Boca Raton has emerged as, arguably, the pickleball capital of the United States, with padel holding court behind it. Star players, club managers and apparel retailers explain how the newest racquet sports have become a net gain for the city.
Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY
54
Hypocrite’s Row
For flaunters of Prohibition, there was no better place to be in the “dry 1920s” than South Florida—a region of rampant bootlegging and criminality where the rumrunners were folk heroes, politicians were complicit, and lawmen paid the ultimate price.
Written by ELIOT KLEINBERG
61 Special Section Florida Style & Design
From a notable diamantaire’s renewed storefront to the interiors of iconic restaurants and boutique health clubs, business owners are infusing their public spaces with the flair, personality and bespoke details of private homes. Plus, discover the chairs, lighting fixtures and accessories that offer home-y vibes in the most commercial of spaces.
Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT
APP pickleball player Sofia Sewing
20 Editor’s Letter
Drinking and dinking, volunteers and movie stars—Boca Raton is a perpetual smorgasbord of benevolence and nefariousness, celebrity and eccentricity. This issue of Boca epitomizes the city’s complicated mystique.
Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY
23 The Local
Meet a retired NFL cornerback trading pigskin for golf clubs, the woman overseeing the art on the walls of Boca’s most sprawling building, and the performers bringing music and memories to the residents who need it most. Plus, toast the founder of Tri-County Humane, explore a makeup artist's jet-setting new line, and more.
Written by TYLER CHILDRESS, ERICA CORSANO, PAIGE KORNBLUE, CHRISTIANA LILLY and JOHN THOMASON
34 The Look
From neon tweed and western wear to polished stone accessories and all shades of green, our local boutiques have our transitional season looks covered.
Photography by CARINA MASK
77
Backstage Pass
Beatles on the Beach headliner Morgan Freeman weighs in on the eternal John Vs. Paul debate and explains how blues legends and the Fab Four make perfect bedfellows. Plus, Festival of the Arts Boca wraps another year, the Boca Museum surveys a Beat Generation painter, a “Phantom of the Opera” star hits the high notes in Mizner Park, and more A&E highlights.
Written by JOHN THOMASON
115 Florida Table: Eat & Drink
See what our food critic has to say about Mia Rosebud and the renamed Brulé Gastro-Kitchen. Plus, a master bartender shares tips for the home mixologist, and wine experts from Hollywood to Jupiter spotlight underrated varietals.
Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT
140 Social
In this issue’s high-season society pages, the Fuller Center’s Wee Dream Ball raised $650,000, Men Giving Back paid it forward to 12 worthy nonprofits, Lynn University’s Gingerbread Concert added a jazzy swing to yuletide favorites, The Addison celebrated 100 years as one of Boca’s most historic buildings, and much more.
Written by TYLER CHILDRESS
152 Speed Bumps
To our former editor, South Florida has become an unrecognizable metropolis of construction cranes, marketing slogans and Northeastern accents, with the bubble around her Ocean Ridge cottage serving as an everyday reminder of the regional character we’re at risk of losing.
Written by MARIE SPEED
ON THE COVER: RONDÉ BARBER, photographed by CARINA
MASK
Web Extras
Visit bocamag.com for bonus items you won’t see anywhere else—extended stories, recipes, news and more.
RONDÉ-VOUZ
In our Local section, Floridian and retired Buccaneer Rondé Barber discusses life lessons and his return to the links at this year’s James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational (page 30). Visit bocamag. com/march-2026 for an extended video conversation between Barber and podcaster/reporter Paige Kornblue.
ONE PADDLE AFTER ANOTHER
Once you’ve explored the myriad places and ways pickleball and padel are sweeping Boca Raton (page 46), visit bocamag.com/march-2026 for a curated guide to pickleball gear.
BOCA MAGAZINE WINS BIG!
At last summer’s Florida Magazine Association Charlie Awards, honoring excellence in magazine writing, design and advertising, Boca magazine collected 23 awards in categories ranging from digital innovation and social media to our creative designs, our special advertising sections, and our investigative journalism, departments and service features—including securing first place in nine categories, among them Best Website in the state. Other honors for first-place Charlie Awards included Best Use of Photography, Best Cover, Best Public Service Coverage, Best Service Feature, Best Feature and Best Social Media. Congrats to the Boca magazine team and to you, our readers, for your continued support.
IN THE KNOW
Join Boca magazine’s weekly newsletter, The Scoop, for a roundup of the week’s top web stories. Get everything from city and dining news to arts and community happenings around town delivered straight to your inbox! Visit bocamag.com to sign up!
Don’t miss Boca on everything from FACEBOOK (facebook.com/ bocamag) to INSTAGRAM (@bocamag) and TWITTER/X (@ bocamag) for community news, retail trends, foodie updates and much more.
Best Bites
Think our dining guide is long? You haven’t seen anything until you’ve visited our digital version. We’ve got critic-reviewed restaurants from Jupiter to Miami on the web. Visit the Dining Guide tab to view the guide.
City Watch
Boca Raton is anything but sleepy, and Randy Schultz is the go-to for all the city politics, development and business news you need to know. For updates delivered straight to your email every Tuesday and Thursday, visit the City Watch tab on our website.
CARINA MASK
Paige Kornblue interviewing Rondé Barber
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Christiana Lilly
MANAGING EDITOR
John Thomason
WEB EDITOR
Tyler Childress
EDITOR EMERITUS
Marie Speed
SENIOR ART DIRECTOR
Lori Pierino
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Rafael Quiñones
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
James Karpinen
FOOD EDITOR
Christie Galeano-DeMott
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Aaron Bristol, Carina Mask
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erica Corsano, Eliot Kleinberg, Paige Kornblue
CONTROLLER
Jeanne Greenberg
CUSTOMER SERVICE/VIDEO PRODUCTION
David Shuff
DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING AND MARKETING
Nicole G. Ruth
DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION AND SALES SUPPORT
Bruce Klein
SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER
Gail Eagle
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Karen S. Kintner, Jenna Russo, Skyler Ruth
PROMOTIONAL WRITING
Margie Kaye
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Dining guide
Our independent reviews of restaurants in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. A reliable resource for residents and tourists. For more information, contact Christie Galeano-DeMott (christie@bocamag.com).
People
A photo collage of social gatherings and events in Boca Raton and South Florida. All photos submitted should be identified and accompanied by a brief description of the event (who, what, where, when). Email images to Tyler Childress (tyler@bocamag.com).
Paddles and Prohibition
Only in Florida do pickleball and booze coexist as well as they do in our pages
Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY
utting together each issue of Boca magazine, our team all refers to a shared document indicating the stories, photographs, restaurant reviews, fashion spreads and profiles that will go into the upcoming issue. It’s a living, breathing document, with adjustments made as we get closer to the day we go to print.
As I looked at the matrix for the March issue of Boca magazine, I giggled to myself, because it couldn’t be more Florida.
Within our main feature well, we were honored to have seasoned author and journalist Eliot Kleinberg write about the Prohibition years in Palm Beach County. Coinciding with his lecture on March 17 at the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, he reports on how resort workers on Palm Beach island would escape to West Palm Beach’s Banyan Street, the only street in the city allowed to sell alcohol. When it was renamed First Street, it was nicknamed “Thirst Street.” It’s no wonder that South Florida was called “the leakiest place in the country.” Kleinberg’s story on page 54 recounts the federal raids, legendary rumrunners and even murder, all in the name of booze.
Also in this issue is a deep dive into a newer craze sweeping through our community: pickleball. It seems like half the press releases that land in my inbox are about a new racquet center, the addition of pickleball courts, or even a pickleball paddle collaboration with Guy Harvey. It’s a flash in the pan, I thought in the beginning, and its ridiculous name doesn’t help. But as I spoke with directors of racquet sports at country clubs, pickleball players and business owners, it’s clear that pickleball is here to stay. It’s the fastest-growing sport in the country four years in a row, and everyone has their eyes on Boca Raton. You can read more about that
Of course, there’s the people who bring life to each issue of the magazine. Our Hometown Hero Suzi Goldsmith is celebrating 30 years of Tri County Animal Rescue, born right here in Boca Raton. Other do-gooders include Jeff and Joanna Kaye, whose Healing Arts initiative has grown exponentially, bringing music to people in hospitals and medical centers around town. Speaking of music, Hollywood legend Morgan Freeman sits down with Managing Editor John Thomason to discuss his Symphonic Blues Experience (page 78), a touring show headlining Beatles on the Beach at Mizner Park this month.
Yes—from history to lifestyle and movers and shakers, this is about as Boca as it gets. Happy reading, and see you next month.
CARINA MASK
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Schedule a private tour. Call (561) 529-9455 or visit HarboursEdge.com
Don’t Miss Events
JAMES HARDIE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME INVITATIONAL
WHEN: March 2-8 at the Old Course at Broken Sound
WHAT: More than two dozen NFL Hall of Famers will be trading their footballs for golf clubs alongside 78 PGA Tour champions, vying for a $2.2 million purse. Last year, the tournament raised $630,000 in donations to local nonprofits. jameshardieinvitational.com
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
WHEN: March 14 in downtown Delray Beach
WHAT: Now in its 56th year, the Delray St. Patrick’s Day Parade will kick off at noon with more than 70 participants from schools, veterans, first responders, local groups, nonprofits, pipe and drum bands, and more. stpatsdelray.com
BOCA STREET FEST
WHEN: March 28 at Mizner Park Amphitheater and Mizner Park
WHAT: From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., indulge in a marketplace from local vendors, live performances on two stages, and a State of the City presentation from the mayor. myboca.us/2445/boca-street-fest
Locals sound off on issues affecting our community.
What was your first concert?
“Jimmy Buffett. It was college, 1977—best friends, good times, and a season when I ordered a cheeseburger without hesitation and the margaritas went down easy. We loved the storyteller-songwriter whose music reminded us to savor life, find the joy, and come Monday, it’ll be all right.”
— Denise Alman, community volunteer
“My first concert was a Green Day show in Toronto in 2004, which I attended with behind-the-scenes access. Jimmy Eat World opened, and seeing a live show from that perspective made it unforgettable. I even kept a drumstick from Green Day’s drummer, Tré Cool, as a souvenir from that night.”
— Geoff Mateo, DMD, owner/dentist at Mateo Dental
“My first concert was *NSYNC on their No Strings Attached tour in 2000, and I remember being completely in awe of the whole performance. The stage was designed to make them look like real-life puppets on strings, and the choreography was incredible. The whole experience felt overwhelming in the best way and really opened my eyes to how exciting live music could be.”
— Ashley Ciccolini, associate director of Student Accessibility Services at FAU
James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational
BOCA CHATS
Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) might be known for its roots in tech, thanks to it being the birthplace of IBM, but it’s also emerging as an artist hot spot. Throughout the year, CP Group Art Curator Virginia Tobeason gives guests an insider look at the nearly 700 pieces of art.“I don’t curate the actual show; I say that I curate the building,” she explains. With 30 years of experience in the art world, she works with local grade schools, universities, art groups, museums, the city and even BRiC tenants to curate multiple galleries, giving them a place to showcase their work and hopefully even sell some pieces. workatbric.com/arton-bric-walls
Are people on tours surprised at the amount of art at BRiC?
People don’t even know the building exists. So, I think that’s another part of it, is we’re trying to create things that bring the com-
munity to the building. So if you don’t work here, what other things would bring you here? So this is one of the things.
What does this say about a company, wanting to utilize their space as a public art space?
[CP Group Managing Partner Angelo Bianco] is very focused on bringing art into the workplace. … He just thinks it’s the way forward for a lot of these corporations. … Once you had two or three schools down the hallway, everybody wanted to be in the hallway. I have plenty of people waiting [for a space] for when the time comes. We have a beautiful veterans exhibit on a different side of the campus, which is all veterans from all over the state.
Why is it important to have a variety of art levels on these walls?
I mean, we have a lot of hallways (laughs). ... I just think what was important for me and for us was to get local art. There are galleries around where you’re going to have
Lucky Charm
Because even your bags deserve an accessory.
more commercial stuff going on, and we wanted to brighten the hallways. We wanted the tenants to have a better experience here. ... Every single day I’m here, tenants are like,“Thank you so much for doing this. It really makes it a much better work experience.” So that’s part of what we’re doing. We’re getting the art wherever we can get it, as long as it’s local.
Photography on the walls at BRiC
WHAT: “CAMELOT”
WHEN: March 19-April 12
WHERE: The Wick Theatre, 7901 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton
COST: $89-$119
CONTACT: 561/9952333, thewick.org
Between the technical pageantry, the indelible characters and, foremost, the irresistible songs, “Camelot” continues to be a defining achievement of composer Frederick Loewe and lyricist Alan Jay Lerner. Riffing on the legend of King Arthur and all of its attendant pleasures— the time-traveling magician Merlin, the chivalric Knights of the Round Table, and the love triangle among Arthur, his spouse Guinevere and the dashing knight Lancelot—“Camelot” is flush with a timeless romanticism. The show’s 1960 Broadway premiere netted four Tony Awards, and actors such as Richard Burton, Julie Andrews, Robert Goulet and Richard Harris have donned the crowns, frocks and armor over the years. The Wick’s production is sure to be among its most lavish and enchanting shows of the season.
Beethoven never referred to his Piano Concerto No. 5 by its now-familiar sobriquet, the “Emperor Concerto,” because the great composer was no fan of his era’s emperor du jour, the warring Napoleon Bonaparte. But the military themes and heroic nature of this 40-minute masterwork have helped ensure its lasting appeal across more than two centuries. In 1860, Beethoven’s biographer called the “Emperor”“the summit of all concerto music ever written.”And in the words of a contemporary YouTube commenter, “I want to die to this music.”As of 2021, the piece held the record for the most-performed concerto at Carnegie Hall (215 times). At this performance, guest soloist Lindsay Garritson will lead from the piano.
PALM BEACH OPERA: “RIGOLETTO”
WHEN: March 20-22
WHERE: Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach
COST: $28.75-$218.50
CONTACT: 561/832-7469, kravis.org
For a tale named after a hunch-backed court jester, Giuseppe Verdi’s “Rigoletto” is no laughing matter. The 1851 tragedy has all the dark machinations of a Scorsese movie: a contract killer; a womanizing duke; the cursed title character, planning a revenge plot that goes awry; and an innocent daughter caught in the crossfire. Verdi’s source material, a Victor Hugo play, was so controversial that the composer was still writing and re-writing, in an attempt to appease the Austrian Board of Censors, until a month before the show’s premiere. Recognizing familiar archetypes amid its royal trappings, modern opera companies have changed the setting to New York City’s mafia culture, the Rat Pack era of ‘60s Las Vegas, the beastly anarchy of “Planet of the Apes” and Mussolini’s Italy.
PAT METHENY
WHEN: March 12-13, 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: The Parker, 707 N.E. Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale
COST: $82-$270
CONTACT: 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org
Pat Metheny has stayed humble. In a 2018 interview with the National Endowment for the Arts, the guitar god described the “balance of mixing a lot of written material with deeply challenging improvisational material” as “an area I’m still working on.”The labor continues all spring as the 71-year-old jazz titan tours with his latest quartet, Side-Eye III+. Fresh off a pair of spartan solo releases in 2023 and 2024, Metheny’s return to the classic quartet format is anything but a retreat into familiar structures. Always forward-thinking— from his embryonic work as a member of vibraphonist Gary Burton’s lyrical quintet, to his collaborations with mavericks like Ornette Coleman, to his embrace of a machine-generated orchestra on 2010’s “Orchestrion” project—Metheny’s music hums with vitality and beauty, freedom and swing. Side-Eye III+ sees him touring with emerging jazz stars Chris Fishman (piano), Joe Dyson (drums) and Jermaine Paul (bass).
Lindsay Garritson
Pat Metheny
“Rigoletto”
26 Restaurants + Galleries, Spas, Boutiques and More
Dining & Shopping Destination in Downtown Boca Raton
Suzi Goldsmith
As Tri-County Animal Rescue celebrates 30 years, meet the woman behind 100,000
ERICA CORSANO
hen Suzi Goldsmith first walked into the old Boca Raton Animal Shelter in 1986, she knew something had to change. The dogs were outdoors in the heat, there was no roof over the kennels, and euthanasia was routine. With fellow volunteer Jeannette Christos, she made a decision that would alter the trajectory of animal welfare in South Florida.
They left the city shelter, bought a small, rundown property in Lake Worth Beach, and began rescuing animals on their own terms. For years, they worked informally, sheltering nearly 100 dogs at a time and adopting animals out through places like PetSmart. In 1996, Tri-County Animal Rescue became an official nonprofit.
When the City of Boca Raton put its municipal animal shelter out to bid, Goldsmith and her team stepped forward. They secured a 75-year lease and took on full responsibility for the land, the buildings and animal control pickups. “The first thing we did was put a roof on,” she says. “And the day we took it over, we stopped euthanasia. That was our
The rescue also operates the Lois Pope Pet Clinic, opened five years ago to provide pro bono and accessible veterinary care that helps families keep their pets. There’s also a food pantry, assistance for residents who cannot afford pet care, and a thrift shop that supports people in need.“We’re community-minded,” Goldsmith says.“We help the animals, but we help the people too.”
This year, Tri-County celebrates 30 years as a nonprofit, and currently operates on 14 acres, rescues animals from high-kill shelters, hoarding cases, natural disasters and puppy mills, and has placed nearly 100,000 dogs and cats into loving homes.
NEVER SAYING NO: “You never know what condition an animal is coming from—Puerto Rico, Oklahoma, a hoarding case—so isolation and medical areas are crucial,” she explains.“But I don’t ever say no. If we have to put dogs in administrative offices for the night, we do it.”
Tri-County invests in intensive medical treatment, blood transfusions, extended rehabilitation, and outside veterinary specialists when needed. Euthanasia is reserved only for the rare cases where suffering cannot be alleviated.“We try everything,”she says.“Money is never the deciding factor—the animal’s comfort is.”
UNFORGETTABLE RESCUES: In 2017, Goldsmith removed 21
Great Pyrenees from a hoarding situation in Florida where the dogs had survived by eating cement and drywall.“It was the most horrific thing I’ve ever seen,” she says.“They had barely ever seen a human. They were starving, terrified, pregnant—but we saved them all.”
Another defining moment came after Hurricane Katrina, when Tri-County drove straight into the devastation.“[Philanthropist] Lois Pope paid for the gas, the food—everything,” Goldsmith recalls.“We rescued probably 100 dogs, maybe more.” One of them, a Great Pyrenees, was later adopted by Pam Bondi, then Florida’s attorney general.
LIFELONG CALLING: Goldsmith’s love for animals began in childhood in Michigan, where she volunteered at the Michigan Humane Society.“It’s made me a more caring, more passionate person,” she says. “Animals give you a kind of love no person can. … People can be selfish. Animals never are. They give you love 24 hours a day.”
ADVOCACY: If Goldsmith could change one thing about Florida law, it would be the eradication of puppy mills.“It’s all about money,” she says.“Most backyard breeders don’t care about the animals.” She and fellow advocates have helped shut down petstore puppy sales in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, North Palm Beach and surrounding areas— though Boca Raton, she notes, has proven more difficult due to strong lobbying pressures.“We’re still fighting,” she says.“And we’ll keep fighting.”
LOOKING AHEAD: A new building on the rescue’s property has already been approved by the county, and a ground-breaking is planned for early spring. The project will expand the hospital and add adoption space. “Without supporters like Diana and Mike Retzer—and so many others—we wouldn’t be here today,” she says. “I could only do so much on my own. Together, we’ve saved nearly 100,000 dogs and cats. I have to salute them.” tricountyanimalrescue.org
Staying the Course
An NFL Hall of Famer heads to the links for charity
Written by PAIGE KORNBLUE
Rondé Barber doesn’t measure success by trophies or titles. He measures it by the work no one sees. The extra rep. The preparation. The quiet refusal to take the easy road.
It’s a mindset that carried him from a 149-pound college freshman to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and one that still shows up today, whether he’s walking the fairways in Boca Raton or giving back to organizations close to his heart.
This March, that mindset brings Barber back to The Old Course at Broken Sound for the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational, returning March 2 to 8. Now in its second year, the fan-first event pairs PGA TOUR Champions professionals with Pro Foot-
Today, that competitive edge carries into golf. The James Hardie Invitational, Barber says, stands out for its blend of competition and camaraderie.
“The uniqueness is that it’s [the] greats of two sports,”he explained.“It’s the best players from the game of golf, and then you marry that with the greats of pro football. We have a mutual respect. It makes a really cool atmosphere during that [James Hardie] week.”
The Invitational supports Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County, and First Tee – Florida Gold Coast, among several other organizations, and raised a record $630,000 for charity in 2025.
