we have a fantastic Chinese collection. And people just had a fantastic time.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

93

Best of

education & community

Boca At Its Best At last year’s annual Boca Ballroom Battle, an inspirational performance by wheelchairbound Chris Holcomb sparked a spontaneous outpouring of support by the capacity crowd at the Boca Raton Resort & Club, resulting in some $30,000 for the George Snow Scholarship Fund.

Tim Snow, president of the fund, responded by creating a new scholarship category for students with disabilities.

education, but Boca certainly does more than its share to give students opportunities that other cities don’t or can’t. According to the Florida Department of Education, Boca Raton has nine schools with magnet programs—or, in the case of Don Estridge High Tech Middle School and Boca Elementary, entire magnet schools.

Best YouCan’t-TopThat Moment

Best School Attraction

No need for Zach Sussman to re-take the SAT during his senior year at Saint Andrew’s School.

Last December, the-then junior scored a perfect 2,400—earning 800s across the board in critical reading, math and writing. If standing on a plateau reached by less than 1 percent of the 1.7 million test takers around the country isn’t impressive enough, consider this: It was the first time Sussman had taken the exam.

Florida may not always make the grade as a state when it comes to

Designing Woman to Watch

Chris Holcomb and dance partner Sayra Vazquez

Zach Sussman

Former “Project Runway” contestant Amanda Perna returned to South Florida after her stint with the Lifetime reality TV show, launching her fashion line, The House of Perna, in Delray’s Artist Alley. After honing her skills at Calvin Klein, the Coral Springs native now exudes her own spirit through American-produced pieces.

Party of the Year

The annual FAU Gala celebrated the inaugural year of president John Kelly on three deckedout levels of the Martin F. and Jane Greenberg Foundation Tower of FAU Stadium. Attended by 700 people, the event raised more than $500,000 for student scholarships and was a welcome departure from the stuffy sit-down dinner model rampant

94

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Amanda Perna

t h g i l pot

S during high season here.

Highlights included international cuisine stations and full open bars, a spectacular fireworks display and top-notch entertainment—including a performance by Emil & Dariel, the rock cellists and Boca residents who were finalists last season on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.”

Event Within An Event According to Boating & Beach Bash founder Jay Van Vechten, the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Foundation’s booth at the Bash did more than just spread the word about its Boca-based organization. Nearly 40 people signed up that day to donate marrow.

James Gavrilos

Best BocaGoes-Ivy League Moment Congratulations to James Gavrilos, executive director at Boca Helping Hands, who was awarded a highly coveted scholarship from Harvard Business School’s South Florida Foundation to attend a weeklong strategic seminar this July in nonprofit management.

OcéAnE BOuLAIs ElEctrical EnginEEring studEnt at Fau, “stEam” advocatE

I

t makes sense that someone who lights up a room as effortlessly and as easily as Océane Boulais would find her calling in solar energy. It’s also what makes the junior at Florida Atlantic University the perfect ambassador for an acronym that seeks not only to dispel stereotypes but to energize Boca and beyond when it comes to this country’s potential in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

A one-time high school theater student-turned-electrical engineering major, Boulais did just that at this spring’s TEDx at Mizner Park when she put the A in STEM. Her enthusiastic presentation about the importance of the arts as it pertains to feats of engineering and technology (think Steve Jobs and any Apple product) is part of a push by the STEM community to turn its signature term into STEAM. “We’re trying to break away from this idea of some geek sitting behind a desk and crunching numbers all day,” says the 20-year-old from Oviedo, Fla. “We’re not all wearing buttoned-up shirts with pocket calculators. An effective STEM major knows how to use the A in arts. Innovation and exploring? That comes from the creative mind.”

This summer, Boulais is traveling to Iceland, one of the world leaders in renewable energy, to expand her own engineering horizons by taking classes at the University of Reykjavik and touring the island’s power plants.

Was there an a-ha! moment for you as you veered into engineering and, specifically, solar energy?

I did a mission trip in Costa Rica after high school.

We visited [third-world] neighborhoods that were covered in solar panels. It was the only way for them to harness power. And it worked. So if poverty-stricken communities can rely on these tiny solar-absorbing filaments, why can’t the rest of the

world? Are we willing to think outside the box and incorporate this into the bigger picture? That’s also where STEAM comes in. Art is thinking outside the box. It’s being unafraid of failure. There is something about art that is innately brave and bold. Sometimes, as engineering majors, we forget that we can be bold and courageous with our innovative projects and with our presentations. is there something you’ve learned early on in your studies, some statistic that jumps out, that would shock people?

It’s not even just the lack of fossil fuels that is an issue. Water recycling. Overflowing land fills. The issues are enormous. … It’s projected in 2050 that we’ll have 9.5 billion people on Earth. We’re currently at 7 billion. That’s insane. We have this awesome planet that we’re struggling to upkeep now. We’re trying. But if 7 billion people can’t be good stewards, how will 9 billion do it? … I want to be part of the wave that inspires people. And new technology, innovation—that’s what will inspire them.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

95

Best of

education & community

Charity Heroes

❉ Jay DiPietro, president and general manager at Boca West Country Club, is honored for his longtime support of underprivileged children with the inaugural “Hero of Hope” award at the Hope Bash Boca. ❉ Helen Babione, who practically started women’s volunteerism in Boca, and Connie Berry,

who co-founded Caridad Center, share the lifetime achievement award at the annual Woman Volunteer of the Year luncheon. ❉ The Impact 100 women give $436,000 to charity this year. ❉ Boca-based Jarden Consumer Solutions, through its community fund, donates $143,350 to South Florida charities including Ruth and Norman Rales Jewish Family

Jeff Atwater, Neil Meany, Charles Bender, and Sharon and Jay DiPietro at the “Hero of Hope” ceremony.

Ann Rutherford

Services and the Junior League of Boca Raton. ❉ Ann Rutherford is named Woman Volunteer of the Year, following a career of community involvement including cofounding the Boca Bacchanal, and volunteering for FAU, Lynn University, the Boca Raton Regional Hospital and Spirit of Giving Network. ❉ Christine E. Lynn gifts $300,000 to the College of Nursing at FAU that bears her name, $100,000 of which will support an endowed scholarship fund for students who plan on working at Boca Raton Regional Hospital. ❉ Speaking of BRRH, the new Marcus Neuroscience Institute receives a $2 million donation from Phillip and Peggy DeZwirek to name the Center for Spinal Disorders and Back Pain.

Connie Berry

Warriors, and kids and adults with physical and/ or intellectual challenges. New additions this year included a Body, Mind and Spirit Center, where participants learned wheelchair yoga and laughing yoga; and performances by DJs with cerebral palsy. Founder Jay Van Vechten described the event as feeling “like the Magic Kingdom on a busy Saturday.”

2. HopeFest: Jupiter parents Matt and Melissa Hudson, whose son Harrison tragically died from a hard-fought birth defect at the age of 5 months, founded the nonprofit Hope for Harrison, initially, to cover medical

Two superheroes at the Boating & Beach Bash

Feel-Good Events of the Year

1. Boating & Beach Bash for People With Disabilities: This heartwarming day of fun and activities, the largest of its kind in the nation, exceeded all expectations in its seventh year.

The event drew a record crowd of more than 5,000 to celebrate Wounded

96

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

expenses for their baby.

But in the years since Harrison’s 2011 passing, it’s morphed into Hope From Harrison, with Matt and Melissa hosting fundraisers to provide financial security for critically needy children. After years manning booths at SunFest and other festivals, the Hudsons—avid music lovers—staged their first HopeFest full-day festival last November at the Abacoa Amphitheater, an event meaningful enough to lure John Ralston, a singer-songwriter and Palm Beach County native, back to his home base for the first time in two and a half years.

Vital Flight Kids’ Day

Weird, Wild Stuff

Some crimes only seem to happen here in South Florida. Here are three incidents that occurred just this past spring.* ❉ I’ll get to you when I get to you: A Delray Beach man trying to rob a Dunkin’ Donuts waited in line with his ski mask on. When he reached the counter several minutes later and pulled out a gun, the cashier ignored him and took the order of the next customer. The would-be robber turned himself in, telling police he “wasn’t very good at the robbery thing.” ❉ the D Is for DrIve—anD Dumb: Two would-be thieves tried to steal a dump truck in Lake Worth. One small problem: Neither man knew how to drive a dump truck. ❉ smear Job: A Boca woman, furious that her neighbor failed to pick up the mess in her yard made by the neighbor’s dog, collected the evidence with a baggie, sprinted toward the neighbor—and wiped it all over her face and arms. * Sources: Sun-Sentinel, Palm Beach Post

3. Vital Flight Kids’ Day: Approximately 150 special-needs children took to the skies in April at this fifth-annual event from Vital Flight, a nonprofit air transportation service based in Pompano Beach. The four-passenger planes departed from Boca Raton Airport, representing 80 percent of the day’s overall flights. Attendees waited more than an hour for the opportunity to fly for 20 minutes up the Palm Beach County coastline in a private jet. Vital Flight kept visitors entertained with free pizza, a bounce house, carnival games and pony rides.

New Reason to Go Bowling FAU and the city hosted the first Boca Bowl,

which, on the field, turned into a blowout (Marshall blasted Northern Illinois, 52-23). Off the field, the final score remains to be seen.

Though all of the roughly 30,000 tickets to FAU Stadium were accounted for, empty seats outnumbered occupied seats at kickoff. Organizers believe more community outreach will increase turnout. Boca Chamber CEO Troy McLellan is on the executive committee, and the chamber will make a push to raise corporate participation.

ESPN, which owns and operates the game, has five more years on its contract. The goal for the 2015 game, in Mayor Susan Haynie’s words, is “more sponsors and more attendees.”

visit bocamag.com for bonus ”best of boca” coverage, including expanded interviews and a directory.

The Power of Two

These three couples impressed us for different reasons over the past year.

1. John and Carolyn Kelly: As FAU president, John is taking aim at improving the college’s graduation rate, boosting the high-tech highway and working with the city to create a university-oriented district in the 20th Street neighborhood.

Though Carolyn spent football Saturdays trying to teach locals the proper way to tailgate (both Kellys have connections to football-frenzied Clemson), the former deputy commissioner at the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control brings considerably more to the table as First Lady. The Kellys are Boca’s new golden couple—and for good reason.

2. Charles and Robin Deyo: The couple’s family-owned Cendyn has been its own business success story, but the Deyos also have immersed themselves in the community, from his top board position at the YMCA to her involvement in Florence Fuller and the Junior League, among others. They chair things, they do things, they give money and people like them. Best of all, they have a gourmet burger restaurant in their office lobby. So they’re cool, too.

3. Dick and Barbara Schmidt: They’ve been major philanthropists over the years, and they continue to exert a heavyweight influence in Boca, from FAU and the hospital to the philanthropic and arts communities. Their most recent contribution was a $16 million gift to FAU for a state-of-the-art sports facility that promises to raise the college’s football profile. Barbara added to her own highly respected profile this year, bringing world-class speakers to FAU’s Peace Studies program, delivering an inspiring message at TEDx, and publishing a book, The Practice.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

97

style

u need o y , l a n i ig r o “To be alone and fol low t o be our instincts— only y ad of] fol lowing [instes.” ot her encer Antle, founder —Sp

Island Company

312 Clematis St., Suite 401, West Palm Beach, 561/833-8110, islandcompany.com Beach sheet, $65; James Been sunglasses, $195; coasters (set of 4), $40; small Island tote, $85; antique grommet bikini bottom, $74; antique grommet bikini top, $74; linen scarf belt, $38; Taylor board shorts, $75

98

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Blu + Baker

6590 W. Rogers Circle, Suite 10, Boca Raton, 561/443-0451, bluandbaker.com

Look no further than our own backyard for this summer’s must-have fashion and accessories thanks to six buzzed-about brands with roots in and around Boca.

Stingray cuff, $150; medium python cuff, $65; cell phone sling (limited edition), $440; Bridget mini bag, $575; natural/ green Walker tote, $900; Monty duffle, $925

PhotograPhy by AAron Bristol

rl’s ial ly i g a are d, especands g a “B st frien y are h . out be hen the he U.S w ade in t skins.” Baker, m exotic athy ounder of —C f bocamag.com follow the leader

|

99

style

EJ StErn

561/487-2572, ejstern.com clockwise from bottom left: Darcy, $550; Paulina, $425; Stefanie Louise, $475; Green Butterfly, $325; Martine, $375

100

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

I am , g n i n g i des t he “[W herne]d t o juxtaposoeund in t he l inspi uous beauty f f t he natura t sens and design o ble objet d’ar color int o a weara lity.“ world e highest qua Stern, founder of t h —El len

“We cat age, for er t o an at feminin women wh titude, no and wh e, distinct o are fearle t an conf ide o possess t ively chic ssly no one e nce t o wea he poise a r it like nd lse.”

—Sher yl C lar k, presid ent

Boston ProPer

Town Center at Boca Raton, 6000 Glades Road, 561/447-8633, bostonproper.com Turquoise boho earrings, $39; starburst cuff, $69; turquoise cuff, $59; whipstitch clutch, $50; perfect stacked heels, $119; Aztec embellished maxi dress, $98 follow the leader

bocamag.com [ fbool lcoawm tahge. cl eoamd e]r

|

101

style

Ramona LaRue by aRianne 530 E. Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, 786/564-5206, ramonalarue.com

Scarf, $35; Stevie kaftan, $280; green sleeveless blouse, $99; Charisma Designs necklace, $380 and bracelets, $95 each

102

|

“My ori transfer ginal paint each col red ont o t ings are wit h col lection is s he fabrics on t heir or, and t he ynchr onize ; woman f own. I aim prints sta d t — Aereilabeautiful.”o make evernyd nne Br o wn, foun der

bocamag.com july/august 2015

IrresIstIble

by DesIgn Comfort shoes designcomfortshoes.com

Yellow suede Lynne shoes, $248; black snake-print Claire shoes, $249; red snake-print Lynne shoes, $248; yellow Stephanie shoes, $249

t hat l e e h h g i h a “We’verbsutilhte question, ‘Wyhamteets answe ns when technolog arriage of happe n?’ Answer: t he m comfort.” fashio eel elegance wit h e Greenberg, high-h — Ilen founder aRT DIREcTIoN: Lori Pierino and Nancy Kumpulainen

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

103

In the Wake of the

RippeR Sonja Larson

Christa Hoyt

Manuel Taboada

Christina Powell

Tracy Paules

Twenty-five years after a series of grisly murders rocked the University of Florida, South Florida residents who lived through the nightmare recall the events that paralyzed a city and forever changed lives.

By Nila Do Simon

104

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

tampa bay times

J

August 1990: Stunned students at the University of Florida attend an emotional prayer service honoring the five victims.

ennie Sherrick had just finished moving into Broward Hall, a six-story, red-brick dorm in the center of campus at the University of Florida, when the phone rang. It should have been one of the most exciting days of her life; Sherrick, 18, only months removed from graduating with the class of 1990 at Deerfield Beach High School, was about to start her freshman year at college.

But the pre-semester buzz that typically filled the late-summer air in Gainesville had been replaced by an ever-growing sense of shock and terror.

The day before Sherrick had made the 305mile drive from her home in Lighthouse Point, police had discovered the bodies of two UF students, both freshmen. They had been savagely murdered, their mutilated and naked bodies arranged in a demented tableau inside their off-campus apartment.

Sherrick answered the phone. It was her friend from Florida State University calling to make sure she was safe. News of the murders had quickly spread to Tallahassee and beyond, prompting concern from friends and family that, within days, would become full-blown hysteria.

“One of the victims went to Ely and lived in Pompano,” the FSU friend said.

Sherrick began thinking. Ely High School? Why did that ring a bell?

“It’s Sonja Larson. Do you know her?”

Sherrick’s face went white. She had roomed with Larson a few months earlier at UF’s freshman “Preview,” a mandatory multiday orientation for entering students and their parents.

Sherrick hung up the phone and slumped to the dorm floor.

She pictured Larson’s beautiful, angelic face. She recalled how quickly she bonded with the petite brunette, also 18. Sherrick, admittedly shy, didn’t know anyone at Preview, but the outgoing Larson introduced her to one of her friends from Pompano Beach.

She remembered that Larson, the youngest in her family, was planning to study science and pre-engineering in the hopes of becoming a teacher.

As they said their goodbyes that May, the two girls promised to reconnect once school started. Sherrick was thinking about that goodbye when the news finally sunk in.

She raced down the hall of her dorm to the communal bathroom and vomited into a toilet. It wouldn’t be the last time that the memory of Sonja Larson would have such a profound impact on Jennie Sherrick’s life.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

105

Killer on the Loose

Eduardo SchnEidEr

Prior to the summer of 1990, any discussion of campus murders in the state of Florida began and ended with Ted Bundy. As part of his sevenstate killing spree between 1974 and 1978, Bundy broke into the Chi Omega sorority house at FSU and murdered two women—Lisa Levy, 20, and Margaret Bowman, 21—before assaulting two others, who both lived. That same night he brutally attacked a fifth FSU student at her apartment; she also survived.

It took seven hours in July 1979 for a jury to convict Bundy of those two murders, along with three counts of attempted first-degree murder. Along with two death sentences for those slayings, he would receive a third for killing a 12-year-old Lake City girl. Before his execution via the electric chair on Jan. 24, 1989, Bundy would confess to 30 murders; most experts believe that total is on the low side.

It had been roughly 18 months since Bundy’s remains had been cremated in Gainesville when a 36-year-old transient named Danny Rolling walked into a local Walmart on Archer Road to purchase a tent for his makeshift camp in a nearby wooded area.

It was there, on Aug. 23, 1990, that Rolling spotted Larson and Jacksonville native Christina Powell, only 17. He followed the girls to their

Boca resident Jennie Sherrick-Hodges

Danny Rolling is fingerprinted after conviction on a robbery charge in Ocala. He would later confess to the five murders.

106

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

GainESvillE Sun /landov

“You [were] painfully aware of your mortality at every single second [that summer]. You were so scared for your life and your friends’ lives. ... It was like living in hell.”

Then-president John Lombardi kept the school open following the murders in order to maintain a sense of normality amid the chaos.

tampa bay times

A phone bank was set up at a shopping plaza in Gainesville so that students could call home and assure their family members that they were safe.

Gainesville townhouse community, Williamsburg Village. Larson and Powell carried their purchases into unit 113; it was their first night in the apartment.

After pulling on a ski mask and a pair of gloves, Rolling broke into the back stairwell and entered the townhouse, where the two girls were fast asleep, Powell on the downstairs couch and Larson in her upstairs bedroom.

Rolling went first to Larson’s room, where the young girl had fallen asleep amid boxes of unpacked clothes and household items. He duct-taped her mouth, stifling her screams, and repeatedly tore at her flesh with the 4-inch blade of his KA-BAR hunting knife.

When she was later found, dental records had to be used to confirm her identity. Rolling then walked down the stairs and into Powell’s room; he forced her to perform oral sex on him and then raped her before stabbing her in the back five times with the same knife.

On Aug. 26, amid concern from the parents of Powell and Larson after not hearing from their daughters, authorities found the girls’ dead bodies. Early the next morning, yet another horrifying discovery was made inside an apartment on Southwest 24th Avenue. Nineteen-yearold Christa Hoyt, a student at Santa Fe Community College, had been similarly butchered but with a ghastly post-murder twist.

Rolling, having spotted Hoyt through her window the day before toweling off after a shower, broke into her empty apartment through a rear sliding-glass door and hid behind a bookshelf. When Hoyt returned home, Rolling ambushed her. He covered her mouth and bound her wrists together with duct tape before cutting off her clothes with his KA-BAR knife. He then sexually assaulted Hoyt before stabbing her to death.

Rolling wasn’t finished. He decapitated Hoyt and butterflied her

The killer set mirrors around the body to magnify the visual effect of the carnage.

remains from the chest to the pelvis. He then placed the naked, headless body in a seated position, and set the severed head on a bookshelf, arranging it as if the head was looking at the body.

Before leaving the scene, Rolling set mirrors around the body to magnify the visual effect of the carnage.

A city already crippled with fear was rocked yet again the following day, Aug. 28, when the bodies of Tracy Paules and her roommate Manuel Taboada, both 23 and both from Hialeah, were found slain inside their Gatorwood Apartment unit. bocamag.com follow the leader

|

107

spend 14 months in prison, but it turned out he was guilty of little more than not taking his medications.

Even with Humphrey behind bars, the normally serene, idyllic college town filled with ranch-style homes and moss-covered live oak trees was on edge. The killings had stopped, but was the killer still on the loose?

As far as residents and students were concerned, he was. The sale of deadbolt locks skyrocketed. So did Mace, baseball bats and anything that could be used as a weapon.

Playing It Safe

tampa bay times

Officials remove one of the dead bodies at Gatorwood Apartments, site of the final two murders.

Zabinsky’s boyfriend installed an early warning system: a string across her doorway with a brass bell. “We believed anything, even that ... bell, could have saved us.”

Rolling first found the sleeping Taboada, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound former high school football player, in his bedroom. After an intense struggle, Rolling finally subdued Taboada by stabbing him more than 30 times. He then set his sights on Paules, sexually assaulting and then killing her.

In the span of some 48 hours, five college students (four of them from UF), all 23 or younger, had been murdered and mutilated inside their off-campus apartments.

Though Rolling would be arrested in early September for armed robbery of a Winn-Dixie in Ocala, it would be another 14 months before authorities charged him with the killings.

In the meantime, a UF freshman battling mental illness, Ed Humphrey, would be targeted as a suspect after being arrested in late August following an altercation with his grandmother in Brevard County. The scar-faced teen who collected knives would

Timeline: The Gainesville Murders

108

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

may 1990: Danny Rolling leaves Shreveport, La., after he nearly killed his father by shooting him in the face.

Aug. 18-23, 1990: Rolling checks into the University Inn in Gainesville under the name “Michael Kennedy.”

Days after the bodies of Larson and Powell were discovered, the University of Florida opened its doors for the start of fall semester. At the time, the college served more than 33,000 degree-seeking students.

Then-president John Lombardi, who had arrived in Gainesville only a few weeks ahead of the summer semester to begin his tenure, remembers the shock that terrorized the campus. As Lombardi says today from his Arizona office, where he is the director of the Center for Measuring University Performance, he and the university administrators were in uncharted waters.

“We had lots of conversations about shutting down the school temporarily,” he says, “but we are an institution. So it was our responsibility to keep it open. We were going to operate it as close to normal as possible.”

Students were given a weeklong grace period, during which attendance was optional, with no penalty for missed classes. Some students, fearful that the man later nicknamed the “Gainesville Ripper” would strike again, left the university and never returned.

For those who stayed behind, campus life would never be the same.

Between daily morning meetings, which briefed university officials and student body president Mike Browne on recent police findings, and afternoon public forums, Lombardi and the administrators focused on giving

Aug. 23, 1990: Rolling creates a makeshift campsite in a wooded area just off the University of Florida campus.

Aug. 26, 1990: The bodies of UF students Sonja Larson of Pompano Beach and Christina Powell of Jacksonville are discovered.

Aug. 27, 1990: The body of Santa Fe Community College student Christa Hoyt, a Gainesville resident, is discovered.

Aug. 28, 1990: The bodies of UF students Manny Taboada and Tracy Paules, both from Hialeah, are discovered.

Consumed by Fear

Boca lawyer Stacey Zabinsky-Mullins

Stacey Zabinsky was in her second year of law school when the murders occurred. Always active, Zabinsky regularly woke up at 5 a.m. for solo runs through campus before the Florida heat crept in and before congestion would crowd her route on remote Radio Road. The mornings were still dark and the air quiet enough for her to focus on a brisk run before classes started. She was renting an off-campus garage apartment on the north side of University Avenue with fellow law student, Christi Hopkins.

The convenience of living within walking distance to the law school superseded any fears associated with living in a wooded area. The two would walk at night from law school to their apartment—sometimes alone, sometimes together—after the evening meetings held by their group at the UF Trial Team to prepare for competitions.

That all changed in August 1990.

Zabinsky and Hopkins—both petite, brunette and living off campus—fit the description of the female victims. With the monster still on the loose, they knew their lives were in danger.

Zabinsky woke up every morning and rushed to Wilbert’s—the nearby, all-encompassing mini-grocery store and bookstore that all the

law students frequented to get their morning coffee—in order to find out the latest details on the murders. Police officers, who stopped at Wilbert’s for their morning brew, often discussed the case within earshot of store owner Steve Langston.

“We would go in there for our morning coffee, and Steve would tell us all about the things he heard,” Zabinsky says. “He told us about Christa’s body being positioned before it was in the news.”

With each gruesome detail unveiled, Zabinsky and Hopkins

Aug. 30, 1990: UF student Ed Humphrey is arrested in Indialantic, some 100 miles from Gainesville, after an altercation with his

November 1991: Authorities charge Rolling with the murders while he is in jail in Marion County for the armed robbery.

grandmother.

Authorities target him as the prime suspect in the murders. Bail is set at $1 million on the assault case. Humphrey, who has a history

of manic depression, is never charged, but he does spend 14 months in prison.

Sept. 7, 1990: Rolling is arrested for armed robbery of a WinnDixie market in Ocala.

Eduardo SchnEidEr

the students a sense of safety amid the chaos. Campus lights were turned on at all hours of the night, field lights were rarely dimmed, extra campus police roamed the university, students were encouraged to walk in pairs or groups no matter the hour of the day, and counselors were at the ready to discuss the psychological effects of the murders.

As this was long before cellphones were common, the lines of students waiting to use payphones sometimes snaked along the perimeter of buildings. Some students had a system: They would call from either a payphone or landline to let parents or friends know they were leaving point A. When they arrived at point B, they’d call from another payphone or landline to let loved ones know they arrived safely.

At Broward Hall, Jennie Sherrick joined her dorm mates at organized mass sleepovers inside the communal lounges. The sleepovers made her feel safer at night, but the innocence she felt that summer during orientation was lost forever.

“You [were] painfully aware of your mortality at every single second [that summer],” says Sherrick (now Sherrick-Hodges) from her Boca Raton home, where she lives with her husband and three children.

“You were so scared for your life and your friends’ lives. You would go to sleep, and the next day you would wonder if it was going to be you or one of your friends. It was traumatizing.

“It was like living in hell.”

February 1994: Rolling pleads guilty to the five murders, three counts of sexual battery and three counts of armed burglary.

March 24, 1994: A jury finds Rolling guilty; he receives his sentence: death, five times over.

Oct. 25, 2006: Rolling is executed by lethal injection at Florida State Prison.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

109

took matters into their own hands to ensure their safety. Zabinsky’s boyfriend installed an impromptu alarm system outside of her bedroom door—a thin string that ran across her doorway from which a small brass bell hung. From her Boca Raton law office, Stacey Zabinsky-Mullins looks back and laughs at their early warning system.

“We were naive back then,” she says. “We believed anything, even that a silly bell tied on a string could have saved us.”

