DELRAY Magazine Jan/Feb 2023

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12 editor’s letter

With activities aplenty and the weather idyllic, it’s the perfect season to act like a tourist in your hometown.

BY MARIE SPEED

15 hot list

The Delray Beach Open continues to be a net gain for the city, Subculture Coffee expands its grounds, and Oceanside Grocers is the new O.G. Plus, community happenings at the Spady Museum and Pineapple Grove, spiritual coach Amalia Natalio on how to level up in 2023, and much more.

BY CHRISTINA WOOD

21 snapshots

Charitable giving was in full force late last year, thanks to Do Good Delray, the Sundy Village Project, the Junior League and Kindness Angels.

22 top 5/calendar

A new play resurrects the fighting spirit of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the Garlic Fest adds twang to its flavorful palette of music and food, and a renowned soul singer explores her indigenous roots. Plus, the Blue Man Group, Broadway’s “Hadestown” and “Tootsie,” Boyz II Men and many more A&E highlights.

BY JOHN THOMASON

27 home

With curving, rounded forms appearing everywhere from bedrooms to kitchens to living rooms, the edgiest trend in interior design may be the absence of edges.

BY CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

32 up close

A snowboarding chef’s fusion favorites are elevating Delray’s hottest new Japanese restaurant, and a luxury watch retailer has plenty of time on his hands.

BY TYLER CHILDRESS

38 dine

MIA Kitchen and Bar dishes up creative and globetrotting cuisine from its cozy spot just off the Turnpike.

BY CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

42 still farming

Whether specializing in microgreens or bromeliads, hot peppers or exotic mushrooms, these mom-andpop farmers enjoy a down-to-earth lifestyle—for their benefit and ours.

BY RICH POLLACK

48 behind the scenes at lion country safari

It’s always a wild life for the cageless denizens of Palm Beach County’s drive-thru animal attraction. In our exclusive backstage visit, we learned why zebras can be mean, why monkeys can be mercurial and why rhinos need a good spa day.

BY MARIE SPEED

62 out & about

This past season, Delray “witches” brewed up laughs and lagers at Tim Finnegans, locals hit the links for charity, and the Kravis Center and Impact 100 launched their seasons in grand fashion.

BY TYLER CHILDRESS

68 savor the avenue

Florida’s longest dining room table—and Delray’s most delicious evening—is back!

73 dining guide

Our review-driven dining guide showcases great restaurants in Delray and beyond.

BY CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

80 community connection

With a passion for fighting poverty that spans decades, Jackie Ermola continues to be a vital advocate for the city’s homeless population.

BY RICH POLLACK

group editor-in-chief marie speed

managing editor john thomason web editor tyler childress senior art director lori pierino photographer aaron bristol production manager rafael quiñones

contributing writers christie galeano-demott, margie kaye (promotional writing), rich pollack, christina wood director of advertising and marketing nicole ruth advertising consultants karen kintner, bruce klein jr., tanya plath special projects manager gail eagle

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DIRECTORY

Delray Beach magazine is published five times a year, with bi-monthly issues in-season and combined issues in the summertime. 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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[ calendar ]

Where to go, what to do and see in Delray Beach. Please submit information regarding fundraisers, art openings, plays, readings, concerts, dance or other performances to managing editor John Thomason (john.thomason@bocamag.com). Deadline for entries in an upcoming calendar section is three months before publication (e.g., to list an event in March/April, submit info by December 20).

[ dining guide ]

Our independent reviews of restaurants in Delray Beach. A fine, reliable resource for residents and tourists. For more information, contact Marie Speed.

[ out & about ]

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In this issue we take a look at some of the smaller farmers in our area (page 42), people who bring us fresh vegetables and goods directly from their own land—an ongoing trend that Delray, like most of the country, has embraced for decades now. In days past, I recall going to Neal’s for the best tomatoes, Merkel Brothers for orchids, Mr. Penny for fresh greens. Now all that and just about everything else is all in one place now: The Delray GreenMarket every Saturday on the grounds of Old School Square.

Like everything else in our city, the GreenMarket, where most of these vendors can be found, has grown into a place where living the good life is easy now. In fact, all of Delray has become that. What used to be breakfast at Ken & Hazel’s or the Green Owl or Sande’s has morphed into elaborate brunches at most major dining spots downtown. There are art galleries and clothing stores and small parks and bike lanes; Jazz on the Avenue is back. If the Old School Square loss could be resolved, we’d really have our mojo back—in spades.

Delray has always been a place that keeps evolving, and nowhere is it more evident than when season is in full swing. Which brings me to the sheer joy of being a tourist for a change. Like when we headed west to see our favorite attraction, Lion Country Safari (page 48). I still love how it feels to enter that park, to see herds of antelope and miles of open space, driving past ostriches and emus and ancient tortoises. The care and conservation efforts at this venerable attraction are reason enough to visit, but we’re also a little partial to the rhinos and giraffes.

So it’s that time of year—to get out, explore, rediscover South Florida and the charming town we get to call home. Take a ride on the Lady Atlantic. Find a restaurant you haven’t tried. Visit the Arts Garage.

I wish you a great start to this New Year, and new adventures right here at home.

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NEWS AND NOTES FROM DELRAY BEACH

Cameron Norrie at the 2022 Delray Beach Open ANDREW PATRON/ZUMA PRESS WIRE

OPEN FOR SERVICE

For the 25th year, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour will kick off its North American outdoor season of hard court events at the Delray Beach Open. The tournament, one of just 10 ATP Tour events held in the United States every year, always attracts an impressive lineup of players along with thousands of visitors. The annual event is also the only tournament in the world featuring an ATP Champions Tour event and an ATP Tour event in the same week at the same venue! That venue is, of course, the Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center. This year’s tournament begins Feb. 10 and runs through Feb. 19. A limited number of Senior Day Discounts are available for those willing to admit that they are 55 or older. 201 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561/330-6000, yellowtennisball.com

HELLO, OLD BEAN

OH, GOOD

The O.G., which masquerades as The Oceanside Grocers, is back—and you don’t have to stay up past your bedtime to enjoy the new offerings that come along with the popular hangout’s seven-month, seven-figure renovation. What was a neighborhood cocktail bar with an almost cult-like late-night following is now offering a warm welcome at lunch and dinner, thanks to a partnership with Taquiza, Miami’s award-winning destination for authentic Mexican tacos and street fare. (Yes, we’re talking about the taqueria featured on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” and “The Zimmerman List,” a coveted Michelin Guide recommendation!) In addition to the new kitchen, the completely reimagined 7,700-square-foot venue now also boasts an outdoor bar area and an expansive covered patio with a mural wall that winds through the garden area. 166 S.E. 2nd Ave., Delray Beach , 561/865-5639, delrayog.com / taquizatacos.com

Among one of the many quotes attributed to Voltaire is: “Common sense is not so common.” Obviously, the 18th-century philosopher was a wise man. He was also a big fan of coffee. Could his passion for coffee (he is said to have consumed more than 40 cups of coffee a day!) and his wisdom be linked? An unofficial poll (taken by the coffeemaker) indicates it is highly likely. So, perhaps, the opening of a new Subculture Coffee location in Delray is cause for us to hope that we can all look forward to more wise and witty discourse in our fair Village by the Sea. 306 N.E. 6th Ave., Delray Beach, subculturecoffee.com

2022 Delray Beach Open

ANDREW

Taco and El Gringo cocktail from Taquiza

ANTHONY NADER

SIMPLE PLEASURES

It’s the little things that make life sparkle. Something as simple (and simply delicious) as a buttery chocolate croissant or a scone bursting with plump blueberries can make you feel special. In a slump? Having a bad day? Take a little timeout to enjoy something fresh from the oven at Amar Bakery & Market, which began serving up European and Middle Eastern-inspired baked goods in November. Don’t rush, close your eyes, focus your thoughts on the flavors and open your heart to the pleasure. Lick the final crumbs from your fingers. Located on Atlantic Avenue next to Amar Mediterranean Bistro, the bakery also serves a variety of fresh sandwiches, dips, salads, and specialty coffees from Jupiter’s award-winning Pumphouse Coffee Roasters. And, if you’d like to brighten someone else’s day, you can shop for imported market items such as olive oil, tahini, halva, spices and a selection of fun housewares. 526 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561/806-6726 / amar-bakery.com

The Aching Void

It’s time to fill that lonely, empty space within! Within the former Stein Mart location in Delray Place, that is. Nordstrom Rack will be breathing new—and stylish—life into the 26,000-square-foot retail space this spring. “We look forward to opening our first Nordstrom Rack location in the Delray Beach community,” Carl Jenkins, senior vice president of Nordstrom Rack stores, said in a statement. “In addition to shopping the brands they love at a great price, we welcome our customers in Delray Beach to enjoy this convenient new location as a place to pick up online orders and make returns.” Parking may once again be at a premium at the shopping mecca, which is also home to Trader Joe’s, Pet Supermarket and Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar, among others, but it will be worth it! 1855 S. Federal Highway, Suite 506, Delray Beach, nordstromrack.com

AFTER DARK: TAKING IT TO THE STREET

Art & Jazz on the Avenue returns to Pineapple Grove on Wednesday, Jan. 25. From 6 to 9:30 p.m., musicians, artists and local eateries will fill a stretch of NE 2nd Avenue, from Atlantic Avenue to NE 3rd Street, with color, sound and tempting aromas. The event features an interactive kids’ zone. Area merchants will also be joining in the festivities with special promotions and the Downtown Development Authority will be launching a new wellness initiative. 561/243-1077, downtowndelraybeach.com/artandjazz

Jazz On The Avenue Returns

Amar Bakery

SPOTLIGHT:

AMALIA NATALIO

After everything the past few years have thrown at us, we deserve a break. And spiritual coach Amalia Natalio says we might be about to get one. “It’s the start of the New Year, there’s going to be definitely a feeling of lightness, but there’s still going to be those last little bits for us to clear off,” she says, likening the process to a home improvement project. As we move into 2023, all the heavy lifting should be behind you. “Now we’re just doing a little bit of light sanding before we throw the paint on the wall and can stand back and say, ‘Wow, look at this life that I created… Look at this newfound relationship; look at this career that I brought into reality. Look at me and how I’m showing up differently in the world.’ It’s the beginning of the smoother sailing.”

Natalio, who has studied with the likes of Deepak Chopra and Emily Fletcher, has been in the area off and on for about 10 years and has been living here full-time for three years. Her signature workshop and coaching program, Soulful Life, focuses on empowering you to gain clarity on your desires and take intentional action to make them a reality. (For more information, visit karmickindness.com.)

HER THOUGHTS ON A HAPPY NEW YEAR: “At the start of 2023, we are going to feel a lot lighter because we will have released our attachments to people, places or circumstances that were holding us back or that were a burden to us.”

AND ON A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE: “There are a number of planetary energies that are changing. And when the planetary energies change that allows everyone to make some changes in their lives. That will show up in different ways for different people based on their own personal astrology…They may see huge leaps, or they may just see small shifts but either way, there will be opportunities for people to really step into what they truly love, what they truly desire and what’s meant for them—if they’re aware of the signs.”

ON WHAT HOLDS SOME PEOPLE BACK: “The unknown can feel scary. Our brains are wired to keep us safe. What we consider safe is familiar and what is unfamiliar seems scary.”

ON WHAT MAKES DELRAY SPECIAL: “Delray has this really fun quirky vibe…You’ve got art, you’ve got culture, you have food and you have wellness. Wellness is so big in Delray!”

HER FAVORITE THING TO DO: “There’s a yoga studio where I do workshops and practice yoga myself, Dancing Lion Studio in Delray. What else? Honestly, just walking around on the Ave., catching live music or going dancing on a Friday night.”

HER FAVORITE PLACE TO HANG: “Deke’s Coffee…Their cold brew and Monster green tea—one of the owner’s sisters mills that tea herself and it’s just unbelievably amazing.”

FREE TO CELEBRATE

February is National Black History Month. The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, the only museum in Palm Beach County dedicated to showcasing the contributions that members of the African Diaspora have made to our community, will be marking the occasion with the second annual Black History Youth Awareness Festival. The free event, which will be held Feb. 17 from 4 to 9 p.m., will highlight the artistic and entrepreneurial talents of South Florida youth and feature live performances and food. 170 N.W. Fifth Ave., Delray Beach, 561/279-8838, spadymarketplace.org

AARON BRISTOL

Highly trained experts at Marcus Neuroscience Institute, established at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, are leading the way in neurological research and advanced therapies, but neuroscience research is not just about learning and discovery. It’s about taking better care of patients. That’s why we take a personalized approach to treatment, delivered with the compassionate care you expect from Baptist Health.

Learn more at BRRH.com/MarcusNeuroscienceInstitute or call 561-955-4600.

