Your votes are in. This year, the “Best Of” winners range from hip happy hour spots to great places to take the kids. Here are your top picks.
Beach
Red Reef Park
South Florida is known for its beaches, but for some, going to the beach is so much more than wading in the water. At Red Reef Park, a simple beach outing quickly becomes a beach day with picnic tables equipped with grills, nature walks for spotting small and large birds, and swimming and snorkeling. But, maybe the most fun feature at the park is the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. An extension of Red Reef, Gumbo Limbo is a coastal and marine environmental experience. Here, you’ll find a butterfly garden, outdoor aquariums and a sea turtle rehabilitation center, plus tons of activities for kids of all ages. The days of laying on a towel and worrying about your kids being entertained are long gone. At Red Reef Park, say “hello” to hours worth of outdoor entertainment.
1400 S. Ocean Blvd.,
Boca Raton,
561.393.7974
mybocaparks.org/red-reef-park
Boat Charter
Boca Boat Adventures
Beaches here are plentiful, but sometimes the best way to get an all-encompassing view of Boca Raton is on the water. Don’t want to cram into a large charter? Boca Boat Adventures offers the only private speedboat tours in the area. With a maximum of six guests, pass by waterfront mansions, parks and the Boca Raton Resort and Club on the infamous Top Kat boat. Riders can choose from an hour-and-fifteen-minute ride to an all-day, eight-hour charter, with other options including a sunset boat tour and a tour of the Intracoastal. No matter which selection you choose, you’ll find solace in knowing that your group will be the only ones aboard the boat, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views, your way.
300 SE Fifth Ave., Ste. 4180,
Boca Raton,
561.406.9905
bocaboatadventures.com
View in Town
The Blue at the Boca Resort
The menu at The Blue—full of items like roasted Maine lobster and grilled lamb chop—can only be rivaled by the view. On the 27th floor, The Blue offers panoramic views of the Intracoastal below. Chic white furniture and glass-top tables only extenuate the blue glow of the water, creating a nautical feel without an anchor in site. The chefs focus on locally sourced ingredients, with a frequently changing menu full of organic offerings and a Claw Bar complete with oysters, lobster claws and stone crab. But, although the menu may change, the views always remain the same—and they alone are worth getting dolled up for.
501 E. Camino Real, 27th Floor,
Boca Raton,
561.447.3000
bocaresort.com
Waterfront Restaurant
Deck 84
Dining inside in Florida can sometimes feel like a contradiction, especially when the sun is shining and the breeze is blowing straight off the ocean. At Deck 84, no matter if you choose indoor or outdoor seating, you’ll get the same breezy feeling that comes with waterfront dining. Whether you arrive by boat or by car, you’ll be instantly catered to, seated at a table with a view of the ocean and offered a menu full of items like pan-roasted salmon, jumbo lump crab cake and center cut skirt steak. Plus, enjoy live music on the weekends, a happy hour menu weekdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., and brunch, served Saturdays and Sundays, featuring build-your-own omelets, braised short rib hash and more.
840 E. Atlantic Ave.,
Delray Beach,
561.665.8484
deck84.com
Dive Bar
Hurricane Bar
Some bars try, and fail, to create a dive bar scene worth going to, but Hurricane Bar excels in it. If you’re looking for a casual place to enjoy a drink, this is where locals and visitors go—you just have to know where to find it. Tucked away and somewhat hidden, Hurricane is simply decorated with an added bit of flair in the outdoor Tiki bar. Stepping inside, a laid-back atmosphere greets you, a far cry from the overall swanky vibe of the Avenue. Thursdays through Sundays bring live music and a daily two-for-one happy hour is offered every day and all afternoon—1 p.m. to 7 p.m., to be exact—a deal so good, you won’t be able to find anything else like it in the area. Dive bar status achieved.
