BOCA Magazine November/December 2023 by JES Media

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WINTER FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

VOL. 43, ISSUE 8

Holiday Bites Four of our region’s most creative chefs set your holiday table with palate-stirring appetizers that are as beautiful as they are delicious. By CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

Are You Experienced? With more and more of us favoring experiences over physical products, our holiday gift guide takes off on several adventures. By JOHN THOMASON

Old Boca: Is There Anything Left? Boca Raton’s chief historian digs through the city’s archives to uncover the last vestiges of its small-town legacy—from way back when. By SUSAN GILLIS

Special Section: Florida Style & Design A Palm Beach designer transforms an Italian villa into a light-filled sanctuary in coastal blues and whites. Plus, discover the dazzling décor to make any room pop, from botanical accents to shimmering metals. Turn to page 62 for these and more chefdriven hors d’oeuvres

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By CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

VOL. 43, ISSUE 8

113

38 26 Editor’s Letter

From high-speed rail to the tech campus of the future, the changes in Boca are evident everywhere you look—except in the city’s longtime spirit of charity and sustainability, which is as consistent as ever. By MARIE SPEED

31 The Local

Meet an actor who channels her life’s traumas into her impassioned roles, and an artist whose use of whimsy and wordplay turns frowns upside down. Plus, toast the season with drinkable desserts, learn how locals like to celebrate the holidays, and dust off your Stetson for a glamping weekend at Westgate River Ranch. By TYLER CHILDRESS, MARIE SPEED and JOHN THOMASON

40 The Look

Glitters and sequins, platforms and clutches: Welcome the festive season and the return of lavish events with glamour in reds, blacks and golds.

113 Backstage Pass

We raise the curtain on another A&E season with an eclectic preview of 25 events spanning jazz, rock and classical music; plays and musicals; comedy, dance, opera and visual arts; and even Captain James T. Kirk himself. Plus, we“Take 5”with a Boca artist who sneaks environmental activism into his sculptures of marine life. By JOHN THOMASON

165 Florida Table: Eat & Drink

See what our food critic has to say about The Hampton Social and Taki Omakase. Plus, explore the chefs and parties on tap for December’s Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival, and see why mezcal is giving tequila a run for its pesos. By CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

194 Social Celebs “cooked off”for charity, Boca Helping Hands honored its founders, FAU benefactors helped support the university’s next class of medical students, and the Historical Society welcomed new trustees. By TYLER CHILDRESS

200 Hometown Hero Boca Ballet Theatre is just one jewel in the cultural crown of longtime supporters Dan Guin and Jane Tyree, whose dedication to the arts is always en pointe. By MARIE SPEED

Photography by AARON BRISTOL

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Made in Italy

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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.

Butternut squash bruschetta

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT

Want more of the mouthwatering, chef-driven appetizers featured on page 62? Check out three more recipes for restaurant-quality hors d’oeuvres at bocamag.com/november-december-2023.

PRESENT COMPANY

At bocamag.com/november-december-2023, continue your exploration of experiential gift ideas (page 72) with three more possibilities for the recipient who has everything … or just doesn’t want more things.

KUDOS TO US Bocamag.com was honored with the Charlie Award for best website at this year’s Florida Magazine Association awards! This is the organization’s top honor, given in recognition of the excellence of our site’s content, navigability and design. Visit bocamag. com and see why our site was voted the best!

Launched in early 2020, Boca Goes Live is still keeping you connected to the community through conversations streamed live on Facebook with a curated roster of some of South Florida’s leading officials, entertainers and innovators. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram so you don’t miss new reels and visit bocamag.com/live to see the full library of videos and watch them on demand.

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 Dining Guide tab to view the guide.

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.

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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John Thomason WEB EDITOR

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Aaron Bristol CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Christie Galeano-DeMott, Susan Gillis, Margie Kaye (promotional writing), Amanda Mesa VIDEO PRODUCTION/CUSTOMER SERVICE

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Boca Raton magazine is published eight times a year by JES Media. The contents of Boca Raton magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Boca Raton magazine accepts no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein.

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Boca Raton magazine reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material and is not responsible for products. Please refer to corporate masthead.

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FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION BOCA MAGAZINE WINNERS 2023 CHARLIE AWARDS CHARLIE AWARD (FIRST PLACE) best website (bocamag.com) best custom publication (1926)

best custom publication (Worth Avenue) best advertorial story or section

SILVER AWARD best overall magazine best editorial, opinion, commentary best department design

BRONZE AWARD best in-depth reporting best advertorial story or section

2022 CHARLIE AWARDS GENERAL EXCELLENCE magazine of the year best overall magazine CHARLIE AWARD (FIRST PLACE) best overall writing best in-depth reporting best custom publication (1926) best advertising for a client

SILVER AWARD best feature best use of photography best advertising for a client BRONZE AWARD best custom publication (Worth Avenue)

2021 CHARLIE AWARDS CHARLIE AWARD (FIRST PLACE) best public service coverage best in-depth reporting best feature best service feature best humor writing best column best photo essay/series best advertorial best overall: digital innovator best special theme or show issue

SILVER AWARD best overall writing best public service coverage best department best use of photography best social media best custom publication (Worth Avenue) BRONZE AWARD best traditional illustration

November/December 2023 • • • • bocamag.com

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DIRECTORY

Expect More

Subscription, copy purchasing and distribution

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

Advertising and event resources

Take advantage of Boca Raton magazine’s prime advertising space—put your ad dollars to work in the premier publication of South Florida. For more information, or to partner with Boca Raton on a community event, call 561/997-8683 ext. 300, or email nicole@bocamag.com.

Custom publishing

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

Story queries

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

Web queries

Submit information regarding our website and online calendar to tyler@bocamag.com.

Letters

Your thoughts and comments are important to us. All letters to the editor may be edited for style, grammar and length. Send letters to the address listed below or to Marie Speed (editor@bocamag.com). Letter to the Editor Boca Raton magazine 1000 Clint Moore Road, #103 Boca Raton, FL 33487

Arts & entertainment

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

Dining guide

Our independent reviews of restaurants in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. A reliable resource for residents and tourists. For more information, contact Christie Galeano-DeMott (christie@bocamag.com).

People BOCA CENTER ON MILITARY TRAIL 561-394-5551 | GROVEOPTICIANS.COM

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

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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SUBSCRIBERS

First issue

Boca Raton magazine is published eight times a year. If you have any questions or comments regarding our magazine, call us at 561/997-8683. We’d love to hear from you.

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If you have already paid your bill and then receive a new bill, here’s what you should do: 1. If you have paid your bill within the past four weeks, ignore the new invoice. (The computer simply has not given your account credit quickly enough.) 2. It’s most likely that your payment and our notice just crossed in the mail. Check the date on the notice to see when we mailed it. 3. If you get another bill or renewal notice, call our subscription department at 877/553-5363, or send an email to subscriptions@bocamag.com, and we will straighten out the problem.

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November/December 2023 • • • • bocamag.com

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FROM THE EDITOR

The More Things Change The good old days are still here—if you look Written by MARIE SPEED

Old Town Hall

usan Gillis knows everything. At least about Boca Raton. The curator of the Boca Raton Historical Society, Gillis knows about Boca before it was Boca—as she demonstrates in her then-and-now feature on page 80. This story got me thinking about what those days must have been like, and how much has changed in the city even since I moved here almost 33 years ago. Back then, Mizner Park was a groundbreaking example of“new urbanism”—a design buzz phrase back then for a mix of live-work-play land uses. There was one taller bank building, but it was mostly pretty sleepy, with a lot of mom-and-pop shops, Sanborn Square, the Pink Plaza and Palmetto Park Road. In fact, I remember driving around in my 1988 Jeep Sahara looking for downtown the day of my job interview here, but I could not seem to find it. Fast forward to 2023, and downtown Boca Raton bristles with tall condo and apartment towers—with more on the way. Brightline bullets through from Miami, and the old Boca resort has assumed lofty new aspirations, from its ivory façade with its minimalist logo to the prices on its menus and rooms. A new hospital is rising from the old one, the IBM building is now an“innovation campus,”and social events like the Go Pink luncheon and the Ballroom Battle are raising a million dollars before the ink is even dry on the invitations. This is not the Boca Raton that Gillis traces with her story, when the town was shifting from its rural-resort phase into what it has become now. Most people alive today don’t remember that early version of Boca, but many remember a later one they still describe as“sleepy”—a place where people knew each other, where a group of women started the Junior League, and another joined together to build a hospital. A place where the Babione funeral home family stationed their hearse at the Friday night high school football games because the town didn’t have an ambulance. I hear people from those days lamenting the loss of their tightly knit community just as they puzzle at the traffic now, the young families buying $10 million homes, the cost of a rib-eye at the newest steakhouse. The then-and-now appears to be a widening gulf as our own history recedes at a faster and faster pace. This much change can be hard to process; it’s happening all over Florida, especially South Florida. But a few things are worth mentioning, especially as we slip into the holiday giving season. Number one, we’re bigger and we’re fancier and we’re more expensive, but people are still opening their wallets; this season’s early events were sell-outs. It’s also worth noting that the modest philanthropic efforts of 40 or 50 years ago are being carried on now by another generation, who routinely give six- and seven-figure gifts to fundraisers. People are still brimming with new ideas. A group wants to build a brilliant arts center; CP Group wants to transform BRiC into a community that will upend the notion of sprawl. Green initiatives are baked into Boca’s progress, and the city is a leader in sustainable ideas. So yes, the“now” snapshot is better than it appears. It is a new Boca, but with many of the town’s old values: giving back, growing smart, advancing our quality of life. In our case, what’s new may be what’s old again. And that can be a good thing.

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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Artist’s Conceptual Rendering

D I S C OV E R T H E 2 20 C O L L E CT I O N , R ES I D E N C ES U N L I K E A N Y OT H E RS The 220 Collection elevates the quintessential Boca Raton lifestyle to the ultimate level of luxury in a limited number of one-of-a-kind residences and penthouses. Featuring expansive private terraces – all with summer kitchens and many with plunge pools – they provide an elegant setting for relaxing and dining in the fresh air with family and friends. A variety of panoramic views, including over the Boca Raton Resort & Club, downtown Boca Raton, and the Atlantic Ocean, are as inspiring from the terraces as they are from exquisitely designed and thoughtfully upgraded interiors wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows.

ALINA 2 20 Collection price upon request Delivery 2024 SCHEDULE A PRIVATE PRESENTATION 561.990.2979 | ALINABOCARATON.COM 200 SE MIZNER BLVD., BOCA RATON, FL 33432 ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THIS BROCHURE AND THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. THIS OFFERING IS MADE ONLY BY THE OFFERING DOCUMENTS FOR THE CONDOMINIUM AND NO STATEMENT SHOULD BE RELIED UPON IF NOT MADE IN THE OFFERING DOCUMENTS. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL, OR SOLICITATION OF OFFERS TO BUY, CONDOMINIUM UNITS IN STATES WHERE SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION CANNOT BE MADE. THIS CONDOMINIUM IS BEING DEVELOPED BY EL-AD MIZNER ON THE GREEN II LLC A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (“DEVELOPER”). ANY AND ALL STATEMENTS, DISCLOSURES AND/OR REPRESENTATIONS SHALL BE DEEMED MADE BY DEVELOPER AND NOT BY EL AD AND YOU AGREE TO LOOK SOLELY TO DEVELOPER (AND NOT TO EL AD AND/OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES) WITH RESPECT TO ANY AND ALL MATTERS RELATING TO THE MARKETING AND/OR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONDOMINIUM AND WITH RESPECT TO THE SALES OF UNITS IN THE CONDOMINIUM. THE INFORMATION PROVIDED, INCLUDING PRICING, IS SOLELY FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES, AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. IMAGES ARE ARTIST’S CONCEPTUAL RENDERING. THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS A SOLICITATION FOR THE SALE OF UNITS IN ALINA 220 BOCA RATON, A CONDOMINIUM: NJ REG. NO. 22-04-0003. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR ALINA 220 BOCA RATON ARE IN A CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM THE OFFEROR: FILE NO. CP22-0044.

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BOCA MAG 2023 NOV-DEC

9X10.875” + BLEEDS

9/28/23 7:05 PM

Imagine a bank that has your back. 24/7. Purpose drives all of us. Your purpose drives you to your goals. Our purpose drives us to you. Because, well, you are our purpose. At Amerant, we don’t see our customers as just people. We see you as people with unlimited potential and we’re committed to help you achieve all your financial goals. Let’s talk – about where you are in life, and just as importantly, where you want to go.

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Pete Boinis, longtime resident and former owner of Pete’s Restaurant in West Boca (remember the toy train chugging along the walls?) has long been known for his love of Christmas both in his restaurant and now, in his home. Boinis, now 86, sold Pete’s in 2006, but he’s made up for it by decorating his home every season (it takes about two weeks), a process that is getting more elaborate by the year. Here is a photo of one room; go to bocamag.com for more pictures.

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THE LOCAL B O C A C H AT T E R H OT L I S T ARTIST AC T O R T H E LO O K DRINK H O L I DAY E V E N T S WO R T H T H E T R I P

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THE LOCAL

BOCA CHATTER

Don’t-Miss Events MAYORS BALL, Nov. 11, 6:30 p.m., Boca West Country Club

The popular black-tie gala, which is one of the kickoff events to Boca’s season, is in its eighth year celebrating past and present mayors as well as local do-gooders. Prepare to dance to the Steve Chase Band and enjoy an epicurean farm-to-table menu from Boca West Country Club Executive Chef Paul Griffin and Michelin Star Chef Fabio Trabocchi. Mayors Ball tickets are $450 per person; visit rotarydowntownbocaraton.org.

COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING & HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA, Nov. 16, 5:50-7:30 p.m., Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC), 5000 T-Rex Ave., Boca Raton

ROOFCLAIM.COM BOCA RATON BOWL, Dec. 21, 8 p.m., FAU Stadium, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton

(The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN and ESPN Radio and locally on ESPN 106.3.) Boca’s homegrown bowl game is always a popular holiday event; for this year’s 10th edition of the RoofClaim.com Boca Raton Bowl, fans can reserve tickets for a special $10-off price—$47 for sideline seats and $22 for end zone seats—after the discount. To sign up for this offer, go to the Tickets dropdown on the front page of the RoofClaimBocaRatonBowl.com website and enter your information on the Ticket Pre-Sale tab.

PETER JONELEIT/ZUMA PRESS WIRE

This holiday celebration has it all, from the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree to the illuminated “Snowflake Lane,” a Santa meet-andgreet, interactive entertainment, choir and dance performances and more. The event will feature WPTV Channel 5’s Chief Meteorologist Steve Weagle as emcee and is free and open to the public. For event updates and to RSVP for general admission or purchase VIP tent tickets, visit CPGrouptreelighting2023.eventbrite.com. And if you can’t get enough of those tree lights, check out Delray’s 100-foot Christmas tree lighting Nov. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Old School Square.

Toledo Rockets Quarterback Dequan Finn competes in the 2022 Boca Raton Bowl.

Locals sound off on issues affecting our community.

What is your favorite way to celebrate the holidays? “My favorite way to spend the holiday is to have my daughter, sister-in-law and grandchildren over, and the family visiting from Venezuela, Germany, Boston and Baltimore. We cook a Venezuelan feast: hallacas (Venezuelan tamales), pernil (marinated and seasoned roast pork) and Christmas salad, and just enjoy the time together that has become so precious due to the distance.”

—Melissa Perlman, President and Founder, Blue Ivy Communications

“The holidays are about celebrating our Greek heritage with family and friends. Christmas dinner usually includes taramasalata (Greek fish roe dip), spanakopita (spinach pie), pastitsio (tiny pasta) and prime rib along with kourabiedes (Greek butter cookies) for dessert. This is just the beginning of the 12 days of Christmas, which ends on January 6 with Epiphany.”

—James Constantine, Chairman, AHEPA, Chapter 487; Legacy Council, Junior Achievement of South Florida

AARON BRISTOL

—Mary Sol Gonzalez, CEO, Hispanic Entrepreneur Initiative

“I love going to the Northeast (New York, Baltimore) to experience the cold weather and decorated city streets! I also love visiting new destinations; this year, I will be in Buenos Aires, Argentina to see and feel firsthand how others celebrate!”

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5 HOLIDAY TRADITIONS WE LOVE 1 The boat

swears by online shopping these days, but the holidays are a great time to visit Town Center to galvanize your holiday spirit. My picks: Lunch at Neiman’s Mariposa Cafe (with a glass or two of bubbly) followed by drop-ins to Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel and Williams Sonoma. Then buy yourself something you do not need at somewhere you cannot afford.

3. Visit the Palm

Beach Zoo when it lights up for the holidays— with more than one million eco-friendly lights. Each holiday season, the Zoo twinkles with themed displays from the entrance through the Florida Wetlands and Tropics of the Americas. Visit palmbeachzoo.org for more information.

4. Holiday

movies. You know which ones.“A Christmas Story” on an endless loop and“It’s a Wonderful Life”are just the beginning. Your permission to get sentimental movie after movie (Don’t miss“Love, Actually”) is hereby granted.

5. OK, the

food celebration has to be on this list, from a giant perfect roast turkey, complete with stuffing, at Thanksgiving to special treats like paté and caviar, a standing rib roast at Christmas, brisket and latkes for Hanukkah, stone crabs for New Year’s Eve. And eggnog. Yes, you heard us right— eggnog.

THE PALM BEACH POST VIA ZUMA WIRE

BRUCE R. BENNETT/THE PALM BEACH POST VIA ZUMA WIRE

parade. There is something quintessentially smalltown Florida about watching boats covered in lights sail down the Intracoastal from your lawn chair by the seawall.

2. Everyone

Boynton and Delray Beach Holiday Boat Parade

936 billion

Amount consumers spent last holiday season —National Retail Federation

Percentage of consumers who give non-monetary donations to charities at the holidays —popsupsmart.com

34.7

Percentage of holiday retail sales generated by jewelry stores —drip.com

S’mores Station at Zoo Lights at Palm Beach Zoo

MSD HITS MACY’S! The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Marching Band Eagle Regiment will perform in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® on Nov. 23, representing the state of Florida. This will mark the first Parade appearance by the band. The Eagle Regiment will join the Parade to the call of “Let’s Have a Parade,”the iconic phrase that has signaled the start of every Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade since 1924. The Eagle Regiment was selected from more than 100 applicants as one of 10 selected bands to march in the 97th edition of the annual holiday spectacle. “Like millions of Americans, I grew up watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as an annual family tradition,”said Steve Rivero, band director, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High.“I could NOT think of a greater honor for a marching band and am thrilled that the deserving students of the Eagle Regiment will have this experience. We cannot wait to show the world the wonderfully talented students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High!”

“Strange, isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?” —CLARENCE, “IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE”

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THE LOCAL

HOT LIST

THE FAB FOUR PERFORMS “RUBBER SOUL”

“WAIT UNTIL DARK” WHEN: Nov. 30-

Dec. 17

WHERE: Delray

Beach Playhouse, 950 N.W. Ninth St., Delray Beach COST: $45-$50 CONTACT:

561/272-1281, delraybeachplayhouse.com Suspense is often best experienced in the movies, where careful editing, cinematography and a tense score contribute to how we experience it. It’s more challenging to master on a stage, where the performances and direction—with assists from key lighting and sound choices—must do all the heavy lifting. Let’s see if Boca Stage will be up to the challenge when the company takes on one of the great thrillers of the late 20th century. In “Wait Until Dark,” a blind housewife in Greenwich Village becomes the target of three sinister con men who believe she is harboring a doll filled with expensive imported heroin. Its twists are likely to keep you glued to your seat. The show marks Boca Stage’s debut in its new home, the Delray Beach Playhouse.

WHEN: Dec. 1, 8 p.m. WHERE: The Parker, 707 N.E. Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale COST: $39.50-$89.50 CONTACT: 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

One of the benchmarks in the Beatles’ discography, 1965’s Rubber Soul was arguably the band’s first“grown-up”LP—an album that leaned into themes of sex, jealousy and drugs, both overtly and through veiled innuendo. Embracing an emergent folk-rock sound, it earned plaudits from Bob Dylan, who hailed the elegiac“Nowhere Man”as his favorite Beatles song, and the album’s integration of unorthodox instruments such as sitar, harmonium and fuzz bass paved the way for the revolutionary experimentation of“Sgt. Pepper’s”a couple years later. At this tour appearance, the Emmy-winning Fab Four, one of the most authentic Beatles tributes, will perform Rubber Soul in its entirety, offering album-perfect takes on“Drive My Car,”“Norwegian Wood”and“In My Life,”among many others. The band will also play a set of Beatles’ greatest hits, complete with costume changes to reflect the quartet’s varied eras.

The Fab Four

ANCIENT ALIENS LIVE

WHEN: Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m. WHERE: The Parker, 707 N.E. Eighth St., Fort

New World Symphony

NEW WORLD SYMPHONY

WHEN : Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West

Palm Beach COST: TBA CONTACT: 561/832-7469, kravis.org Throwing obvious shade at one Ludwig van Beethoven, Austrian composer Alan Berg once said that there was just one“Sixth Symphony”: Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 6, which premiered in Vienna in 1906. An orchestral masterpiece praised for both its lyrical beauty and percussive thunder—including the famous “Mahler hammer,”sometimes replicated with a sledgehammer striking a wooden box—the work has become known as Mahler’s“Tragic”symphony. Culturally relevant again, the composer has been in vogue ever since the Bernstein-Mahler Cycle, of which No. 6 is a part, played such a key role in last year’s Oscar-nominated movie“Tár.” In this guest appearance, Miami’s New World Symphony will drive up to perform the 80-minute work as part of its 2023-2024 programming, the first full season for new Artistic Director Stéphane Denève, who succeeded the legendary Michael Tilson Thomas in 2022.

Lauderdale COST: $39.50-$59.50 CONTACT: 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org Before it was a cultural phenomenon,“Ancient Aliens” was a mere one-hour TV special: a speculative documentary that explored the idea that mankind was seeded by ancient astronauts. Buoyed by popular demand, this kernel sprouted into the History Channel’s definitive cult series, now in its 19th season, with episode topics expanding far beyond its original remit. In the catch-all world of “Ancient Aliens,” the multiverse, quantum theory, lost civilizations, cryptozoology, ESP and time travel are as likely to share screen time as the latest revelations from the Defense Department’s handling of UFOs. This 90-minute tour will cover similar wide-ranging ground. It features contributions from the show’s producer, Giorgio A. Tsoukalos; Nick Pope, who ran the U.K.’s UFO program for its Ministry of Defense; aerospace engineer Dr. Travis Taylor; and adventure explorer David Childress.

Ancient Aliens Live

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THE LOCAL

ARTIST

All Smiles

Blending the fantastical and the mundane, Caitlin Frown sculpts whimsical scenes inspired by memories, dreams and everyday encounters If I can make people laugh from the sidelines, that’s something I enjoy. Especially in serious times and serious situations, the ability to laugh is important.” —Caitlin Frown

“Bananagram” by Caitlin Frown

Written by JOHN THOMASON

he irony of Caitlin Frown’s surname should not be lost. In the often serious, self-important world of contemporary fine art, Frown creates clay and papier-mâché sculptures that are rich in whimsy and levity. It’s work that smiles back at you. Case in point: At Arts Warehouse’s group exhibition “Pink”in Delray Beach earlier this year, Frown proved to be its foremost jester, finding subversive humor in scenes from everyday life.“The Ladies Room”is a roomsize installation shrunken into a miniature mockup. The pink-walled restroom offers a parody of society’s idea of femininity, but it’s also a deceptively scuzzy place: Look closely at this voyeuristic model, and ants and spiders scurry about. In“Opossums Love to Gossip,”the sculpted title animal, a beastly yenta of sorts, dons an old-lady nightgown, chatting on the phone in her old-lady abode, with old-lady trinkets gathering dust on shelves.“Everyone has encountered someone maybe like that—gossipy, looking out the window at their neighbors,”says Frown, 29, who lives in West Palm Beach.“So it’s a trope we can all relate to, combined with a cute, fun aspect.” The artist is fond of wordplay; sometimes, the title of a piece will come to her before its creation. Staged on local beachfront,“Mermanager” depicts a fabled merman sporting the anonymous garb of a regional manager, his coffee mug and office accouterments spread out on the sand. At the time of this interview, Frown was developing a scene of gators at a bowling institution. Its title, of course, is“Alligator Alley.” “I’ve had a staunch policy since college to write everything down,”she says.“Whether it’s good, bad or anything in between, I just write it down, and maybe revisit it later. I have notebooks from several years.” Frown has cited the Czech stop-motion filmmaker Jan Švankmajer as an influence on her art. David Lynch’s early shorts come to mind too, along with Roz Chast’s New Yorker cartoons, with their wry reflections on urban mundanity—all of which fall outside typical gallery paradigms.“I often feel out of place in more traditional fine art spaces,”Frown says. “I feel I’m on the outside looking in.” A native Minnesotan, Frown grew up largely in Naples, leaving Florida only to attend the Art Institute of Boston, where she graduated with a major in Illustra-

tion and a minor in Fine Arts. Considering both the humor and the sense of childlike nostalgia that permeates much of her work, it’s no surprise that Frown flirted with becoming a children’s-book author. It’s hard not to grin when spending some time in her home studio, a compendium of completed and in-progress works and fastidiously organized supplies, many purchased from the nonprofit Resource Depot, where she keeps a day job. These include a tower of compartments, each labeled with their contents:“doll arms,”“animal eyes and lashes,”miniaturized books, lamps and rugs.“There’s something very soothing about collecting tiny things,”she says. They may see the light of day in one of Frown’s forthcoming pieces, a shrunken apartment complex— refashioned from an advent calendar from Aldi—with all of its windows open, and a giant, voyeuristic doll peeking inside. (One of her two opinionated cats, which she refers to as her“assistants,”knocked down the“apartment”during our interview; from Frown’s reaction, it wasn’t the first time.) This, too, is inspired by memories from her life.“When I lived in Massachusetts, I would take walks a lot at night, and so many people would leave their blinds and curtains open,”she says.“To get that momentary glimpse of someone else’s life, and then feel what they feel for just a moment is so fascinating. I wanted to represent that in a way.” Frown has been selected for 15 exhibitions since 2013, including one solo show,“It’s So Nice to See You,”at Resource Depot in 2022. She was most recently shown this past fall at the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Wherever she appears next, expect her arresting sense of humor to be front and center. In a previous life, she even toyed with being a standup comedian.“I’ve been very shy, so I don’t think it would have worked,”she says.“If I can make people laugh from the sidelines, that’s something I enjoy. Especially in serious times and serious situations, the ability to laugh is important.”