BAPTIST

SAMUEL RIVAS

EMILIANO

BROOKS

Chick-fil-A catered a teen photography showcase for the Achievement Centers for Children & Families (ACCF) as part of the Do Good Delray event series. All pictures submitted by the aspiring photographers will appear in the 2023 ACCF calendar.

The Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce kicked off the Do Good Delray event series aimed at strengthening the ties between local nonprofits and businesses with a breakfast gathering that established the monthlong event’s partnerships.

Pictured: Judy Sowards, Lynn Van Lenten, Sarah Mears, Carolina Rush and Stephanie Immelman from the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Pebb Capital, the investment firm behind Delray’s Sundy Village project, raised more than $12,000 for elementary, middle and high schools across Delray during their back-toschool donation drive. Pictured: Pebb Capital Executive Todd Benson, Principal Latoya Dixon and Pebb Capital Executive Adam Schmitt.

Delray’s Kindness Angels joined with volunteers to host a cereal drive and collected more than 500 boxes of cereals for kids in the Achievement Centers for Children & Families’ summer camp program.

The Junior League of Boca Raton’s Learning Libraries committee donated 350 books to two teachers at Whispering Pines Elementary in Boca Raton and Plumosa School of the Arts in Delray Beach. Pictured: Ami Zak, Valentina Moretti and Leaha Weidenhamer

BY JOHN THOMASON

Top 5

The New Year is alive with innovative plays, bold concerts and arts festivals

Science

Michael Feinberg Trio

WHEN: Jan. 8, 7 p.m.

WHERE: Arts Garage, 94 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach

COST: $35-$40

CONTACT: 561/450-6357, artsgarage.org

A contemporary jazz bassist of the highest order, Michael Feinberg is a graduate of the University of Miami’s esteemed music school, where it didn’t take him long to make his mark: By the end of his sophomore year, at age 19, he had recorded his debut album, Harajuku, named after an eclectic and progressive region of Japan. He has continued to absorb worldly and diverse musical influences into his omnivorous oeuvre, with its equal footing in the pop world and the avant-garde, and its integration of rock ‘n’ roll and hip-hop grooves into the language of jazz. Feinberg is a diligent student of the pioneering jazz drummer Elvin Jones, forming the Elvin Jones Project in 2012 to re-interpret the master’s work. Keen ears will also pick up influences like McCoy Tyner and John Coltrane in Feinberg’s rich and sonorous playing. With his trio, he follows the lead of piano virtuoso Keith Jarrett in revisiting American Songbook classics with invigorating new arrangements.

“The Science of Leaving Omaha”

WHEN: Feb. 1-19

WHERE: Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St., West Palm Beach COST: $64-$84 CONTACT: 561/514-4042, palmbeachdramaworks.org

As its title suggests, this latest work by prolific playwright Carter W. Lewis centers on two people who would love nothing more than to leave behind the drudgery of their lives in Omaha, Nebraska. The character that connects them has already left, in a way: The play is set in a crematorium, where Ruth-Ellen lies on a slab. She was fatally shot the night before in a bungled bar robbery. Now, her 22-going-on-17-year-old husband Baker, who escaped the eventful evening alive, has broken into the funeral home to “say goodbye.” It’s all a bit much for Iris, the 18-year-old high-school dropout working the night shift at the mortuary, who was expecting a quiet night, surrounded by the sort of people who never speak, so she could work on her school readmission exam. Instead, these strangers find shared solace in their working-class struggles and unfriendly hometown. Leaving plenty of space for humor and compassion, “The Science of Leaving Omaha” concludes with what one writer called “an ending of almost operatic majesty.”

Martha Redbone: “Bone Hill”

WHEN: Feb. 25-26, 8 p.m. Saturday, 1:30 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach COST: $35 and up CONTACT: 561/833-8300, kravis.org

A singular force of nature, soul singer Martha Redbone is the product of both her indigenous heritage and her mentorship in the trenches of ‘70s funk. Born in New York City and raised in large part by her Native American grandparents in Black Mountain, Kentucky, Redbone trained under the tutelage of Junie Morrison of the Ohio Players and Parliament-Funkadelic. Since her 2001 debut Home of the Brave, she has specialized in a gumbo of influences, performing songs espousing her First Nations heritage with the sort of ecstatic, percussive grooves of 20th century Black American music. Redbone is continually full of cultural surprises; her landmark 2012 release The Garden of Love, for instance, set poems of William Blake to new arrangements inspired by her Appalachian upbringing. In “Bone Hill: The Concert,” she explores the myriad musical avenues that have affected her life and work, from Cherokee chants to bluegrass, R&B, gospel, jazz and rock ‘n’ roll.

“The

of Leaving Omaha”

Martha Redbone

Michael Feinberg Trio

January/February 2023

South Florida Garlic Fest

WHEN: Feb. 4-5, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Village Park Athletics Complex, 11700 Pierson Road, Wellington COST: $15-$50

CONTACT: 561/279-0907, garlicfestfl.com

This year’s annual Garlic Fest has a country-fied flavor, at least in its choice of national headliner. Drake White, born and raised in the Appalachian foothill city of Hokes Bluff, Alabama—population 4,446—has forged his young career blending the popular conventions of country music with the iconic Muscle Shoals sound of his native state. The result is a soulful roots-music hybrid that appeals in equal measure to fans of Keith Urban, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Levon Helm and maybe even Bob Marley, whose impact can be heard in the tropical sounds occasionally complementing the twang. He takes the stage the first night of Garlic Fest, preceded by Florida country singer Cliff Dorsey, who takes inspiration from pioneers like Merle Haggard; and South Florida-based world/fusion guitarist Eric Hansen. Sunday’s entertainment features the Valerie Tyson Band, an eclectic variety band, along with openers Friday at Five and the Melina Soochan Trio. As always, the Gourmet Alley features more than 100 delicacies laced with the titular aromatic herb.

Things Equal: The Life and Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg”

WHEN: Feb. 15-19, various show times

WHERE: Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 N.W. Ninth St., Delray Beach COST: $49

CONTACT: 561/272-1281, delraybeachplayhouse.com

Everyone has an opinion, but few voiced theirs with the authority, intelligence and moral exactitude of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Appointed to the high court by President Clinton in 1993, Ginsburg’s legacy would transcend judicial circles—where her blistering dissents were absorbed with the depth and attention of literature—to leave its imprint on pop culture writ large. The years leading to her 2020 death yielded new insights into her biography and worldview, thanks to a much-heralded documentary film and a Hollywood biopic. Adding to this body of research is Tony-winning playwright Rupert Holmes’ posthumous one-woman show “All Things Equal,” in with Ginsburg, holding court in her chambers, shares a life of challenges overcome and glass ceilings broken. The play captures its subject’s trademark wit, compassion and directness, though we know how it ends; hence the show’s suggestion to “bring a hankie.”

“All Things Equal: The Life and Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg”

“All

Drake White

January/February 2023

NOW-JAN. 22: “HARD BODIES: CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE LACQUER SCULPTURE” at Society of the Four Arts, 100 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach; $10; 561/655-7226, fourarts. org. This sculpture exhibition showcases 33 works, mostly from this century, by 16 Japanese artists who explore lacquer in novel ways. A single tree produces only a half-cup of this lustrous coating per year, so each piece is a resplendent labor of love—a testament to the discipline and the rigor of countless hours of shaping raw material into forms both familiar and imaginative.

JAN. 5-8: “TAPESTRY: THE CAROLE KING SONGBOOK” at Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 N.W. Ninth St., Delray Beach; 8 p.m. Thurs.-Fri., 2 p.m. Sat.-Sun.; $45; 561/272-1281, delraybeachplayhouse.com. Tribute artist Suzanne O. Davis re-creates the music and atmosphere of a 1970s Carole King concert, performing King’s landmark album Tapestry along with selections from the prolific Goffin & King Songbook, which included hits for the Beatles, James Taylor, Aretha Franklin and more.

is reborn in this celebration of his music and legacy, honoring both his joyous, danceable songwriting and the confrontational politics that undergirded it. It is performed with a live Afrobeat band, singers and dancers whose rhythms replicate Kuti’s own, and vivid projected images complementing every note.

embodying just three of them—Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon and Betty Ford—in playwright Eric H. Weinberger’s insightful portrait of domestic life in the West Wing.

NOW-APRIL

2: “WASHI TRANSFORMED: NEW EXPRESSIONS

IN JAPANESE PAPER” at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach; $9$15 museum admission; 561/495-0233, morikami.org. Japan has been a leading nation in paper art for centuries, and “Washi Transformed” connects the past to the present. The exhibition highlights nine contemporary paper artists whose usage of the humble medium includes sculptures and installations as well as two-dimensional works.

JAN. 3-8: “HADESTOWN” at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; various show times; $40-$100; 561/832-7469, kravis.org. “Hadestown” is the brainchild of Vermont folksinger Anaïs Mitchell, whose source material is as ancient as 29 BCE: the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, and the former’s harrowing journey into a hedonistic underground to rescue the latter. Hermes, Persephone and, of course, Hades figure into the plot as well. The Broadway debut won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

JAN. 6: KEVIN BOZEMAN at Arts Garage, 94 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach; 8 p.m.; $30; 561/450-6457, artsgarage.org. Arts Garage kicks off its 2023 “Art of Comedy” series with a headlining set from Madison, Wis., comic Bozeman, whose accessible and relatable style of observational humor has won over audiences on Comedy Central, NBC and CBS. Self-described “slacker-chic” comedian John Charles opens the show.

JAN. 12-15: “ANN LANDERS: THE LADY WITH ALL THE ANSWERS” at Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 N.W. Ninth St., Delray Beach; various show times; $33-$39; 561/272-1281, delraybeachplayhouse.com. This solo play by David Rambo is set in 1975, as Eppie Lederer—better known as the pioneering advice columnist and proto-influencer Ann Landers—sets out to produce one of her most challenging columns. The play explores Lederer’s personality and legacy with warmth and humor.

JAN. 14: “FELA! THE CONCERT” at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 8 p.m.; $15-$95; 561/832-7469, kravis.org. Fela Kuti, composer, activist and Afrobeat pioneer,

JAN. 14-15: DOWNTOWN DELRAY BEACH FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS ON EAST ATLANTIC AVENUE IN DOWNTOWN DELRAY BEACH; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; free; 561/746-6615, artfestival. com. Hundreds of artists will line the Avenue at this 34th-annual winter tradition, in which painting, photography, glass art, mixed media, jewelry and fiber art will be exhibited and sold in an outdoor gallery spanning from U.S. 1 to A1A.

JAN. 15: JUDITH HILL at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 6 and 8:30 p.m.; $39 and up; 561/832-7469, kravis.org. With a voice as soulful and room-filling as that of Aretha Franklin or Mavis Staples, Hill launched her career on the shoulders of giants, from dueting with Michael Jackson on his planned final concert residency to working with co-producer Prince on her 2015 debut. Collaborations with Spike Lee and Josh Groban followed. She’s touring in support of her fourth album, Baby, I’m Hollywood!

JAN. 20-21: “TEA FOR THREE: LADY BIRD, PAT AND BETTY” at Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 N.W. Ninth St., Delray Beach; 7:30 p.m. Fri., 2 p.m. Sat.; $45; 561/272-1281, delraybeachplayhouse.com. Emmy-winning actor Elaine Bromka, who starred as no fewer than eight first ladies in PBS’ “The Presidents,” takes it easy in this solo performance,

JAN. 20-22: “MADAMA BUTTERFLY” at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 7:30 p.m. Fri.Sat., 2 p.m. Sun.; $25-$180; 561/8327469, kravis.org. In one of Puccini’s many masterworks, an opportunistic American naval officer in 1890s Japan courts a 15-year-old girl from Nagasaki, takes her as his wife, and forces her to abandon her family and her religion, only to callously dump her. This production marks the opening of Palm Beach Opera’s lavish season at the Kravis.

JAN. 24: CROCE PLAYS CROCE at Duncan Theatre at Palm Beach State College, 4200 S. Congress Ave., Lake Worth Beach; 8 p.m.; $99; 561/868-3309, duncantheatre.org. Singer-songwriter AJ Croce, who lost his famous balladeer father, Jim, at age 2, and then went blind at 4, has transformed setbacks into creative gold as a vocalist, guitarist and pianist. At this performance, he plays iconic songs by his father (“Operator,” “Time in a Bottle”), a few of his original compositions, and tunes that have inspired both Croces.

JAN. 25: MERZ TRIO at Duncan Theatre at Palm Beach State College, 4200 S. Congress Ave., Lake Worth Beach; 2 p.m.; $35; 561/868-3309, duncantheatre. org. This string trio has shared its space with puppeteers and chefs, film directors and dancers and, most prominently, poets: The award-winning group’s 2021 debut album, Ink, deconstructs Ravel’s Piano Trio in A minor of 1914, breaking it up into four movements interspersed with poetic spoken word from Jean Cocteau and others.