640 E. Atlantic Ave.,
Delray Beach,
561.278.0282
facebook.com/hurricaneloungedelray
Brewery
Funky Buddha
Craft beer is a trend that seems to be gaining in popularity each year—but it was Funky Buddha Brewery, founded right here in Boca Raton in 2010, that introduced the concept to Florida. Their beers are clever, with staples like the Florida Hefeweizen, an unfiltered German-style wheat beer, and the grapefruit, pineapple and caramel infused Hop Gun IPA, join seasonal (summer brings Blueberry Cobbler Ale and Sweet Potato Casserole), small batch and draft-only brews. In addition to beer (note: they serve bar snacks, wine and spirits, too), the Funky Buddha also offers home brewing classes, hookah and live music. Cheers to that.
2621 N. Federal Highway,
Boca Raton,
561.368.4643
thefunkybuddha.com
Live Music Venue
The Funky Biscuit
No matter your taste in music, The Funky Biscuit will entertain, from NOLA funk, to fusion jazz, to rock ’n’ roll. Owned and operated by musicians, the experience tailors to all who appreciate good sound—whether you play yourself or simply like to listen. The intimate space has been a sound stage for acts like Crazy Fingers and Dreams Crystal Visions of Fleetwood Mac (this July, see the Talking Dreads on the 22nd at 8 p.m.), and more. But they aren’t just about the music. Enjoy shrimp and grits; Funky chicken and biscuits smothered with Funky Biscuit gravy; pizzas and burgers; specialty cocktails like the Funky Key Lime Pie with Stoli vanilla, Van Gogh vodka, simple syrup, lime juice and a splash of crème; and beer wine and dessert drinks filled with Godiva chocolate liqueur.
303 SE Mizner Blvd.,
Boca Raton,
561.395.2929
funkybiscuit.com
Beach Bar
Sandbar
Directly across from the ocean, Sandbar is an extension of the beach complete with sand-filled floors, tiki huts and Adirondack chairs. Saunter over after a day in the sun and extend the beachy feels with a cold drink in your hand and toes still in the sand. Finger foods like Key West conch fritters and jumbo wings accompany the real stars of the show: the drinks. Find frozen options like a classic rum runner or spruced up daiquiri with mango and mint; an entire mojito menu with flavors like blueberry, raspberry and piña colada; and tiki cocktails available by the pitcher, with an array of options in the sangria, Mai Tai and punch categories. One sip and you’ll forget you ever left the beach.
40 S. Ocean Blvd.,
Delray Beach,
561.278.3364
bostonssandbar.com
Upscale Bar
Waterstone Rum Bar & Grill
Your night calls for something a little more upscale, whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply want to get dressed up. So where do you go? Take a nod from fellow locals, who all flock to Waterstone Rum Bar & Grill, located at the Waterstone Resort & Marina. Situated between the pool and Lake Boca, a view is present no matter which way you turn, accompanied by some of the best poolside eats around. Order the mango mustard glazed salmon with cilantro-infused rice and papaya salsa for a true Florida feel or opt for the Rum Bar specialty arepas with chicken, steak or shrimp, all made with gluten-free ingredients. Pair either with a Tipsy Tea (raspberry-infused rum, lemonade and freshly brewed tea) or a watermelon and cucumber slushy (blended with el Jimador tequila, watermelon, cucumber and house-made sour mix), plus other specialty cocktails served in a glass, souvenir bucket or party pitcher.
999 E. Camino Real,
Boca Raton,
561.368.9500
waterstoneboca.com
Sports Bar
Yard House
Nothing says “sports bar” like beer, big-screen TVs and comfort food. But what makes Yard House a favorite among local sports bars is this: not only is there beer, but 125 varieties of it; the TVs are plentiful; and the menu brings a variety of not just comfort food (the Nashville hot chicken is a must-order), but also fresh options like salads, sushi rolls and Baja fish tacos. The beer is sorted into categories—like “refreshing & crisp” and “strong & spiced”—to fit specific tastes, making it easy to bring the whole gang to watch the big game. Bonus: Even if your team loses, you’ll still be winning the food and drink game, and after you take a bite, you just might forget your loss—if only for a little.
201 Plaza Real,
Boca Raton,
561.417.6124
yardhouse.com
Happy Hour
El Camino
This Mexican soul food and tequila bar near Delray’s Atlantic Avenue was chosen as the best Happy Hour for many reasons: $2 tacos in flavors like spicy chicken, gringo (ground beef and Colby jack cheese) and veggie; $2 to $5 appetizers like guacamole and brisket quesadillas; $3 and $4 bottles of Corona, Dos Equis and more; $5 margaritas (we suggest the blood orange) and cocktails; $5 spirits; and $3 wines. But maybe the most appealing feature? Happy hour offered all seven days of the week. Find it at the bar or nearby booths from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., even on a busy Saturday night. That’s what we call a happy hour.
