Boca magazine July/August 2021 by JES Media

FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN: SUMMER LIVING

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We get reel with RJ Boyle, fisherman, artist, nightclub impresario and baseballer, whose life story has us captured hook, line and … you know the rest.

We shake off the remnants of a traumatic year—while toasting the food movements, change makers and developing stories helping to ensure a bright horizon for Boca and beyond.

The Boca Interview

CALLA KESSLER/THE PALM BEACH POST VIA ZUMA WIRE

By JAMES BIAGIOTTI

Best of Boca

By JAMES BIAGIOTTI, MARIE SPEED and JOHN THOMASON

South Florida remains one of the world’s most precarious regions for climate disruption. Three experts in meteorology and climatology discuss how we got here and what can be done to quell the rising tides.

In our special design section, outdoor spaces take center stage. Discover the tips, trends, products and innovators making a splash this sun-soaked season.

Winds of Change

By JAMES BIAGIOTTI and JOHN THOMASON

Florida Style & Design: Pool, Patio & Summer

By ROBIN HODES

Eduardo Mendieta was the artist behind the new mural at Mizner Park Amphitheater (Best of Boca, page 54)

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152

20 Editor’s Letter

125 Eat & Drink

152 Hometown Hero

Hurricanes schmurricanes: Having emerged from a pandemic hardier than ever, we’re more than ready for whatever surprises Mother Nature has in store.

In her first issue for Boca magazine, our new food critic reviews Avalon Steak and Seafood in Delray Beach and Skyfin Asian Bistro in Boca Raton. Plus, dogthemed menus and happy hours are a pet project for several SoFla restaurants, and why local honey is turning up in more than just tea.

Now in her sixth decade of charitable involvement in Boca Raton—and her ninth decade on Earth—Helen Babione’s dedication to her adopted city continues.

By MARIE SPEED

23 The Local We catch up with a charitable icon with impeccable fashion sense, an octogenarian artist in the throes of her most prolific period, and an enterprising vodka brand with a simian sensibility. Plus, essential Florida beach reads, the wildlife wonders of Captiva Island, and more.

By CHRISTIE GALEANO-MOTT and LYNN KALBER

146 Social

This season’s shoes go for the gold, and blues dominate summer accessories— while more muted tones lend inconspicuous elegance to the hottest travel gear.

This past spring, a West Palm Beach nonprofit paired military veterans with therapy pooches, the Pink Fight Club launched a colorful battle against breast cancer, and the Boys & Girls Clubs and the Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea gave back to those in need.

Photography by AARON BRISTOL

By JAMES BIAGIOTTI

By MARIE SPEED and JOHN THOMASON

32 The Look

By JOHN THOMASON

120 Backstage Pass A fixture on South Florida public radio for more than 25 years, Tracy Fields entertains and educates nocturnal listeners on the jazz of the past, present and future. By JOHN THOMASON

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Web Extras

Visit bocamag.com for bonus items you won’t see anywhere else—extended stories, recipes, news and more.

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Don’t miss Boca on everything from FACEBOOK (facebook.com/bocamag) to INSTAGRAM (@bocamag) and TWITTER (@bocamag) for community news, retail trends, foodie updates and much more.

Tracy Fields

ALL THAT JAZZ

WLRN DJ Tracy Fields discusses her lifelong commitment to jazz on page 120. To discover her recommendations for the best spots to hear live jazz in South Florida, visit bocamag.com/july-august-2021.

THE AMBASSADOR

In this month’s Boca Interview (see page 48), local fishing legend RJ Boyle waxes nostalgic about his time running The Ambassador, a biker bar that doubled as the hub of South Florida’s alternative music scene. For more on what he called the“CBGBs of SoFla”and the artists that played there, visit bocamag.com/july-august-2021.

City Watch

Boca Raton is anything but sleepy, and Randy Schultz is the go-to for all the city politics, development and business news you need to know. For updates delivered straight to your email every Tuesday and Thursday, visit the City Watch tab on our website. RJ Boyle

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Best Bites Think our dining guide is long? You haven’t seen anything until you’ve visited our digital version. We’ve got critic-reviewed restaurants from Jupiter to Miami on the web. Visit the food tab to view the guide.

Join the Club: Be a Member We’ve curated a brandnew membership program tailored just for our loyal readers! We’re redefining what it means to be a subscriber by introducing experiences that go beyond the pages of our magazine. Register at bocamag.com to join this exclusive group and start enjoying a wide array of special discounts, events, giveaways, and more throughout South Florida.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

“There’s nothing like sitting across from a client and saying, you’re going to be okay, and here are the numbers in black and white”

THE LOCAL

GIVER

Serving the Order Isabelle Paul has led the good fight for years as commander of the Order of St. John

[The Order of St. John] is not a charity; we help charities. We are a chivalry order. Our mission is to help the sick and the poor. I like to help the poorest of the poor.” — Isabelle Paul

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’d seen her for years, at this or that event. Posture ramrod straight, her jetblack hair with its distinctive white streak swept up in a French twist, and the sleeves. The sleeves, invariably fashioned with tiny puffs along the shoulder seams. And it was those sleeves I was most curious about. I finally met Isabelle Paul for lunch, mostly to talk to her about the charitable Order of St. John, of which she is commander. “It’s one of the oldest organizations of the world; it goes back to the Crusades,”she told me.“We are not a charity; we help charities. We are a chivalry order. Our mission is to help the sick and the poor; I like to help the poorest of the poor.” The order is formally known as The Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitalier, and is based in Malta. It describes itself as“an Order of Chivalry dedicated to the service of all humanity in the name of Christ. It is an ecumenical, international Christian order directly descended from the Order of St. John founded by the Blessed Gerard in the late 11th century.” Paul was tapped to join by the late Countess Henrietta de Hoernle, herself a dame in the order, and she was later“asked by Malta”to start a Florida branch, which she has led since 2011. Paul has always been involved in philanthropy; she and her late husband, Lawrence Maxwell Paul, were benefactors of many charities, including the Mayo Clinic, Salvation Army, World Vision International and more. They met at a Montego Bay,

Jamaica, resort he owned and had a long-distance romance (she lived in Canada and he was from Cincinnati) for a time until they married. Lawrence was a successful developer and also manufactured parts for the space program and the Polaris submarine. The couple “traveled the world”and lived for a time in Bal Harbour before buying a house in Royal Palm in Boca Raton in 1977. Ten years later, when Lawrence died, Paul found herself at a particular axis in her life. “After my husband passed away in 1987,” she says,“I decided I was going to dedicate the rest of my life working for the lord. Because that’s what I want to do. I’ve always been very spiritual. “I was very charitable before he died, and I was not interested in remarrying. I was interested in carrying on the mission I felt comfortable with.” That mission has wound its way throughout Boca Raton, from board positions at the Friends of the Conservatory of Music, Lynn University and Debbie-Rand, to St. Gergory’s Episcopal Church, Boca Helping Hands and more. But her biggest impact is the one she delivers through The Order; the list of 25 well-known charities it has helped so far include HomeSafe, Place of Hope, Caridad Center, Covenant House, Cross Ministries, Association of Caregiving Youth and many, many more. “I feel wonderful helping other people,” Paul says.“This entails a lot of work, and it involves many hours, but I took an oath when I became a member

of The Order of St. John, and I just feel like I should live up to that oath.” Paul has stories about Billy Graham, and the time the late virtuoso pianist Roger Williams bequeathed a special Steinway to her, which she donated to Lynn Conservatory (she admits she’s no piano player herself). She also has an interest in painting porcelain and, more recently, religious icons. It is this artistic side to her that brings us back to those sleeves, which I have to know about once and for all. “I design my own clothes,” she says, when I ask, slipping off her light sweater to reveal tiny puffed sleeves underneath. “I like a certain style. I don’t care what Bill Blass does or Gucci or whoever does. … The dressmaker I have right now—I’ve worked with her for years—is very good. I think I’ve bought one dress in the last 50 years.” Paul admits to loving beautiful fabrics and preferring ladylike, feminine clothing, but she really thinks her work with The Order is far more interesting. Before we go, she touches the shimmering gold Maltese cross she is wearing. “I designed this cross,” she says.“My husband had a very heavy wedding band, and I thought rather than it just being there … I took it to the jeweler and I said, ‘Could you melt it down?’ And I designed this cross. The ruby is from a ring he bought me when we were on our honeymoon in Beirut, Lebanon. We were going around the world. So it has some meaning now.”

AARON BRISTOL

Written by MARIE SPEED

July/August 2021

6/8/21 3:48 PM

Isabelle Paul at home

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THE LOCAL

EXPERT

After the Storm

FAU professor Monica Escaleras on how economies respond—or not—to natural calamities Written by JOHN THOMASON

C One way to help people bounce back is to educate them to have hazard insurance. ... in the U.S., around only 12 percent of individuals have flood insurance. ... individuals in the low- and middle-income brackets don’t have the funds to rebuild. —Monica Escaleras

limatologists, storm trackers and meteorologists thrive on prediction and crisis. They are the pundits of the “before” and “during” aspects of a natural disaster. But what about the aftershocks— figurative as well as literal? Monica Escaleras, professor of economics at Florida Atlantic University, has devoted much of her study to the cultural inequities and financial fractures that disasters like hurricanes leave in their wake. In 2016, the native Ecuadorian co-wrote a paper on “Public Sector Corruption and Natural Hazards,”where she explored how corrupt practices in the construction industry worsened disaster outcomes in developing countries. Her work hit closer to home, in South Florida, with a 2019 research paper, completed with three colleagues, about the economic fallout from Hurricane Irma. She discusses some of that paper’s key takeaways, and more. On her entry into disaster management: In Ecuador in 1986, we had a really strong earthquake, and I lived through that experience. I was 16 at the time. My dad is a doctor, and he made sure our house was under code. And our house didn’t suffer a thing. We went five, 10 blocks down the road, and the houses were completely collapsed. It caught my attention in seeing how there was a big inequality in how the natural disaster affected the different sectors of the economy, as well as individuals. On solutions to recover from destructive hurricanes: One way to help people bounce back is to educate them to have hazard insurance. We found that in the U.S., around only 12 percent of individuals have flood insurance. So once again, individuals that are in the low-income or middle-income [brackets] don’t have the funds to rebuild. The other takeaway is disaster assistance. FEMA gives out funds to individuals to rebuild and to upgrade. From our study, we found that at least 30 percent of individuals that applied for funds were denied. They also found the loan process to be difficult. Especially here in Florida, we have individuals from different backgrounds. Perhaps English is not their first language. They have a hard time navigating the application for these funds. One of our recommendations at the end of the paper is to make the process smoother, with more information on how that can be done. Another takeaway is that infrastructure services such as disruption to electricity, internet and cell phones delay the recovery of individuals. And there’s some research indicating that perhaps policymakers should consider helping the infrastructure of electricity in the rural areas.

Monica Escaleras

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On the politics of disaster assistance: We all have to come together to find a solution, especially now that we have climate change. ... All of us want the best for the environment. All of us have to come together. That’s the only way we can get out of the problems that Florida is facing.

AARON BRISTOL

On similarities between natural disaster and pandemic response: I have my phone and can sign up for alerts. I think there should be other ways [to get the information]. ... It’s the same thing with the vaccine. The information is not in one place; it is not getting to the minorities and the most vulnerable.

July/August 2021

LOCAL expert Escaleras JA21.indd 30

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THE LOCAL

THE LOOK

Gold Standard A touch of gold gilds summer shoes

ISABELLA KRON gold & black sandal, $410, Isabella Kron, Delray Beach White mule, $100, Wish and Shoes, Delray Beach CHANEL logo mule, $1,100, Saks Boca Raton

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Styling by Jenna DeBrino/ Hot Pink Style

AARON BRISTOL

DOLCE & GABBANA bag, $1,745, Saks Boca Raton

5/27/21 4:10 PM

THE LOCAL

THE LOOK

Go Time

It’s easy traveling with these neutral yet stylish accessories

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July/August 2021

6/8/21 10:38 AM

BACIAMI dress, $350, Baciami Moda, Boca Raton DIOR sandals, $730, Saks Boca Raton RAG & BONE hat, $225, Saks Boca Raton Palm tree sequin bag, $165, Unique Boutique, Delray Beach ISABELLA KRON swimsuit top, $120, bottom, $75, Isabella Kron, Delray Beach ISABELLA KRON leopard clutch, $240, Isabella Kron, Delray Beach CHOPARD sunglasses, $850, Grove Opticians, Boca Raton

July/August 2021

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THE LOCAL

THE LOOK

Singing the Blues

Blue is another new neutral defining summer looks

PORSCHE DESIGN blue tinted aviators, $650, Grove Opticians, Boca Raton

AARON BRISTOL

Phython sneaker, $255, Wish and Shoes Delray Beach

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BURBERRY bucket hat, $460, Saks Boca Raton ISABELLA KRON blue leopard scarf, $195, Isabella Kron, Delray Beach

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July/August 2021

5/27/21 4:10 PM

THE LOCAL

THE LOOK

Ring Tones

A few bold earthy rings lend an edgy natural note to jewelry

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Gold band, $185, Isabella Kron, Delray Beach Pearl with gold band, $65, Unique Boutique, Delray Beach Rhinestone with silver band, $375, Unique Boutique, Delray Beach Pearl with square top, $115, Unique Boutique, Delray Beach Black and silver with pearl, $95, Unique Boutique, Delray Beach Horn brass ring with gold, $150, Isabella Kron, Delray Beach

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5/27/21 4:10 PM

Saadia I. Mohammed, D.D.S Pediatric Dentistry

nspired by her father’s encouragement, Dr. Saadia Mohammed found her calling as Boca Raton’s first female Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. For the last 20 years she has been providing compassionate and comprehensive pediatric dental care while banishing the fear most children feel regarding dental visits and procedures.

DENTAL SCHOOL: New York University; Ortho honors program; Dean’s Research Award; Honors Clinic GENERAL PRACTICE RESIDENCY: Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach PEDIATRIC DENTAL SPECIALTY TRAINING: University of Connecticut; Chief resident; Craniofacial Team

CHRIS SALATA

PEDIATRIC DENTAL FELLOWSHIP: Pediatric Dentistry, Yale New Haven Hospital; Craniofacial Team Children’s Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut

“The goal in founding Palm Beach Pediatric Dentistry was simply to create a better patient experience. Our practice focuses on identifying the root cause of tooth decay, which the number one chronic childhood disease which afflicts our children today. Restoring balance and harmony of the mouth to nurture happy and healthy smiles for a lifetime is my Ikigai,” Dr. Mohammed explains. “Through nurturing and modelling, along with tools and cutting edge laser technology we have in our toolbox, we are able to calm the fears most children experience going to the dentist. Through our efforts, we are able to manage 95% of patients without administering any sedation other than nitrous oxide. They walk out smiling without even realizing they have had a bunch of cavities filled,” says Dr. Mohammed. Dr. Mohammed is also a renowned expert performing the surgical procedure to reverse Ankyloglossia, commonly referred to as a ‘tongue-tie’. The process, called a frenectomy, removes the connecting tissue, allowing the tongue to move freely, which is imperative for a child’s ability to breastfeed, eat solid food, even sleep and speak. “I am humbled every time parents let me know how our process has transformed their child’s life ” she says.

Palm Beach Pediatric Dentistry • 9250 Glades Rd. #212, Boca Raton, FL 33434 • 561-477-3535 • pbpdcares.com

THE LOCAL

ARTIST

From Spaceship Earth

Mira Lehr, champion of women artists and friend of Gaia, finds her eighth decade to be her most prolific When I went to work for Bucky Fuller, I became aware of the scarcity syndrome, where people were worried about not having enough to go around. ... He talked about doing more with less. ... I wanted to help solve those problems.” —Mira Lehr

t 85, Mira Lehr is old enough to remember a time when the world wasn’t as equitable to artists of her gender. When the Miami native moved to New York in the 1950s to pursue an art history degree from Vassar, she encountered a notoriously macho contemporary art scene. For female artists like herself and Joan Mitchell, sometimes the route to survival meant speaking the men’s language. “The women were very testy,” Lehr recalls.“Joan Mitchell had a potty mouth you wouldn’t believe. She’d go down to the senior bar, and I think somebody grabbed her breast, and she reached behind and squeezed the guy’s testicles so hard, he screamed. And nobody ever messed with her again.” Lehr’s time in New York was short-lived. She would forge her legacy, both behind and in front of the canvas, in Miami Beach,

Above, “The Protectors,” Lehr’s Mangrove Labyrinth; right, the artist with her large-scale work “Norweky”

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returning in 1960 to a cultural scene she describes as “an absolute desert.” She promptly founded Continuum, one of the nation’s first co-ops for women artists, launching many a career and cultivating the region’s nascent art community. She eventually earned the sobriquet “The Godmother of Miami’s Art Scene.” “I didn’t think I would have any influence like that,”she says, in the sitting room of her parents’ historic house on Miami Beach.“I just did what I did to create an environment that I could be happy in, and it turned out it helped the whole area. I never thought I’d be called the godmother. … It’s not how I think of myself, believe me.” In addition to serving other artists, Lehr gradually developed her own artistic voice, one that is rooted in, but not shackled, to those ‘50s pioneers of abstraction, and that resonates with a subtext of ecological awareness. In 1969, she participated in influential futurist Buckminster Fuller’s “World Game,”in which she was among 26 thinkers tasked with envisioning a scenario in which the world’s resources were deployed for the mutual benefit of all. “I always worked from nature,” she says.“But when I went to work for Bucky Fuller, I became aware of the scarcity syndrome, where people were worried about not having enough to go around. He talked about doing more with less. … I did recognize more problems that were happening, and I wanted to help solve those problems.” Lehr’s collage work has reflected the worsening climate change since Fuller’s utopian project. Pieces like “What This Earth Does Not Remember” feature tectonically connected landmasses that

resemble global maps of alternate timelines, vaguely familiar formations constructed from burned and dyed Japanese paper atop a painted canvas. The material itself is fragile, a perfect metaphor for an environment under carbon siege. This work was among the highlights of“Planetary Visions,” an exhibition of Lehr’s this past winter at Rosenbaum Contemporary in Boca. It followed a run of recognition over the past three years that included a permanent, 183-piece installation at the Jewish Museum of Florida, and exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami and the Mennello Museum in Orlando, which earned a rave from the New York Times. An enormous sculpture of twisty mangroves from the Mennello show, created from steel armature and blowtorched marine rope, sits next to her pool, blending in with the natural fauna. Lehr has been prolific in terms of creating such epochal pieces. In her Miami Beach home, she moves around with a cane, and three assistants and her daughter help with some of the more laborious aspects. But, as she says,“I work all the time. It’s all I do.”When asked why the past few years have been so productive, she says:“I’m old. And the years are passing very quickly. I want to get it all in before I kick off.” Despite all the attention she has received of late, Lehr still worries about being relevant. “I don’t know where I fit in,” she says, in an art world taken by whimsy. “I’m trying to do fine art that has meaning throughout the ages, stuff that people aren’t so concerned about anymore. I feel like I’m a relic, but an important relic.”

MICHAEL E. FRYD

Written by JOHN THOMASON

July/August 2021

5/27/21 4:33 PM

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July/August 2021

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THE LOCAL

ENTREPRENEURS

Anatomy of a Brand An idea becomes real monkey business in West Palm Beach Written by MARIE SPEED

nly a few years ago, some local West Palm guys— Alex Kowtun, Frank Gomez and Seth Goldberg—came up with the idea to launch a high-end spirit brand—Monkey in Paradise vodka—a “millennial’s fantasy” that initially “combines an award-winning vodka with viral social media accounts and accepts Bitcoin as a payment option for online merchandise,” according to a 2017 article in the Palm Beach Daily News. But it didn’t all start with vodka. It actually started with those little plastic monkeys people used to put on the rims of tropical drink glasses, monkeys Kow-

Pace, who joined the company about 16 months ago, has brand development cred that includes a stint with Ogilvy & Mather and brands such as Grey Goose, Pallini Limoncello, Absolut, Ithaca Beer, Narraganset, Goslings Rum, Rumchata and Jaeger. He was determined to reposition the brand, differentiating it from others on the shelves and getting the word out. “To me, it has to be a very strong product,” he says.“[Monkey in Paradise vodka] is made with 100-percent American corn; it’s sugar-free, carb-free and gluten-free. It is seven times distilled; distillation for you and I

charming and mischevious and approachable. The monkey’s cute, and you can define your own paradise. Vodka is a very malleable spirit; you can drink it with tonic, cranberry, soda, martinis, rocks, up. Monkey in Paradise for us might mean South Florida, but that’s the beauty of a tagline that says Find your Paradise. For you and I, it could be beach or a boat in South Florida, but for others it might be on a mountainside or on a golf course…” Pace also redesigned the packaging from a “transparent” look that made it disappear on the shelf, to a bright new logo (yes, monkey included). Next

AARON BRISTOL

Monkey In Paradise is sort of mercurial and fun...charming and mischevious and approachable. The monkey’s cute and you can define your own paradise.”

Peter Pace

tun revived as cocktail markers, followed by creating actual social media accounts for the monkeys. That somehow morphed into the vodka idea, and Monkey in Paradise was born. After winning awards from the World Spirits Competition, in late 2017 the trio approached veteran spirits industry top gun Patrick McGeeney to serve as CEO and CFO, operate and develop the company, raise capital, establish a national distributor network, and recruit a national sales team. Industry veteran Frank Sacca was tapped as executive vice president of national sales, and Peter Pace was hired as chief marketing officer. In early 2020, the company acquired Blue Nectar Tequila and formed Paradise Brands to market both brands to the alcoholic beverage industry.

is a cleansing process—to give it a smoothness on the palate.” And Pace knows a trend when he sees one; the American-made artisan spirit is hot right now— and Pace is all over it. “When I was a kid, it was Smirnoff, and then came all the European imports like Absolut, Ketel One, Grey Goose, Finlandia. You had 10 to 12 powerhouse vodkas. Tito pivots that and says, ‘I can make a great vodka here. I can make it in Texas.’ And we are part of that trend. Just because we’re American doesn’t mean we can’t make a great artisanal product.” Pace also wanted to capitalize on the name and the connotation it evokes. “Monkey in Paradise as a name, as a package, is sort of mercurial and fun, sort of

was “articulating its positioning” to distributors and retailers, and getting consumers to actually taste it, or “liquid to lips,” as Pace calls it. Although the pandemic put a damper on live tasting events, the brand pivoted to serious digital outreach and ecommerce and is now poised to start swinging from state to state. “We have to reinvigorate the emotional connections of the brand,” he says, adding “consumer demand is outstanding.” McGeeney says the company grew in 2017 from a few hundred cases in Florida to being in more than 25 states today with projections for later this year of 50,000 cases. It seems a lot more people are venturing out this year to find their paradise. Pace just hopes that comes with a monkey.