Shortly after the murders, the two roommates drove to their respective South Florida homes for the Labor Day break. When they returned from the long weekend, Hopkins had in her possession a different kind of security. She had taken a concealed weapons course in Miami and now owned a Glock handgun.

“We felt vulnerable at the apartment, all alone,” says Christi Hopkins-Sherouse, who practices law in Miami. “It’s what I did to feel safe.

Somebody was stalking students, and you just had that fear inside you that you were going to be next.”

She sold the Glock immediately after graduation.

Mind Games

As the killer remained on the loose that fall, Jennie Sherrick-Hodges was so shaken over losing her friend Sonja that she struggled to concentrate in class. Soon, she started having nightmares that kept her up at night.

She’d fall asleep in class or wouldn’t even attend. It was too much to handle. She ended up dropping a course toward the end of the semester.

Her mother, Janeice, remembers how grief-stricken her daughter was over the murders. During Christmas break, Sherrick-Hodges returned to her family’s Lighthouse Point home a different person. She was withdrawn, almost inconsolable. Her parents did everything they could to lighten their daughter’s mood. They took her shopping for new clothes just in case she wanted to rush a sorority that spring. They took her out to dinner. Nothing worked.

“She would just burst out crying,” Janeice says. “Jennie’s a very sweet, empathetic person. It very well could have been Jennie who roomed with Sonja that fall. You felt guilty. I wonder if Jennie felt guilty.”

By the time she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in philosophy, Sherrick-Hodges was starting to put the past behind her. That is until she moved back to Gainesville in 1998 to pursue her master’s degree in German studies. Suddenly, the memories came flooding back. Even after a suspect was convicted, Sherrick-Hodges couldn’t sleep at night while living alone in an off-campus apartment.

For years, she kept pepper spray underneath her pillow. Her mom says that she once found a sharp knife underneath her daughter’s pillow. The murders all occurred at night so Sherrick-Hodges reasoned that if she fell asleep in the dark, what might happen to her? For the two years that she attended grad school, she arranged her schedule to study and work on papers throughout the evening—and then fall asleep as the sun was coming up.

Today, Sherrick-Hodges pays homage to her UF history like many alums. She cheers for the Gators on fall Saturdays; she even bought a huge Gators rug for her boys’ rooms. However, she still asks her husband to check and re-check behind any shower curtains and closed closet doors before entering. When it comes to the safety of her three children, she says those turbulent times as an undergrad student make her more vigilant, more aware of her surroundings.

“When I tell my kids not to open the door for strangers, that timeframe is the first thing that comes to my mind,” Sherrick-Hodges says.

110

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

In SpurrIer We TruST

The return of a football legend helps UF heal.

T

his was the head coaching hire for which University of Florida football fans had been waiting.

The return of the school’s (to that point) only Heisman Trophy winner, back in Gainesville to lead a Gators team that had been plagued throughout the late 1980s by scandals off the field and mediocrity on it.

But whatever excitement was building around Steve Spurrier and his pass-oriented offense quickly dissipated in the wake of the student murders. Certainly nothing in Spurrier’s coaching past, mostly recently at Duke University (1987-89), had prepared him for the events that unfolded in August 1990.

He remembers doing whatever it took to keep the team focused on the season. “I believe you don’t let a sick individual like that affect your life,” says Spurrier, currently the head coach at South Carolina. “We refused to let it affect us. It was my job to keep these kids prepared for the football season.”

Not that Spurrier didn’t make concessions. While the team was holding two-a-day practices, he allowed players to check in on

their girlfriends or close friends in between workouts.

“The only thing different that we did was allow our players to sleep outside of our facilities,” Spurrier says. “If they had girlfriends or friends [that were] girls, we’d let them stay with them overnight to make them feel safer.”

Ultimately, Spurrier’s return to his alma mater gave the university—and all of Gainesville—its first opportunity to exhale since the murders.

More than 75,000 fans filled Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Sept. 8 for the first game of the Spurrier era, only 13 days after police discovered the first two bodies. On the team’s opening drive against Oklahoma State, quarterback Shane Matthews completed three straight 17-plus-yard passes. The crowd roared. The stadium shook. The Gators won 50-7, lifting the spirits of not just those in the stadium but the entire city.

The Gators, ineligible that year due to NCAA probation, would end the season with the Southeastern Conference’s best record and finish 9-2 overall. One year later, UF won its first SEC title in school history.

“When I tell my kids not to open the door for strangers,” Sherrick-Hodges says, “[1990] comes to my mind.”

Case Closed

Rolling would be arrested on Sept. 7, 1990 for an unrelated armed robbery of the Winn-Dixie store in Ocala. While serving his sentence, he confessed to his cellmate that he committed the student murders in Gainesville; his cellmate reported the admission to the prison warden.

Rolling said he was following the instructions of a demon named “Ynnad” (“Danny” spelled backward). Authorities began investigating Rolling, eventually linking his DNA to that found at an abandoned campsite just off campus. Police found a screwdriver believed to have been used to break into the apartments, a pubic hair matched to Hoyt and taped audio diaries of Rolling that alluded to the killings. Reports emerged that hours before the first murders, Rolling had watched the horror film “Exorcist III,” during which a woman’s body is mutilated.

Finally, in November 1991, he was officially charged with all five murders.

Mary Shedden, a UF journalism school senior and student reporter for New York City’s Newsday and for the Orlando Sentinel when the murders occurred, eventually landed a job at the Gainesville Sun. She covered the investigation and the trial of Rolling, growing close to each of the victim’s family members along the way. After attending countless hearings and trials, they all reached the same conclusion: That the sick killer simply wanted the attention. He wanted his name and his deranged actions to live on long after his death.

The victims’ families made it their mission to ensure that just the opposite happened, vowing to never even utter his name. “George Paules [Tracy’s father] would refer to him as ‘gutter spit,’” Shedden says.

Shedden remembers seeing Rolling in person for the first time at a prison courtroom in 1991. He was handcuffed and wearing a drab green prison T-shirt with dark pants. His brown hair was in a sort of buzz cut, he had bushy eyebrows, and his face was leaden as the judge spoke.

“I remember kind of trying to grasp how non-threatening and how pathetic he looked,” says Shedden, who is now a health reporter for NPR affiliate WUSF. “He didn’t fit that mode of Ted Bundy, who had those steely eyes and was that mastermind.”

Fifteen years later, on Oct. 25, 2006, Rolling was executed by lethal injection at Florida State Prison in Raiford—the same place where, nearly 17 years earlier, Ted Bundy had been electrocuted.

......

ne night in September 1990, close to midnight, Adam Tritt stopped his scooter at the famed 34th Street Wall, where graffiti artists contribute weekly, sometimes daily, murals with messages ranging from frat mantras to “Will you marry me?” to “Go Gators.”

Tritt, who wasn’t even a student at UF, carried buckets of black, white and red paint. A friend eventually joined him, bringing brushes, rollers and paint trays. The two

painted into the wee hours.

Against a fresh coat of black as the backdrop, the two wrote the names of the five student victims in thick white paint. They drew hearts around the names and colored them in with red paint.

And then one word, one mandate, was strewn diagonally on the mural: Remember.

While other tributes on the 1,120-foot-long wall have come and gone, this impromptu memorial remains an unspoken protected space among university students. Stacey Zabinsky-Mullins, the law student who so intently followed the case in 1990, ran past it last fall while visiting her daughter, who was in her freshman year at UF. Running along the west side of 34th Street, Mullins crossed the street to the east side, where the wall stands, to pay her respects.

For others, the memory of a late summer filled with fear and death is not about what was lost but what endures.

“In the end, it was about Sonja, Christina, Christa, Manny and Tracy,” Shedden says. “I never met them, but I can say their names and I will never forget their faces.

And that’s stronger than any name of any killer that took their lives.”

“I never met the [victims],” Shedden says.

“But I will never forget their faces.”

The tribute to the victims remains a sacred spot on the 34th Street Wall.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

111

n I e v i r D e Th E G N E L L A H C Boca Raton shines its headlights on the three remaining South Florida relics of mid-century moviegoing.

By John Thomason

A screen at Lake Worth Drive-In. Far right, from top: The snack trailer and viewing area at Blue Starlite in Miami

112

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

T

he idea started in a Camden, N.J. driveway. That’s where Richard Hollingshead, then managing his father’s auto parts store, mounted a projector on the hood of his car, strung up a sheet between two trees and screened a movie from the comfort of his front seat.

A year later, in 1933, Hollingshead charged 25 cents per car (and another 25 cents per person) to enjoy a similar experience at the first drive-in theater.

Prized for their convenience factor—an early marketing slogan touted that “the whole family is welcome, regardless of how noisy the children are”—as well as for their privacy, drive-in theaters peaked in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with more than 4,000 sprouting along the fruited plane.

Some of these cinemas weathered accusations of being “passion pits” for necking teenagers; others capitalized on this reputation by converting to X-rated theaters. Most eventually shut down, with the emerging home video market of the ’70s and ’80s rendering them superfluous. By 2013, drive-ins constituted 1.5 percent of movie screens in the U.S., down from 25 percent at the industry’s height.

South Florida is still home to three of these nostalgic novelties, including one that opened just a couple of years ago.

Surprisingly, in this era of IMAX and iPic, all three do their share of business.

Boca Raton sampled a movie at each theater from the comfort of this writer’s Nissan. While each venue brought its own flavor to the drive-in experience, one overriding complaint remained: I don’t clean my windshield enough.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

113

here p s o tm a e th , h g u o r th "Once you make it e travel m ti a g n ti es g g u s l, ea r is sur or both." e, r tu fu e th t, s a p e th to

Swap Shop Fort Lauderdale

3291 W. Sunrise Blvd., Lauderhill Ambience: The grande dame of South Florida drive-ins launched in 1963 as a single-screen cinema, long before the flea market ballooned around it. For a time it screened porn films; complaints from motorists prompted the planting of privacy palms along Sunrise Boulevard.

But the Swap Shop has long since cleaned up its content, even if its provocative origins occasionally resurface: In 2014, it was the first, and for a while the only, theater in the county to open “The Interview” on Christmas Day. Today, it is credited as the largest drive-in theater in the U.S., with 14 screens beaming blockbusters across an endless parking lot.

Once you pay at the

box office, you’re pretty much free to park your vehicle in front of any screen you want. Because the Swap Shop is an outdoor multiplex, screens are planted fairly close to one another, like baseball players around a diamond, producing some peripheral vision issues. You can be watching an intense war drama on your screen and drift over to an asinine comedy next door, or vice versa—which is both cool and a little disconcerting. GrAde: b TechnicAl quAliTy: This is a crapshoot.

As with most drive-ins, audio is transmitted through FM stations in your car stereo. The station for our screening was static-heavy throughout, though others were crystal-clear.

Likewise, the video for our selection, “American Sniper,” looked pixelated and low-definition compared to the bright and clear 2K digital projection of most of its other screens, which seemed to be industry-standard digital. The theater is also one of the last remaining venues to still project 35mm film (on two of its screens), which is a perk for purists. GrAde: c+ VAlue: This is where the Swap Shop really excels. Like the dirt-cheap name brands offered at its daylight market, its nocturnal movies are the

Images from the Swap Shop in Fort Lauderdale

most inexpensive way to see first-run entertainment. Admission is $7 per person, and on Tuesdays, you get two tickets for the price of one. Visit on Mondays and Tuesdays for a free popcorn coupon. Grade: a ContaCt: 954/791-7927, floridaswapshop.com

Lake Worth Drive-In

3438 Lake Worth Road, Palm Springs ambienCe: The little sister of the Lauderhill drive-in shares the same owner, website and flea-market-by-day dual identity. It’s midway between I-95 and the Florida Turnpike, not exactly the toniest district in Lake Worth. In fact, it’s a stone’s throw from the Wild West Gentlemen’s Club.

Aside from the lone employee manning the box office booth, there were about as many cars as there were resident cats prowling the capacious lot on the night of my visit.

Though, to be fair, it was a sleepy and rainy winter Monday. While it can show up to four first-run movies at any given time, the Lake Worth Drive-In has just two screens spread generously apart; unlike its big brother, you won’t have the flicker of competing films dis-

tracting you from the movie of your choice.

The difference between the two Swap Shop drive-ins is like visiting an Anheuser-Busch factory versus a local craft brewery; this one is homier and more intimate, and the one I’d most want to sample again. Grade: b+ teChniCal quality: One of the occupational hazards of the drive-in experience is that weather can sometimes interrupt even the most flawless presentation. High wind gusts and pelting rain added a third visual dimension to the fatuous bauble “Jupiter Ascending,” creating an obstruction that was actually more welcome than the movie’s portentous dialogue.

Once the storm cleared, the image quality was at least an industry-standard 2K digital—but projected on a screen designed for 35mm, so the presence of vertical lines was faintly present behind the image. Also, while one of the two screens is appropriately wide, another is ancient and square, leaving empty space above and below the image. This time, though, the audio through our FM dial was perfect. Grade: b Value: Like the Lauderhill location, value remains the strongest element for spending a night at owner Preston Henn’s drive-ins.

Admission remains a bargain $7, with free popcorn on select nights at the concession stand, which is even more accessible here.

Grade: a+ ContaCt: 561/965-4518, floridaswapshop.com

Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In

3500 Main Highway, Miami ambienCe: This is the hipster speakeasy of local drive-ins, an offshoot of a successful Austin-based enterprise of the same name.

No matter what your GPS says, you’ll get lost finding it the first time: It’s in a semi-private hideaway behind the old Coconut Grove Playhouse; you’ll have to motor through a vacant bank parking lot before you encounter it.

Once you make it through, the atmosphere is surreal, suggesting a time travel to the past, the future, or both. Vintage cinema commercials play on the 22-foot-by-11-foot screen before the movie, and light-festooned food and drink trailers are lathered with famous movie quotes: “You talkin’ to me?,” “I love the smell of napalm in the morning,” etc.

The service is singular and impeccable, with owner Josh Frank greeting you upon entry and explaining his concept of the boutique drive-in (he can comfortably accommodate fewer than 30 cars).

The programming is equally esoteric, often featuring cult movies—think “The Big Lebowski,” “The Goonies”—and deliberately bad movies, sometimes accompanied by live “Mystery Science Theater”-style commentary from local film geeks. Other interactive perks ensure an always-unique experience, and the alcoholic beverages are offbeat and imaginative. Grade: a+ teChniCal quality: Being a small operation, the Blue Starlite lacks the funds to invest in top-of-the-line $70,000 Digital Cinema Projection. And considering that it mostly screens retro titles, it would probably be a wasted expense, anyway. The video is transmitted from disc to a 1080p high-def projector, so the quality will be similar to watching a Blu-ray at home. Grade: b Value: Cost is the most byzantine element of Frank’s venture, and explaining the price ranges could take up this entire article.

Generally, though, expect to pay more, and hopefully to receive a more personalized experience, than elsewhere. As with hotel fees or Obamacare, you can get basic all the way up to luxury coverage, so your night can cost anywhere from $15 to $55, with or without the perks. Walk-ins can pay $7 and sit on lawn chairs in front of the screen. Grade: bContaCt: miamiurbandrivein.com bocamag.com follow the leader

|

115

From left: The King Room at One Ocean; a sculpture at Azurea restaurant; the view from the balcony, overlooking the Atlantic

116

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Florida Escapes

Why should tourists have all the fun? The Sunshine State offers plenty of reasons—from beach retreats to golf getaways—for residents to pack their bags.

By Kevin Kaminski and Marie Speed

GOING COASTAL

z

One Ocean ReSORt HOtel & Spa 1 Ocean Blvd., atlantic Beach, 800/874-6000

WHeRe: About 4.5 hours drive time, 13 miles east of Jacksonville WHy GO: This property, once the venerable Sea Turtle Hotel, has always been the grand anchor of Atlantic Beach. But its incarnation as One Ocean takes it to a whole new level of luxury and beachfront style. The hotel numbers under 200 rooms with a wide beachfront, dreamy luxury spa, great vistas and excellent dining. Perhaps its most delicious amenity is its docent service— think your own private butler, who can accommodate everything from unpacking bags and walking dogs to planning excursions, arranging for a nanny or running errands.

Even if you decide to rough it and dial up room service, One Ocean offers the best of both vacation worlds—part getaway, part party central. First, it has all the ambience of an oceanfront retreat, including the calm North Florida vibe (no blaring salsa in these parts).

Plus, it has location, location, location. One Ocean is smack dab in what the locals call “The Corner,” arguably the hot spot of the Jacksonville beaches, with a number of small restaurants and bars, including iconic Pete’s Bar, the oldest in Duval County and legendary in its own right, for all the good (and bad) reasons. Dining options include Ragtime Tavern and Slider’s for seafood, Poe’s Tavern (burgers) and the Flying Iguana Taqueria, but everyone comes here for entertainment, so barhopping is a weekend staple.

That said, the best food in The Corner is right in the hotel at Azurea, which is sublime. The dinner menu has Florida hogfish for starters (no one ever has that) as well as other seafood choices and a carnivorous list. Between that and a bar that is routinely awarded “Best Hotel Bar” by local publications, you may elect not to even step outside.

Wait, tHeRe’S MORe: Azurea also offers a five-course dinner option “for the adventurous palate” which just might be the best way to cap off your vacation at this delightful North Florida resort.

SuMMeR SpecialS: Deals include a fourth night for 50-percent off. To see all the specials, visit oneoceanresort.com/ special.aspx.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

117

From left: The windswept par-3, 17th hole, and the dramatic ninth hole at the Ocean Course.

The Ocean Course at Hammock Beach is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in all of Florida.

HITTING THE LINKS

z Hammock BeacH ResoRt

200 ocean crest Drive, Palm coast, 888/825-3062

WHeRe: It’s a straight shot up I-95, about four hours from Boca and some 30 minutes north of Daytona Beach WHy Go: Nestled within a lob wedge of the Atlantic, this inspired oceanfront retreat may, on the one hand, be the closest thing to Pebble Beach that golf enthusiasts have in Florida. On the other hand, it’s one of the state’s hidden gems for families looking to sneak away for a long weekend.

The spaciousness of the accommodations, alone, distinguishes this 330-room property—options include multi-bedroom villas and suites with private wrap-around balconies, stunning views and, in some cases, fully equipped kitchens with living and dining room areas. If you bring the kids, pack extra sunscreen and goggles; chances are they’ll never leave the 91,000-square-foot water pavilion, complete with a lazy river and water flume.

If you bring the sticks, and you have a handicap in double digits, pack a few extra sleeves of balls. Hammock Beach features two championship golf courses—emphasis on championship given that the devilish Ocean Course is designed by Jack Nicklaus while the Conservatory Course is courtesy of Tom Watson.

118

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

The Ocean Course regularly cracks lists of the state’s best layouts, and for good reason. Jack offers all kinds of eye candy, especially during a home stretch of holes dubbed “The Bear Claw” that brings the Atlantic into view—and, depending on the day, its severe winds into play. But too much looking and not enough thinking, and Jack will punish you; it’s a course, with water on 12 of 18 holes, that forces golfers to carefully consider each shot.

The Conservatory, which plays a staggering 7,776 yards from the back tees (and is equally challenging from the closer tees), makes its own demands as the longest course in all of Florida. Aesthetically, it’s a beauty in its own right, with undulating fairways, bunkers that border the entire length of certain holes, waterfalls and brooks, and velvety smooth greens.

Throw in a 200-slip marina (with kayaking available), a 10,000-square-foot spa, eight clay tennis courts and access to a pristine beach, and it’s easy to see why this is one Hammock that guests could relax in forever.

Wait, tHeRe’s moRe: Lest we forget, Hammock Beach has a slew of dining options, including a poolside café, the appropriately named Sushi Bar, and Delfinos for Italian fare. The Atlantic Grille, in addition to serving breakfast and lunch, offers four-star evening fare on its simple but expertly curated menu of meat and seafood dishes. summeR sPecials: Click on the “specials & packages” link at hammockbeach.com for a full menu of deals in several categories, incluing golf, spa and family packages.

z

more Summer DealS

Properties in and around boca are offering summer specials for Florida residents.

• Waterstone resort & Marina (999 e. camino real, boca, 561/368-9500): This waterfront sanctuary overlooking the Intracoastal has a variety of specials, including one for Florida residents and AAA members, weekend getaway specials and packages for families looking for a stay-cation.

Call for details.

• seagate Hotel & spa (1000 e. atlantic ave., Delray beach, 561/665-4800): The Seagate is offering a Florida resident discount that includes resort credit. The promotion runs through Sept. 30.

• WyndHaM deerfield BeacH (2096 n.e. second St., 954/428-2850): Along with 20-percent off the best

The 18th hole on the Palmer course, with Reunion Grande in the background

Reunion ResoRt

7593 Gathering Drive, Kissimmee, 866/880-8563

WheRe: A little more than three hours if driving the turnpike from Boca; a stone’s throw from Disney World Why Go: Like Hammock Beach, Reunion is not only part of the Salamander family of properties, it also has an irresistible golf component: Reunion is the only destination on the planet to feature courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson and Arnold Palmer—who, between them, account for 33 major golf titles.

As one might expect, the beautifully manicured layouts take on the personalities of their architects: the Nicklaus, with its calculated design, can produce brain cramps; the Watson, with its challenging bunkers and sprawling greens, tests the short game; and the Palmer, with dramatic elevation changes and tempting high-risk shots, encourages your swashbuckling side to come out and play.

Adding to the golf setting is the first teaching facility from LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam, as well as the Frankly Golf Putting Academy.

Along with the one- and two-bedroom villas at the 11-story Reunion Grande, the resort features an array of spacious condo-esque offerings, plus vacation homes (see “Wait, There’s More” section). Because of this, the property has more of a small community vibe—one that happens to have a full-blown water park and 10 additional pools.

Dining highlights include Eleven, a meat-lover’s paradise (think

• eau palM BeacH resort & spa (100 S. ocean blvd., manalapan, 561/533-6000): Eau is rolling out the red carpet for its summer visitors with a slew of concepts, many of them built around the notion of being social. There are discounts for Florida residents, for those booking suites, for those booking spa treatments, and even third-night-free deals. Activities, meanwhile, include a lobsterbake dinner party, Friday family game night at the teen club, a paddleboard/snorkel competition, bonfire nights—and much more. Call for details.

John R. Johnson / golfphotos.com

z

available rate, the Wyndham’s “Stay-cation” special includes a welcome beverage, discounts at area restaurants, a bottle of sun lotion—and a beach ball!

16-ounce, bone-in rib-eye or double-cut Mongolian lamb chops) on the rooftop of Reunion Grande that offers nightly views of the fireworks show at nearby Magic Kingdom.

Wait, theRe’s MoRe: Part of Reunion’s allure is being able to draw from its pool of sprawling luxury rental homes, perfect for family gatherings, getaways with a group of friends or bachelor/bachelorette weekends. One such property caught the attention of HGTV’s “House Hunters”—a nine-bedroom, 5,550-square-foot estate with nine full bathrooms, a private pool and a Harry Potter-themed home theater. suMMeR specials: Go to reunionresort.com/packages for a list of featured specials. bocamag.com follow the leader

|

119

Florida's longest infinity pool, on the 15th floor of the Viceroy, overlooks Biscayne Bay.

Brunch at 15th & Vine

TASTE OF MIAMI

z Viceroy MiaMi

robin hill

485 Brickell ave., Miami, 866/781-9923

120

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Where: About 40 minutes south of Boca, depending (of course) on traffic Why Go: The better question is, “Why not?” If you’re looking for a little two-night “unplug-and-unwind” escape, the Viceroy promises to recharge your batteries in more ways than one. Though stacked snugly in the heart of the city’s financial district, the resort and its play areas are dripping with Miami chic.

Look no further than the scene outside the 15th floor, home to, what the Viceroy describes as, “Florida’s longest infinity pool.” The only thing as visually striking as the series of pools that seems to stretch for two football fields is the jaw-dropping view from the back deck that overlooks Biscayne Bay. The people-watching, as one might expect, is an amenity in and of itself.

From that back sun deck, it’s a short walk to the Viceroy’s 28,000-squarefoot spa, the interior vision of renowned French designer Philippe Starck.

Treatments run the gamut, from HydraFacial therapy and couples massages to special pre- and post-pregnancy offerings. The spa also offers more fitness classes than many stand-alone gyms, including a deceptively all-encompassing bodysurf workout—SurfSet—unique to South Florida.

On the restaurant front, the seasonal fare at 15th & Vine is a Miami must. The emphasis here is small plates, fresh ingredients and some global spice mixed with contemporary American dishes. The spring menu included a to-die-for chicken-and-chorizo paella, and fork-tender corvina fish with leeks, haricot vert and potato confit. It’s worth checking out the Chef’s Tasting Menu ($65 per person for eight plates, $90 per person for 12 plates) just to experience everything the restaurant has to offer.

Accommodations at the Viceroy include junior suites that run nearly 600 square feet and East Asian-inspired decor by interior designer Kelly Wearstler. But trust us: With so much to see and do, no one is staying in their rooms for long at the Viceroy.

Wait, there’s More: Oh yes, how could we forget: The Viceroy also is home to one of the sweetest weekend hot spots in town. The übercool FIFTY Ultra Lounge, open on Fridays and Saturdays only, draws the velvet rope crowd into the wee hours (the club is open from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.). Why? If overlooking all of Miami from its 50th floor perch isn’t enough reason, there is the rooftop pool, the killer DJ, the outdoor cabana tables and indoor VIP tables—and the potential for spotting a celebrity or two. Or at least someone who looks like one. suMMer specials: The hotel’s “Some Like It Hot” campaign, running through Sept. 30, features a variety of promotions—Florida resident discounts; buy-one, get-one-free spa treatments between noon and 2 p.m. on weekdays; spa/lunch deals; happy hour specials at 15th & Vine; and much more. Visit viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/en/Miami, and click on the offers link for details.

z The STandard

Claudia uribe

40 Island ave., Miami Beach, 305/673-1717

Where: One hour’s drive south to Miami, on Belle Isle in Biscayne Bay Why Go: Everyone associates Miami Beach with life in the fast lane, and that’s pretty easy to find. But sometimes, getting away from it all is exactly what the doctor ordered, and that is what The Standard is— times 10. This luxurious minimalist boutique hotel has a hip European vibe and a big spa emphasis. Getting there is even trippy, with a romantic retro ride across the charming Venetian Causeway to Belle Isle—a trip back to a more graceful era in Miami’s history, and to the place that hotel magnate André Balaz renovated from the Lido Spa. Described by American Spa magazine as “a haven of communal relaxation and hydrotherapy,” The Standard is all clean lines and light (rather than Rat Packers slamming martinis), ensconced in lush tropical gardens with hidden-away nooks and whimsical seating areas.

Then there’s the spa: think floral treatments that exfoliate and “resurface” skin, cleansing massages, facials, the works—or you can do Pilates, jiu-jitsu or meditation.