15 NE Second Ave.,
Delray Beach,
561.865.5350
elcaminodelray.com
Boutique
Teen Angel
Teen Angel has been a Boca staple for years. From outfitting girls for special events like bat mitzvahs, quinceanera and birthdays to dressing those same girls—now teens and adults—in the latest daytime fashions, it has always been a go-to for fashionable locals. Whether you’re looking for a party dress or just want to update your wardrobe, personal stylists are on hand to get you what you need. The best way to shop before you shop? Head to the boutique’s Instagram (@teenangelclothingboutique) for the latest trends, and clothing available at the store and find instant style inspiration for any age.
4900 Linton Blvd.,
Delray Beach,
561.496.3161
facebook.com/teenangelclothingboutique
Shopping Destination
Town Center at Boca Raton
This one-stop shopping mecca is an indoor haven for fashion lovers. Find trendy staples like Anthropologie, Banana Republic and Express; luxurious brands like Cartier, Gucci and Louis Vuitton; athletic wear at Lululemon, Athleta and Fit2Run; beauty products at Lush, bareMinerals and Kiehl’s; and even stores for car aficionados like Tesla and Porsche Design. All of these stores—plus a YouFit Health Club, a Med Spa and an array of fine dining and fast-casual eats—makes it easy to see why Town Center has remained a favorite shopping destination in Boca for decades.
6000 Glades Road,
Boca Raton,
561.368.6001
simon.com/mall/town-center-at-boca-raton
Specialty Grocer
Joseph’s Classic Market
Situated on the corner inside Boca Center, Joseph’s is a go-to for Italian specialties and hand-butchered meats and seafood. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate cheese platter for your next party (they prepare the mozzarella on-site) or a fresh and easy last-minute dinner for the family (weekly specials include meals for one or two, with options like chicken Parmesan, salmon, and spaghetti squash), you’ll find it at Joseph’s. But beyond the day-to-day conveniences, Joseph’s also runs a successful catering business—choose from buffet options or à la carte catering trays, both filled with pasta, deli meats, seafood and more—for your next big event, work lunch or celebration.
5250 Town Center Circle,
Boca Raton,
561.347.2314
josephsclassicmarket.com
Green Market
The Boys Farmers Market
Fresh food is for the boys—The Boys Farmers Market, that is. With a butcher shop, cheese shop, wine department and more all under one roof, it’s easy to see why The Boys was voted best green market in Boca Raton and Delray Beach. For meat lovers, “Poppy’s homemade sausage” is raved about throughout the Sunshine State, and the chicken served is all antibiotic free and never frozen. Lovers of the sea will be pleased to find a wide variety of seafood, from scallops and clams, to branzino and tuna, plus live Maine lobsters delivered daily. Find an employee and have them pick you out the ultimate wine-and-cheese pairing, or simply stop by for the bakery and order a cup of coffee and the infamous chocolate mousse square. Hungry yet?
14378 S. Military Trail,
Delray Beach,
561.496.0810
boysfarmersmarket.com
Cultural Attraction
Boca Raton Museum of Art
Among the upscale restaurants and trendy shops is the Boca Raton Museum of Art, a mecca for art lovers that’s not just a museum, but also an art school at the main campus and The Artists’ Guild in Delray Beach. If you’re just visiting, give yourself a few hours to walk through the expansive museum. You’ll find African masks, American and European paintings and sculptures, modern and contemporary works of art, photography and an outdoor sculpture garden. For locals or those who have a bit more time in the area, the art school offers classes for every age group (starting with age 5) in subjects like pottery, figure drawing, jewelry making and more.