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THE LOCAL

WORTH THE TRIP

Animal Kingdom

Live the wild life at Captiva’s South Seas Island Resort

Clockwise, from top left, a manatee visitor, Captiva island, the beachside pool and a room with a view at the resort

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y virgin attempt at standup paddleboarding did not go as planned. I might as well have been on stilts as I rose, tembling, on the board provided by Island Adventures, the on-site water sports vendor at Captiva’s South Seas Island Resort. Part of the board was still on the sand, and I still couldn’t keep my balance. The slightly choppy seas did not inspire further confidence. “I’d rather not fall in the water,”I said to my experienced handler from Island Adventures.“If you can’t stand up now, you probably won’t be able to stand in the water,”he replied, guidance that managed to sound both tactful and direct. On my knees I would remain. And so, crouched but persistent, I paddled myself into the undulating Gulf waters and, once removed from the beachfront chatter, settled into a kind of Zen. The only sounds piercing the dead quiet of this April morning were the sloshing of the water against the board and the wings of a seabird, which flapped a stone’s throw above my head. And then came the proverbial money shot: Sunlight sparking off the water, and the dorsal fins of two dolphins cresting maybe 50 yards ahead—once, twice, then three times. As far as I could tell, nobody else saw the cameo, which seemed tailored for my eyes only, and it left me slack-jawed and briefly unable to paddle. It’s a good thing I was sitting down. Yet, as I would learn, this sighting, on the first morning of a three-night stay at the longtime Captiva

anchor, is fairly commonplace at South Seas. The sprawling property, at the north end of the island off the Southwest coast of Florida, comprises two of Captiva’s six miles, and it was built around a 330-acre preserve that teems with wildlife. One of the dolphins I spotted may have been “Chip,” a South Seas regular, so named because of the V-shaped chip in his fin; he’s become something of an unofficial mascot. Additionally, brown marsh hares linger around the periphery of the resort’s green spaces throughout the day, as unafraid of human contact as the bolder squirrels of Southeast Florida. Regal ospreys build nests on the palm trees and keep vigil from atop the hotel. Pelicans perch on posts, stoic as sculptures. Great blue herons alight often at sunrises and sunsets; because of the resort’s semicircular position, guests can take in both from its twin beachfronts. Then there are the manatees, staking their places amid the shallow waters of the on-site marina, poking their noses up from the olive murk (the marina is decidedly not among the swimmable areas of the resort). Sometimes, these gentle giants like to play with the jets of water streaming from the holes at the bottom of the bobbing vessels, lying on their backs and drinking it in. For human animals that enjoy the water, the amenities at South Seas are pretty much endless, and all can be enjoyed steps from the Harbourside Hotel at the resort’s North End. Parasailing, banana boat and

ALASTAIR POLLOCK PHOTOGRAPHY; SAMMY TODD DYESS

Written by JOHN THOMASON

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Harbourside bar

DINING AT SOUTH SEAS

Fresh and local seafood is a signature at most of the South Seas’ six restaurants. They include: HABOURSIDE BAR AND GRILL: On the waterfront, the resort’s most upscale restaurant specializes in culinary theatrics like smoked bourbon served out of a glass case and “yacht line” candied bacon, served on clothespins with accompanying maple syrup and black pepper, and bruleed tableside with a torch. DOC FORD’S RUM BAR AND GRILLE: This classic, occasionally rowdy bar and restaurant is inspired by the title character in Randy Wayne White’s best-selling mysteries. Its selection of rums is exhaustive. THE POINTE: In the Resort Pool Complex, this casual lunch and dinner spot offers lean, almost-sorta-healthy dishes. Order them to be delivered to your nearby pool cabana, and enjoy them with comfortable chairs, flatscreen and cold drink selection.

MAX KELLY

WaveRunner rentals, in addition to paddleboarding, are on the menu from Island Adventures, all clustered around a fishing dock and a pool complex with a waterslide. There’s also sunrise yoga, a capacious fitness center, a spa and the Captiva Golf Course. Alternative delights await at the South End of the property, which includes tennis courts and shops. Part of the ideal South Seas experience involves leaving the resort: The on-site Captiva Cruises features five-to-six-hour narrated voyages to nearby islands, including Boca Grande, Useppa and Cayo Costa State Park. I joined a cruise to Cabbage Key, a 100-acre speck purchased by its original owners for all of $2,500. We disembarked at the Key’s sole attraction: a historic home converted into an inn and restaurant, one of many places in South Florida attributed as the site where Jimmy Buffett wrote“Cheeseburger in Paradise.” More impressive is the restaurant’s interior, in which dollar bills—including one signed by Buffett— are duct-taped over every inch of wall space and dangle precariously from the ceiling, a tradition that dates back to a time when fishermen would leave dollar bills as lines of credit. (Ten to fifteen thousand dollars fall to the floor each year, and are then donated to local charities.) But it was a moment en route back from Cabbage Key, as the boat neared the resort on our final afternoon, that brought the festivities full circle. A dolphin crested near the forward side of the vessel, attentive eyes gazing in the direction of 1 o’clock. As the boat drew closer to the harbor, so too did the dolphin, ducking and weaving around and under the boat, traveling with us like a trained performer. This is about the time somebody noticed the V shape in its dorsal fin. It was Chip, resident South Seas mascot, seeing us off in style.

Above and right, Cabbage Key

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THE BOCA INTERVIEW

Renaissance fisherman i For decades, RJ Boyle has been one of the faces of South Florida’s fishing community, but there’s more to this local mariner than meets the eye Written by JAMES BIAGIOTTI

in Lighthouse Point, where he sells bait and tackle, popular branded merchandise and his own artwork. Now in its third location, the studio boasts some of Boyle’s most prized catches on the walls, along with his artwork and a healthy amount of swordfish bills; it also serves as home base for a lucrative video studio. As if that wasn’t enough, the storefront’s walls boast hundreds of photos, any number of which show Boyle posing with what would be a casual fisherman’s prized catch. From humble beginnings as a part-time mate on local fishing boats to the brains—and name—behind a South Florida fishing empire, Boyle has parlayed his considerable talents into the creation of a world all his own, and in the process cemented himself as something of a salty local legend. Earlier this year, Boyle chatted with Boca magazine to discuss his many trades, share some epic fishing anecdotes, and tell us what drives him.

AARON BRISTOL

t’s easy to get lost in the fables of RJ Boyle. Born and reared in South Florida, Boyle is the man who could throw a 90-mile-per-hour fastball, book cutting-edge alternative music artists to play at his dive bar, reel in a 200-pound swordfish, and then create an exquisite work of art depicting his catch. For an outsider, it’s easy to see him as more myth than man, but to the SoFla fishing community, he’s just RJ. Bespectacled and towering at an imposing 6-foot-4, Boyle is an affable guy whose presence belies his stature as a jack-of-all-trades, master of most. His path has taken him from art school to minor league baseball, from bar owner to globe-trotting fisherman, and now to business owner and elder statesman of the local fishing community. For nearly 20 years, he has been the owner of RJ Boyle Studio

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RJ Boyle under a prize swordfish catch

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THE BOCA INTERVIEW

How did you get started fishing? I’m a native, I was born here. I have five brothers and sisters, and my older brother actually grew up fishing at the Hillsborough Inlet, working on a boat called the Helen S. And that was back in the day when fishing was a way of life in South Florida. It’s much different now than it was then. Back then, at 5 o’clock, you’d have half of Florida waiting in line to buy fish. My father wasn’t huge into fishing, so I would have to credit my brother for the inspiration behind getting into it. So it started at an early age. When I was 6 to 10 years old, I was riding along with him—sometimes, especially in the summer, for three trips a day. One of the things I’ve always said is,“Keep the boys away from fishing if you don’t want them to end up being fishermen.” Meaning: The minute you get paid to do something you love, it can be a problem, because now it’s tough to go do regular jobs. Once I had that taste of getting paid to do something I love, it never changed for me.

And did you immediately launch into a fishing career once you finished school? That came after baseball. Baseball was always my first love, but I didn’t make it. I played in the minor leagues, but I just wasn’t good enough. I wasn’t a student of the game.

AARON BRISTOL

I’ve heard some tall tales about you throwing 90-mile-per-hour fastballs in high school.

RJ with some of his artwork at RJ Boyle Studio

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I was, but my glasses were so thick that I had absolutely no idea where the ball was going. So I struck out half the batters just on sheer terror. I wasn’t that good at knowing how to pitch. I was good at throwing hard and getting people out, but it doesn’t work in the minor leagues where everybody can throw hard. So when I graduated out of that mindset, it all became fishing and artwork.

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You also ran a rock club after college, right? Man, what a time that was. The Ambassador was the name of the bar. It was a neighborhood bar. My aunt owned it—it was a biker bar—and it was so hardcore there were iron bars on the inside of the windows so people wouldn’t get thrown through the windows from the inside. I had just finished playing baseball and I was helping out. My dad had just passed away, my mom was trying to run a furniture store, and my aunt who owned the bar got sick. And one of my responsibilities was to start taking care of that bar and make sure everything was okay. So I started going over there and, long story short, one of my friends tells me,“Hey man, we should really have a progressive music night here.”We handed out flyers at the beach, and that Friday night there were maybe 600 people in line trying to get in. I never went back to baseball. I bought the liquor license from my aunt and we started booking bands every single night. … Bands that at the time might’ve cost us a couple thousand dollars, but

“It’s been an exciting ride, and I feel like I’m 53 going on about 103, because I’ve done more cool stuff than almost anybody that I know. And I would say that God’s given me the ability to do that, and the talents to be able to do that.” — RJ Boyle

RJ on the water with a massive swordfish catch

like we did. I was a 22- or 23-year-old kid owning a club, and I never went to court once in four years. It was complete controlled mayhem, and people just loved it.

After baseball and the Ambassador, did you find yourself becoming an artist before you were starting to fish professionally, or did they happen together? then they went on to make it huge. It was a time in alternative music where we were like the CBGBs of South Florida. And for a four-anda-half year period, we entertained with some of the best music in the

world. We had a lot of crazy, crazy bands.You never knew what you were going to see. Was it a great reggae band or the Impotent Sea Snakes? [Yes, that is a real band. -Ed.] You could never pull that off again

RJ in his baseball days

I was always an artist. I had grown up being into art, and then life took over. I was an art major in college, but when you’re in college, you’re doing sculpture and all these other things that I didn’t really care about.

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THE BOCA INTERVIEW

I was more of a painter and an illustrator. Drawing was what I really liked to do. And then once college was done, I kind of lost touch with art until I took a trip to New Mexico. I’ll never forget walking into the galleries and seeing the beautiful paintings and seeing the price tags on some of those pieces and thinking man, I actually may have a shot at this. And so I came back and I never stopped painting and drawing from that time forward.

How did your career as an artist get off the ground?

RJ BOYLE STUDIO 5040 N. Federal Highway, Lighthouse Point, 954/420-5001, RJBOYLESTUDIO. COM

I transitioned from being a parttime mate into a full-time mate on some of the best boats in the world. And I was lucky—locally, some of the best captains come here from around the world. And in my downtime, when I was traveling to the Bahamas and Venezuela, I would do illustrations and paintings or drawings inside the boat, and I would sell them. Then, I started making more money as an artist than I was fishing. So I had fished for several years, and then started making real money selling art out of my van and at fishing tournaments. … And then at some point I

RJ with a Rose fish

transitioned out of fishing full-time and started the store.

How did you transition from selling your art in the fishing community to opening the store?

One of many pieces on display at RJ Boyle Studio

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I started doing art shows around the state of Florida with my mom, and I was making a living. But during the week, I had to put my painting somewhere. So I rented a bay behind Nielsen’s furniture in Deerfield, and my goal was to sell art on the weekends and give art lessons during the week. Then all the fishing guys started coming in saying,“Why don’t you carry fishing tackle?”Then a company contacted me and said, “Hey, we hear you got a good reputation. We’ll give you the tackle up front. And if you sell it, then you pay us.”So all of a sudden I put in some tackle on consignment and all the guys would come in and order tackle

and we built our inventory based on sales. There was never any speculative buying. It was just: If we sold one, we bought two and replaced it. And that’s how we built our inventory. And one thing led to another, and it’s been 17 years having a store.

How do you manage to find the time to get out on the water and fish and still run the business ? I fish almost more now than I ever have. It’s important to stay in the mix. Once you’ve lost touch with the fishing community, on a daily basis, from a catch standpoint, you’re not as effective. So for me, I have two charter boats (Datsnasty and Lisa B). I fish usually two to three times a week. Lisa B sails 250 to 300 trips a year. I also write fishing reports every week. I do a fishing report for the Pelican, and I do one for [105.9-FM].

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53 After all these years, you must have some crazy fishing stories. One of the most memorable things to me was catching one of the biggest tunas of all time: 1,400 pounds. We were in Nova Scotia, and it broke the fighting chair. We used to travel there to catch giant bluefins. And I think the record’s about 1,500 pounds. We caught one just under the record, and we actually let it go. But it was like looking at a Volkswagen bus next to the boat. We caught the biggest fish on rod and reel in Puerto Rico, of all time: 654 pounds. That one’s hanging in the front of the shop. And that’s still the record for the biggest sword caught in Puerto Rico. We flew down to give a seminar, and that was [caught] on the first day there. But from an achievement perspective, I would say the coolest thing for us is that in swordfish tournaments we’ve put more weight on the dock than anybody of all time.

What would you say you’re known for in the fishing world? From a big game fishing perspective, what we’re really known for is being a pioneer of daytime swordfishing. In the modern day era of swordfishing, everybody was fishing at night. Then there was a guy in the keys named Vic Gaspeni, who dropped down and caught one in the daytime. And after I heard about that, I was the first one here, locally, to drop down for swords and figure it out. So if there was one thing that I could credit myself with truly, it’s the technique for daytime swordfishing, the way we do it today, as far as the tackle, the rigging, and how it’s done. From putting it out there to teaching people, that’s our biggest thing right now. When fuel went to five bucks in 2008 and we had the recession, I took a step out of the store and started commercial fishing for swords full-time. That was the beginning of how I learned, and when I was able to give the time to learn the techniques and how to really do it. From

2008 to 2012, I commercially swordfished to make ends meet. And that’s how I got good at it, and then started teaching people how to do it. Now, we have a subscription platform called RJ’s Crew. It’s 250 films on big game fishing, and people sign up and watch. We release a new film every week, and it’s basically all saltwater, tactical and technical stuff for swordfishing and anything big game.

Of all your pursuits, what’s most important to you these days? The most important thing to me

now is the 501(c) that I started. It’s called Mission Fishin’. Every month, we do a kid’s fishing trip for special-needs kids and families. Basically, we give a Saturday and we take them out fishing and get them on the water in some fashion. Being blessed is a wonderful thing, but at some point you’ve got to give back. And to me, it’s not about catching a big fish anymore. I’ve been there and done that, and it’s been wonderful. But now it’s all about giving it back to kids and people that don’t have the opportunities that we have. That’s the focus for the rest of my life, all through fishing.

RJ at work in his studio

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54 AFTER 14 MONTHS OF NEAR-ISOLATION AND A SLOW RETURN TO NORMAL, BOCA AND BEYOND IS BACK—AND BETTER THAN EVER!

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WRITTEN BY JAMES BIAGIOTTI, MARIE SPEED, JOHN THOMASON & OUR MERRY BAND OF PUNDITS AND PRANKSTERS

IT’S BEEN A YEAR LIKE NO OTHER, but our town and our region kept ticking along, making new strides in local development, innovative ideas and the promise of a bright future. Here’s a roundup of the people, places and possibilities that defined 2020-2021—and point to great days ahead. July/August 2021

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56 FOOD & DRINK

BEST NEW DINING TRENDS 1. Curbside pickup is a dream come true.

2. Cocktails in a bag is an idea whose time has come— and we hope it stays.

3. The idea of fast

Steak and seafood from Copperfish

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Copperfish at the Shoppes of Boca Center (where the late great Uncle Tai’s used to be) is already a winner, even though it opened only months before the pandemic began. The sleek high-end restaurant maintains its commitment to“responsibly caught and sustainable”seafood and shellfish, but we are partial to the completely and irresponsibly decadent crab cakes.

casual food gets progressively more refined as what used to be simple takeout items morph into more ambitious dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a deft hand at preparation. Think Flybird’s chicken pot pie, Death By Pizza (Delray), Oliv U Mediterranean bowls, and more.

Meal kits become a thing, as cooking from home assumes a whole new dimension. Buy the fixings already put together to-go at Publix or Fresh Market, or shop around between several delivery options, including Hello Fresh, Fit Food Fresh, Farm to Fork, Meals By Chef B and more!

BEST GO-TO AFTER A LOUSY DAY OF WORK Our crack research team says pizza is hands down the universal comfort food after a bad day—think Dominic’s, Tomasso’s, Augy’s Sicilian, Renzo’s, Dave’s New Haven (the list is endless), but other proven winners are Habit Burger, New York Grilled Cheese, Happy Hour at City Fish Market, the Buffalo sliders with fries at J Marks, radiatore pasta at Max’s Grill. Or a martini. A martini, like pizza, always works.

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The new Joseph’s at Town Center

SIZE MATTERS AWARD A larger and more comprehensive Joseph’s Classic Market moves to Town Center at Boca Raton, this time with outdoor patio seating. Joseph’s already had it all, but this time more is more. The end-all, be-all grocery market has hot and cold prepared foods, a pizzeria, bakery, meats, cheeses, seafood, wine, pastas, you name it.

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57 Cauliflower everything Fish tacos Avocado toast Pork belly Short ribs Re-engineered mac ’n cheese Burrata Bacon Beets and goat cheese salad Fried calimari Sweet potato fries

AARON BRISTOL

MENU ITEMS THAT HAVE JUMPED THE SHARK

Lobster risotto from Oli’s

WORTH A TRY

We know the usual suspects—Trattoria, Arturo’s, La Nouvelle, Kathy’s Gazebo, Max’s, and on and on— but there are a few little unassuming places that slipped onto our radar as well: c Oli’s Fashion Cuisine at The Boardwalk in West Boca is one of the great ones in Boca (there’s one in Wellington as well) with a stellar menu and very, very good food. We love the menu, from imaginative appetizers like grilled avocado wedges and lobster deviled eggs to signature tacos, flatbreads, entrees, bouillabaisse, lobster risotto. There’s a reason this is fashion cuisine; its style is timeless. c Tacowa Korean Barbecue and Taco on east Palmetto Park Road is a yummy find— kimchi everything plus tacos, bowls and a swoon-worthy spicy pork barbecue.

Meatballs from Butcher & Bar

c Press Gourmet Sandwiches in the Polo Shoppes (where TooJays used to be) is a new favorite lunch go-to, started by two Johnson & Wales’ chefs who began with a Miami food truck and migrated up here less than a year ago. Try the Sentinel sandwich, a melty steak and cheese number that is a Philly sub gone to college.

c The Standard in Royal Palm Place is purportedly a new hangout for the younger set with 21 TVs and a menu that speaks to the demo through corresponding favorites like Caesar salad, wings, tater tots, kimchi fries, etc., etc. But there is also Veuve Cliquot at $30 a pop—so we’re not sure this is your typical FAU student.

c Butcher & Bar on East Ocean in Boynton Beach is so worth the short drive. The butcher side has regionally sourced clean meats and poultry, bone broths, side dishes; the bar side offers a changing battery of impossibly good craft sandwiches. Try the classic porchetta or the steak panzanella salad.

c Grelma Bakery at the Shoppes at Logger’s Run is an Italian bakery people are beginning to notice. From bomdini to croissants to pagnotta bread and fresh pasta dinners assembled and ready to bake, this is yet another go-to hidden gem you need to check out.

Flatbread from The Standard

Pulled pork sandwich from Press

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58 COVID COVID CASUALTIES Strikes Mai-Kai Ann Taylor Zinburger Sweets From Heaven

AWARDS FOR COVID CREATIVITY:

WHO DID WHAT WELL IN THE FACE OF CRISIS

c Old School Square initiates pod seating. c Oceans 234 makes a pivot early on after restaurants are ordered closed, becoming a togo market for food, produce and household staples, and the elusive paper goods. c SA made face shields. c Mecca Farms started delivering boxed produce directly to the consumer. c Rodney Mayo launched a charity to feed laid-off hospitality workers and people in need.

ALLEN EYESTONE/THE PALM BEACH POST/ ZUMAPRESS.COM

c Schools got breakfast and lunches to kids who needed them.

THINGS WE DID RIGHT IN 2020 The city set the bar for proactive measures and communication output in terms of COVID response by leading the way independently before other cities and the county when it came to initial closings and mask mandates; Boca was the first to declare a state of emergency, close nonessential businesses, and issue stay-at-home orders.

TOP ISSUES WE ARE STILL DEALING WITH 1. People not wearing masks when asked to 2. No staffing available for restaurants and hospitality business

SA hands out face masks

Rodney Mayo

FEVER DREAMS: POST-COVID RUMINATIONS Things We Will Miss About COVID ✓ Sweatpants for work. ✓ A tank of gas that lasts three weeks.

✓ No events, luncheons,

black-tie dinners or Monday staff meetings.

✓ S ocial distancing. We loved it.

✓ No bar tabs.

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Trends we hope will continue ✓ Grocery delivery. ✓ To-go cocktails. ✓ C urbside delivery. For everything.

✓ C hecking in on old

friends; Zoom reunions

Things we hope never come back ✓ High heels. ✓ The elbow bump. ✓ Neckties. ✓ Virtual concerts. ✓ Close talkers.

3. Sparse inventory in stores 4. Escalating housing costs 5. Escalating paper goods and construction costs

6. Lack of workforce housing 7. I-95 8. Hotels waiting for the return of business travel

✓ Working from home some days.

✓ Outdoor dining.

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59 IN MEMORIAM

IRA GELB

This renowned cardiologist from New York would turn his retirement in Boca Raton into an opportunity to transform the city’s medical bona fides. When he joined FAU’s Continuing Science Faculty in 1993, the university provided only four courses for just 16 students; within a year of Gelb’s leadership, FAU had enrolled 100 pre-medical students, eventually paving the way for the establishment of the Schmidt College of Medicine.