Our favorite point of interest, the Lido Restaurant & Bayside Grill, smack on Biscayne Bay, may have the best view of Miami. This open deck on the water is the way most people wish Miami still was—water the color of polar mints, megayachts cruising by, a silver city skyline sparkling across the bay. And there you are with a glass of very good Rosé and your pick of a light but flavorful menu inspired by the Mediterranean diet. This is a whole fresh take on Miami, and the kind of getaway that may restore the spirit as well as delight the senses.

WaIT, There’S More: The Standard offers a vast array of wellness programs, from Tantra wisdom and meditation circles to healing sound baths. You will want to live here.

SuMMer SpecIalS: Ask about the “Spoiled by the Spa” special, which includes a daily spa credit. Visit standardhotels.com, and click on the Spa Miami Beach option for more info.

From top: The lobby area at The Standard; outside seating at the Juice Café

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

121

The Boca Beach Club, with luxury accommodations overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offers its own summer specials. Visit bocabeachclub.com for details.

122

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

z Boca Raton ResoRt & cluB 501 e. camino Real, Boca Raton

WheRe: Your own backyard Why Go: The sumptuous Boca Raton Resort & Club has been part of the city landscape here for so long that those of us who are not resort Premier Club members may forget what it has to offer.

Like gourmet dining options such as Morimoto, 501 East, Lucca or The Blue high atop the tower. The sleek Beach Club is a whole other story, with its Sea Grille, surf school, paddleboards and pools. The Resort has undergone a sea change—literally—with a new emphasis on its coastal attributes and a move toward lively and hip diversions in addition to the standard golf, dine and drink model.

The newest attraction is the FlowRider by the Tower Pool, a water attraction that offers guests thrilling surf rides—at all different levels—by generating “sheet waves” that emulate ocean waves in an enclosed system. Inventor Tom Lochtefeld says the experience is not as much like surfing as it is like “skateboarding a half-pipe with water as a medium.”

The FlowRider and the surfing school offer active family fun and complement the luxury amenities of this classic destination resort. It may make sense to stick around this summer—and see what’s happening in your own backyard.

Wait, theRe’s MoRe: Think of a scavenger hunt—only more educational—and dive into the resort’s innovative Mizner’s Quest, a self-guided family discovery tour filled with interactive learning experiences. This customized walking tour is comprised of 17 Points of Discovery around the historic resort, complete with map, special signposts and wristbands collected after each stop. Families are encouraged to share their experiences and photos on Facebook, and can become eligible for the Resort’s “Top Explorer of the Week.” suMMeR specials: The resort has summer rates in effect through Aug. 31 (with room nights starting at $199) and specials including a “Uniquely Boca Inclusive Package” that offers free breakfast, and discounts on golf, tennis and spa treatments. Visit bocaresort.com for details.

clockwise from opposite page: The pool at Boca Beach Club; the exterior of the Boca Raton Resort & Club; inside the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Spa; casual American fare at 501 East Kitchen & Bar inside the Resort

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

123

Linens so amazing you’ll want to take them home!

WWW.ATLASPARTYRENTAL.COM | INFO@ATLASPARTYRENTAL.COM | 561.547.6565

backstagepass [ 126 hot list • 130 spotlight: wayne white • 132 take 5: matt corey ]

[ by john thomason ]

IdIna Menzel When: July 26 Where: Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton About: John Travolta, in a moment of severe teleprompter malfunction, famously butchered this soaring soprano’s name at the 2014 Oscars. But for theater people, Idina Menzel is a household dynamo, maintaining a spot on our radars and in our hearts since her 1996 breakthrough in the original Broadway cast of “Rent.”

Her credits since have been sparse but immaculate, from “Hair” and “Aida” to the original cast of “Wicked” and the recent Tony nominee, “If/ Then.” Oh yeah—and she starred as the Snow Queen in a minor Disney project called “Frozen,” with her chilly avatar becoming a staple on the bedroom wall of every 10-year-old girl in America. Trained as a classical singer since age 8, Menzel has become just as proficient in rock, pop, jazz and R&B as the show tunes she belts in her day job. Her tours offer a little bit of everything—from Radiohead, the Police and Ethel Merman to Cole Porter, “Wicked” and “Frozen”—delivered alongside her signature wit, self-deprecation and personal anecdotes.

Cost: $70–$480 ContACt: myboca.us/pages/ mizneramphi

more a&e coverage at bocamag.com Visit bocamag.com for all your local A&E coverage, including John Thomason’s Monday breakdown of the upcoming week’s cultural events; movie, concert and theater reviews; interviews with local entertainers— and much more.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

125

backstage pass

hotlist “The lAsT Five YeArs” When: July 17–Aug. 2 Where: Sol Theatre, 3333 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton About: The dissolution of relationships is a common theme in the rich history of American theater. Writing plays, after all, is cheaper than therapy, and can produce new insights for the playwright and his theatergoers. But Jason Robert Brown’s “The Last Five Years” is a fresh take on this familiar autopsy of love wrecked. Premiering off-Broadway in 2002, it’s a sung-through, two-character musical in which the woman, struggling playwright Cathy, sings her numbers in reverse chronological order, beginning with their separation, while emerging novelist Jamie sings his tunes in chronological order, beginning with his starry-eyed first encounter with Cathy. They rotate their songs on opposite ends of the stage, in a whiplash-inducing tennis match between sorrow and anticipation, gnawing contempt and unfettered love, until they finally meet in the middle. Take away this ingenious concept and you’d still have an honest and moving musical about how divergent careers and nagging resentments can torpedo a once-promising union. “The Last Five Years” is so real it hurts, yet it’s not without levity.

Cost: $10–$18 ContACt: 561/447-8829, eveningstar productions.org

BrendA hope ZAppiTell: “A JourneY oF GesTures” When: July 25–Aug. 23 Where: Boca Raton Museum of Art, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton About: For Delray artist Brenda Hope Zappitell, a group exhibition in a local museum is one thing; a solo show in a respected gallery is another.

She’s enjoyed plenty of both, at venues ranging from Boca’s Rosenbaum Contemporary to galleries in Santa Fe, Tulsa and Park City. But this summer’s month-long showcase at Boca Raton Museum of Art is a new plateau for this award-winning painter: a solo exhibition at a major regional museum. After spending her formative years at the museum’s art school, Zappitell’s graduation to the institution’s big-sister venue is no surprise, considering the maturation and consistency of her work. Once a representational painter with abstract flourishes, Zappitell is now an abstract expressionist with only the faintest figural intimations. Like a prose writer switching her focus to poetic verse, she finds in her decisive brush strokes a fierce beauty, freed from the crutch of familiar forms. Her paintings, which bear such ephemeral titles as “Chasing Placidity” and “Embracing the Essence of Yin,” build from her immersion into such Buddhist principles as mindfulness, meditation and yoga.

Cost: $10–$12, free for members and students ContACt: 561/392-2500, bocamuseum.org

“Weird Al” YAnkovic When: Aug. 15 Where: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale About: “Weird Al” Yankovic is proof that the normally forecasted tides of music sales can sometimes yield a powerful, unpredictable wave. Last summer, Yankovic, considered by many a relic of the last century—a parody artist who had become a self-parody—released the No. 1 Billboard-charting album in the country. His 14th LP, “Mandatory Fun,” was a genuine industry disrupter, becoming the first comedy album to hit No. 1 since Allan Sherman’s “My Son, the Nut” in 1963. But this only sounds shocking until you hear the album, and realize how justified Yankovic’s newfound attention is. “Mandatory Fun” is arguably his most inspired collection ever, from his cheerfully sardonic take on pop hits like “Royals” (“Foil”), “Happy” (“Tacky”) and “Blurred Lines” (“Word Crimes”) to clever originals such as “Mission Statement” (a corporate mission statement put to music) and “First World Problems” (“I bought too many groceries for my refrigerator/I forgot my gardener’s name, I’ll have to ask him later”). His recent set lists reflect the spring in his step, including a dizzying 12-song medley of early hits.

Cost: $30–$123.90 ContACt: 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

126

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Season of Dance Photo by Keith May

2014-2015

Summer Spectacular Works of American Masters

Sat., August 1, 2015 at 7:30pm | Sun., August 2, 2015 at 2:00pm FAU Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts & Letters Theater 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton

Tickets 561.995.0709 available online 24/7 at

www.bocaballet.org Artistic Directors: Dan Guin & Jane Tyree

group rates available

A repertory dance concert featuring international dance stars in George Balanchine’s Serenade, and the comic masterpiece, Con Amore, this concert is sure to entertain and dazzle you!

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Dept. of State, Div. of Cultural Affairs, Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Dept. of State, Div. of Cultural Affairs, Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. Guest Artists subject to change.

backstage pass [ hot list ] “lookingglass alice” When: July 18–Aug. 16 Where: Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami About: Lewis Carroll was not known to be a drug user when he penned “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” in 1865. But the surrealist children’s novel has become the definitive trip of its generation, an ever-shifting haven of mind-altering words and imagery. Yet it’s possible to take this far-out classic about 10 steps further, as Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre Company has achieved with its “Lookingglass Alice,” a lavish kaleidoscope that alternates between tribute and spoof, low comedy and high wisdom, nostalgia and postmodernism. Originally produced in 2005 but improved in 2014, “Lookingglass Alice” is one of those experimental, circus-y playgrounds the Arsht Center presents so well every summer, sending its young heroine down the rabbit hole and onto a giant chess board, where she must reach the eighth square to become queen. Along the way, she swings on hoops, clouds and trapezes; negotiates elaborate scaffolding and trapdoors; and encounters characters even wilder than the creatures of Carroll’s imagination: among them, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum as a hip-hop duo, the White Knight as a clumsy unicyclist, and a Red Queen clad in the most astonishing (and vertical) red dress you’ve ever seen on a stage.

Cost: $55–$75 ContACt: 305/949-6722, arshtcenter.org

128

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

cutline

Boca Ballet theatre’s “summer spectacular” When: Aug. 1–2 Where: University Theatre at FAU, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton About: Ridiculous, meet sublime. Boca Ballet Theatre’s “Summer Spectacular,” a program celebrating the work of American masters, will hit every note along this tonal spectrum. On the more comedic side is Lew Christensen’s “Con Amore,” a 1953 masterpiece set to three effervescent Rossini overtures, which spoofs the outsized passions of opera. In the first scene, a pirate finds himself marooned on an island with sexually rapacious amazon warrior women (not a bad miscalculation); in the second, a flirtatious bride tries to hide three gentlemen callers when her husband arrives unexpectedly; and in the third, a devious cupid connects both plots by shooting arrows at the characters’ derrieres. This gonzo farce will be emotionally leavened by the dancers’ take on Balanchine’s “Serenade,” the great choreographer’s first original ballet created in the U.S. Designed as a lesson in stage technique, the half-hour ballet is defined by its ravishing blue costumes, its tragic interpretation of a Tchaikovsky score, and its allusions to the earlier ballet “Giselle.”

A world-premiere ballet from renowned Philadelphia choreographer Christopher Fleming rounds out this dynamic program.

Cost: $35 adults, $25 seniors and children ContACt: 561/995-0709, bocaballet.org

GET YOUR

Brian Altschuler

TICKETS

Peg Anderson Greenspon

NOW

Elias Janetis

for the “Don’t Miss” charity event of the summer!

Frank McKinney

Holly Meehan

Boca’s Ballroom Battle

Chris Nicho

ls

Benefiting the

Donna Parlapiano

George Snow Scholarship Fund

Wendy Sadusky

Friday, August 28 th at 6pm

Hosted at The Boca Raton Resort & Club sanave Jean-Marc Ca

Pam Casanave

Tickets start at $175, Tables start at $1,750. call (561) 347-6799 or visit www.scholarship.org for more information.

SPONSORED BY Amy and Mike Kazma Marleen Forkas

Bob Gittlin

Molly and Ryan Powers

INGRID FULMER

Mike Kaufman

Shaner Family Foundation

SUsan Whelchel

Margi and Kurtiss Cross

“Wayne White: art is supposed to hypnotize you or something” Where: Art and Culture Center, 1650 Harrison St., Hollywood When: Now through Aug. 23 details: White’s first solo exhibition in Florida will feature a retrospective of his iconic word paintings, some recent tabletop sculptures, and, in celebration of Broward County’s centenary, a supersized head of Napoleon Bonaparte Broward, Florida’s influential governor from 1905-1909. admission: $4–$7 contact: 954/921-3274, artandculturecenter.org

130

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

backstage pass [ SPOTLIGHT ]

Wayne White

In hIs fIrst florIda show, thIs jack of all trades always has the rIght words.

C

reatively, there is very little Wayne White has not done. The Chattanooga native paints. He draws. He animates. He has designed sets, created television characters and voiced them. He’s art-directed clever commercials and award-winning music videos, he creates monumental puppets and the dioramas they inhabit, and he’s a skilled banjoist.

And yet, it’s words that arguably take up the most space in the head of this visual artist: truncated axioms and inside jokes, overheard conversational snippets and repurposed wordplay. For the past 15 years, letters and phrases have been the stock-in-trade of this prolific Californian— musings recorded in a cluttered pocket notebook and then painstakingly painted, in sculpted formations, onto 1960s landscape reproductions purchased at thrift stores. Thus, the words “I Ain’t Crazy” descend like a meteorite into a tranquil pond; the phrase “Beauty is Embarrassin’!” dances in screaming type over a peaceful barn scene; and the text “Date Mate Sate Grate”—White’s pithy evolution of a relationship—washes onto a rocky seashore like divine cargo.

Some of his self-identified “word paintings” could be lifted from a comedy routine (“Enough Hair on My Ass to Weave a Navajo Blanket”). Others are obtuse enough to require some backstory (“My Exudate Lacks Effluvium”). His best-sellers inevitably employ the “F” word or other fourletter perennials you can’t say on television.

“I see myself as a frustrated writer who writes very short stories or poems,” White says via phone, his Southern drawl still charmingly intact. “I consider a lot of what I do concrete poetry, where you literally use the form of the word as an aesthetic—the way it looks on a page or on a picture, the sound it makes, and the incredible mystery of these forms.

Our whole civilization’s based on words, and they’re primal and superpowerful.”

And sometimes they’re virtually inscrutable. In paintings like “Local Whores” and “Emotional Maturity,” the letters are a colliding jumble somewhere between a Rube Goldberg machine and an abstract expressionist sculpture.

“It’s just fun to see how far I can take the letterforms,” he says. “You can always read them, eventually. There’s nothing obscured. Even the most convoluted ones, if you study them long enough, your eye can

float through them and find the letterforms. It’s like a pachinko machine for your eyeball.

“I’m an old-fashioned illusionist,” he adds. “Art is an illusion. If you put something on the wall, it’s either a window or another flat wall. Mine are always windows. I know it’s corny, but that’s why I love the frame, and I love the [landscape] that’s already there. I see it as a stage. And I’ve always loved the simple idea of creating a world I can step into.”

White has been creating these worlds, in one way or another, since he first put pen to paper. After graduating in 1979 with an art degree from Middle Tennessee State University, White relocated to New York City, where he found work as a cartoonist and illustrator for publications ranging from the New York Times to the East Village Eye. He caught his first big break when “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse” hired him to build sets and design puppets for the oddball children’s show; he created characters, voiced them and won three Emmys for his contributions, which led to more children’s television and music videos, including the Smashing Pumpkins’ award-winning sci-fi concept for “Tonight, Tonight.”

But after 20 years in the television and film industry, White found himself overworked, underpaid and addicted to antidepressants; he unplugged from Hollywood and hasn’t returned since. Along the way, he discovered word paintings when he embedded a quirky phrase into one of his own landscape paintings. He soon discovered that it would be easier to paint his ideas directly onto the ubiquitous thrift-stop pastorals he was then buying for their frames.

Lately, White has been returning to his puppeteering roots, rendering figures like Lyndon Johnson and George Jones as giant marionettes with ropes and pulleys and levers. Just as with White’s word paintings, their goal is largely to make audiences laugh—which is not a common objective among his peers.

“I use humor a lot, because I think humor is an undervalued element in the art world,” he says. “The art world is a very stuffy, pretentious place, and humor is an open field in the art world. There’s a certain freedom with it, and it’s probably one of the better ways to communicate.

“Some art puts people in a very uptight position,” he adds. “They feel like they’re back in school, and that’s no fun. You don’t want to be sitting in a desk being lectured to. Art should make you feel alive in the world.” bocamag.com follow the leader

|

131

backstage pass

take5

Matt Corey

SOUnD DeSIGneR/MUSICIAn/PReSIDenT OF InSIGHT FOR THe BLInD

132

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Q1

How did you get involved with Insight for the Blind?

In 2003, the Library of Congress mandated a change to digital technology, and no one here had any inkling how to do that. They brought me on to oversee that transition to Digital Talking Books. We started with two studios, and four others remained analog for probably four years; we were doing both concurrently. Eventually, the whole operation got transitioned over.

Q2

GableStage’s artistic director] had seen my name in the program. He reached out to my dad and said, ‘Do you think your son would want to do that for us?’ My dad said, ‘I was going to recommend him.’ No one talked to me about this! I would have never felt ready to do that.

But he did call, and I very seriously contemplated not doing it; I didn’t feel like I had the experience. But I said, ‘I think I’ll kick myself if I don’t explore this.’ So I did my first show there, “Brooklyn Boy,” and we’ve done every show except one since then.

Q4

Do you need to have a sonorous voice to be a volunteer reader?

What does sound design entail, exactly?

The biggest thing is a talent with reading out loud and not so much your vocal quality. Obviously, if you had a lisp or a wicked New York accent, it would be harder to get through the audition process. But you don’t need a James Earl Jones type for a male, or someone sultry for a female. There’s less of that announcer-y quality that was prevalent in the 1960s and ’70s. Now it’s more of a conversational, pleasant approach.

When you’re getting ready to do a show, like an actor would with his lines, you highlight the telephones and the toilet flushes and thunder. But basically, you’re responsible for everything that comes out of those speakers. So if a show is amplified, if the actors are wearing microphones, that’s going to be on the sound designer to get those sounding good before it becomes the responsibility of the audio technician.

Q3

How did you get into theatrical sound design?

That was a fluke. Meredith Lasher of the Women’s Theatre Project was married to the principal timpanist in the Florida Philharmonic, and he knew that I was into sound stuff and recording, but nothing to do with theater. He said, ‘My wife needs someone to do some sound effects; do you think you can help them out?’ The show was “If We Are Women,” by Joanna Glass, in 2005. There was nothing to it—a ringing phone, a little bit of music off a CD player. It was kind of a freebie; I think I did it for a Lowe’s gift card.

But because I had done that, Joe [Adler,

Q5

In some shows, if we don’t notice the sound design, does that mean you did a good job?

For most shows, that would be awesome.

Sound effects like thunder and explosions and war sounds—anytime you can make the theater rumble a little bit—are fun, because they’re the exception. The ones that are difficult are cell phone rings. When the actor pulls it out of their pocket, you know how it sounds in real life, but to make it happen onstage, where it gets a little bit louder when it comes out … those stress me out. It ends up being a lot more work than explosions.

eduardo schneider

I

t’s Matt Corey’s responsibility to sweat the small stuff.

A faucet drips mercilessly, every few seconds, in the catacombs of a totalitarian prison.

Machine gun fire pierces the air a mile outside a Congolese brothel. Children engage in a heated game of horseshoes just outside of view in a mythical small town. These are the complex soundscapes of South Florida productions of “The Unseen,” “Ruined” and “Our Town,” where the slightest misstep can, briefly or irrevocably, torpedo the theatrical experience as much as any flubbed line or flimsy prop.

But it’s safe to say that with Corey at the helm, the ears of local theatergoers are in capable, awardwinning hands. As the most sought-after sound designer in South Florida regional theater, he’s managed the microphones and engineered the effects for the most respected companies in the tri-county area—GableStage, Mosaic Theatre, Palm Beach Dramaworks, Zoetic Stage, and the list goes on.

The son of Dave Corey, a respected actor and radio broadcaster, Matt nonetheless entered the theater world on a lark, as he explains in this issue’s Take 5. After graduating from the University of Miami with a bachelor’s and master’s in applied music, he thought he’d be performing in symphonies for a living. He spent five-plus years with the Boca Pops until the organization folded. He then moved on to a managerial position with the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra until it, too, folded in 2003.

A week later, another door opened—that of Insight for the Blind, a nonprofit company that records audiobooks and magazines for the Library of Congress’ Talking Books program. Today, Corey heads Insight, an inconspicuous Fort Lauderdale institution that turns 40 this year. Presiding over the operations of its six recording booths, and the 100 volunteer readers who pass through its doors annually, is an undertaking he juggles with his unending stream of theater jobs and his seasonal work as a bassoonist with the Boca Symphonia.

Of all his irons in the fire, he is perhaps proudest of Insight, “an incredible program that I don’t think many people know about until they need it.”

“I try to keep the effects organized—household, industrial, nature, weapons, vehicles/transportation— so I’m not searching like a crazy person. I have two or three external hard drives that I have backed up to Dropbox so I can get to them wherever I can.”

Corey at his home studio

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

133

presents

2015

DELRAY BEACH Wednesday, August 5 & Thursday, August 6

5:30-9:30 p.m. plusge

t three months of exclusive dining deals!

YOU’VE HEARD OF A PUB CRAWL ... HOW ’BOUT A RESTAURANT CRAWL? Visit approximately 18 restaurants in downtown Delray Beach and sample delicious food paired with wine, beer or a cocktail. Buy your dining passport for access to these special tastings and drink pairings, which are available only during the exclusive two-night event. Plus, use it as often as you like for three months (July 1 – Sept. 30) of dining deals before and after the event.

D O W N T O W N D E L R AY B E A C H . C O M / S AV O R - A N D - T A S T E M A K E R S

Proudly Sponsored by:

Benefiting Charity:

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Q: How do I take part in this event?

A: BUY A PASSPORT.*

Q: Where can I park?

Purchase a passport for $30 cash at any of the participating restaurants (while supplies last). $1 from each passport sold will be donated to the Campaign for Grade Level Reading. *The Passport is your ticket to the entire event!

The city’s biggest parking garage is in Pineapple Grove, at the corner of Northeast Second Avenue and Northeast First Street. Parking will be $5. There are many other free parking lots and valet spots throughout downtown.

Check out downtowndelraybeach.com/events for details and maps.

Q: What do I receive?

A: GREAT DELRAY TASTES PLUS THREE MONTHS OF DINING PROMOTIONS Your passport entitles you to complimentary tastings, and wine, beer or cocktails during Tastemakers of Delray, Wednesday, Aug. 5 and Thursday, Aug. 6. In addition, you’ll receive fabulous foodie promotions at participating restaurants starting July 1 and running through Sept. 30.

Q: How do I get around?

A: SHUTTLE SERVICE OR WALK Downtown Delray Beach is a walkable town, and all the restaurants are within 14 blocks. There is also free shuttle service on Atlantic Avenue from First Avenue to the beach with seven convenient stops from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

#TASTEDELRAY

A: PARKING GARAGES

Q: How do I find out more & share this event with a friend?

A: VIA ONLINE OR SOCIAL MEDIA Log onto bocamag.com or downtown delraybeach.com/events to get a complete list of participating restaurants and share the link with your friends and family. You also can check Boca Raton and Delray Beach magazine’s Facebook pages for updates. Remind your friends that passports are limited, so they need to stop by the participating restaurants to purchase them!

Contact the Downtown Development Authority for more information at 561/243-1077.

/DELRAYBEACHMAGAZINE

FROZEN YOGURT & ICE CREAM

Purchase your $30 Passport* at any of these participating Tastemakers restaurants. (cash only) *The Passport is your ticket to the entire event!

El Rey

Floor-to-ceiling windows offering Delray’s most breathtaking ocean views, coupled with chef Blake Malatesta’s delightful seafood-inspired menu await you at 50 Ocean. Indulge your culinary senses, or just enjoy a classic cocktail sitting at the most beautiful bar on the beach!

Quick casual burger joint featuring made-to-order burgers & fries.

Total scratch kitchen, which means everything is made in-house, including fresh-cut fries and hand-breaded onion rings.

Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2014; ZAGAT 2015: “Delicious” Nuevo Latin eats are the draw at this “colorful, vibrant” Delray Beach cantina well served by a “good” staff; festive drinks, including “authentic” mojitos and “thirst-quenching” sangria, “set the scene for a fun evening” including “people-watching” from the sidewalk seats.

BurgerFi Slider

Marinated Skirt-Steak Skewers Topped with Rocoto and Red Onion Salsa

Double Angus Burger, Lettuce, Tomato, BurgerFi Sauce

Coconut Pisco Sour

Anticuchos Shrimp Snow Cone Chilled and Grilled Royal Reds, Smoked Tomato Granita, Lemon-Basil Emulsion

Delray Devil Svedka Jalapeño Grapefruit Vodka, Ripe Agave Sour, Soda, Candied Jalapeños

Not Your Father’s Root Beer

COMPLIMENTARY “JAR”

10% OFF YOUR CHECK*

with the purchase of 2 entrées/ main plates (lunch or dinner).* *Not valid with any other offers;

*Not valid with any other offers; Offer only valid with passport

ONE COMPLIMENTARY BASKET OF MARIQUITAS* (Sliced plantains cooked until crispy, served with garlic mojo and avocado salsa) *Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

offer only valid with passport

50 S. Ocean Blvd.

561/278-3364 50ocean.com

Pisco, the National Spirit of Peru, Blended with Fresh Coconut and a Silky Lime Sour

6 S. Ocean Blvd.

561/278-9590 burgerfi.com

105 E. Atlantic Ave. 561/274-9090 cabanarestaurant.com

Caffé Luna Rosa is the oldest Italian restaurant in Delray Beach. Luna Rosa offers an oceanview dining experience where great food and a great environment come together.

Florida Lobster & Crab Bisque

European style bistro serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Fresh and healthy cuisine with a gourmet Mediterranean flair paired with traditional Italian-style coffee or award-winning craft cocktails.

Mangal BBQ Rib

Homemade Bisque with Fresh Lump Crab and Florida Lobster Tail Meat, Finished with Cream and Sherry

Braised Kosher Beef Back Rib in Mediterannean-Spiced Silan Rub

Rudi Wiest Hooked Riesling

Smoked Whiskey, Laphoaig, Balsamic Vinegar, Aromatic Bitters, Fresh Red Apple

Whiskey Balsamic

At Deck 84, legendary South Florida restaurateur, Burt Rapoport, brings casual waterfront dining to Atlantic Avenue. A stylish American hot spot with picturesque views of the Intracoastal, a hopping bar, weekend brunch & outdoor seating.