“That’s the reason why you do it,” Barber says.“The
“It’s the best players from the game of golf, and then you marry that with the greats of pro football. We have a mutual respect. It makes a really cool atmosphere.”
— Rondé Barber
ball Hall of Famers, offering South Florida spectators the rare chance to walk alongside legends of both sports while supporting charities that directly impact Boca Raton and Palm Beach County.
Barber, inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2023, spent his entire 16-year NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, becoming the only player in league history with at least 45 interceptions and 25 sacks. He holds the record for 215 consecutive starts at cornerback and helped lead Tampa to a 2002 championship season, building a legacy defined by durability and preparation.
“It wasn’t ever easy. I wasn’t gifted my place in history,” Barber says.“It was always a little bit of struggle, but the struggle is probably the reason I am where I am today, and I embrace what I had to go through to get there.”
That journey began in Roanoke, Va., carried through the University of Virginia (where Barber lined up alongside his twin brother, running back Tiki) and continued after he was drafted in 1997 by Tampa Bay.
Former Buccaneers teammate and Boca Raton native Greg Bellisari described Barber as “the epitome of a successful person in any walk of life,” citing not just physical talent, but intelligence and toughness.
“I’m someone that always wanted to perfect what I was doing,” Barber says.“I studied a lot. I tried to know myself and my opponent better than anybody possibly could, and it paid off.”
main goal is to drive funds to local charities, because you have Habitat for Humanity putting families in affordable homes, First Tee promoting the growth of the game and youth getting involved in the sport, and supporting medical systems—it’s all beneficial. You don’t do that without great sponsors and a community that shows up.”
For Barber, giving back is a continuation of the principles that defined his playing career: the work, the consistency and the ability to keep perspective when things don’t go as planned. So when asked for his takeaway, whether it’s for a missed shot on the fairway, a fumble on the field, or a stumble along any path we’re navigating, his answer is rooted in steadiness.
“I would say it’s never as bad as it seems, and it’s never as good as it seems,” he says.“That’s how I’ve steadied myself and stayed the course. You’re going to have highs, and you’re going to have lows. Your worst day is probably not as bad as you think, and your best day is probably not as good as you think. But finding a way not to ride the emotional rollercoaster and just stay steady through it, that’s probably been me. That’s probably why I’ve been the guy I’ve been.”
It’s a perspective Barber returns to often, and one that ultimately shapes the message he hopes resonates most.
“Chasing the dream is not the goal,” he says.“Perfecting your pursuit is.”
CARINA MASK
Rondé Barber
We’re talking to the whole person, and we always ask what kind of music they want to hear instead of playing what we want to play.”
— Joanna Kaye
The Right Note
Patients in local hospitals find meaning and connection through Jeff and Joanna Kaye’s Healing Arts Project
Written by TYLER CHILDRESS
In the early days of the Healing Arts Project, Jeff Kaye struggled with the initiative’s mission of “soothing mind, body and soul a note at a time” as he played for hospital patients and staff. Created under the umbrella of JK Productions, the holistic production company started by Jeff and his wife, Joanna, the first Healing Arts performances were in the halls, lobby and waiting rooms of Boca Raton Regional Hospital. But it was also at Boca Regional where Jeff played one final trumpet performance for his mother before she passed away.
“It was bittersweet in the beginning,” Jeff says of starting the initiative.“It was really challenging to put those emotions in check. I didn’t look forward to going in the beginning; I wanted to send in my players.”
But he remembers the exact moment when that changed. Jeff was playing in the hospital lobby when restrictions had eased slightly during the COVID pandemic, and a woman approached him, visibly upset, and asked that he play for her father upstairs. Jeff got permission to set up outside the room to play, and the sounds of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” drifted through the hospital halls. The next day, when the father was released into hospice care, Jeff got a call from the woman, who asked that he play for her father again. It had to be that day, she said, as he might not make it to the next. That night, Jeff came out and played some more Sinatra tunes, and the father passed days later.
“It was that night when I realized how powerful this is, and I said to Joanna, ‘This is going to be my mission. This is bigger than us.’ And I think we both kind of had those ‘a-ha’ moments,” says Jeff.
Since that night, Healing Arts has expanded to Bethesda Hospital East under the umbrella of the hospital’s “Healing Through Music” program, for which it was awarded a $100,000 grant from Impact 100 Palm Beach County last year. The second phase of the grant will take them to Bethesda West and the Lynn Cancer Institute, and last year, Healing Arts reorganized as a nonprofit to raise funds for their future plans, of which Jeff has many.
ward new opportunities, Joanna is the hand that steadies the wheel and keeps the show on the road.
“I owe a lot to this woman, because she tends to rein me in,” says Jeff of his wife.“Because I tend to wake up and I’m looking in three directions, and then she kind of pulls the reins in and handles the administration and delegating.”
Joanna’s aptitude behind the scenes—informed by her role as executive director of Festival of the Arts Boca and as the host of a local public radio program on classical music for 15 years—extends to the stage, too, lending her voice to Healing Arts performances, which range from ‘60s folk to modern pop hits.
“It stretches you as a musician to be able to just jump into anything,” says Joanna.“I could sing a classical piece; I could sing Pat Benatar’s ‘Hit Me With Your Best Shot’ in the same day.”
Jeff and Joanna agree that it takes a rare kind of musician to fulfill the mission of Healing Arts. Jeff, as the former principal trumpet for the Florida Philharmonic Orchestra and Boca Symphonia (of which he is a founder), has played in all manner of packed concert halls, a talent that he’s found doesn’t always translate to playing a hospital room.
“We’ve had musicians come in who I thought would be a perfect fit, or the best players, but weren’t a perfect fit for Healing Arts,” says Jeff, and Joanna explains that a Healing Arts visit is about more than just the music, likening their role to that of a chaplain.
“We’re talking to the whole person, and we always ask what kind of music they want to hear instead of playing what we want to play,” she says.“We want to know that we’re making a connection, doing something that’s meaningful for them.
Joanna and Jeff Kaye
A few of the “nexts” that Jeff envisions include playing for hospice centers and pediatric wards, and bringing in other artistic mediums beyond music. But if Jeff is the engine of Healing Arts, always driving to-
“I tell people all the time, until you can be there in one of those situations and experience the impact, it’s really difficult to explain. I’ve been brought to tears many times. It’s so moving.”
CARINA MASK
Advanced Proton Therapy for Breast Cancer.
For women with breast cancer, especially left-sided disease, protecting the heart and lungs during radiation is essential. Proton therapy at the Lynn Cancer Institute in Boca Raton offers a safer, more precise option that reduces exposure to these critical organs.
Receiving care right in your community means less disruption to your daily routine and easier access to support during treatment. Our specialists create highly personalized plans designed to protect your long-term health while providing exceptional care. Advanced treatment without leaving Boca Raton is just one of the many advantages of proton therapy at the Lynn Cancer Institute.
Scan the QR code to learn more.
Neon
Tweed
Traditional apparel gets a modern update
WALTER BAKER
leather blazer, $748, top, $168, and skirt, $198; all from Walter Baker
Pins (set of 3), $180; from Filly & Colt
MARY FRANCES
beaded bag, $258; from Unique Boutique
ALEXANDRE
BIRMAN boots, $525; from Saks Boca
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Romancing theStone
GIANVITO
MALIPARMI chain belt, $248, MALIPARMI leather belt, $275; both from Filly & Colt
LUCAS JACK bangle, $130, LUCAS JACK ring, $75; both from Unique Boutique
ROSSI sandals, $1,095; CULT GAIA bag, $898; both from Saks Boca Stone pendant necklace, $290; from Nina Raynor
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THE ART OF LIVING FULLY
“Moving to MorseLife gave me more freedom than I ever expected. It feels like I’m creating a new masterpiece every day.”
– Joan R., Independent Living
Birds of a Feather
Glistening gems and soft plumes are calling our name
from Nina Raynor
CECELIA sandals, $149, from Jildor
Medical SPOTL GHT
Dr. Michael Liss’s dental training combines the best of all worlds. From earning his dental degree from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania and Tufts University for his periodontal residency, to studying under Professor Branemark, the father of modern implant dentistry, at one of Europe’s finest universities in Belgium, Dr. Liss garnered an up-close and personal introduction into the profession he would later master.
Today, Dr. Liss applies the latest cutting-edge techniques and technology for his patients, including periodontal surgery, treatment of gummy smiles, minimally invasive sinus lift procedures, oral periodontal plastic procedures (recession, papilla reconstruction), single implants, soft tissue management around implants, implants in the esthetic zone, full arch implant reconstruction with All on X—sometimes with Zygomatic implants, treatment of failing implants and minimally invasive bone repair around implants.
Dr. Liss’s main focus is bone reconstruction when the bone volume before placing the implant is not sufficient or when implants have failed. Whenever possible, these procedures are done with growth factors. With any case, first and foremost he favors saving teeth that are periodontally involved to prevent the need for implants.
Dr. Liss continuously enriches his knowledge through research articles and studies from all over the world to enhance patients’ quality of life and help them to chew and smile again.
“If you have been told you don’t have enough bone to place implants or your implants have failed, we might have a solution for you,” he emphasizes.
Photography: Michael Connor
Shades of Green
We count our lucky stars for the color wheel’s variety
KOZAN jacket, $225; from Unique Boutique
IN BED WITH YOU sweater, $340, DREAM JEANS, $288, F65 sneakers, $173; all from Filly & Colt Pouch, $25, bow pin, $25; both from Voyage Boutique
CARINA MASK
Nicklaus Children’s at Boca Raton is coming soon, bringing world-class pediatric cardiology closer to home, with expert care for congenital heart disease, fetal cardiology, general pediatric cardiology, and seamless access to advanced diagnostic testing.
Under the care of our multidisciplinary Heart Institute team, families will experience the same trusted excellence, now in your neighborhood. Because here, children matter most.™
Derive some fashion inspo from Yellowstone’s ranches
CARINA MASK
I always felt like I needed to mix 100 things to get this beautiful, luxurious glow, and I was just so tired of that.”
— Gina Simone
Passport Palette
A local celebrity hair and makeup artist creates beauty palettes for jet-setters
Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY
Before there were YouTube and TikTok makeup tutorials, there was the era of flipping through glossy magazines and admiring the editorial makeup by the likes of Pat McGrath, Kevyn Aucoin and Bobbi Brown. This was a world that Gina Simone would get lost in.
“Most of my inspirations came from the earlier days of the original supermodels and [being] obsessed with the amazing creativity of editorial fashion, and that really kind of got me interested in wanting to be a part of that world,” she says.
A 25-year veteran of the celebrity hair and makeup world, Simone left New York City for South Florida after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001; she was in the middle of a photo shoot when they had to evacuate to another borough. She decided to relocate to Palm Beach for the luxury lifestyle at a slower pace, and her work has been published in the same American and European magazines she used to admire. For her big break, Simone remembers a more established makeup artist referring her for a job.“She helped me get my foot in the door just by letting me take her place,” she says.
took me so long to pin down what I wanted to create.”
That was the birth of Artistboxxx, a vegan, cruelty-free and paraben-free line of lip oils and glosses, brow definers, luminizers and eye shadow palettes inspired by travel; her lines are Palm Beach, Amalfi and Hamptons.
“Being a makeup artist, working on set, I always felt like I needed to mix 100 things to get this beautiful, luxurious glow, and I was just so tired of that,” Simone says.“I wanted to create something for jet-setters, the girlies that really just want to simplify their routine but have this beautiful glowing look in a box, but created by an artist.”
New to her collection, she has added cabana bags and a travel brush set—just in time for spring and summer travel, with looks worthy of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
artistboxxx.com, @ab_beautyboxes, @gsbeaute
It’s not uncommon for makeup artists to make the leap to creating their own brands—think McGrath, Charlotte Tilbury, Huda Beauty, Jones Road and more—and it was an idea that Simone always had but didn’t know how to execute. That is, until she was doing the makeup of an investor; by the end of the session, she had brainstormed a brand and a plan.
“She was able to get the most beautiful ideas out of me,” Simone says.“I got in my car and cried; it just
Gina Simone and her lip gloss and Palm Beach eye shadow palette
HELP.
Children are being exploited and abused. Families are facing homelessness and are desperate for a safe place to call home.
I will not let them suffer anymore. N either will Place of Hope. Together we are launching a campaign to help.
Please join me and Place of Hope and take action today.
Amy Kazma “God’s Children. Our Future.” Campaign Solomon Society South County Campaign Chair
PICKLEBALL HEADQUARTERS
No
longer a fad, pickleball has proven that
it’s here to stay— and investors have their eyes squarely on Boca Raton
Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY
WWhen the executives at Wilson, the premier manufacturer of tennis gear, are talking about a sport other than tennis— you listen.
That was the case for Ken Herrmann. With a background in tennis—he was the head tennis pro at the Polo Club in Boca Raton in the early ‘90s—he didn’t think much of pickleball until a meeting at Wilson headquarters in 2018.
“I was in the process of opening up a new club in the Evanston, [Illinois], area when they [asked] me, ‘Where are your pickleball courts?’” he remembers. “I really took some time and learned the business of pickleball, and I was so surprised to see they had already had a U.S. Open, which is in Naples every year.”
Then he saw that Wilson had a line of pickleball clothing, paddles and balls—a big sign coming from a signature tennis brand. The next year, Herrmann formed the Association of Pickleball Players tour with USA Pickleball, the national governing body for the sport, and today he’s back in South Florida as the director of pickleball at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale. And in Boca Raton, pickleball has been on the radar for more than a decade. In December 2014, the City of Boca Raton introduced its first impromptu pickleball courts at the Sugar Sand Park Field House. Then in February 2020, four courts were built at Hillsboro El Rio Park South, the first permanent ones in the city. We all know what happened one month later.
APP pickleball players Sofia Sewing and Shelby Bates
Pickleball seemed to be a COVID-born hobby with a funny name, in the same realm as baking sourdough bread and bingeing “Tiger King.” But six years later, the sport has only continued to spike in popularity and now has two professional leagues. Municipalities are struggling to keep up with the demand (Boca Raton now has 51 public pickleball courts), and pro shops are making room for paddles and kitschy accessories. (Dink and drink, anyone?)
The sport grew in popularity during COVID when people were looking for an easy outdoor activity, and while it gained early traction among seniors, younger and younger players have shown an interest. The largest age group to participate in the sport, according to the SFIA, was people ages 25 to 34, with 2.3 million players. That includes professionals, many of whom have relocated to the Boca Raton area for access to training facilities—Ben Johns
In its 2025 Single Sport report, the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) calls pickleball “the fastest growing sport in the U.S.” for the fourth year in a row, with a 311% increase in participation since 2022. In 2024, 19.8 million Americans participated in pickleball, with an increase in every age group and in all regions of the United States.
Herrmann considers South Florida, Southern California and Arizona to be the jewels in the pickleball crown, leading the nation with courts and players.
and Parris Todd, to name two.
While it’s only made waves in the United States in the last decade, pickleball was invented in 1965 by a dad in Washington state trying to entertain his children; he gave them racquetball paddles, put up a tennis net on a badminton court, and pickleball was born (supposedly named after the fami ly’s dog, Pickle).
Sixty years later and on the opposite quadrant of the
country, Boca Raton’s country clubs, municipal parks, private neighborhoods and retailers have put pickleball front and center, with the city emerging as the pickleball capital of the country—or perhaps the world?
“There are a lot of places that call themselves the pickleball capital of the world,” says Brian
Levine, co-founder of Boca Paddle, set to open this spring.
“If you look at the professional game—and this is like a staggering statistic, but if you look right now—the top eight players in the world are all from Palm Beach [County]. Four of them are from Boca. … It’s pretty remarkable.”
One of those is Sofia Sewing, the No. 1 ranked singles pickle-
APP founder Ken Herrmann with APP player Sofia Sewing
Ground-breaking for Boca Paddle, opening this spring
ANDREW MILLAR
Brian Levine and Stewart Davis, co-founders of Boca Paddle
ball player in the Association of Pickleball Players (APP). Born and raised in Miami and now living in the Boca Raton area, when she’s not traveling internationally for tournaments, she makes the rounds through a pickleball trifecta, playing and training at Boca Woods Country Club in Boca Raton, Replay in Boynton Beach and The Fort in Fort Lauderdale.
But as a former junior pro tennis player whose dreams of going professional were dashed by incessant knee injuries, she wasn’t fully enamored with pickleball from day one.
“I thought pickleball was so stupid. In the beginning, I hated it. I was like, this is just going to be a way for me to make money and make a living,”she laughs.
“When I went on to the APP, I met all my friends, and I really started to learn how to play and be confident and get in that competitive spirit again. … I think I just needed to find my place, and once I did—now, I mean, I absolutely love pickleball. I have such a passion for it. It’s all I do all day long.”
FIND ME IN THE CLUB
There are neighborhood and municipal courts, but then there are the country clubs, of which Boca Raton has a seemingly endless amount.
Rob Norton has worked the courts at Boca West Country Club for 11 years, but he was promoted to director of racquet sports at the end of 2025. That coincided with the announcement of a brandnew, $20 million racquets facility that is scheduled to be unveiled this spring.
“Pickleball is obviously booming, and still booming all across the country, and one of the biggest reasons for that is the ease of play; the ‘barrier of entry’ is what we call it in the industry,” Norton says.“With tennis, if you play with someone who’s a little bit better than you or worse than you, it can ruin the game.”
Norton remembers seven or eight years ago when members asked about pickleball. The club converted its golf cart parking lot into makeshift courts, using duct tape and a kids’ tennis net. But the demand only increased, so the clay tennis court was converted into four pickleball courts, complete with redrawn lines.“Every time we built courts, it was full,” Norton says.
The number of courts will nearly double with the opening of Boca West’s new racquet facilities, fit with a Pickleball Center boasting 25 courts, 12 of which will be covered, as well as a stadium court, new locker facilities, a wraparound terrace, event lawn and a pro shop completely dedicated to pickleball. When the center is completed, Boca West’s pickleball courts will officially outnumber its tennis courts.
During our call in January, Norton crunched the numbers: In one day, 225 people used the pickleball courts, while 60 played on the tennis courts.“Almost every tour that comes through here, the people ask to see the pickleball complex,”he says.
For country clubs, it’s a balancing act to respect the storied tradition of tennis while embracing new sports coming into the landscape. Currently, Boca Grove has 12 clay tennis courts (including one imported Italian red clay
Parris Todd and Ben Johns, both PPA players
A rendering of Boca West Country Club’s soon-to-open racquets facility
Rob Norton
JOHN GELDERMANN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO
stadium court), five pickleball courts and two padel courts.
“If you are only a tennis facility, you won’t survive,” says Dalibor Nikolin, director of racquets at Boca Grove.“You need to open your offerings; you need to [be] open to pickleball and padel. We want healthy, active communities, and those two sports offer that.”
Nikolin introduced a 55+ pickleball league two years ago, adding socials such as drink mixers and glow-in-the-dark pickleball. Boca Grove was also the first club in South Florida to open padel courts.
“We’re getting some people who have never been into racquet sports, so they’re attracted to pickleball and padel,” Nikolin says, agreeing that pickleball’s popularity stems in large part because it’s easy to pick up. “Grandparents can still play with their grandkids and even beat them. … In tennis, that’s impossible.”
However, while pickleball is popular, tennis still reigns supreme for Boca Grove members. When reviewing their monthly numbers in January, Nikolin says the country club had more than 1,300 people playing tennis, 600 playing padel, and 550 playing pickleball. His vision for the club is to be recognized for its overall racquet facilities. He looks forward to being able to hold tournaments in all three spots,
“If you are only a tennis facility, you won’t survive. You need to open your offerings; you need to [be] open to pickleball and padel.”
—
Dalibor Nikolin, director of racquets at Boca Grove
Dalibor Nikolin, at right, and glow-in-the-dark pickleball at Boca Grove, below
Just across the street from bustling Mizner Park is the new MatchSet, a haven for the racquet-inclined. There’s floorto-ceiling displays of tennis strings, balls, pickleball paddles, padel shoes, athleisure wear,
a podcast lounge and even a scaled-down pickleball court.
Josh and Stephanie Freedman, who moved down to Boca Raton during COVID from Michigan, opened the doors to MatchSet in October.
“You couldn’t really find a store that catered to every racquet need you could possibly have, while also scratching the
lifestyle itch, and we’re trying to accomplish that,” says Josh, who practiced law for 20 years.
Here, customers can try out their gear before heading to the cash register. And at the window, one can see the String Lab, where two seasoned professionals are able to use a machine to expertly restring tennis racquets. As for the clothing,
MICHAEL CONNOR
hanging from the racks and on display are apparel and accessories from Adidas, Yonex, Varley, Redvanly, Ace the Moon and Municipal. Customers come not just from Boca Raton, but Delray Beach, Pompano Beach and even Wellington.