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Welcome to Care the Pros Trust.

Don’t let an injury keep you from what you love. Our orthopedic team is here to offer everyone — from pro athletes to non-athletes — all over South Florida expert orthopedic and sports medicine care. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/Ortho or call 833-556-6764. Providing Sports Medicine Services for:

THE LOCAL

ACTOR

Dramatic Healing A’Keyah Williams mends the trauma of her past through the voices of her characters Written by TYLER CHILDRESS

t only took one monologue for A’Keyah Williams to fall in love with acting. She was in fifth grade at her very first theatre audition, at Bak Middle School for the Arts in West Palm Beach, playing a character who was getting the news that her grandmother had passed away. Williams’ own acquaintance with loss following her grandfather’s death grounded her in the role, and she felt a connection to the character that revealed a deeper regenerative magic that would empower her through the traumas of the years to come. Williams recounts her family history almost diagnostically, climbing a chain of cause and effect through time, looking for anything that might explain the strangeness of her own life.“If I go back far enough,” says Williams,“will I find the incident that caused all this stuff to happen and then be able to understand how to undo it from here?”

psychiatric hold. “People were touching me, asking me if I’m on drugs, being invasive,”recalls Williams.“[It led to] me feeling even more unprotected and feeling like my voice has no power.” When she was discharged, Williams began to retreat into herself, escaping through books by James Baldwin, Cicely Tyson and Viola Davis, discovering how each had overcome their own traumas. One day she was scrolling through social media when she happened upon a post promoting the National Society of Arts and Letters’ (NSAL) drama competition. Williams hadn’t been onstage in more than four years but felt she may have found the perfect outlet to reclaim her power and voice.“The stage, or arts in general, just gives you that freedom, that liberty to say, ‘hey, it’s not all great, but it will be,’” says Williams. She entered the competition with low expectations,

A’Keyah Williams

As a child, Williams says she could have set a world record for the number of teeth in her mouth (37 as opposed to the normal 32). She recounts being struck by a machine in an arcade that left her forehead permanently scarred, and the abuse inflicted by a family member. Williams was still trying to make sense of her looming past when she was confronted with another trauma that would change everything. After returning home to Boynton Beach from Los Angeles following her 2018 film debut in “Me Little Me,”Williams began teaching at Atlantic Community High School where, in January 2023, a troubled student threatened to shoot her and his fellow classmates. “I was frozen,” says Williams, confused as to what prompted the threat and wondering, after the incident, what would be done to keep everyone safe. Days of uncertainty followed, with the school making vague promises about the situation being handled. Then, Williams took to social media, expressing her frustrations, saying she felt that she didn’t want to live anymore. The post quickly circulated among students and faculty, and it wasn’t long before the police showed up to her door, cuffed her on the floor of her bedroom and took her to Delray Medical Center, where she was put under a 24-hour

and performed monologues that “all spoke about something that I didn’t have the words for yet.”As the tragic heroine Electra from the eponymous Sophocles play, she confronted her childhood abuser. As Norca from “Our Lady of 121st Street,”Williams wrestled with her feelings of abandonment. And as Rose from “Fences,”she navigated the battlefield of love with streaming tears. The judges were blown away, and so was Williams: “It was the most amazing experience I’ve ever felt in my life.”Williams won the state competition and moved to the national stage, where she won fourth place overall and first place among the women. Williams has been more selective about the characters she plays since returning home, taking roles only where she“actually feels called.” Despite the anxiety surrounding classrooms, she returned to teaching this year and took over the Theatre Academy at Boynton Beach Community High School. In March, she will be co-chairing—alongside her mentor, Shari Upbin—NSAL’s musical-theatre competition. Beyond future stage ambitions, Williams hopes to write a book about her life that she hopes will inspire other survivors of trauma. Its message? “It’s never the end when you think it’s the end; it’s probably just a new beginning.”

AARON BRISTOL

The stage, or arts in general, just gives you that freedom, that liberty to say, ‘hey, it’s not all great, but it will be.”

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THE LOCAL

LOOK

MARY FRANCES beaded bag, $190, GABRIEL OFIESH pearl necklace, $4,600, both from Unique Boutique ELLIOTT LAUREN sequin top, $148, from Barbara Katz PEDRO GARCIA sandal, $575, from Deborah James

Break Out the Champagne

AARON BRISTOL

Wrap yourself in the gold standard this season

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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If you haven’t stopped into Florida's Jewelry District with hundreds of vendors, designing, selling, repairing, trading and buying fine jewelry for over 40 years right on Glades Road…

What are you waiting for?

AVENTURA | 19275 Biscayne Boulevard (One block south of Aventura Mall) BOCA RATON | Glades Road, one block west of the Turnpike BOYNTON BEACH | Corner of Boynton and Military Trail Open Tuesday - Saturday 11am-5:30pm | www.intljewelers.com Not an authorized agent, representative or allifiate of any watch or trademarked jewelry appearing in this advertisement. All watch names, dials & designs appearing in this advertisement are registered trademarks in the U.S.A.

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THE LOCAL

LOOK

VALENTINO GARAVANI handbag, $4,550, SAINT LAURENT rhinestone/mesh bag, $3,550, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN clutch, $5,990, all from Saks, Boca Raton

Clutch Time AARON BRISTOL

Take a shine to these glittery cocktail bags

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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See it! Love it! Wear it! Be mesmerized by the exquisite collections of world-renowned designers, one-of-a kind gowns, special occasion dresses and more… for all of life’s magical memories. Located in Town Center Mall, Boca Raton, next to Saks Fifth Avenue | Please visit us at jennasstudio.com

561-888-3378

THE LOCAL

Pearl necklace, $248, ring, $125, both from Barbara Katz AQUAZZURA platform sandal, $1,895, from Saks, Boca Raton

Putting on the Glitz Time to get dressed— it’s sparkle season again

AARON BRISTOL

LAURA B bag, $2,090, RICK OWENS sequin bustier dress, $1,885, both from Deborah James

LOOK

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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THE LOCAL

LOOK

Suiting Up Eveningwear for men takes a bow

AARON BRISTOL

ETON fancy formal shirt, $285, BOCARA cuff links, $100, SHAWN CHRISTOPHER velvet bow ties, $170 each, MARK CHRIS shoes, $575, MILI ARATA fish leather wallet, $295, BRACKISH lapel pin, $75, all from Raise the Bar Menswear

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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Medical

SPOTL GHT Rafael C. Cabrera, MD, FACS Plastic Surgeon

Plastic Surgery Specialists of Boca Raton 951 N.W. 13th St., Suite 4-A Boca Raton, FL 33486

561-393-6400 Pssbocaraton.com

Dr. Rafael Cabrera, double board-certified in plastic surgery, has dedicated more than two decades to the art and science of aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, neck and eyes. Not only an aesthetic surgeon, he is a recognized expert in melanoma and skin cancer reconstruction. His surgical expertise has earned him widespread recognition and accolades from prestigious medical institutions and consumer councils alike. A renowned figure in his field, Dr. Cabrera prioritizes artistry and compassion in every procedure. His consultations, often extending beyond an hour, take a holistic approach to understanding a patient’s specific goals more completely. “My job is to validate their concerns and offer them solutions to achieve their best outcomes,” he asserts. Every patient is unique, and Dr. Cabrera approaches each case with precision and care. Facial rejuvenation procedures, both surgical and non-invasive, rank among the most frequently sought-after services in his practice. He provides the full spectrum of treatments, from superficial fillers and toxins through deep-plane and more complex facelifts. “It’s about enhancing natural beauty and aligning patients’ external appearance with their inner vitality.” Understanding the profound impact of his work, Dr. Cabrera underscores the importance of informed decisions. His goal is to subtly reverse the signs of aging, not to alter one’s natural features. These transformations are not just skin-deep but truly life-changing. SPONSORED CONTENT

THE LOCAL

LOOK

High Steppers

Party shoes this season are bursting with ruffles and bows

AARON BRISTOL

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN stiletto, $1,795, ANDREA WAZEN sandal, $695, MACH & MACH platform sandal, $1,010, all from Saks, Boca Raton

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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Opening Soon!

Women’s Contemporary and Classic Couture. Experience a luxury brand, without the luxury price.

THE RESERVE SHOPPING CENTER 9858 CLINT MOORE RD. C-124 BOCA RATON FLORIDA 33496

THE LOCAL

LOOK

Scarlet, My Dear It’s time to paint the town red this year

AARON BRISTOL

CHIE MIHARA Mary Jane pumps, $450, from Filly & Colt ARCADIA handbag, $425, JUDITH NUEGEBAUER bracelet, $890, earrings, $470, and necklace, $450, JULIE VOS bangle, $345, all from Unique Boutique

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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THE LOCAL

DRINK

Holiday Cheer(s)

You’ll be on everyone’s nice list with these specially crafted holiday cocktails Written by TYLER CHILDRESS

CHOCORANGE MARTINI 2 ounces whipped cream vodka 1 ounce Grand Marnier 1 ounce white creme de cacao Dash of half-and-half Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice, pour in all ingredients, shake until chilled, then strain into martini glass. Garnish with rim of chocolate shavings and orange peel.

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COLD CHOCOLATE MARTINI 2 ounces vanilla vodka 1 ounce Bailey’s Irish Cream 1 ounce dark creme de cacao Fill cocktail shaker halfway with ice, pour in all ingredients and shake until chilled, then strain into martini glass. Garnish with marshmallows.

YULETIDE LEMONADE 1 1/2 ounces vodka 1/2 ounce elderflower liqueur 2 ounces lemonade Fill cocktail shaker halfway with ice, pour in all ingredients and shake until chilled, then strain into martini or highball glass. Garnish with basil and cranberries.

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THE LOCAL

H O L I DAY E V E N T G U I D E

Boca for the Holidays Five ways to enjoy the most festive time of the year Written by TYLER CHILDRESS

hile no South Florida city could ever be mistaken for a “winter” wonderland, that doesn’t stop Boca Raton from pulling out all the stops to celebrate the holiday season. And after our long, air-conditioned hibernation through the record-setting heat of our summer months, there’s no better reason to dust up our windbreakers with fake snow and enjoy all that our city has to offer. From holiday tree lightings and parades to football and that perfect Santa selfie, here are our top picks for this year’s can’t-miss holiday events.

CP Group’s Eighth-annual Community Tree Lighting and Holiday Extravaganza

Thursday, Nov.16, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) on Yamato Road at 5000 T-Rex Avenue Boca Raton kicks off the most wonderful time of the year with the lighting of a 40-foot Christmas tree at Boca Raton Innovation Campus. Sponsored by locally headquartered commercial real estate firm CP Group, this year’s Community Tree Lighting and Holiday Extravaganza will be emceed by WPTV Meteorologist Steve Weagle and is chock full of activities and entertainment—but it wouldn’t be the holidays without a big beneficiary, and that’s why all proceeds from VIP ticket sales ($50 per adult, $15 per child) will directly benefit the Junior League of Boca Raton. Attendees can look forward to meet-andgreets with Santa, an animal petting zoo, food, live music and, of course, a festive countdown to the lighting of the tree. Parking is free and so is admission if you arrive with an unwrapped new toy or monetary donation to Spirit of Giving to support the nonprofit’s Annual Holiday Gift Drive.

Boca Holiday Festival

SIRIUS STUDIOS

Dec. 9-10, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday at Mizner Park Amphitheater The Mizner Park Amphitheater will be decked out for a weekend of holiday cheer at this year’s Boca Holiday Festival. Taking place De-

cember 9-10, this festive weekend has enough offerings to grow the Grinch’s heart three sizes, from ice-skating on a synthetic rink and holiday rides to capturing photos with Santa. Local vendors will also be in attendance, serving up an enticing array of dishes, cocktails and desserts. Live entertainment will be provided by Disney’s Frozen Variety Show, the Holiday Magic Show, Elves Science Show, carolers and much more. And for those of us who like to put off our Christmas shopping to the last minute, the Festival’s Shopping Village will have an assortment of unique gifts that may help you cross those last few names off your list.

ESPN Roofclaim.com Boca Raton Bowl

Thursday, Dec. 21, 8 p.m. at FAU Stadium Boca’s biggest annual sporting event may be a mouthful, but the holidays just wouldn’t be the same without it. The ESPN Roofclaim.com Boca Raton Bowl returns for its 10th year on Dec. 21 to the Florida Atlantic University Stadium, and after last year’s nail-biting matchup between Liberty and Toledo (with Toledo clinching the win 21-19), we can’t wait to see what this year’s game has in store. As of this writing, the two teams have not been decided, but that’s not slowing our tailgate planning for what will surely shape up to be one of the city’s biggest outdoor parties. Expect plenty of fanfare in the days lead-

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ing up to the big game, and make sure to arrive early on game day to not miss the pep rally!

Boca Raton’s “Very Merry Holidays”

Saturday, Nov. 18, 5-9 p.m. at Mizner Park Amphitheater Mizner Park will be converted into a garden of wintry delights on Nov. 18 for the beginning of Boca Raton’s“Very Merry Holidays”event series. Attendees can enjoy live music, a holiday vendor marketplace, and Santa Claus photo sessions, followed by the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony, featuring the illumination of Mizner Park’s 30-foot “Merry Magenta”tree. Both Mizner Park and Downtown Boca will be radiating plenty of holiday cheer, with more than 50,000 LED lights adorning the park’s palm trees and downtown’s festive flamingo and sea-themed holiday lights switched on in full display. Mizner Park’s restaurants will also be open with special seating options offering a front-row seat to the festivities. The event will kick off a series of

holiday festivities including the Holiday Parade,“Deck the House” contest,“Season of Lights Music Series”and“Merry in Mizner: Meet the Grinch”event.

Boca Raton Holiday Street Parade

Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, 7:30-9 p.m., along Federal Highway Boca’s Holiday Street Parade is celebrating its 51st anniversary on Dec. 6 with a dazzling array of dance, lights and more than 70 floats. This year’s theme is “Holidays on the Silver Screen,” so be sure to plan your outfit with that in mind. Keep in mind that traffic along Federal Highway will be temporarily closed, so plan accordingly. Fortunately, there’s free and plentiful parking available at various city lots, including City Hall and the Downtown Library. Be sure to get there early to participate in the family-friendly Boca Mile Run with the Boca Raton Police Athletic League. Pro tip: Opt for the grandstand view of the parade from Sanborn Square.

Left page, scenes from the community tree lighting at BRiC; this page, the Boca Raton Bowl, the Holiday Street Parade and “Very Merry Holidays” events at Mizner Park Amphitheater

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Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

Glamping at Westgate River Ranch grants a quiet reprieve from city life without sacrificing any of the luxury Written by TYLER CHILDRESS

Clockwise from bottom: Seared Chilean salmon from River Ranch Cattle Company; s’mores around the campfire; Smokey Old Fashioned from River Ranch Cattle Company bar; horseback riders

nyone who’s spent enough time in a city has had the “log cabin” fantasy. That yearning to be off the grid, somewhere that the congestion, lights and noise of city life fade into distant memory. For some, packing up an RV or pitching a tent under the stars scratches that itch. But for those of us who have grown a bit too accustomed to our creature comforts, sleeping on the ground without air conditioning doesn’t sound that relaxing. Fortunately, when glamping at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, no such concessions need be made. In Polk County just an hour outside Orlando, Westgate River Ranch & Rodeo has become the go-to for glamping, with USA Today going so far as to name it the No. 1 glamping destination in the country. For those new to the concept, glamping is a portmanteau of “glamorous”and“camping,”two ideas that seem at odds but are realized in perfect harmony at Westgate. During our visit, we stayed in one of the resort’s Luxe Conestoga Wagon rooms, which are fashioned

after the covered wagons of yore but are a far cry from the Oregon Trail—each is air-conditioned and furnished with a king bed, sofa, dressers and a full bathroom with walk-in shower. Each wagon also includes its own golf cart for riding around the grounds and into the “town”of boutiques, as well as a friendly room concierge who is available by text 24 hours a day for any needs that may arise. Aside from the wagons, there are also luxury tent and teepee accommodations that offer the same services. Stepping out to the back patio of the wagon, we were greeted each morning by bison loping along a plain beyond a narrow, shimmering branch of the Kissimmee River before starting our day with a hearty breakfast that was delivered and kept preserved in an insulated barrel right outside our door. From there we made our way to just a few of the many activities available at the ranch, beginning the first day with a horseback tour of a sliver of the 1,700 acres the ranch occupies. The tour leaders provided a brief but informative lesson on the ins and outs of horseback riding before

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leading us along dirt roads, trails and fields. The horses ambled at a slow and smooth pace, allowing us to fully absorb the pristine landscape and the animals that live upon it—from painted ponies, goats and llamas trotting in their corrals to longhorns shading under the Spanish moss-draped oaks. The ranch itself sits surrounded by 400,000 acres of federally protected lands, and we were able to ride out just far enough to get an idea of the vast wilderness in which we found ourselves. Throughout our weekend stay, we were able to explore even further with activities such as a breezy airboat ride through the murky waters of the Kissimmee River and a bumpy yet exhilarating swamp buggy excursion through the wetlands, which provided plenty of “yee-haw” moments as we bounced along. Other activities include a catch-andrelease fishing pond, trap and skeet shooting, air rifle and archery ranges, and far more than can fit in one trip (or article). For nightlife, look no further than the River Ranch Saloon, a family-friendly throwback to Wild West watering holes with a full bar and regular live music. At first glance, the dining might seem limited at Westgate, with only the resort’s steakhouse and a grab-and-go general store/deli to choose from, but this is quickly forgiven after a meal at the River Ranch Cattle Company chophouse. Every dish exceeded the expectations of resort dining, from the tender slab of tomahawk steak and the juicy lemon and herb-marinated half chicken to the creamy skillet mac and cheese that could raise the eyebrow of any Southern gourmand. I do wish there had been more variation in the goods available at the general store to make use of our wagon’s private patio grill, but we definitely weren’t left wanting for delicious meals during our stay. For those planning a trip to Westgate, be sure to choose a weekend so you don’t miss the rodeo. Held every Saturday in the resort’s own arena, the Westgate rodeo is about as rootin’ and tootin’ as it gets. With cowboys being thrown off bulls and bucking broncos, and trick riders performing acrobatic feats on horseback, the rodeo was a true country-style spectacle that you can’t miss. For more information, visit westgateresorts.com/ hotels/florida/river-ranch/westgate-river-ranch-resort.

Clockwise from top: luxe teepee interior, Conestoga wagon exterior, River Ranch Saloon, cabin exterior, River Ranch Rodeo

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Tips

Pre-make the crabmeat mixture and refrigerate overnight. Stuff the peppers up to three hours before the party starts. Put sprouts on the bottom of a plate to keep the peppers from rolling around.

Piquillo peppers with crab salad

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holiday Bites Elevate your holiday entertaining with a few appetizer recipes from the pros Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

his festive season, let’s bring back the nostalgic cocktail party of a bygone era. Four local chefs are sharing their favorite appetizers (and a few tips and tricks) to make your holiday hosting elegant and effortless this year. Cheers to the holidays with these easy and delightful canapés designed to reduce your holiday stress and elevate your merriment.

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Lisabet's Holiday Tips Adopt the culinary phrase “mise en place,” where you prep as much as you can in advance and place ingredients into individual containers with lids. Cut lemons and limes for the bar ahead of time. Have your French press ready with ground coffee, have your kettle prepped with water, and set out your mugs, sugar and cream before guests arrive. If you’re having a dinner party, set the table a day in advance.

Lisabet Summa As a founding member of Big Time Restaurant Group and the executive culinary director for its 18 restaurants, including her namesake Elisabetta’s, Lisabet Summa has decades of experience in the kitchen. She hungers for the opportunity to create new menu items and collaborate with her staff. And when she’s hosting at home, Summa looks to keep recipes easy. To do that, she builds her dishes around time-saving gourmet condiments like her favorite mango chutney and cilantro paste. “For cocktails, you want to have a selection of items that are interesting together and varied,” she says.“Appetizers should open up the appetite,

not kill it.” Summa suggests having something that’s salty and crunchy, something vegetarian, and something seafood-focused. Avoid anything too heavy or big; items should be light and small, to eliminate cutlery and dishware. elisabettas. com

PIQUILLO PEPPERS WITH CRAB SALAD

Instead of using crabmeat for a crab cake, Summa keeps it easy by creating a simple crab salad with Hellman’s mayo and then stuffing it into the hollow piquillo peppers she picked up at the Whole Foods olive bar. They make for a perfect single tangy bite that pairs nicely with martinis.

8 ounces lump crabmeat 2 teaspoons capers 1 teaspoon dill 3 tablespoons Hellman’s Mayonnaise 1/8 teaspoon black pepper lemon zest chives to garnish Container of piquillo peppers Tiny sprouts Combine crabmeat, capers, dill, mayonnaise and black pepper in mixing bowl, and mix by hand with spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning. If needed, trim top of peppers to make it easier to fill them. With demitasse spoon, fill peppers with crab salad. Garnish with touch of lemon zest made with microplane grater, and chives, flower petals or tiny herb sprouts.

TRAMEZZINI

These Italian finger sandwiches are an easy go-to, since most of the prep can be done days in advance.

Jarred roasted red peppers 3 extra egg yolks 5 eggs 1 teaspoon salt for each egg mixture 1 teaspoon pepper for each egg mixture 1 tablespoon mayonnaise for each egg mixture 3 teaspoons Swad Cilantro Paste 2 teaspoons yellow mustard 1 teaspoon turmeric 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Boil lightly salted water in saucepan. Add eggs by lowering into water carefully. Gently boil for 9-10 minutes. Remove to bowl of icewater to chill. Under running water, carefully peel eggs and place to dry on dinner plate lined with paper towels. In a bowl, separate yolks. Place whites in a separate bowl, and chop with egg slicer or large grater. To whites, add mayonnaise, cilantro paste, salt, pepper and parsley. To bowl with yolks, add mustard, salt, pepper, mayonnaise and turmeric, and mash with fork until smooth and creamy. Drain red peppers on paper towels. Cut piece of bread in half, and use half a piece as a template. Cut red peppers to the shape of the bread. The day of event, one hour before, layer one slice of bread with egg white mixture and another slice of bread with egg yellow mixture. Put red pepper in the middle. Repeat until you have four sandwiches. Trim off the crusts using sharp serrated knife. Cut sandwich in half on the diagonal and in half again until you have four triangular-shaped small sandwiches. Chill in refrigerator.

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Tips

Soften the goat cheese for two hours out of the refrigerator. The best chutney is Brooklyn Delhi Spicy Mango Chutney. If you can’t find it, replace it with a fruit jam. Refrigerate the balls for up to an hour covered with plastic wrap before the party, or leave at room temperature for up to one hour before serving.

Goat cheese and Marcona almond bites; bottom, tramezzini

GOAT CHEESE AND MARCONA ALMOND BITES

Summa creates these balls instead of putting out a simple bowl of nuts. She serves this appetizer with a mango chutney that is one of her favorite secret ingredients. These flavorful bites pair well with red wine. 5 ounces goat cheese 1 ½ tablespoons mango chutney Crushed Marcona almonds In food processor, crush almonds until broken but not powdery. Tip them onto dinner plate. In bowl, mix goat cheese with mango chutney. Use small demitasse spoon to portion goat cheese mixture onto plate and roll into balls. Roll each goat cheese ball in the nuts; place on small tray or plate.

Tips

Use Pepperidge Farm thin-sliced white bread. The cilantro paste can be purchased at an Indian specialty market or on Amazon. Both the egg white and the egg yellow mixtures can be made up to two days in advance.

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Bisiotis’s Holiday Tips Start by getting organized: Know exactly how many people are attending, then add four more. Before going to the supermarket, create your menu. Then, make your grocery list and make sure to write every detail down so you only have to go once. Buy seasonal food. This ensures you have the freshest ingredients at the best price. For example, swap corn out for broccoli rabe or Brussels sprouts.

sive collection of bites to wow your guests. The creaminess of the burrata and sweetness of the persimmon drizzled with a honey-amaretto mixture create a well-balanced dish that’s enjoyable any time of the day. 2 slices sourdough bread (1-2 inches thick) 1 garlic clove 8 ounces burrata 1 Fuyu persimmon For garnish, 1 fried sage leaf

Christos Bisiotis Born in Athens to American and Greek military parents, Christos Bisiotis grew up celebrating two cultures. Following tradition, his family fêted Christmas Day with a turkey his Greek grandmother would stuff with ground beef, chestnuts and raisins, while his American grandparents regaled him with stories about the States. The love for cooking runs in the family; he began working at his family’s bakery and neighborhood restaurants at a young age. Bisiotis knows precisely when he cemented his life’s path to becoming a chef. During a routine bread delivery, he stepped into a restaurant’s kitchen, and when he heard the screaming and saw the chaos, he

said to himself,“that’s my home.” After culinary school in Greece, he moved to New York City and cut his teeth at Eataly, Avra Madison and Estiatorio Milos before moving to Miami to open Carbone. Last year, he launched The CB Concepts. His hospitality company focuses on three cuisines (Greek, Italian and Israeli) and offers restaurant consulting, weekly meal delivery, cooking classes, private chef services and catering. christosbisiotis.com. @thecbconcepts

BRUSCHETTA WITH BURRATA AND FUYU PERSIMMON

This appetizer requires no chef skills and delivers an impres-

For bread, either grill or toast on pan with olive oil until both sides are crispy (less than 1

Tips

minute on grill). Cut garlic clove in half when bread is ready, and smother bread on both sides to get garlic-y flavor. Cut Fuyu persimmon into eight pieces (1-inch thick) and sear on pan (or grill) with olive oil. Place on top of bread when nicely charred, and cut burrata into four pieces. For the perfect drizzle, combine two parts honey and one part amaretto liqueur to finish off dish.