Tuna Poke Yellowfin Tuna / Sweet Soy Marinade Toasted Sesame / Avocado / Cucumber Micro Cilantro / Crispy Wonton

Rum Runner w/ Mount Gay Black Barrel Rum Sunday - Thursday

FREE BOTTLE OF WINE*

House choice with 2 entrées or 2 free bottles with 4 entrées *Not valid with any other offers;

KIDS EAT FREE

15% OFF ENTIRE CHECK*

After 5 p.m. | Sunday-Thursday *Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

offer only valid with passport

with adult entrée purchase* Wednesdays

HALF PRICE BOTTLES OF WINE with entrée purchase* *Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

34 S. Ocean Blvd.

561/274-9404 caffelunarosa.com

411 E Atlantic Ave. 561/450-6169 caffemartierdelray.com

840 E. Atlantic Ave. 561/665-8484 deck84.com

At El Camino, we are committed to offering the freshest organic and local ingredients, and we value local, artisan, indigenous and reclaimed offerings.We make our own tortillas, sauces and anything else possible from scratch. Our craft cocktails include house-made sangrias and agave spirits.

FROZEN YOGURT & ICE CREAM We offer the most delicious frozen desserts to satisfy any sweet tooth, and we have something for the entire family. Our creamy frozen yogurts come in fat-free, low-fat, dairy-free, no-sugar-added, and sugar-free varieties.We also carries a variety of Italian gelato, over 20 flavors of ice cream and Dole soft-serve sorbet. FY&I is located at the Pineapple Grove Archway between El Camino and the Office restaurant.

Lemongrass Delray Beach has been the place to go for Thai, Japanese sushi and Vietnamese cuisine since opening. All rolls and dishes are made to order. The notable wine and sake list provides the perfect pairing to any entrée.

Barbacoa Taco Cilantro, Queso Fresco, Onions & Salsa Borracha

Asian Shrimp Ceviche

50/50

Shrimp, Avocado, Cilantro, Jalapeños, Tomatoes, Onions, Asian Lime Dressing

Best of Both Worlds: Mezcal, Blanco Tequila, Fresh Lime & Agave Nectar

FREE GUACAMOLE

Frozen Yogurt Froyo in Fat-Free, Low-Fat, Sugar-Free, No-Sugar-Added and Dairy-Free Varieties • Premium Ice Cream • Italian Gelato Sorbet • No-Sugar-Added Cookies **Kosher

Cool Sake Martini ONE FREE HOT SAKE

with purchase of any Burrito, Enchilada, Fajita, or Taco Entrée.*

$1 OFF MEDIUM FRO-YO*

with purchase of $20 or more*

*Not valid with any other offers;

*Not valid with any other offers;

offer only valid with passport

offer only valid with passport

15 N.E. Second Ave. 561/865-5350 elcaminodelray.com

*Not valid with any other offers;

offer only valid with passport

9 N.E. Second Ave. 561/450-7402 fyidelray.com

420 E.Atlantic Ave. 561/278-5050 lemongrassasianbistro.com

Mastino at

Mastino at SoLita offers the traditions of Old World artisans who handcrafted wood-fired pizza, Italian street food, artisan smallbatch beer, culinary cocktails and boutique wines. SoLita offers guests a place to call home with a unique experience that embraces casual comfort and sophistication.

SoLita Signature Housemade Meatball Served with San Marzano Tomato Sauce, Fresh Basil and Ricotta Cheese

Housemade Italian Sangria A Delicious Variety of Red Wines, Fresh Strawberries, Oranges, Pineapple and Blueberries, Mixed with a Variety of Flavorful Fruit Liqueurs

Food tastes naturally delicious when grown with care, harvested at precisely the right moment and delivered to our kitchen directly from the source. Fresh ingredients are a delight to the senses and the essence of great cooking.We hope you enjoy the sheer pleasure of seasonal, locally-grown ingredients and the simple, sophisticated flavors that result when you let the land speak for itself.

Florida Alligator Milanese Peach Mostarda / N’Duja Vinaigrette

Oaxacan Mistress Illegal Mezcal / Ancho Reyes liqueur Local Tangerine / Smoked Jalapeño Cilantro

25% OFF YOUR ENTIRE LUNCH ORDER*

1O% OFF ENTIRE CHECK*

Lunch served on Fridays only from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

*Not valid on holidays or with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

*Not valid with any other offers;

25 N.E. Second Ave. 561/921-8687 solitaitalian.com

169 N.E. Second Ave. 561/381-9970 maxsharvest.com

Mellow Mushroom is an eclectic, music-themed restaurant serving gluten-free & hand-tossed pizzas, salads, sandwiches, vegan and vegetarian menu items.We have Sunday brunch, the best craft cocktail drinks around and trivia every Tuesday night.We are the host site in Palm Beach County for FSU football games.

Kosmic Karma Pizza Slice Red Sauce Base with Feta and Mozzarella Cheeses, Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Roma Tomatoes with a Pesto Swirl.

Craft Beer Sample of Saltwater Brewery’s Screamin Reels IPA

15% OFF ENTIRE CHECK* *Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

offer only valid with passport

25 S.E. Sixth Ave. 561/330-3040 mellowmushroom.com

Home of 14 different flavors of mussels, imported daily from Prince Edward Island. Offering a variety of flavors—from creamy lobster bisque and spicy Fra Diavolo to Thai curry and many more— that will have guests demanding a second round. Mussel Beach also serves a variety of non-seafood dishes to satisfy your palate.

Mussel Mariniere Shallots, Garlic, Onion, White Wine, Butter

Benvolio Pinot Grigio

“The Office” is a modern American gastropub, a place that is comfortable and where the food is as important as the drink.

It's not quite a bar, not quite a restaurant. The Office features a casual-meets-refined atmosphere that welcomes beer drinkers and wine snobs, non-fussy eaters, and foodies alike. The Office is a charmed neighborhood watering hole.

Fried Green Tomato “B.L.T.” Tomato Jam, Crispy Pork Belly, Saint Andreas Cheese, Frisee

Islamorada Sandbar Sunday Craft American Wheat Ale

15% OFF ENTIRE CHECK* *Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

501 E. Atlantic Ave. 561/921-6464 musselbeachrestaurant.com

15% OFF ENTIRE CHECK* *Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

201 E. Atlantic Ave. 561/276-3600 theofficedelray.com

Smoke BBQ (eatbbqnow.com), features authentic Kansas Citystyle, smokehouse BBQ—low and slow-smoked meats, including the best ribs in South Florida. Smoke features affordable entrée selections, a cool, casual “American backyard” design, a large craft beer selection, exceptional happy hour promotions, and a pitmaster whose BBQ credentials are world-renowned.

12-Hour Smoked Pulled Pork Slider Boulevard Brewing 80-Acre Hoppy Wheat Beer 20% OFF ENTIRE CHECK* *Excludes happy hour and lunch specials; Limited to four guests per table; Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport.

8 E. Atlantic Ave. 561/330-4236 eatbbqnow.com

Taverna pa

Taverna Opa offers an unforgettable dining experience, with an inviting decor, superb ambience and spectacular Greek tastes. Our chef’s equally impressive authentic Greek and Mediterranean menu features fresh fish, grilled meats and vegetarian dishes complemented by an extensive wine collection.We offer such components as group dining, customized menus, and indoor and outdoor dining.

&

Angelo's

Vic and Angelo’s Coal Oven Enoteca is big-city rustic Italian dining in the heart of South Florida.With two convenient locations, “Restaurant Row” in Palm Beach Gardens and trendy Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, the best Italian in Florida is just around the corner.

Ziree Thai & Sushi serves authentic Thai food and the freshest sushi; many of the dishes are family recipes handed down through generations. Everything is prepared with the freshest ingredients of the highest quality all at reasonable prices.

This, along with our excellent service, will make for a truly delicious and unique dining experience.

Rigatoni Alla Bolognese Keftedes (Meatballs), Spanakopita (Spinach Pie), & Bougatsa (Dessert) Kretikos

Slow-Cooked Beef Ragu, Chianti, Hand-Shaved Reggiano

Sycamore Lane Pinot Noir

Housemade Sangria

(Greek Red Wine)

ONE COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF KRETIKOS

with purchse of lunch or dinner* *Not valid with any other offers;

Pookpui Salad Shredded Green Papaya, Carrot, Shrimp, Green Bean, Cherry Tomatoes + Sushi Roll Pairing

$69.95 DINNER FOR TWO

with a bottle of house wine* *Not valid with any other offers;

15% OFF ENTIRE CHECK*

offer only valid with passport

*Dine-in only; Not valid with any other offers; offer only valid with passport

290 E. Atlantic Ave. 561/870-1365 vicandangelos.com

401 W. Atlantic Ave. 561/276-6549 zireethaisushi.com

offer only valid with passport

270 E. Atlantic Ave. 561/303-3602 tavernaopa.com

Discover Palm Beach County’s Newest Luxury Catering Team Max’s culinary genius has paired with Hansen’s impeccable style and event planning expertise.

Our combined team can cater dozens of preferred venues—or private residences for parties of 30 to 3,000.

Dennis Max – Award-winning Restaurateur; Max’s Grille, Max’s Harvest, Max’s SOHO Bill Hansen Catering – 2015 Caterer of the Year; BizBash Florida Readers Choice Awards

Contact Honey Ackermann | 561-756-9474 | honey@themaxgroup.com

diningguide [ 144 max’s social house review • 146 la ferme review • 152 the boca challenge • 166 deconstructing the dish ]

for starters tavern room

The Wick Theatre, 7901 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, 561/995-2333

Y

William Walden

inside the room

ou may not have heard about the Tavern Room at The Wick Theatre, but William Walden intends to change all that.

A veteran chef with a gold-plated pedigree (working with Michelin-starred chefs and running his own multi-starred restaurants isn’t the half of it), Walden took over The Wick’s food and beverage operations in February looking to transform the theater’s Tavern-on-the-Green-themed dining room from a pleasant spot for a modest meal to an elegant, sophisticated outpost of “French cuisine with a modern American flair.”

The self-described Francophile and kitchen taskmaster had his work cut out for him. Moving into a kitchen that at the time was equipped with little more than a hot plate, he assembled a staff and turned his guidedmissile-like focus on the tiniest of details. At first, Walden’s classically oriented, artistically presented dishes were available only to theater patrons, but the chef prevailed upon theater founder and CEO Marilynn Wick to bring his talents to a wider audience.

So if you haven’t heard of the Tavern Room at The Wick Theatre already … well, you certainly will soon.

—Bill Citara

About: The Tavern Room can hold up to 60 people; when plays are running, there is dining available on matinee days (Wednesday and Sunday), after the show on Thursday through Saturday, and before the show starting at 5 p.m.

DiD You Know?

Chef William Walden was an event “captain” during the inaugural festivities for President Obama. website: thewick. org/dining/php

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

143

dining guide review Organic king salmon with cauliflower couscous

max’s social house 116 N.E. Sixth Ave., Delray Beach, 561/501-4332

T

Behind the bar at Social House

144

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

IF YOU GO PRICES: Entrées $12–$27 HOURS: Sun.–Thurs. 5:30–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 5:30–11 p.m.

WEBSITE: sohodelray.com

But wait, there’s more. Like a Wagyu beef haute dog that nods at Asian food truck pups with Sriracha aioli, sliced jalapeños and crispy

onion strings. Or a thick, juicy burger that delivers the kind of steak-like flavor to which all burgers should aspire.

There are bigger plates and more elegant plates too. Mushroom flan, for example, is a silken custard with deep, earthy mushroom flavor, dabbed with ricotta and crowned with a nest of peppery arugula dressed with a dusky truffle vinaigrette. The braised short rib would be worth ordering just to get at its accompanying mac-n-cheese, but then you would miss out on meat with enough intensely beefy character to make vegetarians weep and so stupid-tender that you hardly need gums, let alone teeth.

Sugar-dusted donuts filled with berry compote? Don’t want to miss that. Banana cream pie served in a mason jar? You want them to make it in a gallon bucket so you never have to stop eating.

This baby’s a keeper.

—Bill Citara

aaron Bristol

he old Falcon House has been reborn more often than a Holy Roller in a maternity ward. Funky local watering hole, Italian restaurant, wannabe gastropub, Spanish-esque tapas bar. It seems no matter what concept is shoehorned into Walter Falcon’s 90-year-old former residence it will burn brightly for a while and then flame out.

Now it’s Dennis Max’s turn, and while nothing is certain in the wild-n-wacky restaurant world, this time the concept may stick around.

It’s built on the very Max-ian “farm-to-fork” ethos, the ever-increasing popularity of small plates, and the boom in artisan cocktails and craft suds, all shaken together with a hip, urban vibe especially appealing to diners young enough to party heartily at night and then get up the next morning without feeling like they’ve been run over by a speeding semi.

In fact, a lot of Social’s dishes are ideal evening-of-the-day-after fare. Like thick, creamy pimento cheese, studded with bits of red pepper and presented in a crock with pickled tomatoes and crostini. Or locally made burrata that oozes milky luxury when pierced with a fork and arrives tricked out with multicolored heirloom tomatoes, arugula and sweet-tart vin cotto.

“IF YOU M A K E GR E AT i ta l i a n FOOD T H E Y W IL L COM E ” Offering Complimentary Transportation To & From Area Hotels Open For Dinner Nightly Private Rooms Available for Parties of 6–45 499 East Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton • 561-393-6715 www.trattoriaromanabocaraton.com

dining guide

review

Inset: Gougères at La Ferme

la ferme

9101 Lakeridge Blvd., Boca Raton, 561/654-6600

C

What’s in a Name?

“La Ferme” means “the farm” in French, and while the restaurant styles itself as Mediterranean, outside of a few Asian and Italian-inflected dishes, at its heart it’s as Gaullic as the Eiffel Tower. It’s the creation of Bobby, Laura and Alexandra Shapiro, past and present proprietors of several spots in New York and beyond, who last year took over Bistro Gastronomie and turned it into an elegant yet comfortable restaurant that will make you forget its obscure location in west Boca.

146

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

IF YOU GO PRICES: Entrées $29–$35 HOURS: Mon. 5:30–10 p.m., Tues.–Thurs.

5:30–11 p.m., Fri. 5:30–11:30 p.m., Sat. 5–11:30 p.m., Sun. 5–10 p.m.

WEBSITE: laferme.kitchen

again drives right up to the line of perfection, halted only by a vinaigrette that lacked enough vinegar punch to cut through the richness of the egg and bacon.

No complaints about a mild-tasting fillet of Faroe Island salmon, its golden, crispy exterior given way to flesh cooked a precise mediumrare, with none of the greasy-fishy flavor of lesser-quality farmed salmon. It was smartly plated with a well-balanced sweet-tart-salty agrodolce sauce that combined tomatoes, sultana raisins and olives.

Cassoulet at La Ferme is one dish that should be on every foodie’s bucket list, so richly, deeply savory you could taste it in your toes. When sent back to the kitchen for reheating it was even better. Beneath a breadcrumb crust lurked a joyously tender, fat-infused leg of duck confit, slabs of smoky ham and coins of suave, garlicky sausage, all bound together by white beans so soft and creamy they were like little pillows of starchy wonderfulness.

Desserts aren’t to die for but rather to live for. Old-fashioned chocolate fudge cake is like a wedge of bracingly intense bittersweet chocolate mousse festooned with white and dark chocolate chips and a puddle of crème anglaise. La Ferme’s deceptively rich pineapple upside-down cake is crowned with a disc of sweet-tart pineapple with over-the-top garnishes of wafer-like vanilla tuilles, caramel sauce and orange-spiked whipped cream. It’s a classic in its own right. And so is La Ferme.

—Bill Citara

aaron Bristol

lassics are classic for a reason. The cool sophistication of a little black dress. The swooping, organic lines of a Porsche 911. The universal themes of “Citizen Kane.”

It’s a combination of style and panache and refinement, of form wedded artfully to function, of a difficult-to-attain, almost Zen-like simplicity that makes something seem fresh and timeless in an age when trends have the half-life of bacteria.

French cuisine—and the type of restaurant that serves it—can be classic too when done right. The chef deals in dishes that have evolved over hundreds of years; the meals are served by people who take the same care in their presentation as the kitchen takes in its preparation.

Which is as good a way as any to describe La Ferme. True, some dishes could use a little tweaking, but that would only be minor steps to elevate the very good to the truly extraordinary.

Gougères, for example. These airy little baked thumbnails of a stiff dough called pâte à choux are here infused with Gruyère and piped with béchamel; they’re as delicious as they are unlikely to be found on local restaurant menus.

If only they were really filled with béchamel rather than just barely moistened.

La Ferme’s take on salad Lyonnaise, a brilliantly contrapuntal mélange of faintly bitter frisée, molten poached egg, smoky-crunchy bits of bacon and a tart mustard vinaigrette

561.392.0773 | 233 S. Federal Highway | Boca Raton, FL 33432 matteosrestaurants.com

dining guide Dining Key

$ Inexpensive: Under $17 $$ Moderate: $18–$35 $$$ Expensive: $36–$50 $$$$ Very Expensive: $50 +

n ext sta r sau r a n ts st to r e h e gu ide: n in t rato B o c a l l of Ha r e m fa

palm beach county boca raton 13 american table —451 E. Palmetto

night music

Boca Landing, the city’s only waterfront restaurant, also has music Wednesday, thursday and Saturday nights. check out David Fernando’s Latin sound on Saturdays.

Park Road. contemporary american. This cozy, artfully rustic spot is one of the few restaurants in the U.S. that has a Josper oven, a pricy, charcoal-fired grill-oven hybrid that cooks foods quickly at high heat to retain maximum flavor and texture. It works like a charm on chicken, resulting in remarkably crisp skin and tender meat, as well as on fist-sized shrimp you can customize with one of several sauces.

Don’t miss feather-light profiteroles filled with caramel and pumpkin mousse. • Dinner Tues.– Sat. 561/409-2061. $$

abe & louie’s —2200 W. Glades Road.

Steaks. This outpost of the Boston steak house cooks up slabs of well-aged, USDA Prime beef like nobody’s business. Two of the best are the bone-in ribeye and New York sirloin. Start with a crab cocktail, but don’t neglect side dishes like steamed spinach and hash browns.

• Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. Brunch Sun. 561/447-0024. $$$

arturo’s ristorante—6750 N. Federal Highway. Italian. Arturo’s quiet, comfortable dining room; slightly formal, rigorously professional service; and carefully crafted Italian dishes never go out of style. You’ll be tempted to make a meal of the array of delectable antipasti from the antipasti cart, but try to leave room for main courses like giant shrimp with tomatoes, cannellini beans, rosemary and an exceptionally well-done risotto. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. 561/997-7373. $$$

biergarten—309 Via De Palmas, #90. German/pub. Part vaguely German beer garden, part all-American sports bar, this rustic eatery offers menus that channel both, as well as an excellent selection of two-dozen beers on tap

148

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

and the same number by the bottle. The food is basic and designed to go well with suds, like the giant pretzel with a trio of dipping sauces and the popular “Biergarten burger.” • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/395-7462. $

• Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. Brunch Sat.– Sun. 561/392-3777. (Other Palm Beach County locations: The Gardens Mall, 3101 PGA Blvd., 561/622-0491; CityPlace, 550 S. Rosemary Ave., 561/835-1511) $$

bistro provence—2399 N. Federal Highway. French. With the convivial ambience and hearty good food of an authentic Parisian bistro, this inviting, unpretentious restaurant deserves its local popularity. Mussels are a specialty, and roasted duck is excellent too. • Dinner nightly.

561/368-2340. $$

butcher block grill—7000 W. Camino Real, #100. Steak house/contemporary american. This casual steak house with a Mediterranean twist and a local, seasonal, sustainable ethos gives the stuffy old-fashioned meatery a swift kick in the sirloin. Beef here is all-natural and grass-fed, delivering big, rich, earthy flavor; the New York strip is 12 ounces of carnivorous pleasure. Seafood, whether raw (tuna crudo) or simply grilled (wild-caught salmon), is palatepleasing as well. Don’t miss the fresh mozzarella, made and assembled into a salad at your table. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/409-3035. $$$

boca landing—999 E. Camino Real. contemporary american. No Hollywood celebrity has gotten a better face-lift than Boca’s aging Bridge Hotel, now the sleek, contemporary Waterstone Resort & Marina. The hotel’s new signature restaurant, Boca Landing, is equally stunning, showing off its prime waterfront location and views. The mostly small-plates menu features Asian-inflected tuna tartare, green curry mussels and fried calamari. Probably the best dish, though, is the thoroughly continental filet mignon with crab and béarnaise, with wickedly luscious house-made hazelnut gelato coming in a very close second.

• Dinner daily. 561/368-9500. $$ bonefish grill—21069 Powerline Road.

Seafood. Market-fresh seafood is the cornerstone—like Chilean sea bass prepared over a wood-burning grill and served with sweet Rhea’s topping (crabmeat, sautéed spinach and a signature lime, tomato and garlic sauce.) • Dinner nightly. 561/483-4949. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 1880 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach, 561/732-9142; 9897 Lake Worth Road, Lake Worth, 561/965-2663; 11658 U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, 561/799-2965) $$ brio tuscan grille—5050 Town Center Circle, #239. Italian. The Boca outpost of this national chain does what it set out to do—dish up big portions of well-made, easily accessible Italian-esque fare at a reasonable price. If you’re looking for bruschetta piled with fresh cheeses and vegetables or house-made fettuccine with tender shrimp and lobster in a spicy lobster butter sauce, you’ll be one happy diner.

the capital grille—6000 Glades Road.

Steaks. This is one of more than three dozen restaurants in a national chain, but the Boca Grille treats you like a regular at your neighborhood restaurant. Steaks, dry-aged if not Prime, are flavorful and cooked with precision, while starters from Wagyu beef carpaccio to a lighter version of the hardy chopped salad are nicely done too.

Parmesan truffle fries are crispy sticks of potato heaven; chocolate-espresso cake a study in shameless, and luscious, decadence. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. 561/368-1077. $$$

casa d’angelo —171 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. Angelo Elia’s impeccable Italian restaurant is a delight, from the stylish room to the suave service to the expansive wine list, not to mention food that’s by turn elegant, hearty, bold, subtle and always delicious. Dishes off the regular menu make excellent choices, like char-grilled jumbo prawns with artichoke, arugula, lemon and olive oil. But pay attention to specials like pan-seared snapper and scallops in a spicy, garlicky cherry tomato sauce. • Dinner nightly. 561/338-1703. $$$ the cheesecake factory—5530 Glades Road. american. Oh, the choices! The chain even has a Sunday brunch menu in addition to its main menu, which includes Chinese chicken salad and Cajun jambalaya. Don’t forget about

Parlez-vous Franรงais?

located in the 5 Palms Building

we offer Complimentary Transportation To & From Area Hotels

455 E. Palmetto Park Rd., Boca Raton (561) 338-3003 | LNMbocaraton.com

Private Rooms Available for Large Parties

open for dinner nightly A French Restaurant

dining guide Never Better

The clean California cuisine influence at Houston’s never disappoints; where else is a grilled artichoke a menu staple?

the cheesecakes—from white chocolate and raspberry truffle offerings. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/393-0344. (Other Palm Beach County locations: CityPlace, West Palm Beach, 561/8023838; Downtown at the Gardens, Palm Beach Gardens, 561/776-3711) $$

chops lobster bar—101 Plaza Real S., Royal Palm Place. Steak, seafood. Steaks are aged USDA Prime—tender, flavorful and perfectly cooked under a 1,700-degree broiler.

There’s all manner of fish and shellfish, but you’re here for the lobster, whether giant Australian tails flash-fried and served with drawn butter or sizable Maine specimens stuffed with crab. • Dinner nightly. 561/395-2675. $$$$

cuban café —3350 N.W. Boca Raton Blvd.

Cuban. Diners pack this traditional Cuban restaurant for lunch specials that start at $7.95, including slow-roasted pork served with white rice and black beans. Other highlights include the Cuban sandwich and (on the dinner menu only) lechón asado. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/750-8860. $

davinci’s of boca—6000 Glades Road.

Italian. Expect carefully prepared Italian fare that will satisfy both traditionalists and the more adventurous. The former will like crisp, greaseless fried calamari and hearty lasagna made with fresh pasta. The latter will enjoy creamy burrata with prosciutto, tomato jam and arugula and a Nobu-esque ginger-miso glazed sea bass. • Lunch and dinner daily.

561/362-8466. $$ dorsia—5837 N. Federal Highway. Continental.

The simple pleasures of the table—good food, personable service, comfortable ambience—are what this modestly stylish restaurant is all about.

The menu has a strong Italian bent, evidenced by dishes like a trio of fried zucchini blossoms stuffed with an airy three-cheese mousse, and a cookbook-perfect rendition of veal scaloppine lavished with artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes and a tangy lemon-white wine sauce. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/961-4156. $$ farmer’s table —1901 N. Military Trail.

American. Fresh, natural, sustainable, organic and local is the mantra at this both tasty and health-conscious offering from Mitchell Robbins and Joey Giannuzzi. Menu highlights include flatbreads, slow-braised USDA Prime short rib and the popular Buddha Bowl, with veggies, udon noodles and shrimp. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/417-5836. $

grand lux cafe —Town Center at Boca Raton. American. The Cheesecake Factory’s sister brand is an upscale take on the original formula, with an atmosphere inspired by the great cafes of Europe. The menu offers a range of international flavors, and the specialty baked-to-order desserts are always a big hit. • Lunch and dinner daily; breakfast on Saturday and Sunday. 561/392-2141. $$ the grille on congress—5101 Congress Ave. American. Dishes at this longtime favorite range from tasty chicken dishes and main-plate

150

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

salads to seafood options like pistachio-crusted snapper or simply grilled yellowfin tuna. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/912-9800. $$

Buzz Bites i

houston’s—1900 N.W. Executive Center Circle. American. With rustic features like butcher-block tables and comfy padded leather booths, Houston’s has created a “nonchain” feel, although there are more than 40 nationwide. It’s one of the hottest lunch spots in town, hosting business types and power shoppers. The menu is straightforward—big burgers on sweet egg buns, Caesar salad, roasted chicken, filet mignon—but it’s not lacking in ingenuity. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/998-0550. $$

josef’s table —5030 Champion Blvd.

Continental. Josef’s touts itself as offering “the slightest dash of nostalgia,” and that’s a good thing. Though the kitchen does have a timid hand with sauces and seasonings, there’s no quibbling about the execution, whether a light, refreshing “tower” of lump crabmeat with mango, cucumber and tomato; rosy-rare double-cut lamb chops with port wine-mint sauce; pan-seared hogfish with orange beurre blanc; or the richly decadent half-moon chocolate tart. • Dinner daily. 561/353-2700. $$$ josephine’s —5751 N. Federal Highway.

Italian. Tradition trumps trendy, and comfort outweighs chic at this Boca favorite. The ambience is quiet and stately but not stuffy, and the menu is full of hearty dishes to soothe the savage appetite, like three-cheese eggplant rollatini and chicken scarpariello. • Dinner nightly. 561/988-0668. $$

kapow noodle bar—431 Plaza Real.