HOWARD SCHNELLENBERGER

Before he was the father of FAU Football, Howard Schnellenberger was the championship-winning coach who helped lead the Miami Dolphins to its undefeated 1972 season and elevated the University of Miami’s football program to a national powerhouse in the 1980s. But he’ll always be remembered in Boca Raton for building the FAU Owls football program from the ground up and coaching the team during its first seven years.

SHAWN FRIEDKIN

Friedkin lost the use of his legs in a car accident at age 27, and proceeded to become one of Boca Raton’s most passionate disability advocates. He formed the nonprofit Stand Among Friends as a fundraising

Charlie Siemon

Jay Van Vechten Ira Gelb

JAMES RANDI

Late of Plantation, James Randi spent more than four decades as a magician and escapologist. During his time as“The Amazing Randi,”he accrued two Guinness records: for encasing himself in a block of ice for 55 minutes and for locking himself in an underwater casket for an hour and 44 minutes. He would remake himself in his post-performance career as a skeptical investigator of the pseudosciences, ultimately launching the influential James Randi Educational Foundation to support his research.

JESSICA MARSHALL/OWLPIX.COM

JAY VAN VECHTEN

A public relations guru, determined advocate for disabled people and beloved member of the Boca Raton community, Jay Van Vechten will be remembered most fondly for founding the city’s Boating and Beach Bash for People with Disabilities, the largest free event for disabled people in the country.

and research organization for individuals with disabilities. His partnership with FAU led to the opening of the Disability Center on the campus of the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Though he lost his seven-year battle with cancer at age 56, his wife and co-founder of SAF, Lisa Friedkin, vows to“carry on Shawn’s legacy.”

Howard Schnellenberger

JOHN E. SHUFF

John Shuff started JES Media and its flagship publication Boca Raton magazine with his wife, Margaret Mary, in 1981, having moved from New York to Boca Raton after a diagnosis of MS. A strong believer in both quality design and content as well as community involvement, Shuff became a community leader and expanded JES Media to include Delray magazine, Mizner’s Dream for the Resort, The Chamber annual and Worth Avenue magazine. In 1989, he launched Salt Lake magazine and later, Utah Style & Design and Utah Bride and Groom.

Shawn Friedkin

JAN MCART

Officially designated the“First Lady of Florida’s Musical Theatre”by two governor’s decrees, McArt is chiefly responsible for establishing live theatre in Boca. Her Royal Palm Dinner Theater became an institution for nearly 25 years, giving performers like Ariana Grande their start. Later in life, McArt linked up with Lynn University to launch a New Play Reading series and boost the private college’s performing-arts pedigree.

John Shuff

AARON BRISTOL

CHARLIE SIEMON

Charlie Siemon was a giant in Boca Raton —and its institutional memory. He helped to plan the city as it grew, from defining developments like Mizner Park, and putting the city on the map as an artistic powerhouse with the Mizner Park Amphitheater and the Festival of the Arts.

James Randi

Jan McArt

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60 THE CITY

Giana Pacinelli

Chrissy Gibson

Daniel Hostettler

Andrea Virgin

Katrina Carter-Tellison

AARON BRISTOL

CHIP RIEGEL

BEST NEW R&R Boca’s newest (completed) park was well worth the wait— even if it’s been 30 years since it was first promised. The waterfront Hillsboro El Rio Park South, just west of 18th Street and Dixie Highway, features tennis, volleyball, pickleball and basketball courts, along with pavilions, a playground, and a canoe/kayak launch into the El Rio canal. A much-needed addition to Boca’s growing list of spaces for outdoor activities, the park has been a hit with kids and adults alike, and continues the beautification—and growth—of Boca’s southeast residential region.

PEOPLE TO WATCH El Rio Park

2021 PATIENCE AWARD To anyone who perseveres through the Glades/I-95 interchange work starting as we speak. Even though we can’t wait for the new I-95 interchange at Glades Road to alleviate some of the area’s notoriously brutal traffic, we’re dreading the construction phase—which is slated to last up to two full years.

c MSD Partners announces that veteran hospitality executive Daniel Hostettler is the next president of the Boca Raton Resort & Club. President and group managing director of Ocean House Management Collection, in charge of four properties in Rhode Island and another in Lenox, Mass., for the past 12 years, Hostettler is also American president of Relais & Châteaux, the luxury hotel chain.“This opportunity will be the capstone of my career,” he said. The community is anxious to meet him, and welcomes a new era at the grand old resort. c Giana Pacinelli, marketing director, Crocker Partners, is bringing the community together through innovative events and outreach at BRIC. c Chrissy Gibson is promoted from Communications Director at the City of Boca Raton to Assistant City Manager. Cool under pressure, dedicated and highly

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intelligent, Gibson, with the city since 2010, brought fresh air to City Hall six years ago (after leaving the Amphitheater)—and we’re glad she’s moving up the ladder. c Andrea Virgin, a Boca Raton native and graduate of Boca Ballet Theatre and the Harid Conservatory who went on to dance professionally with the Houston Ballet, started her own planning and engineering-services company, Virgin Design, in 2018. Now, she’s channeling both of these vocations as president of the Boca Raton Center for the Arts & Innovation, and is the public face behind efforts to build a new arts space in Mizner Park. c Dr. Katrina Carter-Tellison, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Lynn University, was recently named to the YMCA’s board of trustees and is an upand-coming force.

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61 5

THINGS WE ARE WATCHING CLOSELY 1.

The $150 million Boca Raton Resort & Club renovation and rebranding is well underway as MSD Partners goes in swinging with what a rep called a “gut and redo” of the 27-story tower, a four-acre“lakefront oasis” that will feature four pools and a 450-foot “lazy river”connecting two of those pools. The resort’s food and beverage offerings will be revamped and reoriented to blow past the 13 restaurants and bars it now has. Boca will keep an eye on the progress as well as the finished product—it’s not our first rodeo when it comes to hotel changes, but communication has been comparatively sparse this time around.

2. Most live performances have been on

Rendering of the new waterfront at the Resort

hiatus for the past 16 months, but behind the scenes, arts executives are anticipating a brighter future. While plans have not been approved by the city at the time of this writing, the north end of Mizner Park may transform into a diverse cultural hub by 2026. The Boca Raton Arts District Exploratory Commission is behind a $120 million project that would upgrade the Amphitheater and build the Center for the Arts & Innovation, a performing-arts space, from scratch.

3. In October 2020, MSD Partners and Northview Hotel Group, new owners of the Boca Resort, donated the Boca Country Club facilities to the city to develop Boca Raton Golf & Racquet Club. This was big and it’s going to be even bigger as it nears the opening date this fall. Think of the city owning a 167-acre complex with an 18-hole championship golf course (renovated in 2018), tennis and aquatics facilities, clubhouse with event space and restaurant. All open to Boca residents. Only in Boca is this kind of amenity for real.

The Great In-Migration by New York and the Northeast (and beyond) to Boca and South Florida continues, driving up housing prices, wiping out inventory and adding population by the week. What will it mean? Will we be priced out of our own city? Time will tell as we track these rapid changes.

Rendering of the proposed Arts Center at Mizner

5. Continuing its ascent toward world

domination, Amazon, which has Florida fulfillment and sortation centers in Miami, Jacksonville, Davenport, Orlando, Ruskin and Lakeland, announced last summer that it would open its latest center on a 1 million-square-foot site in northern Palm Beach County. This means hundreds of new jobs, but complaints of poor working conditions are tempering some of the enthusiasm.

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THE CITY THE CITY

THINGS WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO Not being Delray for another year (in terms of politics) The opening of the Boca Golf Course this fall An in-person Festival of the Arts The Green Market coming back The return of yoga to Sanborn Square

Thomson with kids on a walk

WALKING THE TALK

Boca councilman Andy Thomson, who has been on the city council since August 2018, has made it his goal to run all 475 miles of Boca Raton this year, cleaning up litter all along the way. The initiative, which he dubbed #RunTheCity, has started strong; as of mid-April, he had run 120 miles and cleaned up nearly 300 pounds of trash in the process. Between jogging stints, Thomson is keeping the city clean in other ways: his proposal to increase the fine for littering PPE like masks and gloves from $50 to $250 passed unanimously in early 2021.

NEW OBSESSION

Pickleball madness has taken the city by storm, thanks to advocates like Raul Travieso, former assistant chief for the Boca fire department and president of the Boca Raton Pickleball Club. Since early 2020, courts have been added to El Rio, Sugar Sand, and Patch Reef with plans for more on the way.

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In what may be his biggest coup since bringing Tutankhamen to Fort Lauderdale in 2005, Irvin Lippman has organized “Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru” to premiere at the Boca Museum of Art in October. The exhibition will encompass both floors of the museum and feature 192 priceless artifacts—objects never seen before by the public—and one of the largest gold collections to ever tour the globe.

VIVIIMAGE

Boca’s Ballroom Battle

AARON BRISTOL

Raul Travieso

BOCA MUSEUM STRIKES GOLD

ONLY IN BOCA

c The George Snow Scholarship Fund earns a record-breaking revenue—$660,000 plus—for the televised Boca Ballroom Battle—in a pandemic. c BRRH raises $200 million of its $250 million goal in the first two years of its capital campaign. c During the pandemic when the mall was all but shut down, you could have heard a pin drop—except for out-the-door lines at the Lululemon and Louis Vuitton stores.

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63 WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING: AARON CALLA KESSLER/THE PALM BEACH POST VIA ZUMA WIRE

NEW TRANSFORMATIONS

1. Selected from an open call by the Boca Raton City Council, local artist Eduardo Mendieta transformed the stage doors at Downtown Boca’s Mizner Park Amphitheater from drab to delightful with a colorful mural dubbed“On Stage.”Pictures don’t quite do it justice—a stop by Mizner Park to see the towering work with your own eyes is well worth it. Not to mention the “Shades of Culture,” an enormous pair of teal sunglasses peering out from the lawn of Sanborn Square. 2. The luxurious Alina is now part of the Boca skyline, its building looming downtown behind Royal Palm Place. One of the city’s most luxurious new offerings, residences feature expansive terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, open-concept floor plans and all manner of luxury appointments.

4. The pandemic forced workouts outside, and Boca gyms like Johnny O’s—South Florida’s largest indoor/outdoor training facility—took off. Olson opened the gym in 2019.

AARON BRISTOL

(BRIC) on the old IBM complex has flourished—and is coming into its own as, well, an innovation campus. Home to TED talks, community events, a high-end food court and a STEAM lab coworking space, it is 90 percent leased. Key tenants include Modernizing Medicine, Canon, Kroger and Boca Raton Regional Hospital. Recent bells and whistles include Marcel Brewer’s coffee shop (a spin on the name of the campus’s iconic architect Marcel Breuer), and a giant keyboard on the grounds—an enlarged model of the first IBM PC Keyboard which was invented at BRIC when it was home to IBM’s Research and Development division. Also new is the large shimmering Rocket installation by artist Hubert Phipps, a partnership between Boca Raton Museum of Art and Crocker Partners.

Artist Eduardo Mendieta

3. The Boca Raton Innovation Campus

The Y’s Jason Hagensick at The Lab

The Rocket at BRIC

5. The Boca Raton Historical Society continues its ambitious expansion, more than doubling its exhibit space and aiming for a fall opening. 6. Boca Ice and Fine Arts was approved by the City of Boca Raton, a facility at Congress and I-95 that will house two NHL-size rinks, a running track and more under one roof.

7. YMCA's The Lab at Town Center opens, providing a youth development center offering everything from civic and business interaction to video making and more.

“Shades of Culture” at Sanborn Square

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y ten b Writ ES

JAM TTI GIO BIA & N JOH SON MA THO

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the front n o s i a d i r Sou t h Flo ate crisis. m i l c l a b o e gl hurricane r e h l i n es o f t h t o n a s deep in e v l e abou t s r w u o o n d k n o fi t As we t you need a h w s ’ e r enges e l l h a , h n c o s e a h e t s t h er a n d a e w g n i g chan result. a s a e c a f we

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AARON BRISTOL

On what makes South Florida’s weather unique: “We’re in a relatively low latitude on the boundary of two climate regions, the tropical and the subtropical. We’re on a peninsula, and we’re surrounded by warm water. Just to our east, the Gulf stream is a warm current of water that flows northward, stays relatively warm year-round, and is driven mainly by two seasons. We have a wet season (May 15 to October 15), and we get about 70 percent of our yearly rainfall during that time frame. And then the dry season, when we get much less rainfall. We don’t necessarily have the traditional four seasons you see in the mid-latitudes, due to our location, our latitude and the fact that we’re surrounded by warm water.”

Robert Molleda,

Warning Coordination Meteorologist, National Weather Service ny true South Floridian will tell you that our home isn’t defined just by its beaches and retirement communities, but also by its unique and often arduous weather. Whether it feels like the hottest summer yet, or temperatures below 70 degrees signal the beginning of our“winter,”most of us have our own benchmarks to determine what’s normal and what isn’t on any given day. But to understand the way the climate is changing in South Florida, we first need to understand what the climate should be like, right? On rising temperatures: “If you look back at the data, it’s pretty universally accepted that temperatures have generally increased. You can go back several decades or even a century, and certainly the temperatures have

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increased during that time frame. It doesn’t matter how we look at it, the data is pretty consistent. … Including this past winter period, we’ve had 10 consecutive winters where the temperatures have been above normal.”

On tropical storms and how they relate to our climate: “Hurricane season is June 1 to November 30… The main driver in overall hurricane activity in the Atlantic Ocean is a cycle called the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation… changes in the sea surface temperatures of the North Atlantic. So there are cool and warm phases of this. If we look over the last hundred years or so, it appears to run in cycles that go from about 25 to 40 years. We’re currently in a warm phase, and that started back in 1995… that translates directly to more tropical activity.” On the need for South Floridians to stay vigilant: “The main thing to remember is that no matter what these conditions are forecast to do, we always have to be ready for the possibility of adverse weather or hazardous weather. We are one of the most vulnerable areas of the country to be hit by hurricanes. That’s what history tells us. Regardless of what the future may hold when it comes to exact numbers, we are still in a hurricane-prone area. So we need to always keep that first and foremost in our minds. You can look long-term, sure, but we also have to keep in mind that our shorter-term threats are still there.”

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67 Steve Weagle,

Meteorologist, WPTV and WFLX

eatherman Steve Weagle acknowledges there is a chasm between meteorology and climatology. Asking a meteorologist to explain all the contours of climate science is, he says,“like going to your general doctor and expecting him to do brain surgery on you.”But he regularly attends conferences on climate change, and can sense its impact on his night job analyzing weather patterns on WPTV (NBC) and WFLX (Fox). On the heels of a record year for named storms, Weagle shares a few of his observations. On the likelihood of a busy 2021 hurricane season: “We still seem to be in this active pattern. Last year was borderline surreal in the number of storms that formed out here. When you start getting into the Greek alphabet for your names, you know it’s an intense storm season. But a lot of the storms that form are also very weak, and they may only last a couple of days. El Niño and La La Niña play a big part. It’s difficult to forecast if there will be an El Niño or La Niña when it really matters, which is August and September and October. If I had to guess, I think it will be a slightly above-normal season.”

we’re getting extreme flooding miles and miles inland, because these hurricanes are slowing down and leaving more rain, then we have to take a serious look at evacuation areas in those flood-prone areas that are inland.” In preparedness in the time of corona: “We’re in a weird situation with COVID and hurricanes. I have a friend who owns a hurricane glass company. I wanted to do a few more windows. He said,‘you’d have to do it today to have it for the start of

hurricane season.’ Because of COVID, the product just isn’t there. Imagine the delay now with generators. I bought a new home generator last April or May, and it wasn’t installed until December. And now we had that ice storm in Texas, and you know everyone in Texas is buying home generators. Even if you go to buy a refrigerator, it can be months before it’s delivered to your house. I’m afraid people will be,‘OK, I’m going to upgrade my windows, or get a generator this season, and decide to do it June 1.’Well, you’re already too late.”

On weather anomalies in South Florida: “We’ll get extreme rain events, [but] in the end it all seems to average out. We had incredible rain last summer and fall in Northern Palm Beach County. In a normal season, we’ll see 60 to 70 inches of rain on average. In seven or eight months in this area, we saw 90 to 100 inches of rain. We’ll get months where there will be nothing after that. And I’ll get emails or comments from viewers,‘it never rains in Boca,’or ‘the storms always miss us.’But … it usually averages out.”

EDUARDO SCHNEIDER

On adapting to monster storms: “Inland flooding from hurricanes is a serious concern. Last season, I think we had on the northern gulf coast six or seven land-falling storms, and the flooding was incredible in spots. Some of those storms were very slow moving, and that was a big issue. That’s an impact we’re watching very closely in the future. Right now, all our evacuation zones are based on storm surge, which is valid. But if

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INTO THE EYE OF THE STORM

While most research of hurricanes and tornadoes takes place by collecting and analyzing data from afar, there’s a side to the field that’s much more electrifying—sometimes literally. That would be storm chasing, the practice of tracking inclement weather with the intention of getting as close to it as possible, whether for thrills, research or both. A storm chaser is defined by the American Meteorological Society as “one who intercepts, by car, van, or truck, severe convective storms for sport or for scientific research.” Storm chasers do just that, tracking and following extreme weather in heavily fortified vehicles that are specially designed to withstand tornado- and hurricane-force winds. The vehicles are equipped with scientific instruments to measure a storm’s “vitals,” including barometric pressure, wind speed and more, all from close range. The idea of storm chasing has become so colloquially popular that an Omaha, Nebraska Minor League Baseball team co-opted it for its name, the Omaha Storm Chasers. The practice even spawned its own annual assemblage: The National Storm Chaser convention, or “ChaserCon,” which began in 1998 in Denver, and held its final iteration in early 2020. Though the popularity of the practice has waned in recent years, there are still plenty of storm trackers who remain active throughout the United States. Today, storm chasers both amateur and professional primarily stream their endeavors online, and can often be seen during live television coverage of tornadoes and hurricanes.

Colin Polsky

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69 Colin Polsky, Ph.D., Director, Florida Atlantic University Center for Environmental Studies n the battle against climate change, knowledge is perhaps the greatest tool that environmentalists wield. Dr. Colin Polsky, director of the Center for Environmental Studies at Florida Atlantic University, with a long background as a climate social scientist, is on the front lines of that struggle. He studies “how people perceive, create and respond to climate challenges such as sea level rise,” and he’s working to educate South Florida on the challenges it faces while helping to bring the region to the forefront of a new “Resiliance” industry—with the sole purpose of fighting the adverse effects of climate change.

AARON BRISTOL

On what South Floridians should know about climate change: “Number one is that climate change and sea level rise are real, today. Number two is that we expect the pace to pick up rapidly in the coming decades. Number three is that this matters in South Florida, because we’re at such a low elevation. In other places, like New York City for instance, you go inland a little bit and you rise in elevation a lot. Here, you go inland, and it’s still flat. All of these things are troublesome. South Florida is arguably the first test worldwide for whether or not a population will successfully adapt to this challenge. There’ll be a number of other places worldwide that will be facing this soon, but we’re the first ones out of the gate.”

warmer, which gives greater fuel to storms. And so whatever number of hurricanes we observe in any given year, they’re likely to be, on average, stronger and wetter because the oceans are warmer and the atmosphere is warmer.”

On local recognition of the issues: “There is an increasing awareness here that something is going on, but the details are a surprise to people. Even the question of whether or not the ocean goes up and down over time by itself, over Earth history, [can be] surprising. Southeast Florida is really the leading edge of the spear, and because of that, the partisan nature of this issue here is melting away … [and there is] a higher level of awareness here than in most places, which makes sense because the water is in the streets.”

On what gives him hope: “There are some bright spots, and that’s why I find this field so interesting and exciting. I moved here because if any place has a fighting chance at succeeding at this experiment, which has never been undertaken before, it’s here. And by here, I mean the four counties, Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach, because they banded together. Because of their intercounty agreement—the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact—there’s been a tremendous synergy of science and engineering and policy work for the last 10 years. A lot of people who live here love it here… Some neighborhoods will look different in 20 years than they do today as a matter of necessity— because they’re just too wet to be livable. But I think there’s enough love for this place, and the economy is strong enough, that we’ll be able to reorganize and still make it work. There’s still a good fighting shot at that. And that’s what keeps me going each day.”

On how climate change is impacting hurricane strength and frequency: “We know that the oceans will be

On the future for South Florida in the battle against climate change: “One interesting silver lining is that

as a result of all of these challenges and pressures, and the energy being invested to meet the challenges, we have the emergence of a new industry. We’re calling it resilience—coastal

"There’ll be a number of other places worldwide that will be facing this soon, but we’re the first ones out of the gate." resilience or climate resilience—and it’s basically a synthesis of engineering and planning and business and architecture. What it requires is a mindset around change, and growth, and equity in the face of increasingly wet conditions. This industry is going to be a high value-added industry, and it’s something that should arguably and rightfully have its home worldwide right here in Southeast Florida. Much like the global financial industry has Wall Street, and tech has Silicon Valley, and automotive is in Detroit, the resilience industry is being born and it should really be focused here, in a place that’s growing its own talent. And then that can be a knowledge-based economy that we can export. Because other cities worldwide are going to be facing the same set of falling dominoes that we are. We’re just up to bat first.”

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In Mizner Park | 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432

BOCAMUSEUM.ORG

Renate Bertlmann, Rosemarie’s Divorce [detail], 2019, Glass, pedestal, scalpels, steel. Courtesy Berengo Studio. Photo: Francesco Allegretto. Glasstress Boca Raton 2021 presented by Fondazione Berengo, Venice, Italy with additional support provided by the Museum’s Leadership Donors.

On view through Sep. 5, 2021

71 POOL, PATIO & SUMMER IN SOUTH FLORIDA The days are longer and the living is easy this season as we bring you the best in outdoor spaces, pool and patio ideas and South Florida showplaces of design—so let the fun in the sun begin!

DANNY PETRONI

FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

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BAC K YA R D OA S I S S U R FAC E I S S U E S F R O M T H E T E R RAC E OUTDOOR KITCHEN F E R N A N D O WO N G SUMMER LIVING TRENDS

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72 74 76 78 80 82

This South Florida home by Canatelli Builders and C.S. Pool Designs (page 72) is an oasis for summertime R&R.

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

POOLS

This Delray home by Canatelli Builders, C.S. Pool Designs and KWD Landscape Architecture was inspired by the homeowners’ travels to places like Bali.