Miami City Ballet

Kevin Bozeman

Boyz II Men

“Tapestry: The Carole King Songbook” John Primer

JAN. 25: CHRIS BOTTI at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 8 p.m.; $29 and up; 561/832-7469, kravis.org. This trumpeter, whose smooth and deft sound is more than comfortable in jazz, pop and rock modalities, takes the stage with a full band. Recent collaborations with artists as diverse as Vince Gill, Barbra Streisand and John Mayer attest to Botti’s versatility.

JAN. 26: “THE GREATEST LOVE OF ALL: A TRIBUTE TO WHITNEY HOUSTON” at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 8 p.m.; $25 and up; 561/832-7469, kravis. org. This tribute concert celebrates the music and memory of the late R&B icon. Supplemented by a live band, backing vocalists and choreographed dancers, “The Greatest Love of All” replicates a Houston concert from the vocalist’s prime, a recreation fronted by South African singer and look-alike Belinda Davids.

JAN. 27: THORNETTA DAVIS at Arts Garage, 94 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach; 8 p.m.; $45-$50; 561/450-6457, artsgarage.org. Crowned “Detroit’s Queen of the Blues” in 2015, this acclaimed practitioner of traditional blues has opened for Ray Charles, Etta James and BB King, and has won more than 30 Detroit Music Awards. This concert marks her only tour appearance in Florida.

JAN. 27-FEB. 12: “SOMETHING’S AFOOT” at Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 N.W. Ninth St., Delray Beach; various show times; $42; 561/272-1281, delraybeachplayhouse. com. Did the butler do it? Find out for yourself in this musical comedy, a parody of Agatha Christie’s gothic mys-

teries in which an amateur sleuth (Miss Tweed) must solve a string of murders in a storm-weathered country estate.

JAN. 28-29: BLUE MAN GROUP at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 8 p.m. Sat., 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sun.; $29 and up; 561/8327469, kravis.org. Part percussionists, part clowns, part acrobatic showmen and part mimes, the Blue Man Group have been entertaining audiences with their performance art for the past 35 years. This tour features all-new music, choreography, stunts and audience interaction but adheres to BMG’s signature strengths: pounding drums and explosions of multicolored paint.

JAN. 29: STEVE FORBERT DUO at Arts Garage, 94 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach; 7 p.m.; $40-$45; 561/450-6457, artsgarage.org. Instrumental in the popularity of Americana music, Forbert brings 45 years of combining folk, roots-rock and country into a soulful and stirring musical blend. On guitar and harmonica, the energetic singer-songwriter is joined by electric guitarist George Naha to support his 2022 album Moving Through America

FEB. 4: BOYZ II MEN at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 8 p.m.; $39-$139; 561/8327469, kravis.org. Enormously influential in the velvety sound of 1990s R&B, Boyz II Men’s intricate vocal harmonies, wedded to hip-hop beats, galvanized audiences and critics to the tune of four Grammy Awards and more than 64 million albums sold worldwide. Founding member Nathan Morris still carries the torch with Shawn Stockman and Wanya Morris.

FEB. 6-14: “BROADWAY CELEBRATES THE BIG APPLE—A MUSICAL MEMORIES CONCERT” at Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 N.W. Ninth St., Delray Beach; various show times; $42; 561/272-1281, delraybeachplayhouse. com. It’s been said that more songs have been written for New York than were written for Frank Sinatra. This locally written and produced musical revue celebrates many of them, including Big Apple-centric hits from “Annie,” “West Side Story,” “The Producers” and more.

FEB. 7-12: “TOOTSIE” at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; various show times; TBA; 561/832-7469, kravis.org. Sydney Pollack’s 1982 film “Tootsie” was a watershed moment in American comedy—a modern narrative of gender-bending that lent mainstream credibility to a culture then relegated to the shadows. In this touring, Tony-winning Broadway adaptation, the protagonist auditions for a musical, allowing the story to double as a satirical critique of its own genre’s conventional tropes.

FEB. 10: “THE SPIRIT OF HARRIET TUBMAN” at Arts Garage, 94 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach; 8 p.m.; $30; 561/450-6457, artsgarage.org. Now celebrating its 25th year, this solo show by award-winning actor-playwright Leslie McCurdy channels the spirit of Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman, from childhood to old age, and with nothing but a trunk of costumes on a bare stage to supplement her vision.

FEB. 17-19: MIAMI CITY BALLET: “MODERN MASTERS” at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; various show times; $30-$115;

561/832-7469, kravis.org. Focusing solely on contemporary and modern choreographers, this program features the company’s first-ever ballet by Martha Graham (“Diversion of Angels,” her triptych of love in three of life’s phases); José Limón’s “The Moor’s Pavane,” inspired by Shakespeare’s “Othello”; and two commissioned premieres.

FEB. 18: STANLEY JORDAN PLAYS

JIMI at Arts Garage, 94 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach; 6 and 8:30 p.m.; $50-$55; 561/450-6457, artsgarage. org. Guitarist Jordan, most famous as a jazz artist—his 1985 breakthrough Magic Touch spent 51 weeks as No. 1 on the Billboard charts—returns to his roots as a rock artist with this searing and inventive tribute to hero Jimi Hendrix, featuring reimagined orchestrations and evocative costumes.

FEB. 18-19: DOWNTOWN DELRAY BEACH CRAFT FESTIVAL at Fourth and Atlantic avenues; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; free; 561/243-1077, artfestival.com. More than 100 of the nation’s most talented artisans will offer a variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, clothing and more, all handmade in America, at this third-annual downtown gathering.

FEB. 25: JOHN PRIMER at Arts

Garage, 94 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach; 8 p.m.; $45-$50; 561/450-6457, artsgarage.org. Having trained under mentor Muddy Waters, Primer was a fixture in the legendary Chicago blues scene of the 1950s and ‘60s, and has recorded on 87 albums, including 17 under his own name. He continues to perform the ragged classics of Chicago blues with grit and authenticity.

Sculpture from “Washi Transformed” Thornetta Davis “Fela!” “Spirit of Harriet Tubman”

Take The Edge Off

Rounded forms and curvaceous shapes are still big news in the design world, as they ease elegance and comfort into rooms throughout the home.

Sklar Furnishings Option bed

“People usually live in geometric spaces with sharp lines, edges and corners. The natural world tends to be curvier. The curves we use in our pieces soften the hardened edges of our interiors. They should feel more organic and bring reassurance and serenity.”

Ross Hamilton, Founder, Hamilton Conte

1. Edgewater Lounge Chair, $1,498, Serena & Lily, Palm Beach, serenaandlily. com 2. Oliver Sofa and Seven Cocktail Table by Hamilton Conte, to the trade, J Nelson Inc., jnelsoninc.com 3. Organic bronze valet tray, $99, from Delray’s Vee Merklen, Inc., veemerklen.com 4. Newton White Console, $19,980, Boca do Lobo, bocadolobo.com 5. Harrison Bench, $2,395, Jayson Home, jaysonhome.com 6. Luna Fresca Blanket Roll, $86, Caminito, caminito.co 7. Clyborne Textured Ceramic Vases, $70 each, Crate & Barrel, Boca Raton, crateandbarrel.com 8. Calanova In/Outdoor Coffee Table by Palecek, price upon request, Clive Daniel, Boca Raton, clivedaniel.com 9. 60-inch Round Dining Table, price upon request, Clive Daniel, Boca Raton, clivedaniel.com

Presented by The Schmidt Family Centre for the Arts outdoors in Mizner Park Amphitheater, Boca Raton – Constantine Kitsopoulos, Music Director. Sponsored in part by the Tourist Development Council and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

Akira Back

A globe-trotting, Michelin Star-winning chef sets up shop in the heart of Delray Beach

Delray’s booming dining scene got an exciting new addition this summer with the debut of Akira Back’s namesake restaurant in The Ray Hotel. The Michelin Star-winning chef’s latest outpost, featuring modern Japanese dishes blended with Korean-inspired flavors, has generated quite the buzz among South Florida foodies. While Back’s concepts are now popping up around the world, his initial foray into the restaurant business was more unorthodox than the average restaurateur.

When Akira Back and his family moved to Aspen, Colorado from Seoul, South Korea, Back was 13 years old. As a teenager in a new country where he didn’t speak the language, the transition was difficult. But he soon took notice of what other kids his age were doing and found where he fit into this strange new environment. “In Aspen, all the cool kids were snowboarders,”

ranging from the Dalai Lama to Bill Clinton. But Back says that for him, his favorite customers are the ones right in front of him.

“I’ve enjoyed cooking for these notable names and getting the opportunity to meet some people that inspire me throughout my career, but my favorite stories come from the new guests that taste my food for the first time when we open in a new city.”

Back’s culinary journey has taken him all over the world, but no matter the location of a new and exciting debut, he still brings the influence of his family and Korean heritage to the table. “My mother always cooked, and family dinners were very big in my home,” he says. “A lot of the recipes you see on my menu are directly from her or a twist on inspiration from her.”

Back says that this inspiration can be found in his Delray concept, specifically in the Jeju Domi dish, a delectable pairing of snapper sashimi with

says Back, “so I learned snowboarding to make friends and learn English, and I eventually became a professional sponsored snowboarder.”

Back spent seven years on the professional snowboarding circuit, all while working at local Aspen restaurants to supplement his income. During this time, he discovered an exhilaration for cooking that rivaled the thrill of speeding down wintery slopes. After suffering injuries from snowboarding, Back realized that a long-term career in extreme sports might not be viable. He decided he needed a new plan.

“There was a local restaurant where all the cool people hung out to drink and have fun,” says Back. “I knew the owner and asked him for a job, and he started me at the lowest position.” From mopping floors and cutting vegetables, Back worked his way up to an executive chef position, and in 2008 opened his very own concept, the Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Since opening his first restaurant, Back has gone on to win several culinary awards and has made appearances on high-profile cooking shows including “Iron Chef America” and Food Network’s “Best Thing I Ever Ate.” He’s cooked for dignitaries and diplomats, celebrities and presidents,

marinated masago, red sorrel and sweet and spicy chojang sauce. “Like any good Korean, my father used to eat sashimi with chojang sauce,” says Back. “One time he offered me snapper with this sauce, and this is when I finally started to enjoy raw fish.”

With several new restaurant openings in the pipeline, Akira Back doesn’t get to make it out to the slopes of Aspen as much as he’d like to. But he’s still managed to find in Delray the things that he loved most about the small Colorado ski town. “I was drawn to Delray Beach because it reminds me a lot of Aspen in the sense that the people are laid-back and down to earth,” says Back. “I’m an avid tennis fan, and I love the active lifestyle of the community.”

Despite being a Michelin Star chef and developing a global culinary brand, Back says he feels his life hasn’t changed all that much. If anything, he says, the accolades just motivate him even further to create and share his culinary concoctions. As the Akira Back name continues to expand throughout the U.S. and as far as London and the Middle East, the acclaimed chef hopes to instill in his customers the same joy he feels from his craft. “I want people to have fun and truly enjoy every experience they have with us, from the service to the food and the ambience and more.”

“I’ve enjoyed cooking for [some] notable names and getting the opportunity to meet some people that inspire me throughout my career, but my favorite stories come from the new guests that taste my food for the first time when we open in a new city.”

ERIC GEORGE

Danny Goldsmith

This 21st-century watch merchant keeps time in Delray

For luxury watch retailer Danny Goldsmith, it’s important he dresses his part. “I’m a suit-and-tie kind of guy,” he says. “I feel like when I’m wearing a suit and tie, I’m ready to take on the world.”

Yet when he sat down for an interview with Delray magazine, he let his hair down, so to speak. It was inventory day at Goldsmith & Complications, his second-story boutique in downtown Delray Beach. With no other appointments on the docket, Goldsmith, a youthful 50, sported a backwards baseball cap, a Grateful Dead T-shirt and shorts. A tattoo of an octopus splashed around on his left leg; classic hip-hop piped from a speaker in the customer lounge. It gets his blood pumping.

Part of the appeal of Goldsmith & Complications is the juxtaposition of luxury and geek-chic, of lowbrow and highbrow. In the lounge, shoppers can enjoy an array of single-malt whiskies while perusing an elaborate

for watches in his early 20s at a trade show, when he noticed a Rolex Daytona on the wrist of one of his father’s clients. “It was one of the holy grail watches in the industry,” he recalls. “It sang to me. It shook me at the core.