Pan-Asian. This wickedly stylish Asian-inspired gastropub delivers a delicious and inventive punch to the taste buds. Among the hardest hitters are green tea-cured salmon with micro and fried basil and longan berries stuffed with yuzu kosho gelee, and cheesecake springrolls with a banana caramel dipping sauce. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/347-7322. $ kathy’s gazebo café —4199 N. Federal Highway. Continental. This local stalwart smoothly rolls along with its signature blend of French and Continental dishes. The ornate, formal dining room and equally formal service are anomalies these days but are comforting nonetheless. Classic dishes like creamy lobster bisque, house-made duck paté, broiled salmon with sauce béarnaise and dreamy chocolate mousse are as satisfying as ever. • Lunch Mon.– Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/395-6033. $$$

The RoosTeR CRows: No collard greens are growing under gary Rack’s feet as the ever-busy restaurateur adds a pudgy fowl—aka, Fat Rooster (204 E. Atlantic Ave., 561/2663642)—to his arsenal. This casual purveyor of down-home Southern cooking is in the spot once home to Linda Bean’s Perfect Lobster.

The petite dining room has been given a rustic makeover, with hardwood floors, a plank ceiling hung with Edison light bulb chandeliers, a handful of tables and booths and a large U-shaped bar.

There’s also lots of outdoor seating.

Rack Restaurant Group exec chef matt Danaher’s menu is a tour through iconic dishes of the South, from fried chickenn-waffles with whiskey-infused honey to shrimp-n-grits and short rib meatloaf with collard greens and smoked tomato gravy. There’s also fried green tomatoes, pickled watermelon rind and everyone’s favorite, green bean casserole.

The Rooster doesn’t sleep much either, crowing for breakfast, lunch and dinner during the week, as well as brunch and dinner on weekends. Night owls can hang out till the wee hours and munch on dishes from a special late-night menu. Oh, and lots to drink too from a roster of wines, craft beers and specialty cocktails, including a modern take on the traditional New Orleans Sazerac and a “Sweet Tea” that’s definitely for grownups.

—bill citaRa

ke’e grill—17940 N. Military Trail.

American. The attraction here is carefully prepared food that is satisfying, flavorful and reasonably priced. The fist-sized crab cake is a good place to start, followed by sea bass with a soy-ginger-sesame glaze. • Dinner nightly.

561/995-5044. $$$

la nouvelle maison—455 E. Palmetto Park Blvd. French. Elegant, sophisticated French cuisine, white-glove service and a trio of (differently) stylish dining rooms make Ar-

turo Gismondi’s homage to the Boca’s storied La Vieille Maison the home away from home to anyone who appreciates the fine points of fine dining. The cuisine showcases both first-rate ingredients and precise execution, whether a generous slab of silken foie gras with plum gastrique, posh lobster salad, cookbookperfect rendition of steak frites and assortment of desserts that range from homey apple tart to exquisite chocolate-raspberry souffle. • Dinner daily. 561/338-3003. $$$

The Office is a modern American gastropub that serves delicious, gourmet comfort food, in a setting reminiscent of a luxurious home office. Menu favorites include an array of juicy burgers, inventive salads, swell sandwiches, wonderful appetizers, mouthwatering seafood, chicken and beef entrees.

Vic & Angelo’s serves up delectable, rustic Italian cuisine, including soulsatisfying house-made pastas, crispy, thin-crust pizzas, refreshing salads, fresh fish and seafood, and enticing veal and chicken dishes, in a warm and welcoming setting.

• Lunch & Dinner Served Daily • Early & Late Happy Hour at Indoor & Outdoor Bars • Dine Indoors or on the Patio

• Lunch & Dinner Served Daily • Early & Late Happy Hour at Indoor & Outdoor Bars • Brunch Served Saturday & Sunday • Indoor and Outdoor Dining

201 E. Atlantic Ave. • Delray Beach • 561-276-3600 theofficedelray.com

290 E. Atlantic Ave. • Delray Beach • 561-278-9570 4520 PGA Blvd. • Palm Beach Gardens • 561-630-9899 vicandangelos.com

dining guide Brisket from Smoke BBQ that’s so good you’ll want to marry it

the boca challenge

barbecue brisket

B

risket is the Holy Grail of barbecue.

Sure, ribs are more popular. Pulled pork is easier. Chicken is cheaper.

But when brisket is done right, which is to say smoked-cooked over aromatic woods at something around 225 degrees for a dozen to 15 hours (or more) until the shoe leather-tough meat becomes as relaxed as a snowbird on the beach … well, there’s no rib, pork shoulder or yard bird on the planet that attains quite the same level of barbecue nirvana.

So we went looking for some killer brisket. Which, as you might have guessed given the time, effort and expertise required, is easier than it sounds. But we persevered (rough work, I know) and were happy (and stuffed) with the results.

Barbecuing brisket is a fairly simple but exacting process, so judging criteria were simple and exacting too: taste, texture and value, averaged to give a final score. In the religion that is barbecue, you can’t beat the Holy Grail.

—bill citara

taste

texture

value

tOtal

the dish

shane’s rib shack

We were pleasantly surprised by the brisket at this 12-state barbecue chain. It had the texture of meat cooked low-n-slow, good beefy flavor with the right amount of smoke; while not the biggest portion, it was an excellent value at $7.99.

smOke bbq

Perhaps barbecued brisket can be better than this, but I haven’t tasted it. No surprise, as world-class pit master Bryan Tyrell smokes these hunks of meaty heaven for 16 hours. Incomparable flavor and texture; even the fat is succulent. Expensive at $22 but worth every penny.

vOOdOO bbq

Perhaps voodoo explains the bad spell cast on this disappointing offering. A heavy spice rub obscured the flavor of the meat, which had an unpleasantly rubbery texture that suggested boiling rather than smoke-cooking. Nothing about it says real barbecue. $10.99.

ratings:

fair

good

Shane’s Rib Shack: 2240 N.W. 19th St., Boca Raton, 561/392-7002

152

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

very good

Smoke bbQ: 8 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561/330-4236

excellent

VooDoo bbQ: 5030 Champion Blvd., Boca Raton, 561/923-9779

Burger & Brew Mondays Burger, beer & fries

Only $13!

(Available ALL Night!)

Taco Tuesdays

Wine Down Wednesdays

$3 Tacos

$13 Bottomless Wine

$7 Tequila

1/2 Off All Bottles

(Bar Only)

(Entire Restaurant)

(5pm-7pm Bar Only)

(All Night, Entire Restaurant)

451 E. Palmetto Park Rd. 路 Boca Raton 路 561-409-2061 Open Daily at 5pm

FOOD & DRINK FOR ALL! Find us on Facebook Badge

CMYK / .ai

@13AmericanTable

Same owners as

#13AmericanTable

dining guide York grill and bar.” What Madison’s has going for it is an exceedingly handsome and capacious space, as well as service that is as professional as it is personable. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/994-0808. $$

steak-house classics like oysters Rockefeller, garlicky spinach and crusty hash browns. • Dinner daily. 561/998-3881. $$$$

maggiano’s —21090 St. Andrews Blvd.

Naples (thin, blistered crust, judicious toppings) with Connecticut (fresh clams and no tomato sauce), and you’ve got a pretty good idea of the pies coming out Nick Laudano’s custom-made ovens. The “white clam” pizza with garlic and bacon is killer-good; Caesar salad and tiramisu are much better than the usual pizzeria fare. • Lunch and dinner daily.

561/368-2900. $

crisTina Morgado

Italian. Do as the Italians do and order familystyle, sit back and watch the endless amounts of gorgeous foods grace your table. In this manner, you receive two appetizers, two salads, two pastas, two entrées, two vegetables and two desserts. • Lunch and dinner daily.

561/361-8244. $$

Mario’s Osteria

la rosa nautica—515 N.E. 20th St. Peruvian. Expect no ambience, no pretensions, low prices and food that satisfies on a very high level. Good starters include antichuchos, chunks of grilled beef heart, and causa, a terrine-like layering of mashed potatoes and chicken salad. Ceviche and the lomo saltado are among the best in South Florida. • Lunch daily.

Dinner Tues.– Sun. 561/296-1413. $$ la tre —249 E. Palmetto Park Road. Vietnamese. For almost two decades, this elegant little spot has been celebrating the delicate, sophisticated flavors and textures of traditional and contemporary Vietnamese cuisine. A house signature, shrimp tossed with coriander curry pesto, is an inspired riff on Vietnamese classics.

Service and wines match the refinement of the cuisine. • Dinner nightly. 561/392-4568. $$

Hungry for Power

The Power Hour at Morton’s at 6:30 p.m., and again from 9 p.m. to closing, offers discounted drinks and bar bites that include baby cheeseburgers.

la villetta—4351 N. Federal Highway. Italian. This is a well-edited version of a traditional Italian menu, complete with homemade pastas and other classic dishes. Try the signature whole yellowtail snapper encrusted in sea salt; it’s de-boned right at tableside. Shrimp diavolo is perfectly scrumptious. • Dinner nightly. (closed Mon. during summer). 561/362-8403. $$ le rivage —450 N.E. 20th St. French. Don’t overlook this small, unassuming bastion of traditional French cookery. That would be a mistake, because the dishes that virtually scream “creativity” can’t compare to the quiet pleasures served here—like cool, soothing vichyssoise, delicate fillet of sole with nutty brown butter sauce or perfectly executed crème brûlee. Good food presented without artifice at a fair price never goes out of fashion. • Lunch Tues.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/620-0033. $$

madison’s —2006 N.W. Executive Center Circle. American. This location is something of a Bermuda Triangle for restaurants, with at least four eateries preceding this local outpost of a Canadian chain that styles itself a “New

154

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

mario’s osteria—1400 Glades Road.

Italian. This popular spot is swanky in its reincarnation, but the rustic Italian and ItalianAmerican fare keeps with an osteria’s humbler pretensions. Signature dishes like the garlic rolls, lasagna and eggplant “pancakes” are on the new menu, as are posh veal osso buco ravioli in truffle cream sauce and thick, juicy rib-eye served “arrabiata” style. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/239-7000. $$ matteo’s —233 S. Federal Highway. Italian.

Hearty Italian and Italian-American food, served in giant “family style” portions, needs no reinventing. Though there is no shortage of local restaurants cooking in that genre, it’s the details of preparation and service that make Matteo’s stand out. Baked clams are a good place to start, as is the reliable chopped salad.

Linguini frutti di mare is one of the best in town. • Dinner daily. 561/392-0773. $$ max’s grille—404 Plaza Real, Mizner Park. Contemporary American. Though its signature California-influenced cookery and “American bistro” ambience are no longer furiously trendy, this stylish restaurant is as popular as ever due to consistently tasty and well-prepared food. Dishes run haute to homey, from seared-raw tuna to meatloaf wrapped with bacon. And don’t miss the luscious crème brûlée pie for dessert. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Brunch Sat.–Sun. 561/368-0080. $$ morton’s the steakhouse —5050 Town Center Circle. Steak house. There’s seemingly no end to diners’ love of huge slabs of high-quality aged beef, nor to the carnivores who pack the clubby-swanky dining room of this meatery. The star of the beef show is the giant bone-in filet mignon, which trumps with unusually deep and meaty flavor. The side of Grand Marnier soufflé is a cloud of luscious, citrus-y beauty that says while beef may be what’s for dinner, I am what’s for dessert. • Dinner daily. 561/392-7724. $$$ new york prime —2350 N.W. Executive Center Drive. Steak house. This wildly popular Boca meatery packs them in with swift, professional service, classy supper club ambience and an extensive wine list. And, of course, the beef—all USDA Prime, cooked to tender and juicy lusciousness over ferocious heat. The bone-in rib-eye is especially succulent, but don’t neglect the New York strip or

nick’s new haven-style pizzeria—2240 N.W. 19th St., #904. Italian. Cross

ninja spinning sushi bar—41 E. Palmetto Park Road. Japanese/sushi. “Whatever floats your boat” isn’t just a saying at this hipster sushi bar. Your sushi really does float on a boat, one of many bouncing along a channel cut into the top of the restaurant’s large, square sushi bar. High notes are the Mexican roll with tempura shrimp and avocado, and the sneakily fiery jalapeño-laced tuna tartare. If sushi doesn’t float your boat, gingery gyoza and crispy fried shrimp with a drizzle of spicy mayo probably will. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner daily. 561/361-8688. $$ pellegrino’s —3360 N. Federal Highway.

Italian. The bold, brash flavors of New Yorkstyle Italian-American cuisine are as in your face as a Manhattan cabbie at this low-key favorite of chef-owner Bobby Pellegrino, nephew to the clan that owns the legendary Rao’s in East Harlem. Pungent smells of garlic, anchovies, tomatoes and peppers fill the air; dishes like the rarely seen spiedini alla Romana, chicken Scarpariello and seafood spaghetti in Fra Diavolo sauce fill your belly. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/368-5520. $$$ p.f. chang’s —1400 Glades Road. Chinese.

There may have been no revolution if Mao had simply eaten at the Boca outpost of P.F. Chang’s—the portions are large enough to feed the masses—and the exquisite tastes in each dish could soothe any tyrant. We particularly like the steamed fish of the day, as well as the Szechuan-style asparagus. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/393-3722. (Other Palm Beach County location: 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561/691-1610) $$ piñon grill—6000 Glades Road. Contemporary American. The menu seemingly lists every recent trendy dish to come out of modern American restaurant kitchens, but Piñon succeeds with spot-on execution, mammoth portions and reasonable prices. Try the grilled artichokes with a zippy Southwestern-style rémoulade, a pair of giant crab cakes with more of that good rémoulade or a chocolate waffle with raspberry sauce that is the irresistible definition of lusciousness. • Lunch and dinner daily.

Brunch Sat.–Sun. 561/391-7770. $$ racks downtown eatery + tavern— 402 Plaza Real. Contemporary American. Though the menu generally falls under the heading of modern American comfort food, that can mean anything from elegant

“The Italian Restaurant on the Beach” –proudly serving you for 20 years!

best ItalIan readers’ choice award 2009, 2012, 2013 best wIne lIst boca raton magazine 2008, 2012 best brunch boca raton magazine 2006, 2012 best oceanfront dInIng readers’ choice award 2005, 2010 wine spectator award of excellence 2003-2014

34 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach • 561-274-9404 • caffelunarosa.com • Now Serving Our Brunch & Dinner Menus 7 Days | Live Entertainment | Valet Parking

/caffelunarosa

dining guide presentations like the jaw-dropping lobster cobb salad to homier offerings like burgers and pizza, fiery Buffalo-style calamari, succulent chicken roasted in the wood-fired oven and an uptown version of everyone’s campfire favorite, s’mores. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/3951662. $$

renzo’s of boca—5999 N. Federal Highway. Italian. The buzzword is fresh at Renzo’s. Fish is prepared daily oreganata or Livornese style, sautéed in white wine with lemon and capers or grilled. Homemade pasta is artfully seasoned, and Renzo’s tomato sauce is ethereal. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly.

561/994-3495. $$

ristorante sapori—301 Via de Palmas, Royal Palm Place. Italian. Sapori features fresh fish, veal and chicken dishes imbued with subtle flavors. The grilled Italian branzino, the veal chop Milan and the zuppa di pesce served over linguine are especially tasty, and the pasta (all 17 kinds!) is available in full and half orders, with your choice of 15 zesty sauces. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/367-9779. $$ ruth’s chris steak house—225 N.E. Mizner Blvd. Steak house. This is a refreshing departure from the ambience common to many steak houses; the room is comfortable, and conversation is possible. Naturally, we come here for the steak (they are sublime), but the lobster and fish are great. All your favorite sides are here, too. • Dinner nightly. 561/392-6746. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 661 U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, 561/863-0660; CityPlace, West Palm Beach, 561/514-3544) $$$

sapphire indian cuisine —500 Via de Palmas. Indian. Raju Brahmbhatt’s modern, sophisticated restaurant will smash any negative stereotypes of Indian cuisine or the restaurants that serve it. It’s sleek and stylish, with a well-chosen wine list and a staff that’s eager to please. The food is elegant and refined and alive with the complex blend of spices that makes Indian cuisine so intriguing. Try Bagarey Baigan, plush-textured, thumb-sized baby eggplants in a lush coconut-curry sauce. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/362-2299. $$

Oldie but Goodie

New restaurants come and go, but Uncle Tai’s authentic Hunan cuisine and white-linen service has set the bar high for 30-plus years.

156

|

seasons 52 —2300 Executive Center Drive.

Contemporary American. The food—seasonal ingredients, simply and healthfully prepared, accompanied by interesting wines—is firstrate, from salmon roasted on a cedar plank to desserts served in oversized shot glasses. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/998-9952. (Other Palm Beach County location: 11611 Ellison Wilson Road, Palm Beach Gardens, 561/6255852) $$ sushi ray—5250 Town Center Circle. Japanese/Sushi. Impeccably fresh and exactingly prepared sushi and other Japanese specialties are on display. The Nobu-esque miso sea bass gives a taste of this modern classic at a fraction of the price of the original, while the chef’s sushi assortment offers a generous arrangement of nigiri and maki for a reasonable $20. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. 561/394-9506. $$

bocamag.com july/august 2015

tanzy—301 Plaza Real. Italian. Part of the swanky iPic Theater complex (though it does not service the theater), this handsome spot relies on quality ingredients and careful preparation instead of culinary special effects and car chases. The Parma Bar, a sort of sushi bar for meat and cheese fanatics, also does terrific ricotta-stuffed fried squash blossoms. Panseared branzino and massive bone-in veal chop are excellent, and the ethereal rosemary beignets with rosemary-olive oil gelato are luscious and cutting edge. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. Brunch Sat.–Sun. 561/922-6699. $$$ taverna kyma —6298 N. Federal Highway.

Greek/Mediterranean. Few present Greek cuisine better. Expertly prepared dishes cover the spectrum of Mediterranean cuisine, from cold appetizers (dolmades—grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs) to hot starters (spanakopita, baked phyllo with spinach and feta cheese) to mouthwatering entrées like lamb shank (slow-cooked in a tomato sauce and served on a bed of orzo), massive stuffed peppers or kebobs.

• Lunch and dinner daily. 561/994-2828. $$ trattoria romana—499 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. This local mainstay does Italian classics and its own lengthy list of ambitious specials with unusual skill and aplomb. The service is at a level not always seen in local eateries. Pay attention to the daily specials, especially if it includes impeccably done langostini oreganata and the restaurant’s signature jumbo shrimp saltimbocca. • Dinner daily. 561/393-6715. $$$ truluck’s —351 Plaza Real. Seafood.

This stylish and sophisticated Mizner Park restaurant applies the steak house formula of classy, clubby ambience, formal service and an extensive wine list to seafood from across the nation, with great and consistent success. Crab is the specialty here and there are myriad versions—stone, Dungeness, Alaskan, soft-shell and more. Crispy soft-shells stuffed with crab and andouille are very good, if served without a drizzle of ketchup-y sauce on top. • Dinner nightly. 561/391-0755. $$$

twenty twenty grille —141 Via Naranjas. Contemporary American. You’ve probably licked postage stamps that are larger than Ron and Rhonda Weisheit’s tiny jewel box of a restaurant, but what it lacks in space it more than makes up for in charm, sophistication and imaginative, expertly crafted food.

Virtually everything is made in-house, from the trio of breads that first grace your table to the pasta in a suave dish of tagliatelle with duck and chicken confit. Don’t miss the jerk pork belly and grilled veal strip loin. • Dinner daily.

561/990-7969. $$ uncle julio’s —449 Plaza Real, Mizner Park.

Mexican. Taking Tex-Mex cuisine gently upscale with better-quality ingredients and more skillful preparation, this colorful eatery offers more than the usual suspects. You can get frog’s legs and quail, as well as beef and chicken fajitas, and one of the only palatable tamales around. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/300-3530. $

Buzz Bites ii Tapas Time: There aren’t many chefs who can say that Jose Andres was their mentor, but bryant Fajardo can. The chef-owner of Patio Tapas & beer (205 S.E. First Ave., Boca Raton, 561/4197239), a New York native raised in Colombia, made his culinary bones in Andres’ Bazaar restaurants in Los Angeles and Miami.

The Spanish-born Andres, owner of several restaurants in this country and in Spain, is considered one of the world’s best and most creative chefs; he’s often credited with sparking the tapas boom in the U.S. Patio Tapas takes over the tiny but hugely charming space once home to A Slice of Provence, a Provençal-style pizzeria that closed abruptly late last year.

That charm is still intact, though.

Blue-and-white wicker furnishings, fork-and-spoon chandeliers and a cute little patio shaded by colorful umbrellas give it an inviting feel.

The menu is pure Spanish, with classics like pan con tomate and gambas al ajillo sharing space with more contemporary offerings like tiny pork belly sandwiches with pickled shallots, and lemon aioli and crispy chicken thighs with rosemary honey mustard.

There’s a small selection of beers and wines, and for dessert—cotton candy! (Which, BTW, you can get with a side of foie gras.)

—bill ciTara

uncle tai’s—5250 Town Center Circle.

Chinese. In an area with more cookie-cutter Chinese restaurants than cookies, Uncle Tai’s stands out for the elegance of its decor, the professionalism of its service and its careful preparation of familiar and less-familiar dishes.

The “specialties” section of the menu has exciting dishes, like the Hunan vegetable pie, finely minced veggies sandwiched between sheets of crispy bean curd skin, and Hunan-style lamb, whose seared and succulent meat shows off the kitchen’s skill in the use of wok qi. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/368-8806. $$$

S

I

K

YO

UR

TEETH

IN

TO

O

ME R M SU

N

LINE may

U

UP

sept

Kids Eat Free Sun-Thurs.

ALL LOCATIONS

Half-Price

Bottles of Wine

VARIES PER LOCATION

10

for $10

Lunch Menu

INCLUDES A BEVERAGE – VARIES PER LOCATION

Fresh & Fun

Summer Dinners

ALL LOCATIONS

VISIT RAPOPORTSRG.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A RESERVATION.

KITCHEN

&

BAR

R

dining guide villagio italian eatery—344 Plaza

Ave., #5. chinese. Chinese restaurants in South Florida are routinely maligned, but this modest little strip-center gem holds its own, year after year. Everything is well-prepared, but the dim sum basket is an instant classic. Meanwhile, the pork dumplings and shrimp dumplings are not to be missed. • Lunch and dinner daily.

561/737-2782. $

vino —114 N.E. Second St. Wine Bar/Italian.

prime catch—700 E. Woolbright Road.

An impressive wine list of some 300 bottles (all available by the glass) offers a multitude of choices, especially among Italian and California reds. The menu of “Italian tapas” includes breaded and fried artichoke hearts, and ravishing ricotta and fig-stuffed ravioli with prosciutto, balsamic syrup and brown butter.

• Dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/869-0030. $

seafood. Waterfront restaurants are few and far between in our neck of the woods, and those with good food are even more rare. Prime Catch, at the foot of the Woolbright bridge on the Intracoastal, is a best-kept secret. The simple pleasures here soar—full-belly clams, fried sweet and crispy; a perfectly grilled piece of mahi; or bouillabaisse overflowing with tender fish. Don’t miss one of the best Key lime pies around. • Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch. 561/737-8822. $$

West Boca city fish market —7940 Glades Road.

We Love Lucy

Everyone knows Sushi Simon is the best sushi in town, but don’t miss the singular Crazy Lucy soup, named after a server here.

seafood. A multimillion-dollar remodel of the old Pete’s has turned it into an elegant seafood house with a lengthy seafood-friendly wine list, impeccably fresh fish and shellfish cooked with care and little artifice. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. 561/487-1600. $$

sybarite pig—20642 State Road 7. contemporary american. A labor of love, pork and beer, everything at the Pig but the coarse-grain mustard is made in-house, from the bread for sandwiches to the eclectic sauces to the variety of terrific sausages. Creamy cotechino, savory duck and subtly spicy “Hellswine” are among the standouts. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. Brunch Sun. 561/883-3200. $ tempura house —9858 Clint Moore Road, #C-112. Japanese/asian. Dark wood, rice paper and tiles fill the space. An appetizer portion of Age Natsu, fried eggplant, is a consummate Japanese delicacy. Don’t miss the ITET roll with shrimp tempura and avocado, topped with spicy mayo, tempura flakes and eel sauce.

• Lunch and dinner daily. 561/883-6088. $$

villa rosano —9858 Clint Moore Road.

Italian. You can be forgiven for imagining yourself in some rustic Italian hill town as the smells of garlic and tomato sauce waft through the air. Start by sopping up the house olive oil with slices of crusty bread, then move on to a stellar version of clams Guazzetto and delicate fillets of sole done a la Francese. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner daily. 561/470-0112. $$

Boynton Beach bar louie—1500 Gateway Blvd., #100. eclectic. Attempting to split the difference between happening bar and American café, Bar Louie in the sprawling Renaissance Commons complex mostly succeeds, offering burgers, pizzas, fish tacos and a variety of salads, all at moderate prices and in truly daunting portions. In South Florida’s world of trendy and expensive bistros,

158

|

this is a welcome relief. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/853-0090. $

Real. Italian. The classic Italian comfort food at this Mizner Park establishment is served with flair and great attention to detail. The reasonably priced menu—with generous portions— includes all your favorites (veal Parmesan, Caesar salad) and some outstanding seafood dishes (Maine lobster with shrimp, mussels and clams on linguine). There is a full wine list and ample people-watching given the prime outdoor seating. • Lunch and dinner daily.

561-447-2257. $$

bocamag.com july/august 2015

china dumpling—1899-5 N. Congress

sushi simon—1614 S. Federal Highway.

Japanese. It’s been called “Nobu North” by some aficionados, and for good reason. Local sushi-philes jam the narrow dining room for such impeccable nigirizushi as hamachi and uni (Thursdays), as well as more elaborate dishes like snapper Morimoto and tuna tartare.

Creative, elaborate rolls are a specialty. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/731-1819. $$

delray Beach 3rd and 3rd—301 N.E. Third Ave. Gastropub. John Paul Kline’s quirky, individualistic, obscurely located little place is one of the most important restaurants in Delray. The menu changes frequently, but hope the evening’s fare includes plump scallops with caramelized mango sauce, stunning delicious roasted cauliflower with Parmesan mousse and bacon, and wicked-good espresso panna cotta on it at your visit. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/303-1939. $$ 32 east —32 E. Atlantic Ave. contemporary american. At a time when chefs and restaurants seem to be constantly shouting their own praises, Nick Morfogen and 32 East go quietly about their way of serving thoughtfully conceived, finely crafted dishes with a minimum of fuss and artifice. The menu changes daily, but recent examples of Morfogen’s culinary expertise include plump scallops given an elegant bouillabaisse treatment and fork-tender venison with a terrific Asiago-fig risotto. When the food is this good, you don’t need to shout. • Dinner daily. 561/276-7868. $$$

50 ocean—50 S. Ocean Blvd. seafood. The former Upper Deck at Boston’s on the Beach is now the more upscale, seafood-oriented spot.