LOBSTER CAPRESE

“Italian cuisine is about the simplicity of the ingredients,” he says. So what’s more Italian

Bruschetta with burrata and Fuyu persimmon

Make sure the burrata is at room temperature before serving. If you cannot find Fuyu persimmon, use a beautiful peach. Pre-make the drizzle and let it sit overnight for best results.

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than this bite inspired by the country’s flag: a rich red from the lobster and tomatoes, a bright white mozzarella and fresh, green basil oil. 10 ounces lobster tail 4 ounces heirloom cherry tomatoes 8 cloves peeled garlic 6 mini mozzarella balls in brine 8 ounces basil leaves 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Blended oil (1 cup) 4 tablespoons kosher salt Pinch sea salt 1 teaspoon lemon zest Bring oven to 350 degrees and add garlic with half a cup blended oil in small pan. Cover using aluminum foil; leave for an hour. When ready, remove from oven, and let rest for at least 30 minutes. This is garlic confit. In medium pot, bring water to boil and

blanch basil leaves (no stems). Leave in for no more than 10 seconds. Remove and place into ice bath. When completely chilled, remove from water, and squeeze very well to get water out. Then, place into blender with half cup blended oil, and half cup of olive oil. Run for one minute, then pass through cheesecloth. This is basil oil. In a medium pot, bring water to boil and add salt. Put in lobster

tail and cook for seven minutes. Then, remove and place into ice bath. When thoroughly chilled, remove shell, cutting lengthwise with scissors. Slice lobster tail in five chunky slices. Add sliced heirloom cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, lobster, and garlic confit in mixing bowl. Add sea salt, some extra-virgin olive oil and lemon zest, and mix with spoon.

Tips

Plate to your liking. I recommend in a circle. To finish, drizzle house-made basil oil over it.

Reserve any leftover garlic confit for future usage.

Lobster Caprese

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Long's Holiday Tips

Don’t underestimate the time you need to prep. To avoid being caught in your PJs when guests arrive, pre-make as much as you can a day before. Practice. It’s great to try a new dish, but make it the week before first. This will give you time to fine-tune your process and give you the confidence to serve a dish that you have perfected.

DUCK TAQUITOS WITH SALSA ROJA

Brendan Long Brendan Long started as a dishwasher out of high school and fell in love with the kitchen. Today the Ohio native is Almond Palm Beach’s chef de cuisine. He thrives on his diverse days, where nothing is ever the same and he must always keep his mind as sharp as his knives. When reminiscing about the holidays, Long gets nostalgic. His most cherished holiday, Thanksgiving, brings his family into town, folding chairs and table leaves are dusted off, and everyone gathers around the table to catch up and eat. He treasures that family atmosphere centered around food. Long has been in the industry for years and says

his favorite part of it all is the people he gets to work with, from his kitchen staff to the local producers.“Working in the food industry can be stressful, but every day I get to work with awesome, truly wonderful people that are working towards the same goal,” he says.

CLASSIC DEVILED EGGS

This dish might not be the most elaborate appetizer, but it’s a classic for a reason. The small, one-bite finger food is a staple that everyone can enjoy. 6 large eggs 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste

CURE RECIPE 12 bone-in duck legs 3 cups salt 1.5 cups brown sugar Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons chopped garlic 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper ½ tablespoon ground cardamom 1 tablespoon ground coriander

Smoked paprika and chopped chives to taste Cover eggs with cold water by 1 1/2 inches in a 3-quart heavy saucepan and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to low, and cook eggs for 9 minutes. Transfer eggs with slotted spoon to bowl of ice water to stop cooking, and let stand 5 minutes. Peel eggs and halve lengthwise. Carefully remove yolks, and put in food processor bowl. Add mayonnaise, mustard and cayenne, and stir with fork until smooth, then season with salt and pepper. Fill pastry bag with yolk mixture and pipe into egg whites.

SALSA ROJA 1 yellow onion 1 head of garlic 2 guajillo chilis 1 pasilla chili 1 chipotle chili (if you want it a little spicier) 1 can crushed tomatoes GARNISHES 1 bunch cilantro A couple radishes 3 avocados Mix all ingredients of cure recipe in mixing bowl. Generously cover duck legs, place on roasting rack on sheet tray, and leave in fridge overnight. In the morning, pull duck legs out of cure, rinse off excess and discard both cure and liquid. In slow cooker, place legs and cover with duck fat (canola or another neu-

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tral oil works as substitute). Turn on slow cooker and wait about three hours for legs to cook nice and slow. It might take longer depending on slow cooker. Duck will be fork-tender when finished. Once duck is tender, cool it before picking out bones. Each leg will have three bones, the two obvious large bones and a third that’s smaller and runs along the drumstick. Discard all bones. FOR SALSA ROJA: Chop onions and garlic, and deseed chilis. Toast chilis in oven until fragrant but not burnt—about a minute or two. Set aside. Sweat onion and garlic in sauté pan until translucent. Add chilis and crushed tomatoes. Cook everything

Tips

Plate to your liking. I recommend in a circle. To finish, drizzle house-made basil oil over it.

Reserve any leftover garlic confit for future usage.

together for about 20 minutes. For a chunkier sauce, use a food processor. For smoother sauce, use a blender. TO SERVE: Serve on tortilla chips with picked duck, a dollop of salsa roja, sliced radishes, avocado and cilantro.

Deviled eggs

Tips

If you can’t get duck legs, bone-in chicken legs will work. It’s important to put something underneath the duck.

Duck taquitos

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Todd’s Holiday Tips

Start your planning early. Get the ball moving, because time waits for no one. Seek out help, whether that means hiring a server for that night or someone to help with the dishes. You can never have enough support. This will keep you out of the kitchen and eliminate any need for guests to chip in to help too. Keep your décor and menu easy and familiar. Aim for classic with a modern twist, whether adding microgreens to a dish or setting an elegant table with pops of color.

Laura Todd Laura Todd’s passion for catering and events is palpable. The West Palm Beach native prides herself on her personal connection with her clients while delivering seamless events. Todd launched Laura Ashley Catering & Events nine years ago to provide clients Palm Beach elegance with a modern twist. “I love being a part of people’s special events,” she says.“I feel like I get to follow my clients through life’s milestones. It becomes like family. I love my job because it’s so personal. They know exactly who I am. They can trust me and know that I am going to be there. Catering is more personal. It’s really people-to-people, and I

like that a lot.” Over the years, Todd learns about each home, where the spoons are kept and when a loved one has an allergy. With her full-service catering company, Todd not only takes care of every party detail but also her clients, so they can enjoy the party with the rest of their guests. A pillar in the community, Todd is a member of Impact 100 Palm Beach County, a Leukemia & Lymphoma Society fundraiser, and she’s launching her personal nonprofit, The Giving Kitchen, next year to help local charities underwrite their event catering needs. lacaterspalmbeach.com. @ la_caters_palmbeach

POMEGRANATE LAMB MEATBALLS & TURMERIC TZATZIKI SAUCE

These low-carb treats pack a flavorful punch without the guilt. MEATBALLS: 2 pounds ground lamb 2 eggs (beaten) ½ cup chopped red onion ½ cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup almond flour 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 ½ teaspoons dried rosemary 1 teaspoon ground oregano Salt and pepper to taste Pomegranate molasses (sold in Whole Foods) Pomegranate kernels Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line large baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine lamb, egg, onion, feta, almond flour, garlic, rosemary and oregano in large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Form mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs.

Arrange meatballs in single layer on prepared baking sheet, and spray with oil of choice (I use avocado). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. TZATZIKI SAUCE: 2 English cucumbers 1 ¼ cups full fat Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, minced ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon ground turmeric Black pepper, to taste Cut cucumbers in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to scrape out the seeds. Coarsely grate the cucumber using a box grater, then wrap it in paper towels or cheesecloth and squeeze to remove excess liquid. Place cucumber in bowl. Add remaining ingredients, then mix to combine. Set aside for at least 20 minutes for flavors to marry. Spread tzatziki onto serving platter. Evenly arrange meatballs on top, and drizzle with pomegranate molasses. Sprinkle pomegranate kernels over dish and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve with skewers or toothpicks and enjoy!

EVERYTHING BAGEL TARTLET & SMOKED SALMON MOUSSE

The puff pastry tartlets make for an easy canapé that you can pair with various ingredients, including this dollop of smoked salmon mousse. Get creative! 1 package puff pastry Everything Bagel seasoning 6 ounces smoked salmon 4 ounces cream cheese Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh dill Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.

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Open package of puff pastry onto floured surface, and cut small circles with 2-inch ring mold. Brush tops of cut pastry with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 2 tbsp of water). Sprinkle with Everything Bagel seasoning. Spread cut pastry evenly on lined baking sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Pomegranate lamb meatballs

Tips

Cook one meatball first before the entire batch. Taste it to make sure your seasoning is on point. Then cook the rest.

MOUSSE: Combine smoked salmon and cream cheese with salt and pepper to taste in food processor. Process until smooth and creamy. Transfer prepared mousse into piping bag and pipe a dollop onto cooled tartlets. Garnish with fresh dill. WEB EXTRA: For three bonus recipes, please visit BOCAMAG.COM/NOVEMBERDECEMBER-2023.

Tips

Tartlet with smoked salmon mousse

Change up the filling by placing the pastry in a muffin tin and filling it with cream cheese and jam for a sweet bite or spinach artichoke dip for a savory one.

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SAVANNAH MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Make sure to thaw out the pastry before working with it.

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Turn the page to learn about these experiences and more.

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Are You Experienced? With most Americans favoring real-life experiences over gifts, think outside the box this holiday season Written by JOHN THOMASON

or years in this issue, we’ve steadfastly covered the hottest new gift items to place under trees and near menorahs. But perhaps, by focusing on physical objects, we at Boca magazine have been missing the bigger picture: Increasingly, Americans prefer experiences to products. According to a much-cited third-party research study from 2018, almost three quarters of those surveyed would rather be gifted an experience than a thing. This is especially true of millennials, nearly 80 percent of whom desire experiences over products, per a 2023 survey by Eventbrite. Experts believe these gaps will continue to widen, whether from a general trend toward downsizing or from years of pandemic-induced isolation. Whatever the reason, it seems we would rather go places and do things than add the latest tech gadget or hobo bag or grilling implement to our repertoires. With this in mind, we scanned the horizons of Florida and beyond for the best holiday gifts that will make memories, not more clutter.

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Keys to the Kingdom

According to the Walt Disney World number crunchers, the average wait time for one of the park’s attractions is 36 minutes, and for the hottest rides, expect an even longer slog: As of June 2023, the wait time for“Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance”was 127 minutes—an excruciating queue even the Force cannot quell. Visitors with typical park admission can expect to spend 82 percent of their time in line. So consider gifting that special someone with a Disney World VIP Tour, which offers front-of-the-line access, insights from a tour guide, and transportation in a private, air-conditioned SUV. It’ll run each guest a minimum of $3,000 on top of the theme park ticket, but isn’t true magic priceless?

The holiday season at Epcot and the Magic Kingdom

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The Whole Nine

This year’s NFL season may be winding down by the end of this issue, but there’s no better time than now to gift the Dolphins fans in your life with seats at Hard Rock Stadium’s most exclusive table next season. The Nine, billed as“an experience unlike any other in live entertainment,”includes an open-air suite for 20, optimally situated between the 30yard lines. Guests will be deposited to and from the venue in black cars, and the premium game-day experience includes complimentary food and all beverages, including the good stuff, plus an in-suite concierge to handle all your requests during the game. Even if the Fins are getting creamed, your guests will be having the time of their lives. The Nine suite

Cabin Fever

A Getaway cabin (four-legged friends welcome)

Especially after the go-go pace of the holidays, we all need to unwind. And there may be no better place to unplug from the matrix than a tiny cabin in the woods. A gifted room at any of the more than 25 options from the website Getaway can provide your special someone with a welcome return to nature. Partnering with cabins that have “everything you need and nothing you don’t,”Getaway’s accommodations include queen beds, a kitchen, restrooms with showers, and a fire pit and grill, but no TV or electronics—they even contain a “cellphone lockbox” if you’re brave enough to put away your handheld addiction for the weekend. Getaway cabins span from the Boston area to remote Washington State; the closest Florida location is in glorious Gilchrest Blue Springs State Park outside of Orlando.

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A Certain GLOW

With the moonlight glinting off the placid waters of Florida’s Treasure Coast, a nighttime GLOW Clear Kayak Tour may be the perfect excursion for the aquatic enthusiast on your list. The two- to two-and-a-halfhour trips, starting at $65 per adult, leave from Fort Pierce, where a guide from Get Up and Go Kayaking will lead participants through mangrove tunnels, sharing facts about the area and pointing out marine life along the way. And with clear kayaks illuminated by LED lights in hues of purple and blue and red, the fishes and turtles—and maybe even a manatee or a dolphin—will shine under the crystal waters.

GLOW Clear Kayak Tour

Up in the Air

Most of us, unless we’re training to be pilots or reporting for the local news or starring in an action movie or joining nefarious deep-state conspiracies, seldom have any reason to board a private helicopter. But you and your guest can live the high life—for an hour anyway—courtesy of I95 Exotic Rentals. For $499 per person, the company’s Private Helicopter Tours leave from a hangar at Embassair in Opa-Locka, and they showcase the Magic City as you’ve never seen it before, with breathtaking views of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Miami Seaquarium, Key Biscayne, Miami Beach and downtown Miami from the vantage of a yellow Robinson R44 copter.

Helicopter excursion from I95 Exotic Rentals

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It’s All Downhill From Here South Florida has scores of active ski clubs—in fact, it’s a passion for us snow-deprived souls. If you have one of these intrepid downhill racers in your circle, consider giving them an IKON pass—the king of ski passes. It opens up more than 50 resorts, including international destinations in Europe (Chamonix!), South America, Australia and New Zealand. Closer to home, it includes some of the most iconic resorts in the Rocky Mountains, like Vail, Deer Valley, Alta, Snowbird, Sun Valley and … the list, well, it’s just too long to list. Prices range from total access at $1,259 to more à la carte plans at $469; browse the options at ikonpass.com.

Skiing in Vail, Colorado

Ultimate Buzz

From“magical slippers”and“wishing wells” to dubbing its own attendants as“fairies,” Eau Spa borrows from the language of fantasy fiction to describe the offerings in its 42,000-square-foot adult playground, one of only 49 Forbes Five-Star spas in the country. A luxury treatment at the lauded spa, part of Eau Palm Beach in Manalapan, is a surefire favorite for the beloved women on your list, with prices from $195 all the way up to the $825 per-person L’Elixir Des Glaciers Majestic Treatment. This top-of-the-line brand, from its anti-aging Essence of Bees collection, is infused with materials harnessed from the hive, including honey, propolis and royal jelly, combined with a“bespoke” (of course) massage technique on the recipient’s neck, hands and chest.

Eau Spa

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Luxe Miami 101

For the foodie on your list, how about a reservation at the only Michelin two-star restaurant in South Florida? L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, in Miami’s Design District, serves up artistically plated French fare in a four-course, prix fixe tasting menu or a la carte from a selection of creative tapas and entrees. Make it a crazy rich weekend with a stay at the Villa Casa Casuarina, the deliriously over-thetop former home of Gianni Versace, with rooms from $793 and up, and complete with hand-painted murals, handmade furnishings, stained-glass windows, and the most extraordinary ceilings this side of the Sistine Chapel. You can Brightline there, but if you’ve just won the Powerball, book a Lincoln Stretch Limousine from LX Limo, and cruise around like, well, Versace himself, complete with bar, TV, DVD player, sound system and privacy divider.

Above, Villa Casa Casuarina; right, molecular cuisine from L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon

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Put It In Park

In one of his celebrated documentaries, Ken Burns called our National Park System “America’s best idea.” Thirteen years later, Barack Obama seconded that idea in an equally lauded Netflix series. But it’s one thing to experience our national parks on the small screen, and quite another to take in the grandeur of Yosemite, Acadia or Joshua Tree in the flesh. For the traveler, hiker or sightseer on your list, $80 gets them an America the Beautiful National Park Pass, valid at any of the 63 sites from the Everglades to Glacier Bay.

Grand Canyon National Park

A Raft of Options

Speaking of our national parks, a rafting trip down Grand Canyon is truly one of the world’s greatest outdoor adventures. People wait for years to get a permit, and only a few guide companies are sanctioned to run the river. One of the oldest and best outfits, Colorado River & Trail Expeditions (CRATE), offers eight- and 11-day trips (motorized and non-motorized) down the 300-mile Colorado River through one of the wonders of the natural world, with meals, beverages and camping equipment included in the price ($3,925-$4,620). CRATE offers customized gift certificates. If your loved one likes whitewater thrills, the ideal time to embark is May through June. You’ll want to put this in a big box.

Rafting with Colorado River & Trail Expeditions

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This page, Town Hall ca. 1927 and opposite, today

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Old Boca:

Is There Anything Left? Our foremost historian shows us that not everything in Boca is new again Written by Susan Gillis s you drive or stroll around today’s downtown Boca Raton, it’s hard to imagine there is anything left of the once small town with a population of only 7,000 residents in 1960. But indeed, there are a few holdouts—if you know where to look.

Boca Raton Road and the Palmetto Promenade Boca Raton Road (not to be confused with Boca Raton Boulevard) is an east-west street that originally ran from Dixie Highway all the way to Northeast Fifth Avenue. It is one of our earliest named streets. Boca Raton Road east of today’s Sanborn Square served as the“downtown”shopping area starting in the late 1940s. (In the Boca Raton Historical

Society’s collections, there is a photo of the street dated“1953” and labeled “Main Street.”) Several of the older buildings remain today with new purposes. The Morris Block Building I, at 111 E. Boca Raton Road, is a one-story attachment to a two-story structure on the north side of the street. It was originally constructed in 1946 and was home to the post office until it moved into its new home on Northeast Second Avenue in 1960. Today it is the home of Chabad of East Boca. The building also housed J.C. Morris’s Grocery (later Dave Minnehan’s Grocery) and Roadman’s Department Store. To the east stands 115 E. Boca Raton Road—Morris Block Building II. This three-bay building built ca. 1948 was home to an appliance store and Frank’s Sundry store—another Frank Roadman business. On the south side of the street is 110 E. Boca Raton Road,

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Left, Dave Minnehan’s Grocery, 1952, now Bliss Designs; above, Frank Roadman at Frank’s Sundry, now the Snell Building (Battle Medialab) and below, the crowd at Zim’s Bar (now Elegant Child)

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en Th another multi-bay structure constructed in 1948. It was home to a variety and appliance store in the 1950s; in 1960 Roadman’s Department Store moved there. The Tucci’s Pizza building at 50 N.E. First Avenue was the “Helpy Selfy”coin laundry in the 1950s. 101 E. Palmetto Park Road to the south is another two-story structure constructed by local contractor Louis Zimmerman for mixed use in 1945. Many of the adjacent structures on both East Boca Raton Road and East Palmetto Park Road were built in the 1950s and 1960s. These businesses looked very different back in the day. They all reflected the dominant South Florida streamline modern style so popular in the mid-20th century. They featured details like flat roofs, glass blocks, and metal louvered windows in those days before air conditioning. All of these structures were “Mediterraneanized”many years ago in an attempt to conform with the city’s“Mizner style”design standards of the 1980s and beyond. Unfortunately, the buildings on the “south side” will be gone soon, replaced by the new Aletto Square building.

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The “Helpy Selfy” coin laundry in the 1950s became Tucci’s Pizza (today)

Federal Highway is so named because it was built with “federal aid” back in 1927. It took until the 1930s to complete the highway through to Miami. Dixie Highway (1915) remained the most important northsouth route until Federal was widened in the late 1940s. It is especially hard to believe there is any “old” left on Federal near Palmetto Park Road. However, a few“old timers”are still hanging on. The L-shaped strip mall which is home to Yokohama Sushi and others at the northeast corner of Federal and East Palmetto Park Road dates originally from 1949. It was home to Boca Raton Sundries and Luncheonette and other businesses back in the day. The prosaic structure got a major Mediterranean overhaul in about 1985 and a new name—“Old Towne Shoppes,”in homage to Old Town Hall, across the street. 60 South Federal today houses Oriental Warehouse, an extensive collection of Asian decorative items and furniture. It started life as another Zimmerman building in 1936. The west facade (front) is a two-story, while the back or east side actually has an arched roof like a Quonset hut. Today, this is only visible from above—or “satellite view.” The building was home to Pennell’s Garage for many years and later the “Real Estate Corner”and then Boca Marine. Its “gas station” architecture now boasts fancy tile roofs and overhangs and multiple cupolas. Only a good detective would recognize it. Directly across the street at 59 South Federal is a really old building—now home to the Elegant Child and others. This was Zim’s Bar in the 1930s and ‘40s—one of only two such establishments in town.

Federal Highway

The post office became Chabad of East Boca (today)

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Top, “three-store building,” now a mattress store and two salons; middle, Pennell’s Garage; right, Roadman's Bill Eddinger as Santa Claus, 1950; below, Boca Raton Road east from Sanborn Square,1953, and right, what was once Pennell’s Garage is the rear of Oriental Warehouse

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en Th It was, needless to say, a very popular place during World War II, when the little town was overrun with thirsty G.I.s. The two-story element was originally at the northeast corner of Dixie Highway and Palmetto Park Road—behind the current bank building. There are photos showing the building owned by local residents Helen and Maurice Stokes from 1915. This building was moved to Federal Highway (not built until the late 1920s) in 1934. Then, in 1948, Federal was widened, and the building was moved west seven feet to accommodate the new lanes. This is one of the oldest buildings left in town.

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Zim’s Bar is today’s Elegant Child

The building at 71 North Federal is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks: Boca Raton’s former city hall. In 1925, the newly incorporated town appointed famed architect Addison Mizner as city planner. One of his commissions was to design a“city hall” for Boca Raton. Mizner designed first a two-, then a one-story version; both proved too expensive, as the Florida land boom was quickly going bust. However, foundations and partial walls were erected for the one-story version, when construction was halted for several months. Finally, the town engaged the services of Delray architect William Alsmeyer, who completed the Mission-style building that stands today based on Mizner’s original footprint in 1927. The “municipal building,”as it was known for many years, served as the center of government until 1964, when “new” city hall opened on West Palmetto Park Road. The old building at 71 North Federal became home to the planning department—a place to pull your permits, etc. When new city hall was extensively remodeled in the early 1980s, the old building was no longer needed. The Boca Raton Historical Society, a nonprofit agency, took on the task of restoring the old building to her former glory, and became the long-term tenant of the city of Boca Raton. Today, visitors can view “Town Hall”when they visit the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum.

Town Hall

Boca Raton’s“village square”is opposite Town Hall on Federal Highway. The site served as the local bus station during WWII. In 1955, Eleanor Sanborn donated the south side of the park to the city in honor of her late husband William Sanborn, a longtime Boca snowbird. In the center was a large Norfolk Island pine that stood as the city’s Christmas tree for many decades. The park became the focus of city celebrations and special events for many generations to come. By the 1980s, downtown was in decline, and the Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency

Sanborn Square

Boca Raton Sundries, ca. ‘50s (photo from 1985) is now Kanpai in Old Towne Shoppes

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ow N

The Boca Raton Historical Society is a private nonprofit agency founded in 1972 with the mission to collect, preserve and share the history of Boca Raton, and act as an advocate for historic preservation in the community. The Society is headquartered in the newly renovated Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum in the historic Boca Raton Town Hall at 71 N. Federal Highway. Our History Alive! exhibits feature a complete Boca Raton historic timeline and galleries on the pioneer era, Addison Mizner and the land boom, WWII, and IBM Boca Raton. Our temporary exhibit galleries highlight various topics on local history. Boca Raton Historical Society’s programs bring Florida’s history to the community in ways that are both educational and entertaining. In addition to programs for school-age children, the museum is well known for its popular lecture series, Town Hall Talks, and tours of The Boca Raton hotel, which we have been giving for almost 50 years. The BRHS research collections serve a wide variety of patrons as the principal archive for information on the history of the area. The museum’s website, bocahistory.org, is one of its best-used assets, providing a variety of resources on local history for students, teachers and the general public. Our special events include a popular concert series and the annual Boca Bacchanal, a celebration of wine and food. The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum is at 71 N. Federal Highway in Boca Raton and is open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, and free for children under 5. Admission is free to BRHS members. For more information, visit bocahistory.org or call 561/395-6766.

Our Historical Society

Sanborn Square, then and now

Left, Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum and right, vintage Town Hall

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en Th was born to stimulate growth and bring new life to the area. One of the first projects was the expansion of the little park to the north, with the generous donation of four lots from Charles and Dorothy Schmidt. Boca Raton Road, which was then a through street from Dixie to Fifth Avenue, was vacated through the park at that time. The newly expanded park was dedicated in 1985.