501 Plaza Real,
Boca Raton,
561.392.2500
bocamuseum.org
On-Demand App
Uber
If you’ve ever used the popular ride-share service, then we don’t need to tell you why it was chosen as the best in Boca. But, if you haven’t, the concept is simple: download the app, put in your destination and voila! Your driver will arrive at your door and take you where you need to go. In Boca and Delray Beach, locals and visitors depend on the service to take them to their favorite happy hour spots, pick them up after a night on Atlantic Avenue, or as a car service to the airport. No matter the reason, Uber is always a convenient
option for getting around the area.
uber.com
Spa
Waldorf Astoria Spa at Boca Resort
Designed after Alhambra palace in Spain, the Waldorf Astoria Spa at the Boca Resort is a hidden gem. The Spa is filled with gardens and is home to a ritual bath common in Spain and part of the spa since its inception. Once inside, guests can take a dip in individual mineral baths or plunge pools, then choose between poolside relaxation or private lounges next to a fireplace. Before and after your preferred treatment, a full locker room awaits, complete with saunas, steam rooms and whirlpools. But the spa services are what really shine. Treat yourself to the Ultimate Waldorf Retreat package, which includes a massage, signature facial, manicure and pedicure, a shampoo and style, and a complimentary 50-minute ritual bath. Once you’re done, you’ll feel rejuvenated head-to-toe.
501 E. Camino Real,
Boca Raton,
561.347.4772
bocaresort.com/play
Festival
Boca Raton Fine Art Show
Held in January in downtown Boca Raton, the Boca Raton Fine Art Show is worth the wait. Not only is it loved by locals, visitors flock to it from all over the country, putting it in the top 100 art fairs in the nation. Up to 175 artists present their craft during the show, all of which are original and handmade paintings, photography, jewelry and more. But unlike other art shows in the area, this one works year-long to gather nationally and internationally renowned artists, so if you’re looking for that something special, you’ll be sure to find it. The next show will be held on Jan. 27 and 28, 2018 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
hotworks.org/bocaratonfineartshow
Outdoor Park
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
The weather is beautiful, but your kids aren’t entertained at the beach for more than an hour. If you’re looking for a place to take them, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is the best choice. A go-to field trip spot for local schools, it’s a place kids often ask to return to post-school. Grant their wishes and spend a day at the coastal and marine environmental center. Look for special events like turtle walks (in season) and aquarium feedings, or give your kids even more to look forward to with a week-long environmental camp during the summer. They’ll enjoy beach games, a boat trip to Peanut Island (for teens), canoe lessons and more.
1801 N. Ocean Blvd.,
561.544.8605
gumbolimbo.org
Place to Take Guests
Mizner Park
Known as a shopping destination, Mizner Park is home to some of the best shops and restaurants in not just Boca Raton, but the entire state of Florida. Find Max’s Grille, a Boca mainstay, and newcomers like New York favorite Junior’s, plus shops to help you outfit yourself, your home and your loved ones. Beyond that, Mizner is also home to the iPic, an upscale movie theater offering reserved seating, unobstructed views and food served directly to your seat; and the Mizner Park Amphitheater, hosting famous acts like John Mellencamp, local acts like the FAU Summer Concert Band and movie nights, when families can watch kid-friendly films and enjoy pre-entertainment under the stars.
327 Plaza Real,
Boca Raton,
561.362.0606
miznerpark.com
Waterfront Hotel
Boca Raton Resort & Club
Whether you’re visiting Boca Raton or planning a staycation here, waterfront views from your hotel room are a must. But most of the time, water views come at a cost. At the Boca Resort & Club, all rooms offer some sort of water view—either of the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal or the marina. And the views don’t end once you leave your room. As a guest at the resort, you also get full access to the Boca Beach Club, a local favorite complete with a huge pool, concierge food and drink service, and access to a private beach. Plus, all of this is housed inside a Mediterranean-style historic property, built in 1926 by Addision Mizner. If you want to see the best of Boca, this is where to do it.
501 E. Camino Real,
Boca Raton,
561.447.3000
bocaresort.com
Beauty Salon
Lush Salon & Spa
Do you ever feel a bit anxious when going to get your hair cut? Lush Salon and Spa has created an atmosphere that combats this, making your salon experience truly relaxing. Inspired by the calming effects of the beach at dusk, the colors and layout will push any salon worries away. Its Hairloft offers men’s, women’s and children’s cuts and styles for every day and special occasions, while at the Color Bar, expert stylists will give your hair a simple lift with face-framing highlights or a 360-degree makeover with balayage and color gloss.