The menu ranges from familiar to slightly more inventive, from a classic lobster bisque and crisp-tender fried clam bellies to rock shrimp pot pie and baked grouper topped with blue crab. The cinnamon-dusted beignets are puffs of amazingly delicate deep-fried air and should

Buzz Bites iii Conley Does sanDwiChes: clay conley’s stellar Buccan in Palm Beach has long had a little sister (aka, nextdoor restaurant Imoto, which means “little sister” in Japanese).

Now one of South Florida’s most exciting restaurants has a little brother. It’s the Sandwich Shop at Buccan (350 S. County Road, 561/833-3450), a closet-sized space, once a back room at Buccan, dishing up artisan sandwiches from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Nothing fancy about the place.

It’s counter-service only, with a menu of hot and cold sandwiches served on house-made bread, plus a couple of salads, cookies and brownies, coffee and tea, and that’s about it. The sandwiches, though, have a distinct chef’s touch, from pork loin with broccoli rabe, provolone and lemon shallot vinaigrette to a turkey club with bacon, avocado, heirloom tomatoes and creamy horseradish dressing.

—bill citara not under any circumstances be missed. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner daily. Brunch Sun. 561/278-3364. $$

angelo elia pizza • bar • tapas —16950 Jog Road. Italian. Nothing on the menu of Angelo Elia’s modern, small plates-oriented osteria disappoints, but particularly notable are the meaty fried baby artichokes stuffed with breadcrumbs and speck, delicate chicken-turkey meatballs in Parmesan-enhanced broth, and Cremona pizza with a sweet-salty-earthy-pungent mélange of pears, pancetta, Gorgonzola, sundried figs and mozzarella. • Lunch Tues.–Sun. Dinner daily. 561/381-0037. $

apeiro kitchen & bar—14917 Lyons Road. Mediterranean. Burt Rapoport has another winner and west Delray diners have another reason to stay in their neighborhood with the debut of this stylish, contemporary Mediterranean eatery. With former Chicago toque David Blonsky as chef and partner, Apeiro’s menu spans the entire Mediterranean, with dishes like Moroccan-spiced lamb ribs, veggie-rich pastitsio, and fluffy meatballs adorned with tomato sauce, ricotta and pesto. The apple crostata, baked in a wood-burning oven, is one of the best desserts in town. • Dinner daily. 561/501-4443. $$

Visit the Mediterranean this Summer for $40 per Couple $40 3-COURSE DINNER FOR TWO • SUNDAY–THURSDAY

“HHHH” John Tanasychuk KITCHEN

&

BAR

14917 Lyons Road in the Delray Marketplace (corner of Atlantic Avenue and Lyons Road) FOR RESERVATIONS: 561-501-4443 or visit Opentable.com www.apeirorestaurants.com

dining guide Lunch Mon.–Sun. Dinner nightly. Outdoor dining. 561/272-0220. $$

cut 432 —432 E. Atlantic Ave. Steak house.

Hipper decor, a more casual vibe and an inventive take on steak-house favorites make this sleek restaurant just different enough to be interesting. Starters such as ceviche (prepared Peruvian style) and ultrarich oysters Rockefeller are first-rate, while the wet-aged beef is appropriately tender and tasty. • Dinner daily. 561/272-9898. $$$

Casa di Pepe’s linguine con vongole

Let Them Eat Cake

Stop by Deck 84 this summer and give your wallet a rest; kids eat free through Sept. 30.

atlantic grille—1000 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood/Contemporary American. This posh restaurant in the luxurious Seagate Hotel & Spa is home to a 450-gallon aquarium of tranquil moon jellyfish and a 2,500-gallon shark tank.

Savor inventive cuisine that takes the contemporary to the extraordinary. Bold flavors, inspired techniques and the freshest ingredients make every meal a culinary adventure. • Lunch and dinner daily. Brunch Sat.–Sun. 561/6654900. $$

cabo flats—Delray Marketplace, 14851

buddha sky bar—217 E. Atlantic Ave.

caffé luna rosa—34 S. Ocean Blvd. Italian.

This favorite is always lively, and alfresco dining is the preferred mode. Entrée choices are enticing, but we went with the penne alla vodka with pancetta, tomato and basil. Also delicious was the costoletta di vitello, a center-cut 14-ounce veal chop lightly breaded and served either Milanese or parmigiana. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with the cheesecake imported from the Carnegie Deli. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/274-9404. $$

#3. Pan Asian. Don’t miss a meal at this stylish Asia-meets-industrial chic spot with a view of the Delray skyline. Chinese-influenced dim sum is inspired, while rock shrimp tempura and Tokyo beef skewers with twin chimichurri sauces touch the heart and the taste buds.

Veggie fried rice is exemplary thanks to the kitchen’s application of wok chi. • Dinner daily.

561/450-7557. $$

burt & max’s—9089 W. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Burt Rapoport and Dennis Max have struck gold with their first collaboration in years, bringing an accessible and affordable brand of contemporary comfort food to west Delray. A few dishes from Max’s other eatery, Max’s Grille, have made the trek, like the hearty chopped salad and bacon-wrapped meatloaf. Other dishes are variations on the comfort food theme, from boniato and yuca chips with blue cheese to a stellar truffle-scented wild mushroom pizza. • Dinner daily. Sunday brunch. 561/638-6380. $$$

160

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Lyons Road. Mexican. Mexican cuisine often has more personas than Madonna. This highly stylized cantina adds another—that of California’s Chicano culture. All your favorite Mexican dishes are there, as well as enormous margaritas, but also niftier items like the terrific tuna tostadas. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/499-0378.

(Other Palm Beach County location: Downtown at the Gardens, 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave., 561/624-0024) $

casa di pepe —189 N.E. Second Ave. Italian. A welcoming staff, familiar Italian dishes done right and moderate prices define this cozy spot with a spacious outdoor patio. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/279-7371. $$

city oyster—213 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood.

This stylish mainstay of Big Time Restaurant Group serves up reasonably priced seafood that never disappoints, such as crab-stuffed shrimp with jalapeño cheddar grits, bacon, shiitake mushrooms and warm vinaigrette. •

AAron BriStol

dada—52 N. Swinton Ave. Contemporary American. The same provocative, whimsical creativity that spawned Dada the art movement infuses Dada the restaurant, giving it a quirky charm all its own. The comfort food with a moustache menu has its quirky charms too, like shake-n-bake pork chops with sweet-savory butterscotch onions, and a brownie-vanilla ice cream sundae with strips of five-spice powdered bacon. The wittily decorated 1920s-vintage house-turned-restaurant is, as they say, a trip. • Dinner daily. 561/330-3232 $$ d’angelo trattoria—9 S.E. Seventh Ave. Italian. Don’t go expecting the tired old “Italian” culinary clichés at this wickedly stylish spot. Open your palate to more authentic and exciting Roman-style cuisine, like roasted veal bone marrow with brisk caper-parsley pesto, creamy-dreamy burrata with roasted fava beans and watercress salad, the classic tonnarelli cacio e pepe (“cheese and pepper”) and the best gelato this side of a real Roman trattoria. • Dinner daily. 561/330-1237. $$ deck 84 —840 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Burt Rapoport’s ode to laid-back tropical dining is like a day at the beach without getting sand between your toes. Though the restaurant is casual, the kitchen takes its food seriously, whether the steallar flatbreads, the thick and juicy 10-ounce special blend burger or homey apple cobbler. And the waterfront location just seems to make everything taste better.

• Lunch Mon.–Fri. Brunch Sat.–Sun. Dinner daily. 561/665-8484. $

dig—777 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Recently purchased by a mother-anddaughter team, the vibe here is organic, local and sustainable. Expect dishes ranging from barbecue sea-whistle salmon to lump-crab guacamole.

• Lunch and dinner daily. 561/279-1002. $$

el camino —15 N.E. Second Ave. Mexican.

This sexy, bustling downtown spot is from the trio behind nearby Cut 432 and Park Tavern.

Fresh, quality ingredients go into everything from the dusky red chili and tangy tomatillo salsas to the world-class tacos of fish clad in crisp, delicate fried skin and set off by tart pineapple salsa. Cinnamon and sugar-dusted churros are the perfect dessert. And do check out the margaritas, especially the half-and-half blend of smoky mezcal and blanco tequila.

• Lunch and dinner daily. 561/865-5350. $$

fifth avenue grill—821 S. Federal Highway. American. Since 1989, this upscale tavern

y, el Ra a h c a r an, R m h d ove c n i a R m tiis : Ada uren nd S a S L I als a M De n T ’ a o i d N s DO Gia fes , pro pon, s a f C e ch y!

Josh best ustr e d h n t i e of in th 500 s r e mak wine

866.969.2933 | @NYCWFF HOSTED BY AND BENEFITING

The Festival promotes responsible drinking. 100% of the net proceeds go to Food Bank For New York City and the No Kid Hungry® campaign.

Photo Credit: Getty | Sponsors confirmed as of 5.27.15

EXCLUSIVE PROVIDER OF WINE AND SPIRITS

PLATINUM

PREFERRED CARD

HEADQUARTER HOTEL

OFFICIAL AIRLINE

DIAMOND

PREMIER

dining guide

Savor Summer and Save.

has been a Delray favorite. The straightforward menu focuses on entrées, especially the famed Allen Brothers beef; choose from numerous cuts and preparations—and add a lobster tail for good measure. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/265-0122. $$

Three-course prix fixe dinner for two, plus a bottle of wine. $ per person

38

greek bistro—1832 S. Federal Highway. Greek. Flaky, overstuffed spanikopita and light and delicate beef meatballs should be at the top of your appetizer list, and though entrées don’t always reach those heights, both a long-braised lamb shank and grilled whole snapper are certainly satisfying. And the baklava is great. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/266-8976. $

Monday – Thursday through August 31*

Moon jellyfish aquarium and shark tank • Sensational seasonal menu Ocean-themed specialty cocktails

the grove —187 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. Chef-partner Michael Haycook and chef Meghan O’Neal change their menu biweekly, turning out dishes exhilarating in their freshness, creativity and elegant simplicity. An appetizer of octopus with sun-dried tomato tapenade is merely terrific. • Dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/266-3750. $$ henry’s —16850 Jog Road. American. This casual, unpretentious restaurant from Burt Rapoport in the west part of town never fails to delight diners. Expect attentive service and crisp execution of everything—from meat loaf, burgers and fried chicken to flatbreads and hefty composed salads. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/638-1949. $$ house of siam—25 N.E. Second Ave., #16. Thai. The normally riotous flavors of Thai cuisine are muted at this familyfriendly downtown spot, but that seems to suit diners just fine. Dishes, well-prepared and generously portioned, include steamed chicken and shrimp dumplings with sweet soy dipping sauce and crisp-fried duck breast in a very mild red curry sauce. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. 561/330-9191. $$

il girasole —1911 S. Federal Highway. Northern Italian.

This South Florida classic is not trendy, but it offers a level of comfort and consistency that has been bringing people back for 30 years. The food is fine hearty Italian, with excellent service. Try the veal Kristy or the frogs legs. • Dinner Tues.– Sun. 561/272-3566. $$

Summer Live Entertainment Tuesday: 8 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Doo-wop

Friday: 8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Orson Whitfield

Wednesday: 8 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Orson Whitfield

Saturday: 8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Orson Whitfield and Emelee

Thursday: 8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Atlantic Blues Band

Sunday: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Acoustic Guitarist

jimmy’s bistro —9 S. Swinton Ave. Eclectic. Best bets are a lovely salad of ripe tomatoes and fresh, milky house-made mozzarella; a rich, elegant version of lusty Cajun etouffee; and caramelized bananas in puff pastry with silken vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. • Dinner daily. 561/865-5774. $$

Join us “4” Happy Hour $4 house wine, draft beers, and well cocktails. Daily from 4 – 7 p.m.

Open for dinner daily Delray’s Best Brunch Sat. & Sun. 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

For information, reservations, or to purchase gift cards, visit TheAtlanticGrille.com or call 561-404-1557.

At The Seagate Hotel, 1000 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach

*The prix fixe menu changes monthly and includes a bottle of house wine. Does not include tax and gratuity.

seagate-atlanticgrille_brm0715.indd | bj uol yc/ aaumg au sgt . 2c0o1m5 1 162

j&j seafood bar & grill—634 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. This local favorite on Atlantic Avenue—owned

by John Hutchinson (who is also the chef ) and wife Tina— serves up everything from burgers and wraps to a menu brimming with seafood options. Don’t forget to inquire about the stunning array of 10 specials—every night. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/272-3390. $$

5/13/15 4:56 PM

la cigale —253 S.E. Fifth Ave. Mediterranean. True culinary professionals turn out gently updated and classically oriented dishes notable for the quality of their ingredients and careful preparation. Sweetbreads in chanterelle cream sauce are glorious; a barely grilled artichoke with mustardy remoulade is gloriously simple. Watching your server skillfully debone an impeccably fresh Dover sole is almost as satisfying as eating it. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/265-0600. $$

lemongrass bistro —420 E. Atlantic Ave. Pan-Asian.

Casually hip ambience, friendly service, moderate prices and a blend of sushi and nouveau pan-Asian fare make this a popular destination. The quality of its seafood and care in its preparation are what gives Lemongrass its edge. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/278-5050. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 101 Plaza Real S., Boca Raton, 561/544-8181; 1880 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach, 561/733-1344). $

Dec_Boca Magazine_4.75x9.75 12/15/14 9:39 PM Page 1

mastino—25 N.E. Second Ave. Italian/pizza. While pizza from the restaurant’s oak-fired oven may be the focus, Mastino also dishes an array of small plates, from an achingly rich mac-n-three cheeses to a hearty “Old School” meatball with tomato sauce and ricotta to plump littleneck clams in a garlicky white wine-olive oil broth. • Lunch Fri.–Sun. Dinner daily. 561/921-8687. $

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

Daringly Traditional.

You crave it. We serve it.

max’s harvest —169 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. Dennis Max, instrumental in bringing the chef and ingredient-driven ethos of California cuisine to South Florida in the 1980s, is again at the forefront of the fresh, local, seasonal culinary movement. Max’s Harvest soars with dishes like savory bourbon-maple glazed pork belly. • Dinner daily. Brunch Sat.–Sun. 561/381-9970. $$

The Triple J Sandwich Corned beef, roast beef, turkey and Swiss cheese rolled with lots of Cole slaw and Russian dressing.

Exclusively at TooJay’s

the office —201 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Your office is nothing like this eclectic gastropub, unless your office sports more than two dozen craft beers on tap and a menu that flits from burgers and fries to mussels.

Don’t miss the restaurant’s winning take on the thick, juicy Prime beef burger and simply wicked maple-frosted donuts with bacon bits and two dipping sauces. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/276-3600. $$

park tavern—32 S.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. The guys from Cut 432 have done it again with this hip, casual modern American tavern. The menu is tightly focused and tightly executed, whether Maryland crab cake featuring fat chunks of succulent crab or mustard-barbecue pork belly with Carolina gold cheese rice. Don’t miss the behemoth slab of tender, juicy prime rib for a near-saintly $29—or the decadent soft pretzel bites. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/265-5093. $$

the porch—85 S.E. Sixth Ave. Italian. The concept is simple: fresh, honest, inviting food. The husband-wife team of Heinrich Lowenberg and Pamela Lomba delivers with classic and creative dishes, alike. Highlights include housemade capellini and the cocoa-dusted tiramisu. • Dinner daily.

561/303-3647. $$

prime —29 S.E Second Ave. Steak/Seafood. Prime is aptly named for its heart of the action location, classy neo-supper club decor, extensive wine list and roster of designer steaks.

Starters and desserts fare better than entrées, especially plump, crabby Maryland-style crab cakes and indecently luscious chocolate bread pudding. Service is a strong suit too, so with a bit of work this good-looking restaurant will fully live up to its name. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/8655845. $$$

racks fish house & oyster bar—5 S.E. Second Ave. Seafood. Gary Rack, who also has scored with his spot in Mizner Park, certainly seems to have the restaurant Midas touch, as evidenced by this updated throwback to classic fish houses. Design, ambience and service hit all the right notes. Oysters are terrific any way you get them; grilled fish and daily specials are excellent. • Lunch and dinner daily.

561/450-6718. $$$ smoke —8 E. Atlantic Ave. Barbecue. With famed pit master Bryan Tyrell manning the smoker, this joint smokes every other barbecue spot in South Florida. Pretty much everything that comes out of Tyrell’s three-wood smoker is good, but his competition-style ribs are porky-smoky-spicy heaven, the Sistine Chapel of rib-dom. Crisp-greaseless house-made potato chips, meaty baked beans and plushtextured banana-coconut pudding are also excellent. The ambience is an inviting blend of Southern hospitality, urban chic and sports bar. • Dinner Wed.–Mon. Lunch Sat.–Sun. 561/330-4236. $$

Since 1981, TooJay’s has been delighting diners with an exciting and eclectic menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. When the craving strikes indulge in authentic NY–Style deli sandwiches or settle in with slow roasted turkey, old fashioned pot roast and other time–honored comfort food favorites. Friendly, professional service is a part of every meal, so make plans today to join us for “a little taste of home”.

Legendary desserts: carrot cake, black & whites, chocolate Killer Cake.

Boca Raton Polo Shops (561) 241-5903 • Regency Court Plaza (561) 997-9911 Glades Plaza (561) 392-4181 • Locations also in Coral Springs, Plantation, Boynton Beach and West Palm Beach • www.toojays.com

Toojays_brm0715.indd 1

163

b o c a m a g . c o5/28/15 m 9:37 AM follow the leader

|

dining guide sundy house—106 S. Swinton Ave. Contemporary American. It’s fine dining served in arguably the most beautiful restaurant and gardens in Delray. Menus are seasonal and imaginative. Try any of the fresh local fish dishes. • Lunch Tues.–Sat. Brunch Sun. Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/272-5678. $$ terra fiamma—9169 W. Atlantic Ave. Italian. The pleasures of simple, hearty, well-prepared Italian-American cuisine are front and center at Wendy Rosano’s latest venture.

Among the pleasures you should enjoy are delicate, pillow-y veal meatballs in Marsala sauce; lusty chicken Allessandro with mushrooms, spinach and artichoke hearts; and a finely crafted tiramisu that’s as satisfying as it is familiar. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/495-5570. $$

Established 1991

7 DAYS

6:00 am to 10:00 pm

BreAkFASt, LuncH & Dinner 80 S. Federal Highway • Deerfield Beach, FL • (945) 480-8402

www.olympiaflamediner.com OlympiaFlameDiner_brm0715.indd 1

5/11/15 9:03 AM

Established 1981

tramonti—119 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. With its roots in New York’s Angelo’s of Mulberry Street, this venue is always packed. Homemade stuffed manicotti is aromatic and glorious. Tramonti’s platter for two, containing fillet marsala, veal cutlet with prosciutto, fried zucchini and potato croquettes, is terrific. • Dinner daily. 561/272-1944. $$ tryst —4 E. Atlantic Ave. Eclectic. It’s tough to beat this hotspot with the lovely outdoor patio, well-chosen selection of artisan beers and not-the-usual-suspect wines, and an eclectic “gastropub” menu of small and large plates. Try the crisp-fried rock shrimp with chipotle-mayonnaise sauce. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/921-0201. $$ vic & angelo’s —290 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. God is in the details at this upscale trattoria, and he doesn’t miss much. Ingredients like Buffalo mozzarella, house-made pastas and San Marzano tomatoes are first-rate, and execution is spot on. Try the “Old School” meatball to start, then sample the perfectly cooked veal chop. Portions are substantial, so expect leftovers. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/2789570. (Other Palm Beach County location: 4520 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 844/842-2632) $$$

LAkE worth couco pazzo—915-917 Lake Ave. Italian. Despite the name,

French Continental

there’s nothing crazy about the cooking at this homey eatery.

It’s the hearty, soul-satisfying Italian cuisine we’ve all come to know and love. Spaghetti Bolognese is a fine version of a Northern Italian classic. • Dinner nightly. (Tues.–Sun. during summer). 561/585-0320. $$

paradiso ristorante—625 Lucerne Ave. Italian. A Tomasz Rut mural dominates the main dining room, and there is also a pasticceria and bar for gelato and espresso. Chef Angelo Romano offers a modern Italian menu. The Mediterranean saltcrusted branzino is definitely a must-try. Plus, the wine list is a veritable tome. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/547-2500. $$$ safire asian fusion—817 Lake Ave. Pan-Asian. This stylish little restaurant offers food that gently marries East and West, plus a roster of more traditional Thai dishes and inventive sushi rolls. Menu standouts include tempura-fried rock shrimp or calamari cloaked with a lush-fiery “spicy cream sauce.” Expect neighborly service and reasonable prices. • Lunch Tues.–Fri. Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/588-7768. $

LANtANA

Summer Menu Special

$39 3-Course Dinner Monday-Friday beginning May 11th 4199 N. Federal Hwy. s Boca ratoN s 561.395.6033 s katHysgazeBo.com KathysGazebo-fish_brm0515.indd | bj uol yc/ aaumg au sgt . 2c0o1m51 164

6/2/15 9:51 AM

the station house —233 Lantana Road. Seafood. If you’re hungry for Maine lobster, plucked live out of giant tanks and cooked to order, this modest replica of a 1920s train station is the place to go. Lobsters come in all sizes (up to 6 pounds) and are so reasonably priced that getting a taste of one without reservations is highly unlikely. • Dinner nightly. 561/547-9487. $$$

HOMEMADE ITALIAN BAKERY

Cosa Duci

PALM BEACH bice—313 Worth Ave. Italian. Bice continues to hold the title of favorite spot on the island. The venerable restaurant offers a marvelous array of risottos and fresh pastas and classic dishes like veal chop Milanese, pounded chicken breast and roasted rack of lamb. The wine list features great vintages. • Lunch and dinner daily. Outdoor dining. 561/835-1600. $$$

TM

Life’s Short...Eat Cookies!

Italian Artisan Bakery & Café

buccan—350 S. County Road. Contemporary American. Casual elegance of Palm Beach meets modern culinary sensibilities of Miami at the first independent restaurant by chef Clay Conley. The design offers both intimate and energetic dining areas, while the menu is by turn familiar (wood-grilled burgers) and more adventurous (truffled steak tartare with crispy egg yolk, squid ink orrechiette). Dinner daily. 561/833-3450. $$ café boulud—The Brazilian Court, 301 Australian Ave. French with American flair. This hotel restaurant gives Palm Beach a taste of Daniel Boulud’s world-class cuisine inspired by his four muses. The chef oversees a menu encompassing classics, simple fare, seasonal offerings and dishes from around the world. Dining is in the courtyard (not available during summer), the elegant lounge or the sophisticated dining room. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/6556060. $$$ café l’europe—331 S. County Road. Current international. A Palm Beach standard, the café has long been known for its peerless beauty, the piano player, the chilled martinis and the delicious Champagne and caviar bar. Try one of its sophisticated classics like Wiener schnitzel with herbed spaetzle, grilled veal chop and flavorful pastas. • Lunch Tues.– Fri. Dinner nightly (closed Mon. during summer). 561/6554020. $$$

chez jean-pierre—132 N. County Road. French. Sumptuous cuisine, attentive servers and a see-and-be-seen crowd are hallmarks of one of the island’s premier restaurants. Indulgences include scrambled eggs with caviar and the Dover sole meunière filleted tableside. When your waiter suggests profiterolles au chocolat or hazelnut soufflé, say, mais oui! • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/833-1171. $$$ cucina dell’ arte—257 Royal Poinciana Way. Italian. The wide range of items on the menu and the great quality of Cucina’s cuisine, combined with its fine service, ensures a fun place for a casual yet delectable meal—not to mention being a vantage point for spotting local celebs. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Outdoor dining. 561/655-0770. $$

echo —230A Sunrise Ave. Asian. The cuisine reverberates with the tastes of China, Thailand, Japan and Vietnam. The Chinese hot and sour soup is unlike any other, and the sake list is tops. This offsite property of The Breakers is managed with the same flawlessness as the resort. • Dinner nightly (during season). 561/802-4222. $$$

Come discover a hidden gem filled with pastries, cookies, espresso, gelato, cappuccino, Italian imports, daily lunch menu, wine and an authentic Italian family!

We change our menu daily!

Visit our site to see what mamma is cooking today: www.cosaduci.com

hmf—1 S. County Road. Contemporary American. Beneath the staid, elegant setting of The Breakers, HMF is the Clark Kent of restaurants, dishing an extensive array of exciting, inventive, oh-so-contemporary small plates. Don’t depart without sampling the dreamy warm onion-Parmesan dip with house-made fingerling potato chips, the sexy wild boar empanaditas, chicken albondigas tacos and Koreanstyle short ribs. The wine list is encyclopedic. Dinner daily.

561/290-0104. $$

imoto —350 S. County Road. Asian Fusion/Tapas. Clay Conley’s “little sister” (the translation of Imoto from Japanese) is next to his always-bustling Buccan. Imoto turns out Japanese-inspired small plates with big-city sophistication,

141 NW 20th Street B-21 Boca Raton • 561.393.1201 Baking for a good cause: A portion of our proceeds will benefit research for Multiple Sclerosis.

cosaduci_brm0115.indd 1

165

b o c a m a g . c o5/27/15 m 3:40 PM follow the leader

|

dining guide deconstructing the dish

hot-smoked salmon eggs benedict

Dennis Teixeira, executive chef, City Oyster

C

ould brunch exist without eggs Benedict?

Probably. But it wouldn’t be the same. There’s something about the classic combination of ingredients—chewy English muffin, salty-smoky ham, molten poached egg, buttery hollandaise—that speaks to the kind of sinfully indulgent luxury that brunch is ultimately all about. No one’s in a hurry, and you can always go home and take a nap.

At City Oyster in downtown Delray (213 E. Atlantic Ave., 561/2720220), Dennis Teixeira dishes up an inventive riff on classic eggs

Fire it up: If you have a gas or charcoal barbecue, you can smoke your own salmon. Build a low fire on one side of the grill, then add a handful or two of wood chips soaked in water. Place the salmon on the side of the grill opposite the fire and cover. Teixeira smokes his salmon for just under two hours at 175 degrees, but you can smoke it for less time at 200 to 225 degrees.

166

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Kitchen secret, part I: Always add vinegar to the egg-poaching water. It helps the white coagulate quicker so you don’t overcook the eggs.

Benedict, substituting a flaky buttermilk biscuit for the English muffin and house-smoked salmon for the ham. The poached egg and the hollandaise? Well, some things just can’t be improved upon.

only the best: Use the highest quality salmon you can find.

At City Oyster they use Loch Duart salmon, a hormone- and antibioticfree farmed salmon from Scotland. If you can’t find wild salmon at your favorite grocery, Captain Frank’s in Boynton Beach and Cod & Capers in North Palm Beach are excellent sources.

—Bill Citara

Kitchen secret, part II: One way to tell when your hollandaise is ready is that it falls in thick ribbons from your whisk.

And don’t forget to give it a taste and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving.