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VING PROOF REAL ESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF DOUGLAS ELLIMAN

Staycation Home

With all the stunning features of a luxury resort, this South Florida residence is a veritable tropical paradise—neither plane tickets nor passports required Written by ROBIN HODES

DANNY PETRONI

here’s nothing quite like a vacation getaway, but for the Delray Beach family that lives in this 21,000-square-foot home, their backyard is unquestionably the next best thing. It’s a house that has all the elements of a luxury resort, and better yet, those who get to enjoy it get it all to themselves! Inspired by the homeowners’ travels, this spectacular outdoor environment offers tranquility and intimate moments, but easily becomes the ultimate venue for a killer pool party when the occasion calls for it. “They brought back photos from their vacations to Vegas and Bali, then asked us to combine various features they loved,”says Edward Canatelli, founder and chairman of Canatelli Builders, a luxury homebuilder based in Pompano Beach.“Our goal was to re-create that vacation feeling for them when they’re in their own backyard.” Cascading water walls, multiple elevations, extravagant lighting features and even a koi pond were among the facets his client wanted to replicate. But just as not many people can build this kind of home, not many contractors can build this kind of pool. Several worthy candidates bid on the enviable project, but it was C.S. Pool Designs, Inc. of Boynton Beach that ultimately landed

the gig.“It took between two and three years, multiple crews, 257,000 gallons of water, and a tractor trailer load of Pebble Tec,” explains C.S owner Charlie Stoetzel,“but they just send me the plans and I make it.” Following the brilliant “map”laid out for him by landscape architect Stephanie Portis, who at the time was the lead on this elaborate project by KWD Landscape Architecture of Delray Beach (she’s since broken out on her own to form Boca Raton’s PLA Design Studio), he engineered and executed two sun shelfs, a gazebo and bar, an upper and lower spa, a conversation pit and a sun deck—all of which surround the expansive black onyx Pebble Tec-lined swimming pool. And when the sun goes down, the light show begins. Using the latest technologies, Stoetzel installed 127 LED color-changing lights that illuminate the space in a multitude of colors and modes, all conveniently controlled via smartphone. As evidenced by this pictorial, a successful collaboration of stellar talents, a visionary homeowner and a generous 9,000 square feet of space to“play” with are the recipe for a resort-like outdoor oasis of one’s dreams. Just add water.

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

MATERIAL WORLD

Number of minerals that go into Dekton

thousand Hours of R&D that went into the creation of Dekton

120

million

in investment to make Dekton

Shown here, Dekton “Industrial” collection featuring its Nilium flooring, Orix counter and Zenith facade

On The Surface

A new addition to granite, soapstone, marble, quartz and solid surface materials like Corian, Dekton offers a new generation of countertops and cladding. Written by ROBIN HODES

f you’re up to speed on luxe manmade materials with new technologies that give you the look of expensive marble and exotic stone without the high price tag and maintenance, no doubt you’ve heard the name Cosentino Group. This global Spanish company produces and distributes high-value innovative surfaces for design and

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architecture. And one of its most in-demand products is Dekton®. Dekton® is a gem of a material due not only to its appearance and adaptability; it also comes in a range of thicknesses and is available in previously unavailable large-format slabs that make design possibilities endless. In fact, it’s a great choice for the oversized kitchen islands that are all the

rage. Dekton® is also scratch-resistant and heat-resistant. In addition to all these benefits, Dekton® is also highly UV resistant, making it ideal for exterior facades and cladding. So, what do you say we take it outside? Dekton® by Cosentino is available at Cosentino USA, 3000 S.W. 42nd St., Fort Lauderdale, 305/398-5700.

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

ROOMS WITH A VIEW

A Breath Of Fresh Air There is a renewed emphasis on balconies and terraces as people open up their homes Written by ROBIN HODES

t’s challenging to find the silver lining behind the dark storm cloud of a global health crisis, but then again, it’s hope, optimism and resilience that see us through. Hopefully, the valuable lessons learned will stay with us forever. One such revelation that came out of the pandemic is a newfound appreciation for nature, and here in South Florida, we’re blessed to have many places we can relish it. As people are putting more and more thought and investment into their homes, they’re paying special attention to their outdoor spaces—a fact that hasn’t gone unnoted by top developers. As a result, terraces and balconies have become more paramount to the sale of luxury units than ever. So, inhale and exhale as you breathe in these new residential properties gracing our landscape.

ROYAL PALM RESIDENCES, BOCA RATON Standing at a coveted location just a short walk from our beautiful beaches as well as the renowned and beloved Boca Raton Resort & Club, Royal Palm Residences offers boutique homes with outdoor terraces that range from 165 to more than 2,000 square feet. Where better to soak in magnificent 270-degree city, water and golf course views?“There’s an influx of Northeast, Midwest and West Coast buyers who are looking to leave dense cities and trade up for the lifestyle benefits only South Florida offers,”says Fernando de Nunez y Lugones, executive vice president with ONE Sotheby’s International Realty.“They are seeking luxury properties with more space to enjoy the outdoors, and boutique properties like Royal Palm Residences are resonating with them because they offer world-class amenities with plenty of space to enjoy the sun and fresh air.”

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lndoor-outdoor living at Royal Palm Residences

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SOLEMAR, POMPANO BEACH Aside from the flow-through layouts with floor-toceiling windows, each desirable unit at Solemar features an oversized terrace with continuous glass railings that gives way to breathtaking views of the city, ocean and Intracoastal. And as if your own private terrace weren’t enough, the property also includes a stunning pool deck with an enormous 13,000-squarefoot terraced green space. “The unprecedented sales pace we experienced over the past few months is a testament to the unique attributes of Solemar, including its wellness-forward lifestyle experience, year-round beach access and unmatched value,”says Nicholas Pérez, vice president at The Related Group. “We’re quite proud of both the indoor and outdoor amenities that are all part of the Solemar experience.”

Above and top, Solemar features oversized terraces

MONAD TERRACE, MIAMI BEACH Pritzker Prize-winning architect Ateliers Jean Nouvel’s only residential project in Florida, Monad Terrace is composed of 59 individually designed waterfront luxury condos overlooking Biscayne Bay. Monad’s expansive private outdoor spaces are the optimal vantage point when it comes to the interplay of water and natural light.“At Monad Terrace, the same amount of thoughtful detail went into creating the outdoor and green spaces on property as the architecture and design of the building,” says Michael Stern, founder/ CEO of JDS Development Group.

The Monad terraces (above and right) offer unobstructed Biscayne Bay and skyline views.

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

AL FRESCO

Now We’re Cooking... With Color The outdoor kitchen goes sleek—and bright—this summer Written by ROBIN HODES

75 B

Percentage of Americans who own a grill

Percentage of Americans who grill monthly

rown Jordan is a name synonymous with luxury outdoor furnishings, but now with the launch of its Elements collection, the brand is rapidly becoming associated with luxury outdoor kitchens, too. Taking a modular approach, this contemporary, freestanding collection with its popular European sleek, low-profile silhouette blurs the lines between cabinetry and furniture, and equips interior designers and their clients with a smart design solution for even the

most perplexing layout. Indeed, we love the versatility aspect, but we also love the dependability. The Brown Jordan moniker instills a certain confidence when it comes to durability; it’s built to last. Our climate—with harsh sun and salty air—presents a challenge, and anyone who’s invested in BJ patio furniture knows that the brand is up for it! If anyone was going to be the first to introduce powder-coated stainless steel to the outdoor kitchen market, it would be them. But this is Boca, and who

among us will deny that looks are important in these parts? “Color is emotion; it brings space to life,”says international architect and designer Daniel Germani, creative director of Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens.“South Florida’s unabashed love of color provided so much inspiration when I created this new palette.” Customers can select from several standard measures and choose from a range of appliance options. To find a local dealer, visit brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com.

Percentage of Americans who say beef is their top choice for the grill

Brown Jordan’s elegant Elements collection

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

POOL & GARDEN DESIGN

Serenity Garden

Star landscape designer Fernando Wong cultivates majestic outdoor spaces for a Palm Beach island home Written by ROBIN HODES

The transparency of this home is an important factor, so we worked very hard to create harmony among the interior and exterior spaces.” —Fernando Wong

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asminium nitidum. Conocarpus erectus. Zoysia matrella. Tongue-twisting binomial terms such as these might sound completely foreign to you … unless you happen to hold a degree in horticulture. Conversely, superstar landscape designer Fernando Wong (right) is well versed when it comes to these trees and plants, and while he’s more likely to refer to them by their common names (star jasmine, silver buttonwood and diamond zoysiagrass), it’s the magic he does with these and other species that has earned him celebrity status. The talent behind some of South Florida’s lushest landscapes, Wong was hired by a private client to create a spectacular exterior environment that rivaled designer Ray Booth’s amazing interiors. “I was very lucky to collaborate with Ray Booth as well as the homeowner on

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this wonderful project, and was consistently made aware of the furniture layout so that it could play into my concept for the landscape,” says Wong. After considering several possible schemes, the team collectively decided on the one seen here. The pool is centered on the main rear entry to this luxurious home situated on Everglades Island—an oceanfront island separated from the mainland by the scenic Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Worth Lagoon.“When you’re sitting on the patio enjoying the beautiful pieces selected by Ray, you’re also enjoying beautiful panoramas,” he explains. Using his keen instincts, Wong created thoughtful processions of multi-tonal greens while always staying mindful of the many doors and windows that open onto glorious vistas. “The transparency of this home is an important factor, so we worked very hard

to create harmony among the interior and exterior spaces,”says the designer. It’s no wonder that this client enlists Wong time and again for her multiple homes … and she’s in good company. Fernando Wong is one of the most highly sought-after landscape designers in the state, if not the country. Wong is currently juggling several high-profile projects that lie between his Palm Beach and Miami offices. He is also working on several properties in the Caribbean, and reeling from the popularity of “Clipped”—the six-episode topiary competition series that debuted on Discovery+ this May, where Wong appears among a trio of judges that also includes Martha Stewart and lifestyle/landscape expert Chris Lambton. He is busy, but ecstatic.“It’s a super exciting time,”says Wong on behalf of himself and Tim Johnson, his partner in life and business.“But it’s what we wanted, so we do it with enthusiasm.”

This Everglades Island home’s pool is centered on the main rear entry—and acts as a link to the outdoors, which is complemented by multi-tonal greens and open to sweeping vistas.

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

TRENDS

Summertime Trends & Toys The season of sun, fun and pool and patio living is here

RIGHT ON CUE

Boynton Billiards’ South Beach Outdoor Pool Table does double-duty when you choose the dining package. The 7” balcony design comes with cushioned benches and a hard top, making the transition from game time to mealtime totally effortless. $13,995, available at the Boynton Beach and West Palm Beach showrooms; boyntonbilliards.com

ETCHED IN STONE

IT’S A WRAP

After a cooling swim, nothing beats cozying up in a luxurious pool towel. With smooth velour on one side, absorbent terry on the reverse, and an assortment of punchy colors, we think Peacock Alley’s Solomon Beach Towels are a wise choice. $75 each; neimanmarcus.com

Put an elegant twist on your outdoor environment with Loft Deccor’s Leones Square Table from Becara Furniture. This is an elaborate, deep green iron base that is balanced by a beautiful, etched white marble top table. $1,399; available at any of Dupuis Becara South Florida locations (Miami Design District, Aventura Mall, Shops at Merrick Park), or storedupuis.com

AIR PLAY

Jet off to the Pacific Coast without ever leaving your backyard with the Limited Edition 50th Anniversary Malibu Barbie™ Private Jet Float by Funboy. Kids will love it, but thanks to its oversized scale, it’s also perfect for adults. $99; funboy.com

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83 RAIN AND SHINE

LET THE SPARKS FLY

Set off fireworks all summer long, not just on the 4th. City Furniture’s durable and stylish Sparks Black Fabric Indoor/ Outdoor Accent Ottoman features a versatile, playful pattern that’s sure to light up a room. $99.95; available at City Furniture, Boca Raton, or cityfurniture.com

There’s no need for a passing storm cloud to rain on your parade. RH’s Rain Sconce by master glass designer Alison Berger features a glass shade that emulates the beauty of a water droplet, and casts luminous ripples across the wall on which it glows. $746 (member), $995 (non-member); available at Restoration Hardware, West Palm Beach, or rh.com

WELL-ADORNED

LIGHTEN UP

Whether chilling in the shade, serving an afternoon refreshment, or giving your décor that added touch, Serena & Lily’s Summer 2021 pale palette of driftwood, antique white, ivory, and the softest shade of sky blue is just the thing to give your outdoor environment a lift. Captiva Outdoor Console, $1,498; Cayucos Pillow Covers with Tassels, $68-88; Beach Umbrella, $498. Available at Serena & Lily, Palm Beach, or serenaandlily.com

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Like the perfect piece of tribal jewelry does for your look, The Cuff Chaise by Ann Vering for Danao Furniture adds a touch of global chic to your patio. Inspired by the wrist bangle of indigenous cultures, the powder-coated aluminum frame boasts a beautiful custom weave that gives these gorgeous loungers an airy, lightweight vibe. Available through Inside Out at DCOTA (Design Center of the Americas), Dania Beach, insideoutfla.com

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The options and advice you need.

The white glove service you deserve.

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All loans subject to underwriting approval. Certain restrictions apply. Call for details. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC. NMLS3029 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Their talents amaze and inspire. They share their resources and expertise to transform our homes and lives with style, color, comfort and functionality. Discover new ways to surround yourself in the beauty of it all through their visions.

The Face of GLAMOROUS INTERIOR DESIGN PERLA LICHI Perla Lichi Design

erla Lichi has made her awardwinning mark in the luxury interior design world since 1984, with her unique signature creations adorning spaces from magnificent turnkey residential and commercial projects to those just needing a glamorizing touch-up for an exciting new feel. As evidenced by her eclectic taste, Perla has lived her life setting trends rather than following them. Gaining inspiration from her wanderlust, love of people, astrology, numerology and her multicultural roots, Perla keeps extremely busy with a roster of clients who know she will work her design magic to beautifully enhance their lives. “My home reflects my soul and my history. My clients have their own unique soul that I reflect theirs in each job I do. People need a breath of fresh air in their homes and offices, especially now that so many have recreated the spaces where they do business. They must love the environment and be inspired in every room. I know where to put the money so it looks extraordinary and expensive,” says Perla.

954.726.0899 Perlalichi.com

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With over four decades in the business, Perla still considers herself a workaholic. With no intention of slowing down, she has found that the secret to her enduring success is doing what she loves while finding the work/ life balance spending quality time with her family and grandkids. “They are my greatest inspiration by far,” she says.

The Face of THOUGHTFUL INTERIOR DESIGN DAWN CAUSA Causa Design Group

igh-end luxury interior designer Dawn Causa has been “designing the art you live in” since 1986. She considers herself an artist and an interior designer—a curator for the home. “I start with a blank canvas and pull inspiration from the homeowner and the surrounding environment. There is so much beauty in Florida from our million-dollar ocean views, lush golf courses and tropical landscapes,” Dawn explains. “Then there’s my design role, where I interpret my clients’ desires and transform their homes, creating a beautiful, modern style that embodies elegance, functionality and harmony. A lot of focus is given to what I call ‘thoughtful design,’ as each client’s lifestyle is different. In some cases, that requires me to consider things like environmental sensitivities, medical equipment, mobility and handicap accessibility. “There’s an intimate side to this profession. By developing close relationships with my clients it makes it easier to help with very personal needs. I’ve worked with a paraplegic client, people with neuropathy, and some so sensitive to their surroundings that special mortars, glues, grouts and paints are used. “What it all comes down to is that I truly care about people,” she reflects. “I’m fortunate to be spreading joy through design. It’s a pretty amazing job having the chance to impact people’s lives in such an artistic and meaningful way.”

954.652.1714 Causadesigngroup.com

The Face of STUNNING DESIGN SOPHISTICATION JEANETTE HUBLEY-LASHER Associate ASID, Principal Hubley Design Interiors

reating interiors in New York and throughout Southeast Florida, Jeanette Hubley-Lasher embraces her craft with a modern sensibility by using traditional elements and classical motifs, infusing them with a modern aesthetic resulting in sophisticated, timeless, unique environments. Her passion for fashion and art are reflected in her diverse range of projects from homes, condos, lofts, casual weekend retreats, and residential building lobbies. She believes each design tells a unique story. “I thrive on developing that story with my clients’ personalities and tastes, with each space presenting the perfect combination of lighting, color, form and authenticity,” she says. “I transfer my passion and vision for detail and beauty into people’s homes with a hands-on approach to every project. I am always sourcing unique furniture, fabulous accessories, works of art from fine to funky, and all things home to create the finished look that makes a stunning statement. As a result of my commitment, my design work has expanded the quality of my life and for that, I am grateful,” says Jeanette. With the many challenges the past year presented for her extensive travel schedule, Jeanette sheltered at her Boca Raton design studio. Exceedingly common projects became transforming outdoor spaces as the quintessential extension of the home, creating a newfound ambience of reflection, recreation and relaxation.

561.961.4696 Hubleydesigninteriors.com

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Jeanette anxiously awaits resuming her worldly exploration personally selecting artisan pieces to enhance her designs, from the souks in Marrakesh, the markets in Istanbul Paris flea markets and shops and villages in southeast Asia to name a few adventures.

The Face of HIGH-END CUSTOM CABINETRY JOSE BARNI Lead Designer CAC Custom Artisan Cabinetry

or more than 35 years, family-owned and operated C.A.C. Custom Artisan Cabinetry has been catering to the cabinetry needs of residential and commercial clients, creating custom-built designs brimming in beauty, form and function. Jose Barni started learning the business when he was just 12 years old, and has evolved into lead designer for the business he shares with his mom Beatriz, sister Maria and brothers Paolo and Enzo. Jose’s guiding principles—and those he attributes to the company’s success as the top rated, 5-star cabinet company in Boca Raton—are high-quality products and customer service. Their team is trained to manufacture and deliver top-of-theline cabinets, uniquely designed for each home or business. Customer satisfaction is their top focus, doing everything in their power to make every client happy, throughout the entire process. “This can be a complex business, from the planning stages to the finished product. Sometimes unforeseen issues arise and you have to be flexible. We want our clients to know that every dollar of their hard-earned money is put to good use. From the simplest foyers to great rooms, theaters, master bedrooms, bars, kitchens and baths, every project is uniquely created to provide as much enjoyment as it does function.” Along with cabinetry for every nook and cranny in the home and business, being commissioned to design “out of the box” projects is all in a day’s work for Jose and his family. Clients know that if it is possible, they can consider it done with C.A.C.

561.361.5111 Customartisancabinetry.com

The Face of LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE MICHAEL FLAUGH Landscape Architect, P.L.

fter majoring in Landscape Architecture at the University of Florida, Mike Flaugh turned his passion into his profession, building his 32-year career literally from the ground up. “The landscape design process is different than you may think. We don’t decorate. Decorating is not sustainable, not necessarily value driven or responsive to the home or the land. Clients make substantial investments to increase the home value and improve the property. It is critical that we take that seriously,” Mike explains. He summarizes the process in three steps, with the first being the obvious (and most enjoyable) one that drives him: the creative end. “We are going to bring something with a sense of aesthetic that is exciting and beautiful, so when you look at the finished design, it will feel very put together and it will make sense,” he says. Next, Mike emphatically states that any form of construction requires a plan, especially your landscape. “We provide very accurate, complete construction documents to assure clarity and avoid misunderstood expectations and conflict so there are no surprises for either side.” Last is the bid procurement process. From a professional line item proposal delivered to the owner with three bids by qualified contractors with impeccable track records, Mike guarantees clients will rave about their choice, the value and their beautiful outdoor spaces. “My amazing team in my small boutique firm does an enormous amount of work creating ambience, impact and an exceptional experience outside the home. We are little fish making a lot of big waves,” says Mike.

772.419.0024 Mikeflaughla.com

The Face of the FINE ART OF KITCHENS AND BATHS BARBARA GELLER, ACSD, PKBD The Place For Kitchens and Baths

“I

t’s not enough to have a kitchen or bath just look good. If they don’t function, they have no purpose in the home,” explains Barbara Geller, president of The Place for Kitchens and Baths. Her undergraduate and graduate education in Fine Arts provided her the aesthetic foundation to visualize the potential beauty in her clients’ spaces. Her decades of expertise as a Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer has enabled her to meticulously decipher every detail of how she is going to use that space. “In these changing times, kitchens have evolved from a gathering place for meals into a home office and often a classroom. When I go to the client’s job site I am focused first on delivering a functional floorplan for the lifestyle they lead now—and will—in the future of the home. Then, the style choices come into play, from modern clean lines to the gold tone hardware and faucets that are making a comeback.

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“The same applies to bath design: function first. I want my client to be able to reach the on and off controls in the shower without having to get wet. With a movement toward freestanding tubs, I often have to design a deck so they can enjoy the ambiance without mobility issues. After all functionality considerations are mastered, the beauty evolves from my arsenal of endless design possibilities,” Barbara explains. “My work is very gratifying. Making my clients happy is what I love to do.”

561.338.7171 Theplaceforkitchensandbaths.com

The Face of INDOOR/OUTDOOR HARMONIOUS DESIGN JASON ALEXANDER J. Alexander Interiors

s people are redirecting and connecting to their homes, comfort is calling from the inside out. Interior designer Jason Alexander utilizes his five-step approach with each client, starting with a consultation; exploring inspiration; working on design development; procuring the selections and the actual design creation, to find the harmony in every space. “We don’t have a “look” that defines South Florida style. Every neighborhood is lined with diverse styles. The common thread that I bring to every project is to make the home more inviting, livable, functional and warm. My high-end clients are not looking for a showplace anymore cluttered with furnishings and accessories. They are looking to achieve a seamless flow of energy that transcends from the interior to the exterior,” he says. That is where Jason’s decades of expertise and unique creativity come into play, creating a backyard feeling where there once was only a slab of cement, using furniture, rugs, plants and water features for the tranquil vibe people now crave, more than ever. “Living walls, and earth and air are nature’s elements that I use to bring a sense of harmony throughout the home,” Jason explains.

954.366.1817 Jai.design

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His ideas inspired other designers and architects to tap into his recent 10-week Q&A design series featured Friday mornings on Podcast Business News Network. From overcoming design obstacles, paint color choices and out-of-the-box and into the outdoors tips, Jason has become an inspiration and trusted source for clients and colleagues alike.