1940 NE Fifth Ave.,
Boca Raton,
561.672.7231
lushskinsalon.com
Date Night Spot
The Little Chalet
The original Little Chalet began as a tiny gift shop in Savassi, Brazil, expanding into a furniture store, piano bar, and finally a restaurant. Diners flock there to enjoy Swiss fondues—something that isn’t easily found in Brazil—inside a cozy, welcoming environment. That success brought the restaurant to varying locations around Brazil and eventually to the States, where it landed right here in Boca Raton. Live piano, a warm atmosphere and dishes like Chalet Swiss Fillet and seared scallops will impress any date. Indulge in cheese fondues and finish the night with a dark chocolate fondue and glass of bubbly.
485 S. Federal Highway,
Boca Raton,
561.325.8000
thelittlechalet.com
Coffeehouse
Saquella Café
The Saquellas have been experts in roasting coffee since their origins in Italy in 1856, and lucky for us, they brought those skills here, opening an espresso bar, an Italian bistro and a European bakery. Order a chai latte or espresso macchiato and cozy up with your laptop for a relaxing place to work. If your hunger hits mid-day, order one of the famous pastries—the in-house pastry chef Lowil Stoller is known for her espresso chocolate chip cookie. If it’s a full meal you’re looking for, you’ll find a menu of fresh, never-fried items like an open-faced nova sandwich on a bagel or avocado, tomato, poached egg and hollandaise sauce on whole wheat toast.
410 Via de Palmas,
Boca Raton
561.338.8840
saquellacafe.com
Pizzeria
Tucci’s Fire N Coal Pizza
Everyone loves pizza, so when Boca names one “the best,” it has to be good. At Tucci’s, the pizza is wood fired and topped with a variety of ingredients meant to please any pizza taster. If you’re coming in for the first time, look to fellow diners for advice and order the 1st Avenue pie, a local favorite topped with roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese, spicy sausage and caramelized onions. Other specialty pizzas come topped with everything from pesto and barbecue chicken to baked eggplant and pepperoni. Or, if nothing sparks your interest, create your own
concoction.
50 NE First Ave.,
Boca Raton
561.620.2930
tuccispizza.com
Burger Joint
BurgerFi
When you have a craving for a burger and fries, there’s no better place to satisfy it than at BurgerFi. The menu is simple, yet full of flavor. Find six specialty burgers, like the CEO Burger with wagyu and brisket, candied bacon-tomato jam and truffle aioli or the Breakfast All Day burger with maple syrup, a fried egg, grilled onions and a hash brown, or simply get a cheeseburger. All are available with a double or single patty and the option of “green style,” foregoing the bun for hand-cut lettuce. Plus, the marriage between a burger and a shake reaches its peak here. The shakes and custards come in flavors like Oreo and red velvet, with rotating shakes being offered throughout the seasons.
Multiple locations
burgerfi.com
Vegan Eatery
Parlour Vegan Bakery
Following a vegan or vegetarian diet isn’t easy, and going to restaurants can be a tough, sometimes even impossible, task. But vegan can be delicious, and Parlour Vegan Bakery proves it. After years of testing different flavors and techniques, the bakers at Parlour have created the ultimate vegan treats. Give into your sweet tooth (without completely breaking your diet) and find doughnuts, cakes, cupcakes and even empanadas available for pre-order, or stop by the Boca bakery for a quick treat like a Butterfinger cupcake, a cookie sandwich filled with vanilla cream and an almond milk latte.
415 S. Federal Highway,
Boca Raton
561.617.7144
parlourvegan.com
Seafood Restaurant
RACKS Fish House & Oyster Bar
Floridians love their seafood, but here in Boca and Delray, they especially love the seafood at RACKS Fish House & Oyster Bar. Start with a tuna tartare or 1/3-pound crab cake, followed by Skuna Bay salmon or the popular lobster roll. Outside (and at the bar), enjoy happy hour every day of the week with $1 oysters and clams, $8 fish tacos and $12 shrimp cocktail, plus 50 percent off all bottles of wine and Champagne every Monday until close.