Already, the company has served as a sponsor for the USTA Boys 18 & 16 National Clay Court Championships in Delray Beach. There’s plans to bring the community together through regular charity table tennis tournaments, and the Freedmans would also like to partner with local charities to host fundraisers in their store.
The family’s move to South
Florida was prompted by their son Max’s tennis career; he is a junior tennis pro. Josh explains that for someone wanting to be “great” at racquet sports,“there’s really no other place, in my opinion, to be.”
“I think that it’s the racquet capital of the world,” Josh says, of Boca Raton.“It started with tennis and has now blossomed into pickleball and padel.”
UNDER
CONSTRUCTION
The City of Boca Raton has fully embraced pickleball, boasting 51 courts throughout the city.
LOCAL PROS
• Anna Leigh Waters, Boynton Beach (No. 1 doubles, singles and mixed, PPA)
• Ben Johns, Boca Raton (No. 1 doubles, mixed, PPA)
outdoor courts, including two that are ADA-compliant, with 15 more uncovered courts on the way. That’s in addition to the designated courts at University Woodlands park, Sand Pine Park, Boca Tierra Park and Meadows Park.
In 2023, the Greater Boca Raton Beach & Park District put out a request for proposal (RFP) for a paddle facility; Boca Paddle won the bid against four other contenders. Scheduled to open this spring in Boca Raton’s North Park, Boca Paddle will provide a central hub for pickleball enthusiasts, who can not only have a place to play but also a space to work, enjoy a meal, indulge in spa services and even do their physical therapy.
“The key thing for Boca Paddle is it’s not just about creating more courts. There are a lot of
Major League Pickleball.
There will be 19 indoor pickleball courts, six padel courts, saunas, cold plunges, a pro shop and a full-service restaurant and bar managed by Farmer’s Table—plus a dedicated soundproof work room and a partnership with a wellness and physical therapy company.
Stewart Davis, co-founder of Boca Paddle, cites the success of Austin Pickle Ranch in Texas as a blueprint while referring to the Boca Raton community’s embrace of racquet sports.
“Boca ticks all the boxes demographically,” Davis says. “It’s a high-end demographic where people would be more than happy to spend a little bit of money for a community like this. And I think our work, our price point, is actually quite low compared to what they spend on a [club] membership.”
Josh and Stephanie Freedman, above, and their store, MatchSet, below
CARINA MASK
UP NEXT
Just as we get a handle on pickleball, another sport is seeping into the United States by way of Europe and South America: padel.
Nalle Grinda, founder and Chief of Padel of Padel X, remembers seeing a padel court for the first time in 1984 when he was 8 years old. The son of French tennis player Jean-Noël Grinda, Nalle grew up around tennis and saw the first-ever padel court at the Acapulco home of Enrique Corcuera, the inventor of the game. A mix of tennis and squash, the sport requires more athleticism than pickleball but far less than tennis.
For Grinda, padel was just a fun vacation sport that he would indulge in every now and then. He was an active tennis player, rising to the No. 1 men’s player at UCLA. However, injuries prevented him from going further; when he returned to France in 2001, he was introduced to professional padel.“I immediately saw an opportunity to A: continue competing in a racquet sport, and B: to protect my shoulder,” he says.“In tennis you have to serve 120, 130 miles per hour every other point, and that’s what was causing me some injuries.”
Grinda joined the French national team and was the No. 1 player for six consecutive years, participating in pro tours. In 2004, he “convinced” the Nice Lawn Tennis Club in France to “sacrifice” a tennis court to build two padel courts. He promoted the sport for years, then partnered with Juan Pablo Leria to form Padel X in 2022, opening their first location in
sports is tremendous,”Grinda says.“We felt that these were great metrics to expand out of Miami, and the goal of Padel X
While other paddle facilities look to be one-stop-shops for athletes to work and play, Padel X sim
lounge, and dozens of clinics, training camps and academy events each week. In September, Padel X partnered with the United States Padel Association to form the Junior Elite Padel Program, the first USPA-sanctioned junior academy in the nation. The facility has even hosted dating events, allowing players to meet new friends on the court and continue their conversation off it.
Boca Paddle is also taking notice of padel, with six courts planned for the facility. While leadership is cautiously wary of the sport—you can’t talk about padel without bringing up the padel bust in Sweden during the pandemic (see sidebar)—the team thinks it’s worth including.
“It was very important to us to have this padel component, because what you’ve seen mostly pop up in other parts of South Florida, especially in Miami, are these padel-exclusive clubs. … A lot of people want to play both and want to be able to have the option for both,” says co-founder Davis.
Nikolin, the director of racquets at Boca Grove, says tennis players enjoy the transition to padel, since it incorporates a lot of the sport’s elements, like volleys and overheads.
Above, Padel X. Below, Nalle Grinda and Juan Pablo Leria, cofounders of Padel X.
PAUL AYALA
FROM RACQUETS TO PADDLES
Sofia Sewing started playing tennis when she was 8 years old, moving to online school at age 10 to support her athletic career. At 13, she began her career as a junior tennis player and was ranked No. 9 by the International Tennis Federation and No. 23 in the world. She competed in the Wimbledon Juniors and Roland-Garros Junior French Championships. On track to go pro, she joined the tennis team at the University of
Miami.“That was my whole life from when I was very young,” she says of tennis.
However, a series of knee injuries would hold her back. She had to take time off from collegiate tennis, and her last tournament was in April 2024.
“I was doing doubles for the last six months because my knees were so unbelievably bad I couldn’t play singles anymore,” she says.“It’s really hard to step away from tennis.”
After devoting her life to the sport, Sewing heard about another sport: pickleball. Her friend had just been signed
“All the training that I put in, how hard I compete, everything I sacrifice for [pickleball], I am rewarded for.”
— Sofia Sewing, professional pickleball player
THE SWEDISH PADEL BUST
When talking about padel, the Swedish padel bust is bound to come up. However, Padel X co-founder Nalle Grinda says, “I’m not too worried about that.”
During COVID, padel facilities increased 1,000% in Sweden— for a country of just under 11 million (Florida's population is more than twice that). To replicate this, Grinda says Miami-Dade County would have to build 7,000 courts; right now, there are just 120. From 2022 to 2023, more than 120 padel courts in Sweden went bankrupt. “Everybody and their mother wanted to be a padel club owner, and the hype went way too high,” Grinda says.
While the bubble burst, the sport has adjusted to a more manageable level of courts. Sweden ranks internationally for its number of padel players, with Visit Stockholm reporting 500,000 people participating. Grinda also says the economics won’t allow it to happen in the U.S. “The simple reason is the real estate prices and the price of expanding in the United States is 10 times compared to Sweden,” he explains. “The economics will not make sense to build as many courts as it did in Sweden.”
to the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), and her contract was enviable. This was an indicator to Sewing that pickleball was not a passing fad. “The people were making way more money than me in tennis. I was like, ‘Oh my lord.’ Like, this is insane,” Sewing says. “Honestly, the last two months of my tennis career, that was in the back of my mind. And when you’re not fully committed to tennis, it’s not going to happen.”
Switching over to pickleball wasn’t as easy as some may think for a former tennis junior pro; she had to unlearn certain techniques that had been engrained in her since she was 8 years old.
learning pickleball and training for hours a day with the goal to get signed as a professional player as well. She also got a job coaching tennis so that she could pay tournament entry fees. More senior players took a chance on her to play doubles (in a team, individual players’ scores are combined, allowing better players to lift up their teammates—Ed.). By the spring of 2025, she was able to quit her job and play pickleball full time.
Now, she’s the No. 1 women’s player in the APP, and the sport has taken her across the country as well as to Vietnam, Malaysia, India, England, Japan and, earlier this year, Down Under, in pickleball’s Australian Open.
Sofia Sewing competes in the APP tour
“In tennis, it was so difficult, because you suffer so much and sacrifice so much and put so much effort and time and your life into it, and you get very little rewards,” Sewing says.“In pickleball, it’s been the opposite. All the training that I put in, how hard I compete, everything I sacrifice for it, I am rewarded for.”
With tennis in the rearview mirror, Sewing committed to
As for Boca being the pickleball capital?
“That’s, I think, how I was able to also get so good so fast, because there’s so many good players that I was able to train with who beat my butt in the beginning and made me better. I think a lot of places are lacking in that, and so it’s hard to obviously improve and grow as a player. But being here, it definitely is the pickleball capital for sure.”
Men in Duval County stand next to their equipment to make moonshine.
Hypocrite’s Row
How South Florida openly defied Prohibition, making it “the leakiest place in the country”
WRITTEN BY ELIOT KLEINBERG
Boca Raton insurance agent Robert Moncure III said the words that make reporters’ knees knock: “I have a box under the bed.”
Inside it, a trove of letters from his grandmother Liza Moncure to her dead husband. The letters, shown by Moncure to a reporter in 2005, weren’t ghoulish. They were heartbreaking. Liza wrote, “How can I go on living?”
Robert Knox Moncure’s life ended on a West Palm Beach porch on Jan. 18, 1930. He was a federal agent, enforcing the most unpopular law of its time: Prohibition. Its romantic image is of a cocky gangster always staying ahead of shotgun-toting lawmen and asserting that he just gave folks what they wanted. A victimless crime … unless someone got in the way. Sometimes, a cop.
Prohibition kept lips parched from 1920 to 1933. But, in a lot of places, not really. Miami historian Paul George says no place flouted the “Noble Experiment” with as much impunity as did South Florida: “We were called the leakiest place in the country.”
Bars couldn’t sell booze, and the state couldn’t tax it. Bad guys filled in the vacuum. As with much of the country, Florida was dotted with stills, run by mom-and-pops or by the big gangsters. But that wasn’t the big money.
Florida is the only state in the country with nearby foreign is-
lands—look at a map, and South Florida juts out. A fast boat could, in a few hours, be at the docks in the British colony of the Bahamas. A case of liquor was $18, about $300 in today’s dollars. Back in Florida, it was double that on the street. Or behind closed doors. “Hams”—burlap sacks packed with straw, paper and six bottles each—made their way to speakeasies and restaurants and hotels. Cartels made sure cops were motivated to look the other way.
One Palm Beach hotel had a secret room where guests could drink with impunity. Its name: Hypocrite’s Row.
“Thirst Street”
From 1895 to 1935, South Florida would hold several “dry” votes. All would fail, one by just three votes.
West Palm Beach had had a problem from its beginning. Workers building resorts across the water in Palm Beach in the 1890s and early 1900s went to the mainland for fun, to the only street in West Palm Beach where alcohol officially was permitted: Banyan Street. Saloons, gambling halls and brothels operated around the clock. In 1925, the city renamed the street First Street. All that did was inspire people to call it “Thirst Street.”
Broward County’s very origin might have been related to
booze. In a 1913 referendum in Dade County (it changed to “Miami-Dade” in 1997), the Fort Lauderdale part of the county supported Prohibition. The Miami area, wanting to boost tourist trade, went strong for liquor. The ban was approved, and South Florida went dry for the first time since it was settled in the late 1800s. But the rift soured the Miami area on its northern neighbors, easing the way for Broward to split off in 1915.
In 1926, the Broward sheriff was charged with accepting protection bribes from federal agents posing as bootleggers. A federal raid would net some three dozen arrests, including the sheriff and all six of his deputies, as well as the Fort Lauderdale police chief and eight patrolmen. Authorities seized eight large stills, 300 gallons of moonshine, and 10,000 gallons of“mash,”a mixture of grains and hot water that is fermented to produce alcohol.
Business was the same to the north in Palm Beach County. In 1922 alone, a report said, authorities destroyed 26 stills and seized 96 gallons of moonshine and 232 gallons of other liquor, along with 232 barrels of mash. In 1927, the U.S. Treasury Department created the Bureau of Prohibition Agents. Not surprisingly, many were assigned to South Florida.
One of them was Bob Moncure.
after Sundown
In Prohibition’s upside-down world,“dry men” were the “jackbooted thugs” of their time, and booze suppliers were heroes.
George W. Moore reportedly supplied the Boca Raton Resort and Club (now The Boca Raton) and select establishments in Palm Beach. In January 1930, a snitch tipped the feds that Moore had sold him 13 quarts of whiskey. On Jan. 18, Moncure, armed with a search warrant in his pocket, stepped onto the
porch of Moore’s home, just south of downtown West Palm Beach. A second agent, Frank Patterson, went around back.
A shotgun blast through the front door dropped Moncure. Moore wheeled to see Patterson coming in the back door and shot him down as well.
Widow Liza Moncure later told a reporter that if“dry-voting, wet-living”congressmen and corrupt judges could be brought down, “I would face my broken home and my joyless future with calm resignation and feel my ruined life a small price to pay.”
In the trial for Moncure’s murder, lawyers for Moore argued the search warrant was for daytime only and the lawmen arrived four minutes after official sundown. Moore testified he didn’t know the men were agents and believed they were criminals committing a home invasion. Prosecutors verbally rolled their eyes. But jurors took just 24 minutes to acquit Moore.
He later would be convicted on federal charges in Patterson’s death and sentenced to 10 years. He would die at 67 in 1958. A small obituary listed him as owner of a roofing and paint company.
Liza Moncure had run into Moore in court. She later wrote to her dead husband,“O my darling, how did I keep from rushing in and tearing him apart with my bare hands.” She never remarried, and she died in 1968.
“
the Pirate
”
Moore might have been an antihero to some, but the Gulf Stream Pirate was a downright rock star.
In 1927, the U.S. Coast Guard got a tip that rumrunners were using counterfeit U.S. currency on Bahamian docks. On Aug. 7, a third of the way from Bimini back to Florida, a cutter spotted and stopped a ship. The crew found hams full of booze. The man
Prohibition agent Robert Moncure, rumrunner Horace Alderman, and news of Alderman’s hanging
“The money I made neither did me nor my dear family any good. We thought it did, but no. You can see what it has done—a death sentence by hanging—and a brokenhearted family.”
—Horace Alderman
pulled a gun. In seconds the Coast Guard skipper, a Secret Service agent and a machinist were dead, and another man was wounded. The rumrunner was beaten and tied to a mast. His name: James Horace Alderman.
Women packed court to see the charismatic Alderman, resplendent in a white suit with a red rose in the lapel. Jurors weren’t impressed. Under an obscure maritime law that called for hanging pirates at the first port reached after arrest, Alderman was hanged at the Fort Lauderdale Coast Guard base. He’d written The Miami Herald,“The money I made neither did me nor my dear family any good. We thought it did, but no. You can see what it has done—a death sentence by hanging—and a broken-hearted family.”
The Coast Guard base is now the Bahia Mar Yacht Club.
a Bullet for the Sheriff
Arguably, even the Gulf Stream Pirate couldn’t match the fame, or infamy, of John Ashley, whose gang did moonshine and rumrunning but also robbing, hijacking and murder.
Ashley allegedly murdered the son of a Seminole leader in 1911; a jury deadlocked. In 1915, during a bank robbery in Stuart, a gang member fired an errant shot that shattered Ashley’s jaw and cost him his left eye. Ashley had a death feud with Palm Beach County’s first sheriff, George Baker, and would send him bullets “with your name on it.” Baker would tell Ashley that one day his glass eye would be on a watch fob.
Later, his brother Bob Ashley shotgunned a deputy at the Dade County Jail to try to free John. But the commotion brought people, and Bob jumped into a car. A Miami city police officer caught up to him, and both died in the gunfire. The officer would become the first in the department to be slain in the line of duty.
Three years later, Ashley escaped from a road camp. With Prohibition in place, he and his gang operated stills in the woods of northern Palm Beach County, then sparsely populated, and ran rum from the Bahamas. It was on one of those runs that two other brothers, Ed and Frank, vanished.
In 1923, Ashley and his gang robbed a Pompano Beach bank, and he left a bullet daring Palm Beach County Sheriff Bob Baker, George Baker’s son, to look for him in the Everglades. A year later, authorities would raid the Ashley moonshining camp in rural western Martin County. A deputy and Ashley’s father would die.
The end came Nov. 1, 1924, at a highway bridge near Sebastian. Ashley and three gang members were stopped and “shot escaping.” Decades later, a retired deputy confided to Treasure Coast historian Ada Coats Williams that he’d been on the bridge that night, and the gang members were essentially executed. His one condition: she keep the story secret until after all the deputies involved had died—including him. Williams kept her promise.
Prohibition ended in 1933. But the Great Depression was well on. Liquor was legal again—but many couldn’t afford it.
Florida native and retired Palm Beach Post reporter Eliot Kleinberg spent nearly a half-century reporting on local news and writing about Florida and Florida history. He produced two history columns and wrote fourteen books—and co-wrote or contributed to several more—all of them about Florida. “Hypocrite’s Row,” the first of the four-novel series “The Adventures of Nate Moran,” was published February 2026. He will be speaking at the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum on March 17 and the Boca Raton Public Library on March 26.
John Ashley, at right, and three members of the Ashley gang were killed at the bridge above.
ELLIOTT MUSEUM
STUART HERITAGE MUSEM
Entrepreneur Spotlight ES
Short-term rentals—commonly known as Airbnbs—consistently outperform annual and seasonal leases, delivering higher ROI and stronger resale value. Still, many Florida homeowners hesitate. The reason? The perceived headache: setup, design, pricing, guest communication, and the day-to-day details that separate a high-performing asset from an average rental. That’s where Exhale Vacation Rentals & Design and founder Elona Diamond step in, so that clients can “breathe easy and earn smarter,” she assures.
Exhale is South Florida’s preeminent—and rapidly growing—vacation rental management company, redefining what it means to own a short-term rental.
amenities like heated pools that drive demand yearround. For homeowners, the experience is just as refined. Properties are impeccably maintained, always guest-ready, and strategically managed to maximize both occupancy and nightly rates—without owners having to lift a finger.
Exhale Vacation Rentals and Exhale Designs
Known for creating stays that feel like boutique hotels with the soul of a private home, the company’s portfolio is intentionally curated. Every property is uniquely created to meet the Diamond standard: desirable locations, elevated finishes and resort-style
The team takes a hands-on approach to every home to exceed expectations of today’s Florida traveler. From tailored design and marketing strategies to thoughtful upgrades—fresh paint, enhanced landscaping, pool installations and curated furnishing packages— every decision is considered. The result? Homes that outperform in today’s competitive Florida rental market while increasing long-term property value.
For local property owners looking to unlock the full potential of short-term rentals, Exhale proves that when smart management meets exceptional design, returns aren’t just higher—they’re effortless.
Elona Diamond
FLORIDA STYLE & DESIGN
The Seagate in Delray Beach recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation.
Public Domain
Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT
Commercial spaces across South Florida have shed their sterile past, embracing a more residential sensibility layered with comfort, durability and luxurious details. Design pros share their insights on how they create memorable environments that are just as welcoming and stylish as our homes.
HIGHER ORDER
DESIGNER: Nicole Nowinski, Nicole Alexandra Interiors
We have dance clubs and cocktail clubs, and they’re alluring because they’re fun and swanky. But what about a wellness club that offers a similar atmosphere and an equal sense of connection? Founders Ryan and Brittany Brown have curated Higher Order, a members-only social wellness club in West Palm Beach that does just that. They worked with designer Nicole Nowinski, Brittany’s sister, to bring the sophisticated sanctuary to life.
Nowinski was laser-focused on creating an elevated wellness experience that traded a clinical, sterile environment for one that feels comfortable, where guests want to linger. She curated a design that bridges luxury hospitality with holistic wellness by incorporating natural materials and a palette inspired by the elements to create a moody, soulful space that is intentionally layered throughout.
“Every material was chosen for its tactile quality,” Nowinski explains.“I wanted to invite touch and connection, so everything feels soft and luxurious and cozy.”
And she embellished the space with unlacquered brass, uplit raw-wood pillars and lush greenery throughout, creating an elevated Mother Earth-inspired design that patinated, grew and shifted over time.
For the alchemy bar—the club’s beating heart—Nowinski was enamored with dramatic tempest quartzite, which she felt embodied Mother Nature in a stone with green, brown and beige colors swirling around heavy veins that ground the space. Paired with turmeric-or-
ange velvet stools, this bar is where guests can sip on functional mocktails and botanical elixirs. Nowinski wanted the bar to pay homage to Old World rituals like pausing over a drink amid a quiet intimacy—reimagined for a new era of wellness.
“We wanted to create a new category of luxury social wellness clubs, a space where design, energy and intention come together,”she says.
To foster socialization, Higher Order’s IV infusions are on wheels, allowing members to move freely throughout the nearly 3,000-squarefoot club. Healers, or nurses, can tend to clients as they lounge on the custom Italian brown leather sofas, which convert into beds, or as they enjoy a mocktail on the nearby olive-green banquettes.