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Harriet and Theodore Luff’s house, built in the 1920s, became Luff’s Fish House

Palmetto Park Road was Boca Raton’s original “street” connecting the old F.E.C. railway depot (then at Palmetto and Dixie) with the Intracoastal. It was known as the “rock road to the Canal,”and was lined with residences and snowbird cottages. Once the bridge over the Intracoastal was completed in 1917, it became the boulevard to the beach, and slowly changed into a largely commercial thoroughfare. The newer residential developments there harken back to its early days, in a way. Luff’s Fish House, at 390 E. Palmetto Park Road, is a popular restaurant that was once the home of Harriet and Theodore Luff, built in the early 1920s. This bungalow-style structure was constructed with“coral rock”— actually oolitic limestone—a popular South Florida material back in the day. Although once common, it is the only example of the style in Boca Raton. It wasn’t just a private residence: Many old-timers remember it as the Boca Watch Shoppe and home of the Junior League— and the original home of the Historical Society. 300 E. Palmetto Park Road is a small house at the intersection of Southeast Third Avenue. Today it houses a law office and has had commercial tenants for many years. However, it began life as one of the houses of “Spanish Village,”a Mizner Development Corporation project built by well-known developer Harry Vought for Addison Mizner in about 1925. There were 22 small two-bedroom houses built in Spanish Village for the Mizner project contractors and their families. They featured arched windows, tiled roofs and pecky cypress ceilings like their Old Floresta counterparts. In the 1930s, several of the houses were moved to new locations, including two to East Palmetto Park Road. Moving a house was much less costly and less of a hassle than it is today. The building features an overhang addition on the north façade, facing the street. The original house, however, appears to be intact, making a very rare structure indeed. Morada Bonita is the name of the building at 741 E. Palmetto Park Road, east of the Intracoastal bridge. This house was built in the early 1920s as a “spec house” for pioneer realtor Harley Gates in the popular Mediterranean Revival style. It has been beautifully restored and currently houses Royal Palm Properties, another wonderful example of adaptive use of an historic structure.

East Palmetto Park Road

Morada Bonita, a spec home built in the 1920s, is now Royal Palm Properties

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Interior design

Designing an experience to evoke emotions, tell stories, and create memories through a clean, elegant and functional design Follow us

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN AT H O M E PA L A Z Z O PA RT Y WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE T H R O U G H T H E LO O K I N G G L A S S

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JESSICA GLYNN

A dining room reimagined in calm blues and natural light (page 95).

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Working with 29-foot ceilings, Alterman used large area rugs to ground the open floor plan, help absorb sound and deliver a sense of warmth and relaxation. LEFT: Local artist Megan James created this painting of the ocean as a strikingly modern focal point in the long traditional hallway.

Ciao Bella!

Embracing this Italian villa’s striking architecture, designer Krista W. Alterman transformed its drab interiors into sun-drenched contemporary spaces that are as livable as they are lavish. Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

JESSICA GLYNN

arkness enveloped the home. Ebony wood furniture, medieval ironwork and elaborate built-ins weighed it down. But the property’s bones—its classic Italian architecture—offered a glimmer of its grandiose potential. That is what captivated Krista W. Alterman’s clients, and that’s what the Palm Beach-based designer used as her inspiration as she reimagined this 6,556-square-foot residence. Built in 2002 on the heels of the previous decade’s Tuscan villa trend, the home embodied a bigger-is-always-better style with countless columns, arches, hallways and stained-glass windows.“We had to think outside the box and figure out how to meld a variety of different styles to create a home that is beautiful, warm and represents the clients,”she says. Refreshing this expansive, dated home didn’t dissuade Alterman; instead, the Connecticut native used her understanding of her clients’ desire to create a welcoming and tranquil vacation retreat for themselves and their family to inspire and influence her redesign. Alterman, whose firm Krista + Home recently celebrated its 15th anniversary, is a pro at

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FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

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ABOVE: Airy Kravet drapes soften the family room that overlooks the pool, while the plush Holly Hunt sectional and Interlude Home armchairs infuse the space with comfort and ease. RIGHT: The house’s heavy Mediterranean architectural components (far right) are brightened and updated with a wash of light and contemporary cozy furnishings (right).

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BEFORE/living room

JESSICA GLYNN

BEFORE/family room interpreting her clients’ needs and wants into polished but also functional spaces while providing personalized service from the ground up. Taking each project beyond its physical completion, Alterman provides an upgraded concierge service that stocks her client’s refrigerators, purchases their Le Creuset collection, organizes their pantry and curates their beauty products. After the final paver has been laid, Alterman has always offered a finishing service where she curates art and accessories. Still, she explains,“around COVID, people were just looking for more. People were living in their homes so much more that they were looking for those creature comforts and that sort of finality to a home that feels complete and ready to live in. That is the ultimate luxury, so when I say we provide a luxury service for our clients, that’s absolutely what they’re getting from us.” The homeowners were keen on preserving the home’s Italian architecture, including the columned hallways, stained-glass windows, travertine flooring and intricate millwork.“The home just felt cold and large to them. They wanted to keep that sort of Italian grandeur of the house, but they wanted to add warmth and modernize it,”Alterman explains.“They didn’t want to rip everything out, because they were attracted to this home because of those specific elements.” The designer stripped away the interior’s mix of dark

woods, gold accents, heavy gothic details and medieval ironwork to allow the beauty of the millwork and architecture to stand out. To create a clean slate, Alterman introduced a simplified monochromatic palette with thoughtful pops of colors and cast everything in natural light. This was especially important for her clients, who are avid art collectors. The space’s muted background enabled their kaleidoscope of pieces to stand out. The finished project is a four-bedroom home drolly dubbed “The White Lotus,”given Alterman’s inspiration from the acclaimed TV show’s setting in Taormina, Sicily. Italy’s coastal aesthetic influenced Alterman with its whitewashed structures, impeccable craftsmanship, and spaces that are as sophisticated as they are serene. An overall quiet, neutral palette replaced the living room’s variance of colors. The imposing beige fireplace and limestone wall were whitewashed, evoking the coastal Italian style. Gossamer Kravet drapes allow sunlight to fill space and complement the neutral Vanguard coffee table and cozy Bernhardt armchairs. Alterman explains that the previous furniture wasn’t appropriately scaled, so for this spacious room, she opted for larger pieces of plush furniture that fit the room and also offered a comfortable respite for her Manhattan-based clients wanting to disconnect.“It’s so cool to have something so modern in front of this ridiculously huge fireplace that’s clearly

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not modern. That juxtaposition to me is really cool,” the designer says, describing the cream Roche Bobois bubble sofas she also chose for their snuggly, pillowy quality. The dining room’s whimsical design peeks out into the living room. Since the room didn’t have any specific Italian architectural elements, Alterman leaned into a more contemporary look. She designed the space around the Phillip Jeffries fanciful wallpaper that reminded her of a mural one could find in a luxe hotel on Italy’s coast. The custom chandelier, Migration, adds to the buoyancy of the room with its fish-like hand-blown glass lights seemingly gliding through the sky.“We wanted [the room] to feel like a piece of art in and of itself,” she says. In the kitchen, Alterman kept her redesign simple by uniting the existing flooring with new Calacatta Gold porcelain countertops and backsplash that pick up on the warmth of the travertine. She also added seating to the second island. Because the homeowners love color, Alterman removed the mirrored scrollwork on the existing cabinets’ glass, painted them a coastal blue and added antique brass hardware to give them an elevated contemporary feel. A columned hallway leading to the second-floor suite felt dated and crowded, so she painted the Corinthian columns, added grasscloth wallpaper for warmth, and swapped out the tired lighting for modern silver lanterns by Visual Comfort.

JESSICA GLYNN

The homeowners opted to keep the kitchen’s original hammered silver sink and range hood crafted of hammered metal and polished nickel.

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Alterman painted the dining room’s original crown molding white to accentuate the handmade millwork’s intricate details, which are beautifully illuminated by natural light flooding into the space from the Zen garden.

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AT HOME

ABOVE LEFT: The original marble highlighted the stained-glass window, so Alterman refinished it, repainted the wainscotting a bright white and added new Schumacher wallpaper.

JESSICA GLYNN

FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN

ABOVE: Alterman designed new cabinetry to look seamless with its original counterparts, complete with traditional elements and heavy molding. LEFT: Designer Krista W. Alterman RIGHT: A Made Goods kabibe shell chandelier and table lamps add metallic, modern touches to the bedroom.

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Inside the primary suite, Alterman created a space reminiscent of an upscale Taormina hotel, with its cozy sitting area fronting an impressive fireplace and a stylish private balcony overlooking the pool and golf course. The client wanted a youthful color palette, and Alterman responded with vibrant Schumacher wallpaper and accent pieces, including the pillows and twill Interlude Home swivel chairs. The ensuite bathroom’s stained-glass windows—beloved by her clients—were a design quandary for Alterman. She wanted to respect the intention of the original home, but she had to discover a way to integrate them into her contemporary design. “When you have a design challenge, the only way to

make it work is to not try to hide it, to actually highlight it,”she explains. Instead of running away from the colorful glass, she added more glass with the Visual Comfort bubble chandelier—a nod to that original window in the bathroom. She then expanded the purpose of the suite’s large closet beyond just a place for her client to dress. She created a lively space for friends to gather, complete with a Champagne-stocked fridge, day bed and makeup vanity. Reflecting on this home, Alterman feels a sense of pride for creating a space that represents her clients.“I really try to be a style guru to my clients so that we’re speaking their language. That really came through with this house.”

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Walk-in closet custom designed by California Closets

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PALAZZO PARTY Embrace your inner maximalist. Pair luxurious fabrics in jewel tones with marble, metal and gilded accents to create a space the Medicis would envy.

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1. Petits Appartements de la Reine Fabric - to the trade, Pierre Frey, pierrefrey. com. 2. Bloomingdale’s Artisan Collection Charlotte Velvet Sofa - $2,699, Bloomingdale’s, Boca Raton, bloomingdales.com. 3. Bastille Stool - $1,095, Jayson Home, jaysonhome.com. 4. Hampton Large Chandelier - $1,269, Aerin, Palm Beach, aerin.com. 5. The Renaissance Luxury Candle by Harlem Candle Co. - $48, Nordstrom, Boca Raton, nordstrom.com. 6. Ezra Optic Decanter - $64.95, Wine Glass - $15.95, Crate & Barrel, Boca Raton, crateandbarrel.com. 7 Waterford Castle Cove Decorative Pillows, Set of 3 - $250, Macy’s, Boca Raton, macys.com. 8. Talitha Cabinet - $2,096, Jonathan Adler, Miami, jonathanadler.com. 9. Judarn Sculptural Chair - $898, Anthropologie, Dania Beach, anthropologie.com. 9

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Where the Wild Things Are

Bring the outdoors in with natural materials; lush, botanical prints; and bright, tropical hues. 1. Amina 4-Piece Place Setting - $25.90, Crate & Barrel, Boca Raton, crateandbarrel.com. 2. Tufted Bengal Rug starting at $98, Tufted Octavia Leopard Rug - starting at $178, Anthropologie, Dania Beach, anthropologie.com. 3. Balboa Rattan Chest - $3,298, Serena & Lily, Palm Beach, serenaandlily.com. 4. Sedona Wood Bed - $3,095, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Boca Raton, mgbwhome.com.

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5. La Palmeraie Wallpaper - to the trade, Pierre Frey, pierrefrey.com. 6. Loriini Botanical Green Outdoor Pillow - $500, Beverly Hills Green On Sky Outdoor Pillow - $500, Hive, Palm Beach, hivepalmbeach.com. 7. Weatherley Mirror in Natural Lampakanay - $2,225, Hive, Palm Beach, hivepalmbeach.com. 8. Cape Coffee Table $1,198, Serena & Lily, Palm Beach, serenaandlily. com. 9. Walden Chair - $395, Jayson Home, jaysonhome.com. 9

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B A C K S TA G E PA S S

“The Nepenthes and the Dragonfly” by Helene Schmitz from “Flora Imaginaria: The Flower in Contemporary Photography” at Society of the Four Arts

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TAKE 5

Ron Garrett

This Boca Raton artist brings a passion for endangered marine life into stark relief Written by JOHN THOMASON

We have to be more mindful and thoughtful about what we’re using and what we’re doing. ... Our carelessness—you finish something, and it winds up in the dump, and it winds up in the ocean.” —Ron Garrett

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n the multimedia artworks of Ron Garrett, marine life is often comprised of the very materials that led to its downfall. Such was the case with “Manatee’s Lament,” a highlight of the Cornell Art Museum’s “World of Water” exhibition earlier this year. Created to scale, the ceiling-mounted resin sculpture is covered entirely from the up-cycled debris that has crept into the manatee’s polluted home, serving as a reminder of humans’ impact on the beloved sea cow. Similarly, Garrett’s sculpture“Fate” offers a hammerhead shark, its body dragging a motley assemblage of deadly detritus—a tire, a giant hook, bubble wrap, netting, rope, Styrofoam, plastic bottles, a broken surfboard. As Garrett reveals to Boca magazine, he grew up around the ocean, and its impact has reverberated across the decades. A Boca Raton resident and a graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design, Garrett has enjoyed a 30-year career in the visual arts. He is also an accomplished printmaker, running his own RAGA Press. When not working on his art, he enjoys refurbishing vintage printing presses the way a gearhead likes tinkering with old cars. Four such machines fill the living room of his atelier, including one formerly rusty hulk, dredged from a seabed, that dates to the 1880s. With its manual wheel to turn the levers,“it would be something Rembrandt and Goya would feel absolutely at home on,”Garrett says.

Why is the connection to the ocean so strong in your work? The early connection goes back to childhood. Until I was 13, I lived right off the beach in Juno Beach. At the time— this is going to be hard to imagine—there was nothing there. All along the Intracoastal, there were no houses. It was just woods. We were underneath the tall, Australian pines playing all the time. We’d literally be in the water, and pods of manatee would come along and swim right beside us. I’d see that big tail go by. That made a very strong connection. Then when we moved to North Carolina … it created a longing for that lost paradise. … I always missed the more subtropical coastal waterworld of Florida. When did your work begin to take on an environmental awareness? I think it was always there. It would come and go. When I was working on my BFA, I was doing figurative heads. But the heads always had strong landscape or nature components going on within them. So it wasn’t just the head; it was a head made of roots, or it was a head coming right out of the ground: The buried past, the passage of time, all the metaphorical or allegorical things tended to work their way into it.

Tell me about making your sculpture “Manatee’s Lament.” My painting“Manatee Lagoon” was the serenity idea. They’re in their lagoon, on a moonlit night, as sublime as you can get.“Manatee’s Lament” is what they’re really dealing with. It’s almost the same pose, except in many ways the “Lament” is like a cadaver. I even had a tear coming out of its eye. If you saw it from the backside, its back is all cut up by propeller blades. What do you hope your works instill in the viewer? A lot of times, I will make something dire look whimsical, or have a whimsical component. But I use that to pull them in. And then you start analyzing, reading the tea leaves of what’s going on within it, and then you start to go, ‘that’s wire wrapped around its fin.’ What should we be doing differently to live in better harmony with nature? We have to be more mindful and thoughtful about what we’re using and what we’re doing. … Our carelessness— you finish something, and it winds up in the dump, and it winds up in the ocean. It led to shipwrecks, too, but those get re-used by nature. They become reefs for fish. That’s a different kind of human debris left behind. That we’re messing up the environment, that’s a bigger issue.

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Ron Garrett with “Manatee’s Lament” at Cornell Museum at Old School Square

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A AL ES N SC E OD N APRR E V I E W

Curtains Up

A wide-ranging look at 2023-2024’s A&E highlights Written by JOHN THOMASON

he real Carrie Bradshaw, the OG captain of the starship Enterprise, a Police man gone solo, and a paranormal podcast that specializes in fake news. These are just a few of the 25 curated events on tap for another jam-packed South Florida arts season. On the following pages, discover why the Boca Raton Museum of Art is trading in magical thinking, why the tide is high for the Symphonia, and who’s headlining the next Festival of the Arts Boca. From jazz and classical to indie rock and comedy; from visual arts to opera and dance; and from guest lecturers to local plays and Broadway tours, another star-studded season awaits. So mark those calendars and get out there.

“SMOKE AND MIRRORS: MAGICAL THINKING IN CONTEMPORARY ART”

november

Having ascended into suborbital space on a Blue Origin spacecraft, William Shatner has literally gone where few men have gone before … and in short order, he’s going to Fort Lauderdale. A young 92, Shatner is a renaissance man whose curiosity for the mysteries of life parallels that of his most famous character, James T. Kirk. This evening of nerd bliss begins with a screening of “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan”—unimpeachably the best film spawned from the original series—and continues with a moderated discussion and Q&A with the audience. Nov. 9 at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

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BILL BURR

KOURY ANGELO

WILLIAM SHATNER LIVE

The Boca Museum’s signature winter exhibition is perhaps equal parts whimsical fantasy and urgent wake-up call. Inspired by the life and activism of the late magician and South Florida resident the Amazing Randi, it explores magical thinking in dual contexts— as the fodder for ostensibly innocent stage illusionists and as the pernicious calling card of professional charlatans. In forging connections between the overt performance of tricks to the internet deep-fakes, alternative facts and disinformation designed to deceive us, “Smoke and Mirrors” asks us, rightly, to question everything. Nov. 15-April 14 at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 561/392-2500, bocamuseum.org

The first comedian to perform at Fenway Park, Bill Burr has earned Emmy and Grammy nominations, not to mention a rabid following. An intellectual and philosopher hidden under the façade of an everyman persona—on a recent podcast, Howie Mandel called him “one of the most fascinating people in the world” and a “comedian’s comedian”—Burr specializes in a relentless and un-woke form of standup, airing his populist views through material and delivery that, even in a divided populace, can’t help but attract audiences of all persuasions. Nov. 9 at Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood; 954/797-5531, seminolehardrockhollywood.com

“WELCOME TO NIGHT VALE”

In the 11 years since it premiered in our earbuds, “Welcome to Night Vale” has evolved from an upstart sci-fi comedy podcast to a cultish multimedia phenomenon spanning books, a touring stage show, and a forthcoming TV series from FX. The concept is a satire on our increasingly paranoid times: Each half-hour podcast is presented as a radio news update in the fictional Southwestern town of Night Vale, in which, per co-creator Joseph Fink, “all conspiracy theories are real.” For instance, listeners can tune in to learn about the menacing Glow Cloud hovering over the town, a hidden city buried under the Night Vale bowling alley, the continual disappearance of the radio station’s interns, and an invasion from a demonic beagle puppy. This stage production, catering to both newcomers and longtime fans, features all-new dispatches and live music. Nov. 17 at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

Jacqueline Laggy, Paul Wong and Wayne LeGette in “Warrior Class”

November/December 2023

10/4/23 12:10 PM

SYMPHONIA CONCERT II: “FLOWING TIDES”

Expanding on last season’s theme of the Earth and its essential elements, the Symphonia will continue to celebrate nature and the world around us in its four-part “Journey to Discovery.” “Flowing Tides” features Patrick Harlin’s recently composed, seven-movement “Wilderness Anthology,” a combination of live string quartet performance and audio soundscapes recorded in environmentally imperiled destinations such as the Amazon Rainforest and Utah’s Book Cliffs. The program also includes Benjamin Britten’s “Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings” and Mozart’s final symphony, “Jupiter.” Dec. 3 at Countess de Hoernle Theatre at Spanish River High School, 5100 Jog Road, Boca Raton; 561/376-3848, thesymphonia.org

ANDY SUMMERS

“FLORA IMAGINARIA: THE FLOWER IN CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY”

“PRESENCE: THE PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION OF JUDY GLICKMAN LAUDER”

This wide-ranging exhibition of 20th century photography celebrates the art form’s unique ability to provide “presence” across styles ranging from landscapes and portraits to surrealism and street photography. Judy Glickman Lauder, herself an accomplished photographer and wife of cosmetics heir Leonard Lauder, has amassed one of the nation’s most esteemed and eclectic photography collections, and “Presence” is a dynamic journey, divided into four themed sections, through the image-makers that compel her, including Richard Avedon, Dorothea Lange, Edward Steichen and Nan Goldin. Dec. 2-March 10 Norton Museum of Art, 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach; 561/832-5196, norton.org

Flowers have captivated artists from time immemorial, from durable still-lifes to the undulating blooms of Georgia O’Keeffe. “Flora Imaginaria” focuses specifically on the flower’s impact and inspiration on photographers, who have deployed floral imagery in everything from botanical studies to portraits to surrealist collages, street photography and even studies of the human body. Mounted in the Four Arts’ Hulitar Sculpture Garden—nestled among actual flowers—the exhibition features 71 photographs by 49 artists, among them Martin Schoeller, Vik Muniz and filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar. Dec. 2-April 28 at Society of the Four Arts Sculpture Garden, 100 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach; 561/6557227, fourarts.org

“Jeff Koons” by Martin Schoeller

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december

English guitarist Andy Summers was an integral part of the Police’s breathtaking nine-year run, and his style on tracks from “Every Breath You Take” to “Roxanne”—a patented blend of tape delays, chorus effects and other pedals—all but defined the bright, burgeoning new-wave sound of the 1980s. But he’s also released 13 studio albums under his own name in a productive, if largely under-the-radar, post-Police career, while also exhibiting his photography and penning eight books. For this tour, titled “A Cracked Lens + a Missing String,” Summers will spelunk his copious back catalog, from solo and Police numbers to a bossa nova tune and even a jazz piano standard from Thelonious Monk. Dec. 7 at the Parker, 707 N.E. Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

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SEASON PREVIEW

“FIDDLER ON THE ROOF”

AMERICAN PATCHWORK QUARTET

Inspired by the ethnomusicologist Alan Lomax’s quote that “America has a patchwork culture made of the dreams and songs of all its people,” this ace quartet draws from its own “patchwork” of players to excavate and reimagine treasures of early American roots music. An American-born drummer and guitarist join a Mumbai-born vocalist and a native Japanese bassist—all naturalized U.S. citizens, and all with Grammy nominations or victories to their credits—weave a “nation of immigrants” narrative into their entrancing takes on classics from “Wayfaring Stranger” to “Shenandoah,” for an uplifting sound that fits snugly into folk and jazz festivals alike. Jan. 10 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org

One of the most infrequently produced Broadway warhoses in South Florida regional theatre, this Jerry Bock/ Sheldon Harnick musical is based on Sholem Aleichem’s cherished Jewish folk tales. It centers, of course, on Tevye, who toils as a milkman while raising three strong-willed daughters in a village in Imperial Russia circa 1905. Its themes, including the preservation of religious tradition amid accelerating cultural change, have transcended the musical itself, as much as its hummable classics, like “If I Were a Rich Man,” have become standards in the pop, jazz and classical songbooks. Jan. 11-Feb. 11 at the Wick Theatre, 7901 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton; 561/995-2333, thewick.org

Branford Marsalis

JAZZ FEST

Saxophonist Branford Marsalis, an upstart of contemporary jazz in the 1980s, is now one of the genre’s titans, whose soulful tone has brought depths of feeling to collaborations with the Grateful Dead, Sting, Broadway and Hollywood hits—as well as works with his own quartet, which he will perform at this free festival. Marsalis will be preceded by singer-songwriter Lisa Fischer. Najee, David Sanchez and the Valerie Tyson Band round out the lineup. Jan. 18-20 at Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach; and Old Town Square, Pompano Beach; pompanobeacharts.org.

january

HIP-HOP ORCHESTRA EXPERIENCE

At least since the electronic musician Wendy Carlos began to re-arrange Bach compositions for the electronic moog synthesizer, in the 1960s, artists have been interpreting works of classical virtuosity for new mediums and new audiences. The Hip-Hop Orchestra Experience continues in that tradition. South Korean Artistic Director and pianist JooWan Kim’s boundary-collapsing project fosters a vibe that is equal parts concert performance and club night, as talented MCs rap over a live orchestra, complete with woodwinds, French horns, strings and drums, breathing new life into works by Beethoven, Bach and Mozart. It’s all of a piece with Kim’s vision to “sample differences, change everything.” Jan. 20 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org

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BEO STRING QUARTET

Founded in 2015 “on a lark” by talented brothers Jason (violin) and Sean Neukom (viola), the Beo String Quartet has emerged as not only a dominant steward of the classical canon but as a powerhouse of contemporary composition as well. The quartet, complete with violinist Andrew Giordano and cellist Ryan Ash, has premiered no fewer than 65 pieces in its eight-year tenure, while mastering 145 concert works from the likes of Beethoven, Bach and Mozart. The adventurous quartet has even been known to integrate drums, electronics and live sound processing into its performances, which bridge gaps between the past, present and future of string music. Feb. 7 at Flagler Museum, 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach; 561/655-2833, flaglermuseum.us

CANDACE BUSHNELL

When it comes to the New York City high life in the 1990s, Candace Bushnell knows where the bodies are buried. The onetime freelance journalist’s witty column “Sex and the City,” published for three influential years at the New York Observer, brought all manner of private affairs into the public eye while promoting an empowered, sex-positive image of women. The rest, of course, is history, as Bushnell, who modeled Carrie Bradshaw on herself, would spearhead one of HBO’s most successful TV franchises of all-time. Now, Bushnell is emerging from behind the curtain in this onstage memoir, which covers her whirlwind history of literature, fashion and sex in the Big Apple. Jan. 26-28 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org

“ROOTED”

The Florida premiere of this new work by playwright Deborah Zoe Laufer follows two sisters, Emery and Hazel, who have spent their entire 60-plus years in the same small town in upstate New York, with Emery spending much of her time blogging about the consciousness of plants. But when her favorite subject— her beloved tree Mabel—begins to accrue a religious/mystical import, these unassuming sisters become an unexpected internet sensation. “Rooted” is the second in a planned trilogy of Laufer plays, following “Be Here Now” (also produced at Theatre Lab), that deal with metaphysical subjects in our grounded reality. Jan. 31-Feb. 18 at Theatre Lab at FAU, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton; 561/2976124, fauevents.com

Alanis Morissette’s 1995 album Jagged Little Pill is more than a Gen-X touchstone, selling upwards of 33 million copies. Recognizing that her lyrics might lend themselves to something more grandiose than just an album, Morissette helped rework the songs into this jukebox musical, complete with a script by Diablo Cody (“Juno,” “Young Adult”). Spotlighting the underbelly of suburban America, this national tour of the 15-time Tony-nominated musical follows a family riven by opioid and pornography addiction, and disputes over gender identity and sexuality, with Morissette’s iconic tunes adding depth, color and a rock pulse. Feb. 20-25 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org

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february

HYPROV

A portmanteau for “hypnotism” and “improv,” Hyprov is the Frankenstein concoction of celebrated stage hypnotist Asad Mecci and improviser extraordinaire Colin Mochrie (“Whose Line is it Anyway?”). Mecci will hypnotize 20 eager audience volunteers, who will then engage in improv games with Mochrie, from singing an opera aria to juggling “chainsaws.” Though as with all improv, no two shows on the tour are alike. Hyprov promises a precarious evening of comedy, with as much potential to veer off the rails as to stay on them. But with Mochrie and Mecci as conductors, even a bumpy ride will likely be an enjoyable one. Jan. 20 at the Parker, 707 N.E. Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

“JAGGED LITTLE PILL”

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SEASON PREVIEW

FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS BOCA

Our hometown arts festival’s 18th year returns in March with another strong and diverse lineup of speakers and performers, a distinction that blurs in the form of Renée Fleming: The famed soprano will perform a soaring recital on March 3, then return on March 4 for a “Music and the Mind” lecture on the connection between the arts and our mental health. Also on the docket for 2024 are eclectic multi-hyphenate designer Isaac Mizrahi with his solo cabaret show; a performance from Barcelona’s Flamenco Ballet; a reading from Richard Blanco, the poet who recited at Barack Obama’s second presidential inauguration; and the Henry Mancini Orchestra, playing selections for its namesake’s 100th birthday. March 1-10 at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 561/571-5279, festivalboca.org

Isaac Mizrahi

MIAMI CITY BALLET: SPRING MIX III

This season, the tri-county area’s most celebrated dance company returns with four programs, each titled and themed after the season in which they are presented. Each is divided between innovation and tradition, with new and recent works sharing stages with classics from the George Balanchine canon. The centerpiece of the Spring Mix is Balanchine’s “Agon,” a demandingly athletic work inspired by selections from a 17th century French dance manual, and set to a majestic and intense Igor Stravinsky score. The program also features choreographer Alonzo King’s “Following the Subtle Current Upstream,” which King describes as “a piece about how we return to joy,” and a world premiere from Brazilian-born Miami choreographer Ricardo Amarante. March 23-24 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org.