“But it wasn’t until my mid-30s that I really started getting a passion for the lesser-known brands, like the independents—the smaller guys that make 30 watches a year. … That’s my passion—to find that unknown watchmaker and cultivate them, introduce them to everyone, help them grow.”

Goldsmith started his business on the wholesale side as a traveling salesman, at one point working 88 accounts in 14 states. Despite a lack of a marketing budget, he ended up selling luxury watches to athletes and celebrities—George Lopez and D.L. Hughley among them—on the strength of Instagram posts and word of mouth. “It snowballed from there,” he says. “I started building up a clientele.”

It took the pandemic reset for Goldsmith, a native New Yorker, to shift

desktop timepiece that resembles the title space station in “Deep Space 9,” a Lucite baseball bat filled with vintage watch parts, or a table clock shaped like a Ferrari. In an adjoining room, on purple wallpaper, a neon sign blazes with the phrase “tick tock mothaf***a,” a reference to a colorful quote from a Samuel L. Jackson movie. He says his suppliers from Switzerland love to take pictures with it.

For all of its eccentric touches, Goldsmith is serious about his business, which can involve serious profits. That Swiss Ferrari clock is one of only 100 on the planet, and it retails at $42,500. Goldsmith moves wristwatches, new and pre-owned, for upwards of six figures. His coup de grace? In 2019, he sold an Urwerk AMC atomic clock-powered wristwatch for $2.75 million. It’s one of only three in existence. A picture of it, housed in a case that looks like it could contain the nuclear codes, hangs proudly in Goldsmith & Complications.

“I’m all about relationships,” he says, of his sales success. “You treat people the way you want to be treated. I don’t know any other way.”

The son of New York jewelry merchants, Goldsmith developed his interest

just about everything in his life. Now married with a son, he decided to switch to direct retail, and wavered between a move to Santa Monica, California, or Delray Beach. He chose Delray, inspired by a memorable visit to the city back in 2019.

“We rented a house, sight unseen, FaceTiming,” he says. “It just felt different. I felt there wasn’t a weight on my chest. I fell in love with it. … It was the wildest thing I’d ever done.”

He occasionally holds public events at his boutique, complete with European exhibitors touting their latest watches, all part of his efforts to “put Delray on the map as a watch destination.”

And watches, so far, have proven to be a recession-proof business. “The last six years have been something we’ve never seen in this market before,” he says. “If you walk to a Mayors, their watch showcases are empty. Watches that retail for $10,000 can be going for $70,000, $80,000. It’s been a wild ride.

“With a watch, for a gentleman, it’s a staple,” he continues. “I could easily look at my cellphone for the time, and sometimes I do. But there’s nothing like having that wristwatch on. … It’s definitely here to stay.”

“I’m all about relationships. You treat people the way you want to be treated. I don’t know any other way.”

Beauty expert Skyler burst onto the scene just a few years ago after graduating college and hasn’t come up for air since. Her dedicated, nonstop training has evolved into a thriving career with expertise that includes licensing as an esthetician, makeup artist, permanent makeup artist and scalp micropigmentation artist.

In keeping with the latest, greatest technology and demand, Skyler delivers the most divine eyebrows utilizing the Ombré brows technique performed with a machine instead of a knife. The brows last one to three years before they fade away naturally. The procedure creates more natural-looking results, is softer on the skin and doesn’t create scar tissue. For a pretty pout, you can kiss those lipsticks goodbye with the lip blush technique that provides a semi-permanent lip tint that also lasts one to three years.

Another game changer in Skyler’s repertoire is tattoo removal, which comes as a blessing for so many who regret the ink they had applied previously, or has faded into undesirable, unattractive hues; bye bye blue brows, hello natural-looking tones with Skyler’s magic touch!

Skyler has also recently completed her laser and electrolysis license, offering hair-free, carefree smoothness for those bothersome areas.

Every client is a canvas for Skyler, who delights in the subtle to sensational transformations that make them look and feel fabulous in the skin they’re in, whether for just one glamorous night or years to come. See what Skyler can do to transform your looks and create a new you!

Skyler Ruth

Licensed Permanent Make-up Artist and Esthetician Sky Cosmetic Creations, LLC

When clients visit the Anti Aging Center of Boca, founded by Nina Presman, they can be certain they will receive the most advanced, expert care and treatments available.

The revolutionary body sculpting technology, Ageless Beauty, takes High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), Acoustic Lipoliser and Ultrasound Cavitation to a new level.

“When I started my center in 2014, I focused on my own body and face sculpting,” Nina says. “My goal was to create a process that would allow me to look as young outside as I felt inside and reverse the signs of aging on my face and body.”

Now, she says, she looks better at 59 than she did at 35, thanks to this technology.

“When we stop producing collagen at 30, and the dormant fat cells under the skin start filling up between ages 40 to 45, gravity starts pulling the skin down, causing the drooping and sagging look,” Nina explains.

Alfa Lypolysis with HIFU (which can be utilized all over the body) completely liquifies and melts the undesired fat cells on all levels, resulting in immediate and permanent loss of inches, and lifts and rejuvenates the skin, building collagen, without any side effects, pain or downtime.

“We are so sure and confident in the results that we’ve adopted the policy: If you don’t lose, you don’t pay!”

561-654-0177

antiagingcenterofboca.com

MIA Kitchen & Bar

MIA may be the most exciting dining destination west of I-95

In the restaurant biz, success has been said to be tied to location, location, location. Well, you have to serve good food, too. Miles from the trendy side of east Delray Beach, owner Joey Lograsso and chef Jason Binder have curated a balanced choreography of fascinating yet approachable dishes that are on par with award-wining Miami restaurants. For those living west of I-95 who crave exceptional food without having to drive too far in another direction, MIA Kitchen (pro nounced Mia, not M.I.A. like the airport acronym) is a gold mine.

Binder, a Culinary Institute of America grad who previously was the chef de cuisine at Brulé Bistro, created a menu that travels the world from Italy to Asia and showcases his formal training with elevated dishes that are exceptionally executed, which makes it extremely difficult to decide what to order. The service is also comparable. Our waiter was kind and attentive, making us feel at ease and welcomed.

Once you order, sit back and relax. MIA Kitchen is vibey, with a great playlist. 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. If you want something a bit quieter, opt for the outdoor covered patio, especially now during our glorious Florida winter months.

Artichokes are hit or miss for

me. When the Fire Roasted Artichokes ($17) arrived, they resembled a piece of art—two beautiful flowers on display. The charred artichokes with a delightful fire essence are topped with breadcrumbs, Parmesan and lemon zest aioli. Soft and delicate, they were a far cry from the tough and stringy or mushy preparations I’ve had. I love a good crunch, and the fried capers, breadcrumbs, celery leaf and raw red onions that bedecked the Filet Mignon Carpaccio ($22) added a wonderful texture to the paper-thin meat. It didn’t really need the truffle aioli and perfectly cooked sunny side egg,

A family recipe, the Branzino Evon ($38) made my soul sing. I love ginger and cilantro, and this steamed fish, prepared in a Cantonese style, was bursting with both. The tender skin-on filet sits over fluffy rice that effortlessly soaks up the fish soy, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite. While the menu states that the Wild Shrimp Pasta ($37) is prepared in a cream sauce, it wasn’t soaked in it (which I appreciate), and the sherry elevated it completely. A hearty portion of perfectly al dente linguini, the dish is completed with peas and shallots that give it a slight crunch and lightly grilled jumbo shrimp. If possible, save room for dessert. Our sweet conclusion to the evening was the S’mores Crème Brûlée ($12), which was a silky chocolate mousse with the caramelized top. It’s a must try for chocoholics.

Above, branzino; below, wild shrimp pasta

Daniel Ramos

Still Farming

Our area agriculture is still alive and well—and thriving through smaller growers and makers

BY RICH POLLACK

hey are the “mom and pop” versions of agriculture in Palm Beach County: small farms or plant nurseries led by couples or tight-knit families, often transforming what started out as a hobby and building it into a business.

You’ll find them online presenting everything from gourmet mushrooms to one-of-a-kind bromeliads, from homemade fruit vinegars to unfamiliar herbs and 20 varieties of smoking hot peppers. You’ll also see several at the Delray GreenMarket, where regular customers search for them each year.

Though they face an abundance of obstacles—some from Mother Nature and some from man—each of these growers say they wouldn’t want to be doing anything else. Here are their stories.

Daniel Ramos

RED SPLENDOR FARMS

Daniel Ramos knows better than most chefs that the herbs, greens and edible flowers he uses to enhance his gourmet meals are fresh—because he probably harvested them just a few hours earlier on his Red Splendor Farm. Trained at Florida Culinary Institute and working as a chef at some of the area’s most prestigious country clubs and popular restaurants, Ramos is a rare breed, blending his newfound love for growing food with his well-honed skills preparing it.

“It’s just a dream come true for a chef to grow food and then use that same food in a meal,” says Ramos, who hosts farm-to-table dinners using only what’s grown on his two-and-a-half-acre farm west of Lake Worth Beach.

Ramos quickly learned that farming could be just as physically draining as working long restaurant hours. “The effort it takes to harvest every herb is harder than a 16-hour day in the kitchen,” he says. Ramos’ path from full-time chef to full-time farmer and part-time chef is one filled with serendipity and even a few curves. In 2015, the chef de cuisine at Quail Ridge County Club in Boynton Beach stumbled into a chance to start a business with a partner making whole-hog organic sausage and bone broth, which was sold at green markets.

With his background in meats, Ramos was later recruited by friends to become a partner in the Butcher & the Bar gastropub in

Boynton Beach, where he served as the executive chef. By June of 2021, Ramos was ready to move on. It was about that time that his wife’s aunt, Melodye Abell, who owned Abell’s Nursery for decades, decided she wanted to create a fresh-herb farm. Ramos jumped in to help, and was hooked. “I said, ‘I could do this every day,’ and by the end of August I was starting a farm,” he says.

The focus at Red Splendor Farm is on herbs, but mango trees are also abundant, and you’ll find heirloom tomatoes growing on the property as well. Red Splendor also produces 20 different varieties of hot peppers.

The herbs Ramos grows are not ones you would typically find in a grocery store. There are 75 different varieties of herbs on the farm, 12 varieties of mint, including Kentucky Colonel Mint, which Ramos says is perfect for a mint julep. Other favorites are African blue basil and lemon thyme. The herbs can be used in cooking, but they are also good for teas and even ice cream. In addition to selling the herbs at the green market—as well as some plants—Ramos also sells herbs and greens to local restaurants.

Trading in his straw hat for his chef’s hat, Ramos does farm-to-table dinners at Palm Beach Meats in West Palm Beach and also in-home farm-to-table dinners where he uses only items found on the farm.

“Adding an herb is the quickest way to elevate a dish,” he says.

Small Farm Agribusiness

There was a time, not that long ago, when smaller farms in South Florida could survive just by taking their produce to market. Each year, however, with prices rising, increased competition and additional layers of regulations, local farmers have come to understand that just depending strictly on produce sales won’t pay the bills.

Instead, local family farmers are finding that attracting people to the farm for special events or family adventures generates additional dollars that help them stay afloat.

“You cannot just grow food anymore if you’re a small farm,” says Jodi Swank, who along with her husband, Darrin, has been running Swank Specialty Produce in Loxahatchee Groves since 1996. “You have to keep the farm evolving.”

With that in mind, the Swanks have moved toward what some call agritourism, bringing people out to the property for events such as the Swank Table dinners, where up to 200 people can enjoy a multi-course al fresco dinner in their massive pole barn, with some proceeds benefiting a local charity. During the pandemic, when local green markets on public properties were closed, the Swanks created a Saturday farmer’s market, which now attracts a couple of dozen vendors. Just this year, Jodi Swank added farmhouse wine dinners in which a chef is brought in to create a gourmet dinner paired with a vintage from an upscale winery.

“Produce sales were the No. 1 source of income for years,” Swank says, adding now that the revenue received from 10 sold-out wine dinners tops what they bring in through sales of produce grown on the 20-acre farm.

Down the road from Swanks, on U.S. Highway 441 west of Boynton Beach, Bedner’s Farm draws thousands from throughout South Florida for its U-pik-ems and pumpkin patch events. The Bedner family still grows familiar crops like bell peppers, cucumbers and corn on the 80 acres. They also still cultivate another 200 acres in Palm Beach County to produce an assortment of Florida winter vegetables. Still, it is the strawberry u-pick that gets the most attention. Bedner’s has continued to evolve, opening retail outlets where it sells farm-grown produce and other items in stores in Delray Beach and recently in West Palm Beach.

Marie Bedner says that keeping the business strong requires constant adjustments.

“It’s about evolving and listening to customers,” she says.