Nowinski masterfully integrated unexpected touches into the club, like the bar’s vintage ashtrays that now cradle sage rather than cigars, the walls’ ultra-creamy limewashed plaster, the steam room’s vintage Tibetan bowls that sing as water drips into them, and bronze-hued, backlit mirrors that reflect the ultimate influencer-approved filtered reflection.“When you look into each mirror, you look like the most beautiful version of yourself because of the bronze, glowy light,” she explains.
Brass seashell-like sconces cast a similar glow that dances up and down the hallway leading to the elemental recovery room, which features the cedar-planked sauna, steam room and painted-concrete cold plunge. Past a seamlessly flush door adjacent to the mahogany lockers, the Sanctuary emerges.“You are transported into another realm like Narnia,” she says.“It completely hits you with an insane feeling, and you are transformed the second you’re in.”This studio, which hosts the movement and mindfulness programming, is limewashed in a rich golden brown, with illuminated mirrors and a 2,000-year-old bronze gong.
Above: The flooring throughout had to withstand water exposure, so the designer chose a tile that resembles brown walnut wood.
Below: Alabaster wrapped in unlacquered brass illuminates the communal lounge designed for reconnection.
MICHAEL O’MALLEY
CAFÉ BOULUD
DESIGNER: Lauren Hastings, LSI Designs
Daniel Boulud is a culinary icon, so when the legendary chef was ready to renovate his Palm Beach restaurant, the goal was to masterfully refine a space that evokes casual tropical luxury and sets the tone for a memorable Boulud epicurean experience. Lauren Hastings is The Brazilian Court Hotel’s longtime in-house designer who has renovated the hotel, including its guest suites and public spaces, alongside hotel owner Bobby Schlesinger.
It’s hard to imagine that the original Café Boulud, which opened in 2003, didn’t feature its now uber-popular illuminated bar nestled in the dining room as guests enter through the hotel lobby. Hastings revised the original floor plan to include the beloved bar in the restaurant’s first redesign in 2015. When it was time for Café Boulud’s second glow-up, the space was designed to offer the same level of luxury and fine dining that Palm Beach clients expect, while also appealing to a younger crowd. Hastings upholstered the brass barstools in a marvelous, rippling Hermès velvet reminiscent of the ocean’s movement. She also added a drink rail to the bar with a matching Cristallo quartzite top and brass finishes to expand the bar’s capacity, topping it with a glass screen to divide it from the dining room.
The flooring, previously carpeted and now European herringbone white oak, was one of the biggest changes in the space. The other major edit was transforming the bar-adjacent dining room into a sans-white-tablecloths space that feels like a tropical oasis by day and a livelier, more informal retreat after sunset.
It was imperative that the restaurant feel like an extension of the lobby’s new look, so Hastings carried through a similar palette of greens and golds. She introduced a botanical timelessness to the space with Italian custom cane chairs with distressed velvet cushions and fabulous, organic Hermès wall upholstery, creating a sense of movement that she echoed in the banquettes.
The style is more residential and softer this time, so Hastings ensured she delivered the luxury that Café Boulud and its founder are known for, while maintaining durability by choosing materials
Designer Lauren Hastings worked with local vendors for a lot of details, from the millwork to the antique mirrors, and sourced local and international artworks, including pieces by actor Jordi Mollà. The bar face was draped in an organic Phillip Jeffries wallpaper, trimmed with wood detailing to carry the flooring’s color tone up.
that age gracefully, like plush mustard-yellow upholstery and tufted genuine leather in the banquettes.
“Having the ability to source and procure some really beautiful things was really exciting,” she says.“And it’s Daniel Boulud, so you have to go all out.”
Hastings kept the stunning mother-of-pearl mosaics that adorn the illuminated ceiling coves, a historic architectural detail. But the rest of the formerly cold, white and gray space was redesigned to evoke a warm sunset glow through lighting and furniture.“It’s such a relaxed space now rather than feeling a little bit more stuffy with the last iteration,” she says.
This time around, creating “wow” moments with lighting and design details was just as important. She crafted a cohesive lighting design that was dim and sexy without being overly cavernous, replacing the bar pendants with Italian handblown glass pendants embracing pleated shades and adding a dramatic backlit, mahogany-trimmed antique mirror wall.“My goal was to deliver perfection, elevate the space, bring it into a new season of Palm Beach and create a new buzz.”
Clockwise from left: A blue Cristallo bar, Marilyn Monroe welcomes customers, one of 12 Baccarat chandeliers
ROSENBERG DIAMONDS & CO. DESIGNER: JL Homes and Interdecor
At the end of a long week in July 2023, David Rosenberg was getting ready to celebrate his wedding anniversary when a torrential deluge of water erupted from above, flooding his diamond boutique. A malfunctioning cooling tower was the culprit. After 20 years of curating his store from the ground up, he watched the water swiftly wash it away in minutes.
Forced back to square one, Rosenberg threw himself into a nonpareil, multimillion-dollar renovation in collaboration with JL Homes and his brother’s design company, Interdecor. On a sourcing trip to France, Rosenberg drew inspiration from its chateaux, especially the lighting fixtures. He fell in love with each Baccarat chandelier he discovered, and he decided to outfit his boutique with 12 of them. The store’s elegant Old World design is further complemented by stunning vaulted ceilings and 22-carat gold leaf embellishments fit for royalty.
Upon entering the store, customers are greeted by a glowing, backlit Cristallo quartzite reception desk adorned with a Bert Stern photograph of Marilyn Monroe, taken just weeks before her untimely death in 1962. Down the hall, herringbone porcelain flooring with gold inlay leads to a blue Cristallo bar with stylish mitered edges, showcasing Rosenberg’s extensive collection of premium spirits and delicate Baccarat Champagne flutes. This versatile space, located across from the vault—the only item that survived the flood—also includes a Miele-equipped kitchen with marble countertops.
To formally welcome his son, Jonathan, into the business, Rosenberg built him a private office across from his wife, Jamie’s, office, relocating the sales checkout desks. Both offices are mirror images, with slightly different details. Each features dark eucalyptus built-ins and large wood desks with leather inlay and brass monogrammed logos. For a delicate touch, Jamie’s built-in includes antique mirrors and a custom dog bowl and toy area for Whiskey, the family’s dog. In his office, Rosenberg opted for a backlit, double-waterfall effect using Macauba quartzite in a leather finish.
The showroom’s gold display cases, glittering with precious gems, sit beneath a vaulted ceiling design inspired by one Rosenberg admired in Milan.“This is a piece of art,” he exclaims as he peers up. He spared no expense with the bathroom, which showcases three phantom Baccarat chandeliers floating over the illuminated Cristallo bathroom vanity and sculptured sink, a state-of-the-art Toto toilet and striking art by Colombian artist Santiago Parra.
“Diamonds run through my veins,” says the diamantaire beloved by the ultra-wealthy for meticulously selecting his rare and brilliant stones.“I’m still enamored and excited to come to work every day.”
LOOKS THAT LAST
These designer-approved sources deliver elegance with endurance.
PHILLIP JEFFRIES FOR WALLPAPER: phillipjeffires.com
KRAVET FOR HOME FURNISHINGS: kravet.com
ARTISTIC FRAME FOR HOSPITALITY-FOCUSED FURNITURE: artisticframe.com
TILEBAR FOR MARBLE, TERRACOTTA, PORCELAIN AND MORE: tilebar.com
VAULT LIGHT & VISUAL COMFORT FOR LIGHTING: vault-light.com and visualcomfort.com
SCHUMACHER FOR RESIDENTIAL FABRICS: schumacher.com
Top, Rosenberg’s elegant showroom with vaulted ceilings and 22-carat gold leaf. Bottom: Whiskey’s feeding station.
THE SEAGATE DESIGNER: Erika Dray, Watts & Dray
For more than a decade, The Seagate in Delray Beach welcomed visitors and locals alike into its coastal-inspired lobby, but it was time for a refresh. New York-based design studio Watts & Dray was tapped to spearhead the 260,000-square-foot, 157-room renovation. Co-founders Erika Dray and Vanessa Watts reimagined the hotel with a relaxed elegance that honored its Colonial Revival architecture through a contemporary lens. The design features understated, luxurious elements and materials in a calm palette of blues, creams and warm woods, punctuated by Dutch detailing.
“The goal of the space was to make it feel like an incredibly composed and well-appointed residence by the sea,”Dray says. To that end, she highlighted art and accessories to make the hotel feel personalized and the space to feel collected. Some guest rooms feature gallery walls with as many as 19 works of art, along with bookshelves brimming with real monographs of fashion, art, history and travel.
To evoke a more residential style, the designers focused on creating inviting moments of familiarity as guests interacted with materials, balancing comfortable, laid-back textiles and durability through a labor-intensive process of sourcing, treating and customizing fabrics. They used limewash paint throughout the public spaces, allowing the walls to fade and patina naturally, while introducing performance fabrics in leather, cotton, recycled polyester and linen.
The property’s multimillion-dollar renovation also included a two-story beach club redesign by Saguez & Dash, featuring a stun-
ning cocktail bar and terrace, a seaside dining room and a restored pool deck, alongside its restyled 18-hole golf club by architect J. Drew Rogers. The project also welcomed a new culinary partner, renowned chef Michael Mina, whose celebrated Bourbon Steak— his first outpost in Palm Beach—boasts swanky interiors by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio.
Top: In the guest rooms, Erika Dray leaned into the hotel’s AngloCaribbean architecture, with Dutch influences, to create bedrooms furnished with headboards resembling Dutch clock gables and textiles drawn from traditional Dutch patterns.
Left: “The goal of the space was to make it feel like an incredibly composed and wellappointed residence by the sea,” says designer Erika Dray.
GABRIELLA’S MODERN ITALIAN
DESIGNED BY: Vincent Celano, Celano Design Studio Co.
Twinkling lights and a glowing bar entice guests into Gabriella’s Modern Italian. An effervescent energy complements its glamorous design, setting the tone for a festive night out in Delray Beach. Vincent Celano, who also designed Akira Back and the shuttered Lionfish, has collaborated with Gabriella’s owner, Frank Brusco, on five of his restaurant concepts and was tasked with designing an elegant, modern Italian space with a timeless sensibility that encourages fun, socializing and a sense of community.
Brusco’s passion for curating immersive activations for his guests—like the grand central bar, impressive wine cellar display, and tableside cart service—inspired Celano and his team as they shaped the layout, textures, lighting and flow.“It’s a theater experience,” he says.“When you’re designing for a show, you have to know the story.” For Gabriella’s, the goal was a gathering space where guests can feel comfortable, be part of the fun, awaken all their senses, and leave with a memorable experience.
Perched on a stool of golden-yellow leather with brass accents, guests under the restaurant’s olive tree bar have clear sightlines to all the dining areas, from the spacious outdoor patio to the formal chandeliered wine room, enhancing its see-and-be-seen vibe. This circular centerpiece fosters a natural flow, allowing guests to float in and out of spaces organically. The design nods to a Tuscan landscape—walnut wood, antique mirror branches and a hunter-green lacquered wood ceiling—but interprets it in a sleek, modern style.
Celano played with scale, pattern and materials to create a calm, organic design that feels residential and classic. Soft touches—richblue upholstered chairs, mustard-yellow banquettes and the jade green tufted bar wall that doubles as an acoustic feature—team with contrasting pops of color. He designed a lighting story using reflective materials like brass and polished Italian marble to create a warm sunset glow in the room. The result is a restaurant that feels approachable yet elevated, where guests can dress up while still feeling comfortable.
Being mindful that a restaurant endures higher levels of wear and tear than a home, Celano and the team at IBO Construction Group used commercial-grade materials like engineered wood floors and stain-resistant—or, as he quips,“bulletproof”—upholstery.“Manufacturers are delivering at a higher level,” he explains.“So, we can be really playful with the palette, (because) we know it will be durable.”
At the same time, he emphasizes that his team worked to stay true to the materials, so the design didn’t feel overly manufactured. Leather must be leather, and stone needs to be stone, with an understanding that some wear and tear is inevitable, contributing to the space’s lived-in, comfortable vibe. Gabriella’s team maintains this elegance by polishing the metal and wiping down fingerprints. “Frank encourages his team to go that extra mile,” Celano says. “It’s like when you have people come to your house, you’re going to tidy up a bit. Well, Frank tidies up every night, because he knows his friends are coming.”
NOAH LAVIN
Left: Guests sit on goldenyellow leather stools beneath an olive tree bar Below: “There’s a classic Italian story layered in but presented in a modern, whimsical way,” Celano explains.
CARINA MASK
We craft more than interiors—we curate legacies. Each residence is a masterfully designed sanctuary, where elegance, intention, and individuality converge. Impeccably tailored to reflect your unique identity, our spaces are expressions of timeless luxury—where every detail is considered, and every moment is elevated.
THIS IS NOT JUST DESIGN. THIS IS THE EMBODIMENT OF REFINED LIVING.
TAKE A SEAT
Commercial spaces are embracing residential comfort with sculptural sectionals, tactile upholstery and statement armchairs that invite guests to linger.
Sculptural pendants, show-stopping chandeliers and unique table lamps all shape the mood, creating atmosphere and turning spaces into transportive experiences.
4. Peabody Table Lamp - $109-$129, West Elm, West Palm Beach, westelm.com. 5. Currey & Company Polyhedron 1-Light Flush Mounted Sconce - $490, Perigold, West Palm Beach, perigold.com.
6. Snowball Pendant Lamp - $4,495, Design Within Reach, West Palm Beach, designwithinreach.com.
7. Fatboy Bellboy Wireless Rechargeable Table Lamp - $179, West Elm, West Palm Beach, westelm.com. 8. Ghiaccio Round Chandelier - $5,900, Arhaus, Boca Raton, arhaus.com.
THE BUSINESS OF FUN
Accessories become storytelling tools. From collectible board games and artful books to record players and bar carts stocked with your favorite spirits, these details add personality and make spaces
1. L’Oeil Study - $175 each, Jayson Home, jaysonhome.com
2. Vintage Bookshelf Board Games - $47 each, Hive, Palm Beach, hivepalmbeach.com. 3. Orbit Rug by Jenna Krypell - Art + Loom, Miami, artandloom.com. 4. Kenwood Bar Cart - $1,295, Williams Sonoma, Boca Raton, williams-sonoma.com. 5. Clase Azul Reposado Tequila - $160, Total Wine & More, Boca Raton, totalwine.com.
Enjoy a refreshing assortment of classical and contemporary works at BBT’s Spring Voyage. This mixed repertory concert will offer something for everyone to enjoy as we explore different genres of dance.
La Bayadère
August 2 & 3, 2026
Set in the Royal India of the past, La Bayadère, follows a tragic love triangle between temple dancer Nikiya, warrior Solor, and the Rajah’s daughter Gamzatti.
Boca Raton Museum of Art 561-392-2500 info@bocamuseum.org
Boca Raton Historical Society & The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum 561-395-6766 office@bocahistory.org
Florida Atlantic University College of Arts & Letters 561-297-3810 theatre@fau.edu
Florida Intergenerational Orchestra of America (561) 922-3134 info@flioa.org
Festival of the Arts Boca 561-571-5270 info@festivalboca.org
The HARID Conservatory 561-997-2677 info@harid.edu
Lynn University 561-237-9000 tickets@lynn.edu
Mizner Park Amphitheater 561-393-7984 MiznerAmp@myboca.us
Sugar Sand Park 561-347-3900 sugarsandpark@myboca.us
The Studio at Mizner Park 954-910-5826 info@thestudioatmiznerpark.org
The SYMPHONIA 561-376-3848 info@thesymphonia.org
The Wick Theatre & Costume Museum 561-995-2333 boxoffice@theWick.org
Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County 561-281-8600 yomail@yopbc.org
Photo by Sharon
BACKSTAGE PASS
Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Beatles on the Beach
WHEN: March 12-15
WHERE: Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton
COST: $39.50-$248 for two-day passes
CONTACT: beatlesonthebeach.com
Morgan Freeman
The blues and the Beatles come together, with an Academy Award winner at the helm
Written by JOHN THOMASON
Even the voice of God occasionally gets the blues.
Morgan Freeman—yes, that Morgan Freeman, Oscar and Golden Globe winner, 80-time nominee of national and international awards, and a towering presence on screens large and small—can now add “concert producer” to his list of eclectic accolades. Many were surprised this past winter when the actor’s touring production, Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience, was announced as the Saturday night headliner of Beatles on the Beach, the four-day festival making its Boca Raton debut March 12 to 15 at Mizner Park Amphitheater and surrounding venues.
At first blush, the booking seems unusual for a festival whose previous headliners have included veteran rockers such as Cheap Trick, Micky Dolenz and Edgar Winter. But the 88-year-old Freeman, who is expected to attend and speak at the March 14 performance, is no neophyte on the concert scene. Since 2001, he’s been the owner of Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Miss., an authentic blues joint housed in a former cotton warehouse. The club has helped revitalize the Mississippi Delta city, which has reclaimed its status as one of the nation’s blues capitals.
The core band members performing in Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience, including guitarist Anthony “Big A” Sherrod and drummer Lee Williams, perform regularly at Ground Zero, and they bring the same fiery chops to the touring production. Enhanced with a live regional symphony orchestra, the selections span 100 years of the blues, from pioneers like Robert Johnson and Son House to later interpreters such as JJ Cale and Raphael Saadiq. Freeman appears on a giant projection screen to introduce the songs alongside cinema-quality visuals.
As to whether the band plans to integrate Beatles material at the namesake festival, its music director, Eric Meier, played coy with Boca magazine: “We’re not going to disclose any secrets at this time. Let’s just say the request has been lobbied, and we will take it under consideration.”
What drew you to the blues, and how did it become such an important part of your life?
I wasn’t involved with the blues prior to my erstwhile deceased partner [Bill Luckett] and I deciding to start a blues club. Because one day, there were a couple of obvious backpackers on the streets in Clarksdale, and Bill went out to ask them,“is there something I can help you with?” And they said,“where can we hear some blues?” He couldn’t tell them. There was no place. That
was my intro to getting involved with the blues. We built Ground Zero, and time went on, and here we are.
Since the festival is called Beatles on the Beach, do you see a connection or throughline between the blues and the Beatles?
There’s a connection between the blues and just about any genre of music. There was a saying that came from Muddy Waters: “The blues had a baby, and they called it rock ‘n’ roll.”
Eric Clapton is a bluesman. Why is he a bluesman? Because that basic music underpins American music. So we call the blues America’s classical music.
You appeared in a 2014 documentary called “Lennon or McCartney,” about the decades-long debate over the two geniuses. Whom did you choose?
I met McCartney; I hung out with him for a while, because I worked with his daughter Stella on a photo shoot. I never met Lennon, but Lennon had some deep lyrics, and he stands out in my pantheon.
What music do you listen to when you’re on a movie set? I don’t turn on music at all. If I have a computer, I’ll get into solitaire; that’s my addiction. Sometimes, I’ll have a reading assignment; that’s really what they are. My wife says,“you’ve got to read. Get your head out of the computer. Stop playing solitaire. Pick up a book.” So I’m liable to be doing that.
I understand you’ve developed a great relationship with Clint Eastwood. Why do you think you two have grown so close?
We have a lot of the same interests. We go well together. The juice is easy. It started from the beginning, when we did “Unforgiven.” The way I got the job was he called and said, would I like to ride along with him? He’s my favorite director [to work with]. I say that all the time so that when he comes up with something, he can squeeze me into it. I’m buttering him up.
Morgan Freeman
March 2026
Now-March 15:
“Dorothy Gillespie: Color in Motion” at Cornell Art Museum, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach; free, with donations welcomed; 561/654-2220, delrayoldschoolsquare.com/ cornell. Most known for her enamel-covered aluminum sculptures that suggest a sense of motion, this late artist created motley assemblages that resemble ribbons and double helixes, starbursts and fireworks and confetti—optically cofounding metal sculptures that appear as crinkly as paper.
March 8:
Patti LuPone: “Matters of the Heart” at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 7 p.m.; $100-$200; 561/757-4762, festivalboca. org. A Broadway icon whose 40 years on the stage include such roles as Mama Rose in “Gypsy,” Nellie Lovett in “Sweeney Todd” and the title character in “Evita,” LuPone has won three Tonys and two Grammys. Her cabaret-style shows include charismatic performances from her oeuvre, featuring the best of Sondheim, Bernstein and more.
Now-April 4:
“The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau” at Society of the Four Arts, 102 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach; $10; 561/6557226, fourarts.org. Inspired by beauty, mythology and nature—in particular the sinuous curves of the local flora—Art Nouveau caught fire in Western Europe between 1890 and 1910. This major touring exhibition gathers 120 of the style’s most distinctive pieces for a comprehensive assessment of its legacy, from paintings, sculptures and ceramics to furniture, books, lamps and glassware.