“DEATH OF A SALESMAN”

Never a company to shy away from herculean, canonical plays, Palm Beach Dramaworks will mount the first professional production of “Death of a Salesman” in South Florida since God knows when. Arthur Miller’s seminal two-act tragedy plumbs the fractured consciousness of its traveling salesman Willy Loman, the ultimate unreliable narrator, who is increasingly unable to separate his illusions and memories with contemporaneous events. A blistering account of the withering American Dream, “Death of a Salesman” won a Tony and Pulitzer upon its 1949 debut. March 29-April 14 at Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St., West Palm Beach; 561/514-4042, palmbeachdramaworks.org

ANDREW ECCLES DECCA

PAT METHENY

march

Renée Fleming

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The reigning lion of jazz guitar—with the distinctively leonine locks to prove it—Pat Metheny has earned the respect to pretty much do whatever he wants, and those desires are never predictable from album to album. And so, off the heels of the hard bop-style jazz trio of his 2019 Side-Eye album and tour, his latest and 53rd LP, Dream Box, finds Metheny performing spare and unaccompanied solo compositions, though in a mode no less exploratory than his fans have come to expect. “I have almost no memory of having recorded most of them,” Metheny wrote, in the liner notes. “They just kind of showed up.” This tour will feature many of these dreamlike one-man excursions along with new arrangements from his back catalog. March 19 at the Parker, 707 N.E. Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

November/December 2023

10/4/23 12:11 PM

april

PALM BEACH OPERA: “NORMA”

Vincenzo Bellini’s rarely produced bel canto masterpiece will close out Palm Beach Opera’s 2024 season on a shattering soprano note, in what will mark the company’s first mounting of “Norma” in 15 years. The opera is set against the backdrop of the Gallic uprising against their Roman occupiers. The title character, a druid high-priestess, broke her vows of chastity when she fell in love with the Roman proconsul Pollione, ultimately mothering two children. But, as true of toxic men in 100 B.C. Gaul as it is today, Pollione began courting a younger woman, Adalgisa. When Norma tries to convince Pollione to take her back, tragedy ensues— leading, literally, to a fiery conclusion. April 5-7 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org.

JOSÉ GONZÁLEZ

A Swedish-born singer-songwriter of Argentine heritage—his parents fled that country’s military coup d’état in 1976—José González has established a distinctive, if not exactly prolific career. He’s released just four albums in 20 years, each of them anchored by his elliptical, hypnotic acoustic guitar, and by lyrics that trade easy sentiment for poetic provocation. His 2021 single “Head On,” for instance, rhymes “value extractors” with “power snatchers” and “pervert incentives” with “nepotism.” González sings in three languages, and in some ways his music is as much a hybrid as his cultural makeup, evoking the swaying bossa nova of Antonio Carlos Jobim, the restless quaver of Elliott Smith and the cryptic lyricism of Bob Dylan in equal measure. May 1 at Miami Beach Bandshell, 7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 786/453-2897, miamibeachbandshell.com

“MRS. DOUBTFIRE”

“JULIE EVANS: SCULPTURES AND PAINTINGS”

Beginning in the late ‘90s, New York painter Julie Evans made the first of nine visits to India, and found herself overwhelmed by the sights and scents. Taken with the maximalism of Mumbai, she incorporated influences from Indian paintings into her own mandala-heavy work … until, that is, she found herself repeating the same motifs. So she “threw the baby out with the bathwater” and shifted her focus to the nebulous abstractions that constitute “Sculptures and Paintings.” The work feels more definitively hers, whether in 2D or 3D form, with her sculptures suggesting mycological networks and fantasy-film flora. When asked when she knows a work is finished, Evans offered a down-to-Earth response: “It just feels like there’s not anything there that’s bothering me.” May 8-Oct. 20 at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 561/3922500, bocamuseum.org

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Nineties cultural chestnuts continue to find second lives on the Broadway stage, from the aforementioned “Jagged Little Pill” to the breezier “Mrs. Doubtfire.” The musical comedy adaptation, featuring 16 new songs from composer-lyricists Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick, suffered from star-crossed timing in its March 2020 Broadway debut, bowing out due to COVID closures before its opening night, and ultimately running for just 83 performances after a timid reopening. Yet actor Rob McClure, tasked with filling Robin Williams’ incomparable shoes in the title role, earned a Tony nom for his performance—so the pressure is on for whoever dons the spectacles and nanny garb for this Broadway tour. April 9-21 at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

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Ann Mazor Reed, DO

Chere Lucas Anthony, MD

Lisa Tack, PA-C

Christina Smitley, APRN, FNP-C

Where Function Meets Form Clinical & Cosmetic Dermatology Board-Certified Dermatologists At Rendon Center our team of Dermatologists combine all aspects of their experience to deliver an unmatched level of comprehensive care. By marrying years of clinical knowledge and artistic elegance, our seasoned group of skin experts provide the the best solution for the dermatologic needs of Boca Raton every day. • • • • •

General Dermatology Skin Cancer Surgery Comprehensive Cosmetic and Laser Center Full Facial Aesthetics Spa Treatments

561.750.0544

www.rendoncenter.com

1001 NW 13th St, Suite 100, Boca Raton, FL 33486

Their names may be familiar but their talents, expertise and occupations remain a source of information and inspiration. Find out more about these Faces that grace our community with their contributions, and teach us a few things along the way.

The 561 Face of The World’s Most Exclusive Diamonds Rosenberg Diamonds & Co. David Rosenberg, Founder, President, Diamantaire

David Rosenberg is always on the go, engaging with clientele in search of rare, large, important white diamonds and natural fancy color diamonds. Although headquartered in Boca Raton, his company’s reach extends worldwide, serving clients from Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. “If someone is looking for the best of the best, we are the ultimate destination,” says the founder, president and diamantaire of his sought-after collection that’s adorned some of the world’s most alluring individuals. Ensuring the integrity of his business, Rosenberg is committed to ethically and responsibly sourced diamonds. He recently partnered with a cutting facility in Johannesburg, South Africa, and strengthened his relationships with the mines in Botswana and Angola, making Rosenberg Diamonds vertically integrated from the rough to the end consumer.

While there’s much to appreciate in this business, Rosenberg takes the time to forge relationships with his clientele and ensures everyone feels like family. He finds joy in hearing clients’ unique stories and paints a picture of these frequent romantic moments: scenes of a longmarried couple sitting across his desk, where the wife’s eyes illuminate with delight upon seeing the diamond her husband purchased. “Witnessing these heartfelt exchanges,” he explains, “makes the jewelry business truly special.”

ROSENBERG DIAMONDS & CO. 561.477.5444 RosenbergDiamonds.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Rosenberg’s collections mirror the unique essence of the diamonds he sources, presenting timeless jewels that transcend generations. Personally curated by Rosenberg, each piece radiates unparalleled quality and vibrant color, like the new Candy collection, a display of the rarest and finest fancy-colored diamonds. Describing it as a “kaleidoscope” of every color, the dazzling assortment features exquisite earrings, stunning bracelets and opulent rings.

Frederic J. Norkin, DMD

André De Souza, DMD

Liliana Aranguren, DDS, MDSc

The 561 Faces of Healthy Smiles and Dental Implant Solutions South Florida Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Having a beautiful healthy smile is important for everyone at every age. Dental problems like periodontal (gum) disease, tooth loss and bone loss often deprive people of that effortless, sparkling, radiant smile and the confidence that comes with it. The doctors from South Florida Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry have focused their careers, services, and facilities on personalized, state-of-the-art care in Boca Raton for more than 30 years. Whether you need to maintain your natural teeth with laser-assisted gum treatment, replace missing teeth with robotically placed dental implants and immediate restorations, restore lost jawbone structure, or enhance your smile with gum repositioning, our doctors excel in these areas. Our vast experience makes us uniquely qualified to help patients overcome failures and complications encountered with previous treatment. But that’s not all. We wrote the book on many of these procedures (literally)! Our doctors are known worldwide for clinical advances, enhancements, and excellence. We have contributed to technical books, dozens of scientific, peer-reviewed articles and hundreds of professional presentations sharing our developments and techniques. We are known for these innovations and excellent results nationally and internationally!

SOUTH FLORIDA CENTER FOR PERIODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY 561-912-9993 Flsmile.com Jeffrey Ganeles, DMD, FACD

Samuel Zfaz, DDS

JESUS-ARANGUREN

The physical resources in our office including digital technology, sedation options and a skilled team combine with our commitment to individualized, efficient and excellent results distinguish us. You don’t need a referral to see our doctors; just contact us for an evaluation.

The 561 Faces of Spine Care and Surgery FLORIDA SPINE ASSOCIATES The Florida Spine Associates’ team of Board-Certified and Fellowship Trained spine surgeons and pain management physicians have trained at some of the world’s most renowned institutions. Together, they have more than 50 years of combined experience in all aspects of orthopedic care. The doctors are able to offer world-class comprehensive spine care, from simple, outpatient procedures to complex revision surgery and scoliosis surgery. The team commonly treats compression fractures, disc herniations, arthritis and degenerative disc disease. Procedures routinely performed include kyphoplasty, radio frequency ablation, epidural steroid injections and many others. FSA has eight locations serving Palm Beach and Broward counties. The comprehensive centers offer convenient, on-site procedure facilities, diagnostic testing and physical therapy.

FLORIDA SPINE ASSOCIATES 561.495.9511 floridaspineassociates.com Pictured left to right, back row Dr. Michael Auerbach, Dr. Javier E. Sanchez, Dr. Jonathan Kamerlink, Dr. Brian Burrough Pictured left to right, front row Daniel Burkholtz, PA-C, Dr. Arthur Germain, Charlotte Vinton, APRN

Dr. Michael Auerbach Board-Certified Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist Dr. Javier E. Sanchez Board-Certified Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist Dr. Jonathan Kamerlink Board-Certified Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist Dr. Brian Burrough Board-Certified Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist Dr. Robert P. Norton Board-Certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Dr. Milad Alam Board-Certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon Dr. Seth MacMahon Board-Certified Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist

Dr. Arthur Germain Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

Pictured left to right, back row Dr. Robert Norton, Dr. Milad Alam, Dr. Seth MacMahon, Dr. Ariel Morales Pictured left to right, front row Nicole Vega, PA-C, Elizabeth Moore, APRN, Ryan Horton, PA-C

JASON NUTTLE

Dr. Ariel Morales Board-Certified Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist

The 561 Face of Lasting Impact United Way of Palm Beach County Dr. Laurie George, President & CEO

United Way of Palm Beach County stands as a driving force in tackling pressing community challenges such as fighting hunger, addressing educational disparities and providing support for housing needs. “We carefully identify critical needs impacting Palm Beach County residents and invest donor dollars into more than 110 programs and initiatives,” says Dr. George, the chapter’s first female president and CEO. The nonprofit aims to create long-lasting systemic change that positively impacts Palm Beach County residents. As one of only six United Ways in Florida to receive a prestigious MacKenzie Scott Grant, United Way of Palm Beach County has leveraged a portion of the gift to partner with the Palm Beach County Food Bank to build a food preservation center, ensuring access to nourishing and affordable food for those in need.

With a focus on providing essential support for years to come, the organization stands as a beacon of hope, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all.

UNITED WAY OF PALM BEACH COUNTY 561.375.6600 UnitedWayPBC.org

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At the heart of United Way of Palm Beach County’s impact lies its volunteer-centered approach, exemplified by the Level Up Enhanced Mentoring Program. This community-supported initiative offers mentoring opportunities for at-risk teens ages 11 to 19 who are directly involved with or at risk of entering the juvenile justice or dependency system. Additionally, the nonprofit provides vital support to ALICE households that face financial hardship in affording fundamental necessities such as housing, food, childcare, health care and transportation.

The 561 Faces of Successful Women In PR Elizabeth Kelley Grace and Julie Mullen Co-Founders, The Buzz Agency

Julie Mullen and Elizabeth Kelley Grace recently celebrated two milestones in their public relations firm’s history. The co-founders of The Buzz Agency were named the largest PR firm in Palm Beach County, according to the South Florida Business Journal’s 2022 Book of Lists, and in July, they celebrated their 14th anniversary in business. Together, they work in harmony, one-on-one, with their consumer-facing and business-to-business nonprofit and corporate clients. They agree that their long-term success can be attributed to a number of factors, first and foremost being the relationships they forge with their clients and media partners. “We are proud to be a local firm continually growing and representing out-of-market clients,” says Julie. “These include Marriott International, Aviation Week Network and the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar,” Elizabeth adds.

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“We have established solid relationships, and we invest in a very strong team,” Elizabeth explains. “We have a deep bench, if you will,” she adds, citing a favorite sports reference. “Liz and I are very hands on with our clients and share them 50/50. We are intimately involved in every aspect of the relationship, and our clients appreciate working directly with the co-owners. We’re really blessed to have such a powerhouse team of professionals who work so well together,” Julie adds.

THE BUZZ AGENCY 855-525-2899 thebuzzagency.net

Elizabeth Kelley Grace

Julie Mullen

The 561 Face of Real Estate Ventures Sandra Amani

Coldwell Banker Delray With more than 20 years as a Realtor® and with multifaceted, hands-on experience with real estate redevelopment, investing, property management, concierge services and short-term rentals, Sandra Amani is building her own real estate empire—and generously guiding others to fulfill their dreams. From her hometown of Chicago, where she bought and redeveloped 29 multifamily units to provide people with safe and affordable housing, to South Florida’s top boutique real estate firms, Sandra found a new home at Coldwell Banker Delray more than a year ago, where she flourishes as a top producer specializing in luxury waterfront properties. Her insatiable entrepreneurial spirit and drive to expand her own real estate horizons is a bonus for her clients, who are often on the receiving end of her tireless efforts to find the most desirable properties. After scouring neighborhoods daily, she recently purchased seven properties in Delray Beach: six Airbnbs and a full development project slated to become a brand-new single-family home.

Sandra is hanging a new shingle, with a fullblown renovation of a historical property in Delray Beach. “These properties are a bit more challenging, but I love the excitement. I believe there’s a lot in the historic realm that you can invest in and still make money. It may take two months longer with all the rules and regulations involved, but it’s well worth it!”

COLDWELL BANKER DELRAY 773-551-7898 sandra.amani@cbrealty.com

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“I have been focusing on developers and investors, helping them duplicate what I have learned in the business. I encounter people all the time who are looking for vacation homes to earn added income. I can also manage the properties for them,” she assures.

The 561 Face of the Dress Whisperer Andrea Karabatsos, Owner Jenna Studio

When women walk into Jenna Studio in Town Center mall, they are amazed, inspired and perhaps a bit starstruck by the stunning array of special-occasion eveningwear and sought-after luxury gowns from around the world. Often armed with a lengthy wish list and a bit of emotional baggage about their body type, they are warmly welcomed by boutique owner Andrea Karabatsos. Within moments, they feel at ease sharing the details of their upcoming event, and what they envision themselves wearing. This is where Andrea’s 25 years of retail expertise in Canada—where she worked with top designers and the most discerning and sophisticated clientele—comes into play.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

“I make my clients look and feel gorgeous when they are able to surrender to what I see in them. That is my craft. I ask them to listen to me, try on what I give them and come out of the dressing room with an open mind. Moments later, they approach the podium, gaze into the mirror and the tears begin to flow. They are ecstatic at how beautiful they look and feel,” Andrea boasts. Clients of all sizes and body types can choose from the exquisite selections of Canadiandesigned dresses and gowns, all made from silk and crepe, fully-lined and boned, with impeccable construction. “I also do any size modification and any color choice, customizing their piece for their comfort and unique, statement-making appeal. … the Dress Whisperer can glam up every client, one gown at a time,” Andrea adds with a confident smile.

JENNA STUDIO 561-888-3378 Jennasstudio.com

The 561 Face of Fabulous Flavors Kim Weiss, Founder Spirits & Spice

With an innate business sense and strong legal background as a practicing lawyer, Kim Weiss found a new career path and life partner when she least expected it. A blind date turned into a whirlwind romance and marriage in a matter of weeks. While traveling with her husband in England, she wandered into an odd German shop laden with casks. With her curiosity piqued, she scoured the store and found herself inspired to pursue a franchise opportunity of her own. Within six years Kim became their No. 1 franchise partner in the world, out of about 300. In 2017 she negotiated out of her franchise agreement and in 2018 became her own upscale brand featuring her creative take on all things delicious, Spirits & Spice. Her sales increased 30 percent the first year alone. Her sixth store, located in Mizner Park, is open seven days a week and features high-quality, unique custom made liqueurs with insanely decadent flavor combinations, such as Bananas Foster and Dark Chocolate Coconut Cream, that she personally curates with distilleries. Wines and a vast selection of epicurean delights including custom spice blends she co-creates with her friend Cindy McClure of Dress the Drink add to the temptations that fill the beautifully stocked and appointed store. “Whatever it is we carry, it’s going to be the best of what it is,” Kim explains. Customers are invited to taste their liqueur selection before purchase, and often buy for themselves and as gifts. Selections can be made into customized baskets with an assortment of delightful combinations sure to please. Spirits & Spice pays homage to Kim’s “daddy,” who always encouraged her to explore and savor good food and spirits. It’s a journey they enjoyed together— and one she offers every customer who walks in.

SPIRITS & SPICE 888-807-7474, ext. 8 SpiritsandSpice.com

The 561 Face of The Upscale Cigar Lounge Experience Ronnie & Debralyn Belletieri, Owners Strikes Cigar Lounge

Ronnie Belletieri had been in the bowling business for years. After his lease expired and COVID emptied his bowling center (also named Strikes), he decided it was time to retire. His plans soon went up in smoke when his wife and business partner, Debralyn, convinced him that he needed to find something else to do. In August, 2021 Ronnie bought a local cigar lounge he had frequented for years and turned it into the ultimate sophisticated retreat for fine cigars, spirits and friends. Paying homage to his former business, he named it Strikes Cigar Lounge, located in Royal Palm Place. “We just completed more renovations, bought new furniture, and continue to make Strikes an upscale lounge where cigar smokers and non-smokers frequent daily; they feel right at home here,” he says. “We have plenty of patio seating for those who enjoy the outdoor experience.” Open 365 days a year, Strikes has become a haven for cigar aficionados and newbies alike. With more than 2,000 cigars nestled in the humidor, and wine, beer, and spirits as the perfect accompaniment, it’s a simple recipe for pleasure. There is live music on the weekend, and in the late hours you will find the lounge brimming with clients and fragrant billows of smoke.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Ladies Night is on Wednesdays, and often there are pairing events sponsored by a local cigar maker who shares their suggestions with the loyal following. “Please come and visit us at 514 Via de Palmas in Boca Raton,” says Debralyn.

STRIKES CIGAR LOUNGE 561-419-8827 strikescigarlounge.com

the 561 Faces of Ultra-Luxury Real Estate Jim Pappas and Paul Bidva Lang Realty

Boasting more than 35 years of combined experience and selling thousands of homes, Jim Pappas and Paul Bidva are the leaders of ultra-luxury real estate in Palm Beach County. They are the epitome of success, proven by their Diamond Star ranking under Lang Realty, signifying their unmatched sales in the market. Their keen attention is set on Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Highland Beach, and surrounding neighborhoods. Together, the dynamic duo weaves its distinctive strengths and personalities to help homeowners find their dream homes. Their focus is to craft tailored experiences for every buyer they meet. “We build relationships with our clients,” explains Pappas, underlining their commitment to genuine partnerships. Their clientele encompasses everyone from pro tennis stars to first-time buyers alike, a testament to their universal appeal.

Their devotion to client-centric service emerges as their defining trait. “Paul and I are very tenacious,” says Pappas. “We’ll keep at it until we get a solid agreement.” Their unwavering dedication ensures that clients’ visions evolve into tangible reality.

LANG REALTY 717.314.4099 561.900.8602 pappasbidva.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The agents’ commitment to a “white-glove” service is apparent from the first interaction. They never miss an appointment and always keep their clients updated, establishing a standard of reliability. While buying a home can be likened to a roller coaster ride, Bidva and Pappas offer supportive guidance through the highs and lows of the process.

The 561 Face of Taxes and Retirement Decisions Elizabeth M. Bennett, MBA

Principal and Certified Financial Planner™ Intercoastal Wealth Planning As the holiday season is upon us, tax time isn’t necessarily on your mind right now. But, if you are approaching retirement age, do yourself a favor and consult with your CFP® to understand the taxes that you may be incurring as you are approaching distribution phase of your financial assets,” advises Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Financial Fiduciary, Elizabeth Bennett. “When you think about retiring and believe that you’re going to be in a lower tax rate, your tax rate could actually be higher, which in turn increases IRMAA. However, the amount that you pay for Medicare is really going to be based on your adjusted gross income that you reported to the IRS two years prior; since we’re in 2023, it’s going to be based off of your 2021 tax return,” Bennett explains. “IRMAA (income-related monthly adjustment amount) is the actual payment that is going to be taken from your Social Security.” Bennett cautions that if you’re still working and have additional income, your Medicare IRMAA can go from $170.10 to $587.30, based upon your tax bracket. “When you begin creating an income stream from your assets in the distribution phase of your retirement, and you’re starting to take money from your investments, having an after-tax account and a pre-tax account are very important. You want to have the option of where to take your money from, and how it is taxed, so that it doesn’t push you into another tax bracket, causing an avalanche of additional increases that you weren’t expecting,” says Bennett. “I’m here to guide you through those important financial decisions.”

JASON NUTTLE

INTERCOASTAL WEALTH PLANNING 561.210.7339 intercoastalwealth.com “Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory, Insurance, and Tax Services offered through Bay Financial Planning and Tax Services, DBA Intercoastal Wealth Planning LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge and Bay Financial Planning and Tax Services, LLC are not affiliated.

The 561 Faces of The Women Making an Impact Kimberly Boldt Jeannine Morris

Impact 100 Palm Beach County Kimberly Boldt and Jeannine Morris are not only close friends and neighbors, but also professionals and copresidents of Impact 100 Palm Beach County. They lead an organization of more than 800 women who come together each year to change our community for the better. This volunteer, women-led 501(c)(3) organization connects, engages and inspires women to improve our community by collectively funding multiple $100,000 grants to local nonprofits. “I love being part of an organization that is so committed to reinvesting in our community. Serving with other women to uphold Impact 100’s mission motivates me. It’s very rewarding to integrate my professional and personal lives to improve the community,” says Jeannine, who serves on several charitable boards, was the national sales director for Bank of New York on Wall Street, and presently is a principal of The Morris Group at Lang Realty, a team in the top 1 percent at the firm. Each woman contributes $1,000 to fund grants in five focus areas: Art, Culture & Historic Preservation; Education; Environment & Animal Welfare; Health & Wellness; and Family. Since Impact 100’s inception in 2011, more than $6 million has been awarded to local nonprofits, including 56 $100,000 grants and an additional 43 merit grants.

“We believe that women are uniquely suited to do the job that we’re doing in our community. We have an aspirational goal to award $1 million a year in grant funding with 1,000 women members. We’ll certainly celebrate when we reach this milestone,” says Kimberly.

IMPACT 100 PALM BEACH COUNTY 561-336-4623 Impact100pbc.org

Jeannine Morris

Kimberly Boldt

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Kimberly Boldt has been a lawyer since 1992 and boardcertified in civil appeals since 1998. She is a named partner at Ratzan, Weissman & Boldt, a Miami law firm.