Jon and Nikole Lallier

BRILLIANT BROMELIADS

There are bright bromeliads that will catch your eye at home improvement warehouse stores or garden centers. Then there are the bromeliads that you’ll discover Jon and Nikole Lallier growing west of Delray Beach. “I have bromeliads that no one else has,” Jon Lallier says. “They are the only ones in the United States.”

What you’ll find growing at their fledgling business, Brilliant Bromeliads, are plants with vibrant colors and descriptive names such as Tigerama, Tears of Fire and Marble Throat. Had you had told Jon Lallier a few years ago that he would become enamored enough with bromeliads to start to grow them, first as a hobby and then as a business, he would have shaken his head in disbelief. That changed, however, after he took ownership of a plant given to him by his mother-in-law, who was running out of room for all her own bromeliads.

“It all started with just one hand-me-down,” he says.

As his mother-in-law continued giving him a plant here and there, Lallier grew increasingly intrigued. “Each plant is like a piece of art,” he says. “I love art and I like colors.”

The more he learned about bromeliads, the more he wanted more. “I was fascinated by the fact that each plant had its own name,” he says.

Eventually, Lallier visited a bromeliad collector in Deerfield Beach, Lee Magnuson, who had amassed more than 3,000 plants. Magnuson quickly took the amateur enthusiast under his wing and is now a partner in Brilliant Bromeliads. After he was given a few more plants, Lallier began buying bromeliads and going to shows, where he would see what others had been growing.

Eventually he learned how to create new colors and patterns of plants through hybridization, and the collection began growing, to the point where he has about 40 shade tables at the Delray Beach location and somewhere between 400 and 500 bromeliads.

There are also as many as 4,000 plants at a growing station in Pompano that is part of Brilliant Bromeliads’ collections.

“This is just a hobby that we’ve been growing into a business,” says Nikole Lallier, who handles much of the business side of Brilliant Bromeliads, while Jon handles the growing side. Since the business launched in April of 2021, the Lalliers have created a website and have been traveling the state to shows, where they sell mostly to high-end collectors searching for unique plants.

Unique plants, Lallier says, can sell for as much as $500, with some fetching even more. Although the business is growing, both Jon and Nikole continue to work at day jobs, with him working at his family’s car wash business and Nikole working as a probate paralegal. Eventually they hope the business will be strong enough so they can tend to it full-time. In the interim, they’re continuing to discover more about the art of cultivating new plants and sharing that knowledge.

“We want to go out and teach people about these plants,” Jon Lallier says.

For Lallier the hobby-turned-business continues to be a chance to create in living color.

“It’s not even work,” he says. “It’s just fun.”

Darrin and Jodi Swank

Right, Jon Lallier

Joseph Chammas

GRATITUDE GARDEN FARM

Joseph Chammas was enjoying the good life, capitalizing on his knowledge of three languages while working in the world of high finance for a private equity firm. Then came stage IV colon and liver cancer and toxic treatments that Chammas says almost killed him—more than once. Taking matters into his own hands, Chammas started learning about the medicinal value of certain foods, and soon began growing his own plants.

“Before you knew it, every inch of the front yard, the backyard and the side yard had raised beds,” he says.

Now, a dozen years later, Chammas and his wife, Tawna, have taken what they learned as he fought off cancer and transformed it into Gratitude Garden Farm, an organic farm on five acres in Loxahatchee Groves. Here the couple grow an eclectic mix of fruits and vegetables as well as nine varieties of gourmet mushrooms—including lion’s mane and oyster mushrooms— that they provide to mostly high-end restaurants. They are also available at five local greenmarkets, including the Delray Beach GreenMarket.

You’ll also find several varieties of microgreens—the first few leaves of a plant, which are packed with nutrients—as well as medicinal mushroom extract and turmeric extract, which can be used as a supplement to address a variety of health issues including arthritis and allergies. The farm is also where the couple grows as many as 35 organic vegetables, including tomatoes, squash and peppers, as well as four varieties of turmeric. A fruit orchard on the farm nets five different varieties of bananas, 10 varieties of mangoes and three varieties of avocados. And tucked away on the property is a small, 350-squarefoot cabin that Chammas and Tawna call home. An entrepreneur with a valet business as well as a company that supplied vending machines with healthy food, Chammas never imagined farming would become a way of life.

“I did it as a form of survival,” he says.

Since they started the farm in 2015, Joseph and Tawna have seen steady growth, evolving to meet changing demands and to keep the farm financially viable—no easy task.

“It used to be simple—just me, my wife and one guy,” he recalls, adding that now there are as many as eight employees working on the farm at any given time. While Chammas will tell you that farming is now in his blood, he’s quick to point out that it’s not an easy life.

“A lot of people have a very romanticized idea of what we do,” he says. “In reality, it’s 100 hours a week just to get ahead.”

Farming also comes with risks, many brought on by Mother Nature, including weather.

“An iguana can climb a power pole, trip a transformer and we lose $20,000 worth of mushrooms,” he says.

To minimize risk, Chammas is making changes to his property. He is building a farmhouse amid the fruit orchard—so he and Tawna can move out of the cramped cabin. Down the road he hopes to create a wellness retreat, where people can come to the farm and learn about a healthy way of living. “We get to live the life everybody else wishes they could,” Chammas says. “We’re farmers, and it keeps us healthy. We live, work and eat in our own space.”

Joseph Chammas

AARON BRISTOL

Crystal Clark and Sean Wertheim

DOOR 2 DOOR MICROGREENS

The sign on their booth at the Delray GreenMarket capsulizes Crystal Clark’s and Sean Wertheim’s philosophy about the relationship between fresh vegetables and health in just three words: “Food is Medicine”.

For the past few years, the couple that runs Door 2 Door Microgreens has shared that concept with market guests who come to learn about the microgreens they nurture on their property west of West Palm Beach. “Our goal has always been to make the public healthy,” says Wertheim, who spent 28 years managing produce for Whole Foods Market.

Fresh microgreens, they both say, as well as the vinegar they produce from fruit trees on their land, are key to helping people improve their health.

“Microgreens are the fastest way to get vitamins,” Clark says. “It’s like vegetables on steroids.”

Essentially the first few leaves of a vegetable plant, microgreens are packed with vitamins that are easier for the human body to metabolize than parts of a mature plant. A cup of broccoli microgreens, Clark says, has the same nutritional value as two-and-a half pounds of the mature vegetable. Clark and Wertheim grow several different varieties of microgreens, including purple cabbage, cantaloupe and broccoli.

Their microgreens are used in a variety of ways, frequently in salads, but they can also be ingredients in smoothies or even teas. While microgreens are nutritious, they also require a lot of special care and attention, in part because they are a tender crop, subject to external conditions, especially with the humidity here in Florida.

Microgreens won’t stay fresh quite as long as more mature greens, and as a result Clark and Wertheim refrigerate the greens and bring them to market soon after they’ve been picked. “It’s a lot of work,” says Wertheim.

Creating homemade vinegar from their fruit trees is no easy task, either, Clark says. It can take up to two months to create vinegars made from mangos, star fruit, passion fruit and even watermelon. “The homemade vinegar is a great companion piece to a microgreen salad,” she says. Like some other small farmers, Clark and Wertheim began growing microgreens for their own health and then realized they had the makings of a business.

“We couldn’t eat all the microgreens we were growing,” recalls Clark, who battled with diabetes off and on.

While they agree that it can be difficult making ends meet growing such a perishable product, Clark and Wertheim say they are loving the lifestyle that comes with being small growers.

Sean Wertheim and Crystal Clark

AARON BRISTOL

The day-to-day lives of animals and the people who care for them is more than a drive through the park.

WRITTEN BY MARIE SPEED

t’s a sunny morning in Las Pampas. Lancelot the Aldabra tortoise, well into his 90s now, barely raises his head as we crawl by in our SUV. A light breeze ruffles the slash pines, distant ibis wheel overhead, and all is at peace here at Lion Country Safari.

Except for the million things that are really going on. We took a behind-the-scenes look at what is arguably Palm Beach County’s most beloved attraction with longtime PR Manager Haley McCann, who showed us a different perspective, from ill-tempered lady zebras to a very Zen chimp named Higgy, to love between the impalas and handsome Kawazi, a swoon-worthy lion.

The vast drive-through safari park, which must have been ranchland 60 years ago, is now divided into seven zones with exotic names like Ruaha National Park or the Kalahari Bushveldt, and is home to 900 animals. It was the first “cage-less zoo” when it opened in 1967, and it is known for its conservation efforts, working closely with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to achieve breeding herds, and even bring back some populations, like the scimitar-horned oryx, from the brink of extinction.

But what about the everyday drama? We asked McCann how things really work, from stormy weather to heartsick rhino love.

HOW THE DAY STARTS

This morning, we meet greater rhea Newman, who has enormous blue eyes; tiny impala calves newly born; an extremely handsome eland named Blue; and the new bongos, Makumi and Bacari. But it’s all in a morning’s drive-through for the keepers… “Each day, we have an early morning inspection and do a count. The keepers know their animals so well, they know where they like to lay down and how they like to sleep—for example, the chimps are on island habitats overnight. … The keepers know the chimps’ individual quirks or preferences; some chimps prefer to sleep on top of the shelter, some are in the shelter. So usually once you call their names they will in some way turn or acknowledge you. On cooler evenings in Florida’s winter, when they’re really bedded down in the hay and they don’t feel like really getting up in the morning, they’ll just stick an arm out of the hay bed and say, ‘I’m here, let me sleep, why are you bothering me?’”

WHO GETS TO WORK HERE?

“We have several keepers for the lion habitat, several keepers for the chimp habitat, antelope and hoof stock, rhino section. Our keepers have a variety of backgrounds; some have a lot of animal experience, some of them go to school specifically to be an animal keeper, and some have higher degrees in biology. They have quite diverse backgrounds.”

WHEN A BABY IS ON THE WAY

“When we see we are expecting a baby from an animal—our team is very good at recognizing those signs—we will relocate females to maternity areas, as they get closer to birth. We have maternity areas within the habitats, a quieter zone, that gives mom and baby a really good opportunity to bond as well.”

HOW YOU MOVE AN 8OO-POUND ANIMAL

“You’d be surprised how strong a motivator food is, either their regular food or extra-special treats. … and you just kind of herd them very slowly.”

Clockwise from above, Haley McCann; the entrance to Lion Country; a herd of rhinos; Newman, a greater rhea; herd of greater kudu and Makumi, eastern bongo

AARON BRISTOL

AND THEIR ANNUAL CHECK-UPS

“We keep detailed records on the animals under our care; those records start the day they are born. We will generally do a neonatal exam— we’ll weigh them to make sure they are healthy, and everybody gets some sort of ID number and a microchip.

We try to give everyone a health exam once a year, but at the same time we do not want to overstress an animal unnecessarily. We do routine health care “training” [practicing contact with animals through positive reinforcement, like food] with lions, rhinos, giraffes. These are massive species, so we do regular training with them, so if we need to do a blood test or something, it’s not stressful to them. We always pair it with positive reinforcement, so they’re coming up and choosing to participate, which gives us enough time to give them an injection or take a blood draw.”

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK

“Anytime we work with another accredited zoo—for example, to get a new male that will bring more diversity to the genetics of the herd—there’s a whole process that we go through. We only work with other zoos that are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums so we know they are reputable. The first thing we do is relocate them to an area and put them under a quarantine period. Even though there is health testing before they leave the facility, we just double check before we introduce them to other members of their species to make sure they don’t have any health issues that could be contagious or of concern to the other animals in the habitat.

Then we start with introductions to members of their species under supervision and for short periods of time.”

THE MANE ATTRACTION

There are nine lions at Lion Country Safari, and a newly expanded habitat. It’s the only fenced-in part of the park, and McCabe says they are beginning to “formulate their breeding pride,” with three groups of males and one group of females. There are strict safety procedures here, and iron bars on the windows of trucks of keepers who monitor the habitat all

COURTESY OF LION COUNTRY SAFARI

day. It’s tricky to introduce male lions to one another, a process underway right now with Masaba and his uncle, Atlas, whose son is K'wasi, generally considered drop-dead handsome and the heartthrob of the bunch.

“Lions are considered a Class I animal—an animal that would be a predator or dangerous— so there are strict protocols. They have their night house across the road. They go up there in the evenings and have their dinner there. There are nice little fans. They come out again first thing every morning. We actually have an elevated catwalk above the night pens so the keepers can control a series of doors to different areas.

We don’t want to introduce lions where we think there might be very serious fighting involved. That’s all part of the introduction process. We don’t move forward to the next step unless we’re seeing signs of behavior that they are ready to move forward and it’s not going to be a huge clash. But it’s super normal behavior for lions to scrap in the wild. Between females, between males, that’s standard lion behavior.