The Face of CONTEMPORARY INTERIOR DESIGN KEN GOLEN Ken Golen Design

ow that people have been spending so much more time at home, Interior Designer Ken Golen is busier than ever. “Clients are turning to me to upgrade their most important investment. A single room make-over easily turns into a total home remodel once they see the results,” says Ken. “I listen to what clients want, explain what I envision, and often end up fixing the mistakes they’ve made thinking they could do it on their own.” Ken prides himself on over-delivering understated contemporary design by utilizing natural stone and wood and subtle earthy tones. Not one for over-the-top glitz and glam, he will adapt to a client’s wishes and tastes while incorporating sophistication into whatever style they choose. “Even with the backlog of inventory overseas due to the pandemic, clients don’t have to worry about waiting months to see a transformation. I source local artists and vendors for the finishes, flooring, tile, countertops and fabric that my clients need. They can come to my Weston office and look at samples or I come to their home with an arsenal of choices. Then we can start small and go crazy,” he laughs.

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For his out of town clientele, Ken offers turnkey design service. “I buy the furniture, set everything up, and they just move in with their toothbrush. Their reactions are priceless, and most claim the results are beyond their wildest expectations,” he says.

954.217.7388 Kengolendesign.com

The Face of EXCLUSIVE ITALIAN TILE AND MARBLE MICHAEL HUMMEL Just Tile & Marble

or the last 33 years, Michael Hummel has immersed himself in the latest styles and trends in tile, marble and glass. His exquisite variety of artistic and unusual offerings has earned him a prestigious standing in the industry. Just Tile & Marble offers an exclusive line of imported porcelain slabs and other beautiful natural stones, as well as unique glass and metallic tiles from around the world. “I pride myself on offering only the best to my clients. Every time we do selections for a home, whether it is a 3,000- or 30,000-squarefoot project, I treat it as if it was my own, and create an environment that my clients would love to live in,” explains Michael. Just Tile & Marble specializes in the use of porcelain slabs for exterior cladding, main flooring and bathrooms. Whether you want to add a stunning kitchen backsplash or a dramatic feature wall, Just Tile & Marble offers countless styles of book-matched slabs that add a luxurious element to any project. Michael strives to bring only exclusive products to the forefront of the marketplace. Eighty-five percent of Just Tile & Marble imports are from Italy’s finest factories, including the premier Sicis Art Mosaic Factory in Revenna. He offers boutique quality service at wholesale prices. With unmatched diligence, Michael collaborates with his clients and their designers to achieve incredible custom spaces. Just Tile & Marble is South Florida’s premier supplier for designers, builders and developers looking for the highest quality materials.

AARON BRISTOL

561.272.4900 Justtilenmarble.com

The Face of LUXURY SILK FLORAL AND ACCESSORIES JOHN ECKHARDT Creative Collection by Petal Pushers

eticulously choosing from a curated selection of occasional furniture, wall décor, mirrors, art glass, sculptures and silk floral creations, designer John Eckhardt has been bejeweling homes with high-end, luxury modern, contemporary and traditional accessories from his design emporium, Creative Collection by Petal Pushers since 2015. John’s love of fauna and flora, the foundation of his award-winning style, blossomed early in his life while attending an agricultural high school and later earning a degree in horticulture. “I worked in fresh flowers for many years and then got into the silk business in South Florida. No watering required with these beauties,” he chuckles. By staying current with the market pulse and incorporating his astute design sense cultivated over the last 30 years, John is able to cater to any clients’ environment and tastes. “I try to work with what the clients have and love, and provide museum quality display placement and mixtures of elements,” he explains. ”I’m not into trendy. People tend to get caught up in that but it has a shelf life. My décor is intended to be timeless, no matter what season it is acquired.”

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From choosing an individual statement piece, to a room full of artistic touches from his 5,000 square foot Boca Raton showroom, John and his team of designers strike the perfect balance between sophisticated elegance and dramatic flair to create unique spaces that truly capture the essence of each client.

561.994.0505 Petalpushersplus.com

The Face of ART AND FRAMING MURIEL LIGHT EGAN Frame World Gallery

fter more than 40 years in the art business, Muriel Egan prides herself in being the real deal. For clients who frequent her Frame World Gallery in Regency Court at Woodfield, that means expecting and getting authenticity and honesty with every transaction, regardless of the price tag. “I tell my clients who are only interested in paintings, that prints and posters are not the runt of the art litter. If they are less costly, it does not make them less enjoyable and they can have superior investment value as well,” she says. While Muriel’s expertise in antique posters has attracted collectors worldwide for decades, her gallery also offers a myriad of services including custom framing, interior design, and hanging. She features a diverse selection of art including lithographs, prints, paintings, sculpture, one of a kind artisan crafts and gifts, many gleaned from private collections and museums. Muriel enjoys meeting and helping people complete their projects large and small. From original Andy Warhol drawings to ToulouseLautrec posters, every piece is treated with integrity and respect, with the utmost care taken to preserve its value and enjoyment. Muriel also keeps a large library of art books for sale and for research.

561.997.0084 Artandframingbocaraton.com

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“My little 1,000 square foot gallery is not fancy but is full of surprises. Imagination is an unlimited resource, and I know how to wield it. And remember, good art won’t match your sofa,” she says.

The Face of SPECIALIZED INTERIOR DESIGN CARL VASILE and JOY PAHLAVAN Principal Owners Palm Beach Design Masters

he artistic DM logo gracing the luxurious storefront at 326 Peruvian Avenue engages passersby and, as you’d expect, attests to the creativity going on inside at Palm Beach Design Masters. This contemporary design studio is where Carl Vasile and Joy Pahlavan work for their high-end residential, commercial and luxury real estate clients. With more than 30 years of combined design industry experience in Palm Beach, New York and Atlanta, their approach is to make every design project reflect the individual tastes, personality and vision of their clients, always with a clear understanding and respect for their expectations and timelines. From sprawling idyllic Palm Beach mansions to quaint cottages and corporate headquarters, their projects are diverse and in demand. An astute attention to detail and unique masterful design collaborations have earned them great standing in Palm Beach, renowned the world over for prestige and perfection. Carl and Joy combine a hands-on workshop and a retail home furnishings store at their coveted address. Clients fall in love with the eclectic collections of accessories they can take home with them that day, while plans are set in motion for custom made furniture, window treatments and floral arrangements the design team will create on site with their signature style to accentuate any space. Any trip to historic Palm Beach is a memorable one. One stop at Palm Beach Design Masters and Carl and Joy can make those memories live on for a lifetime of beauty and enjoyment.

561.318.8142 Palmbeachdesignmasters.com

The Face of LEGACY FINE ART PORTRAITURE LUANN WARNER-PROKOS Warner-Prokos Photography

uAnn Warner Prokos is an award-winning master photographer who has been serving South Florida with her premier photography artistry for over 10 years. From individual and family portraiture, including maternity and newborn sessions, to headshots and branding, her passion and awe-inspiring work and product spans far beyond the digital file. Portrait sessions are personally stylized for each client, designed to capture their unique personality, style, or emotion. Her retouching artistry assures a flawless, natural looking result. LuAnn’s luxe studio is known for the experience she offers, her attention to detail, and exquisite heirloom quality legacy products from folio boxes and albums, to contemporary wall art and unique fine art wall prints that showcase artistically edited images, using top product creators sourced throughout the US, as well as Italy and other countries. “I tell my clients, ‘You may have a library of digital images and selfies of yourself and family, but you may not have a single quality photo taken. The time is now to capture those moments and milestones in print that will be cherished today and for a lifetime as a priceless work of art. Portraiture that captures your place in time and is an investment that holds immeasurable value and enjoyment from generation to generation.’” LuAnn will be relocating her studio to Boca Raton in early September. Her camera lens is poised to welcome you for a truly artistic and lasting experience.

561.264.2442 WarnerProkosPhotography.com

The Face of CONTEMPORARY ITALIAN FURNISHINGS HOSSEIN AZIMI President Antonini Modern Living

ntonini Modern Living is home to thousands of designer furnishings, each exuding fresh, sleek modern lines with exquisite European styling. Most of the products that fill the upscale showroom are made in Italy, though Hossein Azimi sources select suppliers from the US, Canada and around the world. Renowned local designers Louis A. Lara and Stanley Jay Friedman are among the sought after top American brands available in Antonini’s coveted collections. “We are proudly exclusive with our products. They are mostly our own designs and very competitively priced. When it comes to value, we are the most aggressive in this marketplace,” he says. “I have seen all of the furniture trends in my 30 years in the business. The designs that we sell resonate with the geography and the vibe where people live. New York, Florida, California and the Midwest have distinctive looks, so people buy accordingly. It used to be that modern furniture was mostly popular among the younger generation. Now we see people across the board tiring of the bulky, heavy furnishings and turning their tastes to a fresh new contemporary look. From end tables to accent chairs, bedroom, dining, and outdoor living, each piece at Antonini is designed with function and modern artistry to complement the home. “With real estate on fire and so many people moving here to enjoy the beauty of Florida, our furniture is in higher demand than ever. Our on-staff designers provide complementary consultations and make house calls to assist with the planning, from a single statement piece to a house full of modern luxury,” says Hossein.

561.757.6988 Antoninimodernliving.com

The Face of ESTHETIC AND FUNCTIONAL CLOSET DESIGN LORI HOYT California Closets

ne of the main features people care about in a home is ample closet space and storage. And even when it is limited, with expert organizational tools and spacial design provided by Lori Hoyt and her family team at the California Closets’ franchise serving Broward and Palm Beach, there’s a place for everything! “As you grow with your home, and the world changes as it recently has, we are reinventing our spaces to suit or new reality. We rely on our customers understanding our expertise to create organization that matches their unique settings and lifestyles,” explains Lori. “There are certainly better prices out there, but there’s no real competition. I am proud to say that California Closets is the prototype people try to duplicate. What we do sets us apart with proprietary products only available to California Closets. Our designers have a design background, go through rigorous systematic training and must know organization down to a science, which will benefit the client for years to come. Spacial design knowledge is key and by us utilizing the latest 3-D technology, clients can see every detail before the project begins.”

954.946.2218 Lhoyt@calclosets.com

AARON BRISTOL

Lori says that people now want a furniture look. “Since you visit your closet more than any place in your home, why not have beautiful functional furniture surround you instead of your closet looking like a jumbled Tupperware drawer with things scattered all over the place?” she asks.

The Face of INTERIOR DESIGN AND HOME REMODELING NANCE ARCÉ, AKBD, CAPS Naturally Creative, Inc.

ance Arcé is grateful that since graduating from FSU with a bachelor’s degree in interior design, her 46-year career has been dedicated solely to her craft. She considers it a privilege to be able to do what she loves for a living while sharing her “Naturally Creative” gift with others. Nance Arcé has grown Naturally Creative throughout the years to include an 1,800-square-foot Kitchen and Bath showroom, which she opened in 2004. Her showroom includes cabinetry, countertops, flooring, plumbing fixtures, tile for bathrooms and backsplashes, custom window treatments, wallpaper, fabrics and furnishings—everything you need for your remodeling project.

EMILIANO BROOKS

Specializing in home renovations, Nance is certified as an Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer (AKBD) and Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). With these distinctions and her own personal multi-generational home environment as inspiration, she evolved into universal design, providing her clients’ homes with comfortable, simple ideas and functional concepts for all stages of their lives so they can age in place safely and conveniently, without the need to seek nursing homes or facilities when/if health or mobility becomes an issue. No matter the project size or scope, from building a new home to total renovating and decorating, Nance’s right-hand business manager and daughter, Jessica, is with her at the helm to assist with all of the ordering, scheduling and budgeting. “Our focus is creating unique customized designs that are stylish and functional, while reflecting our clients’ personal style,” says Nance.

954.772.7979 Naturallycreativeinc.com

SHOWROOM & MANUFACTURING 2880 NW Boca Raton Blvd., Suite 1 Boca Raton, Florida 33431 561.750.3177 canamcabinet.com

Presented by The Worth Group

More than 37 years of experience we’re fortunate for Synonymous with visionary leadership and excellence, the Fortune International brand is the global ambassador to South Florida real estate. Founded in 1983 by the Defortuna family, our professional philosophy is simple and time-honored: we are committed to building trusted business relationships, providing integrity-driven service and empowering our clients with unmatched local market expertise. For over 37 years Fortune has nurtured the growth of communities, shaped cityscapes and designed skylines. We’re proud to have the privilege of contributing to South Florida’s transformation in becoming a powerful gateway city.

Fortune International Realty. 370 W. Camino Gardens Blvd. Suite 304. Boca Raton, FL 33432

The Worth Group & its Co-Founders

Marie Mangouta 561 639 2149 | marie@TheWorthGRP.com

What surprises people most about you? I was born in Moscow, Russia and raised in Brazzaville, Congo where I sent most of my childhood. My mother is Russian and father Congolese, therefore I speak fluent French and Russian. What is your favorite childhood memory? Spending every summer in Russia visiting from Congo where we spent a good three months with my grandmother, aunts, cousins, and friends. My grandmother would take us to the Datcha, which is a Russian garden with a cottage house, and we would pick strawberries, berries, tomatoes, and cucumbers! If you could live anywhere, where would that place be? I once travelled to Cape Town, South Africa and thought it to be magical. It is where the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean and warm waters of the Indian Ocean meet. My home there would overlook the coral blue Ocean and beautiful popular Cape Town wine vineyards. Where would we find you around town? I love Boca Raton, it is such a special town with a luxurious understated lifestyle! I have many favorite spots, and I don’t say no to good food! Find me often for casual happy hour at Yakitori Sake House, a quick coffee at The Seed, and lamb cravings at Trattoria Romana!

Adam Elmer 215 584 1287 | adam@TheWorthGRP.com

What surprises people most about you? Probably the fact that I have never touched a fish in my life (intentionally) yet I have a 200 gallon saltwater aquarium in my home. What is your favorite childhood memory? When my sister (Ashley) and I were younger, our parents kept a boat in the Chesapeake Bay and every Friday after school, our family would make the 3-hour drive down to Maryland for the weekend. The memories that we created together on that boat, just by being in each other’s presence, are memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. If you could live anywhere, where would that place be? I asked myself that exact question when I was 21 years old and had a crippling fear of having to deal with the cold Philadelphian winter weather for the rest of my life. Knowing that I needed to take a leap of faith, I began packing my bags and drove straight to the Boca/Delray area. In my eyes, we have a Tropical Paradise right in our backyard and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! Where would we find you around town? If I am in Delray, you can find me somewhere on Atlantic Avenue or in Pineapple Grove and when in Boca, I am usually somewhere around Mizner Park. Regardless, I will most likely be indulging in food!

www.theworthgrp.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

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JANA N. JEANSONNE MBA, CIPS

DESIGNATED BROKER / OWNER e-PRO, GRI PAST NAR PRESIDENT’S LIAISON REALTOR® BOARD PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

561.212.6022 Info@RegencyFlorida.com

“PROTECT YOUR BIGGEST INVESTMENT WITH QUALITY LEGAL AND TITLE REPRESENTATION THROUGHOUT YOUR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS”

EDGAR A. BENES, P.A. 561.866.6075 EBenes@BenesLaw.com

Let us guide you home.

3010 NE 7th Drive Boca Raton $4,395,000 5 BD 5.5 BA 5,470 SF Featured Listing

333 NE Spanish Trail Boca Raton $6,400,000 5 BD 7 BA 7,727SF Recent Notable Sale SOLD

The Pam and Toni Team is one of steadfast commitment and solid reputation in the South Florida Real Estate sector, specializing in Boca Raton and Delray Beach market expertise. Their reliability and high-achieving performance characterize their ability to go above and beyond for their clientele. Whether it’s searching for your next home, or finding a qualified buyer for your property, The Pam and Toni Team works one-on-one with buyers and sellers on a personalized level to guide them through the real estate process, while providing a foundation for a secure, trustworthy partnership. Oftentimes, the team is chosen to represent a seller’s listing and also finds the best buyer to provide a seamless transaction.

18743 Long Lake Drive Boca Raton $2,600,000 6 BD 6.5 BA 6,869 SF

Recent Notable Sale SOLD

$70M+

3092 Banyan Road Boca Raton

Total sales in 2020

Combined years of experience

$1,540,000 3 BD 3.5 BA 2,603 SF

Pam Thomes, Toni Valentino & Teri Jacobsen The Pam and Toni Team • pamandtoni@compass.com • 561.716.7526

Agent Team Name is a team of Real Estate agents affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed Real Estate broker with a principal office in Chicago, IL and abides by all applicable Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only, is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, and changes without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of Real Estate brokerage.

Recent Notable Sale SOLD

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private education camp guide 2021 The following section presents helpful information provided by prominent private schools and camps in Palm Beach County. All listings include a brief synopsis of the programs’ achievements, curriculum highlights, and many more important details families look for when choosing the best fit for their children. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you make informed decisions at a glance.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CONGRATULATIONS THENBP NBP CLASS OF 2021! CLASS OF 2021! We are so proud of you and all of your We are so proud of you and all of your accomplishments.

accomplishments.

228 ACCEPTANCES

260 seniors 260

seniors

1,010 college acceptances

$11,000,000

60,000 community service hours

VISIT WWW.NPBS.ORG/VISIT OR CALL 954-247-0179 VISIT WWW.NPBS.ORG/VISIT OR CALL 954-247-0179

stjoan.org EST.1959

EST.1960

BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE STREAM CERTIFIED SCHOOL Pre-Kindergarten 3 – 8th Grade Christ-centered community of faith • Progressive technology skills • 1:1 Digital learning environment • 30+ clubs including academics, sports and fine arts • Brand new Arts Conservatory and STREAM Laboratory • All-weather Gazebo with USDA standards Cafeteria • Extended care available daily in a safe and secure campus • Fully accredited with state-certified faculty • Pre-Kindergarten 4 tuition discount available •

•

For inFormation, please call 561.392.7974 • inFo_school@stjoan.org 501 sW 3rd avenue, Boca raton, Fl 33432

2021

Private Education & Summer Camp Guide

GREENE EDUCATION Are you:

• Concerned about your student finding the right colleges that fit both academically & financially? • Worried that you have not saved enough to afford a 4-year college education costing $100k - $300k? • Afraid your college costs will destroy your dream of retirement?

RIGHT SCHOOL | RIGHT REASONS | RIGHT PRICE Our expertise:

• Lowering your out-of-pockets costs and developing a plan to pay • Guiding your student in career selection, extracurriculars, self-promotion, school selection, admissions packet • Completing Financial Aid Process accurately to achieve the best outcome

GREENE EDUCATION 621 NW 53rd Street, Suite 240 Boca Raton, FL 33487 Proud Member of the Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce

Schedule your no-obligation consultation

(561) 995-1418

Email: info@greene-ed.org

ADVENT SCHOOL

FRENCH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

- Grades: Infants - 8th - Tuition Range: $5,000 - $15,000 - Students: 400 - Student-Teacher Ratio: Varies by class - Virtual Classes: If necessary - Denomination: Christian

- Grades: K - 8th - Tuition Range: $9,500 - $11,000 - Students: 100 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 16 - Virtual Classes: Optional - Denomination: Non-sectarian, Co-educational

At Advent, your child will become a CONFIDENT, CAPABLE, CHRISTIAN LEADER making a difference in the world! Advent combines rigorous academics with character development in a safe in-person learning environment. Innovative programs include Dual Language and Emergent Reader groups in the Early Childhood School, Transitional Kindergarten, Elementary & Middle School STEM enrichment, 1:1 Technology, Spanish and more. Advent also provides opportunities in spiritual growth, fine arts, and athletics. Aftercare/camp programs offer engaging activities. The Early Childhood School offers VPK and Summer VPK. Infants to 8th Grade – you can grow with us!

The French American International School (FAIS) offers a bilingual dual curriculum, satisfying American and French academic standards. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate school, FAIS offers the PYP to all primary school students. Students not only become proficient in a second or third language but have access to an array of enrichments courses. Program available in-person and on-line. Call us for a visit: (561) 479.8266. Merci!

300 E. Yamato Road • Boca Raton • 561.395.3631 • AdventSchoolBoca.org

2500 NW 5th Avenue • Boca Raton • 561.479.8266 • Faisbr.org

GRANDVIEW PREPARATORY SCHOOL - Grades: PreK3 - 12th - Students: 275 - Virtual Classes: Yes

- Tuition Range: $12,500-$21,850 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 8:1 - Denomination: Independent

Founded in 1997, Boca Raton’s Grandview Preparatory School (GPS) is a small, diverse community committed to the philosophy that education is a personal endeavor. Grandview pairs timeless ethics with modern thought and personal attention with global consciousness while preparing students for college and life beyond. GPS is an independent, non-sectarian, college preparatory, co-educational day school enrolling students from pre-kindergarten through grade twelve.

336 Spanish River Blvd. NW • Boca Raton • 561.416.9737 • Grandviewprep.net

GREENE EDUCATION Making College Affordable RIGHT SCHOOL • RIGHT REASONS • RIGHT PRICE Our analysis and planning program helps you lower your out-of-pocket costs, helps you pay your remaining costs of college, while preserving and protecting your retirement funds! Our personalized student program helps your student present him or herself in the very best light to their dream fit college(s). Our financial aid program helps you navigate the complex financial aid system by accurately completing the forms and providing you strategies to maximize both need based and merit based financial aid.

621 NW 53rd Street, Suite 240 • Boca Raton • 561.995.1418 info@greene-ed.org • Greene-educationfoundation.org

2021

Private Education & Summer Camp Guide

“Prepare your child for a global future”

k-8 full immersion bilingual program providing the best of american and european education. IB Candidate School offering PYP (Primary Years Programme)

(561) 479-8266 2500 NW 5th Ave. Boca Raton, FL 33431 w

NORTH BROWARD PREPARATORY SCHOOL

PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY

- Grades: PreK3 – 12th - Students: 1,550

- Grades: K-12, University - Tuition Range: Varies - Student-Teacher Ratio: 1:1, 1:8 - Students: 85-150 - Virtual Classes: Yes - Denomination: Non-denominational

- Tuition Range: $24,200 - $34,340 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1 - Denomination: Non-Denominational

North Broward Preparatory School is an extraordinary community of learners and has been educating, empowering and inspiring day and boarding students since 1957. We think beyond traditional education to transform learning and provide unique learning experiences both inside and outside of the classroom through collaborations with MIT, The Juilliard School and UNICEF. Our students are immersed in a multi-cultural community and have the confidence to influence beyond borders. Through our performing arts program students are prepared for the world stage; equipped to solve world problems through our STEAM curriculum; and learn the importance of service.