March 9:
March 6:
“A Rhapsodic Evening with Conrad Tao” at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 7:30 p.m.; $60-$150; 561/757-4762, festivalboca.org. This piano prodigy made his Festival of the Arts Boca debut at age 13. Now 31, Tao has emerged as a giant of contemporary classical piano, tackling masters from Mozart to Shostakovich. In this appearance, Tao will perform George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” a cultural milestone of concert music that has taken the measure of many a pianist.
March 11:
Wishbone Ash at Funky Biscuit, 303 S.E. Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton; 7 p.m.; $55.25-$71.26; 561/395-2929, funkybiscuit. com. Melodic and intricate, with flourishes of psych-rock and heavy metal, progressive rockers Wishbone Ash helped pioneer a muscular style of twin lead guitars across such influential ‘70s albums as “Pilgrimage” and “Argus.” In this special appearance, the band will perform the latter album, which spawned the hits “The King Will Come” and “Blowin’ Free,” in its entirety.
Ron Pope at Funky Biscuit, 303 S.E. Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton; 7 p.m.; $44.50-$60.42; 561/395-2929, funkybiscuit. com. In 2007, this Nashville singer-songwriter had an unexpected viral hit with “A Drop in the Ocean,” which garnered more than 1 billion listens in the early streaming era. He has released a staggering 25 albums and EPs since then, combining country, blues, folk and rock; his latest is 2025’s “American Man, American Music.”
Patti LuPone
Tiffany lamp from “The Triumph of Nature”
Tabletop sculpture from Dorothy Gillespie Ron Pope
RAHAV SEGEV/PHOTOPASS.COM
March 6-15:
“Damaged Furniture” at Willow Theatre, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton; various show times; $45; 561/347-3948, willowtheatre.org. Boca Stage returns to its roots with this offbeat dark comedy, a critical darling when it debuted in Los Angeles in 2018. It’s set in Brooklyn, where an L.A. man returns to his family home to salvage his suddenly deceased uncle’s furniture business. As the extended family gathers, their myriad dysfunctions rise to the surface.
March 7:
Time For Three at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 7:30 p.m.; $60-$150; 561/7574762, festivalboca.org. Recording for the legendary Deutsche Grammophon label, this Grammy-winning trio of two violins and a double bass collapses distinctions between classical and popular music, combining formal rigor and academic chops with indie-folk melodies and poignant vocals. This marks Time for Three’s third Festival of the Arts appearance.
March 7:
The Naked Magicians at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 7:30 p.m.; $40.25-$115; 561/8327469, kravis.org. Penn & Teller meets Chippendales in this adult-friendly import from Australia, in which two buff magicians combine comedy and illusions, gradually shedding their clothes until only their top hats remain.
March 7-22:
“Dear Jack, Dear Louise” at Levis JCC Sandler Center, 21050 95th Ave. S., Boca Raton; various show times; $35-$45; 561/558-2520, levisjcc.org. In Ken Ludwig’s 2020 play, Army Captain Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, strikes up an epistolary relationship with Louise Rabiner, a New York City theatre ingénue. As they fall in love during WWII, the circumstances of the U.S. military’s involvement in the conflict threaten to derail their courtship before they even meet.
March 11:
Alonzo King LINES Ballet at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 7:30 p.m.; $40.26-$97.76; 561/8327469, kravis.org. Alonzo King, a Kennedy Center Master of Choreography who has been leading his eponymous contemporary dance company since 1982, presents his ode to the spiritual-jazz harpist, pianist and pioneer Alice Coltrane, integrating selections from four of her albums. The program also includes “Mother Goose,” King’s tribute to Maurice Ravel.
March 12:
“Dirty Dancing LIVE In Concert” at Amphitheatre at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach; 6 p.m.; $32.39-$133.12; dirtydancinginconcert. com. In this unique fusion of film and performing arts, a live band and a talented group of “dirty” dancers will perform in front of a digitally remastered screening of the movie. The live entertainers will continue the fun with a post-movie concert in which audience interaction is encouraged.
March 13-15:
Emo Philips at Boca Black Box, 8221 Glades Road, Suite 10, Boca Raton; 7:30 p.m.; $28; 561/483-9036, bocablackbox.com. A fey, childlike savant with a gender-bending bob haircut, this “comedian’s comedian” delivers brilliant one-liners in a meandering falsetto voice that must be heard to be believed. His specialty is the paraprosdokian—a ten-dollar word that essentially means a joke that begins heading in one direction and winds up somewhere totally different.
March 14:
Hugh Panaro at the Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 7:30 p.m.; $31.70-$92.60; 954/9105826, thestudioatmiznerpark.com. Broadway star Panaro has played the title role in “The Phantom of the Opera” more than 2,000 times. See him “unmasked” at this intimate cabaret performance, likely to include hits from his lengthy New York resume, including “Les Misérables,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Sweeney Todd” and other staples of musical drama.
Alonzo King LINES Ballet
“Dirty Dancing LIVE” Emo Philips
Hugh Panaro SZDENKOHANOUT
GUY VIAU
March 2026
March 15:
An Evening With Alex Edelman at Olympic Heights Performing Arts Theater, 20101 Lyons Road, Boca Raton; 6 p.m.; $75-$200; 561/558-2520, levisjcc.org. Compared to early Jerry Seinfeld for his ability to find profundity in minutiae, this narrative-driven Jewish American comedian has penned three conceptual evenings of humor and storytelling addressing subjects ranging from life as a millennial to his startling embed in a meeting of neo-Nazis in New York.
March 19:
“Inheriting the Revolution: The Modern Legacy of 1776” at Lifelong Learning Auditorium at FAU, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton; 4 p.m.; $25; 561/2974784, fauevents.com. In recognition of the U.S.A.’s sesquicentennial, Lindsay M. Chervinsky, presidential historian and the author of “Making the Presidency: John Adams and the Precedents that Forged the Republic,” will share insights into the country’s inception and the shrewd insights of the Founding Fathers.
March 24:
Paul Galbraith at Flagler Museum, 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach; 7:30 p.m.; $95; 561/655-2833, flaglermuseum.us. Performing on a unique eight-string guitar he developed in 1993, this internationally renowned musician plays his instrument seated, like a cellist; he earned a Grammy nomination for his singular take on Bach’s complete solo violin sonatas and partitas. At the Flagler, he’ll perform bespoke arrangements of works by John Dowland, Bach, Haydn, Ravel and Isaac Albeniz.
March 25-Oct. 11:
“Exploring Jess: Beat Generation Visionary” at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; $12-$16 museum admission; 561/392-2500, bocamuseum.org. A staple of San Francisco’s Mission District in the 1950s and beyond, single-named painter Jess is one of the more underrated artists to emerge out of the 1950s Beat Generation, creating maximalist work that integrated concepts of alchemy, chemistry, the occult, literature and popular culture.
March 19:
Caroline Rhea at Boca Black Box, 8221 Glades Road, Suite 10, Boca Raton; 8 p.m.; $43.50$63.50; 561/483-9036, bocablackbox.com. Best known for her six seasons as aunt to the title character on “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” Canadian comedian Rhea is now a series regular on “Hollywood Squares” and “Match Game.” She has been performing standup across North America for 40 years, honing an observational style of story-driven humor that’s heavy on physicality.
March 27-28:
Walter Trout at Funky Biscuit, 303 S.E. Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton; 7 p.m. Friday, 8 p.m. Saturday; $40-$60; 561/3952929, funkybiscuit.com. In his nearly six-decade career, this indefatigable blues guitarist has performed with Canned Heat, Percy Mayfield and John Mayall. His latest release, 2025’s “Sign of the Times,” finds the veteran tunesmith taking stock of the zeitgeist on tracks such as “Artificial,” “Struggle to Believe” and the title song.
“Exploring Jess: Beat Generation Visionary”
Lindsay M. Chervinsky: “Inherting the Revolution” The Beach Boys
March 20-21:
Kevin Farley at Boca Black Box, 8221 Glades Road, Suite 10, Boca Raton; 7:30 p.m. Fri., 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Sat.; $33.50; 561/483-9036, bocablackbox.com. Kevin Farley followed his late brother Chris into comedy, and his lengthy C.V. includes “Tommy Boy,” “The Waterboy,” “The Straight Story” and “Joe Dirt.” But he’s as active on the road as he is on our screens. As a standup, Farley has cultivated a conversational, observational and topical deadpan wit that addresses celebrity, culture and the news.
March 20-21:
The Bronx Wanderers at the Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 7:30 p.m. Fri., 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Sat.; $44.50-$62.75; 954/910-5826, thestudioatmiznerpark.com. This father-and-sons family act has been entertaining audiences, and winning awards, from its Las Vegas residency since 2016. The Four Seasons-style vocal performances feature music-industry anecdotes and tunes from Dion, Billy Joel, Tony Orlando and others.
March 28:
The Beach Boys at Glazer Hall, 70 Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach; 3:30 and 7:30 p.m.; $200-$230; 561/576-7860, glazerhall. org. Founding Beach Boy Mike Love still leads the foundational surf-pop pioneers through and beyond its Brian Wilson-centered golden era, leading longtime member Bruce Johnston and a band of younger devotees through such defining cuts as “Wouldn’t it Be Nice,” “Good Vibrations,” “Barbara Ann” and “Surfin’ USA.”
March 21:
Bywater Call at Funky Biscuit, 303 S.E. Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton; 8 p.m.; $44.50$60.42; 561/395-2929, funkybiscuit.com. Grounded by Meghan Parnell’s gritty and charismatic vocals, this septet from Toronto sounds like it could have been bred in Memphis or Muscle Shoals, as drums, bass, keyboards, saxophone and a scorching electric guitar hybridize soul, jazz and roots rock to form the band’s textured sonic gumbo.
March 21-22:
Lynn Philharmonia at Wold Performing Arts Center at Lynn University, 3601 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday; $35-$50; 561/2379000, lynn.edu. In the fourth program of the acclaimed Philharmonia’s season, outgoing conservatory dean Jon Robertson will conduct Wagner’s Prelude to Act 1 from “Die Meistersinger,” Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 5 in C Minor,” with piano soloist Roberta Rust.
March 29:
Yakov Smirnoff at the Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 6:30 p.m.; $43.90-$68.25; 954/9105826, thestudioatmiznerpark.com. This Ukrainianborn American comedian and actor was a household name in the Cold War ‘80s, thawing tensions with his culture-clashing mirth and ultimately performing for four presidents. He has since reinvented his act, performing clean, relatable comedy at his occasional residency in Branson and beyond.
March 29:
Brit Floyd: “The Moon, the Wall and Beyond” at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 7 p.m.; $78-$352; 561/3937890, myboca.us/2021/ mizner-park-amphitheater. One of the world’s preeminent Pink Floyd interpreters, London’s Brit Floyd returns with another immersive concert of exactingly performed Floyd compositions. The band will focus on “Dark Side of the Moon” and “The Wall,” supplemented by laser lights and tailored video projections.
March 30:
Renée Fleming at Glazer Hall, 70 Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach; 7:30 p.m.; $395-$500; 561/5767860, glazerhall.org. The golden-voiced soprano will perform an eclectic selection of music from classical, romantic and contemporary eras, from soaring arias to modern pop. Guests are asked to don formal attire in a nod to a previous tradition at this reimagined venue: the Royal Poinciana Playhouse’s “Black Tie Mondays.”
Brit Floyd
Bywater Call
Renee Fleming Kevin Farley
ERIN COSENTINO
MARVIN JOSEPH
Palm Beach Dramaworks –Theatre to Think About
THE CRUCIBLE
By Arthur Miller
Directed by William Hayes
April 3-19, 2026
A masterful, riveting exploration of the 1692 Salem witch trials, this timeless and timely Tony Award-winning play is also an allegory for McCarthyism and the House Un-American Activities Committee’s modern-day witch hunts. Convinced that witches are living among them, Salem is gripped by mass hysteria, paranoia, fear, and retribution, with neighbors turning on and turning in neighbors, and religious fervor turning a blind eye to justice. Miller considered The Crucible his finest play.
“I visited the Miller Archive to see his research and discover anything I could about his work on The Crucible,” said PBD Producing Artistic Director William Hayes. “He had such conviction about writing the play, and I could see first-hand his determination and how much he struggled to get it right: I’ve never seen so many composition books and drafts of one piece. Miller was one of the greatest playwrights in American history, and being at the archive, touching these sacred documents, felt like a religious experience.”
“It’s
the awful waste that strikes you most powerfully: how easily a society wrecks itself once gripped by paranoia.”
— Financial Times (London)
Arthur Miller Archive at the Harry Ransom Center
Julie Kleiner, Elisabeth Yancey, and Karen Stephens Jason Nuttle Photography
Liliana Aranguren, DDS, MDSC
Periodontics & Dental Implant Surgery
South Florida Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry (SFCPID)
3020 N. Military Trail, Ste. 200 Boca Raton, FL 33431
561-912-9993
Flsmile.com
When Liliana Aranguren came to the United States from Venezuela, she was not only seeking the American dream, but she was also on a trajectory to make a difference in the world of dentistry.
Dr. Aranguren graduated with highest honors from University of Zulia. She practiced dentistry in Venezuela and completed a twoyear University of Connecticut Residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry. She was their first general dentistry resident to be accepted into the U Conn three-year residency in the Periodontics specialty program and obtained a research-focused master’s degree in dental science.
Dr. Aranguren joined SFCPID in 2016; was Board Certified in Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery in 2017 and named an equity partner in 2023. During this journey, she also became an ecstatic new mom.
Dr. Aranguren is focused on saving teeth being lost to periodontal (gum) disease. When they are either already missing or too damaged, her focus is on predictably replacing them with comfortable, esthetic dental implants. She is licensed to provide IV and conscious sedation, performs minimally invasive tissue (gum) grafting, laser-assisted periodontal treatment, immediate load implant dentistry (TeethToday®), accelerated orthodontics and esthetic enhancement, as well as routine procedures.
“Compassionate care is of utmost importance. I build relationships with patients based on trust, communication, and education. I guide them through every procedure. Patients are amazed how we can erase decades of dental problems in such a short and seamless process,” she says. “Just call the office directly for an appointment; no referral needed.”
From passions turned into thriving passions, to creative outlets and corporate callings, these women in business make a living doing what matters most to them. Get to know these successful pros—their expertise might become your next new resource!
Best of women in BUSINESS 2026
Janet Allenby, DO PRESIDENT / OWNER
ALLENBY COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY
Dr. Janet Allenby has devoted more than three decades to elevating the field of cosmetic dermatology, guiding patients toward refined, confident versions of themselves. Internationally recognized for her expertise, Dr. Allenby seamlessly blends artistry, science and innovation to deliver elegant, natural-looking results from head to toe.
At her thoughtfully designed practice, Allenby Cosmetic Dermatology, Dr. Allenby leads an all-female team whose passion, professionalism and intuitive understanding of women’s needs define the patient experience. Every detail—from consultation to treatment— is rooted in personalized care, discretion and a commitment to excellence.
“Every woman has concerns, regardless of age, and each deserves thoughtful attention,” says Dr. Allenby. “Our philosophy is to guide patients toward the most effective, meaningful solutions—helping them achieve beautiful results while honoring their individual goals and investing wisely. When a patient feels uplifted by what she sees in the mirror, that confidence radiates outward. The connection between appearance and well-being is both powerful and supported by science.”
A defining element of Dr. Allenby’s practice is her focus on women navigating hormonal changes. Through advanced technologies and specialized treatments, she helps patients restore comfort, confidence and vitality, often reclaiming aspects of life they believed were no longer possible. “Our goal is simple yet profound,” Dr. Allenby explains. “To help women feel whole, empowered and beautiful at every stage of life.”
561.806.1739
Elizabeth Bennett
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®)
INTERCOASTAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Elizabeth Bennett believes that financial success begins with knowledge and involvement. As a professional woman who has a thriving female client base, she offers advice from a personal perspective and knowledge garnered from her 35 years of expertise.
Bennett notes that frequently women are more financially conservative than men. “This pattern is a perk when working as a team on your finances. However, our conservative nature may lead to inefficient growth decisions in the long-term. Effective solutions include diversification for growth and forming a lower risk account to offset instability. These intentional options are key to feeling financially confident,” says Bennett.
“For many women, it’s a comfort to have a financial advisor with shared life experiences and understanding,” says Bennett. “Women offer an empathetic environment, ready to listen and care through any financial circumstances. We understand the challenges of running a home, partners, children, work, and saving for the future. As excellent delegators, a trusted female financial advisor is a valuable partner in financial management and forward progression.”
Women often ask their advisor if it is legal for them to keep their finances totally separate from their spouse, and understand that a variety of life circumstances may arise.
“Your spouse might be fiscally irresponsible, treading a different retirement path, or differ dramatically from your financial language. Often, previous experiences with money can make financial goals in a relationship totally different. It makes sense, in many cases, for a woman to keep her funds as her own,” Bennett concludes.
561.210.7339
Jill
Merjeski, MS, CPPS
FOUNDER AND CEO
JILL’S NEXT DOOR DOG WALKING & PET SERVICES, LLC
According to Pew Research Center, 97% of American pet owners consider their pets to be members of their family. It’s this vast majority to which Jill Merjeski tailors her myriad services.
A former college advisor, Merjeski started Jill’s Next Door Dog Walking & Pet Services in 2017 to better align with her longtime commitment to animal welfare—she has fostered some 330 felines, in addition to her two permanent rescue cats—and to step fully into her strengths as a team leader and entrepreneur. “I saw a real need for a pet care company that was professional, trustworthy and truly heartdriven,” she says. “Starting Jill’s Next Door allowed me to bring all of that together— my love for animals, my passion for service, and my natural leadership style.”
For Merjeski, these elements combine into a 29-time award-winning business that offers not only the fundamentals of pet service, such as dog walking and pet sitting, but a host of concierge options befitting both pets and their owners. These include the Pet Taxi (transporting fur babies to and from veterinary appointments), pet bathing, power walking, litter box cleaning, house checks, supply shopping, pharmacy pickups and home vacuuming.
“Our add-on concierge services came from listening to what our clients needed beyond traditional pet care,” she says. “And for the pets, it means less stress—whether it’s a safe ride to the groomer or a clean, fresh environment to come home to.”
With an illustrious career spanning more than 38 years in real estate development, marketing and sales, Melissa K. Green has established herself as a driving force in the industry. Her passion, strategic insight and unwavering tenacity are the linchpins of her success, enabling her to navigate the complex, multiyear life cycles inherent to real estate development and deliver consistent results across market conditions.
As an EVP/CMO, she has collaborated with both private and public developers overseeing all aspects of complex portfolios in the New York, Los Angeles and Florida markets. Most recently, further enhancing her impressive resume, Melissa was appointed as OceanLand’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer.
“I’m thrilled to join OceanLand’s esteemed team and enthusiastically share Jean Francois Roy’s vision for Sixth & Rio’s waterfront and Parkside property. It is truly a once-in-alifetime opportunity,” she shares.
OceanLand’s expansive and growing portfolio comprises luxury waterfront development sites throughout South Florida, including the highly anticipated Sixth & Rio waterfront project uniquely positioned at the apex of Las Olas Boulevard and the coveted Rio Vista neighborhood. In her role, Melissa will lead the team advising on all aspects of strategic development, planning, design, marketing strategy and sales management, ensuring OceanLand’s projects achieve maximum value and impact.
“As an expert in new construction sales and marketing, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with extraordinary developers throughout my career. These experiences have shaped my perspective, strengthened my expertise, and reinforced my belief that successful development requires patience, discipline and innovative vision. … It’s truly a marathon, not a sprint,” says Melissa.
954.900.3600 sixthandrio.com
MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Svitlana Koval, DMD, MSc, BDS
DR. KOVAL ORTHODONTICS
AHigh Honors DMD graduate of Boston University’s Goldman School of Dental Medicine with an orthodontic specialty degree, followed by a master’s degree, Dr. Svitlana Koval has applied her in-depth knowledge to become an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of sleep disordered breathing in children and adults worldwide. She also serves as an opinion leader for T-scan digital occlusal analysis applications in orthodontics.
“Through comprehensive examinations utilizing the latest technology and sophisticated, in-house treatment planning software, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, airway- and TMJ-oriented treatments,” Dr. Koval says. Her practice treats patients as young as 3 and a half, all the way through adulthood.
Dr. Koval is a highly accomplished researcher in her field and has helped author the Handbook of Research on T-Scan Technology Applications in Dental Medicine, among a portfolio of 21 research articles and full-text publications. Additionally, she innovated her own patent-pending MARPEFACE protocol that helps maintain nasal septum position while manipulating the bones of the facial skeleton with the purpose of breathing improvement and aesthetic outcomes in children and adults.