As they are establishing their hierarchy, they are going to have a little conflict and then they are going to decide who’s going to back down, who’s going to be dominant, but you can’t simply take two lions who don’t know each other at all and then just stick them together and expect it to go well. It’s not going to. It’s all about the slow, monitored introduction process. It’s all about being in tune with the behavior, knowing the animals you care for. Our lion keepers don’t need to even see who’s roaring; they know whose roar it is.”

RHINO LOVE AND AN AGING LOTHARIO

In an enclosure with its own shelter lives Buck, a “founding member” of the park who has been here since 1972. Buck is an aging rhino who, as is true for most male species, does not know how old he is when it comes to putting the moves on a girl. Which is partly why he gets to live out his golden years with plenty of TLC and privacy.

“Buck was a breeding male for many, many years. At this point he is in his early to mid-50s, which makes him one of the oldest rhinos in the country. Male rhinos are generally very solitary unless they are pursuing a female for mating.

Females are very tightly knit, and if they don’t feel like putting up with the males, they don’t

Clockwise, from top: lion cubs Atlas and Mara, part of the zebra herd, southern white rhinoceros Blossom with her baby Ruby, and K'wasi the lion

AARON BRISTOL

RICHARD GRAULICH/THE PALM BEACH POST VIA ZUMA WIRE

mind telling them that—in a very rhino way. At his age, with his arthritis and having slowed down, we don’t feel like he needs to deal with the level of drama that comes with a large group of female rhinos. We don’t want him to hurt himself trying to reproduce.

He also gets specialized geriatric care, [including] a spa day. [Rhinos can only roll in mud to protect their skin.] With his arthritis, he really can’t reach his back anymore, so his keepers will come in (rhinos are very tactile) and use scrub brushes; essentially, they are exfoliating him. We’ll also do the Skin So Soft, which has insect-repelling properties, and we finish with a nice little mudpack on his back. And then he gets to just rest and relax and nap the rest of the day. He is a really cool guy. …”

ZEBRAS CAN BE MEAN GIRLS

We always had an urge to nuzzle a zebra in its striped pajamas, but it turns out these are not the most friendly of animals, and the girls are always making trouble. In fact, throughout the course of our day, we learn there’s a lot of this sort of drama going on throughout Lion Country—and most of it revolves around either sex or food.

“[Herds of zebra have cliques] with ranking females, like lions. … There are a lot of things that go on, a lot of drama there as well.

We use the stripe patterns to identify the different zebras, and we have a book in our keeper complex that has a picture of every single zebra’s face in it, so if we’re trying to find a specific individual we can figure it out. Our dominant stallion, Billy Ray, is easy to tell apart because he has a different [short and spiky] mane from everybody else.”

RUBY BABY AND OTHER TALES OF LIFE

The newest zoo star, baby Ruby the rhino, was still in the maternity pen with her mother when we visited. But very cute and very sleepy.

“The rhinos come out of their night area every morning and voluntarily enter our chute system [part of the way keepers can readily access the animals]. We always do this kind of positive training with food involved. [It’s how] we do regular weights with the rhinos, quick checks of their feet, medication distribution or injections and blood draws. It’s very important

COURTESY OF LION COUNTRY SAFARI

when you’re dealing with an animal that weighs 4,000 pounds or so for us to safely be able to do this in a way that is not stressful on our staff or the animals. Thanks to that chute system we actually caught a rare kind of cancer in one of our rhinos that we were able to treat. She’s now in remission and has been for years. What initially presented as a little wound or abscess of her soft tissue outside of her horn turned out to be an enormous tumor that was growing in the soft tissue and up through the center of her primary horn.

Had we not had that good relationship and hands-on care with the rhinos, who knows if that would have been caught early enough to do something about it?”

MONKEY BUSINESS

The chimp islands are complex social groups, each headed by a male. And were once the home of the now-famous late Little Mama, of whom Jane Goodall was a fan—once the oldest known chimp in the world. Today, the oldest girl is Swing, 54. The chimps are cared for and observed by a team of professionals, including Dr. Tina Cloutier Barbour, a doctor of evolutionary psychology who specializes in chimpanzee aging.

“We do not put two alpha males on the same island at once—there would be a lot of aggression. The biggest challenge is just kind of keeping a finger on the pulse of their social systems because they are always fluctuating. And they are so important to their social systems, just keeping track of who’s angry with whom, what’s going on, who’s best friends this week and who’s in estrus—because that changes their behavior entirely. It’s like a constant soap opera/chess match.”

AND THE DOCTOR’S FAVORITE

Cloutier Barbour says, “I try not to have one. But then there’s Higgy on Island 3 over there. He’s just been such an influence on my life. He’s a magnificent alpha. Watching him work is a pleasure. For example, his group is going through some difficulties right now. Janice is younger, and she is trying to move up in rank over Jen, who is older and the matriarch of that group. There was some conflict between them earlier in the week, and Higgy—it’s like watching a maestro in an orchestra—he’s just ‘you’re allowed to come here but not this much closer’ or ‘you don’t look at her that way.’ The alpha’s job is to keep peace, even if there is some aggression.”

Clockwise, from top, Higgy, an island leader, Tuli, one of the park’s giraffes, Larry, a white-handed gibbon monkey, a group on one of the chimp islands, Dr. Tina Cloutier Barbour, and Irene carrying Tonk

AARON BRISTOL

COURTESY OF LION COUNTRY SAFARI

PARK WITH A HEART

“Lion Country Safari was the first one that implemented cardio mobile monitoring—and blood pressure monitoring as well," says Cloutier Barbour. “Cardiac disease is the No. 1 cause of mortality in chimpanzees—it seems to impact our male chimps more than the females.

Swing, our oldest chimp, was retired from a lab many years ago. There was a researcher named Linda Koebner who was really interested in figuring out if chimps could be rehabilitated and learn how to be chimps after being in laboratories. The only place that was willing to give that a try was Lion Country. So the initial six or seven retired laboratory chimps—Swing was one of them—came here to try to integrate with ‘normal’ chimps and be social. It was successful here. [After that] they were able to found the National Chimp Sanctuary and Save the Chimps and the Center For Great Apes.”

BASHFUL

Driving toward the giraffe herd, McCann says “The challenge of giraffes is working with their needs. Some of the giraffes are very particular. They are very wary. For example, when they are ready to walk through the chute they don’t even want you to look at them.

“They are also prone to heart-related concerns later in life, as the chimps are. Theirs is more related to the fact that their hearts have to work so hard to pump 6 feet against gravity to their heads.”

WEATHER WOES

“We have protocols and procedures for heat and cold and hurricanes,” McCann says.

“We don’t have much of an issue with extreme heat; the animals are mostly from climates that have high heat and humidity. … the rainforests of South America, the plains of Africa. We do like to give cold treats: frozen Crystal Lite ice pops for the chimps, blood popsicles for lions, to give them opportunities to cool off. Sometimes we’ll set up the sprinklers for the antelope and the alpacas.

“Our cold weather protocols mostly affect our smaller species and our reptiles. We don’t want our cold-blooded animals to be exposed to temperatures that are too cold, because they are more sensitive. So we’ll bring them into the building, provide extra food, extra hay bedding. For most of the animals here, though, it does not get cold enough that we have to adjust much.

“We train for hurricanes all year round [the regular health care training that brings animals into their houses pays off here with treats and activities], so the animals that have secure facilities such as the lions, the rhinos and the chimps will go to these secure facilities. The hoof stock has different protocols. Because they are prone to flight or panic if something weird is going on, it’s actually more dangerous to try to contain them in a barn where they could hit a wall or seriously injure themselves. So they have a natural instinct to go out in the center of the pasture, find the low spots, turn their rumps to the wind and get away from trees and buildings. We open up access to buildings to give them freedom of choice, and this reduces stress on them significantly, which is one of the major hazards for animals. They ride it out better than we do.”

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YOUNG FRIENDS OF THE KRAVIS CENTER KICK OFF

THE 2022-23 SEASON

WHAT: The Young Friends of the Kravis Center celebrated the venue’s 30th anniversary and the upcoming season of programs at a lavish cocktail reception on Oct. 12. More than 40 Young Friends were treated to a sneak peek at upcoming performances and events, and were able to take part in an exclusive backstage tour and have their photos taken on the grand stage. “This is a special year to honor our past, celebrate the present and look excitedly to a great future,” said Kravis Center CEO Diane Quinn. “I look forward to connecting with you throughout the season as we build our community through the live performing arts.” The Young Friends of the Kravis Center is a group of young professionals who support the mission of the Kravis Center and host several events throughout the year.

the Performing Arts

WHERE: Raymond F. Kravis Center for

Sonja Kelly, Ali Rehm

Bradley Hurston, Aisha Ali, Stephanie Glavin

Adam Gillam, Flavia and Victor Russo

Erica Haft, Brie Kluytenaar, Emily Starkey, Mary Allen Saunders

Joe Morello, Cayla Birk

WITCHES BREW

WHAT: Witches and warlocks alike gathered at Tim Finnegans Irish Pub ahead of the iconic annual Witches Ride through downtown Delray Beach. The Brew featured local John Brewer, who DJ’d the event and served as host for a night of cocktails and entertainment, which included a silent auction, raffles and contests. All proceeds from the Brew and the Witches Ride benefitted Delray’s Achievement Centers for Children & Families.

WHERE: Tim Finnegans Irish Pub in Delray

Henry and Steven Murphy

Julie Peyton, Kevin McNally

Jane Ratcliffe

Diane Brewer, Jessica Hall, John Brewer

Jessica Hall, Andie DeVoe, Tricia McFadden, Lynn Korp

IMPACT 100 PBC KICKS OFF NEW SEASON

WHAT: More than 250 members of Impact 100 gathered at Neiman Marcus at Town Center mall to celebrate the beginning of the nonprofit’s season of giving. Attendees enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and toasted another year of grant donations to fund nonprofit drives throughout Palm Beach County. Milagro Center President and CEO Barbara Stark served as the night’s speaker and talked poignantly about the tremendous difference Impact 100 made for the local organization last year when it received a grant. “Becoming an Impact 100 PBC grant award winner in 2020-21 tremendously helped Milagro Center transform into being seen as the quality after-school and summer camp program that we are,” said Stark.

Dana Weiss, Carrie Ruben, Megan Escamilla, Lauren Johnson

Kathryn Gillespie, Lisa Bariso, Michelle Bernado

Andrea Kline, Kerry Rod, Kimberly Boldt Cartwright

Margaret Blume, Patty Jones, Francis Bourque

WHERE: Neiman Marcus in Boca Raton

Judy Gursahane, Sue Diener

Marni Naiburg-Smith, Susan Lachance

Donna Glenn, JoAnne Greiser, Molly Reiss

Anne Boodheshwar, Ingrid Kennemer, Noreen Payne

Kimberly Boldt Cartwright, Jeannine Morris

Peg Anderson, Marilyn Swillinger, Julie Ott

Yvette Drucker, Robin Deyo

GEORGE SNOW SCHOLARSHIP FUND’S

ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC

WHAT: The George Snow Scholarship Fund’s Annual Golf Classic returned for its 33rd year on Oct. 3 at the Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club. More than 80 golfers hit the links on a perfect South Florida day for a scramble tournament, the proceeds of which went toward giving George Snow scholars the support they need to ensure collegiate and career success. Sponsors of this year’s Golf Classic included the Steve Bagdan Charitable Foundation, Sunflower Landscaping & Maintenance, Aileen and Joe Farrell, and many more.

WHERE: Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club

Bill Donnell, Tim Snow

Jerry Fedele, Doug Fash

Ryan Malfitano, Mike Sullivan, Tim Snow, Chris Warren, Mark Milocco

Brad Osborne, Tim Snow, Brian Perna, Scott Eckert, Bobby D’Angelo

Tim Snow, Donna Parlapiano, Scott McCleneghen, Jerry Fedele

Michael Burke, Bill Burke, Dennis Gavin, Ryan Haines

EVENT DETAILS

WHAT IT IS: This signature tradition of dining under the stars down the middle of Atlantic Avenue is here again—our 13th year!—featuring a four-course legendary downtown Delray Beach dining experience you won’t want to miss.

WHERE: Right on the street, outdoors on East Atlantic Avenue, at tables stretching from Swinton Avenue to East Fifth Avenue/U.S. 1. #OUTSIDEDINING

WHEN: Monday, March 27, 2023, 5:30-9 p.m.