Flavor blast: If you want to add a little extra flavor to your eggs Benedict, Teixeira says try garnishing it with a little fresh, not dried, dill. Dill “really goes well with the salmon,” Teixeira says.

vIsIt bocamag.com to review Teixeira’s step-by-step instructions for this house-made spin on eggs Benedict.

SOCIAL

There is only one word to describe Downtown Delray Beach, Florida ‌ SOCIAL! Whether you are casual, urban, sophisticated or chic, the heart of our historic Village by the Sea will never disappoint the social side of you. Our thriving community of artists, culture and entertainment, along with our eclectic shops and mouth-watering cuisine, will have you spreading the word about Downtown Delray Beach far and wide.

Take your family and friends for a warm dip in the crystal blue waters of the Atlantic along two miles of pristine beach.

Come and explore SOCIAL Downtown Delray Beach!

DowntownDelrayBeach.com I 561.243.1077

#DowntownDelray

dining guide like witty Peking duck tacos and decadent tuna and foie gras sliders. Sushi selection is limited but immaculately fresh. • Dinner daily.

561/833-5522. $$

jové kitchen & bar—2800 S. Ocean Blvd. Contemporary Italian. Jové is named for the Italian god of the sky, and when the folks at the tony Four Seasons decided to remake their premier restaurant, they reached high to offer the kind of food, service and ambience that would appeal to both their affluent older clientele and a younger, hipper, foodie-oriented crowd. Mission accomplished with dishes like the inventive take on vitello tonnato, with silken tuna sauce and coffee-infused quail egg, or the duo of lamb chops and loin with lamb jus and goat cheese. Desserts sparkle too. • Dinner daily.

561/533-3750. $$

Hair of the Dog

Legend has it that the Bloody Mary was invented at ta-boo for a hungover Barbara Hutton.

leopard lounge and restaurant — The Chesterfield Palm Beach, 363 Cocoanut Row. American. The restaurant offers excellent food in a glamorous and intimate club-like atmosphere. In fact, it’s advisable to make early reservations if a quiet dinner is the objective; the place becomes a late-night cocktail spot after 9. The menu is equally decadent. • Breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner daily. 561/6595800. $$ meat market —191 Bradley Place. Steak house. “Meat Market” may be an inelegant name for a very elegant and inventive steak house but there’s no dissonance in its food,

service or ambience. Multiple cuts of designer beef from multiple sources can be gilded with a surprising array of sauces, butters and upscale add-ons. Whole roasted cauliflower is an intriguing starter, while a meaty Niman Ranch short rib atop lobster risotto takes surf-n-turf to a new level. Cast your diet to the winds and order the dessert sampler. • Dinner daily.

561/354-9800. $$$$

nick & johnnie’s—207 Royal Poinciana Way. Contemporary American. Expect flavorful, moderately priced California-esque cuisine in a casual setting with affordable wines and young, energetic servers. • Lunch and dinner Mon.–Sat. Breakfast Sun. 561/655-3319. $$

renato’s —87 Via Mizner. Italian with continental flair. This most romantic hideaway is buzzing in season and quietly charming all year long with Italian classics and a Floridian twist—like the sautéed black grouper in a fresh tomato and pernod broth with fennel and black olives and the wildflower-honey-glazed salmon fillet with crab and corn flan. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/655-9752. $$$ ta-boo —2221 Worth Ave. American. This self-described “American bistro” is less typical “American” restaurant or classical French “bistro” than it is posh-casual refuge for the see-and-be-seen crowd in and around Palm Beach. The eclectic menu offers everything from roasted duck with orange blossom honey-ginger sauce to dry-aged steaks and an assortment of pizzas. • Lunch and dinner daily.

561/835-3500. $$ trevini ristorante—290 Sunset Ave. Italian.

Maitre d’ Carla Minervini is your entrée to a warm experience, complemented by a stately but comfortable room and excellent food. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/833-3883. $$$

pAlm beACh gArdenS café chardonnay—4533 PGA Blvd. Contemporary American. This longtime stalwart never rests on its laurels. Instead, it continues to dish finely crafted American/Continental fare with enough inventiveness to keep things interesting. The popular herb-and-Dijonmustard rack of lamb, regular menu items like duck with Grand Marnier sauce, and always superlative specials reveal a kitchen with solid grounding in culinary fundamentals. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. 561/627-2662. $$

weSt pAlm beACh

leila—120 S. Dixie Highway. mediterranean.

Flowing drapes and industrial lighting complete the exotic decor in this Middle Eastern hit. Sensational hummus is a must-try. Lamb kebab with parsley, onion and spices makes up the delicious Lebanese lamb kefta. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sun. 561/659-7373. $$

marcello’s la sirena—6316 S. Dixie Highway. Italian. You’re in for a treat if the pasta of the day is prepared with what might be the best Bolognese sauce ever. Another top choice is the chicken breast, pounded thin and filled with fontina and prosciutto. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. (closed Memorial Day–Labor Day).

561/585-3128. $$ pistache —101 N. Clematis St. French.

Pistache doesn’t just look like a French bistro, it cooks like one. The menu includes such bistro specialties as coq au vin and steak tartare. All that, plus guests dining al fresco have views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Centennial Park. • Brunch Sat.–Sun. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/833-5090. $$ rhythm café—3800 S. Dixie Highway.

Casual American. Once a diner, the interior is eclectic with plenty of kitsch. The crab cakes are famous here, and the tapas are equally delightful. Homemade ice cream and the chocolate chip cookies defy comparison. • Dinner Tues.– Sun. 561/833-3406. $$ rocco’s tacos —224 Clematis St. mexican.

Big Time Restaurant Group has crafted a handsome spot that dishes Mexican favorites, as well as upscale variations on the theme and more than 200 tequilas. Tacos feature housemade tortillas and a variety of proteins. Madeto-order guacamole is a good place to start. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/650-1001.

(Other Palm Beach County locations: 5250 Town Center Circle, Boca Raton, 561/416-2133; 5090 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561/6230127; and soon on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach) $ table 26°—1700 S. Dixie Highway. Contemporary American. Take a quarter-cup of Palm Beach, a tablespoon of Nantucket, a pinch of modern American cookery and a couple gallons of the owners’ savoir faire, and you have Eddie Schmidt’s and Ozzie Medeiros’s spot.

The menu roams the culinary globe for modest contemporary tweaks on classically oriented dishes. Try the fried calamari “Pad Thai.” • Dinner daily. 561/855-2660. $$$

café centro —2409 N. Dixie Highway. Ital-

The bar at Jové

168

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

ian. There are many things to like about this modest little osteria—the unpretentious ambience, piano nightly after 7 p.m., the fine service, the robust portions and relatively modest prices. And, of course, the simple, satisfying Italian cuisine. The kitchen breathes new life into hoary old fried calamari, gives fettucine con pollo a surprisingly delicate herbed cream sauce, gilds snowy fillets of grouper with a soulful Livornese. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner daily. 561/514-4070. $$

browArd county CoConUt CreeK nyy steak —Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, 5550 N.W. 40th St. Steak house.

The second incarnation of this New York

SO MANY AWARDS CAN’T BE WRONG.

We Believe in the Power of Good Thoughts

avivvodka.com

dining guide Yankees-themed restaurant swings for the fences—and connects—with monstrous portions, chic decor and decadent desserts.

The signature steaks, dry-aged for 21 days, are a meat lover’s dream; seafood specialties include Maine lobster and Alaskan king crab.

Don’t miss the NYY Steak 151 volcano for dessert. • Dinner daily. Brunch Sun. 954/9776700. $$$$

deerfield beach tamarind asian grill & sushi bar —949 S. Federal Highway. asian. Quiet and soothing, this multicultural venue serves sushi, sashimi, yakitori and wide-ranging Japanese appetizers. • Lunch and dinner daily.

954/428-8009. $$

fort lauderdale 15th street fisheries —1900 S.E. 15th St. Seafood. Surrounded by views of the Intracoastal, this Old Florida-style restaurant features seafood and selections for land lovers.

We love the prime rib. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/763-2777. $$

Hey Hey Paula

Treat yoursef to super chef Paula DaSilva’s inspired “Chef’s Selection” menu at 3030 Ocean for $48 per person, $59 with wine.

3030 ocean—Harbor Beach Marriott Resort, 3030 Holiday Drive. american. The menu is heavy on seafood and changes several times a week. We recommend the sautéed Florida red snapper or the indulgent butter-roasted Maine lobster. For dessert, try the popular roasted banana crème brûlée. • Dinner nightly.

954/765-3030. $$$

bistro 17—Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Hotel, 1617 S.E. 17th St. contemporary american.

This small, sophisticated restaurant continues to impress with competently presented food.

The menu is surprisingly diverse. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 954/626-1748. $$

bistro mezzaluna—1821 S.E. 10th St. italian. The bistro is all Euro-chic decor—mod lighting, abstract paintings. It also has good food, from pastas to steaks and chops and a wide range of fresh seasonal fish and seafood.

Don’t forget the phenomenal wine list. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/522-6620. $$

bongusto ristorante—5640 N. Federal Highway. italian. This is a well-kept secret, featuring dishes that will meet the standards of those who savor authentic Italian. Involtini capricciosi—tender-rolled veal stuffed with spinach, prosciutto and fontina cheese—is satiating, while the whole yellowtail snapper is an equal delight. • Dinner Tues.–Sat. 954/771-9635. $$

|

canyon—1818 E. Sunrise Blvd. Southwestern. Billed as a Southwestern café, this twist on regional American cuisine offers great meat, poultry and fish dishes with distinctive mixes of lime, cactus and chili peppers in a subtle blend of spices. The adobe ambience is warm and welcoming, with a candlelit glow. • Dinner nightly. 954/765-1950. $$ casablanca café—3049 Alhambra St. american, Mediterranean. The restaurant has an “Arabian Nights” feel, with strong Mediterranean influences. Try the peppercorn-dusted filet mignon with potato croquette, Gorgonzola sauce and roasted pepper and Granny Smith relish. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/764-3500. $$ casa d’angelo—1201 N. Federal Highway. italian. Many dishes are specials—gnocchi, risotto and scaloppine. The veal chop is grilled and blanketed in a thick layer of Gorgonzola. A delightful pasta entrée is the pappardelle con porcini: thick strips of fresh pasta coated in a light red sauce and bursting with slices of porcini mushrooms. • Dinner nightly. 954/564-1234. $$

chima—2400 E. Las Olas Blvd. Steaks. The Latin American rodizio-churrascaria concept— all the meat you can eat, brought to your table— is done with high style, fine wines and excellent service. The sausages, filet mignon, pork ribs and lamb chops are very good. • Dinner daily.

954/712-0581. $$$ eduardo de san angel—2822 E. Commercial Blvd. Mexican. Try master chef Eduardo Pria’s pan-sautéed Florida blue crab and yellow corn cakes. As far as soups go, there’s the pasilla-chile-flavored chicken broth with fresh “epazote” (fried corn tortilla strips, sliced avocado, sour cream and homemade cheese).

The pan-seared beef tenderloin filet mignon is sublime. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 954/772-4731. $$$ il mulino —1800 E. Sunrise Blvd. italian.

This modest, unpretentious Italian restaurant doesn’t attempt to reinvent the culinary wheel.

Instead, it dishes up big portions of simple, hearty, flavorful food at extremely reasonable prices. Zuppa de pesce is a wealth of perfectly cooked seafood over linguini in a light tomato-based sauce. • Lunch and dinner daily.

954/524-1800. $

café emunah—3558 N. Ocean Blvd.

Kosher, organic. Don’t let the New Age “spirituality” throw you off. Focus on the fresh, organic ingredients that are incorporated into inventive sushi, soups and salads and (mostly) Asian-influenced entrées. • Lunch and dinner Sun.–Thurs. Sat. late evening hours. Closed Fri. 954/561-6411. $

indigo —Riverside Hotel, 620 E. Las Olas

café martorano —3343 E. Oakland Park

johnny v—625 E. Las Olas Blvd. american.

Johnny Vinczencz made his mark at Boca’s

Blvd. italian. Standouts include crispy calamari

170

in marinara sauce and flavorful veal osso buco.

Our conclusion: explosive flavor, attention to all the details and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Waiters whisper the night’s specials as if they’re family secrets. • Dinner daily. 954/5612554. $$

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Blvd. Seafood. Enjoy delightful al fresco dining while sampling fresh seafood and exotic specialties. Dependable choices like ahi tuna are joined by more intriguing seafood dishes; landlubbers will enjoy a selection of steaks and chops. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

954/467-0671. $$

Buzz Bites iV Boca’s Philly connection: Behind every restaurant is a story, but the story behind Boca’s new merlino’s (39 S.E. First Ave., 561/756-8437) is juicier than most.

“Merlino,” in this case, is Joseph “Skinny Joey” Merlino, in the 1990s reputed to be head of the Philadelphia mob, now on parole and living in Boca. Though Merlino is host rather than owner, his family’s recipes—hearty Italian cookery with a “contemporary South Philadelphia flair”—make up much of the lengthy menu.

Think familiar dishes given a modern twist, like clams baked with shrimp and crabmeat and napped with béchamel cream sauce, pearstuffed fiocchi with four-cheese sauce and chicken paillard with arugula, tomato and mozzarella salad.

There are plenty of old favorites too, from fried calamari and spaghetti carbonara to chicken cacciatore and a 14-ounce grilled veal chop. An outstanding and inventive cocktails program is also on the menu, thanks to manager-mixologist Lee Hoechstetter.

—bill citara Maxaluna and Max’s Grille and (the former) De La Tierra at Delray’s Sundy House. Now in his own restaurant on Las Olas Boulevard, Vinczencz has evolved. As for the impressive wine list, Johnny V has more than 600 selections.

• Lunch and dinner daily. Outdoor dining.

954/761-7920. $$

sea watch—6002 N. Ocean Blvd. Seafood.

For a right-on-the-beach, welcome-to-Florida dining experience, there’s Sea Watch. Decked out in a pervasive nautical theme, this is definitely tourist country, but it’s pretty and on the beach. The perfect entrée for the indecisive: Sea Watch medley, with lobster tail, jumbo shrimp and scallops broiled in butter, garlic and white wine. • Lunch and dinner daily.

954/781-2200. $$ shula’s on the beach—Sheraton Yankee Trader, 321 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Steaks. This steak house on the beach provides what could be the best ocean view in two counties. Meat is the focus, with a compact

Tastemakers at Mizner Park presents

l l & o R S , k t c r o o ll R tues

A fabulous night of food, wine, cocktails and entertainment, featuring Mizner Park’s extraordinary collection of TASTEMAKERS— a progressive food and cocktail tasting event you won’t want to miss!

oct

13

6:00 - 9:00 P.M.

$30 dining ticket Available September 1 for purchase at participating Tastemaker restaurants or online at miznerpark.com. Each Dining Ticket also includes two months of exclusive dining offers at participating Tastemaker restaurants from September 1 to October 31.

bocamag.com • miznerpark.com

dining guide and prepare to dive into excellent signature bone-in steaks. The menu includes chops and a diverse array of fresh fish and pasta dishes. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner daily. 954/462-9119. $$

HOllywOOd lola’s on harrison—2032 Harrison St. New American. Chef-owner Michael Wagner reinvigorates quintessentially American dishes with exacting technique and inventive flavor combos. Short ribs braised in Coca-Cola come with indecently rich, tarragon-laced creamed corn. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 954/927-9851. $$

taverna opa—410 N. Ocean Drive. Greek.

Bring all your friends here and order a million mezes (Greek appetizers). Try the keftedes, Greek meatballs, and the lamb chops or snapper, which is filleted at the table. Don’t be surprised when your waiter pulls you up on the table to dance. • Dinner nightly. 954/9294010. (Also: 270 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561/303-3602). $$

lAUdERdAlE-By-THE-SEA blue moon fish company—4405 W. Tradewinds Ave. Seafood. This is one of the best spots in Broward County for waterside dining. Choose from a raw bar and fish nearly every which way, as well as daily, seasonal fish specials. • Lunch and dinner daily. Brunch Sun. 954/267-9888. $$$

lIGHTHOUSE POINT

Classic cheddar melt at the Cheese Course

menu of all your faves, as well as your new favorite steak, Mary Anne: two mouthwatering 5-ounce filets in a creamy cognac and shallot sauce. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

954/355-4000. $$

sublime—1431 N. Federal Highway. Vegetarian. Not only does the menu offer an alternative to animal agriculture, the company’s profits support animal welfare. The haute vegetarian cuisine delivers with dishes like mushroom ravioli. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 954/539-9000. $ sunfish grill—2775 E. Oakland Park Blvd.

Seafood. Think inventive, sophisticated food, the kind that made the original Pompano Beach restaurant a major destination. Its take on tuna tartare is still the gold standard, and you can’t go wrong with entrées like onion-crusted salmon or the grilled Atlantic swordfish. • Dinner Tues.– Sat. 954/561-2004. $$ timpano italian chophouse—450 E. Las Olas Blvd., #110. Italian. Sink yourself into oversized booths with elegant white tablecloths

172

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

AAron Bristol

le bistro —4626 N. Federal Highway. Modern French. The menu modern and healthy— 98-percent glutin-free, according to chef/owner Andy Trousdale. Check out the prix-fixe menu, which includes pan-roasted duck to beef Wellington. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 954/946-9240. $$$

seafood world—4602 N. Federal Highway.

Seafood. This seafood market and restaurant, more suited to a pier, offers some of the freshest seafood in the county. Its unpretentious atmosphere is the perfect setting for the superb king crab, Maine lobster, Florida lobster tails and much more. Tangy Key lime pie is a classic finish. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sun. 954/942-0740. $$$

courses offer complex flavor profiles, such as the sweet-onion-crusted yellowtail snapper on Madeira sauce over mashed potatoes.

Parts of the menu change daily. • Dinner nightly. 954/782-0606. $$$

wESTON cheese course—1679 Market St. Bistro. Locals love the made-to-order bistro sandwiches on fresh baguettes, daily quiche selections and cheese plates. Favorites include the applewoodsmoked bacon with goat cheese brie sandwich.

• Lunch and dinner daily. 954/384-8183. (Other location: Mizner Park, 305 Plaza Real, #1305, Boca Raton, 561/395-4354.) $

MIAMI-dAdE county AVENTURA bourbon steak—19999 W. Country Club Drive. Steaks. Michael Mina’s elegant steak house in tony Turnberry Isle features impeccable service, an encyclopedic wine list and a roster of USDA Prime Angus, Wagyu and Kobe steaks. Try the feather-light beignets accompanied by cookbook-perfect crème brûlée and chocolate pot du crème. • Dinner Mon.–Sun. 786/279-6600. $$$$

BAl HARBOUR the palm— 9650 E. Bay Harbor Drive.

Steaks. The portions are giant, but you’ll surely clear your plate of 3- to 7-pound jumbo Nova Scotia lobster or a tender filet mignon. S&S cheesecake shipped from the Bronx is pure heaven. • Dinner nightly. 305/868-7256. $$$

cOcONUT GROVE bizcaya grill—Ritz-Carlton, 3300 S.W. 27th Ave. European-American. The versatile menu features “simply grilled” items. The boldly flavored menu also offers “house specialties,” contemporary takes on bistro fare. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 305/644-4670. $$

POMPANO BEAcH

cORAl GABlES

calypso restaurant —460 S. Cypress

caffe abbracci—318 Aragon Ave. Italian.

Road. caribbean. This bright little dining room and bar (beer and wine only) has a Caribbean menu that is flavorful, imaginative—and much more. Calypso offers a spin on island food that includes sumptuous conch dishes, Stamp & Go Jamaican fish cakes and tasty rotis stuffed with curried chicken, lamb or seafood. • Lunch and dinner Mon.–Fri. 954/942-1633. $

The dining room is handsome and understated, a fitting ambience for Miami’s movers and shakers. That’s just part of the draw of Abbracci, though the regional Italian fare has achieved its own status as some of the best in the Gables.

You can’t go wrong with the porcini risotto or the pounded veal chop “tricolore.” • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 305/441-0700. $$

darrel & oliver’s café maxx—2601

la palme d’or—The Biltmore, 1200 Anastasia Ave. French. Chef Philippe Ruiz emphasizes modern French fare from the southern regions of France, doing so with classic technique and light-handed manner. The portions are relatively small, encouraging five courses, and

E. Atlantic Blvd. American. The longstanding institution from chef Oliver Saucy is as good now as when it opened in the mid-1980s. The peppered sea scallops appetizer is a must, as is Café Maxx’s beloved cheese plate. Main

Boca Raton's

insider advertising • promotions • events

Summer BliSS at loewS miami Beach hotel

Loews Miami Beach Hotel invites you to escape to South Beach for the ultimate vacation, where Premium Plus Internet is free, kids eat free, fourth night is free & more! Bask in the sunshine at SOAK Cabana Deck, indulge in exclusive resort credit, and relax at exhale Spa. Experience Miami with the "Summer Like A Local Passport," offering perks at local attractions for the whole family.

1601 Collins Avenue • Miami Beach, Fl, 33139 305-604-1601 • loewshotels.com/miami-beach/specials

DeBorah JameS: eMeRGinG deSiGneRS And PeRSonAl Style Deborah James strives to provide each customer with a personal experience and unique style. With over 25 years of exposure to European and American fashion, Deborah has compiled trends from emerging designers for the modern woman. First in fashion for your summer wardrobe in Florida.

Royal Palm Place, Boca Raton • 561/367-9600 las olas Boulevard, Fort lauderdale • 954/524-2585 deborahjames.com

tooJay'S Gourmet Deli

On the corner of Tradition and Broadway you’ll find TooJay’s - a New York inspired delicatessen straight from the streets of the Big Apple. Perhaps you know this haven of comfort food, featuring unique favorites you just won’t find in other restaurants - hand sliced deli meats, soothing matzo ball soup, crisp potato pancakes and so much more!

Regency Court Plaza • 561/997-9911 Glades Plaza • 561/392-4181 Polo Shops • 561/241-5903 toojays.com

PAlM BeACh PediAtRiC dentiStRy

Summer is here, and now is a great time to get your child’s dental appointment scheduled. Dr. Saadia is currently scheduling summer months and wants you to get the appointment time that works best for your schedule. Please call our office to schedule your ideal appointment time. See you soon!

9250 Glades Road, Suite 212 • Boca Raton 561-477-3535 • pbpdcares.com

Visit bocamag.com/events for more information.

dining guide guests may design their own custom tastings, with a wide variation in price. • Dinner Tues.– Sat. 305/445-1926, ext. 2400. $$$$

ortanique on the mile—278 Miracle Mile. Caribbean. Menu highlights include tropical mango salad, spicy fried calamari salad, Caribbean ahi tuna with wasabi potatoes and jerk-spiced Cornish game hen. • Lunch Mon.– Fri. Dinner nightly. 305/446-7710. $$$

pascal’s on ponce —2611 Ponce de Leon Blvd. French. When Pascal Oudin ran the kitchen at the Grand Bay Grand Café, his tropical take on French cuisine earned him national acclaim. Now, he offers a more streamlined, but still contemporary, French menu. We definitely suggest the sea scallops, which are topped with short ribs and served with truffle sauce. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 305/444-2024. $$$$

miami

Good Afternoon

The midday menu at Michael’s features gourmet snacks (think chicken liver crostini) and inventive speciality cocktails designed to take the edge off.

azul—500 Brickell Key Drive. Contemporary French-asian fusion. This award-winning restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental serves jaw-dropping fare, from wild Maine scallops with maitake and pickled shallots to Kurobuta pork belly with braised cabbage and rainbow carrots. While looking out over the stunning expanse of Biscayne Bay from the chic, elegant dining room, check out the equally stunning wine list, which reads like an encyclopedia of the world’s great vintners. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 305/913-8288. $$$$ michael’s genuine food & drink—130 N.E. 40th St. american. At James Beard award-winning chef Michael Schwartz’s unpretentious restaurant, you’ll get plenty of genuine satisfaction from genuinely delicious food, exactingly prepared and simply presented. Wood-roasted double yolk farm egg and crispy pork belly are divine. Surprisingly, all the desserts from rock star pastry chef Hedy Goldsmith aren’t rock-star quality, but dining here is such a genuine pleasure it almost doesn’t matter. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. Brunch Sun. 305/573-5550. $$

michy’s —6927 Biscayne Blvd. Contemporary american. There’s a lot to like about Michy’s.

Dishes like creamy truffled polenta with poached egg and bacon are lovely. The wine list is exciting and exceptionally well-chosen, and service is on a level rarely seen in South Florida restaurants. • Dinner Tues.–Sat. 305/759-2001. $$$

romeo’s café—2257 S.W. Coral Way. Northern italian. There is no menu per se. After ascertaining your food allergies and preferences, Romeo will dazzle you with six courses.

We loved the lightly breaded sea bass with lima beans, the risotto with scallops and cilantro, and the penne with capers and porcini mushrooms.

Excellent service and a good wine list. • Lunch Tues.–Fri. Dinner Tues.–Sun. Prix fixe six-course menus. 305/859-2228. $$$$ versailles —3555 S.W. Eighth St. Cuban.

Versailles has been one of Calle Ocho’s most

174

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

popular restaurants since 1971. This is goodto-the-last-black-bean Cuban with a menu the size of the Old Testament. It’s also one of the better people-watching spots in town. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 305/4440240. $

smith & wollensky—1 Washington

miami beaCh

Ave. Steaks. Mammoth cruise ships pass by large picture windows, while a stream of waiters carry thick, juicy, dry-aged steak— filet mignon, prime rib, N.Y. sirloin and rib-eye. Creamed spinach and onion rings are textbook sides. • Lunch and dinner daily.

305/673-2800. $$$$

barton g. the restaurant—1427 West Ave. Contemporary american. Barton G., an event impresario with a flair for serious theatrics, has fashioned his unique restaurant with fun and interesting fare. Choices include popcorn shrimp—served with real popcorn in a movie-theater container. Desserts look like props from “Pee Wee’s Playhouse.”• Dinner nightly. 305/672-8881. $$$

sushisamba dromo —600 Lincoln Road. eclectic. Blend the influence of Japanese immigrants on Peruvian and Brazilian cuisines, add a dollop of Caribbean and a dash of South Florida, and you’ve got exciting and satisfying food. Sushi doesn’t get any more glamorous than when combining ahi with shiso leaf and a slab of foie gras. • Lunch and dinner daily.

Brunch Sat.–Sun. 305/673-5337. $$$

casa tua—1700 James Ave. Northern italian.

yuca —501 Lincoln Road. Cuban. Young Cuban Yuca still packs them in—mostly because it remains one of the only places on Miami Beach to partake of upscale Cuban cuisine.

There are plenty of old favorites from which to choose—like guava-glazed, barbecued babyback ribs—and they still delight. • Lunch and dinner daily. 305/532-9822. $$

This 1925 Mediterranean Revival property with an oft-changing menu showcases simple, sophisticated ingredients that typify the best of Italian cooking. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. Outdoor dining. 305/673-1010. $$$$

escopazzo —1311 Washington Ave. italian.