Dr. Koval utilizes many cutting-edge tools and techniques in her practice, including the T-Scan for orthodontic applications, conebeam computer tomography of the head and neck, shape memory aligners and non-surgical mandibular advancement, creating ideal facial lines and proportions with significant breathing improvement. With 16 years of worldclass expertise and innovation, combined with her gentle touch and compassionate demeanor, Dr. Koval is helping to make life-changing physical and aesthetic differences in the lives of her patients.
954.751.4724
Drssk.com
@drsvitlanakoval
Kandice Freedman, M.Ed, Ed.D
PROFESSIONAL PRIVATE TUTOR + ADVOCATE
EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATION ADVOCATE
As a public high school teacher and special-needs educator, Kandice Freedman gained daily insights into the breadth of services students required to be successful both in and out of the classroom.
A self-proclaimed vivacious, whimsical cheerleader for her students, Freedman has a knack for connecting with teens, understanding the challenges they face and the many opportunities that exist to improve their educational success. She serves as a dedicated liaison between the parent, student and the school for children in need of special services ranging from academics to behavioral issues, 504 plans, IEP meetings and tutoring.
“With a master’s degree in special education and a doctorate in education, I decided to go rogue in 2015, and for the last decade have dedicated my professional life to serving the needs of students as a private tutor, educational advocate and college advisor. For high school students, I tutor all classes, especially those that tend to keep students nervously up all night, like chemistry and calculus. I offer SAT and ACT prep, and guidance navigating the intricacies of the college admission process. I deliver a vast array of services garnered from my time spent in public schools, with a personalized, one-onone approach that is difference-making to my clients. I work as an advocate for all students and work with students in person or virtually, depending on their preference”.
“My past students still contact me to share their success stories years later. That is what makes my work so meaningful,” Freedman says.
561.866.8909 ESEAdvocate.com @kfreedZ44
MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike, DSW
FRANCHISE OWNER
BLUSHINGTON BOCA RATON
Being the first of anything is never easy. But Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike has brought a frontier spirit to the challenge of operating the first franchise location of Blushington, right here in Boca Raton.
“Preparing to open the first Blushington franchise has been both exciting and deeply purposeful,” Diaz Meaike says. “Being the first means setting a strong foundation—not just for this location, but for the future of the brand’s expansion. I’ve had the opportunity to thoughtfully shape the experience, culture, and standards of this location, ensuring it reflects both Blushington’s core values and my own commitment to exceptional service, hospitality and community engagement.”
From its 2011 origins in West Hollywood, California, the beauty brand has expanded nationwide, achieving a loyal following as a one-stop shop for blowouts, makeup and skin care under one roof. Diaz Meaike, whose background is in real estate, first fell in love with the brand as a client, and has extended her passion for its services into her new management role. “Blushington makes luxury beauty feel effortless, welcoming and consistent. The brand has always been about enhancing who you are, not changing you, and that philosophy continues to resonate deeply with me.”
With some 130 Blushington franchises planned to open by the end of the 2028, the brand is emerging as a major player in the $648 billion beauty industry. And with pioneers like Diaz Meaike inspiring the next franchisees, its future is in good hands. 561.246.5645
Marjorie Waldo, M.Ed.
PRESIDENT & CEO
ARTS GARAGE
Arts Garage opened 15 years ago in downtown Delray Beach as a New York–style jazz club with cabaret seating, presenting musical acts and theatre productions.
When Marjorie Waldo took the leadership reins in October 2016, she inherited an organization in need of a financial turnaround. A former University of Virginia theatre major, educator and business consultant with a deep love for the arts, she stepped in to safeguard a cultural home the community couldn’t afford to lose.
“We were on the verge of closing our doors, and today Arts Garage is a powerhouse of arts and culture,” Waldo says. “We’re a multidisciplinary venue presenting visual art exhibitions, open mic nights, opportunities for emerging artists, and live music every week, including jazz, Latin jazz and blues, along with high-quality tribute shows. We’re also showcasing non-traditional theatre and expanding access through our family series.”
Arts Garage’s Kimmel Family Series, sponsored by the Virginia and Harvey Kimmel Family Fund, recently enabled 500 children from local underserved schools to attend a performance at no cost. The organization also offers artist talks, adult education and senior movement classes.
Marjorie gratefully acknowledges the nearly 100 volunteers who contribute about 10,000 hours each year. “We are truly transforming lives through the experiences we offer,” she adds, noting an estimated $4 million in annual economic impact. “Local businesses benefit, too, with more than 60% of our patrons dining downtown before or after a show.” “It’s all about community,” Waldo reflects. “I’ve lived in Delray since 1999, and this place means the world to me.”
561.450.6357
Deanna Christy FOUNDER
SALTWATER COWGIRL CO.
Afree spirit with a myriad of passions, Deanna Christy loves surfing the waves as much as galloping on horseback; always wild at heart and dressed for the part.
Deanna discovered her love of western wear vibes as a child frolicking in her prized first pair of cowboy boots. Reminiscing about her youth and thinking back on how each boot tells a story, she realized that she could do the same with hats, putting her heart and soul into each one.
She founded Saltwater Cowgirl Co. in March 2025 and launched with her first event at The Boca Raton in August. After doing her due diligence to find authentic cattleman crown cowboy hats, she discovered a family-owned company out of Garland, Texas that made Wrangler cowboy hats for 20 years.
Deanna started doing small one-off custom designs for friends, then launched her brand full-on at private events featuring a pop-up hat bar, and a website for online purchases.
“It’s such an exciting niche here in South Florida, and my clients love that they can get a quality, custom-designed hat that is stitched, embroidered and branded to their unique style,” explains Deanna.
“From weddings to birthday celebrations, corporate events to golf tournaments, we bring the whole experience to the venue, where our designers create the perfect hat on-site with touches that resonate with each guest’s fashion sense. They leave with their new hats, feeling as amazing wearing them as I did in my first pair of boots,” she assures.
Kelly Yoch MANAGER
ALTIER JEWELERS
When it opened more than 65 years ago, Altier Jewelers, Boca Raton’s first local jewelry store, featured a woman partnering with her husband behind the counter. For the past 20 years, men have managed the shop. In late 2024, the third-generation Altier family brought a refreshed female energy back to the store, hiring Kelly Yoch as its manager. A fixture in the luxury watch scene of greater New York for more than 25 years, Yoch one day decided she’d experienced her last Northeast winter. She found a management job at the Boca institution waiting for her—just as Altier had purchased a building across from its current location, where it will expand its offerings by the fourth quarter of this year.
“The most shocking thing for our clients is that they’ve walked in and seen a woman,” Yoch says. “The female touch I’ve given to the sales floor has made a bit of a difference. Women shoppers feel a little more comfortable.”
Arriving from the ultra-high-end New York market, Yoch considers it a “joy” to manage a store that casts a wider economic net here in Boca. “We take care of basically everyone in our community,” she says. While Altier carries luxury watches from Patek Philippe, Cartier and Montblanc, “nothing is too small. A repair, a watch battery or a $200,000 diamond— everyone is treated the same way.” And at Altier, clients are more than customers. “They become part of the family,” she says. “This isn’t a 9-to-5 job. I always have my communication lines open to service our clients in every way they need.”
MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Carla Hull ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER
BOCA GROVE
When someone discovers Boca Grove, either as a Club member or a leader behind the scenes, they tend to stay around for long haul. Carla Hull is no exception. Boca Grove’s assistant general manager has served a variety of roles across more than 20 years. “I bring a broad operational perspective and a deep understanding of our culture, which allows me to help bridge departments, anticipate challenges, and maintain the exceptional member experience that defines our Club,” she says.
Named for the honeybell grove trees that once lined its fairways, the 44-year-old Club has come to epitomize luxury living in Boca Raton, from its no-two-homes-alike requirement to its first-rate golf and racquet sport facilities. Its 18-hole Jim Fazio-designed championship golf course conveniently eschews tee time requirements for members, a major perk of limiting its communities to fewer than 450 families.
“Being a smaller, more intimate club allows us to build genuine relationships with our members and their families, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach,” Hull says. “At Boca Grove, members don’t just belong to a club; they feel known, valued, and at home.”
Hull looks forward to a fruitful 2026 and 2027 at Boca Grove, as her team institutes a comprehensive master planning process to enhance myriad areas of the club’s campus. “It’s an exciting time for the Club, as these proposed renovations are designed to support connection, wellness and an exceptional member experience for years to come, while remaining true to our culture and values,” Hull says.
561.487.5300
Sadeya Ali CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
BLACK DIAMOND CLAIMS SOLUTIONS
When a home or business is suddenly upended by fire, property damage or natural disaster, what follows is often a maze of paperwork, uncertainty and high-stakes decisions—made under stress, with insurers on one side and overwhelmed property owners on the other.
That’s where Black Diamond Claims Solutions steps in, acting as a steady intermediary between policyholders and insurance companies, bringing clarity to a notoriously complex process. Founded 13 years ago and led by veteran insurance adjuster Sadeya Ali, the firm was built on firsthand insight into how daunting claims can be for consumers. Since then, Black Diamond has guided more than 15,000 homeowners and businesses through claims with an efficient, transparent, consumer-first model.
From expediting relocation and coordinating furniture moves to preparing documentation and assembling trusted contractors, Black Diamond handles the details that slow progress. Water mitigation, mold remediation, roofing, packing and storage are all managed through a vetted network designed to keep timelines moving and stress levels low. Believing peace of mind shouldn’t begin only after disaster strikes, Black Diamond’s leadership saw an opportunity to serve homeowners more proactively. Enter Omnio Home Concierge—a premium home warranty membership designed to keep homes running smoothly before an emergency occurs.
“Our chairman, Salt Weekley, recognized we could extend that same reassurance beyond the claims process,” says Ali. “Omnio brings concierge-level care to everyday homeownership—blending proactive maintenance, comprehensive coverage and trusted professional support.” In moments of crisis—and in between—Black Diamond and Omnio offer the confidence of knowing you’re not navigating it alone.
private education camp guide 2026
The following section presents helpful information provided by prominent private schools and camps in Palm Beach County.
All listings include a brief synopsis of the programs’ achievements, curriculum highlights, and many more important details families look for when choosing the best fit for their children.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you make informed decisions at a glance.
Enroll your student in day camp or sleep away camp for the summer. Summer sessions are comprised of three-week sessions. Sessions begin June 1
• Specialty programs: sports, arts, cooking, etc.
• Daily activities: boating, fishing, archery, swimming and more
Advent School Boca is a Christian school dedicated to raising children from Kindergarten through 8th grade with strong character while providing the academic excellence needed to succeed in today’s rapidly changing world. Rooted in faith and guided by purpose, we are committed to developing confident, capable, Christian leaders who are prepared for success both inside and outside the classroom. For over 50 years, Advent School Boca has proudly welcomed families from Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Deerfield, and surrounding communities, offering a nurturing environment where faith, learning, and leadership grow together.
300 E. Yamato Road, Boca Raton • 561-395-3631 • adventschoolboca.org
Attack Performance Academy (APA) is a nonprofit sports organization dedicated to empowering youth through elite volleyball, basketball, and fitness training. APA provides high-quality coaching, mentorship, and athletic development in a supportive, community-driven environment. Our programs focus on skill development, functional movement, confidence-building, and long-term athlete growth—on and off the court. We proudly offer year-round training, ensuring athletes have consistent access to structured programs regardless of season or background. Through donations and community support, APA is committed to making high-level training accessible to all and building a foundation for lifelong success.
Address varies for training locations • 561.334.4249 • attackperformanceacademy.org
Private Education & Summer Camp Guide
BOCA ICE RINK
Camp ages: 6 - 12
Students: 50-75
Camp Rate: $495 Weekly / $119 Daily - incl. Lunch
Counselor/Camper Ratio: 1:7
Boca Ice offers exciting summer camps that keep kids active, engaged, and having fun on the ice. Our camps feature a mix of ice skating, hockey instruction, games, and supervised off-ice activities in a safe and energetic environment. Designed for ages 6-12, and a variety of skill levels, our programs focus on building confidence, teamwork, and fundamental skills while having fun. Boca Ice field trips provide schools, camps, and groups with a unique on-ice experience, making them a perfect option for educational outings, end-of-year celebrations, or summer fun. Skate, Play, Party at Boca Ice!
Immerse your child in the world of art with the Boca Raton Museum of Art School’s Summer Sessions. Week-long classes inspire students to explore new mediums and techniques under the guidance of our award-winning instructors. Classes are grouped by age and theme, with flexible morning and afternoon schedules available to fit your summer plans. Sign up for a single session or combine them for a full day of artistic discovery.
W. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton • 561.392.2503 • bocamuseum.org/art-school
FLORIDA SWIM SCHOOL
Ages: 3 months to adult Tuition Range: $116-$348 per month
Student-Teacher Ratio: 3:1 (1x-3x per week)
Let us guide you through your journey of learning to swim. Florida Swim School advocates water safety through education to save lives and reduce drownings. Our Team uses a nurturing method that builds confidence in water. We are Passionate. We are a Team. We are Kind. We Are Professional. Learning to swim is a necessity, not a luxury. Join our Summer Camp located at Boca Prep International School ages 5-12. More information on our website.
Raton • 561-288-3817
DONNA KLEIN JEWISH ACADEMY
Grades: K - 12th Tuition Range: $30,940 - $35,060
Students: 780 Student-Teacher Ratio: 7:1
Denomination: Jewish
Donna Klein Jewish Academy (DKJA) is proud to be ranked among the top Jewish schools in the nation, offering a premier K-12 college preparatory education rooted in academic excellence. Through a rigorous, individualized curriculum, DKJA meets the needs of a diverse student body while fostering personal growth and academic excellence. Students engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from JV and Varsity sports to an extensive fine arts program that includes music, dance, drama, and visual arts. DKJA equips its students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in college and beyond.
Grandview Preparatory School is an independent private school grounded in the belief that learning is personal and shaped by relationships. At Grandview, we focus on knowing each student well and designing an experience that honors curiosity, confidence, and character. Through strong academics, flexible learning, and meaningful real world experiences on and off campus, students develop the skills, judgment, and resilience needed to navigate modern life.
Dates: June 8 – July 31 Counselor/Camper Ratio: 1:5
The Levis JCC has been providing children of all ages with unforgettable summers since 1986. Our dedicated, caring team is committed to making the camp experience the best it can be for every child, every summer. Our full-day camp program offers exciting activities, convenient schedules and experienced staff. We provide kids the freedom to learn and grow while developing skills that prepare them for future success. With a culture built on universally accepted moral ideals as well as strong Jewish values, we incorporate respect, honor, good sportsmanship and teamwork into all that we do. Campers from all backgrounds are welcome.
PINE TREE CAMPS AT LYNN UNIVERSITY
Grades: K-9 day camp; 1–8 sleepover camp Tuition Range: $1,750–$3,550
Dates: June 1–July 31 (three-week sessions)
Enroll your child in Pine Tree Camps, offering three-week camp sessions with a hot lunch every day and up to three counselors for supervision. Pine Tree Camps provides campers with a wide variety of activities and specialty programs that focus on an area of interest, including sports, arts, cooking and more. It also provides a sleep away camp Monday–Friday, where campers enjoy campfires, talent shows and field trips. Summer camp runs from June 1–July 31, with day camp beginning at 9 a.m. each morning. Sleep away camp runs from Monday at 8 a.m. through Friday at 3:30 p.m.
PINE CREST SCHOOL BOCA RATON
Grades: PreK - 8 Tuition Range: $39,010 - $45,685
Students: 878 Student-Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Virtual Classes: No Denomination: Independent
At Pine Crest, we cultivate academic excellence and develop future leaders who thrive in an ever-changing world. Our students master adaptability, collaboration and empathy while building deep global and cultural understanding. They learn that perspective is power, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. We graduate confident, compassionate leaders who know their strengths and forge their own paths to success. They emerge ready for both personal fulfillment and professional achievement. Discover how Pine Crest can shape your child’s future.
Private Education & Summer Camp Guide
PINE CREST SCHOOL FORT LAUDERDALE
Grades: PreK - 12th Tuition Range: $39,010 - $49,670
Students: 1,825 Student-Teacher Ratio: 9:1
Virtual Classes: No Denomination: Independent
At Pine Crest, we cultivate academic excellence and develop future leaders who thrive in an ever-changing world. Our students master adaptability, collaboration and empathy while building deep global and cultural understanding. They learn that perspective is power, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. We graduate confident, compassionate leaders who know their strengths and forge their own paths to success. They emerge ready for both personal fulfillment and professional achievement. Discover how Pine Crest can shape your child’s future.
Saint John Paul II Academy, located in Boca Raton, Florida, is a Catholic coeducational college preparatory school in the Diocese of Palm Beach following the tradition of Saint John Baptist De La Salle and the Brothers of the Christian Schools. Saint John Paul II Academy provides a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for success in college and in life. Our faith-based learning community fosters excellence in all programs and enables the spiritual, academic, artistic, and physical development of each student. Dedicated faculty and staff instill the Gospel values of tolerance, concern for the poor, justice, peace, and responsibility while welcoming students of all beliefs and backgrounds.
4001 N. Military Trail • Boca Raton • 561-314-2100 • sjpii.net
SLAM BOCA RATON
Grades: 6th-12th Tuition Range: (admission through application and lottery process) Students: 1,000 Student-Teacher Ratio: 25:1
SLAM Boca Raton delivers an innovative, sports-infused education for students in grades 6–12. An “A”-rated school by the Florida Department of Education, SLAM Boca is STEM-certified, a Cambridge International School, and accredited by Cognia, offering a rigorous academic experience that prepares students for college and careers. Students can participate in AP courses, dual enrollment, and sports-focused majors such as Sports Medicine, Media, and Marketing. As a Project ADAM Heart Safe School, student safety and well-being are a priority. Through partnerships, mentorships, internships, and leadership opportunities, students gain real-world experience. Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 school year. Visit www.slamboca.com, become a Panda, and follow @slambocaofficial on Instagram.
22500 Hammock Street • Boca Raton • 561-299-6969 • slamboca.com
SPACE OF MIND
Grades: K - 12th Tuition Range: $18,000 - $48,000
Students: 50 Student-Teacher Ratio: 3:1
Denomination: Non-denominational
We’re Space of Mind, a personal learning experience for everyone, designed for our modern and social world. We offer a K-12 full-time schoolhouse, afterschool programs, family & adult programs, coaching, college prep & Gap year programs, parent coaching, homeschool curriculum development, and Summer, Winter & Spring Camps. Whether you’re a child, young adult, parent, or educator, our programs are designed to enrich your lifelong learning adventure.
ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL
Grades: PS3-8th Tuition Range: $5,755 - $15,315
Students: 430 Student-Teacher Ratio: Varies
Denomination: Lutheran
Since 1962, St. Paul has been an accredited traditional Christian school in East Boca Raton. We offer leveled reading and math groups, art, music, band, advanced technology, physical education, Spanish, as well as STEM in grades 6-8. Our nurturing Early Childhood Program is developmentally appropriate and offers flexible days and times. After care and summer camp are available. Our Parent Teacher League offers many opportunities for parents to be involved. Contact us for a tour or for more information.
Denomination: Fashion Design and Sewing Tech School
THOS Fashion School of Design offers hands-on, technical fashion education from beginner to advanced levels in an elevated, intimate based learning environment. Our accelerated programs are built to move talent from concept to construction to real world experience. We welcome students from high school through adults of all ages; younger students may be considered based on readiness and commitment. Students develop original designs, refine technical mastery, and debut their work through reputable partnerships and live opportunities. Our mission is simple: to educate with intention, nurture exceptional talent, and prepare students to step confidently into professional fashion careers.
281 N. Federal Hwy, Boca Raton • 561.294.7280 • thosfashionschoolofdesign.com
Camp Dates: Spring Break Mar. 16th - 20th • Summer Break Jun. 1st - Aug. 21st
Waves Surf Academy offers exciting surf camps in Delray Beach and Boynton Beach for kids ages 5-15. Activities include surfing, paddleboarding, boogie boarding, swimming, beach games, dodgeball, and more. All staff are lifeguard certified, background checked, and screened for safety. The camp runs daily M-F from 9 AM to 2:30 PM, with indoor shelter and games for weather days. Join the fun and make waves this summer!
TOO LATE TO REWIND: FROM THE COLLECTION OF ELAYNE MORDES
Through March 29, 2026
Collector Elayne Mordes opens her vault of video art featuring artists who employ concepts of repetition, delay, and hybrid media.