WHO IT BENEFITS: ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

The Achievement Centers for Children & Families is a community-based, family-focused organization dedicated to providing opportunities where under-resourced children may thrive in a positive environment. Founded in 1969 as the Community Child Care Center of Delray Beach (its corporate name), the Achievement Centers for Children & Families began as a pilot program in donated church schoolrooms with a handful of teachers and children. As the low-income community needs became increasingly evident, the program quickly grew to support these families and help prepare their children for success in the public school system. The Achievement Centers’ program was so successful that it relocated to a small house, and opened a new preschool facility in 1990. Less than six years later, it added a toddler center to serve children between the ages of 12 months to 3 years. In 2001, it opened an after-school center to serve students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The programs were expanded again in 2004 with the addition of an afterschool program, teen program, adult education program and adult center at the Village Academy. In January 2007 the name was officially changed to the Achievement Centers for

Children & Families to aptly describe its dedication to provide services to working low-income families in Palm Beach County.

HOW YOU CAN GO: this is a RESERVATION-ONLY style event!! Guests cannot buy tickets to the event; reservations must be made directly with the participating restaurant of your choice. Review the restaurant listings (next page); menus are available online at bocamag.com/Savor-The-Avenue-2023 or DowntownDelrayBeach. com/SavorTheAvenue or at the restaurant.

But you have to act fast; when reservations open up Feb. 1, 2023, seats go quickly, and the event is usually sold out. Reservations reserved with a credit card depend on each restaurant’s policy. Each restaurant has a limited number of seats at their tables on Atlantic Ave for the event. The total capacity for this event is between 900 and 1,000 people. **However, all the restaurants both participating in the event and along the street will be open for dinner service! That is what makes this event so much FUN!

HOW TO CHECK IN AT THE EVENT: Remember: East Atlantic Avenue is closed, because the actual event is in the street!!

You’ll need to check in at the restaurant location on the avenue the night of; you’ll get a wristband and a lanyard to identify you as a Savor participant, which you are required to wear. For more particulars, please visit DowntownDelrayBeach.com/SavorThe Avenue.

TABLE DÉCOR CONTEST: Savor the Avenue restaurants will be competing for the “Best in Show” table. From elegant to eclectic, each restaurant stages a unique theme through its table settings to showcase its special style or cuisine. Arrive early and walk the avenue to view the beautifully decorated tables.

DINNERTIME!

5:30 P.M. TO 6:15 P.M.: After checking in, enjoy a welcome drink at a welcome reception provided by each participating restaurant. Locate your seats at Florida’s longest dining table, and prepare to enjoy a beautiful night.

6:15 P.M.: Seating begins, and your Delray hosts will welcome you.

6:30 P.M. TO 9 P.M.: Dinner begins, with four courses of sheer indulgence, served with custom adult beverage pairings.

7:30 P.M.: The table décor contest winner will be announced.

GOING GREAT LENGTHS

This year, the layout of Savor will return to its traditional five-block-long dining table, an elegant yet communal experience that is the hallmark of this beloved event.

ATTIRE: Downtown Delray Beach evening casual or themed attire, depending on the restaurant motif.

PARKING: Public parking lots and garage parking are available, as well as some valet locations. Atlantic Avenue will be closed during the event.

Side streets will remain open for vehicle access. (East Atlantic Avenue is closed from Swinton to Federal Highway to vehicle traffic.)

AVAILABLE GARAGES:

• Old School Square Parking Garage

Northeast First Street and Northeast First Avenue

• Robert Federspiel Garage

Southeast First Avenue between Atlantic and Southeast First Street

• 4th & 5th Delray Garage

Southeast Fourth Avenue between Atlantic and Southeast First Street

Visit DowntownDelrayBeach.com/ Parking for more information.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS FROM THE EVENING!

#DowntownDelray #BocaMag

#SavorTheAvenue

#OUTDOORDINING

We ask that you please Savor responsibly.

Produced by Downtown Development Authority of Delray Beach, FL, Delray magazine and Boca magazine.

THE RESTAURANTS:

ELISABETTA’S: From pastas to pizzas and a great outdoor porch, this is Delray’s Saturday night central.

CABANA EL REY: Our beloved (and hip) Cuban restaurant has all the moves—and great Latin cuisine.

AVALON: Delray’s sumptuous seafood and chophouse is a crowd pleaser.

ROCCO’S TACOS: Tableside guac, Taco Tuesdays and an epic Avenue hangout make this a Delray fave.

SALT 7: An elaborate nightlife merges with creative and flavorful surf and turf at this trendy chophouse.

BRULE & ROSE’S DAUGHTER: Mom’s Sunday Italian dinner—with a fresh new spin—already has a loyal following.

RACKS FISH HOUSE + OYSTER BAR & GARY RACK’S FARMHOUSE KITCHEN: Clams, oysters, lobster rolls and a great outdoor bar define this hot spot.

CITY OYSTER: The heart of the Avenue, with its long friendly bar and diverse menu, is a see-and-be-seen dining spot.

VIC AND ANGELO’S: This longtime Avenue staple is great Italian on the right side of the tracks.

CAFFE LUNA ROSA: This oceanside Italian bistro is a tradition for locals as well as tourists.

LIONFISH: Delray’s buzzy seafood restaurant has been a hit from day one.

THE FALCON: This funky and festive bar has great food—and innovative small plates.

LEMONGRASS: This Asian restaurant is a tried-and-true Avenue benchmark, with a mean sake selection.

SPONSORS

dining guide

Your resource for Greater Delray Beach’s finest restaurants

STAFF PICK

Corvina Seafood Grill

110 Plaza Real S., Boca Raton; 561/206-0066

Sometimes we all need a break from the Ave, and here’s a nice one: Corvina Seafood in Boca. Celebrating its one-year anniversary in December, Corvina Seafood Grill debuted on the Boca dining scene to much fanfare, and it continues to deliver consistent seafood-centric dishes in a charming coastal setting. The restaurant is the creation of veteran masterminds Dean Carras, Patrick Marino, David Wizenberg and chef Jeff Tunks. A professionally trained chef with vast hospitality experience, the Texas native relocated from Washington, D.C., to South Florida and brought a Northeastern coastal flair that’s seen throughout his dishes. Tunks also does a great job of incorporating South Florida’s varied Latin and Caribbean culinary influences in his menu; 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. The décor adds to the seaside feel with serene shades of blue throughout and a ceiling detail that’s reminiscent of coral.The indoor/outdoor bar invites you to come in and stay a while, especially during its generous daily happy hour.

There are several raw bar selections and even a seafood tower if you’re extra ravenous, but we started with the Bar Harbor Roll ($26). While the description does say warm Maine lobster, I was thrown off by the warmth of the roll, but not necessarily in a bad way. It was well balanced with spicy blue crab and avocado, and topped with a citrusy agave-lime aioli that had a hint of sweetness. I also tried the Classic Peruvian Ceviche ($14) that came with all the anticipated accoutrements like pieces of sweet potato and cancha corn in a citrus leche de tigre marinade. It was refreshing and served with tortilla chips for easy scooping. Other appetizers included vegetable

options like roasted cauliflower and Brussels sprouts alongside pork ribs, char-broiled oysters, fish chowder and char-grilled octopus.

With a focus on sourcing local ingredients, the menu spotlights several daily specials, so look out for those. We enjoyed the Local Red Snapper Parmesan Almondine ($41), but the regular menu also features whole local snapper in case this option isn’t available. It was a little too drenched in the sun-dried tomato and basil butter sauce for my taste, but the toasted almonds gave it a nice crunch, and it was served with a hearty portion of creamy lobster mashed potatoes.

I also tried the Red Thai Curry Shrimp ($35) with local Key West pink shrimp that I

IF YOU GO

PARKING: Valet and street parking

HOURS: Mon.-Thurs., 5-9 p.m.

Fri.-Sat., 5-11 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

PRICES: $12- $59

WEBSITE: corvinabocaraton.com

would order again. The Maine Lobster Mac & Cheese ($28) was recommended, and so we indulged. While the butter poached lobster was tender and abundant, I was hoping it would be mixed into the white cheddar mornay sauce instead of just being placed on top.

In another nod to shopping local, Tunks features a homegrown Proper Ice Cream Sundae ($12) on his rotating list of specials, so make sure to save room for this local favorite. There is nothing quite like a Proper sundae, and I loved every bite.

—Christie Galeano-DeMott

Maine lobster mac & cheese

AARON BRISTOL

DINING KEY

DELRAY BEACH

3rd and 3rd—301 N.E. Third Ave. Gastropub. This quirky, individualistic, obscurely located little place is one of the most important restaurants in Delray. The menu changes frequently, but hope the evening’s fare includes plump scallops with caramelized mango sauce, stunning delicious roasted cauliflower with Parmesan mousse and bacon, and wicked-good espresso panna cotta on it at your visit. • Lunch Wed.-Fri., Brunch Sat. and Sun., Dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/303-1939. $$

50 Ocean —50 S. Ocean Blvd. Seafood. The former Upper Deck at Boston’s on the Beach is now the more upscale, seafood-oriented spot. The menu ranges from familiar to slightly more inventive, from a classic lobster bisque and crisp-tender fried clam bellies to rock shrimp pot pie and baked grouper topped with blue crab. The cinnamon-dusted beignets are puffs of amazingly delicate deep-fried air and should not under any circumstances be missed. • Lunch Mon.-Sat. Dinner nightly. Brunch Sun. 561/278-3364. $$

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. 561/278-3364. $$

Angelo Elia Pizza • Bar • Tapas— 16950 Jog Road. Italian. Nothing on the menu of Angelo Elia’s modCern, small plates-oriented osteria disappoints, but particularly notable are the meaty fried baby artichokes stuffed with breadcrumbs and speck, delicate chicken-turkey meatballs in Parmesan-enhanced broth, and Cremona pizza with a sweet-salty-earthypungent mélange of pears, pancetta, Gorgonzola, sun-dried figs and mozzarella. • Dinner nightly. 561/381-0037. $$

Atlantic Grille—1000 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood/ Contemporary American. This posh restaurant in the luxurious Seagate Hotel & Spa is home to a 450-gallon aquarium of tranquil moon jellyfish and a 2,500-gallon shark tank. Savor inventive cuisine that takes the contemporary to the extraordinary. Bold flavors, inspired techniques and the freshest ingredients make every meal a culinary adventure. • Lunch and dinner daily. Brunch Sat.–Sun. 561/665-4900. $$

Bamboo Fire—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. • Dinner Wed.-Sun. 561/749-0973. $

Beg for More Izakaya —19 S.E. Fifth Ave. Japanese Small Plates . The large sake, whisky and beer menu here pairs beautifully with the small plates full of everything except sushi. No sushi. And that’s fine. Try the takoyaki (octopus balls), the crispy salmon tacos and anything with the addictive kimchi, such as the kimchi fried rice. There are pasta, teriyaki and simmered duck with bok choy dishes—or 16 varieties of yakitori (food on skewers). You’ll be back to beg for more. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/563-8849. $$

Brulé Bistro—200 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. The regular menu of this Pineapple Grove favorite always has satisfying dishes. Its specialties include crab tortellini with black truffles, chicken meatballs with coconut broth and cashews, plus signature dessert pistachio crème brùlée. Spirits and house cocktails steeped in speakeast style are paired with an ever-changing menu. Outside tables offer the best option for conversation. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/274-2046. $$

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

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

Caffe Luna Rosa—34 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. Italian. This multiple Delray Beach-award winning restaurant has sparkling service, comfort food taken to a higher level, and a setting just steps from the Atlantic. Open since 1993, and a success since then, they dish up big flavors in a tiny space, so call for reservations. Try the calamari fritto misto, then the rigatoni pomodoro and leave room for dessert. Or come back for breakfast. • Open daily from breakfast through dinner. 561-274-9404. $$

Casa L’Acqua—9 S.E. Seventh Ave. Italian. You’ll get what you pay for here: very good Italian food in the cozy converted house that is a refreshing change from busy Atlantic Avenue. The antipasti (bread, balsamic/ honey dipping sauce, Parmesan chunks, bruschetta) are so good, they could be dinner. But save room for the pollo Parmigiana, the scallopine piccate al limone, the four kinds of risotto, and dessert. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/563-7492. $$$

Boys & Girls Club of Delray Beach presents the 10th Anniversary

BUILDING BLOCKS OF CHARACTER

Saturday, March 4, 2023 | The Club at Quail Ridge

CO-CHAIRS

For more information, contact Nicole Miranda at (561) 676-5472 or at nmiranda@bgcpbc.org or visit www.bgcpbc.org

Sue Ambrecht • Sacha McGraw • Susan Mullin

City Oyster—213 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. This stylish mainstay of Big Time Restaurant Group serves up reasonably priced seafood that never disappoints, such as shrimp and grits with a jumbo crab cake. This is the place to see and be seen in Delray, and the food lives up to its profile. • Lunch Mon.–Sun. Dinner nightly. Outdoor dining. 561/272-0220. $$