5 SE Second Ave.,
Delray Beach
561.450.6718
racksdelray.com
Mexican Diner
El Camino
No, you aren’t seeing things. El Camino not only won Best Happy Hour, but the soul food and tequila bar also took the most votes for best Mexican Diner. It’s no wonder. The restaurant keeps things fresh and authentic by making its own tortillas, sauces and even sangria. At dinner time, El Camino serves up made-to-order classic or spicy guacamole, followed by black kale or avocado salad, and ending, of course, with tacos. Find an extensive list of offerings, like gulf shrimp with chipotle salsa, veggie with sweet potato, carrots and mushrooms, and barbacoa with queso fresco—all served on corn tortillas with a side of Mexican rice and beans. Margarita Mondays let guests indulge in classic margaritas for just $3, while other nights of the week you can get fancy with guava-habanero or elderflower-cucumber margaritas. We’ll see you there at the next Taco Tuesday, or Wednesday, or Thursday, or…
15 NE Second Ave.,
Delray Beach
561.865.5350
elcaminodelray.com
European Restaurant
La Nouvelle Maison
It’s not every day that you are seated at a restaurant by a host dressed to-the-nines and greeted by a waiter who fills your water glass before you notice it’s running low. It’s also not everyday that you dine on items like grilled veal chop, steak tartare and three different caviar options. But at La Nouvelle Maison, this seemingly old-fashioned way of dining has made a strong return to Boca Raton. The owner of Trattoria Romana (which is also on this list for the Best Italian Food), opened La Nouvelle Maison after La Vieille Maison, originally located across the street, closed after a 30-year run. Today, the restaurant is a go-to for fancy dinner dates, big celebrations and those who want a decadent meal inside a gorgeous, yet not stuffy, atmosphere. Just be sure to make a reservation, as seats fill up fast.
455 E. Palmetto Park Road,
Boca Raton
561.338.3003
lnmbocaraton.com
Sweet Shop
Two Fat Cookies Bakery
Stepping into Two Fat Cookies Bakery feels similar to walking into your own kitchen, with the smell of freshly baked pastries. OK, maybe it’s just what you wish your own kitchen smelled like. Family owned and operated, the bakery is run by Debbie Wexler, her daughter, Zoey, and her husband, Jim. Wexler opened the bakery because her children insisted she do so after having sold the bakery she operated when they were young so she could spend more time with them. Today, with a family business, Wexler gets the best of both worlds by baking alongside her family. Together, they create tons of cookies (chocolate fudge, black and whites, apple pie squares), pies, tortes, cupcakes, cakes and everything else that pleases a sweet tooth.
245 NE Second Ave.,
Delray Beach
561.265.5350
twofatcookies.com
Mediterranean Eatery
Ouzo Bay
Mizner Park recently welcomed a new Mediterranean restaurant—and locals have been flocking to it ever since. Authentic Greek food is the focus of the menu: a fresh whole fish section sold by the pound will make you feel like you’re dining in Crete, while Kavourokeftedes (jumbo lump crab cake) Hirini (pork chop) give off intense Mediterranean vibes. But beyond the menu, the lounge is the true reason Ouzo Bay has quickly gained a name for itself. Sit outside on plush couches or inside at the bar and order handcrafted cocktails with fitting names like “Sunset over Zerzura” and “Athena’s Delight,” small batch whiskeys and a huge selection of Ouzo.
201 Plaza Real,
Boca Raton
561.757.0082
ouzobay.com
Yoga/Pilates/Barre Studio
Pure Barre
All you need is 55 minutes to understand why the Pure Barre craze has spread so quickly across the country. Here in Boca, the team at Pure Barre creates a welcoming atmosphere that leaves clients feeling stronger and healthier with every class. In short, Pure Barre is a full-body workout that targets problem areas most women struggle with (i.e. hips, thighs and arms). But unlike similar workouts that help these areas, Pure Barre is low-impact, protecting the joints, and incorporates stretching exercises after each section to promote long and lean muscles. Plus, the workout mirrors yoga by promoting a relaxed state of mind. Pure Barre instructors recommend going three to four times a week, and promise results in just 10 classes. Say hello to the new, healthier you.