The 561 Face of Personalized Education Dr. Peter A. Eden President, Landmark College

Landmark College is a unique, entrepreneurial college tailored for students with learning differences like dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or executive function challenges. Since its founding in 1985, the college has pioneered and perfected an educational model centered on individual strengths, equipping students with tools for success in their personal and academic pursuits. Leading the institution for more than 11 years, President Peter A. Eden, Ph.D., has overseen dramatic programmatic expansion and growth in residential and LC Online enrollment. “We are simultaneously a traditional and a specialty college, serving students from high school, into college, and even past college,” he says, highlighting the intentional breadth of collegelevel academic and student life offerings. Landmark provides personalized educational and social experiences, including summer and bridge-year programming and associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. LC Online, designed for high school, transition-year and college students, as well as educators, delivers the Landmark approach in a highly accessible modality. Educators and professionals can earn a graduate-level certificate in neurodiversity and learning differences.

VALERIE COX

At the core of Landmark College is inclusivity for all students with learning differences. Whether transitioning from high school or pursuing studies in face-to-face and online formats, Landmark College is the ideal option for those seeking tailored support, which leads to academic and social skills success.

LANDMARK COLLEGE 802.387.6718 landmark.edu

The 561 Face of Life-Changing Hair Restoration DR. ALAN J. BAUMAN

Founder, CEO and Medical Director of Bauman Medical Dr. Alan J. Bauman is a passionate pioneer in the field of hair restoration and one of only 200 physicians worldwide to achieve certification from the American and International Board of Hair Restoration Surgery. At Bauman Medical in Boca Raton, Dr. Bauman and his dedicated team provide state-of-the-art procedures including follicular unit extraction (FUE), a minimally invasive hair transplant technique that doesn’t leave telltale linear scars and allows patients to recover quickly. He also offers all-natural and effective drug-free restorative solutions including PRP, PDOgroTM, topical exosome therapy and low-level laser light therapy. Early on during his surgical residency in New York, Bauman met a patient who said that his hair transplant had not only transformed the way he looked, but entirely changed his life, both socially and professionally. “I was blown away by the 100-percent natural looking appearance and the power of hair. I wanted to learn more,” said Bauman. With more than 25 years of expertise as a boardcertified Hair Restoration Physician, Bauman has indeed learned more, changing the lives of more than 33,000 patients he has treated. “At Bauman Medical, our full-time dedicated team has been able to maintain our reputation of excellence, attracting men and women patients worldwide who seek our services, and they are thrilled with their results. Pioneering new techniques and sticking to our credo of offering the most advanced treatments and the ultimate hair restoration experience have been the keys to our success,” says Bauman.

BAUMAN MEDICAL 561.394.0024 baumanmedical.com

JASON NUTTLE

He adds, “My patients’ happiness is the part of my profession I enjoy the most.”

The 561 Face of Wealth Solutions Brittany Wright, LPL Financial Advisor Pence Financial Group

Brittany Wright is a financial advisor with Pence Financial Group, a prestigious wealth management firm supported by LPL Financial, the largest independent broker-dealer in the nation.* She is deeply attuned to her clients’ goals and values and becomes completely immersed in her clients’ world, thoroughly getting to know each of them and their goals. “We strive to deliver comprehensive strategies our clients are interested in. Bringing together resources from across the firm, paired with our ability to invest using a disciplined approach, is what makes us who we are,” says Brittany. Brittany and her team of industry specialists collaborate and curate solutions for every aspect of a client’s total wealth. “We are invested in you. It’s not just one advisor, it’s an entire task force. We customize strategies and highlight things that may blindside clients later,” she explains. Brittany understands the importance of planning for the unexpected, after losing her mother. “My mother was in a tragic accident that took her life, and she didn’t have her estate in order. My experience with settling her estate has been so dreadful—I don’t want my clients to experience that.” Brittany is passionate about helping others through major life transitions and strives to protect her clients from similar hardships.

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Brittany’s team has the experience to help you navigate the financial complexity and stress of life’s challenges, including death of a spouse, divorce, blended families, retirement, sale of a business, and long-term-care needs. “We strive to build more than your wealth. We seek solutions for you.”

PENCE FINANCIAL GROUP 561-680-2636 pence.financial/bocaraton Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. *As reported by Financial Planning magazine, 1996-2022, based on total revenue.

The 561 Face of Non-profit Strategy Rachel Pappert Docekal, MBA, Ed.D. CEO, Hanley Foundation

After serving as CEO of Hanley Foundation from 2010-2014, Rachel Pappert Docekal reassumed the role of Chief Executive Officer in March of this year, overseeing board and donor relations while creating strategies to support Hanley’s life-saving programs and expansion initiatives. Hanley Foundation’s mission is to eliminate addiction through prevention, advocacy, treatment, and recovery support. “My superpower is strategy,” Docekal explains. “I have an MBA, and my doctorate is in Organizational Leadership, but what drives me is the ability to serve and have a positive impact. For the better part of my career, I have worked for nonprofit organizations. I bring a business approach to critical, missionbased work.”

HANLEY FOUNDATION 561-268-2355 hanleyfoundation.org

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“At Hanley, we educate, change minds and save lives. Our leadership team is focused on what is happening with young people’s mental health locally, statewide and nationally. Our experts work with nearly 100,000 students, parents and teachers each year focusing on youth mental health and substance use disorder prevention. Our goal is to help as many young people as possible, teaching them to cope with life’s challenges in a way that is productive, and helps them to work through the problem, not create a secondary issue.”

The 561 Face of Real Estate Matchmaking Aileen Grossmann Sole Broker, Lotus Realty

Aileen Grossmann has brought her high-energy personality and keen attention to detail to the real estate industry for more than 25 years. She’s the sole broker of Lotus Realty, assisting first-time home purchasers and repeat clients in discovering their forever homes. Grossmann has garnered a reputation for creating real estate experiences with personal guidance and unwavering support. From a $250K apartment to a $25 million luxury property, Grossmann adeptly navigates all aspects of the market— whether it involves buying, selling or renting— while consistently treating everyone with the same care and attention. A self-described “matchmaker,” Grossmann invests ample time in understanding each buyer’s preferences. She’s not hesitant to think creatively, introducing options that may not have initially been on their radar. “A lot of people end up purchasing a property they never originally considered,” she says.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Aside from assisting clients with their purchases, Grossmann extends her role to that of a trusted confidant, cherishing each new relationship she cultivates. She goes above and beyond to be an authoritative resource for anyone with questions surrounding the home-buying or selling process, from contracts to contractors to insurance. “My commitment is 100 percent,” she says. “I will stay up until 2 in the morning if that’s what it takes to find the right match for you.”

LOTUS REALTY 917.750.7580 lotusrealtyfl.com

The 561 Face of Total Skin Care ROBERT S. BADER, MD Founder of RSB Dermatology

Dr. Robert Bader’s dermatology and cosmetic surgical practice, RSB Dermatology in Deerfield Beach, offers comprehensive skin, hair and nail treatments that include Mohs’ micrographic surgery, reconstructive surgery and dermatologic plastic surgery. Dr. Bader takes great pride in his versatile Ivy League training, board-certified expertise and the personal connection he forges with his patients. Dr. Bader graduated from The George Washington University School of Medicine Health Sciences with Distinction and is fellowship trained in Mohs’ and Dermatologic Plastic Surgery from Affiliated Dermatology, a program affiliated with Columbia University. “Along with comprehensive, full scope dermatologic care, I am able to perform both Mohs surgery and the reconstruction in my office during one appointment, saving my patients time, travel, and the expense of dealing with different specialists and separate cost the insurance co-pays, says Dr. Bader Among the many enhancing skin treatments patients request in his practice, Bader provides Morpheus and the 1540 Fractional Laser, a popular non-ablative laser resurfacing treatment that heats columns of skin to reduce wrinkles, improve stretch marks, and/or improve scars with virtually no downtime. “As this is less aggressive than its ablative CO2 counterpart, most patients will require three to six treatment sessions to achieve their desired results. Most often these sessions are spaced four to six weeks apart,” Bader explains.

RSB DERMATOLOGY, INC. 954.421.3200 drbader.com

AARON BRISTOL

“The results look fabulous and natural, and most patients are thrilled,” he adds. Many patients with unwanted fat deposits can now have them melted away safely with TruSculpt-iD. By heating the skin, fat cells are damaged, resulting in up to a 24-percent reduction and tightening of the skin in only 15 minutes without any downtime. Almost any area on the body can be treated.

The 561 Face of Remote Bilingual Staffing Sergio Calderon, CEO VA Scaler

In law and health care, new ideas can come from surprising places. Sergio Calderon, a lawyer with big plans, decided to get help for his legal practice by creating VA Scaler (Virtual Assistant Scaler). This special company could change how American doctors and lawyers find workers. Sergio’s’ company, VA scaler, helps U.S. doctors and lawyers hire bilingual, hard-working and motivated staff to increase productivity by expanding their workforce. Staying true to his roots, Sergio began by hiring bilingual workers in South America to handle tasks such as answering phones, updating databases and calling clients on the status of their cases. “The people that we hire overseas are very hard workers, and many have experience in customer service or medical and legal experience. We take care of the hiring, HR and payroll. We normally review 20-30 resumes to hire that one special person,” he adds. Sergio explains that the main benefit of VA Scaler is that labor costs overseas are very affordable compared to those costs in the U.S. You are basically paying less for someone who will do the same job.

DENIS VIRGUETTI

“We know what law firms and medical practices need from employees. Most importantly, since these practices involve very sensitive information, we have a lot of systems in place to prevent data breaches,” Sergio assures.

VA SCALER 800-561-0375 VAscaler.com

The 561 Face of Alzheimer’s Prevention and Treatment Paayal K. Patel, MD

Brain Matters Research “In this day and age, we’re able to target patients with genetic risk factors or early evidence of Alzheimer’s disease, and try to either delay or prevent it completely,” says Neurologist Dr. Paayal Patel of Brain Matters Research. “We don’t have a way to reverse what’s already happened in the brain, because we don’t have a cure just yet, but two new FDA-approved medications are helping to either stabilize or reduce the rate of decline both cognitively and functionally,” she says optimistically.

Unlike at most medical offices, patients at Brain Matters have the option for a complimentary memory screening called Know in 90, a program where patients can be evaluated, as long as they’re open to the prospect of treatment through research and to learning more about what health treatments are available. This involves basic cognitive testing, and meeting with all the staff to provide basic history about cognitive changes they’ve been experiencing, or concerns loved ones have observed in terms of cognitive functional decline. “Then they get to meet with myself or Dr. Brody to discuss the treatment options. Above all, our patients’ safety is our main concern,” Dr. Patel emphasizes.

BRAIN MATTERS RESEARCH 561-374-8461 brainmattersresearch.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

“We are also conducting a new research study that is giving people living with Alzheimer’s disease a different treatment option. The HOPE Study is investigating the capability of a new, wearable headset device to potentially slow the progression of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, and people can participate in the study from the comfort of their own home.”

The 561 Face of Training for Independence and Success Trina Chin Cheong

Director of Career Development & Financial Assistance Boca Helping Hands Trina Chin Cheong left the YMCA of Palm Beach County to establish a job training program at Boca Helping Hands, a nonprofit organization best known for helping foodinsecure individuals and families. Overseeing the Career Development and Financial Assistance departments for the last nine years, her plate has been full. “We’ve added 11 different job training programs and many wrap-around support services to help clients gain employment or find better-paying jobs,” says Trina. “We individually assess each applicant, identifying their need and motivation to complete the program. We cover eligible students’ training costs at accredited schools, pair them with volunteer mentors, help them prepare for certification exams and assist graduates with job searches.” “It’s a ‘train, certify and employ’ concept,” she says. “Our ultimate objective is to improve their quality of life and build financial sustainability.” Boca Helping Hands partners with local vocational schools including Palm Beach State College, Atlantic Technical College and ABC Institute, a trade school offering apprenticeships.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Trina also oversees the Boca Helping Hands Resource Center, providing short-term financial and childcare assistance while looking for long-term solutions for her clients. Additionally, Trina helps support uninsured individuals in Palm Beach County by helping them gain access to health care, partnering with Genesis Community Health and FAU Nursing School clinics. “I believe change is a collective effort, and we must all do our part to lead by example. I live every day thinking, ‘If I could make a difference in just one person’s life, it’s one step forward.”

BOCA HELPING HANDS 561-417-0913 BocaHelpingHands.org

the 561 Face of Legacy Country Clubs Boca Grove

Jennifer M. Jolly, General Manager/COO Nestled in Boca Raton, the boutiquestyle Boca Grove exudes a rich history and camaraderie. With a legacy dating back to the 1980s, it offers an extensive array of amenities, ensuring that residents never have to leave. Members can enjoy everything from pickleball, tennis courts and a state-of-the-art fitness center to culinary options and a soon-to-be-completed padel court. General Manager Jennifer M. Jolly oversees the community and all 444 families on the property. Boca Grove boasts an illustrious golf history that blends tradition with modernity. Once hosting the inaugural Senior Classic—graced by golf legends Arnold Palmer and Gary Player, who made Boca Grove his first American home—the club continues to grow the game by welcoming events like the U.S. Junior Amateur qualifier and utilizing innovative Toptracer Range technology. Setting this course apart is a signature no-tee time policy that allows members to tee off within minutes of deciding to play. “It’s all about the member’s experience,” shares Jolly.

BOCA GROVE 561.487.5300 bocagrove.org

AARON BRISTOL

The club’s charm emanates from its diverse community, spanning generations. This togetherness led to the “Boca Grove Cares” initiative, reborn during the pandemic as a staff-driven project. Today, it unites members and staff to forge deep connections and support charitable causes through sweat equity. As Boca Grove continues to evolve, its core values remain unchanged: fostering tradition, unity and a vibrant neighborhood spirit.

The 561 Face of More than a Ride, An Experience A1A Global

Rick Versace, President & CEO President and CEO Rick Versace leads the luxury ground transportation company A1A Global in its unwavering commitment to clientele. Since 1996, A1A Global has distinguished itself by going beyond transportation, crafting an experience renowned for its top-rated and reliable service. Versace started franchising A1A in 2014, and with nearly 100 franchises in operation, he is now focusing on expanding across the country. His confidence in providing on-time, every-time service is reflected in A1A’s 200-percent on-time service guarantee. “No other limo company in the world has that kind of guarantee,” says Versace. No matter the destination, A1A’s exceptional chauffeurs ensure punctuality and a smooth journey, making it the preferred choice, even among visiting celebrities. A1A’s versatile fleet includes luxury sedans, SUVs, Mercedes-Benz sprinter vans and fullsize motor coaches.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

To stay at the forefront of the latest technology, Versace recently introduced “Allie,” an AI-driven chatbot that allows customers to book or gather information online. “Allie is so lifelike, people call the office asking to speak with her,” he says. In addition to providing clients with a memorable experience, Versace takes pride in supporting the community. He’s active with the Chamber of Commerce, Boca Helping Hands and the George Snow Scholarship Fund. This September, Versace will be one of the dancers in Boca’s Ballroom Battle to support education. “A1A gives Palm Beach County teachers 50 percent off their rides during August, so when they asked me to dance to raise money for scholarships, I was all in,” he says.

A1A GLOBAL 561.622.2222 A1ALimo.com

The 561 Faces of Fine Cabinetry Creations Jose Barni, Owner & Lead Designer Martin Villalba, Designer

C.A.C. Custom Artisan Cabinetry Family-owned and -operated since 1985, C.A.C. Custom Artisan Cabinetry has been designing and building high-end cabinetry to define the unique lifestyle of each client’s home. “We bring in a variety of design philosophies into our cabinetry,” says Lead Designer and Owner Jose Barni. “We draw inspiration from architecture, nature and from industrial design, and then bring those elements in to stand the test of time with every piece we make.” Designer Martin Villalba, drawing from his architectural education, sees the design process as a collaborative effort. “It’s between us and the client; it’s a relationship. We get their input to see what they like, and we help them bring their visions to life beautifully, and meticulously, with attention to space and functionality.” Utilizing state-of-the-art machinery and technology, top-quality hardware and materials only manufactured in the United States and Europe, each design is created and built from scratch in C.A.C.’s onsite production facilities on Glades Road. A beautiful showroom next door provides inspiration for eager clients to begin the process of enhancing their homes with the exquisite and endless possibilities.

“We believe in good design, and that requires a lot of extra work. Our great team and infrastructure at C.A.C. translates into the actual finished designs that take a lot of time and care,” Barni adds.

C.A.C. CUSTOM ARTISAN CABINETRY 561-361-5111 customartisancabinetry.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

From entertainment centers to home offices, bars to kitchens, bedrooms to baths, every custom piece is masterfully manufactured, boasting craftsmanship precision down to 1/10 mm.

The 561 Face of Safe Driving Schools Shekinah One Driving School and Traffic Inc.

Anatine Dorvilier, Co-Owner/HR Manager Amid Florida’s bustling traffic, Shekinah One Driving School and Traffic Inc. emerges as a driving school and a certified testing center offering convenience and accessibility. Founded in 2018 by Louissaint and Anatine Dorvilier, the school’s mission transcends ordinary instruction; it aims to nurture responsible drivers, treating every student like its own child. The school’s unique blend of teaching and testing has made it a reliable resource for Florida residents seeking driver education. Unlike the traditional DMV experience, this Boynton Beach-based school requires no appointments for learner permits and driving tests and provides free pick-up and drop-off to students within a 20-minute radius. The school goes beyond convenience—it offers tests and lessons in multiple languages, including English, Spanish and Creole. Specialized instruction is also available to accommodate individuals with different learning needs.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The heart of Shekinah One Driving School lies in its instructors, who possess patience and a wealth of experience. The school’s insured cars are equipped with dual controls, allowing instructors and students to maintain command during lessons. It’s a comprehensive approach, ensuring each student becomes a confident, responsible driver.

SHEKINAH ONE DRIVING SCHOOL AND TRAFFIC INC. 561.633.3087 shekinahdriving.com Louissaint Dorvilier

Anatine Dorvilier

The 561 Face of Compassionate Nursing Care Boca Nursing Services, Inc.

Rose Glamoclija, RN When the quality of life you’ve known is compromised by illness, you want the highest caliber of care. And since none of us know when that time will come and impact our lives, we are often overwhelmed when it does. At times like these, you need to rely on the comfort and connection to people who will be there for you when you need it most. Rose Glamoclija, RN, the founder and Administrator of Boca Nursing Services, and a Registered Nurse for more than 30 years understands. She knows the chemistry between caregivers and patients is paramount, especially when patients are vulnerable and out of their element. With compassion, and concern for every person they serve in the surrounding four counties, Rose provides guidance and resources for families needing in-home support and nursing care. Patients are treated with the highest level of respect for their rights, personal beliefs, and privacy.

BOCA NURSING SERVICES, INC. Boca Raton Palm Beach 561-347-7566 561-833-3430 bocanursing.com

AARON BRISTOL

Rose oversees the entire operation and personally reviews the qualifications and experience prior to selecting each Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, Certified Nursing Assistant, Home Health Aide, Live-in and Therapist for hire, along with continuous supervision by her and the Nursing Department. The concierge private duty nursing care is made available in the comfort of home, a hospital room, during facility stays and while residing at assisted living or rehabilitation facilities. Rose prides herself on the community support she receives and the generations of patients who recommend her services to their friends and family, year after year.

Everything you wanted to know about women’s

hair loss and hair thinning ...and were afraid to ask. Get answers to all your questions about hair loss/thinning – and how to find the right solution for you – from New York’s premier women’s hair loss expert. Q. What causes women’s hair loss/thinning? Q. How do autoimmune and other disorders impact hair? Meet Elline Surianello, hair loss/hair thinning expert of LeMetric Hair Design Studio, headquartered in New York City, now expanding services in the greater Boca Raton area. LeMetric has been designing and manufacturing custom made hair replacement options for women since 1992.

Q. What options are there to have the hair I always dreamed of? Q. What is the right solution for me?

Sunday, December 3, 2023 @ 1pm Sunday, January 6, 2024 @ 1pm 7349 Shellridge Terrace Lakeworth, FL Seating is limited. Reserve your spot today by emailing:

elline@lemetric.com

www.LeMetric.com

Live Life on the Edge

At Harbour’s Edge, every day is an adventure in the making. Built directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, our South Florida Oasis offers endless opportunities to explore, connect and create. So go to the theater, enjoy a wine tasting, or simply soak up the sun.

SNF ID #1195096

Chart your own course by calling 561.816.3474 or visiting harboursedge.com. 401 East Linton Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL 33483

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE | SKILLED NURSING | REHABILITATION

Casual Elegance... For Your Outdoor Living

Specializing in One of The Best Selections of Quality Name Brand Furniture With Low Prices 7355 Sample Rd. Coral Springs

11268 Legacy Ave. Palm Beach Gardens

1.4 miles west of 441/State Road 7

Legacy Place Shopping Center

954.752.0161

561.776.9980

Open Mon-Sat 10AM - 5:30PM • Sunday Noon to 5PM

of Coral Springs & The Palm Beaches Owner Operated Since 1981

www.patioshoppes.com

Proudly Supporting Jewish Family Services

Here then. Here now.

Founded in 1919, Plastridge Insurance Agency has served the South Florida community with a commitment to integrity and trust as a family business providing commercial and personal insurance for over 104 years. We take pride in what we do, provide superior customer service, and allow our experienced agents to effectively compare rates and coverage to ensure our clients receive the most competitive pricing and the quality protection they deserve. We’re always here when you need us. BUSINESS | PROPERTY | BENEFITS | HOME | AUTO

Delray Beach I Boca Raton Palm Beach Gardens I Stuart T 561.276.5221 I W plastridge.com

Get into the spirit of the season …

20th Annual Gingerbread Holiday Concert Presented by the Friends of the Conservatory of Music Become a sponsor! Gold Sponsorship $2,500 ($2,030 is tax-deductible) Parents, grandparents and kids of all ages are invited to this family-friendly concert featuring Lynn University’s Philharmonia with Dean Jon Robertson conducting. Co-chairs Isabelle Paul and Donna Zoley. Sponsored by Boca magazine, this pops concert raises funds for scholarships for talented student musicians. Your support makes it possible for many of our students to graduate to positions with renowned orchestras.

Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023 Pre-show holiday activities begin at 2 p.m. Concert begins at 3 p.m. Lynn University 3601 N. Military Trail Boca Raton, FL 33431

• 12 preferred seats • Complimentary valet parking • Champagne reception • Name in the program Silver Sponsorship $1,500 ($1,150 is tax-deductible) • 10 seats • Complimentary valet parking • Champagne reception • Name in the program Reserve your sponsorship online: give.lynn.edu/support-gingerbread

Tickets: $35 + 1 561-237-7745 | lmiller@lynn.edu +1 561-237-9000 | lynn.edu/gingerbread

Exclusive magazine sponsor

Special Event

One Night Only

Artistic Directors: Dan Guin & Jane Tyree

Boca Ballet Theatre’s productionof the

Elizabeth H. Dudley presents

The Nutcracker

STARS OF AMERICAN BALLET

Boca Ballet Theatre continues to captivate its audiences with its beloved version of this holiday classic. Clara’s dream unfolds as the Nutcracker Prince, Mouse King and Sugar Plum Fairy all come to life in the sparkle of Co-Artistic Director Dan Guin’s artistic vision.

Daniel Ulbricht, New York City Ballet principal dancer and founder of Stars of American Ballet, brings his troupe to join forces with Boca Ballet Theatre to present a dynamic concert showcasing iconic works of yesterday and today, highlighting a spectrum of different styles of music and dance.

Edith & Martin Stein Family Foundation

Nov. 24, 2023 at 7:30pm Nov. 25, 2023 at 2:00pm & 7:30pm Nov. 26, 2023 at 2:00pm

Gingerbread Ball

Let your little ones meet Clara, Sugar Plum Fairy, and other magical characters onstage at the post matinee children’s party. Tickets sold separately

in concert with Boca Ballet Theatre

January 7, 2024 at 3:00pm

following the performance

“A Starry Night” presents

post-performance Gala Dinner at The Boca Raton

2023-2024 Season of Dance Sponsored by The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation

For Tickets

561.995.0709 | bocaballet.org Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation Irvin Stern Foundation

Chastain Charitable Foundation The Kettering Family Foundation

Photo credits: Silvia Pangaro, Skye Schmidt Photography

Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center • Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center Nina & Martin Rosenzweig West Boca Theatre Company

NOV 29 - DEC 10

JAN 3-20

FEB 4-24

MAR 13-24

APR 2-3

Purchase tickets at 561-922-8287 or levisjcc.org/theater Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center • Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center • Toby & Leon Cooperman Campus 21050 95th Avenue S., Boca Raton, FL 33428 • Ph 561-558-2520 • levisjcc.org/sandler

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AARON BRISTOL

Grilled octopus from the Hampton Social

T H E H A M P TO N S O C I A L R E V I E W TA K I O M A K A S E R E V I E W D I S COV E R I E S TA B L E TA L K

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E AT & D R I N K

REVIEW

The Hampton Social 40 N.E. Seventh Ave., Delray Beach; 561/404-1155

W Top, crispy quesadilla; bottom, lobster roll

IF YOU GO PARKING: Parking lot HOURS: Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Fri., 11 a.m.–1 a.m., Sat., 10 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.–10 p.m. PRICES: $9–$39 WEBSITE: thehamptonsocial.com

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hen I first heard that Delray was getting a new restaurant called The Hampton Social earlier this year, I must admit its “rosé all day” lifestyle conjured a trendy bar with mediocre food that one would ingest for the sake of not getting terribly tipsy on the blush wine. I get it: Rosé is cherished for being a crisp, fresh, easy-drinking sip. And we’ve all heard the catchy sayings (“you had me at rosé,” anyone?) that have joined its rise in popularity. But let me tell you, The Hampton Social doesn’t just slay its rosé; its food is equally as tempting. Exuding major casual-coastal vibes, The Hampton Social does a standout job of incorporating its aesthetic into not just its décor but also its menu, from its seafood-centric dishes to its droll cocktail names like the vodka-forward I Like It a Yacht and spicy Sunburnt Margarita. Its seafaring design is more Insta-worthy than tired nautical, with bright floral walls and chic herringbone ceilings sharing the space with rope detailing and glowing shell chandeliers. The rosé menu boasts about 10 options (including The Hampton Social’s own namesake wine) alongside other wines by the glass and bottle, cocktails, zero-proof drinks (pro tip: you can add alcohol to any of these too) and beer. We ordered two appetizers, a handheld and an entrée to share. I was impressed by how quickly the food came out but was taken aback when it all hit the table at the same time. The waiter recommended the grilled octopus ($24) that he assured us would not be chewy or slimy, and it certainly was not. It was tender,

herbaceous, and accompanied by a mixture of capers, pistachios and oven-roasted potatoes. It’s topped with greens tossed in a vinaigrette, adding a nice acidity to the dish. The second appetizer, the crispy quesadilla ($16), was a unique take on a dish I’ve seen hundreds of times on menus. It was a welcome surprise. Creamy goat cheese is slathered on one crispy tortilla and topped with honey and balsamic vinegar for that balance of sweet and zingy before it’s topped with another crispy tortilla and a bit of tart arugula. I couldn’t go to a New England-inspired restaurant without trying the lobster roll ($34), offered in both Manhattan (I always called it Connecticut, but nonetheless, it’s warm and buttery) or Maine (chilled and creamy) styles. I opted for the cool lobster. It’s served on a buttery brioche that could not have been more perfect—toasted but not too hard, and warm but not too hot. The tender meat is tossed in a juicy mayoand-parsley mix and hits it out of the park. As we were enjoying the spicy pipette pasta ($24), which delivered on its name, the manager came by to check on us—a noteworthy and appreciated touch. The Calabrian peppers certainly offer an after-kick to the dish, but the creaminess of the vodka sauce doesn’t let it linger or destroy your palate. We cooled down with a fruit-forward and refreshing blueberry bread pudding ($15) that provided a minty and citrusy finale to an overall relaxed and enjoyable meal that made me wish it was a rosé kind of day every day.