Cut 432—432 E. Atlantic Ave. Steakhouse. Hipper decor, a more casual vibe and an inventive take on steak-house favorites make this sleek restaurant just different enough to be interesting. Starters such as ceviche (prepared Peruvian style) and ultrarich oysters Rockefeller are first-rate, while the wet-aged 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 menu has its quirky charms, too, like shake-n-bake pork chops with sweet-savory butterscotch onions, and a brownie-vanilla ice cream sundae with strips of five-spice powdered bacon. The wittily decorated 1920s-vintage house-turnedrestaurant is, as they say, a trip. • Dinner nightly. 561/330-3232. $$

Deck 84—840 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Burt Rapoport’s ode to laid-back tropical dining is like a day at the beach without getting sand between your toes. Though the restaurant is casual, the kitchen takes its food seriously, whether the stellar flatbreads, the thick and juicy 10-ounce special blend burger or homey seasonal cobbler. And the waterfront location just seems to make everything taste better. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Brunch Sat.–Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/665-8484. $

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 toast 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 Wed.Mon. 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. $$

EVERYDAY FAVORITES

Big T’s Deli at the Delray Beach Market—33 S.E. Third Ave. American. This is the real deal, a New Jersey/Philly/NY deli run by two bona fide award-winning chefs (Tony “Big T” G and his son Michael) who were successful restaurateurs in the Northeast before joining the carefully curated Delray Beach Market team. This is your catcher’s mitt for all-day breakfast, hand-crafted sandwiches made from top-quality deli meats (try Nana’s hand-rolled meatballs on a torpedo roll, the Philly Steak, the legendary pastrami). Go ahead. Swoon. It’s like coming home. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 561/247-1860. $

Flybird—335 E. Linton Blvd., #B-13. American. Celebrity Chef Michael Salmon (yes, that’s his real name) has cooked in fine restaurants in New York (and for people like Jackie O), starred on the Food Network and more—and it shows in this low-key chicken place that specializes in char-grilled chicken (and chicken pot pies on occasion) as well as downhome sides like mac and three cheeses, mashed potatoes and gravy and Peruvian corn. A hit since it opened, Flybird is still soaring. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/243-1111. $

Over the Bridge Café—814 E Atlantic Ave. American. True to its name, this favorite brunch spot is just to the west of the bridge on East Atlantic Avenue. It offers both traditional favorites and unique spins on brunch cuisine, and dishes like the sunrise crabcake will help you get out of bed in the morning. Frozen cocktails like the Orange Creamsicle are a particular favorite on hot days, and affordable snacks are available for canine guests joining outdoor diners. Breakfast and brunch daily. 561/403-5581. $

Ramen Lab Eatery—25 N.E. Second Ave., # 114. Asian. Offering traditional Japanese ramen dishes alongside more contemporary favorites like poke bowls and bao buns, this sister restaurant to the Boca location of the same name has become an Asian food staple just off of Atlantic Avenue. Don’t miss happy hour from 3-6 p.m. every day, with half off all drinks and select appetizers. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/455-2311. $

Sandwiches by the Sea—1214 E. Atlantic Ave. Deli. Without a website to tout its menu, this definition of a hole-inthe-wall deli has nonetheless built a 40-year word-of-mouth reputation on the quality craftsmanship and lightning-speed service of its subs, hoagies and burgers. Pop in after a beach day for an unsurpassed potato salad or Italian combo. Breakfast and lunch daily. 561/272-2212. $

Sazio Express—1136 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian/American. This baby sister restaurant to the popular Sazio in central downtown Delray has a loyal following for casual lunching and early bites from a menu designed to dangle your favorites before your eyes. Pizzas by the slice or whole (including grandma pizza), heroes (roast beef and gorgonzola, anyone?), wraps, salads, wings, cheese fries, chicken tenders. OK, just stop. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/276-2657. $

Veg Eats Foods—335 E. Linton Blvd. Vegan. This is delightful sanctuary for plant-based foodies has generated a loyal following for its seasonally changing menu of locally sourced comfort-food favorites, which work meatless magic on your taste buds. Try the smothered mushroom burger and the banh mi, made with pea protein-based sausage. Lunch daily. 561/562-6673. $$

Ember Grill—233 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. The Ray Hotel’s modern bistro is helmed by Joe Zanelli, who has created a variety of globally inspired dishes. Seafood, steaks and house specialties like the duck pancakes share the menu with delectable desserts like the baked Alaska ablaze on your table or refreshing frozen pineapple. • Dinner nightly. 561/7391705. $$

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. $$$$

Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar—1841 S. Federal Highway. American. You don’t have to worry about calories (most dishes are under 500), you don’t have to worry about finding something you haven’t tried before (new items are added every three months) and freshness is the silent ingredient throughout. Try the pesto Caprese flatbread, the supergrain salad and the steak or salmon or chicken. Desserts offer big tastes in small jars. • Lunch and dinner daily; brunch on weekends. 561/266-3239. $$

Henry’s—16850 Jog Road. American. This casual, unpretentious restaurant in the west part of town never fails to delight diners. Expect attentive service and crisp execution of everything—from meat loaf, burgers and fried chicken to flatbreads and hefty composed salads. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/6381949. $$

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. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/272-3390. $$

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

Joseph’s Wine Bar—200 N.E. Second Ave. Mediterranean-American. Joseph’s is an elegant, comfortable, intimate nook in Delray’s Pineapple Grove, and an ideal place for a lazy evening. This family affair—owner Joseph Boueri, wife Margaret in the kitchen, and son Elie and daughter Romy working the front of the house—has all tastes covered. Try the special cheese platter, the duck a l’orange or the rack of lamb. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/272-6100. $$

La Cigale—253 S.E. Fifth Ave. Mediterranean. Popular venue since 2001, with Greek and Italian dishes and more. Highlights are seafood paella, roasted half duck and grilled jumbo artichoke appetizer. Lots of favorites on the menu: calf’s liver, veal osso buco, branzino, seafood crepes. Nice outdoor seating if weather permits. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/265-0600. $$

Latitudes —2809 S. Ocean Blvd. Modern American . You should come for both the sunset and the food. This oceanfront restaurant is a gem tucked inside the Delray Sands resort. From the airy, bubbly interior to the raw bar, the décor is soothing and fun. Try the lobster and crab stuffed shrimp, the miso-glazed Skuna Bay salmon, the branzino or the veal Bolognese. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/278-6241. $$$

Lemongrass Bistro—420 E. Atlantic Ave. PanAsian. Casually hip ambience, friendly service, moderate prices and a blend of sushi and nouveau pan-Asian fare make this a popular destination. The quality of its seafood and care in its preparation are what gives Lemongrass its edge. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/2785050. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 101 Plaza Real S., Boca Raton, 561/544-8181; 1880 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach, 561/733-1344). $

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. $$$

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. Don’t miss the restaurant’s winning take on the thick, juicy Prime beef burger and simply wicked maple-frosted donuts with bacon bits and two dipping sauces. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/276-3600. $$

Park Tavern—32 S.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. Check out the high-top seating or bar stools during an excellent happy hour menu that includes deviled eggs, pork sliders, chicken wings and a happy crowd. Entrees are generous and well executed. Try the fish and chips, one of six burgers, fish tacos and more. • Dinner nightly. Brunch Sat.-Sun. 561/265-5093. $$

Prime—29 S.E Second Ave. Steak/Seafood. Prime is aptly named for its heart of the action location, neo-supper club decor, extensive wine list and roster of designer steaks. Starters and desserts fare better than entrées,

especially the Maryland-style crab cakes and luscious chocolate bread pudding. Service is strong so with a bit of work this restaurant will fully live up to its name. • Dinner nightly. 561/865-5845. $$$

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 standbys updated with delicious ingredients and high standards. Try the Monetcolored lobster risotto, or housemade pasta, pizza, bread and desserts. . • Dinner Wed.-Sun. 561/271-9423. $$

Salt7—32 S.E. Second Ave. Modern American. All the pieces needed to create a top-notch restaurant are here: talented chef, great food, excellent service. From the pea risotto to the crab cake to the signature steaks and

a lot more, this is a venue worth the money. Thanks goes to Executive Chef Paul Niedermann, who won TV’s notorious “Hell’s Kitchen” show, and his talent is displayed here on the plate. • Dinner Mon.-Sat. Brunch Sunday. 561/274-7258. $$$

Sazio—131 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. This long-lived venue on crowded Atlantic Avenue is a reason to sit down and take a breath. Then take up a fork and try the linguine with white clam sauce or the ravioli Sazio or grilled skirt steak or pretty much anything on the menu. Prices are reasonable; leftovers are popular. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/272-5540. $$

Sundy House—106 S. Swinton Ave. Contemporary American. It’s fine dining with a new chef and rave reviews here, served in arguably the most beautiful restaurant and gardens in Delray. Menus are seasonal and imaginative. Try any of the fresh local fish dishes. • Lunch Tues.–Sat. Brunch Sun. Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/272-5678. $$

Taverna Opa—270 E. Atlantic Ave. Greek. Yes, you can order a side of belly dancing and napkin tossing with your moussaka and baklava at this chain. But the moussaka and baklava are very good; so is the rest of

the food at the downtown Delray outpost. Whole grilled bronzino is finished with lemon and orange juices for a citrusy flavor boost, while tongue-tying galaktoboureko goes baklava one better by adding vanilla-scented custard to golden, flaky phyllo. • Dinner nightly. 561/303-3602. $$

Terra Fiamma—9169 W. Atlantic Ave. Italian. The pleasures of simple, well-prepared Italian-American cuisine are front and center here. Enjoy the delicate, pillow-y veal meatballs in Marsala sauce; lusty chicken Allessandro with mushrooms, spinach and artichoke hearts; and a finely crafted tiramisu that’s as satisfying as it is familiar. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/495-5570. $$

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

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. If you have room for dessert, the classic sweets include cannoli and a tiramisu. • Dinner nightly, brunch weekends. 561/278-9570. $$

Yellowtail—7959 W. Atlantic Ave. Asian. Chef and partner Andrew Marc Rothschild has cooked in notable international kitchens including France’s Michelin-starred Au Crocoile and Palm Beach’s the Breakers—and he’s bringing that elevated experience and cuisine to Delray Beach. What sets Yellowtail apart from the plethora of other sushi joints is its fully customizable menu with its impressive variety of not-so-basic proteins. Yes, there is chicken and shrimp for your pad Thai or curry, but there’s also duck, lobster, squid and scallops. You can also ramp up your maki with eel, prawns and sea urchin, to name just a few. • Dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/501-6391. $$

LAKE WORTH BEACH

Couco Pazzo—915-917 Lake Ave. Italian. Despite the name, there’s nothing crazy about the cooking at this homey eatery. It’s the hearty, soul-satisfying Italian cuisine we’ve all come to know and love. Spaghetti Bolognese is a fine version of a Northern Italian classic. • Dinner nightly. (Tues.–Sun. during summer). 561/585-0320. $$

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

Jackie Ermola

Co-founder, Student Life Alliance; board member, Eat Better, Live Better; member, Initiative to End Homelessness in Delray

THEN: Growing up in the housing projects outside Philadelphia, Jackie Ermola came to recognize that just because someone is poor doesn’t mean he or she must remain stuck in poverty. Her understanding that hope and a handful of help can be transformative formed the underpinning for a lifetime of work helping people in need, primarily those without permanent homes. After high school, Ermola landed an administrative job at a nearby hospital, followed by a position handling back-office responsibilities for a small grocery store chain. Married and enjoying an upper-middle-class lifestyle in the Philadelphia suburb of Lansdale, Ermola began handing out meals—as well as kind words—to HIV-positive patients and homebound seniors at Manna on Main Street, a soup kitchen and food pantry supported by her company. At the insistence of nuns at her son’s school, she later began serving meals to people in the most marginalized areas of Philadelphia.

NOW: After settling in Delray Beach in 2012 and retiring in 2015, Ermola picked up where she left off. She took on the volunteer leadership role of the care ministry at St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church, where she forged partnerships with other organizations. After she left the care ministry, Ermola volunteered with other nonprofits such as Eat Better, Live Better, where she is now on the board. She began working through the Interfaith Committee for Social Services that now provides shower trucks, hygiene materials and other services to the homeless. In April, after recognizing that there were a couple of hundred homeless students attending Delray Beach schools, Ermola teamed up with Living Hungry founder Maura Plante, and friends Founa Badet and Jennifer Smith, to create the Student Life Alliance. “We found that students need more than just what’s provided by the schools,” she says. The group offers students items such as underwear, socks and other clothing as well as backpacks, hygiene products and items suggested by a school counselor. In Christmas 2021, it provided gifts for more than 170 homeless children attending Delray and Boca schools.

“Each homeless person we meet has a story to tell, and when you listen to that story you discover they are caring and loving people from all walks of life who deserve our kindness and respect.”