9834 Glades Road,
Boca Raton
561.465.5994
purebarre.com
Juice Bar
Raw Juice
Living a healthy lifestyle just got so much easier. Raw Juice provides a delicious way to keep up healthy eating habits and promote a better sense of nutrition. The menu is full of juices, shots and acai bowls, plus oatmeal for breakfast, salads for lunch and treats for snack time. All juices are meticulously tested to make sure they are not only good for you, but also delicious. No matter your dietary needs (dairy free, gluten free, sugar free), you’ll find something appealing on the menu—like the Protein Blue juice made with almond mylk, banana, protein powder and blueberry, which keeps you energized all day; or the power bowl packed with nutrients like flax seed granola, hemp seeds and almond butter, plus your favorite fruits. If you’re looking for a full-body refresh, try one of the cleanses or stop in for a quick detoxifier shot. Nutritious and delicious seems impossible most of the time, but at Raw Juice, the art is mastered.
Multiple locations
rawjuce.com
Gym to Sweat it Out
Lx3 Kickboxing and Fitness
When picturing a gym, we often expect to see people working out on their own, headphones in, running on treadmills or lifting weights without any human connection. But if you’re looking for a workout full of support and community, try Lx3. Walking in, you immediately notice something different: everyone is working together. The classes are 50 minutes long and incorporate cardio intervals, muscle toning resistance training and core tightening kickboxing movements. While you sweat, the instructors are motivating you, providing inspiration in a lively atmosphere that helps you clear your mind and focus on the workout at hand. And great news for those in East Boca: a second location is opening this fall! Now there’s no excuse for not getting a workout in.
8221 Glades Road, Ste.13,
Boca Raton
954.588.5569
intensityx3.com
Alternative Medicine
Tao Foot Spa, Reflexology Lounge
When you’re feeling stressed, a yoga class, comforting beverage or TV show might help you relax. Or you can go to Tao Foot Spa. The ultimate stress reliever, Tao creates a calming environment from the moment you walk in. Soothing music plays throughout the spa, leading you gently into the first part of your treatment: a foot soak in hot, mineral-infused water, during which a massage therapist will start to work through kinks in your neck, shoulders and back. Then, you are led to a plush reflexology chair, where an expert works your feet and calves, melting away any stress (a lot of which we hold in our feet!). In addition to reflexology, Tao Foot Spa also offers meditation in 30- and 60-minute intervals. We’re relaxed just thinking about it.
133 E. Palmetto Park Road,
Boca Raton
561.347.8111
taofeet.com
Brunch Spot
Farmer’s Table
In this town, brunch is a serious matter. Some flock to the same spot every Sunday morning to meet a consistent group, while others try a new place every weekend, bringing along different family members and friends. But, mostly all of them eventually go to Farmer’s Table. With a focus on healthy foods, Farmer’s Table uses less salt and no butter or cream. Food is also prohibited from being put in a microwave. Start with the mezze board, complete with hummus, kale, pesto, tzatziki and olive tapenade, and continue with banana bread French toast—plus a few mimosas in between. And bonus: the owners just launched Farmer’s Table Express, a to-go output right next door to the main restaurant. Pick up snacks, salads, sandwiches and more in vacuum-sealed bags for simple meals you can make at home.
1901 N. Military Trail,
Boca Raton,
561.417.5836
farmerstableboca.com
Steakhouses (tied)
Abe and Louie’s
With only two locations in the country, we’re lucky to be home to one. The name comes from two important people in the founder’s life: his father and his good friend. Backpacking on that same idea of family and friendship, Abe and Louie’s has become the ideal spot for celebrating all of life’s milestones. Guests enter into a regal setting with white tablecloths and glassware already set up. A wine book is presented first, with more than 600 different choices from across the world, followed by a menu of steakhouse classics like prime pork chop, Chilean sea bass and perfect accompaniments including creamed corn, sweet potato fries and the most popular side dish, Abe’s lobster macaroni and cheese.