Adad Hannah, The Raft of the Medusa (100 Mile House), Video 1, 2009. Partial Long-Term Loan and Promised Gift from the Mordes Family Collection
EDUARDO CHACON: POSTCARDS FROM NOWHERE
Through May 3, 2026
Fleeting emotions and everyday interactions are captured by South Florida humanist photographer Eduardo Chacon.
Eduardo Chacon, Please Stay [detail], 2022 (printed 2023), archival print. Courtesy of the artist
TYPOE GRAN: ANATOMY OF A PRACTICE
Mar 25 – Oct 11, 2026
Miami-based artist TYPOE GRAN’s first solo museum exhibition showcases his immersive world-building through vibrant site-specific murals, charcoal drawing, sculpture, and lightboxes.
TYPOE GRAN, Eden [detail], 2025, colored pencil on paper. Courtesy of Primary and the Artist
MODERNISMS: ART FROM THE MANES COLLECTION
Mar 25 – Oct 11, 2026
Drawing from Dr. Harvey Manes’ expansive collection, this exhibition explores how 20th-century pioneers broke tradition through innovative figuration and abstraction.
Pablo Picasso, Jacqueline [detail], 1958, crayon on paper. Dr. Harvey Manes Art Foundation
EXPLORING JESS: BEAT GENERATION VISIONARY
Apr 22 – Dec 6, 2026
San Francisco artist, Jess, exemplifies the Beat Generation’s bohemian spirit with his experimental collage, paintings, and drawings.
Jess (Collins), Game’s Up [detail], 1981, jigsaw puzzle. Courtesy of Hosfelt Gallery, San Francisco and Jess Collins Trust. Photograph: Miles Petersen
APRIL 9TH AND 10TH EVENING VINTNER DINNERS Rendezvous. Indulge. Experience.
APRIL 12TH
AFTERNOON GRAND TASTING At
Proceeds benefit Best Foot Forward’s academic success and student support programs for foster and at-risk youth
APRIL 2026 18
6:30 PM l THE BOCA RATON
Event Chair: Danielle Rosse
Honorary Chairs: Tara & Tony Ruberg
Champion of Children Award Recipient: Vertical Bridge
PRESENTING SPONSOR: LVL UP Fitness
STEP AHEAD: Vertical Bridge
LEAPS AND BOUNDS: Burns Family Foundation
FOOTPRINT: Christine E. Lynn, E.M. Lynn Foundation A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors
JUMPING FOR JOY
AvalonBay Communities
Anita Detert
Enterprise Mobility
JM Family Enterprises Mainstreet Capital Partners
Oceans 234 | The Break House
Joan E. Schwartz & Bruce Rubinger
Mari & Ashwin Vasan
For more information, please visit BFFbash.org or contact our office at 561-470-8300
Chocolate mousse cake from Brule Gastro-Kitchen
Brulé Gastro-Kitchen
200 N.E. Second Ave., Delray Beach; 561/274-2046
Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT
For nearly two decades, Brulé has watched Delray Beach evolve from a sleepy beach town into a lively cultural and culinary hub. It’s seen neighboring restaurants come and go. Still, chef-owner
Suzanne Perrotto has steadily remained committed to using locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that are both inventive and comforting, and offering warm hospitality. Perrotto has tweaked all of those ingredients to get her recipe for success just right.
shallots that really make the dish stand out—both for their creaminess and their fun, tangy kick.
The bistro was humming with energy the evening I visited. Brulé doesn’t take reservations, so I always try to arrive early in hopes of securing at least an empty seat at the quaint bar. This time, I hit the jackpot with the last available table. I started with the Shrimp & Maine Lobster Ceviche ($17) and Tostada ($17). The ceviche introduced a bright freshness to my palate, balanced by a spicy kick from the Serrano pepper. I enjoyed the generous seafood bites, which were juicy and tender, with the avocado adding creaminess and the Marcona almonds providing texture. The tostada, although trickier to share because you need to cut and portion it out, was equally as pleasing. The tenderloin pieces sit atop a crunchy tostada draped in melted spicy cheddar, but it’s the avocado crema and pickled
Perrotto excels at crafting comfort dishes that still include a surprising element. For example, sometimes you just want a delicious taco or a juicy burger. That evening, I was craving both. But the tacos weren’t just any regular fish tacos ($19.50). The grouper cheek elevated the dish; blackening it added layers, and the pineapple salsa provided a sweet finish that tied everything together. The burger ($17) also stood out. Its short rib blend was juicy and savory, and instead of the usual toppings, the roasted mushrooms and tarragon aioli inside the perfectly toasted bun gave the dish the boost it needed to hit it out of the park.
Desserts here vary with the seasons, but there’s usually a signature crème brûlée and heavenly macarons. This evening, I tried the Chocolate Mousse Cake ($12). It’s an indulgent dessert of white and dark chocolate mousse and vanilla nougat that reminded me of a flourless chocolate cake and a chocolate mousse bombe combined into one decadent, gooey, round, sweet treat—another surprising take on a dish that left me satisfied and excited to come back again for more delightful curveballs.
CARINA MASK
Clockwise from bottom, shrimp and Maine lobster ceviche, tostadas and Brulé burger
bottom, pappardelle square noodles, fried calamari Diavolo and Carmine steak
Mia Rosebud
150 E. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton; 561/462-3000
Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT
After 50 years of dominating the culinary scene in Chicagoland, restaurateur Alex Dana decided to venture south. Two years ago, Rosebud Restaurants opened its first location outside of Illinois with Mia Rosebud Boca Raton. Since then, it has become a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring a spacious indoor-outdoor bar and terrace that’s prominently visible as you pass by on Palmetto Park Road. It’s consistently lively, encouraging you to stop in for at least a cocktail, if not dinner as well.
Inside, the aesthetic and ambiance reflect its classic Italian menu, with dark wood throughout, dim lighting, cozy burnt-orange banquettes and waiters dressed to the nines. There is also live music on Thursday and Friday, which adds to its convivial vibe.
Tantalizing aromas from the open kitchen welcome us as we settle into our table. The menu is precise, focused on what Mia Rosebud does well: USDA Prime
steaks and Italian specialties, including housemade pastas. I appreciate a menu that doesn’t overwhelm me with choices that don’t even fit its story.
We started with a signature dish, the Fried Calamari Diavolo ($24). The server warned us it was quite spicy, but in my opinion, as long as you avoid the red peppers, the tender and lightly fried calamari deliver a manageable level of heat. However, if you like it very hot, the accompanying fra diavolo sauce that you can pour over the calamari will do the trick.
The restaurant is known for its substantial portions, so come prepared. For first-timers, our server recommended another signature dish, the Rosebud Original Pappardelle Square Noodles ($33), which was indeed a generous serving of pasta. You can add a protein such as meatballs or Italian sausage if you’d like to make it your main course. We chose to enjoy it as a pasta course before the steak. The wide, flat noodles
are tossed in a fresh tomato and basil sauce and come with a small dollop of creamy house-made ricotta. Sometimes you just crave simple, artisanal pasta like this.
The meat is imported from Chicago. We tried The Carmine ($90), a 16-ounce USDA Prime bone-in filet that conveniently arrived presliced. It was perfectly cooked with a pink center and a gorgeous, char-grilled crust. We also tried a side of Velasco steak sauce, a blend of peppers and herbs that added a spicy kick to the meat.
As I tapped my foot along to “The Boys of Summer,” our final course arrived. We had seen desserts zip by throughout the night—massive slices of cake. But when the Coconut Cake ($18) appeared, we were still speechless. The five towering layers of moist yellow vanilla cake are enclosed in coconut cream and topped with shaved coconut. I felt like I was in a tropical dessert paradise and enjoyed its whimsical nod to Palm Beach.
CARINA MASK
FLORIDA TABLE Dining Guide
Palm Beach County BOCA RATON
388 Italian Restaurant By Mr. Sal —3360 N. Federal Highway. Italian. This family-owned outpost of its Long Island flagship prides itself on nostalgic, quintessential dishes. Pastas like alla vodka, marinara and spicy rigatoni share the menu with chicken and veal entrees in beloved preparations like masala, Milanese and parmigiana. Choose from half or whole portions to share with the table. It’s also known for its lively ambiance, so come here for an Italian feast but stay for the party. Dinner nightly. 561/794-3888. $$$
Abe & Louie’s —2200 Glades Road. Steakhouse. All Americans are endowed with certain inalienable rights, among them the right to a thick, juicy, perfectly cooked steak. At this posh, comfortable (and expensive) meatery, the USDA Prime steaks are indeed thick, juicy and perfectly cooked, also massively flavorful and served in enormous portions. Don’t miss the New York sirloin or prime rib, paired in classic steakhouse fashion with buttery hash browns and uber-creamy creamed spinach. Chased with an ice-cold martini or glass of red wine from the truly impressive list, it’s happiness pursued and captured. • Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner nightly. Brunch on Sat. and Sun. 561/447-0024. $$$$
AlleyCat—297 E.Palmetto Park Road. Japanese. Chef Eric Baker’s Japanese izakaya, or a casual spot for drinks and bites, is serving up dishes like sushi, dumplings and fried rice that have an unexpected whimsical element. Here you’ll find king crab tacos and hot fried chicken alongside the hamachi ponzu and spicy scallop roll. And to deliver the freshest sushi in town, he has partnered with celebrated sushi chef David Bouhadana of Sushi by Bou. • Dinner Tues.-Sat. 561/353-5888. $$
DINING KEY
$: Under $17
$$: $18–$35
$$$: $36–$50
$$$$: $50 and up
Arturo’s Restaurant—6750 N. Federal Highway. Italian. After 40 years of feeding our Boca community, the Gismondi family is still going to great lengths to take care of its patrons, who, over the years, have become honorary family members themselves. Arturo’s brings generations of diners together with its warm ambiance, classic and consistent Italian fare, and its award-winning 1,000+-bottle wine cellar. • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Fri., dinner Sat.-Sun. 561/997-7373. $$$
Basilic Vietnamese Grill —200 S. Federal Highway. Vietnamese. This popular restaurant offers satisfying food and reasonable prices. Plus, there’s bubble tea. Opened in 2014, it has a wide range of Vietnamese favorites, such as cha
gio tom heo, fried shrimp and pork Imperial rolls, all kinds of pho, noodle bowls, chicken curry and more. • Lunch and dinner six days a week; closed Tuesdays. 561/409-4964. $$
Bluefin Sushi and Thai—861 N.W. 51st St., Suite 1. Sushi/Thai. Arrive early for a table at this Asian hot spot—it’s popular with no reservations for parties fewer than six. Don’t skip the tempura lobster bomb, big in both size and taste. The ginger snapper will impress both Instagram and your stomach. Try the chicken satay and pad Thai. Bluefin offers a variety of dishes from multiple cultures, all well done. • Dinner daily. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 561/981-8869. $$
Burtons Grill & Bar —5580 N. Military Trail. New American. Known for its reliable food as well as its non-gluten, Paleo and “B Choosy” kids menu, the first Florida location for this restaurant is deservedly crowded, so make reservations. Don’t miss the General Tso’s cauliflower, the pan-seared salmon (Paleo), the crab cakes or the Key lime pie. Popular half-portions are available, too. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/465-2036. $
The Capital Grille —6000 Glades Road. Steaks. This is one of more than three dozen restaurants in a national chain, but the Boca Grille treats you like a regular at your neighborhood restaurant. Steaks, dry-aged if not Prime, are flavorful and cooked with precision, while starters from the pan-fried calamari to the restaurant’s signature spin on the Cobb salad (lunch only) are nicely done too. Parmesan truffle fries are crispy sticks of potato heaven; chocolate-espresso cake a study in shameless, and luscious, decadence. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/368-1077. $$$
Casa D’Angelo —171 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. Chef Rickie Piper, who has mastered the menu and cuisine of this fine-dining staple for more than a decade, knows when to say when with both plating and ingredients. His dishes, including the sides and accompaniments, are visually appetizing and aromatic. A grilled veal chop easily 3 inches thick proved tender and juicy, and the wild mushrooms served alongside in a marsala added earthiness. • Dinner nightly. 561/996-1234. $$$
Casimir French Bistro—416 Via De Palmas, Suite 81. French. Take a trip overseas without leaving the city and enjoy excellently prepared traditional French dishes, such as duck l’orange or beef bourguignon, or go with Cajun chicken and veal Milanese. The comfortable dining room is a Parisian experience, as is the apple tarte tatin. This is a local favorite, and may we add they have what is as close to real French bread as anyplace in Boca?
• Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/955-6001. $$$
Sashimi from AlleyCat
CARLOS JOSE GALLEGO II
Chez Marie French Bistro —5030 Champion Blvd. French. Marie will greet you at the door of this nicely decorated, intimate, classic French restaurant tucked in the corner of a strip shopping area. This feels like an intimate neighborhood bistro and is a welcome discovery. From escargot encased in garlic butter, parsley and breadcrumbs to a tender duck a l’orange to an unforgettable crepe Suzette, you’ll be in Paris all evening. Voila! Also on the menu: pan-seared foie gras, tasty onion soup, coq au vin, rack of lamb, salads and more desserts. French food in an unassuming atmosphere.• Dinner Mon.-Sat. (closed on Mon. in summer) 561/997-0027. $$
Chops Lobster Bar —101 Plaza Real S., Royal Palm Place. Steak, seafood. There is nothing like a classic chophouse every now and then for a special dinner. At this upscale downtown restaurant, steaks are aged USDA Prime— tender, flavorful and perfectly cooked under a 1,700-degree broiler. There’s all manner of fish and shellfish, but you’re here for the lobster, whether giant Nova Scotian tails flash-fried and served with drawn butter or sizable Maine specimens stuffed with lobster. Let’s face it: Trendy menus come and go, but a great steakhouse is a win-win on all occasions. • Dinner nightly. 561/395-2675. $$$$
Corvina Seafood Grill —110 Plaza Real S, Boca Raton. Seafood. The seafood-centric menu incorporates South Florida’s varied Latin and Caribbean culinary influences into it. Peruvian and Honduran ceviches share the menu with Brazilian fish stew. You’ll also find plantain crusted corvina in a Creole curry sauce alongside Jamaican jerk chicken and island spiced pork ribs. With a focus on sourcing local ingredients, the menu spotlights several daily specials so look out for those. Then there’s the indoor/outdoor bar that invites you to come in and stay a while, especially during its daily happy hour. • Dinner & Sunday Brunch. 561/206-0066. $$
CVI.CHE 105 —6000 Glades Road. Peruvian. Classic Peruvian ceviches share the menu with contemporary takes. Chef Juan Chipoco flexes his skills and imagination in both the kitchen and the whimsical space’s design. The menu features tiraditos, causas, sushi rolls and entrées like the lomo saltado and aji de gallina. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/221-0940. $$
Dorsia —5837 N. Federal Highway. Continental. The simple pleasures of the table—good food, personable service, comfortable ambience—are what this modestly stylish restaurant is all about. The menu has a strong Italian bent, evidenced by dishes like a trio of fried zucchini blossoms stuffed with an airy three-cheese mousse, and a cookbook-perfect rendition of veal scaloppine lavished with artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes and a tangy lemon-white wine sauce. • Dinner nightly. 561/961-4156. $$
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood —201 Plaza Real. Steak & Seafood. Eddie V’s is famous for its seafood and premium steaks, but this restaurant has also perfected the art of entertaining with nightly live music and a few tableside surprises. • Dinner nightly. 561/237-0067. $$$$
Farmer’s Table —1901 N. Military Trail. American. In the pantheon of healthy dining, Farmer’s Table is a standout in Boca, one of the first restaurants to elevate natural foods to fine dining. Fresh, natural, sustainable, organic and local is the mantra at this both tasty and health-conscious offering from Mitchell Robbins and Joey Giannuzzi. Menu highlights include flatbreads, slow-braised USDA Choice short rib and the popular Ramen Bowl, with veggies, ramen noodles and shrimp. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/417-5836. $$
Everyday Favorites
For an affordable bite at any time, consider these durable chains and homegrown Boca favorites— where the attire is understated and reservations are rarely necessary.
Biergarten—309 Via De Palmas, #90. German/Pub. Part vaguely German beer garden, part all-American sports bar, this rustic eatery offers menus that channel both, as well as an excellent selection of two-dozen beers on tap and the same number by the bottle. The food is basic and designed to go well with suds, like the giant pretzel with a trio of dipping sauces and the popular “Biergarten burger.” • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/395-7462. $$
Cuban Café —3350 N.W. Boca Raton Blvd., Suite B-30. Cuban. One thing Boca needs more of is coffee windows—and real Cuban restaurants. Part of the charm of South Florida is its melting pot of Latin cultures, and Cuba is the granddaddy of them all. Which is undoubtedly why diners pack this traditional Cuban restaurant for lunch specials that start at $10.95, including slow-roasted pork served with white rice and black beans. Other highlights include the Cuban sandwich, the media noche and (on the dinner menu only) lechón asado. Full bar. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/750-8860. $
Los Olivos Bistro —5030 Champion Blvd. Argentine. The family-owned bistro’s menu honors familial Argentine roots with typical crave-worthy dishes like empanadas and plenty of red meat. Still, it also honors the cuisine’s Spanish and Italian influences with its standout paellas and housemade pasta. • Lunch and dinner Mon.Sat. 561/756-8928. $
Rocco’s Tacos —224 Clematis St. Mexican. Big Time Restaurant Group has crafted a handsome spot that dishes Mexican favorites, as well as upscale variations on the theme and more than 425 tequilas. Tacos feature housemade tortillas and a variety of proteins. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/650-1001. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 5250 Town Center Circle, Boca Raton, 561/416-2131; 110 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, 561/808-1100; 5090 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, 561/623-0127) $
The Sandwich Shop at Buccan—350 S. County Road, Palm Beach and 1901 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. Takeout stop. Like big sister Buccan Italian restaurant, the Sandwich Shop is full of flavor and builds your favorite sandwich with just a touch of delicious creativity you won’t find elsewhere. Owned by celeb chef Clay Conley and partners, the menu has hot or cold sandwiches, salads, sides and drinks (both alcoholic and non). Good-sized portions mean the Italian and prosciutto subs include leftovers if you have some willpower.• Lunch daily. 561/833-6295. $$
Tap 42 —5050 Town Center Circle, Suite 247. Gastropub. This hugely popular nouveau-Industrial gastropub is not for the faint of eardrums when packed, but don’t let that discourage you. The kitchen here executes the hell out of a short, simple all-day menu. Grilled salmon chopped salad with tomatillo ranch dressing is delightful, as is guacamole studded with fat chunks of bacon and charred corn. Same goes for decadent shrimp mac-n-cheese. The wicked-good chocolate bread pudding with salted caramel sauce would be the envy of any Big Easy eatery. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Brunch Sat.-Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/235-5819. $
Tropical Smokehouse —3815 S. Dixie Highway. Barbecue. When you take the distinct tastes of Florida/Caribbean/Cuban dishes and pair them with barbecue, you end up with a place you visit a lot. Local celeb chef Rick Mace smokes the meats himself, and his recipes include all kinds of citrus in tasty spots (sour orange wings, pineapple carrot cake); you’ll discover new favorite flavors. Don’t miss the BBQ pulled pork, brisket and ribs. Try the hot and sweet hushpuppies or the homemade chorizo queso in this very casual spot that we can happily say is also unique—there’s nothing else like it. • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/323-2573. $$
Gary Rack’s Farmhouse Kitchen —399
S.E. Mizner Blvd. American. Natural, seasonal, sustainable. You’ll enjoy the varied menu, and won’t believe it’s made without butters or creams. Try the too-good-to-be-true buffalo-style cauliflower appetizer, the seared salmon or buffalo burger, and
have apple skillet for dessert. Healthy never tasted so good. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/826-2625. $$
Gallaghers Steakhouse —2006 N.W. Executive Center Circle. Steakhouse. At this chophouse, the staff is
laser-focused on service, the bar pours stiff drinks, and the kitchen dishes out perfectly cooked steaks—a pure embodiment of what you’d expect from a steakhouse. While Gallaghers proved itself a master of its craft, don’t overlook the other items on the menu, like the stuffed shrimp and veal chop. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/559-5800. $$$$
The Grille On Congress —5101 Congress Ave. American. Dishes at this longtime favorite range from tasty chicken entrees and main-plate salads to seafood options like Asian-glazed salmon or pan-seared yellowtail snapper. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sat. 561/912-9800. $$
Houston’s —1900 N.W. Executive Center Circle. Contemporary American. Convenient location, stylish ambience and impeccable service are hallmarks of this local outpost of the Hillstone restaurant chain. There are plenty of reasons why this is one of the most popular business lunch spots in all of Boca, including menu items like Cajun trout, the mammoth salad offerings and the tasty baby back ribs. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/998-0550. $$$
Il Mulino New York Boca Raton —451 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. From the four pre-menu bites to the after-dinner coffee from freshly ground beans, this is a white-tablecloth venue that delivers on its upscale promises. Try the langostino, the red snapper, the risotto, the pasta, or go for the ceviches, caviars and seafood tower. Save room for dessert and complimentary lemoncello. Make a night of it. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/338-8606. $$$
Josephine’s —5751 N. Federal Highway. Italian. Tradition trumps trendy, and comfort outweighs chic at this Boca favorite. The ambience is quiet and stately but not stuffy, and the menu is full of hearty dishes to soothe the savage appetite, like three-cheese eggplant rollatini and chicken scarpariello. • Dinner nightly. 561/988-0668. $$
Kapow Noodle Bar —402 Plaza Real. Asian. Kapow delivers an effervescent ambiance that makes you want to relax and stay a while. Its varied menu has something for every craving, from crispy rice and tacos to rolls and even Peking duck. Up your dinner game by reserving a seat at the separate omakase bar serving chef-curated bites that aren’t on the regular menu. And if you’re looking for a memorable night out, book one of the three karaoke rooms.• Lunch and dinner daily. 561/567-8828. $
Own the Room
With a private dining experience from Kasumi, guests can enjoy a six-course meal with two chef proprietors, a master sushi chef and a bartender entirely at their service.