Since 1989, Palm Beach International Academy (PBIA) has been developing self-paced, individualized, college preparatory programs for K-12 students whose lifestyles, activities, and passions require flexible and varied schedules, interesting and exciting coursework, and classes focused on their specific learning styles. PBIA offers yearround 1:1 and small group classes using live, on-line and in-person instructors. University@PBIA offers practical certificate programs and rigorous college courses throughout the year. Professors and students work 1:1 engaging in relevant discussions and classes. Summer 2021 includes innovative summer camp, entertaining middle school courses, and high school credit recovery and transcript boosting.

7600 Lyons Road • Coconut Creek • 954.247.0179 • NBPS.org

Wellington • Boca Raton • 561.338.3811 • Pbiafl.com

PINE CREST SCHOOL BOCA RATON

PINE CREST SCHOOL FORT LAUDERDALE

- Grades: PreK - 8th - Students: 2,661 - Virtual Classes: Yes

- Grades: PreK - 12th - Students: 2,661 - Virtual Classes: Yes

- Tuition Range: $24,915 - $33,620 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 9:1 - Denomination: Independent

- Tuition Range: $24,915 to $36,550 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 9:1 - Denomination: Independent

True to tradition and inspired by innovation, Pine Crest School offers a researchbased, challenging curriculum complemented by arts and athletics. We believe that building social and emotional competencies in a safe, secure, and inclusive learning environment is fundamental to our students’ success. Pine Crest classrooms foster creativity and innovation, giving students opportunities to practice ethical thought leadership and to become curious, adaptable learners. Our goal is to send our graduates out into the world as leaders who know their strengths and who have the courage to challenge norms, break barriers, and move forward with confidence. #PCFutureReady

2700 St. Andrews Boulevard • Boca Raton • 561.852.2800 • pinecrest.edu

1501 NE 62nd Street • Fort Lauderdale • 954.492.4100 • pinecrest.edu

2021

Private Education & Summer Camp Guide

• CATHOLIC BASED EDUCATION • FULLY INTEGRATED IPAD PROGRAM • COLLEGE PREP CURRICULUM • JV & VARSI T Y TEAMS

9th - 12th grades | 430 Students | $13,750 Tuition Range 14:1 Student Teacher Ratio | 99% College Acceptance 116 Different Courses in 9 Disciplines | 58 Honors, AP and Dual Enrollment Courses | 21,450 Community Service Hours this year $11.2 Million in Scholarships for the Class of 2020 | 40 Years of tradition and more than 6,500 alumni | 50 Acceptances to schools in the Top 100 Universities Ranking, US News & World Report www.sjpii.net | 561.314.2100 4001 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton, FL 33431

SAINT JOHN PAUL II ACADEMY

SPACE OF MIND, A MODERN SCHOOLHOUSE

- Grades: 9th - 12th - Students: 430

- Grades: K-12 and Gap Year plus Summer Camp Scholarship accepted and - Tuition Range: $30,500 - $33,700 (Gardiner limited financial assistance available) - Summer Camp: $80 - $400 - Denomination: Non-Denominational - Student-Teacher Ratio: 1:4 - Students: 80

- Tuition Range: $13,100 - $13,850 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1 - Denomination: Catholic Based

Saint John Paul II Academy, located in Boca Raton, Florida, is a Catholic coeducational college preparatory school in the Diocese of Palm Beach following the tradition of Saint John Baptist De La Salle and the Brothers of the Christian Schools. Saint John Paul II Academy provides a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for success in college and in life. Our faith-based learning community fosters excellence in all programs and enables the spiritual, academic, artistic, and physical development of each student. Dedicated faculty and staff instill the Gospel values of tolerance, concern for the poor, justice, peace, and responsibility while welcoming students of all beliefs and backgrounds.

Space of Mind (SOM) is a boutique educational experience, designed for our modern, social world and where students learn how they learn best. Built upon the benefits of homeschooling, the SOM approach replaces the traditional parent role with a full or part-time progressive and nurturing coaching approach, gifted-style project-based curriculum and live-taught sessions online or on our 10,000 sq ft. innovative campus in downtown Delray Beach. Programming is also available for pods, private students and parent-led homeschoolers. We provide a creative, flexible and personalized educational environment that fosters social, emotional and academic growth for all kinds of learners, including children, parents, adults, families and educators.

4001 N. Military Trail. • Boca Raton • 561.314.2100 • sjpii.net

102 N. Swinton Ave • Delray Beach • 561.894.8772 • Myspaceofmind.com

SPANISH RIVER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

ST. JOAN OF ARC CATHOLIC SCHOOL

- Grades: PreK3 – 8th - Students: 520 - Virtual Classes: Yes

- Grades: PreK - 8th - Students: 465 - Virtual Classes: Yes

- Tuition Range: $3,919 - $10,462 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1 - Denomination: Presbyterian

- Tuition Range: $8,880 - $12,150 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 1:20 - Denomination: Catholic

Preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds (Gold Seal Quality Care Program). Academic program K-8th with high quality, challenging academics enhanced by robust technology innovation in the classrooms; leadership skill building; strong fine arts and performing arts programs; critical thinking and project based learning. High school-level honors Algebra 1, Geometry, and Spanish I for middle school students. Accredited by CSF and MSA. Before and after-school programs. Interscholastic Sports program. After school enrichment for elementary. State-of-the-art technology, including 3-D printing, video productions, coding. Competitive robotics. Stanford Achievement Test. Lunch program. Clinic with fulltime nurse. Uniforms required. Parent-Teacher Fellowship. Summer Camp.

St. Joan of Arc Catholic School is a Blue Ribbon School of Academic Excellence and a Florida Catholic Conference STREAM certified school. St. Joan’s offers a challenging curriculum such as: Accelerated Math and Spanish for Heritage Speakers (3rd through 8th grade) including Geometry 1 Honors and Algebra 1 Honors. Our students benefit from our 1:1 iPads, a beautiful campus which has a Sports Arena, new Fine Arts Conservatory, and STREAM Lab, as well as numerous clubs and a competitive sports program in a faith-filled nurturing environment. For more information contact us at info_school@stjoan.org.

2400 Yamato Rd • Boca Raton • 561.994.5006 • Spanishriverchristianschool.com

501 SW 3rd Avenue • Boca Raton • 561.392.7974 • Stjoan.org/school

2021

Private Education & Summer Camp Guide

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL - Grades: PS3-8th - Students: 350

- Tuition Range: $4,542 -$11,860 - Student-Teacher Ratio: 17:1 - Denomination: Lutheran

SUMMIT-QUESTA MONTESSORI - Grades: Toddler - 8th - Students: 400

- Tuition Range: $10,950 - $14,800 - Student-Teacher Ratio: Varies - Denomination: Non-denominational

Since 1962, St. Paul has been an accredited traditional Christian school in east Boca Raton. St. Paul offers leveled reading and math groups, art, music, band, advanced technology, physical education, Spanish as well as STEM in grades 6-8. Our extracurricular sports programs often excel to state and national levels. Our Early Childhood Program is nurturing and provides flexibility with days and times. After school care and summer camp are available. Our Parent Teacher League offers many opportunities for parents to be involved. Contact us for a tour or more information. St. Paul is a family fostering a foundation for the future!

Hands on Montessori learning environment, art, music, Spanish, PE, after school sports teams and specialty classes including basketball, volleyball, soccer, track, cross country, swimming, robotics, art, educational labs and more. Certified Montessori teachers. Beautiful 10-acre campus. Tutoring available. Gold Seal of Excellence Award. Montessori Teacher Training site. Pool and indoor gymnasium. Summer Camp available!

701 W. Palmetto Road Park Road • Boca Raton • 561.395.8548 • Cyberfalcon.com

5451 SW 64th Ave • Davie • 954.584.3466 • Summitquesta.com

TRINITY DELRAY LUTHERAN SCHOOL - Grades: Age 1 – 8th - Students: 350

- Tuition Range: $4,400 - $10,500 - Student-Teacher Ratio: Varies - Denomination: Lutheran

Trinity Delray, Excellence in Christian education since 1948. For over seventy years, Trinity Delray Lutheran School has been providing academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment. Trinity Delray is committed to providing the best instructional environment for students. Trinity Delray is a Cambridge International School. Cambridge International helps students become confident, responsible, reflective, innovative, engaged, and ready to tackle the demands of tomorrow’s world, capable of shaping a better world for the future. We offer class sizes that give students the opportunity to have curriculum differentiated to their needs. Trinity Delray students develop critical thinking skills that are needed to be successful after elementary and middle school.

400 N Swinton Ave • Delray Beach • 561.276.8458 • Trinitydelray.org

TWISTER GYMNASTICS BOCA RATON - Ages: 3 - 10 - Pricing: From $265/Weekly and $69/Daily st th - Dates: June 21 - Aug 6 - Denomination: Gymnastics Whether your child spends a session, a day, a week or the whole summer at Twisters, their time here will be filled with loads of fun! Our professional and safety certified staff will lead your children in gymnastics instruction, games, organized activities, fitness, arts & crafts, and supervised play in our fun, clean, safe, and fully air conditioned facility! Preschool and grade school kids will be grouped separately and safety protocols will be followed. 3100 NW Boca Raton Blvd #308 • Boca Raton • 561.750.6001 • Twistergymnastics.com 6805 Lyons Technology Circle • Coconut Creek • 954.725.9199

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Tracy Fields

The region’s preeminent jazz DJ continues to expand her audience’s ears Written by JOHN THOMASON

f you’re listening to jazz radio in South Florida, chances are high that Tracy Fields is spinning it. Since 1995 on various timeslots, Fields has been jockeying jazz for WLRN, one of the tri-county area’s most resonant NPR affiliates, from its studio caddy-corner to the Adrienne Arsht Center. On “Evenin’ Jazz,” now running from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. weeknights, Fields plays the genre’s immortals—Miles, Bird, Ella—but ascribes even more airtime to the newer voices of jazz, curating an ongoing dialogue be-

I’m not into labels, [as to] where one mode of jazz expression ends and another begins. But … I think it’s my duty to play as many different kinds of music as I can over the course of a week, just so people can be exposed to more, and grow bigger ears. —Tracy Fields

WEB EXTRA: Visit BOCAMAG. COM/JULYAUGUST-2021 for Fields’ recommendations on the best places to hear live jazz in South Florida.

bocamag.com

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tween the past, present and future of a great American musical idiom. The station allows her “something close to complete freedom.” During the middle hour of her show, Fields plays an entire album straight through, a showcase for emerging artists that is unheard of in the traditional radio market. Fields dates her passion for jazz to her father’s collection of 78s.“In his music collection was a version of ‘Every Day I Have the Blues’ by the Count Basie Orchestra with Joe Williams,” she recalls.“And I dug that song. I was fascinated as a kid by how fast the record spun around, and I also appreciated how happy it made my father just to hear it.” She says she grew up “with a radio plastered to the side of my head,” and launched her budding radio career when she volunteered for the campus radio station at her alma mater, Virginia’s Hampton University. She moved to South Florida to work as an Associated Press reporter after college, and chose a fortuitous moment to assist on a WLRN pledge drive.“It turned out that Joe Cooper, who was program director there at the time, had been looking to add a woman to the staff to play jazz, and I was lucky enough to be that one.”

It’s my understanding that most music radio these days is programmed by computer. How unique is your show in this or any market? There are fewer of us than there used to be, but we’re still out there. You tend to find jazz hosts, either on SiriusXM or the low end of the dial where I am. It’s like [former “Evenin’ Jazz” host] Len Pace used to say to me about jazz in Miami … that there was something happening jazz-wise in South Florida every night of the week if you would just look. So yeah, jazz radio’s out there. All you have to do is look and listen. What does it take to put together a great playlist for the radio? The songs have to fit together, and what fits together for me may not be what fits together for some other people. But apparently my friends in radioland and I have come to an understanding. There’s something nocturnal about listening to jazz, whether it’s at home before bed with the lights off or driving down some lightly trafficked highway. What is about night listening that works so well with this music?

Perhaps it is that most jazz gives you space, and by the time the end of the day rolls around, you need a little space to process what has happened. There’s a different vibe at night, and the music generally gives you a little space to be. It doesn’t demand so much from you, usually. When I look at your playlists [Subscribe to her playlists for free at therealtracyfields.substack. com.—Ed.], I find names I’ve never seen before. How do you discover so many new exciting names in jazz? People send me music; it’s a wonderful thing. Both CDs and files. I like physical music best, and I guess that makes me a dinosaur. I like being able to handle something that I’m playing. But I get my share of files as well. How is contemporary jazz different from the masters of the genre in the 40s to 50s, or the more fusion-oriented players in the ‘70s and ‘80s? I’m not really sure that it is. I think perhaps that the music changes with the times, and what we’re hearing now is the equivalent of movements we’ve heard before. As the world grows and changes, so does the music.

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AVA LO N S T E A K A N D S E A FO O D SKYFIN ASIAN BISTRO D I S COV E R I E S TA B L E TA L K

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Clockwise from bottom, “Angry” lobster, pasta and Tomahawk bonein rib-eye

IF YOU GO: PARKING: Street parking HOURS: Mon.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 5-11 p.m. PRICES: Entrees $27$105 WEBSITE: avalondelray.com

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Avalon Steak & Seafood 110 E. Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, 561/593-2500 Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

tlantic Ave. welcomes another steakhouse into the mix. The corner space across from Cabana El Rey, which has undergone several iterations, is now a contemporary chophouse with crisp white tablecloths that complement its clean, sleek décor. The enticing reasons we all go to a steakhouse are present here—boozy cocktails, a diverse wine list, dry aged steaks, prime cuts, rich accompaniments, decadent sides and indulgent desserts. The menu is then enhanced with a selection of seafood, like a raw bar medley of oysters, shrimp and crab alongside the customary octopus, fish, scallops and lobster. We kicked off the evening with a Calling Card ($14) cocktail, a balanced and refreshing blend of cucumber, Hendrick’s gin, lime juice, simple syrup and black pepper. Appetizers followed, with the tuna tartare ($18) delicately resting on an avocado puree and topped with crispy shallots and soy sauce, and a charred octopus ($18) floating in an unexpected portion of cannellini beans. Avalon’s signature dish has to be its Angry Lobster. Lumpy for an appetizer (it’s $35), it’s more than a pound of deconstructed lobster complete with head, legs, tail and claws. The sauce is what stands out here, with notes of sriracha and ginger taking center stage.

With the entrées, the scent of the soft black truffle butter trickling down the 9-ounce filet mignon ($47) arrived before the dish. It was an additional enhancement ($7) we choose, and was well worth it. Tender with a nice crust and not overly salty, it was a well-prepared steak. The 28-day, 20-ounce prime rib-eye chop ($68) was a thicker cut but just as tender. As for the seafood, if you’re looking to go big, there’s a 28-ounce bone-in tuna“rib-eye”for $105, but you’ll also find a miso black cod and a flaky Maine halibut served over cauliflower in a citrus brown butter sauce accented with capers and pine nuts that was simple but well executed. Inspired by its coastal setting, I do wish there were more local catches on the menu. You’ll find the usual dessert options for your meal’s finale, including cheesecake, Key lime pie, ice cream and sorbets. If you’re looking for something more tropical, try the Hawaiian cheesecake ($12)—it’s the best of both worlds, smooth and creamy with pineapple and toasted coconut accents. To spare you the hassle, I suggest checking out the restaurant during nonpeak hours, where wait times can exceed 30 minutes. Avoiding that annoyance will ensure your culinary journey is simply paved with Avalon’s palate-pleasing dishes.

AARON BRISTOL

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Spicy Three Way rolls; inset, chef Aden Lee

Skyfin Asian Bistro 8221 Glades Road, Boca Raton; 561/556-1688

S Clockwise from bottom, tempura cheesecake, Tangerine Beef Peel and Yellowtail Jalapeño

IF YOU GO PARKING: Parking lot HOURS: Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat., 12 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sun., 12 p.m.9:30 p.m. PRICES: Entrées $11.95-$28.95 WEBSITE: skyfinasianbistro.com

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outh Beach’s loss is Boca Raton’s gain. After nearly a decade of dishing out elevated Beijing cuisine at MR CHOW inside the posh W South Beach, chef Aden Lee left his sous chef position to venture out on his own. The Hong Kong native is bringing his extensive experience to Skyfin Asian Bistro without any of the Miami Beach pretention. Here, you’ll find both playfully named sushi rolls and fresh sashimi alongside protein-rich house specials, fried rice and noodles. Stepping inside, we were greeted by a modern aesthetic complemented by a striking fluorescent mural, cozy booths and an expansive sushi counter. We chose to sit on the front outdoor patio adorned with colorful begonias. To start the meal, there’s a selection of expected soups (think miso, hot & sour) along with sushi appetizers like the tuna tataki, tuna tartare and carpaccio (choose from octopus, salmon, yellowtail or scallop). We enjoyed the Yellowtail Jalapeño ($11.95), resembling a spiked ninja star; pointy slices of fish topped with thinly sliced peppers and a tangy ponzu sauce that let the simple flavor of the fish shine without being overly seasoned or spicy. If you want more options to nosh on before your sushi, the menu also offers a selection of kitchen appetizers that include edamame, gyoza, shumai and calamari. A bit of South Beach flair surfaced when the two

nine-piece sushi rolls we ordered landed on the table flanking a decorative illuminated goblet. The Spicy Three Way ($15.95) roll packed with avocado and salmon and yellowtail was topped with spicy tuna and delivered expected flavors and texture. Its partner on the plate, the Toro Roll ($18.95), was the star. Spicy tuna and tempura flakes were topped with bluefin tuna belly, avocado and black tobiko, or roe. We were nearly full but happy we made room for the Tangerine Peel Beef ($16.95). After the first bite, we could see why our waiter, who doted on all his tables on the patio with fierce efficiency and a warm sense of hospitality, recommended it. The meat was lightly fried with hints of caramelized citrus that managed to be both crunchy in some bites and tender without a hint of fat in others. Additional kitchen entrees included sweet and sour chicken, the Prawn W. with black truffle sauce and sautéed with asparagus and bell pepper, and uchi fried rice served with onions and mushrooms in a black truffle sauce. To tempt your sweet tooth, the menu offers mochi ice cream in a variety of flavors, fried banana and fried ice cream. We shared the tempura cheesecake ($7.95), with a chocolate drizzle and topped with a maraschino cherry, that had a balanced consistency—both creamy and crunchy—and was not overly sugary, making it a sweet ending to an overall laid-back and pleasant evening.

AARON BRISTOL

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

July/August 2021

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Let Us Change Your Mind About 2020

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dish, though, is the charred filet mignon with a red wine bone marrow reduction, with wickedly luscious house-made hazelnut gelato coming in a very close second. • Dinner nightly. 561/226-3022. $$$

Abe & Louie’s —2200 Glades Road. Steakhouse.

Burtons Grill & Bar —5580 N. Military Trail.

All Americans are endowed with certain inalienable rights, among them the right to a thick, juicy, perfectly cooked steak. At this posh, comfortable (and expensive) meatery, the USDA Prime steaks are indeed thick, juicy and perfectly cooked, also massively flavorful and served in enormous portions. Don’t miss the New York sirloin or prime rib, paired in classic steakhouse fashion with buttery hash browns and ubercreamy creamed spinach. Chased with an ice-cold martini or glass of red wine from the truly impressive list, it’s happiness pursued and captured. • Lunch/brunch Sun.-Fri., dinner nightly. 561/447-0024. $$$$

New American. Known for its reliable food as well as its non-gluten, Paleo and “B Choosy” kids menu, the first Florida location for this restaurant is deservedly crowded, so make reservations. Don’t miss the General Tso’s cauliflower, the pan-seared salmon (Paleo), the crab cakes or the Key lime pie. Popular half-portions are available, too. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/465-2036. $

Arturo’s Ristorante —6750 N. Federal Highway.