AARON BRISTOL

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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Celebrating our 40th year serving Authentic Italian Cuisine 6 7 5 0 N o r t h F e d e r a l H i g h w a y, B o c a R a t o n

561-997-7373 w w w. a r t u r o s r e s tau r a n t. c o m

E AT & D R I N K

Selections (which vary nightly) from Taki Omakase

REVIEW

Taki Omakase

632 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach; 561/759-7362

IF YOU GO PARKING: Street parking HOURS: Sun.–Thurs., 6–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 5–11 p.m. PRICE: $160/person WEBSITE: takiomakase.com

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makase has swept into South Florida like our rising tide. As with most food trends, it has trickled down from main markets like Los Angeles and New York City, slowly making the journey south, and now it’s here to stay. It actually made its way stateside from Japan, similar to izakaya (think Eric Baker’s AlleyCat), but where izakaya is rooted in casualness, omakase is its pretentious older sibling with impeccable taste. So let us break it down for you. Omakase loosely translates to “I’ll leave it up to you,”so you yield your ability to choose directly to the chef. It’s both liberating and thrilling not to make any decisions while also knowing that a wizard of a chef will create a surprise (mainly sushi) tasting menu just for you. Next, you need to know that it’s only counter seating. To facilitate an intimate setting, the counter seats 12-16 guests. And because there are set seating times, everyone is served simultaneously, so be on time. Finally, be prepared for an omakase experience’s cost. While yes, in recent years there have been new concepts that offer less pricy options, most omakase can run in the hundreds per person or even thousands for a couple who chooses a sake or wine pairing option. Lucky for us, Taki Omakase, a shining example of omakase done right, has opened not one but two locations in our community. Its Delray Beach restaurant on East Atlantic opened earlier this year, followed by the Boca Raton space on Federal Highway several months later. The 18-course tasting menu in Delray is $160 per person; in Boca, 20 courses run $200 per person. And that excludes beverages, tax and gratuity.

So, let me answer the question on everyone’s mind— is it really worth it? Absolutely! Well, with one caveat: You don’t necessarily need to be a sushi connoisseur, but you must enthusiastically love eating raw fish. If you don’t, save your pennies. Most of the dishes are either sashimi, nigiri or sushi with beef lightly sprinkled in, but with that said, they can accommodate any food allergies or restrictions. So, if you do pine for the delicacies of the sea, buckle in and get ready for these talented chefs to guide you through a culinary journey unlike anything else. Taki Omakase prides itself on importing fish, meat and seasonal ingredients from Japan that arrive daily. Every night is different, so I won’t go into detail about my dinner. However, I will say that processed wasabi was replaced here with the actual root grated onto our plate, caviar was spooned onto our otoro tuna, buttery ora king salmon melted in my mouth, silky chutoro was sprinkled with gold flakes, and Wagyu was tastefully presented before it was seared and topped with shaved foie gras and a black truffle puree. To say that each dish is expertly crafted with sublime ingredients is an understatement. But what makes Taki Omakase extra special is its focus on its rich fare alongside the hospitable ambience created for each diner. Every detail—from the oshibori, or moist towelette, that was given to us between dishes (yes, you’re encouraged to grab the fish with your fingers) to the server instantly replacing my plate when I spilled a grain of rice—made us feel fêted. My advice: Life’s full of reasons to celebrate, so pick one and head to Taki Omakase for a memorable feast.

AARON BRISTOL

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

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xecutive Chef / Restauranteur Steven Botta has added the former Kathy’s Gazebo to his portfolio of high end restaurants. The 40 year tradition of excellence continues in a newly reimagined and newly renovated space. The name and decor may have changed but the menu has all the old menu favorites with some exciting new ones which will delight the palate. From the moment you arrive you will quickly realize that you have entered a restaurant where old world service is still the norm rather than the exception. A throwback to the days when where guests become family and a place to make new memories while reminiscing about past ones. Come join us and see what all the excitement is about. We look forward to seeing you. Yevette, Steven and Anthony.

Yevette, Steven and Anthony PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY EVENTS NOW! 4199 NORTH FEDERAL HIGHWAY, BOCA RATON, FLORIDA 33431

561-395-6033 | thefrenchgazebo.com

E AT & D R I N K

RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

FLORIDA TABLE

Dining Guide Palm Beach County BOCA RATON Abe & Louie’s —2200 Glades Road. Steakhouse. 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 Mon.-Fri., dinner nightly. Brunch on Sat. and Sun. 561/447-0024. $$$$

AARON BRISTOL

AlleyCat—297 E.Palmetto Park Road. Japanese. Chef Eric Baker’s Japanese izakaya, or a casual spot for drinks and bites, is serving up dishes like sushi, dumplings and fried rice that have an unexpected whimsical element. Here you’ll find king crab tacos and hot fried chicken alongside the hamachi ponzu and spicy scallop roll. And to deliver the freshest sushi in town, he has partnered with celebrated sushi chef David Bouhadana of Sushi by Bou. • Dinner Tues.-Sat. 561/353-5888. $$

Arturo’s Ristorante —6750 N. Federal Highway. Italian. Arturo’s quiet, comfortable dining room; slightly formal, rigorously professional service; and carefully crafted Italian dishes never go out of style. You’ll be tempted to make a meal of the array of delectable antipasti from the antipasti cart, but try to leave room for main courses like the veal shank served on a bed of risotto. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/997-7373. $$$

Wagyu dumplings from AlleyCat

Basilic Vietnamese Grill—200 S. Federal

DINING KEY $: $$: $$$: $$$$:

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Under $17 $18–$35 $36–$50 $50 and up

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. • Dinner daily. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 561/981-8986. $$

Burtons Grill & Bar —5580 N. Military Trail. 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. $

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 (lunch only) 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. $$$ Casimir French Bistro—416 Via De Palmas, Suite 81. French. Take a trip overseas without leaving the city and enjoy excellently prepared traditional French dishes, such as duck l’orange or beef bourguignon, or go with Cajun chicken and veal Milanese. The comfortable dining room is a Parisian experience, as is the apple tarte tatin. This is a local favorite, and may we add they have what is as close to real French bread as anyplace in Boca? • Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/955-6001. $$$

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 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, coq au vin, rack of lamb, salads and more desserts. French food in an unassuming atmosphere.• Dinner Mon.-Sat. (closed on Mon. in summer) 561/997-0027. $$

bocamag.com • • • • November/December 2023

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Chops Lobster Bar—101 Plaza Real S., Royal Palm Place. Steak, seafood. There is nothing like a classic chophouse every now and then for a special dinner. 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. $$$$ Corvina Seafood Grill—110 Plaza Real S, Boca Raton. Seafood. The seafood-centric menu incorporates South Florida’s varied Latin and Caribbean culinary influences into it. Peruvian and Honduran ceviches share the menu with Brazilian fish stew. You’ll also find plantain crusted corvina in a Creole curry sauce alongside Jamaican jerk chicken and island spiced pork ribs. With a focus on sourcing local ingredients, the menu spotlights several daily specials so look out for those. Then there’s the indoor/outdoor bar that invites you to come in and stay a while, especially during its daily happy hour. • Dinner & Sunday Brunch. 561/206-0066. $$

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. Part of the charm of South Florida is its melting pot of Latin cultures, and Cuba is the granddaddy of them all. Which is undoubtedly why diners pack this traditional Cuban restaurant for lunch specials that start at $10.95, including slow-roasted pork served with white rice and black beans. Other highlights include the Cuban sandwich, the media noche and (on the dinner menu only) lechón asado. Full bar. • 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. $$ Farmer’s Table—1901 N. Military Trail. American. In the pantheon of healthy dining, Farmer’s Table is a standout in Boca, one of the first restaurants to elevate natural foods to fine dining. Fresh, natural, sustainable, organic and local is the mantra at this both tasty and health-conscious offering from Mitchell Robbins and Joey Giannuzzi. Menu highlights include flatbreads, slow-braised USDA Choice short rib and the popular Ramen Bowl, with veggies, ramen noodles and shrimp. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/417-5836. $$

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. $$

The French Gazebo —4199 N Federal Highway, Boca Raton. French. Formerly Kathy’s Gazebo, this space has been a staple in our community for 40 years, but its new owners updated the design while keeping the same French classics on the menu like escargots, crêpes, dover sole and duckling. Its vintage character still reigns but now with an airier, contemporary undertone. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/395-6033. • $$$

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—9598 Glades 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, 561/9652663; 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. 561/3682900. $$ P.F. Chang’s—1400 Glades Road. Chinese. There may have been no revolution if Mao had simply eaten at the Boca outpost of P.F. Chang’s—the portions are large enough to feed the masses—and the exquisite tastes in each dish could soothe any tyrant. We particularly like the steamed fish of the day, as well as the Szechuan-style asparagus. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/393-3722. (Other Palm Beach County location: 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561/691-1610) $$

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. $ 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 all-day 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. $

Fries to Caviar —6299 N. Federal Highway. Contemporary American. Going one better than soup to nuts defines this Boca restaurant, an easygoing, affordable bistro 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. $$ November/December 2023 • • • • bocamag.com

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DISCOVERIES

New Fetes, Returning Favorites Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival is back, with starry toques and premiere events Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

events like Brunch at La Goulue with co-hosting chefs Gwen Le Pape, Michelle Bernstein and Ben Ford. For rosé enthusiasts, Almond Palm Beach is hosting a new Rosé Parté with chefs Jason Weiner, Timon Balloo, Zach Engel, Lior Lev Sercarz and Alex Seidel. And for diners looking for something smokier, head to Ravish Off Ocean for the new Porch BBQ dinner’s meat spectacle hosted by pitmasters and chefs Matt Abdoo, Ralph Lewis, Stephen Stryjewski and Johnny Demartini. Aside from debut events, the beloved Grand Tasting’s signature walk-around event at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, Shabbat dinner hosted by Aioli chef Michael Hackman, and the iconic Daniel & Friends brunch, now in its 12th year, are all back. The festival announced its newest partnership with the celebrated Wine Spectator earlier this year. Guests can look forward to an elevated wine presence throughout this year’s events, where all showcased wines will be 90+ rated.

“We are elated to partner with Wine Spectator this year, which marks a very momentous time for PBFWF as we lead into our 16th year,”said David Sabin, the festival’s director.“Together we’re finally bringing our knowledge, expertise and industry relationships to these extraordinary, upscale fine dining event experiences.” While delectable dishes, celeb-

rity chefs and standout wines are all enticing, festival participants can also revel in knowing that a portion of their ticket purchases will benefit Els for Autism Foundation, a Jupiter-based nonprofit, and its programs that serve those with autism spectrum disorder and their families. Check out the complete list of festival events at pbfoodwinefest.com.

Grand Tasting

PISARRI PHOTO

ALISSA DRAGUN

he winter season brings us (hopefully) cooler temperatures, and it also brings us the highly anticipated 16th-annual Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival taking place December 7-10. It’s your opportunity to enjoy unique meals by local chefs like Pushkar Marathe, Jeremy and Cindy Bearman, Julien Gremaud, Clay Conley and Tim Lipman, alongside celebrity chefs like Daniel Boulud and Michelle Bernstein. The four-day lineup is bursting with these talented chefs, numerous decadent meals and several new events throughout the county. For the first time ever, the festival heads to Boca Raton with its Festival Kick-Off Party hosted by The Boca Raton on Friday, Dec. 8. Other new events on Friday include The Founder’s Dinner, with co-chefs Marcello Fiorentino of La Sirena and his longtime friend Boulud; and An Evening at The Breakers, which returns after a four-year hiatus. On Saturday, explore debut

Daniel (Boulud) & Friends brunch

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Real Food Revolution

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E AT & D R I N K RESTAURANT DIRECTORY The Grille On Congress —5101 Congress 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. $$ Houston’s —1900 N.W. Executive Center Circle. Contemporary American. Convenient location, stylish ambience and impeccable service are hallmarks of this local outpost of the Hillstone restaurant chain. There are plenty of reasons why this is one of the most popular business lunch spots in all of Boca, including menu items like Cajun trout, the mammoth salad offerings and the tasty baby back ribs. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/998-0550. $$$

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. $$$

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 —402 Plaza Real. Asian. Kapow delivers an effervescent ambiance that makes you want to relax and stay a while. Its varied menu has something for every craving, from crispy rice and tacos to rolls and even Peking duck. Up your dinner game by reserving a seat at the separate omakase bar serving chef-curated bites that aren’t on the regular menu. And if you’re looking for a memorable night out, book one of the three karaoke rooms.• Lunch and dinner daily. 561/567-8828. $

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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. $$$ Kousine Peruvian Asian—1668 N. Federal Highway. Peruvian/Asian. Chef and owner Danny Kou shares his Peruvian heritage with a curated menu of dishes that accurately represent his country’s famous ceviche while introducing patrons to unique dishes that are just as tempting. Kousine’s space is bright and modern, with exposed industrial ceilings complemented with warm woods and greenery. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/430-3337. $$

La Condesa—3320 Airport Road. Mexican. Mexico’s bold, colorful and lively culture is reflected in its cuisine, and it’s evident at La Condesa. This family-owned restaurant’s take on Mexican fare offers a sizable menu with a wide selection of popular drinks and dishes like margaritas, nachos, street tacos and burritos. You can also opt for less mainstream dishes like the mole cazuelitas, and you won’t be disappointed. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/931-4008. $

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

561-865-5235 800 Palm Trail, Delray Beach, Florida

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MUSIC | ART GALLERY | COMEDY | THEATRE VOLUNTEERING | ARTS EDUCATION

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 homemade pastas and other classic dishes. Try the signature whole yellowtail snapper encrusted in sea salt; it’s de-boned right at tableside. Shrimp diavolo is perfectly scrumptious. • Dinner nightly. (closed Mon. during summer). 561/362-8403. $$$ Le Rivage —450 N.E. 20th St., Suite 103. French. Don’t overlook this small, unassuming bastion of traditional French cookery. That would be a mistake, because the dishes that virtually scream “creativity” can’t compare to the quiet pleasures served here—like cool, soothing vichyssoise, delicate fillet of sole with nutty brown butter sauce or perfectly executed crème brûlee. Good food presented without artifice at a fair price never goes out of fashion. • Dinner nightly. 561/620-0033. $$

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. $$ Los Olivos Bistro —5030 Champion Blvd. Argentine. The family-owned bistro’s menu honors familial Argentine roots with typical crave-worthy dishes like empanadas and plenty of red meat. Still, it also honors the cuisine’s Spanish and Italian influences with its standout paellas and housemade pasta. • Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/756-8928. $ Louie Bossi’s —100 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian.

ArtsGarage.org 94 NE 2nd Ave. Delray Beach, FL 561-450-6357

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. $$ Maggiano’s —21090 St. Andrews Blvd. Italian. Do as the Italians do, and order family-style: Sit back and watch the endless amounts of gorgeous foods grace your table. In this manner, you receive two appetizers, a salad, two pastas, two entrées and two desserts. The menu also includes lighter takes on staples like chicken parm, fettuccine alfredo and chicken piccata. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/361-8244. $$ Mario’s Osteria—1400 Glades Road, Suite 210. Italian. This popular spot features rustic Italian fare in a sleek environment. 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. $$

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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. $$ Max’s Grille —404 Plaza Real. Contemporary American. After 24 years in Mizner Park, This modern American bistro is a true local classic. The food and decor are both timeless and up to date, and the ambience is that of a smooth-running big-city bistro. Service is personable and proficient. The menu is composed of dishes you really want to eat, from the applewood bacon-wrapped meatloaf to the wickedly indulgent crème brûlèe pie. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Brunch Sat–Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/368-0080. $$

Medi Terra —301 Via de Palmas #99. Mediterranean. Embracing western Mediterranean cuisine, the menu is seasonal and revolves around what the owners can freshly source, so make sure to wait for the specials before making any final decisions. The father-son duo bought Ristorante Sapori in Royal Palm Place and redesigned it to reflect their passion for Mediterranean cuisine. Lunch and Dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/367-9779. $$

Morton’s The Steakhouse—5050 Town Center

Buzz Bite I Level Up Your Apple Cider

t might not snow in South Florida, but we can still get into the holiday spirit with festive drinks. Apple cider is a versatile and easy option that you can spike for a boozy cocktail or zhuzh up with a few key ingredients for a fun, kid-friendly alternative. MAKE IT HOT: If you’re hosting a party, break out the Crock-Pot for this mulled cider cocktail. In a low setting, heat the apple cider with 3 cinnamon sticks, 2 cloves, 8 allspice berries, 2 star anises and a few pieces of fresh ginger for 2-3 hours. Then add your favorite rum and level it up with a couple of dashes of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky. COOL IT DOWN: If you’re not ready to say bye to summer yet, make an apple cider spritz by adding Aperol to your apple cider and topping it with your favorite prosecco, a splash of soda water and a sprinkle of cinnamon. FAMILY FRIENDLY: Make an apple cider punch for the kids that the adults can enjoy too. Add your favorite orange, cranberry or mango juice to your apple cider and top it with sparkling white grape juice and a slice of apple for that extra flair. —Christie Galeano-DeMott

Circle, Suite 219. Steakhouse. There’s seemingly no end to diners’ love of huge slabs of high-quality aged beef, nor to the car-

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RESERVE YOUR TABLE AT SIXTYVINES.COM R E S TA U R A N T & W I N E B A R AT T H E S H O P S AT B O C A C E N T E R

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nivores 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. $$$$

Party at the Inlet

This is the time for special private events—and SeaSpray can accommodate 100 guests at yours. The price comes with waterfront views and sunsets.

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. $$$$

Patio Tapas & Beer —205 S.E. First Ave. Spanish. Be transported to the Iberian Peninsula with a variety of tapas. Chef Bryant Fajardo, who trained under celebrated chef José Andrés, specializes in one of Spain’s most traditional and iconic cuisines and delivers both classic selections like Manchego cheese and anchovies alongside premium nibbles like seared duck and foie gras. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/419-7239. $ 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. $$

AARON BRISTOL

Rafina—6877 S.W. 18th St. Greek. If you find the

Slow-roasted rack of lamb from Six Tables

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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 pastitsio 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. $$

Red Pine Restaurant & Lounge–1 Town Center Road. Chinese. The menu is designed to be enjoyed family-style, with substantial portions of classic dishes like housemade vegetable eggrolls, fried rice and General Tso’s chicken, to name a few. The space is bright and lively, with floor-to-ceiling windows, an expansive bar, and several dining spaces accentuated with crimson banquettes. • Dinner Tues-Sun. 561/826-7595. $$

SeaSpray Inlet Grill—999 E. Camino Real. American. Unobstructed views of Lake Boca Raton, soaring palm trees and coastal décor peppered with fringed umbrellas all set the mood for a relaxing experience that will make you feel as if you’re on vacation. The menu accommodates different dietary preferences with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Don’t sleep on the pear tortellini pasta starter; it’s a star item. Portions are hearty and can be easily shared. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/226-3022. $$

Six Tables a Restaurant—112 N.E. Second St., Boca Raton. American. The dimly lit chandeliers, burgundy velvet curtains and smooth Sinatra lyrics set the mood for a memorable evening that’s dedicated to fine dining without pretention. With a seasonal menu that’s ever changing, you can rest assured that whatever husband and wife chef-proprietors Tom and Jenny Finn prepare for you, it will truly be special and made with love. • Dinner Thurs.-Sat. 561/347-6260. $$$$

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. $$

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.) $$$$

Vino —114 N.E. Second St. Wine Bar/Italian. An impressive

Seasons 52—2300 Executive Center Drive. Contempo-

Yakitori—271 S.E. Mizner Blvd. Asian. This Japanese

rary 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.) $$

restaurant that has sat for nearly a decade in Royal Palm Place is still welcoming devoted diners and delivering consistent, premium dishes. Sip on one of its refreshing cocktails like the lychee martini or green tea mojito before perusing the vast menu that offers everything from sushi and sashimi to fried rice, ramen and entrées from the robata grill. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/544-0087. $$

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. $$

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Authentic Italian Cuisine

Chef Rino Aprea brings Brooklyn to Boca Raton From Angelo’s of Mulberry Street and Ponte Vecchio in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, Rino’s brings fine Italian fare and a lively atmosphere to downtown Boca Raton.

39 SE 1st Avenue, Boca Raton, FL 33432

Call For Reservations 561-244-8282 www.rinosofboca.com

Live Music Daily Open Mon-Sun 4pm to 10pm

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TABLE TALK

Mezcal Madness

The Sunset Tequila Festival returns to Mizner Park this November, so we sat down with festival co-organizer David Ortiz to break down one of the hottest spirits on the market right now—and it’s not tequila Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

hen sipping mezcal, it might be hard to imagine its vast history. In social settings among friends, reflecting on the spirit’s traditions is seldom a priority. But the Mexican drink has a storied past complete with intriguing folklore, and David Ortiz, Rocco’s Tacos’ beverage director and mezcal master, is giving us the lowdown. First, a bit of history. Mezcal is the grandfather of tequila, initially in the form of pulque, a fermented agave drink made by Mexico’s indigenous people. When the town of Tequila became the first to mass-produce mezcal, it was called “mezcal from tequila,”later shortened to simply tequila when it was exported to the States in the late 19th century. Fast-forward several decades, and tequila has been having its moment—and now mezcal is piggybacking on tequila’s exponential boom. It’s worth noting that tequila can be called so even with only 51 percent agave sugars, but mezcal has to be 100-percent agave. Most premium producers make tequila with 100-percent Blue Weber agave, but mezcal can be made from one of the more than 200 types of agave plants, giving the spirit a variety of flavors. One of the most common agaves is espadin. Ortiz created the Sunset Tequila Festival last year, with co-organizers Joe Durkin and Vaughan Dugan, to properly introduce the community to quality tequilas and mezcals. This year, the three industry veterans are once again joining forces, hosting the second-annual festival on November 4 at Mizner Park Amphitheater, and inviting all the top tequila and mezcal producers to join them alongside several bands and local restaurants. “For someone intimidated

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by mezcal and tequila, this is a great entrance to come experience, taste, learn, love and vibe everything agave,”Ortiz says. Plus, a portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit Kula Cares, a local charity that provides educational supplies to underserved schools.

A FEW MYTHS DEBUNKED

Mezcal is a hallucinogen. Wrong. In its early days, Americans thought mezcal and the agave plant were the same as the peyote cactus and its mescaline ingredient, a hallucinogen. Mezcal doesn’t give you a hangover. Wrong. Alcohol is ethanol, so if you drink enough, you’ll get drunk and probably have a hangover, regardless of the spirit. All mezcal is smoky. Wrong. Traditionally, mezcal is made when the agave’s piña (or heart) is roasted in an earthen fire pit, covered by wood for several days, then fermented and distilled. All mezcal isn’t smoky by nature; the type of wood used in the pit (if one is even used) can give it those notes. Like wine, mezcal’s terroir also contributes to its flavors, so those notes will differ depending on which of the 10 designated mezcal states it comes from. Each region’s way of production also reflects its cuisine. Hence, a region like Oaxaca, known for its bright, flavorful mole, tends to produce a smoky mezcal that complements its dishes, while a mezcal from a higher elevation may have more floral or sweet notes. All mezcal is the same. Wrong. It can be one of three classifications depending on how it’s produced. If the bottle simply

says mezcal, that means it’s not traditionally made, and instead, it’s made with mechanical equipment in a sizeable production-for-profit setting. A step above is artisanal, produced in the traditional pit and distilled in a copper still. Lastly, there’s ancestral, which follows the indigenous ways of production in a pit, fermented in the open air with wild yeasts, and distilled in clay stills heated by fire. Mezcal is cheaper than tequila. Wrong. Some ancestral agave takes more than 10 years to grow, so you will pay a premium for those mezcals. Also, pricing will depend on its aging process, so reposado or añejo will be pricier than a joven. You have to drink mezcal with an orange slice. Wrong. The orange’s oil, when expressed, balances out the alcohol in the spirit. So, while mezcal can be served with an orange slice, it’s not necessary. For more information about the Sunset Tequila Festival and to purchase tickets, visit sunsettequilafest. com.