2200 Glades Road,
Boca Raton
561.447.0024
abeandlouies.com
New York Prime
Boca may not have a shortage of steakhouses, but when locals are looking for perfectly cooked steak, extensive wine options and a strong reputation inside a classy atmosphere, New York Prime is where they go. All steaks are made with only USDA grade prime cut beef and even the filets are barrel cuts only. The crab meat cocktail is made with jumbo lump crab meat instead of regular crab meat often used for this appetizer, and all fish is “the fish of the day.” The breads are handmade; and the wine list is personally selected. Need we say more?
2350 Executive Center Drive,
Boca Raton,
561.998.3881
newyorkprime.com
Italian Food
Trattoria Romana
It’s not easy to find Italian better than grandma’s, but with menu highlights like homemade gnocci, Frutti Di Mare (clams, mussels, shrimp, lobster and calamari in a light tomato sauce over linguine pasta), and the spicy favorite, Penne Arrabiata, Trattoria Romana comes close. Some things you might not find? A creative cocktail list featuring martinis filled with espresso, chocolate liquor and more. After indulging in all this, you’ll almost feel like you’re not only in grandma’s kitchen, but a kitchen that just so happens to be in the center of Rome.
499 E. Palmetto Park Road,
Boca Raton,
561.393.6715
trattoriaromanabocaraton.com
Thai Eatery
Eathai
If you have a craving for rich soups, spicy noodles and fresh seafood, Eathai is the place to go. Serving up traditional Thai food in an otherwise non-traditional setting (you’ll find long wood tables and benches, steel bar stools and neon signs), Eathai features an extensive menu with tons of options for vegetarians. For health-seekers, the Yum Yum Thai Spicy Salads are delicious and topped with papaya, shrimp ceviche and lemongrass coconut shrimp. Or opt for something more decadent like the crispy duck, spicy oxtail soup or pad Thai with crispy egg noodles. Just don’t fill up too much—Eathai also offers rolled ice cream, the latest trend in desserts, with a variety of Thai-inspired toppings and mix-ins.
1832 S. Federal Highway,
Delray Beach,
561.270.3156
eathaiflorida.com
Sushi Spot (tied)
City Oyster & Sushi Bar
It’s not hard to find fresh fish in South Florida, but when it comes to sushi, only a handful truly do it right. At the top of that list is City Oyster & Sushi Bar. The antique setting has walls filled with vintage photos, round booths and sushi served atop sleek white plates. Topped with mango miso sauce, our go-to roll is the aptly-named Delray Beach Roll, a California roll base, with shrimp, lobster, avocado and mango on top. Health-conscious eaters will be happy to see a full no-rice sushi section, and even those who don’t want to indulge in raw fish will find tons of things to eat: burgers, pastas and steaks.
213 E. Atlantic Ave.,
Delray Beach,
561.272.0220
cityoysterdelray.com
Yakitori Sake House
Elegantly plated and meticulously made, the sushi at Yakitori Sake House is only one reason it was voted best in Boca. Chef Jason (who is also the owner), has been a sushi pro for more than 15 years, learning first-hand how to create the ultimate roll. This shines through in his special rolls like the avocado-wrapped Pheonix Roll with spicy tuna, tempura flakes and interesting-yet-delicious, mustard sauce. But true to its name, Yakatori Sake House is also known for just that—its sake. Find tons of options in addition to a full bar with rotating drink specials.
271 SE Mizner Blvd.,
Boca Raton,
561.544.0087
yakitoriboca.com
Hidden Gem
Sundy House
Sundy House is so much more than just a restaurant. The historic site houses the oldest building in Delray Beach, built by the town’s first mayor, John Sundy, for his family. Eventually, it became the town’s first schoolhouse and church. Today, it’s been restored into a hotel, botanical garden and award-winning restaurant full of upscale items like foie gras, PEI mussels and filet mignon. On Sundays, it offers a brunch perfect for celebrating, with a per-person price featuring breakfast stations and bloody marys and mimosas, or an à la carte menu offered in the gardens, including everything from Nutella French toast and avocado toast to crispy fish tacos and the infamous Sundy burger.
106 S. Swinton Ave.,
Delray Beach,
561.272.5678
sundyhouse.com
Your votes are in. This year, the “Best Of” winners range from hip happy hour spots to great places to take the kids. Here are your top picks.