EDUARDO SCHNEIDER

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 the veal shank served on a bed of risotto. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/997-7373. $$$

Mussels at Boca Landing

DINING KEY $: Under $17 $$: $18–$35 $$$: $36–$50 $$$$: $50 and up

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Basilic Vietnamese Grill—200 S. Federal Highway. Vietnamese. This popular restaurant offers satisfying food and reasonable prices. Plus, there’s bubble tea. Opened in 2014, it has a wide range of Vietnamese favorites, such as cha gio tom heo, fried shrimp and pork Imperial rolls, all kinds of pho, noodle bowls, chicken curry and more. • Lunch and dinner six days a week; closed Tuesdays. 561/409-4964. $$

Bluefin Sushi and Thai—861 N.W. 51st St., Suite 1. Sushi/Thai. Arrive early for a table at this Asian hot spot— it’s popular with no reservations for parties fewer than six. Don’t skip the tempura lobster bomb, big in both size and taste. The ginger snapper will impress both Instagram and your stomach. Try the chicken satay and pad Thai. Bluefin offers a variety of dishes from multiple cultures, all well done. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/981-8986. $$ Boca Landing —999 E. Camino Real. Contemporary American. The Waterstone Resort & Marina’s signature restaurant, Boca Landing, offers the city’s only waterside dining and shows off its prime location and views. Heavy on small plates, the menu features tuna crudo, fried calamari and a killer cheese and charcuterie board. Probably the best

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 the pan-fried calamari to the restaurant’s signature spin on the Cobb 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 nightly. 561/368-1077. $$$

Casa D’Angelo —171 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. Chef Rickie Piper, who has mastered the menu and cuisine of this fine-dining staple for more than a decade, knows when to say when with both plating and ingredients. His dishes, including the sides and accompaniments, are visually appetizing and aromatic. A grilled veal chop easily 3 inches thick proved tender and juicy, and the wild mushrooms served alongside in a marsala added earthiness. • Dinner nightly. 561/996-1234. $$$ Casimir French Bistro —416 Via De Palmas, Suite 81. French. Take a trip overseas without leaving the city and enjoy excellently prepared traditional French dishes, such as duck l’orange or beef bourguignon, or go with Cajun chicken and veal Milanese. The comfortable dining room is a Parisian experience, as is the apple tarte tatin. This is a local favorite, and may we add they have what is as close to real French bread as anyplace in Boca? • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/955-6001. $$$

Chez Marie French Bistro —5030 Champion Blvd. French. Marie will greet you at the door of this nicely decorated, intimate, classic French restaurant tucked in the corner of a strip shopping area. This feels like an intimate neighborhood bistro and is a welcome discovery. From

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131 escargot encased in garlic butter, parsley and breadcrumbs to a tender duck a l’orange to an unforgettable crepe Suzette, you’ll be in Paris all evening. Voila! Also on the menu: pan-seared foie gras, tasty onion soup, seabass Bouillabaisse, coq au vin, rack of lamb, salads and more desserts. • Dinner nightly. 561/997-0027. $$

Chops Lobster Bar—101 Plaza Real S., Royal Palm Place. Steak, seafood. At this upscale downtown restaurant, 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 Nova Scotian tails flash-fried and served with drawn butter or sizable Maine specimens stuffed with lobster. Let’s face it: Trendy menus come and go, but a great steakhouse is a win-win on all occasions. • Dinner nightly. 561/395-2675. $$$$ Cuban Café—3350 N.W. Boca Raton Blvd., Suite B-30. Cuban. One thing Boca needs more of is coffee windows—and real Cuban restaurants. Which is undoubtedly why 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. $

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 nightly. 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 Choice short rib and the popular Buddha Bowl, with veggies, udon noodles and shrimp. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/417-5836. $$

Frank & Dino’s —39 S.E. First Ave. Italian. The Rat Pack is alive and well here in both décor and soundtrack. So, too, are traditional Italian dishes such as Dentice oreganata, capellini Pomodoro and tiramisu. But you may want to get there early for one of the longest happy hours around (11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. weekdays) for Damiano meatballs, filet mignon sliders or antipasto misto between lunch and dinner. • Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner nightly. 561/218-4636. $$$

Gary Rack’s Farmhouse Kitchen—399 S.E. Mizner Blvd. American. Natural, seasonal, sustainable. You’ll enjoy the varied menu, and won’t believe it’s made without butters or creams. Try the too-good-to-be-true buffalo-style cauliflower appetizer, the seared salmon or buffalo burger, and have apple skillet for dessert. Healthy never tasted so good. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/826-2625. $$

Grand Lux Cafe —6000 Glades Road, inside 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; brunch on Saturday and Sunday. 561/392-2141. $$

Everyday Favorites For an affordable bite at any time, consider these durable chains and homegrown Boca favorites—where the attire is understated and reservations are rarely necessary. 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 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. $$

Bonefish Grill—21065 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. Lunch on Saturdays. Brunch on Sundays. 561/483-4949. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 1880 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach, 561/732-1310; 9897 Lake Worth Road, Lake Worth, 561/965-2663; 11658 U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, 561/799-2965) $$ The Cheesecake Factory—5530 Glades Road. American. Oh, the choices! The chain has a Sunday brunch menu in addition to its main menu, which includes Chinese chicken salad and Cajun jambalaya. Don’t forget about the cheesecakes, from white chocolate and raspberry truffle offerings. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/393-0344. (Other Palm Beach County locations: CityPlace, West Palm Beach, 561/802-3838; Downtown at the Gardens, Palm Beach Gardens, 561/776-3711). $$ Nick’s New Haven-Style Pizzeria—2240 N.W. 19th St., Suite 904. Italian. Cross 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 of 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. $$ P.F. Chang’s—1400 Glades Road. Chinese. There may have been no revolution if Mao had simply eaten at the Boca outpost of P.F. Chang’s—the portions are large enough to feed the masses—and the exquisite tastes in each dish could soothe any tyrant. We particularly like the steamed fish of the day, as well as the Szechuan-style asparagus. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/393-3722. (Other Palm Beach County location: 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561/691-1610) $$

The Sandwich Shop at Buccan—350 S. County Road, Palm Beach. Takeout stop. Like big sister Buccan Italian restaurant, the Sandwich Shop is full of flavor and builds your favorite sandwich with just a touch of delicious creativity you won’t find elsewhere. Owned by celeb chef Clay Conley and partners, the menu has hot or cold sandwiches, salads, sides and drinks (both alcoholic and non). Good-sized portions mean the Italian and prosciutto subs include leftovers if you have some willpower.• Lunch daily. 561/833-6295. $$

Shake Shack—1400 Glades Road. American. We’re not sure there is really any such thing as a bad burger joint and when you have a really good one—like Shake Shack— there’s a little piece of heaven just a short order away. Shake Shack in University Commons has great all-Angus burgers, non-GMO buns, and a frozen custard that makes grown men weep. Throw in some crinkle-cut fries and life is the way it should be. And the outdoor patio is a definite bonus in these times. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/932-0847. $ Steve’s Wood Fired Pizza—9180 Glades Road. Italian. With an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and rigorous preparation—the hand-rolled dough rises for three days before use—this reliable purveyor offers varieties of ‘za that are both familiar and novel, from BBQ chicken and veggie primavera to Mom’s White Roasted Garlic and the Mupsa (mushroom, pepperoni and sausage) . • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sat., dinner Sun. 561/483-5665. $$

Tap 42—5050 Town Center Circle, Suite 247. Gastropub. This hugely popular nouveau-Industrial gastropub is not for the faint of eardrums when packed, but don’t let that discourage you. The kitchen here executes the hell out of a short, simple allday menu. Grilled salmon chopped salad with tomatillo ranch dressing is delightful, as is guacamole studded with fat chunks of bacon and charred corn. Same goes for decadent shrimp mac-n-cheese. The wicked-good chocolate bread pudding with salted caramel sauce would be the envy of any Big Easy eatery. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Brunch Sat.-Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/235-5819. $

True Restaurant-A Maryland Bistro—147 S.E. First Ave. American. True is the only place in South Florida to eat authentic Baltimore crab cakes. This small, unpretentious venue reminds us of a Key West food shack. The food is fabulous. Try anything with crab (crab dip, crab soup, crab cakes), but don’t miss the bacon-wrapped dates, beef brisket sliders and Saturday Maryland Blue Crabs.• Lunch and Dinner Tues.-Sat. 561/334-2144. $$

The Grille On Congress—5101 Congress

Houston’s —1900 N.W. Executive Center Circle. Con-

Ave. American. Dishes at this longtime favorite range from tasty chicken entrees and main-plate salads to seafood options like Asian-glazed salmon or pan-seared yellowtail snapper. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/912-9800. $$

temporary American. Convenient location, stylish ambience and impeccable service are hallmarks of this local outpost of the Hillstone restaurant chain. There are plenty of reasons why this is one of the most popular business lunch spots in all July/August 2021

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Dog Days of Summer

Local restaurants cater to foodie Fidos and their obedient owners Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

ne of the many benefits of living here is being able to sit outdoors year-round to enjoy a cool cocktail or enticing meal (or both!). While we may not be sitting outdoors at noon these days, the extended summer sunshine gives us an opportunity to dine with the sunset glow. The temperate dusk is an ideal time to take advantage of the thoughtfully created doggie menus and pup parents-only specials at these local restaurants. MAX’S GRILLE Even after 30 years, this Boca staple continues to reinvent itself and surprise patrons with new culinary creations. Indulge in its recently launched sushi menu or special sushi happy hour while your furry friend enjoys a meal from the Mizner Bark Café menu or the I’ve Been Really Good 8-ounce filet mignon. 404 Plaza Real, Mizner Park, Boca Raton; 561/3680080; maxsgrille.com BRK REPUBLIC DOG PARK & BAR Part dog park, part bar, this space caters to our fourlegged friends with an indoor/outdoor dog park alongside a bar with a variety of beers on tap and a taco stand. A membership is required to ensure all dogs are vaccinated, but you can purchase a daily ($10), monthly ($20) or yearly membership ($220), which gives you 10 percent off your bar tabs. 521 Clematis St., West Palm Beach; 561/340-3848; brkrepublic.com

DARBSTER This plant-based café, open for dinner and weekend brunch, has a variety of outdoor spaces for you and your dog to enjoy. Named after the owners’ puppy mill survivor, Darby, the waterfront restaurant created its own foundation with a mission to help stray dogs and cats. Diners can choose from dishes that are vegan, like the eggplant scallops or lasagna. On Sundays, bring your dog out to dinner (from 5-7 p.m.) and receive 20 percent off your entrée. 8020 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach; 561/586-2622; darbster.com NAUTI DAWG MARINA CAFÉ The casual Lighthouse Point Marina café offers a For the Dawgs menu, which is available all day, and includes a cheeseburger, beef filet and even a hot dawg. Weekly specials include a Monday night Yappy Hour with 50 percent off any dog entrée, live music on Wednesdays and weekend brunch where traditional breakfast shares the menu with seafood. 2841 Marina Circle, Lighthouse Point; 954/941-0246; nautidawg.com SHOOTER’S WATERFRONT Your pup will eat like royalty at this waterfront restaurant with human-grade dishes like the Ocean Reef Turkey and the Bahia Beef. It also offers a spacious outdoor area, with plush couches shaded by palm trees and pet-friendly Astroturf, for a tail-wagging, memory-making meal. 3033 N.E. 32nd Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/566-2855; shooterswaterfront.com

Doggie dining is a thing now at Shooter’s in Fort Lauderdale.

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Come enjoy our delicious cuisine! of Boca, including menu items like Cajun trout, the mammoth salad offerings and the tasty baby back ribs. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/998-0550. $$$

We believe that good times deserve great food!

Il Mulino New York Boca Raton —451 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. From the four pre-menu bites to the after-dinner coffee from freshly ground beans, this is a white-tablecloth venue that delivers on its upscale promises. Try the langostino, the red snapper, the risotto, the pasta, or go for the ceviches, caviars and seafood tower. Save room for dessert and complimentary lemoncello. Make a night of it. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/338-8606. $$$ Jimmy’s Fries to Caviar —6299 N. Federal Highway. Contemporary American. Going one better than soup to nuts defines Jimmy Mills’ Boca restaurant, an easygoing, affordable bistro in the old Darbster space that really does offer fries, caviar and more. Four varieties of fish eggs are shown off nicely crowning a quartet of deviled eggs, while the thick-cut fries complement a massively flavorful, almost fork-tender hanger steak in the classic steak frites.Try the seasonal soups as well. • Dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/617-5965. $$

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 Asian-inspired gastropub delivers an inventive punch to the taste buds. Among the hardest hitters is its angry shrimp dumplings and the char sui pork belly bao bun. The Saigon duck pho is yet one more reason to go. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/347-7322. $$

8221 Glades Rd #5&6 Boca Raton, FL 33434 561-556-1688

Located in Piccadilly Square, just west of the Turnpike skyfi n a si a n bi st r o. co m

Kathy’s Gazebo Café —4199 N. Federal Highway. Traditional French. Elegance, civility and very good food meet here for dinners that last at least two hours, and it’s worth it. Try the Dover sole (pricey, but it won’t disappoint), the escargot, coq au vin if it’s a nightly special, gazpacho, duck, veal, lobster and more. Don’t forget the rich, well-crafted desserts. Classical dining at a longtime standard; jackets recommended. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/395-6033. $$$

Ke’e Grill —17940 N. Military Trail, Suite 700. Traditional American. In this busy dining scene for more than 30 years, you will find a lot of seafood (fried calamari, blue crab cakes, yellowtail snapper Francaise and lots more), a few steak, chicken, lamb and pork options, and a quality house-made apple crisp. Your traditional choices are baked, fried, breaded, grilled, broiled, sauteed. With Provencal, Francaise, maple mustard glaze, toasted macadamia nut pesto and piccata twists. A consistent crowd for a consistent menu. • Dinner nightly. 561/995-5044. $$$ La Nouvelle Maison—455 E. Palmetto Park Blvd. French. Elegant, sophisticated French cuisine, white-glove service and a trio of stylish dining rooms make Arturo Gismondi’s homage to Boca’s storied La Vieille Maison the home away from home to anyone who appreciates the finer points of elegant dining. The cuisine showcases both first-rate ingredients and precise execution, whether a generous slab of silken foie gras with plum gastrique, posh lobster salad, cookbook-perfect rendition of steak frites and an assortment of desserts that range from homey apple tart to bananas Foster with chocolate and Grand Marnier. • Dinner nightly. 561/338-3003. $$$ La Villetta—4351 N. Federal Highway. Italian. This is a well-edited version of a traditional Italian menu, complete with

Established 1991

OPEN DAILY! BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER 80 S. Federal Highway • Deerfield Beach, FL • (954) 480-8402

www.olympiaflamediner.com

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Honey Business This age-old sweetener is turning up in savory seafood and salads alike Written by LYNN KALBER

Here are local honey sellers, along with beekeeper organizations.

hen my father took us to his beehives, the best part was chewing on the honeycomb. The flying bees didn’t upset me, and I was never stung. That said, I do have a healthy respect for both bees and honey. So when I found Liquid Gold raw honey for sale at a Mounts Botanical Garden plant event, I purchased blackberry honey, clover honey and bamboo honey, which sell for about $8 a quarter-pound. All taste different, and all look different. Honey has sweetened more than tea in our lives, with strides in holistic health encouraging higher consumption of this liquid gold. The list of benefits from eating local honey—where the bees gather nectar from plants and flowers

BEE HEALTHY HONEY FARMS, INC. 7396 Skyline Drive Delray Beach 561/921-1475 beehealthyhoneyfarms.com BEE UNIQUE 3111 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach 561/379-4404 worldsfinestrawhoney.com LIQUID GOLD RAW HONEY liquidgold.store ASSOCIATIONS: palmbeachbeekeepers.org tcbeekeepers.org

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HONEY GRILLED SHRIMP Ingredients Original recipe yields 3 servings 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or crushed red pepper to taste) 1/4 tablespoon ground black pepper 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons dry white wine 2 tablespoons Italian-style salad dressing 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails attached 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Skewers

in your area—include helping with allergies, contributing to soaps and lotions to help retain moisture in your skin, reducing inflammation, acting as an antioxidant, relieving stress and working as a dietary supplement. Bee pollen is high in protein and amino acids, as well as selenium, known to help keep our livers healthy. Raw honey is the key to the touted health benefits, along with royal jelly (produced from young nurse bees) and propolis (a healing mixture made with pollen). Clearly the best part is the taste. Other locally produced flavors include honeys made from saw palmetto, buckwheat, wildflowers, lychees, mangrove, orange blossom and the Florida state honey, rare raw tupelo made from a plant along the Apalachicola River near

1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce, wine and salad dressing; add shrimp, and toss to coat. Cover, and marinate in refrigerator for 1 hour. Preheat grill for high heat. Thread shrimp onto skewers, piercing once near the tail and once near the head. Discard marinade.

Tallahassee. The hives are carefully placed by the beekeepers away from people and pesticides. While the most common use for honey is in tea or to help make medicine palatable, it can shine in a recipe or be used as a background ingredient to instill a richness and depth into dishes. Try a drizzle over your next salmon dish, or use it in a salad dressing. In a sauce for chicken or shrimp, it can crystallize if grilled, adding a sweet crust. Try this recipe for Honey Grilled Shrimp from allrecipes.com. It’s one of my favorites, but I add crushed red pepper to the sauce instead of garlic powder.

In a small bowl, stir together honey, melted butter, and remaining 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Set aside for basting. Lightly oil grill grate. Grill shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until opaque. Baste occasionally with the honey-butter sauce while grilling.

Directions In large bowl, mix together garlic powder, black pepper,

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135 Le Rivage —450 N.E. 20th St., Suite 103. 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. • Dinner nightly. 561/620-0033. $$

Loch Bar —346 Plaza Real. Seafood. This sister restaurant to Ouzo Bay includes fried oysters, moules frites and Maryland crab cakes. The bar offers literally hundreds of whiskeys, a noisy happy hour crowd and live music most nights. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/939-6600. $$ Louie Bossi’s—100 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. This jumping joint serves terrific Neapolitan pizza (thin crust), but don’t miss the other entrées. Start with a charcuterie/cheese plate and grab the amazing breadsticks. All breads and pastas are made on the premises. Other faves include the carbonara and the calamari, and save room for house-made gelato. Unusual features: Try the bocce ball court included with the retro Italian décor. • Lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. 561/336-6699. $$$

Luff’s Fish House —390 E. Palmetto Park Road. Seafood. A renovated 1920s bungalow houses this shipshape restaurant, in addition to two large, outdoor deck and patio areas. It’s known for familiar dish names with new tweaks: smoked fish-hummus dip, falafel fish fritters, crab guacamole, mussels in coconut curry broth, plus the paella on Sundays only. Don’t leave without the enormous slice of the Key lime pie, topped with meringue on a graham cracker crust. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/609-2660. $$ Madison’s —2006 N.W. Executive Center Circle. American. This location is something of a Bermuda Triangle for restaurants, with at least four restaurants preceding this local outpost of a Canadian chain that styles itself a “New York grill and bar.” What Madison’s has going for it is an exceedingly handsome and capacious space, and service that is as professional as it is personable. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/994-0808. $$$ Maggiano’s —21090 St. Andrews Blvd. Italian. Do as the Italians do, and order family-style: Sit back and watch the endless amounts of gorgeous foods grace your table. In this manner, you receive two appetizers, a salad, two pastas, two entrées and two desserts. The menu also includes lighter takes on staples like chicken parm, fettuccine alfredo and chicken piccata. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/361-8244. $$ Mario’s Osteria—1400 Glades Road, Suite 210. Italian. This popular spot is swanky, but the rustic Italian fare keeps with an osteria’s humbler pretensions. Signature dishes like the garlic rolls, lasagna and eggplant “pancakes” are on the new menu, as are butternut squash ravioli and thick, juicy rib-eye served “arrabiata” style. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/239-7000. $$

Matteo’s—233 S. Federal Highway, Suite 108. 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 nightly. 561/392-0773. $$

Buzz Bite I Happy Bastille Day

n celebration of France’s national holiday on July 14, we’ve compiled a list of a few of the area’s French restaurants so that you can join in on the festivities with a glass of Champagne and a few decadent specialties. Santé, and bon appétit!

LA NOUVELLE MAISON The contemporary French restaurant serves traditional hors d’oeuvres like onion soup and duck liver pâté alongside twice-cooked duckling and wagyu beef short rib Bourguignon. 455 E. Palmetto Park Road; 561/338-3003; lnmbocaraton.com CHEZ MARIE FRENCH BISTRO Let chef Stéphane transport you to his homeland with signature dishes like the pan-seared foie gras, coq au vin and duck a l’orange. 5030 Champion Blvd.; 561/9970027; chezmariefrenchbistro.com

PAPPHOTO

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. $$$

La Nouvelle

PISTACHE For a lively celebration, head over to this classic French bistro near the West Palm Beach waterfront. The expansive patio is the ideal spot to enjoy a refreshing glass of rosé and a croque-monsieur or quiche. Don’t forget to order a side of pomme frites (fries)! 101 N. Clematis St.; 561/833-5090; pistachewpb.com TULIP CAFÉ If you want to celebrate at home while still embracing the French joie de vivre, pick up a few homemade croissants, macarons or éclairs at this Boca Raton bakery. 21073 Powerline Road; 561/488-8022; french-bakery-tulipe-cafe.business.site —Christie Galeano-DeMott

Max’s Grille—404 Plaza Real. Contemporary American. After 24 years in Mizner Park, This modern American bistro is a true local classic. The food and decor are both timeless and up to date, and the ambience is that of a smooth-running big-city bistro. Service is personable and proficient. The menu is composed of dishes you really want to eat, from the applewood bacon-wrapped meatloaf to the wickedly indulgent crème brûlèe pie. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Brunch Sat–Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/368-0080. $$ Morton’s The Steakhouse—5050 Town Center Circle, Suite 219. Steakhouse. There’s seemingly no end to diners’ love of huge slabs of high-quality aged beef, nor to the carnivores who pack the clubby-swanky dining room of this meatery. While the star of the beef show is the giant bone-in filet mignon, seasonally featured is the American Wagyu New York strip. Finish off your meal with one of the decadent desserts.• Dinner nightly. 561/392-7724. $$$$

New York Prime —2350 N.W. Executive Center Drive. Steakhouse. This wildly popular Boca meatery Monday, Monday 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 steak-house classics like oysters Rockefeller, garlicky spinach and crusty hash browns. • Dinner nightly. 561/998-3881. $$$$

Prezzo —5560 N. Military Trail. Italian. A reincarnation of a popular 1990s Boca venue, this version has updated the dining room, kept the yummy oven-baked focaccia bread slices, and added a 21st-century taste to the menu. Don’t miss the tender bone-in pork chop, thin-crust pizza and seafood specials. Vegetarian and gluten-free choices are on the menu, too. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/314-6840. $$ Rafina—6877 S.W. 18th St. Greek. If you find the ambience of most Greek restaurants to be like a frat party with flaming cheese and ouzo, this contemporary, casually elegant spot will be welcome relief. Food and decor favor refinement over rusticity, even in such hearty and ubiquitous dishes as pasJuly/August 2021

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titsio and spanakopita. Standout dishes include the moussaka, the creamy and mildly citrusy avgolemono soup and the precisely grilled, simply adorned (with olive oil, lemon and capers) branzino. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/409-3673. $$

Rebel House —297 E. Palmetto Park Road. American Eclectic. As wild visually as it is in the kitchen, this place rocks on all points. Start with the popcorn flavor of the day (instead of bread) and don’t miss the cauliflower Caesar salad, Uncle Pinkie’s Fried Rice, the lobster meatballs or whatever duck option is on the menu. You can’t miss with these dishes. • Dinner nightly, brunch Sat.-Sun. 561/353-5888. $$ Ristorante Sapori—301 Via de Palmas, Royal Palm Place. Italian. Sapori features fresh fish, veal and chicken dishes imbued with subtle flavors. The grilled Italian branzino, the veal chop Milanese and the zuppa di pesce served over linguine are especially tasty, and the pasta (all 17 kinds!) is available in full and half orders, with your choice of 15 zesty sauces. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/367-9779. $$

Ruth’s Chris —225 N.E. Mizner Blvd., Suite 100. Steakhouse. Not only does this steakhouse favorite emphasize its New Orleans roots, it also distinguishes itself from its competitors by just serving better food. The signature chopped salad has a list of ingredients as long as a hose but they all work together. And how can you not like a salad topped with crispy fried onion strings? Steaks are USDA Prime and immensely flavorful, like a perfectly seared New York strip. The white chocolate bread pudding is simply wicked. • Dinner nightly. 561/392-6746. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 651 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561/514-3544; 661 U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, 561/863-0660.) $$$$

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, 561/625-5852.) $$

Six Tables a Restaurant—112 N.E. Second

Old-fashioned meatballs form Vino Wine Bar

St., Boca Raton. American. Chef/owner Jonathan Fyhrie has a unique, elegant, one-seating, prix-fixe dinner and only six tables. The decor reflects the food, which is innovative in unexpected but attractive ways. Open since 2004, this restaurant’s staying power proves the pull of a beautiful space, amazing food and special attention from a talented staff. The velvety lobster bisque is a signature dish. The night’s options can include rack of lamb, filet au poivre, wild Scottish king salmon, crispy duck and more, all done beautifully. Plan on a two-to-three-hour dinner. It’s worth it. • Dinner nightly. 561/347-6260. $$$$

