10 Boca-Delray Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss

When it comes to dining, there is no shortage of options in Boca Raton and Delray Beach.

In fact, there are so many restaurants it can feel overwhelming.

In the spirit of helping you decipher the clutter, we offer you 10 choices that we love and know you’ll enjoy. Since there are obviously more than 10 great spots in Boca-Delray, we will make this an ongoing series of culinary discovery. Bon Appetit!

In Delray

• Brule—this charming bistro is in the heart of Delray’s Pineapple Grove district, where locals love to roam to take a break from the crowds on Atlantic Avenue.

Brule’ is a smart looking and sophisticated restaurant with comfortable chairs, a small intimate bar and attentive staff.

The food is wonderful and the menu unique. For example, for lunch we recommend Brule’s “grilled cheese” which is actually roast beef, with a tomato and other seasonings that make this a sandwich unlike any other.

The specials are always interesting and foodies will love the variety of offerings. We also adore the seared tuna, delicious flat breads and fish tacos.

Brule’ is relaxing, conducive to conversation and reasonably priced.

Brule is located at 200 N.E Second Ave, suite 209 in Delray Beach. Call: 561-274-2046 for more information or visit www.brulebistro.com

• Jimmy’s Bistro—You never know what quite to expect when you visit this little charmer on South Swinton Avenue, just south of Atlantic Ave and that’s a good thing. The menu changes daily and it’s fun to check the blackboard to see what chef Jimmy is up to that day. Small, intimate and always stellar,  Jimmy’s Bistro is another selection that will thrill those who take their food seriously.

American and French influences abound, but we recommend calling  for reservations since there are only about two dozen seats in this chef driven bistro.

Jimmy’s is located at 9 S. Swinton Avenue in Delray Beach. For more info call (561) 865-5774.

• Tryst—If you appreciate gastropubs look no further than Tryst which combines modern American food with some European influences. Popular for dinner, we also like Tryst for lunch because the atmosphere is cool, the staff is friendly and the menu has a nice balance that is able to handle whatever you’re in the mood for.

Tryst is inspired by Europe’s rich bar culture and that makes it a breath of fresh air for trendy Atlantic Ave. The place feels warm, comfortable but authentic.

It doesn’t hurt that Tryst also offers more than 30 wines and has the best pub burger in the tropics.

Visit Tryst at 4 E. Atlantic Ave., in Delray. For more information call (561) 921-0201 or visit www.trystdelray.com

• Union Delray—Ok we have a confession to make, we are crazy about Union’s owner Scott Kennedy, a good guy with an interesting story who gives back to the community. But put those personal feelings aside and Union is a great spot to meet friends, eat Sushi and enjoy the best Happy Hour around featuring 3 for 1 drinks (that’s not a typo).

Union also features great Asian food, a great outside courtyard to meet friends and enjoy the sites and sounds of Atlantic Avenue and a sharp interior.

Union Delray is located at 8 E. Atlantic Ave. Call (561) 330-4236 for information or visit www.uniondelray.com

• Senor Burrito’s –We are suckers for good Mexican food at a reasonable price and Senor Burrito’s fits the bill. Locals love the place because everything on the menu is fresh, tasty and served with a smile. A lively bar, private room and comfortable booths complete the experience.

It’s kid friendly and the margaritas and San Gria can’t be beat. For information call (561) 278-5757. Senor Burrito’s is located at 142 SE 6th Ave., Delray Beach. Visit www.senorburrito.com

 

In Boca Raton

• Tom Sawyer—If you’re looking for friendly, heaping portions and a place your likely to run into a local who’s who there is simply no better spot than Tom Sawyer’s. We love lunch there, but breakfast is also awesome.  Tom Sawyer’s features sandwiches, hamburgers, salads and fries to die for. Simple, inexpensive and a nice atmosphere. An institution. Enough said. Call (561) 368-4634 or visit www.tomsawyerrestaurant.com.  Tom Sawyer’s is located 1759 NW Boca Raton Blvd.
• Saquella Café—This is a favorite brunch/lunch spot. Saquella has amazing pastries, breads, sandwiches and salads. It’s also a gorgeous spot, with comfortable seating indoors and out. Saquella is an Italian Bistro, Espresso Bar, European Bakery, Restaurant, and Tapas Bar. Since 1856, the Saquella family, from Pescara, Abruzzi, Italy, has been roasting one of the most unique boutique coffees in the world. So if you want to feel like you’re in Italy while never leaving Boca this is the spot. Visit www.saquellacafe.com or call (561) 338-8840. Saquella is located at 410 Via De Palmas.
• Max’s Grille—Legendary South Florida restaurateur Dennis Max’s flagship remains an amazing place to eat. Dennis knows food and his menu is always evolving while never losing Max’s classic quality. The atmosphere is wonderful, the outside bar is great and there is no better crème brulee on the planet. Max’s is also gluten free friendly and a place to be seen for business meetings. For information call (561) 368-0080 or visit www.maxsgrille.com. Stay tuned for Dennis’ new concept Max’s Fresh coming soon. Max’s Grille is located in Mizner Park.
• Villagio—Also located in Mizner Park, Villagio is a terrific Italian restaurant with a huge menu, reasonable prices, generous portions, good wine and great service. We love the pasta dishes and the fish. What more can you ask for?

For information please call  (561) 447-2257. Or visit www.villagiorestaurants.com

• Ovenella—Head on a little south of Mizner Park to 499 S. Federal Highway and visit Ovenella, another wonderful Italian restaurant with great food and incredible service. Ovenella has atmosphere, a solid wine list and handles big parties well. Parking is convenient and the price is just right. We stumbled upon this gem one Saturday night and have been back several times since. The pizza is awesome but so is the pasta and the appetizers. We highly recommend the Mista Salad and the Lobster and Crab Ravioli. Call (561) 672-7553 for information or visit www.ovenella.com