TIPS

FROM BEHIND THE BAR BEST WAY TO DRINK MEZCAL

Ortiz says to start with a joven artisanal mezcal on the rocks. Before your first sip, blend 1 tablespoon salt, 1 tablespoon sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Then chop an orange in half moons and sprinkle the mixture on each slice. Then sip, bite, sip. Once your palate starts enjoying the nuances of the agave, a simple mezcal on the rocks is the way to go. When purchasing your next bottle, opt for an additive/preservative-free sip like Los Amantes or Sombra. But if you want a cocktail, these are the best mezcal cocktails: smoky margarita, classic Negroni, Old Fashioned or a mule with ginger beer. BEST FOOD PAIRING

Anything with fish—ceviche, tiradito or fish tacos.

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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. $$ Chloe’s Bistro —6885 S.W. 18th St. Italian. One of the few venues that’s on the water, with food to match the view. Try the seafood linguine, the large snapper filets in Marechiara sauce, and the desserts to end on a sweet note. House-made pasta and a good wine list ensure a pleasant, satisfying meal. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/334-2088. $$ 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. $$$

DVASH—8208 Glades Road. Mediterranean. The menu, a collection of Mediterranean fusion dishes with a variety of daily specials, caters to an array of diets, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free. The Cohen family, who previously owned Falafel Bistro & Wine Bar in Coral Springs for more than a decade, now welcomes diners to this West Boca restaurant that’s tucked away in the Publix Greenwise strip mall. • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/826-7784. $$ Oli’s Fashion Cuisine —6897 S.W. 18th St. Modern American. With the unusual name comes a menu sporting lobster risotto to tuna tacos, grilled mahi and more. There are Italian, vegetarian, steak, flatbreads, salads and desserts, all pleasing to the eye and palate. Inside is a bit noisy, so try the outdoor, lakeside patio for a quieter meal. • Lunch and dinner daily, breakfast weekends. 561/571-6920. $$

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

Skyfin Asian Bistro—8221 Glades Road. Asian. 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. Here, you’ll find both playfully named sushi rolls and fresh sashimi alongside protein-rich house

RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

specials, fried rice and noodles. Don’t miss the Toro Roll and Tangerine Peel Beef. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/556-1688. $$

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 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. $$

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 me-

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dallions 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. $$

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

AARON BRISTOL

50 Ocean—50 S. Ocean Blvd. Seafood. The former Upper Deck

Snapper oreganato from 800 Palm Trail Grill

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. $$

800 Palm Trail Grill—800 Palm Trail. American. This contemporary space is serving up American fare and classic cocktails. The menu has a steak-and-seafood-house feel to it but without any stuffiness. Instead, you’ll find dishes that entice the palate, like the loaded baked potato eggrolls and Wagyu boneless short rib. • Lunch and dinner daily, with patio dining. 561/865-5235. $$$

Akira Back—233 NE Second Ave. Japanese Chef Akira

Happiest of Hours

Brulé Bistro offers Happy Hour from Wed. through Sun., 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.—with 20 percent off the entire menu. We’re looking at you, pork belly banh mi sliders...

Back’s Seoul restaurant earned a Michelin star a few years ago and now he’s showcasing his talented take on Japanese cuisine at his namesake restaurant inside The Ray hotel. Born in Korea and raised in Colorado, Back blends his heritage with Japanese flavors and techniques he has mastered to deliver dishes that are unique to him. With plates made to be shared, the menu is divided into cold and hot starters followed by rolls, nigiri/sashimi, robata grill, mains and fried rice. Dinner. 561/739-1708. $$$$

Amar Mediterranean Bistro —522 E. Atlantic Ave. Lebanese. From the moment you step inside, there’s a familial feeling, a hidden gem that everyone is drawn to. Amar is a quaint bistro amidst the buzzy Atlantic Avenue that serves Lebanese food. But this isn’t your typical hummus and pita joint. Here, the proprietor’s family recipes take center stage alongside Mediterranean favorites that have been elevated with slight tweaks. • Dinner nightly. 561/865-5653. $$

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. $

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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. $$

Avalon Steak and Seafood—110 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood/Steakhouse. 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 more. 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. Don’t miss Avalon’s signature dish, the Angry Lobster. • Dinner nightly. 561/593-2500. $$$$ Bamboo Fire Cafe —149 N.E. Fourth Ave. Caribbean. The Jacobs family joyously shares its Latin and Caribbean culture through food that’s bursting with bright island aromas and flavors. Tostones, plantain fries and jerk meatballs share the menu with curry pork, oxtail and conch. A quintessential Delray gem. • Dinner Wed.-Sun. 561/749-0973. $

Bar 25 Gastropub —25 S.E. Sixth Ave., Delray Beach. American. Taking inspiration from the Northeast, the menu boasts staples like Philly cheesesteak, Rhode Island clams, pierogis, Old Bay fries and plenty of mootz (aka mozzarella). Loyal to its gastropub DNA, dishes here aren’t complicated or complex but satisfying, interesting takes on the familiar without being boring. • Lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. 561/359-2643. $

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. Italian. This multiple Delray Beach-award winning restaurant has sparkling service, comfort food taken to a higher level, and a setting just steps from the Atlantic. A success from day one, they dish up big flavors in a tiny space, so

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DREAM BIG. Our Federation has been — and will continue to be — the cornerstone of Jewish life in South Palm Beach County. As a community of doers, we never wait for our situation to get better. We make our situation better. To meet evolving needs, we work alongside our local and international partners to make a greater impact. Those efforts are only possible with your investment in Federation, which creates positive change. Today and tomorrow.

Get involved today. Visit jewishboca.org

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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 Ristorante Italiano —9 S.E. Seventh Ave. Italian. Casa L’Acqua is touted as a fine-dining establishment, and correctly so; diners can expect white tablecloths, tuxedoed staff and attentive service. The wine list is Italian-focused but does offer a variety of bottles from around the world, and each dish is expertly prepared with sizable portions. The main dining room, with its vibey bar and wine cellar, is cozy, and so is its fully enclosed patio in the back. • Dinner nightly. 561/563-7492. $$ City Oyster—213 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. This stylish mainstay of Big Time Restaurant Group serves up reasonably priced seafood that never disappoints, such as shrimp and grits with a jumbo crab cake. This is the place to see and be seen in Delray, and the food lives up to its profile. • Lunch Mon.–Sun. Dinner nightly. Outdoor dining. 561/272-0220. $$ Coco Sushi Lounge & Bar—25 N.E. Second Ave. Asian. Local hospitality veterans Tina Wang and chef Jason Zheng continue to grow their restaurant empire with this concept. The extensive menu caters to any palate, dietary restriction or craving and features both traditional and creative dishes. Soups and salads lead into sushi selections and appetizers divided into cool and hot. Cooked and raw rolls are followed by rice, noodle, land and sea entrée options. • Dinner Mon.-Sat. Sunday brunch. 561/908-2557. $$

Costa By OK&M—502 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary

Elisabetta’s gelato dessert

American. Costa takes chef/owner Coton Stine’s dedication to farmto-table fare to an elevated level with its seasonal menu. Working closely with local farms and vendors, Stine curates deliciously healthy dishes that tempt your palate while fueling your body. For those with dietary restrictions, the dishes are clearly labeled gluten-free or vegan, which adds a sense of ease to the experience. The corner space is comfortable and embraces natural elements with its wicker chairs, lanterns, greenery and expansive sliding doors. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/501-6115. • $$

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. $$$

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. $$

All Hands on Deck

Since it opened in 2010, Delray’s popular Deck 84 has been voted among the Top 100 alfresco restaurants in the U.S. multiple times by Opentable diners.

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. $ Drift—10 N. Ocean Blvd. American. Inside the Opal Grand Resort & Spa, the restaurant’s coastal décor is polished with warm woods, textured stone walls, rope detailing and living

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walls. The bar is spacious, and several nooks overlook the ocean and the buzzy Atlantic Avenue. The all-day menu covers all the bases. You’ll find easy dishes to snack on after the beach, or if you’re craving an extended Happy Hour experience, enjoy the cheese board, hummus, baked oysters and poke alongside casual burgers, flatbreads and salads. The entrées offer something for everyone, including chicken, steak, lamb and fish. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/274-3289. $$

Eathai—1832 S. Federal Highway. Thai. If you’re craving approachable and affordable Thai food, put Eathai at the top of your list. While you can expect to find curries, noodles, soups and fried rice on the menu, the dishes here aren’t the typical ones you’ll find around town. Indulge in the Thai Chicken French Toasted or Crispy Duck Breast with Lychee Curry Sauce or Oxtail Basil Fried Rice to savor the true talent of owner and chef Sopanut Sopochana. • Lunch and dinner daily, except Tuesday. 561/270-3156. $ 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 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. $$ The Grove—187 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. The Grove, which has been tucked inside the tranquil Pineapple Grove district for nearly a decade, continues to surprise diners with its vibrant dishes. The upscale but casually comfortable nook has an international wine list that spans the globe and a seasonal menu that’s succinct and well thought out. • Dinner Tues.-Sat. 561/266-3750. $$ 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 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. $$ J&J Seafood Bar & Grill—634 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. This local favorite on Atlantic Avenue—owned by John Hutchinson (who is also the chef) and wife Tina—serves up everything from burgers and wraps to a menu brimming with seafood options. Don’t forget to inquire about the stunning array of 10 specials—every night. This is is a bona fide local go-to spot that never disappoints. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/272-3390. $$

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Buzz Bite II

FLY SAFE, FLY PRIVATE

Where to Get Your Pies

he holidays are here, which means it’s pie season. Whether you crave a cool and tart slice of Key lime or a warm and gooey chocolate peanut butter treat, these local bakeries are serving up some of the best pies in town. Now, all you must decide is whether you’ll take the credit for it. KEY LIME TO HAPPINESS Specializing in pie bites, or delightful cupcake-size pies, this bakery requires customers to pre-order all baked goods. It does also make mini and full-size pies, so you have plenty of variety to choose from. The family-owned shop sells its famed Key lime pies and other inventive flavors like guava Key lime, mango Key lime, and s’mores pies. 1253 Old Okeechobee Road, West Palm Beach; 561/371-4167; keylimetohappiness.com

we are pet friendly

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JOSEPH’S CLASSIC MARKET The Italian market’s freshly baked pies are readily available thanks to its four locations in Palm Beach County. Its cheesecakes are legendary, but don’t miss out on its other pies, like coconut cream, apple or blueberry, made with quality ingredients that you can taste. 6000 Glades Road, Boca Raton; 561/347-2314; josephsclassicmarket.com MO&MA COOKIES AND PIES This family-owned bakery is whipping up various holiday treats, from traditional pumpkin and apple pies to flourless chocolate, Key lime and coconut cream pies. While typical full-size pies may have been standard previously on your holiday table, it also offers customers mini pies in case your family can’t commit to one flavor or wants to try a few this year. 21302 Saint Andrews Blvd., Boca Raton; 561/419-6489; momacookiesandpies.com —Christie Galeano-DeMott

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RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

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

Good Humor

Sometimes award-wining burgers and a great outdoor bar just aren’t enough; sometmes you need to dig way down into craft cocktail culture and invent a drink that tastes like a creamsicle: whipped vodka and orange juice topped with Sprite. Get yours at The Office.

ranean-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. $$ Latitudes —2809 S. Ocean Blvd. Modern American. You should come for both the sunset and the food. This oceanfront restaurant is a gem tucked inside the Delray Sands resort. From the airy, bubbly interior to the raw bar, the décor is soothing and fun. Try the lobster and crab stuffed shrimp, the miso-glazed Skuna Bay salmon, the branzino or the veal Bolognese. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/278-6241. $$$ Le Colonial —601 E. Atlantic Ave. Vietnamese French. Le Colonial radiates classic elegance that is as sophisticated as it is comfortable. Created to showcase Vietnamese cuisine and its French influences, Le Colonial has a standout method of curating classic Vietnamese dishes that appeal to various palates, from meat lovers and pescatarians to vegetarians. The space immediately transports you back to Saigon’s tropical paradise of the 1920s. Lush birds of paradise and palms line the halls that lead into intimate dining nooks throughout the 7,000-square-foot restaurant.• Lunch (on weekends) and dinner daily. 561/566-1800. $$$

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). $

Classic rock shrimp from Lionfish

Lionfish —307 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. Focusing on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, Lionfish’s menu is diverse while its coastal décor is both stylish and comfortable. Choose from oysters, octopus, specialty sushi rolls, fresh catches and, of course, the namesake white flaky fish in a variety of preparations including whole fried and as a bright ceviche. Make sure to save room for the Key lime pie bombe dessert. • Dinner nightly, brunch weekends. 561/639-8700. $$$ Lulu’s—189 N.E. Second Ave. American. Lulu’s in Pineapple Grove offers a relaxed ambiance with unfussy, approachable food. The quaint café is open every day and serves an all-day menu including breakfast until 3 p.m. and a selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads and entrées that are ideal for an executive lunch, lively tapas happy hour, casual dinner or late night snack (until 2 a.m.). • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/453-2628. $

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MIA Kitchen & Bar —7901 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. Contemporary American. Owner Joey Lograsso and chef Jason Binder have curated a balanced choreography of fascinating yet approachable dishes. The menu travels the world from Italy to Asia and showcases Binder’s formal training with elevated dishes that are exceptionally executed. It’s vibey with a great playlist, and the design, reminiscent of a cool Wynwood bar, is industrial with exposed ducts, reclaimed wood and sculptural filament chandeliers. It’s a place that amps up all your senses. • Dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/499-2200. $$$

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. $$

Papa’s Tapas —259 N.E. Second Ave. Spanish. This family-owned restaurant will make you feel welcomed, and its cuisine will satisfy your craving for Spanish tapas. Start with a few shareable plates and then enjoy a hearty paella that’s bursting with a selection of seafood, chicken or vegetables. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat., dinner Sun. 561/266-0599. $

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. $$ Racks Fish House + Oyster Bar—5 S.E. Second Ave. Seafood. Gary Rack, who also has scored with his spot in Mizner Park, certainly seems to have the restaurant Midas touch, as evidenced by this updated throwback to classic fish houses. Design, ambience and service hit all the right notes. Oysters are terrific any way you get them; grilled fish and daily specials are excellent. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/450-6718. $$$ 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. $$

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. $$

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Buzz Bite III

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

Where to Eat During Miami Art Week

MIAMI BEACH Stubborn Seed–Dive into this Michelin-starred menu and prepare for an unforgettable experience. stubbornseed.com Joe’s Stone Crab–It’s a Miami institution that’s worth the visit; just try to visit during off-hours to avoid a long wait. joesstonecrab.com WYNWOOD/DESIGN DISTRICT/ ALLAPATTAH Leku–Kill two birds with one stone by savoring delightful dishes from Spain’s Basque region and then popping into its neighbor, the Rubell Museum. lekumiami.com Amara at Paraiso–If you’re looking for stunning, unobstructed water views to pair with your meal, you’ll find them at this Michael Schwartz concept. amaraatparaiso.com DOWNTOWN Jaguar Sun–Part cocktail bar, part restaurant, this downtown haunt is all parts cool. Whether you drop in for a drink or dinner, you won’t be disappointed. jaguarsunmia.com NIU Kitchen–This quaint Spanish restaurant offers traditional and unique takes on tapas. niukitchen.com COCONUT GROVE Ariete–Chef Michael Beltran’s take on new American cuisine (with a Michelin star) is just as exciting as it is tempting. arietecoconutgrove.com Regatta Grove–If you’re looking for something casual, head to this new open-air concept that offers food truck options from some of Miami’s best chefs, including Jeremy Ford (of Stubborn Seed). —Christie Galeano-DeMott

Rose Glamoclija, R.N. Founder and Administrator

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iami Art Week has taken over the city and extends far beyond Art Basel’s Miami Beach location, so listing all your dining options would be insurmountable. Instead, we’re just giving you a small taste to whet your appetite.

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RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

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. $$$ Veg Eats Foods—334 E. Linton Blvd. Creative Vegan. This is comfort food for everyone; the dishes will impress carnivores, too. Smell the fresh coconut vegetable curry soup, which tastes as good as it sounds. Try the grilled brawt sausage, the Ranch chixn, the banh mi and a Ruben—all from plant-based ingredients that will fool your taste buds. • Lunch daily. 561/562-6673. $ Vic & Angelo’s —290 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. People watching is a staple ingredient here, a complement to the Italian fare. The wine menu is robust, mainly grounded in Italy but with choices from around the world. Larger than personal pies, thin-crust pizzas are family-friendly, while you won’t want to share the Quattro Formaggi Tortellini, fluffy purses filled with al dente pear and topped with truffle cream. For a protein, try the traditional chicken parmigiana, a hearty portion of paper-thin breaded chicken breast topped with a subtly sweet San Marzano sauce under a gooey layer of fresh mozzarella, and a substantial side of linguine pomodoro. If you have room for dessert, the classic sweets include cannoli and tiramisu. • Dinner nightly; brunch weekends. 561/278-9570. $$

LAKE WORTH BEACH 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

Voyage Boutique has been sharing authentic French Fashion with South Florida for over 20 years. 400 Gulfstream Blvd, Delray Beach FL 33444 10:00 am to 4:30 pm Mon-Sat

561-279-2984

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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. $$$ Café L’Europe —331 S. County Road. Current International. A Palm Beach standard, the café has long been known for its peerless beauty, the piano player, the chilled martinis and the delicious Champagne and caviar bar. Try one of its sophisticated classics like wiener schnitzel with herbed spaetzle, grilled veal chop and flavorful pastas. • Lunch Tues.–Fri. Dinner nightly (closed Mon. during summer). 561/655-4020. $$$ Echo—230A Sunrise Ave. Asian. The cuisine reverberates with 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. $$$

Voyage Boutique may be tucked away from the bustling Avenue, but it stands out as a pinnacle of fashion. Whether you’re in search of casual wear, attire for a special occasion, or an elegant ensemble for a soiree, you’re guaranteed to discover it within our unique boutique. When embarking on international travels, setting sail on a cruise, or preparing for the holiday season, your search ends here. Allow us to elevate your wardrobe with style and a touch of ‘je ne sais quoi.’ Voyage Boutique also serves as your European haven for handbags, belts, shoes, gifts, and more. We cater to all sizes, ranging from XS to 3X, and offer in-house alterations for a perfect fit. Come join us for a shopping experience that transcends the ordinary and when you do, don’t forget to mention that you found us in Boca Mag.

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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 depart without sampling the dreamy warm onion-Parmesan dip with housemade fingerling potato chips, the sexy wild boar empanaditas, chicken albondigas tacos and Korean-style short ribs. The wine list is encyclopedic. • Dinner nightly. 561/290-0104. $$ Imoto —350 S. County Road. Asian Fusion/Tapas. Clay Conley’s “little sister” (the translation of Imoto from Japanese) is next to his always-bustling Buccan. Imoto turns out Japanese-inspired small plates with big-city sophistication, like witty Peking duck tacos and decadent tuna and foie gras sliders. Sushi selection is limited but immaculately fresh. • Dinner nightly. 561/833-5522. $$ 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. $$$

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. $$ Café Centro —2409 N. Dixie Highway. Modern American. A cornerstone in the Northwood neighborhood, this venue draws because of a complete package: food, drinks and great nightlife and music. Take some char-grilled oysters, add shrimp pesto capellini or a marinated pork chop with polenta, plus local singing fave Tessie Porter, and you have a fun and delicious night out. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/514-4070. $$

French Corner Bistro & Rotissorie— 4595 Okeechobee Blvd. Classic French. It’s France in a tiny venue, with big-taste dishes that include all the faves: beef bourguignon, rack of lamb, duck à l’orange, frog legs Provencale, veal kidneys, tender branzino and simple desserts to end the meal. Reservations are mandatory for dinner. • Lunch and dinner Mon.Sat. 561/689-1700. $$

Grato —1901 S. Dixie Highway. Italian. “Grato” is Italian for “grateful,” and there is much to be grateful for about Clay Conley’s sophisticated yet unpretentious take on Italian cookery. Anyone would be grateful to find such delicate, crispy and greaseless fritto misto as Grato’s, ditto for lusty beef tartare piled onto a quartet of crostini. Spinach gnocchi in porcini mushroom sauce are a revelation, so light and airy they make other versions taste like green library paste. Don’t miss the porchetta either, or the silken panna cotta with coffee ice cream and crunchy hazelnut tuille. • Dinner nightly. Sunday brunch. 561/404-1334. $$

Leila—120 S. Dixie Highway. Mediterranean. Flowing drapes and industrial lighting complete the exotic decor in this Middle Eastern hit. Sensational hummus is a must-try. Lamb kebab with parsley, onion and spices makes up the delicious Lebanese lamb kefta. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sun. 561/659-7373. $$

Marcello’s La Sirena —6316 S. Dixie Highway. Italian. You’re in for a treat if the pasta of the day is prepared with what might be the best Bolognese sauce ever. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. (closed Memorial Day–Labor Day). 561/585-3128. $$

NobleCon19. Noble Capital Markets 19th Annual Emerging Growth Equity Conference has moved to FAU. More than 200 public company executive guest speakers. The 43rd President of the United States. The NCAA Men’s Basketball Coach of the Year. Presentations, breakouts, one-on-ones, panels. And the legendary “After” networking evening at the Boca Airport.

If you’re looking for the next apple, this is your orchard.

November/December 2023 • • • • bocamag.com

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36 Holes featuring Hole-side food & beverage delivery over 50,000 lights 50+ beer, wine, seltzers & ciders 350 NE 5TH AVENUE , DELRAY BEACH (561) 450-6162 WWW.PUTTNAROUND.NET

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP Statement Required by 39 U.S.C. 3526 showing the Ownership, Management and Circulation of Boca Raton magazine, published eight times a year. ISSN 0740-2856. Annual subscription price: $24.95 1. Location of known Office of Publication is 1000 Clint Moore Rd #103 Boca Raton FL 33487. 2. Location of known Headquarters of General Business offices of the Publishers is 1000 Clint Moore Rd #103 Boca Raton FL 33487. 3. The names and addresses of the publisher and editor are: Publisher: Margaret Mary Shuff, 1000 Clint Moore Rd #103 Boca Raton FL 33487. Editor: Marie Speed, 1000 Clint Moore Rd #103 Boca Raton FL 33487. 4. The owner is Margaret Mary Shuff, 1000 Clint Moore Rd #103 Boca Raton FL 33487. 5. Known bondholders, mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities are: None. 6. Extent and nature of circulation Average No. Copies Each Issue No. Copies of Single Issue During Preceding 12 Months Published Nearest to Filing Date A. Total Number of Copies Printed 21,465 21,000 B. Paid Circulation 1. Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions. 1,025 1,004 2. Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions. 10,564 10,861 3. Paid Distribution Outside the Mails including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, 2,434 2,419 Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS®. 4. Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail. C. Total Paid Distribution 14,022 14,284 D. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution 1. Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies 2. Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies 4,500 4,500 3. Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes 4. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail 2,036 1,540 E. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution 6,536 6,040 F. Total Distribution 20,558 20,324 G. Copies Not Distributed 907 676 H. TOTAL 21,465 21,000 I. Percent Paid 68% 70% 7. I certify that all statements made by me above are correct and complete.

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Pistache —1010 N. Clematis St., #115. French. Pistache doesn’t just look like a French bistro, it cooks like one. The menu includes such bistro specialties as coq au vin and steak tartare. All that, plus guests dining al fresco have views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Centennial Park. • Brunch Sat.–Sun. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/833-5090. $$ Planta—700 S. Rosemary Ave. Vegan. For those who savor every juicy, tender and flavorful bite of a well-prepared burger, patronizing a vegan establishment may seem like a sacrilegious act. But what if a restaurant served up plant-based dishes that surprised your taste buds with exploding flavors? Here vegans don’t have to worry about ingredients making the cut, and non-vegans can enjoy approachable and appetizing plant-based dishes that won’t make you yearn for a steak. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/208-5222. $$ The Regional—651 Okeechobee Blvd. Southern. “Top Chef” alum and James Beard Foundation semifinalist Lindsay Autry embraces her southern roots while adding a dash of her Mediterranean heritage (her grandmother was from Crete) onto the menu. You’ll find traditional southern ingredients and dishes like collard greens, tomato pie, okra, fried chicken and shrimp & grits alongside smoked burrata, Greek salad, octopus and bucatini. • Dinner nightly. 561/557-6460. $$$

Rhythm Café —3800 S. Dixie Highway. Casual American. Once a diner, the interior is eclectic with plenty of kitsch. The crab cakes are famous here, and the tapas are equally delightful. Homemade ice cream and the chocolate chip cookies defy comparison. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/833-3406. $$ Rocco’s Tacos —224 Clematis St. Mexican. Big Time Restaurant Group has crafted a handsome spot that dishes Mexican favorites, as well as upscale variations on the theme and more than 425 tequilas. Tacos feature house-made tortillas and a variety of proteins. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/650-1001. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 5250 Town Center Circle, Boca Raton, 561/416-2131; 110 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561/808-1100; 5090 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561/623-0127) $ Table 26°—1700 S. Dixie Highway. Contemporary American. Take a quarter-cup of Palm Beach, a tablespoon of Nantucket, a pinch of modern American cookery and a couple gallons of the owners’ savoir faire, and you have Eddie Schmidt’s and Ozzie Medeiros’s spot. The menu roams the culinary globe for modest contemporary tweaks on classically oriented dishes. Try the fried calamari “Pad Thai.” • Dinner nightly. 561/8552660. $$$ Tropical Smokehouse —3815 S. Dixie Highway. Barbecue. When you take the distinct tastes of Florida/Caribbean/Cuban dishes and pair them with barbecue, you end up with a place you visit a lot. Local celeb chef Rick Mace smokes the meats himself, and his recipes include all kinds of citrus in tasty spots (sour orange wings, pineapple carrot cake); you’ll discover new favorite flavors. Don’t miss the BBQ pulled pork, brisket and ribs. Try the hot and sweet hushpuppies or the homemade chorizo queso in this very casual spot that we can happily say is also unique—there’s nothing else like it. • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/323-2573. $$

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

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FAU HIGH SCHOOL

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