Escopazzo is consistently cited as the best Italian restaurant on South Beach—but patrons also dig the health-conscious vibe; the restaurant bills itself as organic, with a raw foods component on the menu. Pasta is the star here, hand-rolled and tossed with far more alluring partners than meatballs or clams—as in pumpkin ravioli with white-truffle cream sauce and pappardelle with buffalo-meat ragoût. • Dinner nightly. 305/674-9450. $$

joe’s stone crab —11 Washington Ave. Seafood. You’re likely to wait a few hours for the privilege of getting a taste of old Florida (not to mention the best stone crabs on the planet). But it’s worth it. Fried oysters, lyonnaise potatoes, creamed spinach and Key lime pie are other specialties. • Lunch Tues.–Sat. Dinner nightly in season. Dinner Wed.–Sun., mid-May–July (Closed Aug., Sept. and half of Oct.). 305/673-0365. $$$

ola at sanctuary—1745 James Ave. Nuevo Latino. Creative ceviches are a signature of chef Douglas Rodriguez, none better than a mix of shellfish with octopus “salami.” Foie gras and figstuffed empanadas turn the humble into haute, as does the sublime pork with black-trumpet mojo. • Dinner nightly. 305/695-9125. $$$$

osteria del teatro —1443 Washington Ave. italian. The exceptional Northern Italian cuisine at this restaurant has been consistently ranked among the best in Miami Beach.

• Dinner nightly. 305/538-7850. $$$ sardinia—1801 Purdy Ave. italian. The food is exactingly prepared, extraordinarily fresh and always delicious. Whether a selection of high-quality salumi, tube-like macaronis with veal meatballs in a lusty tomato sauce, or superb salt-baked branzino, dishes deliver the kind of soulful satisfaction all the “fusion cuisine” in the world can’t match. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 305/531-2228. $$$

miami LakeS shula’s steak house —7601 Miami Lakes Drive. Steaks. The head coach with the most wins in National Football League history has a very straightforward game plan when it comes to food—large steaks and tasty sides. Classic cuts include a 32-ounce prime rib served on the bone, a 24- or 48-ounce porterhouse and a 16-ounce New York sirloin.

305/820-8102. (Other location: Alexander Hotel, 5225 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, 305/3416565.) $$$

South miami two chefs—8287 S. Dixie Highway. Continental american. Owner/chef Jan Jorgensen is Florida’s answer to Wolfgang Puck, putting out exquisite California-style cuisine. The menu changes seasonally. Don’t miss the chocolate and Grand Marnier soufflé. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 305/663-2100. $$$

SuNNy iSLeS timó —17624 Collins Ave. italian. This stylish spot offers great twists on classic and not-soclassic Italian fare. Favorites include thin-crust pizzas from a wood-burning oven and crispy oysters with pancetta and white beans. A tasting menu is available (wine extra), and desserts feature Italian themes with tropical notes, such as the macadamia nut brittle with gelato, caramelized bananas, pineapple and toasted coconut. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly.

305/936-1008. $$

check out our complete tri-county dining guide only at bocamag.com.

The Best Real Estate Company in Town

THE GREATEST AND MOST COMPREHENSIVE REAL ESTATE WEBSITE IN SOUTH FLORIDA!

Search For Your Dream Home On Our Extensive Dream Home Finder!

Find Out What Your Home Value Is Today!

Visit Our New Spectacular Website and Take a Virtual Tour of our Magnificent Properties:

www.MiznerGrandeRealty.com

ARI ALBINDER Broker / Owner

THE BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY IN TOWN! www.MiznerGrandeRealty.com

Direct 561.702.0413 TEXT OR CALL

Office 561.393.7000

Ari@MiznerGrandeRealty.com

Advertorial

! a c o B n i d e v i r r a has Photography by Aaron Bristol Content by Rich Pollack

wn Summer IntenSIve Camp SChedule

G

ive Michael Jackson most of the credit for changing Manny Castro’s life.

Castro, an internationally

Castro holds the reigning crown as the only instructor and choreographer to have put four separate groups on national television.

recognized dancer, choreographer and instructor who opened the Dance Town Boca

From that day when he first watched the

weekends in a Las Vegas-style show at a Miami

of Santiago, Chile when he watched a music

overcome a series of obstacles to reach the

video starring the late music icon.

acclaim he now enjoys.

At the time, he was going to school while selling clothes in a Santiago flea market.

then that men could look like a man when we dance.”

Still unpolished, Castro became a street dancer, just going out and dancing with friends

From that moment on, despite the objections of his father who wanted him to stay in school,

clean a dance studio every day in exchange for lessons. At the same time, he performed on

Chilean premier of “Thriller,” Castro has

“I saw Michael Jackson in the ‘Thriller’ video

To hone his skills, Castro made a deal to

“We’ve come a long way,” he says.

studio last summer, was living in his hometown

in 1986 and that was it,” he says. “I knew

“But I never gave up.”

in crowded areas.

Soon Castro recognized that he needed to

club.

Soon he taught his first dance class and earned $15.

“That single class became two classes and those two classes became 10 and the 10 became 100,” he says.

With the opening of Dance Town Miami 12 years ago, Castro fulfilled his dream of having his own studio.

Castro developed a passion for dance that

perfect his dancing skills if he was going to turn

inspired his life’s work.

his passion into a career, so he enrolled in a

Castro is having an opportunity to train those

ballet school.

who want to dance just for fun as well as those

Since 2003 when he and his wife, Lory, also a dancer and instructor, opened their first studio in Miami, he has guided dancers to 10 national championship and he’s also had huge successes with national television shows.

“That’s when I fell in love with the art of dance,” he says.

He would take lessons and later would also teach. Eventually he got the opportunity to

In 2009, son D’Angelo—then 9—along

dance on the Chilean version of the popular

with dance partner Amanda took home the

“Sabado Gigante” variety television show.

$500,000 top prize in Paula Abdul’s “Live to Dance” competition.

He later won the right to perform on the American version of the show and came to

“That was our big break for national

Miami for the first time.

recognition,” says Castro, 47.

“I just fell in love with South Florida,” he says.

Since then he’s had three other acts, including one with daughter Ruby and her dance partner

“It was living in paradise.”

He discovered, however, that it can be

Jonas, on national television shows including

difficult to live in paradise when you don’t speak

“America’s Got Talent” and “So You Think You

the language or have a job.

July

Can Dance.”

“I struggled like every immigrant,” he says.

13 - 17 20 - 24 27 - 31

RegisteRing now

for camp and for fall competition season. expecting exceptional choreographer instructors.

Today, with studios in Miami and Boca,

who want to be competitive and perhaps even dance professionally.

“There’s so much talent in the Boca area,” he says. “We can do wonders here.”

Dance Town Boca now includes 17 handpicked instructors who offer lessons in every style of dance—from ballet to ballroom.

“Dance not only teaches steps, it also teaches discipline, focus and respect,” he says.

Much has changed for Manny Castro since he first saw “Thriller,” but he’ll still get up and do a few of the old—and, by today’s standards, obsolete—moves when he hears the music.

“The Michael Jackson style was my first love and it never goes away,” he says.

Classes for Minis, Petites, Juniors, teens, seniors 51 glades Road, Boca Raton, Fl 33432 561-338-7778 • dancetownboca.com

Advertorial

ISRAELFEST

WITH THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY More than 3,000 people of all ages celebrated Israel’s 67th anniversary of statehood with the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County at Mizner Park Amphitheater. Throughout the afternoon, they heard live music, moving remarks and a ceremony commemorating Jerusalem Day. Other activities included PJ Library® family fun, a showcase of Jewish community resources, and exhibits at the Boca Raton Museum of Art.

From left:

Josh Nelson, Neshama Carlebach

From left:

Tali Amihud, Raina Goldberg, Lital

From left: From left:

Marla Weiss Egers, Matt Levin, Al & Jane Gortz

Selma & Dan Weiss

From left:

Amelia, Bess & Sadie Markelis

From left: Boca Raton City Council Member Scott Singer, Boca Raton Deputy Mayor Robert Weinroth, Members of Congress Lois Frankel and Ted Deutch, Andrew Robins, Consul General Chaim Shacham, Pastor Tye Riter

out&about

[ by stefanie cainto ]

BRisTOlfOTO

[1]

ICE BALL

WhErE: Boca Raton WhAt: A discernable element of cool filled the air at Boca Raton magazine’s inaugural Ice Ball. The VIP event at the Boca Raton Museum of Art featured inspired ice sculptures, a dazzling selection of Ferraris from Excell Auto Group, a private viewing of Hublot’s Ferrari White Ceramic Carbon watch, signature cocktails from Premier Beverage and culinary creations from Max’s Grille.

[ 1 ] Mark Schaffer, Tom Karl, Katie Logan, Mark Schuetz, Zach Maisner, Lindsay Ressler, Shawn Miller, Jenny Miller, Kristina Dennis and Bryen Dennis

more event coverage Visit bocamag.com for photo galleries from social events, store openings, charity fundraisers and other community gatherings in and around Boca Raton. To submit images for Out and About, e-mail appropriate material to people@bocamag.com.

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

179

out&about ice ball (cont.)

[2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

[2]

Maria Gidley and Adya Ali Leslie Farber and Scott Farber Frank Gentile, Susan Albinder and Ari Albinder Jay Rosenkranz and Linda Rosenkranz Kristen Zankl and Scott Zankl

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

SPecial tHanKS to oUR SPonSoRS: Atlas Party Rental Boca Raton Museum of Art Excell Auto Group Hublot Les Bijoux Max’s Grille Mizner Grand Realty Premier Beverage Prime Cigar Styled Ice Worth Avenue Yachts

180

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

vivi bohrer

Potions in Motion

[1]

HEART AND STROKE BALL

Where: Boca Raton What: The Boca Raton Resort & Club turned the calendar back a few decades for a 1960s-inspired gala benefiting the American Heart Association. The event featured live music from the Midtown Men and an appearance by four of the original cast members from “Jersey Boys� on Broadway.

[ 1 ] David Meehan, Holly Meehan, Donna Zoley and George Zoley [ 2 ] Dick Schmidt and Barbara Schmidt [ 3 ] Irving Gutin and Barbara Gutin (center) with the Midtown men [ 4 ] John Gallo and Christine Lynn [ 5 ] Brenda Ferber and Alan Ferber

[2]

[3]

[5] [4]

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

181

out&about COUNTRY CLUB CHEF SHOWDOWN

Where: Boca Raton What: Kitchen stars from some of the area’s most prestigious private communities battled it out at Woodfield Country Club during the fourth annual Chef Showdown.

After considerable deliberation by the judges, James Dyer of Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club took home the top prize at the “Iron Chef”-style event that benefits Hospice of Palm Beach County Foundation and Hospice by the Sea Foundation.

[1]

[1] [2] [3] [4]

Marilyn Brooks and Kellie Trotta David Sabin, Lindsay Autry and Tim Lipman Stephanie Miskew, Katherine Barnhart and Virginia Philip Winning dish: Cornmeal-dusted lobster cake with sweet corn grits and sweet corn chow chow [ 5 ] Lois Victor and Marian Nease [ 6 ] James Dyer, Mike Hemminghouse, Jarrod Artman and Steve Munroe

[2]

[4]

[5]

[6]

182

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

[3]

[1]

FLAVORS OF BOCA

Where: Boca Raton What: Local foodies filled the Sonoma House for the Junior League of Boca Raton’s annual tasting event. This year’s theme was “From the Farm To Your Fork,” featuring mouthwatering bites made from locally sourced sustainable ingredients, tables upon tables of desserts, live music and a silent auction.

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

Rich Garcia and Andrea Garcia Melanie Deyo and Margi Cross Britney Hodson, Alicia Laufer and Melissa Novak Tom Stanley and Kirsten Stanley Sherry Winter and Doug Winter Jackie Reeves and Custodia Olivieri

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[5]

downtown photo

[6]

183

out&about [1]

APURA GRAND OPENING

Where: Boca Raton What: Apura Juicery and Coffeehouse was the site of healthful giveaways during its grand opening and ribboncutting ceremony. Community members sampled coldpressed juice, nut “mylk� and an assortment of raw foods available at the juice and coffee spot.

[ 1 ] Laurence Lachance and Becca Dendek [ 2 ] Britt Goldschmidt, Susan Mussaffi and Ann Goldschmidt [ 3 ] Amy Carlsen and Nicole Dittman [ 4 ] Gianella Fabiani and Francisco Moreno [ 5 ] Patrick Frederich and Cynthia Sewell

[2]

[4]

[5]

184

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

[3]

FAU GALA [1]

Where: Boca Raton What: FAU Stadium attracted a who’s who of university and community dignitaries for an evening of gourmet cuisine, entertainment and fireworks that celebrated the inaugural year of FAU president John Kelly. Proceeds from the event went to a scholarship fund for students with demonstrated financial need that was launched by Kelly and his wife.

[ 1 ] Carolyn Kelly, John Kelly, Barbara Schmidt and Dick Schmidt [ 2 ] Mary Lynn Magar, Robert Stilley, Natalie Haywood and Marcell Haywood [ 3 ] Lorna Sohn Williams and Marilyn Weinberg [ 4 ] Robert Primeau, Jan Savarick and Matt Savarick [ 5 ] Beverlee and Howard Schnellenberger [ 6 ] Joanna Drowos and Bryan Drowos

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

jeffrey tholl photography

[6]

bocamag.com follow the leader

|

185

out&about [1]

[2]

[5]

[4]

[3]

[7] [6]

RED ROSE GALA

Where: Palm Beach What: The 33rd annual benefit for the National Society of Arts and Letters’ Florida East Coast Chapter proved yet again that some of South Florida’s most talented performers are right in Boca’s backyard. The Lynn University Philharmonia Orchestra treated a Mar-a-Lago Club audience of some 200 attendees to selections from “The Sound of Music.” NSAL scholarship winners from Lynn’s Conservatory of Music and from FAU also performed.

[ 1 ] Donald Trump and Shari Upbin [ 2 ] Cathe Tepper, Marilyn Swillinger and Robin Muir [ 3 ] 2015 NSAL Lynn University scholarship recipients: Vladislav Kosminov (piano), Alla Sorokoletova (flute) and Trace Johnson (cello) [ 4 ] Roswitha “Madi” and Alexander Guzinski [ 5 ] Barry and Joyce Levin [ 6 ] Suzanne Holmes and Dorinda Spahr [ 7 ] Anna Brumbaugh and Lisa Leonard

186

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

[1]

Soiree en Blanc

Where: Palm Beach What: Worth Avenue was the perfect backdrop for Boca Raton magazine’s chic Soiree en Blanc event. Attendees, many dressed in all white, enjoyed the launch of Hublot’s Ferrari White Watch while sipping on caipirinhas and Champagne—and viewing the Ferraris on display.

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

Megan Mullin and George Ross Robert Greer and Liana Smith Luis Prieto, Yvette Alvarez and Paul Mirabella Marguerite LaCorte and Jimmy McGregor Geralynn Zitsch and Elise Wever

[2]

[3]

[5]

bristolfoto

[4]

187

Boca Raton's

insider advertising • promotions • events

summer Dining at tHe atLantic griLLe

The Atlantic Grille welcomes summer with a new prix-fixe menu!

Every Monday through Thursday, guests can savor a threecourse dinner for two with a bottle of house wine for just $38 per person (valid through Aug. 31). Enjoy live entertainment Tuesday through Sunday!

For reservations: 561/922-7748 • theatlanticgrille.com

Happier Hours at apeiro kitcHen & bar

Daily from 4–6:30 p.m. at both bars, enjoy happy hour at Apeiro featuring half-price spirits, house wine and bottle beers, $6 specialty cocktails and a menu of small-plate options from Executive Chef David Blonsky. Apeiro After Dark features the same happy hour specials on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 p.m.–1 a.m.

14917 Lyons road, suite 100, Delray beach 561/501-4443 • apeirorestaurants.com

Design by Roney J. Mateu

Design by Chad Oppenheim

aViV VoDka

New to the market is Gold Medal-winner AVIV 613 Vodka, imported from Israel. At first sip, you immediately notice the taste is different. AVIV 613 is distilled from wheat, barley, olives, figs, dates, grapes and pomegranates. Triangular in shape, the bottle’s award-winning design is a three-sided tower that represents the soul—body, mind and spirit. There are more than 100 messages and 27 different languages hidden on the bottle. avivvodka.com

botaniko

Terra is revolutionizing the stereotypical suburban gated community by launching Botaniko Weston—a 121-acre community with a collection of 125 architecturally distinctive homes. Award-winning architects Chad Oppenheim and Roney J. Mateu designed Botaniko with inspiration gathered from the beauty and tranquility of Weston, as well as the adjacent Everglades National Park.

2893 executive park Drive, suite 304, Weston 954/812-1831 • botanikowestonfl.com

Visit bocamag.com/events for more information.

theBOCAinterview continued from page 79

legitimately. We had a built-in audience for the Latin Boys. We could play a gig and make the Anglo audience as happy as the Hispanic audience—and everyone in between. Had we been raised in any other city, I don’t think we’d have that sound. … Our music sounds like the tropics.

We wrote “Conga” when we were in Europe. When we came back home, we started playing it live before even recording it.

The minute we started playing, no matter the audience, people would go crazy. So Miami was the best focus group in the world, being multicultural and international.

We knew it would be well-received. We just had to convince everyone that stood in our way to let it happen. And it took awhile.

We had to convince record companies, radio people … It wasn’t an easy sell.

Gloria and Emilio Estefan

It took nearly a decade for MIaMI Sound MachIne to break bIg In the StateS. do you reMeMber that aS a fruStratIng perIod, or dId the band feel that It waS InevItable you would croSS over?

The only frustration was that people would tell us, “You’re too American for the Latins.

You’re too Latin for the Americans. Get rid of the horns. Get rid of the percussion.” No way.

This is who we are. We’re not going to change our sound to be famous or get a radio hit. We wanted people to listen to what we had to offer. We wanted to break ground, not follow in other people’s footsteps.

When we wanted to do “Conga,” the record company didn’t want us to release it. They wanted us to release “Primitive Love.” We told them we love that song, but the hit was “Conga.” So we made a 12-inch record and sent it to Europe, and it came in the back way.

In Europe, we came in as an imported band from America. In America, they thought we

190

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Jesús carrero

“People would tell us, ‘You’re too American for the Latins. You’re too Latin for the Americans.

Get rid of the horns. Get rid of the percussion.’ No way. This is who we are.”

aS SoMeone who haS Marched on behalf of the cuban woMen (“ladIeS In whIte”) whoSe huSbandS and SonS were Incarcerated for oppoSIng caStro, how do you feel about the Move to thaw relatIonS wIth cuba?

[breaking] point. This could give them legs.

And they don’t do anything in return.

I don’t know what’s going to happen in the long run, but I haven’t seen anything come from the negotiations. People still can’t travel freely out of Cuba. They still have trouble buying basic goods. And they’re still getting put in jail for speaking against the government. …

You need a dialogue. Theirs is a monologue.

And it always has been. I just don’t trust that they’re on the same page [as the U.S.].

First of all, the ladies that we marched for are still getting beaten up on a regular basis.

And a lot of the people who were supposed to be released when Obama made the announcement are back in jail. So forgive me if I don’t trust the Cuban government. I know from experience that they’re not to be trusted.

I believe very much in free travel. And I believe we should have an embassy in Cuba. What is a mistake, to me, is to open all business and pour millions of dollars into the hands of the Cuban government, because it’s going to shore them up. They were at a

July/August 2015 issue. Vol. 35, No. 5. The following are trademarks in the state of Florida of JES Publishing Corp., and any use of these trademarks without the express written consent of JES Publishing Corp. is strictly prohibited: Savor the Avenue; Tastemakers of Delray; Tastemakers at Mizner; Florida Style and Design; Delray Beach magazine; Boca Raton, South Florida At Its Best; bocamag.com; Florida Table; Boca Raton magazine. Boca (ISSN0740-2856) is published eight times a year (September/ October, November, December, January, February, March/April, May/June and July/August) by JES Publishing Corp. Editorial, advertising and administrative offices: 1000 Clint Moore Road, Suite 103, Boca Raton, FL, 33487. Telephone: 561/997-8683.

Please address all editorial and advertising correspondence to the above address. Periodicals postage paid at Boca Raton, Fla., and additional mailing offices. Subscriptions: $14.95/8 issues, $19.95/16 issues. Single copy $5.95. No whole or part of the content may be reproduced in any manner without prior written permission of Boca magazine, excepting individually copyrighted articles and photographs. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Boca magazine, P.O. Box 820, Boca Raton, FL 33429-9943.

were an Italian band. And then Epic signed us thinking we were a European band. At one point, Epic tried to sign us on their domestic label—not knowing we were already signed with them on their international label.

speedbumps [ by marie speed ]

Growing Pains It’s not too late to save the last thIngs that really matter.

I

remember the afternoon I interviewed for this job like it was yesterday. I had spent the morning being driven around, past the beaches and Gumbo Limbo and Red Reef parks. The night before I had had dinner at La Finestra, and everyone was determined to show off Boca Raton.

Except I couldn’t find it.

After the interview I drove around myself, to get oriented. I came closer and closer to downtown—or where I thought downtown was— but there was no town, really.

There were shops, Old Town Hall and Sanborn Square and Mizner Park—brand new then—but beyond that I could not find the center of town.

There was no there there.

Now, 20 some years later, a city center is emerging as cranes loom over Federal Highway and new apartment towers and hotels are being built. The loose axis of stores at Palmetto Park Road and Federal Highway seem to have a hint of new life; the traffic is building.

And herein lies the irony. It is at precisely this moment that many in Boca Raton are outraged at the surge in development.

Their “friendly little town” is being obliterated by demonic developers who have the city council and the planning and zoning department in their pockets. There’s no parking and more congestion, the buildings are ugly, and no one is listening.

It would be heartbreaking if it were not déjà vu all over again.

There was a time, in 1972, during an unprecedented growth surge, when Boca Raton sought to limit growth in the city to a maximum of 40,000 units, an action that was struck down by the courts in 1979.

Like many Florida cities, Boca had wanted to pull up the anchor and

hang a sign on the city limits that said, “Sorry, we’re full.”

It’s a sentiment I can relate to, having grown up in Florida during a building boom in the 1960s that ushered in a whole new era for the state. Development was king, canals were dredged, ranch houses were built, suburbia sprawled, and no one looked back. It was the start of the big pave–over and now, decades later, the southern part of Florida has become an urban megapolis.

So what now? Millions of people will keep coming, and they will settle here, in this place we love. We can’t keep spinning out suburbia; that is death to the environment and to the Glades. We might have to accept that we now live in a city, and that people will be living as they do in cities—very close to one another.

There is no easy way to apply sound growth management when a great deal of money and people are at stake. And in Florida, big development has almost always prevailed, right or wrong. But Florida everglades I, for one, think we have much bigger fish to fry now than the massive apartment buildings in downtown Boca. The bigger issues on my list (in no particular order) are saving our water and the Everglades, making accommodations for sea-level rise, preserving our agricultural land and curbing ocean pollution.

I can relate to the loss of the small town, and the way things were.

I’ve been watching those things disappear since I was a kid. But I suggest there is something darker we need to really watch now, and that is the much bigger picture. The urbanization train may have left the station, but we don’t have to allow it to lay tracks through what is left of our natural world. bocamag.com follow the leader

|

191

my turn

[ by john shuff ]

Birthday Wishes A few thoughts on my history of time.

I

celebrated my 75th birthday a few months ago. little tarnished. Or, as one old buddy said, “The biggest lie I tell myself is That’s not a typo.

I that I don’t need to write it down.”

Seventy-five.

For me, it’s not all bad; just different. Going for an “early bird speI keep looking at that number and wondering how that could cial” means you can be in bed by 8 p.m., which I now regard as a happen, how it got here so quickly. It seems like just a few years good thing. Taking a nap in the afternoon ensures that you won’t fall ago that I married Margaret Mary and we began a new life asleep during dinner. You and your wife never order a whole entrée, together. We were in New York and Connecticut, and it was just yesand finishing a beer takes an hour. Martinis are no longer my favorite terday we moved here to Boca Raton to launch this magazine. Where recreation, and the movie cashier never has to ask if you want a senior did all those years go? When did youth turn into middle age and then ticket. I drop things constantly due to arthritis in my hands. And lastly, middle age start casting those longer shadows I see today?

I suffer from the old person’s lament: “I remember the old days when I find myself shuffling through old picthings were so much better.” tures more and more often, just to see if I have few regrets, aside from the mulit was real, that it was me back then with tiple sclerosis that I’ve lived with for 40 an infant in my arms, or swinging a golf years. I wouldn’t wish this disease on a club or dancing with Margaret Mary at a dog, but when I’ve visited hospitals and benefit at the Waldorf. rehab centers I’ve seen so much pain and I remember celebrating my dad’s 75th suffering that my problem often seems in Cincinnati in 1980 like it was yesterinsignificant. My heart cries for children day. Mom put the party together and inwho suffer from debilitating diseases, vited all his sidekicks, most of whom I’d knowing that they will never experience known as a young boy. I remember at the life as I have. party thinking how old they were, how I All the aging talk aside, when I look would never be that old, that my future at my Margaret Mary, who has stood by was a day from now, and a day after that. and with me for 52 years, I see a piece of From left: John shuff, David shuff, molly shuff roche, James And yet, here I am, the same age as those stained glass, a face as beautiful and raroche, margaret mary shuff, and madeline and Chloe roche men at my father’s birthday party, a little diant as the day I first met her. She is the dazed, a little uncertain about what it means. What the next chapter is, cornerstone of our family, and I thank her every day for being the perhow this one turns out. son she has been to all of us. She has made life as rich as I could have As I looked around my own birthday party, I saw the men I had known hoped, despite the fact that it’s speeding up all the time. for 30-some years, but things had changed. I saw them moving more Andy Rooney said it pretty well: “Life is like a roll of toilet paper: The slowly, many with snow-white hair, some in walkers and wheelchairs. faster it goes, the closer to the end it gets.”

Others in my circle suffer from Alzheimer’s or cancer or some oddball So live it up, savor the moment; tell people what they mean to you. disease that has 12 letters in its name. Bottom line is that the Fountain of And, Margaret Mary, the next time you go to Costco, please buy the Youth has apparently gone dry in this crowd, and the Golden Years are a supersized rolls of toilet paper. I need all the help I can get.

192

|

bocamag.com july/august 2015

Lucky Charms Mini Watch, pink gold and diamonds, guilloch茅 dial.

Haute Joaillerie, place Vend么me since 1906

BAL HARBOUR - 9700 Collins Avenue - 305-866-0899 BOCA RATON - 308 North Plaza Real - 561-955-8802 PALM BEACH - 202 Worth Avenue - 561-655-6767 vancleefarpels.com