Sushi Ray —5250 Town Center Circle, Suite 111. Japa-

Heat Index

Warike Peruvian Bistro has four degrees of inhouse sauce, from mild to hot, hot, hot.

nese/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 $22. • Lunch Mon.–Fri., dinner nightly. 561/394-9506. $$

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 quattro formaggio fiocchi and spiced pear. The scarletta pepper steak and bone-in pork chops are excellent, as are the braised Angus beef short ribs with toasted pearl barley and collard greens. For dessert, try the red velvet bread bocamag.com

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pudding and your choice of a trio of sorbets. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. Brunch Sat.–Sun. 561/922-6699. $$

Taverna Kyma—6298 N. Federal Highway. Greek/ Mediterranean. Hankering for a traditional Greek meal, and a menu that offers just about everything? This is where you want to try the meze plates (cold, hot, seafood, veggie), saganaki, grilled entrees and kebobs. From the taramosalata to the branzino and pastitsio, servings are generous and good. Don’t forget dessert. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/994-2828. $$ Trattoria Romana —499 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. This local mainstay does Italian classics and its own lengthy list of ambitious specials with unusual skill and aplomb. The service is at a level not always seen in local restaurants. Pay attention to the daily specials, especially if they include impeccably done langostini oreganata and the restaurant’s signature jumbo shrimp saltimbocca. • Dinner nightly. 561/393-6715. $$$

Twenty Twenty Grille—141 Via Naranjas, Suite 45. 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 nightly. 561/990-7969. $$$

Villagio Italian Eatery—344 Plaza 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. $$

Vino —114 N.E. Second St. Wine Bar/Italian. An impressive wine list of some 250 plus bottles (all available by the glass) offers a multitude of choices, especially among Italian and California reds. The menu of “Italian tapas” includes roasted red peppers with Provolone, as well as ricotta gnocchi with San Marzano tomatoes. • Dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/869-0030. $$

Warike Peruvian Bistro —2399 N. Federal Highway. Peruvian. Classic dishes, such as aji de gallina, and classic drinks—Warike Sour—make this small restaurant a place to remember. Modern, clean décor and a menu that includes well-prepared seafood, meat or vegetarian meals means it’s a busy venue, so reservations are recommended. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/465-5922. $$

WEST BOCA Boon’s Asian Bistro—19605 N. State Road 7. Japanese/Thai. This is one of two Boon’s (the other is in Delray Beach), and it’s where the rush to eat excellent sushi started. The fast-moving staff is choreographed to deliver dishes such as shrimp pad Thai that’s light, delicate and happily filled with shrimp. The Thai fried rice is unusually delicate too, with lots of egg, and is some of the best around. The sushi rolls are as fresh and inventive (try the Daimyo roll) as they are beautifully presented. Go early or call for a reservation. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/883-0202. $$ Chloe’s Bistro —6885 S.W. 18th St. Italian. One of the few venues that’s on the water, with food to match the view. Try the seafood linguine, the large snapper filets in Marechiara

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Buzz Bite II Delray Beach Restaurant Month Is Back

he anticipated return of this culinary event will once again be extended to a full month of deals and delicious dishes. Throughout the entire month of August, you will be able to visit more than 30 participating local restaurants, each with an enticing prixfixe menu. Now is your opportunity to check out a new restaurant you haven’t tried or support one of your favorites. Whether you’re craving a hearty pasta dish, fresh seafood, a juicy steak or a decadent dessert, you’ll find it among Delray Beach’s extensive dining scene. For additional information, visit downtowndelraybeach.com/restaurantmonth. —Christie Galeano-DeMott

sauce, and the desserts to end on a sweet note. House-made pasta and a good wine list ensure a pleasant, satisfying meal. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/334-2088. $$

City Fish Market—7940 Glades Road. 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 nightly. 561/487-1600. $$

Ditmas Kitchen—21077 Powerline Road. Contemporary kosher. This west Boca restaurant is named after a Brooklyn avenue in a district known for its food. Here you’ll find very good casual food, and no dairy products are used. Try the Hibachi salmon, all-kale Caesar salad, the shnitzel sandwich. • Dinner Sun.-Thurs. 561/826-8875. $$$ La Ferme—9101 Lakeridge Blvd. French/Mediterranean. Classic style and classically oriented French cuisine come together at this elegant yet comfortable restaurant in a west Boca shopping mall. Though there are a few Asian and Italian-inflected dishes on the menu, at its heart Le Ferme (“the farm”) is as French as the Eiffel Tower. Start with the foie gras terrine and proceed to lamb rack or pan-seared salmon with braised baby artichokes. C’est délicieux. • Dinner nightly. 561/654-6600. $$$

Oli’s Fashion Cuisine —6897 S.W. 18th St. Modern American. With the unusual name comes a menu sporting lobster risotto to tuna tacos, grilled mahi and more. There are Italian, vegetarian, steak, flatbreads, salads and desserts, all pleasing to the eye and palate. Inside is a bit noisy, so try the outdoor, lakeside patio for a quieter meal. • Lunch and dinner daily, breakfast weekends. 561/571-6920. $$

Oliv Pit Athenian Grille—6006 S.W. 18th St. Modern Greek. The owners’ goal of bringing together the best of Greek July/August 2021

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cooking under one roof, much like the melting pot that is Athens, is covered here in an extensive menu. The best way to enjoy the food is to share it: the Pikilia trio with tzatziki, spicy feta and eggplant spread is a starting place. Try the mix grill platter and the hearty red Greek wine. End the night with a unique, velvety frappe cappuccino. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/409-2049. $$

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 nightly. 561/470-0112. $$

BOYNTON BEACH Driftwood —2005 S. Federal Highway. Modern

CRISTINA MORGADO

American. Take food combos that sound unusual (popcorn sauce, avocado chocolate ice cream) but that taste wonderful and you’ve got Chef Jimmy Everett’s ideas on the table. They don’t last long, because they taste terrific. Try the smoked swordfish, the lobster with pickled okra, ricotta dumplings, the burger with gouda, the grilled octopus and pastrami’d chicken breast with roasted cabbage. • Brunch Sun. Dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/733-4782. $$

Pasta fagioli from Villa Rosano

Josie’s Italian Ristorante—1602 S. Federal Highway. Italian. Famed chef and South Florida culinary godfather Mark Militello is back at Josie’s after a brief stint at Boca’s Prezzo, and his magic in the kitchen of this cozy, old-school Italian restaurant is duly noted. His influence is evident in the daily specials, but old favorites like beefy short rib meatballs, an upmarket version of the classic San Francisco cioppino, and Josie’s signature veal Bersaglieri (veal medallions with artichokes, olives and roasted peppers in lemon-white wine sauce) don’t fail to satisfy either. • Lunch Mon.-Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/364-9601. $$ Prime Catch—700 E. Woolbright Road. Seafood. Waterfront restaurants are few and far between in our neck of the woods, and those with good food are even more rare. Prime Catch, at the foot of the Woolbright bridge on the Intracoastal, is a best-kept secret. The simple pleasures here soar—a perfectly grilled piece of mahi or bouillabaisse overflowing with tender fish. Don’t miss one of the best Key lime pies around. • Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch. 561/737-8822. $$

Raising the Bar

If you just want a dockside drink at its new waterfront bar, try one of Prime Catch’s bar bites. We like the jumbo lump crab fries and the crispy artichoke hearts.

Sushi Simon —1628 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. This 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

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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. $$

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 not under any circumstances be missed. • Lunch Mon.-Sat. Dinner nightly. 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 sweetsalty-earthy-pungent mélange of pears, pancetta, Gorgonzola, sun-dried figs and mozzarella. • Lunch Tues.-Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/381-0037. $ 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. 561/665-4900. $$

Beg for More Izakaya—19 S.E. Fifth Ave. Japanese Small Plates. The large sake, whisky and beer menu here pairs beautifully with the small plates full of everything except sushi. No sushi. And that’s fine. Try the takoyaki (octopus balls), the crispy salmon tacos and anything with the addictive kimchi, such as the kimchi fried rice. There are pasta, teriyaki and simmered duck with bok choy dishes—or 16 varieties of yakitori (food on skewers). You’ll be back to beg for more. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/563-8849. $$ Brulé Bistro —200 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. The regular menu of this Pineapple Grove favorite always has satisfying dishes. Its specialties include crab tortellini with black truffles, chicken meatballs with coconut broth and cashews, plus signature dessert pistachio crème brùlée. Spirits and house cocktails steeped in speakeast style are paired with an ever-changing menu. Outside tables offer the best option for conversation. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/274-2046. $$

Burt & Max’s —9089 W. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. This bastion of contemporary comfort food in west Delray is approaching local landmark status, forging its own menu while borrowing a few dishes from Max’s Grille, like the hearty chopped salad and bacon-wrapped meatloaf. Other dishes are variations on the comfort food theme, including a stellar truffle-scented wild mushroom pizza. • Dinner nightly. Sunday brunch. 561/638-6380. $$

Cabana El Rey—105 E. Atlantic Ave. Cuban tropical. Little Havana is alive and well in Delray. The menu is a palette-pleasing travelogue, including starters like mariquitas (fried banana chips) and main courses such as seafood paella (think mussels, shrimp, clams, conch, scallops and octopus). • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/274-9090. $$

Caffe Luna Rosa —34 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. Italian. This multiple Delray Beach-award winning restaurant

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has sparkling service, comfort food taken to a higher level, and a setting just steps from the Atlantic. Open since 1993, and a success since then, they dish up big flavors in a tiny space, so call for reservations. Try the calamari fritto misto, then the rigatoni pomodoro and leave room for dessert. Or come back for breakfast. • Open daily from breakfast through dinner. 561-274-9404. $$

Casa L’Acqua—9 S.E. Seventh Ave. Italian. You’ll get what you pay for here: very good Italian food in an upscale, modern, cool gray and white restaurant that is a refreshing change from busy Atlantic Avenue. The antipasti (bread, balsamic/honey dipping sauce, Parmesan chunks, bruschetta) are so good, they could be dinner. But save room for the pollo Parmigiana, the scallopine piccate al limone, the four kinds of risotto, and dessert. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/563-7492. $$$ City Oyster—213 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. This stylish mainstay of Big Time Restaurant Group serves up reasonably priced seafood that never disappoints, such as shrimp and grits with a jumbo crab cake. This is the place to see and be seen in Delray, and the food lives up to its profile. • Lunch Mon.–Sun. Dinner nightly. Outdoor dining. 561/272-0220. $$ Cut 432—432 E. Atlantic Ave. Steakhouse. 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 wetaged beef is appropriately tender and tasty. • Dinner nightly. 561/272-9898. $$$

RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

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-turnedrestaurant is, as they say, a trip. • Dinner nightly. 561/330-3232. $$

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 stellar flatbreads, the thick and juicy 10-ounce special blend burger or homey seasonal cobbler. And the waterfront location just seems to make everything taste better. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Brunch Sat.–Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/665-8484. $ 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 tangy tomatillo salsas to the world-class fish tacos clad in delicate fried skin, set off by tart pineapple salsa. Cinnamon and sugar-dusted churros are the perfect dessert. And check out the margaritas, especially the smoky blend of mezcal and blanco tequila. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/865-5350. $$

Elisabetta’s—32 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. An ornate Italian spot, with classically prepared dishes including spiedini shrimp, burrata de prosciutto bruschetta, costoletta di vitello (veal), a guanciale pizza, cacio e pepe pasta, malfadine Amatriciana and

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gemelli puttanesca. Portions are large and that, thankfully, goes for the homemade gelati, too. The best seating outdoors is the second-floor balcony overlooking Atlantic Avenue. • Lunch and dinner daily; weekend brunch. 561/650-6699. $$

The Grove —187 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. Chef and sommelier Michael Haycook and Dining Room Manager Paul Strike change their menu biweekly, turning out dishes exhilarating in their freshness, creativity and elegant simplicity. An appetizer of octopus with olive oil, crushed potato aioli and lemon is outstanding. • Dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/2663750. $$ Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar—1841 S. Federal Highway. American. You don’t have to worry about calories (most dishes are under 500), you don’t have to worry about finding something you haven’t tried before (new items are added every three months) and freshness is the silent ingredient throughout. Try the pesto Caprese flatbread, the supergrain salad and the steak or salmon or chicken. Desserts offer big tastes in small jars. • Lunch and dinner daily; brunch on weekends. 561/266-3239. $$

Henry’s—16850 Jog Road. American. This casual, unpretentious restaurant 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. $$

Il Girasole—2275 S. Federal Highway. Northern Italian. If you want Northern Italian in a low-key atmosphere, and nobody rushing you out the door, this is your spot. Start with something

Executive Chef / Owner Suzanne Perrotto

561-271-9423 • rosesdaughterdelray.com 169 NE 2nd Ave. Delray Beach, FL 33444 in Pineapple Grove

561-274-2046 • brulebistro.com 200 NE 2 Ave. Delray Beach, FL 33444 in Pineapple Grove nd

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from the very good wine list. Try the yellowtail snapper, the penne Caprese and the capellini Gamberi, and leave room for the desserts. Reservations recommended. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/272-3566. $$

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. This is is a bona fide local go-to spot that never disappoints. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/272-3390. $$

Jimmy’s Bistro —9 S. Swinton Ave. Contemporary American. This small gem off noisy Atlantic Avenue is big on taste and ambience, and has been busy since 2009. You can travel the world with dumplings, conch fritters, pork schnitzel, rigatoni Bolognese, étouffée and more. Reservations are recommended at this laid-back, comfortable venue. • Dinner nightly. 561/865-5774. $$

AARON BRISTOL

Joseph’s Wine Bar —200 N.E. Second Ave. Med-

Tuscan snapper filet with artichoke hearts, tomatoes and olives from Sazio

Back to the Garden

The Sundy House garden has the oldest royal poinciana tree in Palm Beach County.

iterranean-American. Joseph’s is an elegant, comfortable, intimate nook in Delray’s Pineapple Grove, and an ideal place for a lazy evening. This family affair—owner Joseph Boueri, wife Margaret in the kitchen, and son Elie and daughter Romy working the front of the house—has all tastes covered. Try the special cheese platter, the duck a l’orange or the rack of lamb. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/272-6100. $$

La Cigale —253 S.E. Fifth Ave. Mediterranean. Popular venue since 2001, with Greek and Italian dishes and more. Highlights are seafood paella, roasted half duck and grilled jumbo artichoke appetizer. Lots of favorites on the menu: calf’s liver, veal osso buco, branzino, seafood crepes. Nice outdoor seating if weather permits. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/265-0600. $$ Latitudes —2809 S. Ocean Blvd. Modern American. You should come for both the sunset and the food. This oceanfront restaurant is a gem tucked inside the Delray Sands resort. From the airy, bubbly interior to the raw bar, the décor is soothing and fun. Try the lobster and crab stuffed shrimp, the miso-glazed Skuna Bay salmon, the branzino or the veal Bolognese. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/278-6241. $$$ Lemongrass Bistro —420 E. Atlantic Ave. PanAsian. 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). $

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. Check out the high-top seating or bar stools during an excellent happy hour menu that includes deviled eggs, pork sliders, chicken wings and a happy crowd. Entrees are generous and well executed. Try the fish and chips, one of six burgers, fish tacos and more. • Dinner nightly. Brunch Sat.Sun. 561/265-5093. $$ bocamag.com

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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. $$$ Rose’s Daughter—169 N.E. Second Ave. Italian. While not your traditional Italian trattoria, it is a place to find new favorites and revisit old standards updated with delicious ingredients and high standards. Try the Monet-colored lobster risotto, or house-made pasta, pizza, bread and desserts. From the mushroom arancini to the tiramisu, you will be glad Owner/Chef Suzanne Perrotto is in the kitchen. Indoor and outdoor seating. • Dinner Wed.-Sun. 561/271-9423. $$ Salt7—32 S.E. Second Ave. Modern American. All the pieces needed to create a top-notch restaurant are here: talented chef, great food, excellent service. From the pea risotto to the crab cake to the signature steaks and a lot more, this is a venue worth the money. Thanks goes to Executive Chef Paul Niedermann, who won TV’s notorious “Hell’s Kitchen” show, and his talent is displayed here on the plate. • Dinner Mon.-Sat. Brunch Sunday. 561/274-7258. $$$ Sazio —131 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. This long-lived venue on crowded Atlantic Avenue is a reason to sit down and take a breath. Then take up a fork and try the linguine with white clam sauce or the ravioli Sazio or grilled skirt steak or pretty much anything on the menu. Prices are reasonable; leftovers are popular. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/272-5540. $$

Sundy House —106 S. Swinton Ave. Contemporary American. Set in a lush, tropical garden, the outside tables here are the most coveted, second only to the tastes and combinations in the shrimp and grits, or the eggs Benedict, Taru burger, Nutella French toast and prime rib roast. This is a place to sit and savor your meal and the surroundings. • Brunch Sat.-Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/272-5678. $$$ Taverna Opa—270 E. Atlantic Ave. Greek. Yes, you can order a side of belly dancing and napkin tossing with your moussaka and baklava at this chain. But the moussaka and baklava are very good; so is the rest of the food at the downtown Delray outpost. Also worth your while (and appetite) are appetizers like melitzanosalata, whipped eggplant with orange zest and roasted red pepper, and tarama, a creamy emulsion of bread, olive oil and salmon roe. Whole grilled bronzino is finished with lemon and orange juices for a citrusy flavor boost, while tongue-tying galaktoboureko goes baklava one better by adding vanilla-scented custard to golden, flaky phyllo. • Dinner nightly. 561/303-3602. $$

Terra Fiamma—9169 W. Atlantic Ave. Italian. The pleasures of simple, well-prepared Italian-American cuisine are front and center here. Enjoy the 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. $$ Tramonti —119 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. In a world where restaurants chase trends with the relentlessness of Casanova in full Viagra heat, Tramonti stands out as a classic outpost of authentic Italian cookery. Not trendy hardly means stodgy, however, as evidenced by expertly crafted, robustly flavorful dishes like the signature spiedini di mozzarella Romana, spaghetti al cartoccio and braciole Napoletana. Torta della nonna is a triumph of the highly refined simplicity that lies at the heart of true Italian cuisine. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/272-1944. $$$

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Buzz Bite III Small Business Spotlight

ion & Eagle English Pub has been a staple in the community for 30 years, with Rob Allen having owned the watering hole for the past 13 of them. Although it’s just blocks from the beach, once you step inside, your eyes take a moment to adjust to the dim lighting, and then you’re instantly transported to England. Dark wood furniture, cozy banquette nooks and numerous TVs line the walls. What are the dishes we should definitely try? Allen: The fish and chips are a hearty portion of fried haddock or cod on a bed of hand-peeled and -cut French fries— that we call chips—with a side of tartar sauce. We also serve breakfast all day, and the full English breakfast is what we’re renowned for. Aside from the food, what are you known for? Allen: We’re the football [aka soccer for you Americanos—Ed.] bar in this area. On weekends, we typically open at 7 a.m. You’re a pub, so tell us about the beer. Allen: We have the best Guinness in town. It’s the best seller. The staff knows just how to pour it. —Christie Galeano-DeMott

Veg Eats Foods —334 E. Linton Blvd. Creative Vegan. This is comfort food for everyone; the dishes will impress carnivores, too. Smell the fresh coconut vegetable curry soup, which tastes as good as it sounds. Try the grilled brawt sausage, the Ranch chixn, the banh mi and a Ruben—all from plantbased ingredients that will fool your taste buds. • Lunch daily. 561/562-6673. $

LAKE WORTH BEACH Couco Pazzo —915-917 Lake Ave. Italian. 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. $$ July/August 2021

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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 salt-crusted branzino is definitely a musttry. Plus, the wine list is a veritable tome. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/547-2500. $$$

LANTANA 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 reasonably priced. • Dinner nightly. 561/547-9487. $$$

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. $$$ Buccan—350 S. County Road. Contemporary American. Casual elegance of Palm Beach meets modern culinary sensibilities of Miami at the first independent restaurant by chef Clay Conley. The design offers both intimate and energetic dining areas, while the menu is by turn familiar (wood-grilled burgers) and more adventurous (truffled steak tartare with crispy egg yolk, squid ink orrechiette). • Dinner nightly. 561/833-3450. $$$ 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, the elegant lounge or the sophisticated dining room. • Dinner nightly. 561/655-6060. $$$

Dessert at HMF at The Breakers

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). 561/655-4020. $$$

Echo—230A Sunrise Ave. Asian. The cuisine reverberates with

Octo-cool

Ta-boo, the Palm Beach see-and-be-seen hot spot, marks 80 years on Worth Avenue this year.

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. $$$

Henry’s Palm Beach—229 Royal Poinciana Way. American Bistro. Part of The Breakers’ restaurant properties, this venue opened in 2020 and is an elegant addition to The Island. Try the pigs in a pretzel dough blanket, beer can corn, the lobster roll, butter crumb Dover sole and chicken pot pie. All comfort food with a Palm Beach twist, and it’s all delicious. • Lunch and dinner daily. 877/724-3188. $$$

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 bocamag.com

••••

depart without sampling the dreamy warm onion-Parmesan dip with house-made fingerling potato chips, the sexy wild boar empanaditas, chicken albondigas tacos and Korean-style short ribs. The wine list is encyclopedic. • Dinner nightly. 561/2900104. $$

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, like witty Peking duck tacos and decadent tuna and foie gras sliders. Sushi selection is limited but immaculately fresh. • Dinner nightly. 561/833-5522. $$ Leopard Lounge and Restaurant—The Chesterfield Palm Beach, 363 Cocoanut Row. American. The restaurant offers excellent food in a glamorous and intimate club-like atmosphere. In fact, it’s advisable to make early reservations if a quiet dinner is the objective; the place becomes a late-night cocktail spot after 9. The menu is equally decadent. • Breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner daily. 561/659-5800. $$ Meat Market—191 Bradley Place. Steakhouse. “Meat Market” may be an inelegant name for a very elegant and inventive steakhouse 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 nightly. 561/354-9800. $$$$

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. $$

WEST PALM BEACH Banko Cantina —114 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. Northern Mexican. Start with the Adelita cocktail and don’t look back. The bacon-wrapped shrimp, the Al Carbon steak tacos and the house guacamole add up to a full-flavor dinner. The west-facing rooftop bar is a nice sunset option, and the Pan de Elote (homemade sweet cornbread with vanilla ice cream and berries) is a delightful end to the evening. • Dinner daily. 561/355-1399. $$

WEB EXTRA: check out our complete tri-county dining guide only at BOCAMAG.COM.

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