Kasumi —999 E. Camino Real. Japanese. As the Waterstone Resort & Marina’s second waterfront restaurant, this modern Japanese eatery delivers an elevated level of cuisine. Its shareable menu features sushi rolls, nigiri, sashimi and a variety of larger entrées. • Dinner nightly. 561/226-3033. $$$
Ke’e Grill —17940 N. Military Trail, Suite 700. Traditional American. In this busy dining scene for more than 30 years, you will find a lot of seafood (fried calamari, blue crab cakes, yellowtail snapper Francaise and lots more), a few steak, chicken, lamb and pork options, and a quality house-made apple crisp. Your traditional choices are baked, fried, breaded, grilled, broiled, sauteed. With Provencal, Francaise, maple mustard glaze, toasted macadamia nut pesto and piccata twists. A consistent crowd for a consistent menu. • Dinner nightly. 561/995-5044. $$$
Kousine Peruvian Asian—1668 N. Federal Highway. Peruvian/Asian. Chef and owner Danny Kou shares his Peruvian heritage with a curated menu of dishes that accurately represent his country’s famous ceviche while introducing patrons to unique dishes that are just as tempting. Kousine’s space is bright and modern, with exposed industrial ceilings complemented with warm woods and greenery. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/430-3337. $$
La Condesa —3320 Airport Road. Mexican. Mexico’s bold, colorful and lively culture is reflected in its cuisine, and it’s evident at La Condesa. This family-owned restaurant’s take on Mexican fare offers a sizable menu with a wide selection of popular drinks and dishes like margaritas, nachos, street tacos and burritos. You can also opt for less mainstream dishes like the mole cazuelitas, and you won’t be disappointed. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/931-4008. $
La Nouvelle Maison—55 E. Palmetto Park Road. French. A dining experience at a French restaurant is never just about satiating your hunger. It’s about the entire experience, and La Nouvelle Maison embraces that joie de vivre from the moment you step inside. Whether you delight in the garlic-infused escargots, steak tartare or beef Bourgogne, none of the classic French dishes disappoint here.• Dinner nightly. 561/338-3003. $$$$
La Terraza Tapas & Bar —21170 St. Andrews Blvd. Spanish. La Terraza Tapas & Bar instantly transports you to Spain. Its brick barrel ceiling, moody lighting, crimson walls and wooden furniture create a charming, rustic aesthetic reminiscent of a Spanish taverna. Start with the Tabla Terraza charcuterie board before enjoying a few warm tapas, like the croquetas de jamon, camarones ajillo and octopus. • Lunch and dinner Wed.Sun., dinner Mon.-Tues. 561/576-3040. $$
La Villetta —4351 N. Federal Highway. Italian. This is a well-edited version of a traditional Italian menu, complete with homemade pastas and other classic dishes. Try the signature whole yellowtail snapper encrusted in sea salt; it’s de-boned right at tableside. Shrimp diavolo is perfectly scrumptious. • Dinner nightly. (closed Mon. during summer). 561/362-8403. $$$
Louie Bossi’s —100 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. This jumping joint serves terrific Neapolitan pizza (thin crust), but don’t miss the other entrées. Start with a charcuterie/cheese plate and grab the amazing breadsticks. All breads and pastas are made on the premises. Other faves include the carbonara and the calamari, and save room for house-made gelato. Unusual features: Try the bocce ball court included with the retro Italian décor. • Lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. 561/336-6699. $$$
Luff’s Fish House—390 E. Palmetto Park Road. Seafood. A renovated 1920s bungalow houses this shipshape restaurant, in addition to two large, outdoor deck and patio areas. It’s known for familiar dish names with new tweaks: smoked fish-hummus dip, falafel fish fritters, crab guacamole, mussels in coconut curry broth, plus the paella on Sundays only. Don’t leave without the enormous slice of the Key lime pie, topped with meringue on a graham cracker crust. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/609-2660. $$
Maggiano’s —21090 St. Andrews Blvd. Italian. Do as the Italians do, and order family-style: Sit back and watch the endless amounts of gorgeous foods grace your table. In this manner, you receive two appetizers, a salad, two pastas, two entrées and two desserts. The menu also includes lighter takes on staples like chicken parm, fettuccine alfredo and chicken piccata. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/361-8244. $$
Mario’s Osteria —1400 Glades Road, Suite 210. Italian. This popular spot features rustic Italian fare in a sleek environment. Signature dishes like the garlic rolls, lasagna and eggplant “pancakes” are on the new menu, as are butternut squash ravioli and thick, juicy rib-eye served “arrabiata” style. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/239-7000. $$
Matteo’s —233 S. Federal Highway, Suite 108. Italian. Hearty Italian and Italian-American food, served in giant “family style” portions, needs no reinventing. Though there is no shortage of local restaurants cooking in that genre, it’s the details of preparation and
Breaded blue crab cake from Ke’e Grill
service that make Matteo’s stand out. Baked clams are a good place to start, as is the reliable chopped salad. Linguini frutti di mare is one of the best in town. • Dinner nightly. 561/392-0773. $$$
Max’s Grille —404 Plaza Real. Contemporary American Since 1991, this modern American bistro in Mizner Park has been a true local classic. The food and decor are both timeless and up to date, and the ambience is that of a smooth-running big-city bistro. Service is personable and proficient. The menu is composed of dishes you really want to eat, from the applewood bacon-wrapped meatloaf to the wickedly indulgent crème brûlèe pie. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Brunch Sat–Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/368-0080. $$
Meat Market — 2000 NW 19th St. Steakhouse. Meat Market has infused Midtown Boca Raton with glamour. Its posh interiors and high energy complement its diverse menu that revolves around steak but is also sprinkled with daily specials and sushi that shouldn’t be overlooked. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/245-6777. $$$$
Medi Terra —301 Via de Palmas #99. Mediterranean. Embracing western Mediterranean cuisine, the menu is seasonal and revolves around what the owners can freshly source, so make sure to wait for the specials before making any final decisions. The father-son duo bought Ristorante Sapori in Royal Palm Place and redesigned it to reflect their passion for Mediterranean cuisine. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/367-9779. $$
Morton’s The Steakhouse—5050 Town Center Circle, Suite 219. Steakhouse. There’s seemingly no end to diners’ love of huge slabs of high-quality aged beef, nor to the carnivores who pack the clubby-swanky dining room of this meatery. While the star of
the beef show is the giant bone-in filet mignon, seasonally featured is the American Wagyu New York strip. Finish off your meal with one of the decadent desserts.• Dinner nightly. 561/392-7724. $$$$
Motek —5377 Town Center Road. Mediterranean. Located in Midtown Boca’s Restaurant Row, this family-owned restaurant is known for its Mediterranean and Israeli-inspired menu. A variety of hummus, latkes and labneh za’atar share the menu with classics like the lamb shawarma, beef kebab and salmon skewers. Lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. 561/922-3319. $$$
Narbona —5250 Town Center Circle. Uruguayan. This restaurant-market hybrid offers house-made pasta, private-label herbs and honey, fresh fish and meats, grab-and-go prepared items, and countless Narbona Wine Lodge wines. You can also opt for a sit-down lunch or dinner at its central restaurant or at one of its two bars. The menu, with Italian and Spanish influences, features its pasta alongside a selection of meat and fish dishes. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/692-3933. $$
New York Prime—2350 N.W. Executive Center Drive. Steakhouse. This wildly popular Boca meatery Monday, Monday packs them in with swift, professional service, classy supper club ambience and an extensive wine list. And, of course, the beef—all USDA Prime, cooked to tender and juicy lusciousness over ferocious heat. The bone-in rib-eye is especially succulent, but don’t neglect the New York strip or steak-house classics like oysters Rockefeller, garlicky spinach and crusty hash browns. • Dinner nightly. 561/998-3881. $$$$
Patio Tapas & Beer —205 S.E. First Ave. Spanish. Be transported to the Iberian Peninsula with a variety of tapas.
Chef Bryant Fajardo, who trained under celebrated chef José Andrés, specializes in one of Spain’s most traditional and iconic cuisines and delivers both classic selections like Manchego cheese and anchovies alongside premium nibbles like seared duck and foie gras. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/419-7239. $
Prezzo —5560 N. Military Trail. Italian. A reincarnation of a popular 1990s Boca venue, this version has updated the dining room, kept the yummy oven-baked focaccia bread slices, and added a 21st-century taste to the menu. Don’t miss the tender bone-in pork chop, thin-crust pizza and seafood specials. Vegetarian and gluten-free choices are on the menu, too. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/314-6840. $$
Rafina—6877 S.W. 18th St. Greek. If you find the ambience of most Greek restaurants to be like a frat party with flaming cheese and ouzo, this contemporary, casually elegant spot will be welcome relief. Food and decor favor refinement over rusticity, even in such hearty and ubiquitous dishes as pastitsio and spanakopita. Standout dishes include the moussaka, the creamy and mildly citrusy avgolemono soup and the precisely grilled, simply adorned (with olive oil, lemon and capers) branzino. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/409-3673. $$
Red Pine Restaurant & Lounge —1 Town Center Road. Chinese. The menu is designed to be enjoyed family-style, with substantial portions of classic dishes like house-made vegetable eggrolls, fried rice and General Tso’s chicken, to name a few. The space is bright and lively, with floorto-ceiling windows, an expansive bar, and several dining spaces accentuated with crimson banquettes. • Dinner Tues-Sun. 561/826-7595. $$
ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE
Mia Rosebud shines as Boca Raton’s most preeminent Italian Steakhouse. Lauded for its USDA Prime cuts, quintessential Chicago-style Italian classics, and locally caught seafood, this South Florida outpost of the 50-yearold, family-owned Rosebud Group offers one of the longest happy hours— and best steakhouse burgers in town.
150 E PALMETTO PARK RD, BOCA RATON, FL 561-462-3000 | MIAROSEBUD.COM
Sip, Sip, Hooray!
National Cocktail Day is this month, so we sat down with master bartender Gregory Genias, AKA BootlegGreg, to chat about spirits, bar essentials and how you can level up your cocktail-making at home.
Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT
From a young age, Gregory Genias knew how to treat his runny nose or disinfect a cut by foraging for the right herbs near his home in Jamaica. He also grew up watching his dad, a local bootlegger, distill moonshine. As an adult, Genias turned his admiration for nature and his knowledge of plants into a thriving business that develops beverage programs for restaurants and bars, with a special focus on local, fresh ingredients. And as a nod to his dad, a coworker once called him Bootleg Greg. The nickname stuck.
Genias has worked with global brands like Marriott and Holland America, and he’s developed bar programs for concepts in Texas and the Bahamas. But these days, he’s hyper-focused on supporting local brands here in Florida, his new hometown, where he’s been since 2015.“Name brand doesn’t mean quality,” he says.“We want to support our local brands because they’re right in our hometown and they care about what they’re doing.”
Genias is also a strong supporter of local farms and reminds us that there’s plenty of fresh produce just west of I-95. When discussing the ingredients used in cocktails, he believes nature has done most of the work.“You can’t make an orange juice flavor that tastes better than fresh orange juice,” he says.“So I try to capture those ingredients in their purest form, balance them and combine them into a final product that lets them speak for themselves. If you do it right, you should get a superior product.”
A few industry tips he offers to improve your cocktail-making skills include familiarizing yourself with each spirit’s flavor profile and studying the bottle’s label to learn where it’s from, its ABV and more. Once you get more comfortable with each spirit, you can level up by making your own syrups and customizing drinks for each season, like turning a classic margarita into a watermelon-flavored treat this summer. bootleggregcocktail.com
FAVORITE COCKTAILS
Mai Tai: “It combines different ingredients, but when it’s made well and comes together, it’s the absolute perfect cocktail.”
Fun Fact: The garnish is essential. The half lime represents an island, and the umbrella evokes a beach, so “it’s the official harbinger to a beach vacation.”
Vesper:“A true martini is made with gin and vermouth. This take is made with gin and vodka. A martini made only with vodka is called a kicker.”
Fun Fact: This modern classic was created for the first James Bond novel, “Casino Royale,” by author Ian Fleming.
HOME BAR ESSENTIALS
Hand juicer: “Nothing beats freshly squeezed citrus juice.”
Metal beaker: “Novices should avoid glass.”
Simple syrup: “Please don’t buy it. It’s simply equal parts sugar and water.”
Bitters: Start with Angostura bitters.“It’s the salt and pepper of the bar.”
Just like chefs have spices in the kitchen, the bar has bitters in different flavors that really balance everything together.”
Quality spirits: Vodka, gin, whiskey (bourbon or rye), rum (aged and unaged), tequila, vermouth (white and sweet).
• Add the white rum, Munyon’s, lime juice and orgeat into shaker with crushed ice and shake lightly (about 3 seconds)
• Strain into a double rocks glass over fresh ice
• Float the dark rum over the top and garnish
Gregory Genias
Rino’s of Boca—39 S.E. First Ave. Italian. Guests can expect nightly live entertainment that pairs perfectly with its Italian-American dishes like rigatoni vodka, bucatini carbonara, veal parmigiana and chicken marsala.• Dinner nightly. 561/244-8282. $$$
Seasons 52 —2300 Executive Center Drive. Contemporary American. The food—seasonal ingredients, simply and healthfully prepared, accompanied by interesting wines—is firstrate, from salmon roasted on a cedar plank to desserts served in oversized shot glasses. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/998-9952. (Other Palm Beach County location: 11611 Ellison Wilson Road, Palm Beach Gardens, 561/625-5852.) $$
SeaSpray Inlet Grill —999 E. Camino Real. American. Unobstructed views of Lake Boca Raton, soaring palm trees and coastal décor peppered with fringed umbrellas all set the mood for a relaxing experience that will make you feel as if you’re on vacation. The menu accommodates different dietary preferences with gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Don’t sleep on the pear tortellini pasta starter; it’s a star item. Portions are hearty and can be easily shared. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/226-3022. $$
Six Tables a Restaurant—112 N.E. Second St., Boca Raton. American. The dimly lit chandeliers, burgundy velvet curtains and smooth Sinatra lyrics set the mood for a memorable evening that’s dedicated to fine dining without pretention. With a seasonal menu that’s ever changing, you can rest assured that whatever husband and wife chef-proprietors Tom and Jenny Finn prepare for you, it will truly be special and made with love. • Dinner Thurs.-Sat. 561/347-6260. $$$$
Stage —5377 Town Center Road. International. Located in Midtown Boca’s lively Restaurant Row, Stage offers a globally inspired menu with options for everyone, including many gluten-free and vegan choices. Award-winning chef Pushkar Marathe’s commitment to supporting local farms is clearly reflected here. Be sure not to miss the lychee ceviche and Niman Ranch churrasco. • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/409-2376. $$
Taverna Kyma —6298 N. Federal Highway. Greek/ Mediterranean . Hankering for a traditional Greek meal, and a menu that offers just about everything? This is where you want to try the meze plates (cold, hot, seafood, veggie), saganaki, grilled entrees and kebobs. From the taramosalata to the branzino and pastitsio, servings are generous and good. Don’t forget dessert. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner nightly 561/994-2828. $$
Trattoria Romana —499 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. This local mainstay does Italian classics and its own lengthy list of ambitious specials with unusual skill and aplomb. The service is at a level not always seen in local restaurants. Pay attention to the daily specials, especially if they include impeccably done langostini oreganata and the restaurant’s signature jumbo shrimp saltimbocca. • Dinner nightly. 561/393-6715. $$$
Twenty Twenty Grille —141 Via Naranjas, Suite 45. Contemporary American. You’ve probably licked postage stamps that are larger than Ron and Rhonda Weisheit’s tiny jewel box of a restaurant, but what it lacks in space it more than makes up for in charm, sophistication and imaginative,
Buzz Bite I
The Luck of the Irish
St.Patrick’s Day is on March 17, with local celebrations happening the weekend before. But no matter when you honor Ireland’s patron saint, do it with a pint of Guinness at one of our local Irish pubs. Irishmen: 1745 N.W. Second Ave., Boca Raton
Tim Finnegans: 2885 S. Federal Highway, Delray Beach
The Field: 3281 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale
—Christie Galeano-DeMott
expertly crafted food. Virtually everything is made in-house, from the trio of breads that first grace your table to the pasta in a suave dish of tagliatelle with duck and chicken confit. Don’t miss the jerk pork belly and grilled veal strip loin. • Dinner nightly. 561/990-7969. $$$
Villagio Italian Eatery —344 Plaza Real. Italian The classic Italian comfort food at this Mizner Park establishment is served with flair and great attention to detail. The reasonably priced menu—with generous portions—includes all your favorites (veal Parmesan, Caesar salad) and some outstanding seafood dishes (Maine lobster with shrimp, mussels and clams on linguine). There is a full wine list and ample people-watching given the prime outdoor seating. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/447-2257. $$
Yakitori —271 S.E. Mizner Blvd. Asian. This Japanese restaurant that has sat for nearly a decade in Royal Palm Place is still welcoming devoted diners and delivering consistent, premium dishes. Sip on one of its refreshing cocktails like the lychee martini or green tea mojito before perusing the vast menu that offers everything from sushi and sashimi to fried rice, ramen and entrées from the robata grill. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/544-0087. $$
WEST BOCA
Boon’s Asian Bistro —19605 N. State Road 7. Japanese/Thai. This is one of two Boon’s (the other is in Delray Beach), and it’s where the rush to eat excellent sushi started. The fast-moving staff is choreographed to deliver dishes such as shrimp pad Thai that’s light, delicate and happily filled with shrimp. The Thai fried rice is unusually delicate too, with lots of egg, and is some of the best around. The sushi rolls are as fresh and inventive (try the Daimyo roll) as they are beautifully presented. Go early or call for a reservation. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/883-0202. $$
Chloe’s Bistro —6885 S.W. 18th St. Italian. One of the few venues that’s on the water, with food to match the view. Try the seafood linguine, the large snapper filets in Marechiara sauce, and the desserts to end on a sweet note. House-made pasta and a good wine list ensure a pleasant, satisfying meal. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/334-2088. $$
City Fish Market—7940 Glades Road. Seafood. A multimillion-dollar remodel of the old Pete’s has turned it into an elegant seafood house with a lengthy seafood-friendly wine list, impeccably fresh fish and shellfish cooked with care and little artifice. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/487-1600. $$
Ditmas Kitchen —21077 Powerline Road. Contemporary kosher. This west Boca restaurant is named after a Brooklyn avenue in a district known for its food. Here you’ll find very good casual food, and no dairy products are used. Try the Hibachi salmon, all-kale Caesar salad, the shnitzel sandwich. • Dinner Sun.-Thurs. 561/826-8875. $$$
anese-Peruvian fusion) cuisine. This family-owned establishment has four locations, including one in west Boca. Order a bright ceviche and a sushi roll—or two— and you’re sure to be completely satisfied. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/4056014. $$
Oliv Pit Athenian Grille —6006 S.W. 18th St. Modern Greek. The owners’ goal of bringing together the best of Greek cooking under one roof, much like the melting pot that is Athens, is covered here in an extensive menu. The best way to enjoy the food is to share it: the Pikilia trio with tzatziki, spicy feta and eggplant spread is a starting place. Try the mix grill platter and the hearty red Greek wine. End the night with a unique, velvety frappe cappuccino. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/409-2049. $$
Skyfin Asian Bistro —8221 Glades Road. Asian. After nearly a decade of dishing out elevated Beijing cuisine at MR CHOW inside the posh W South Beach, chef Aden Lee left his sous chef position to venture out on his own. Here, you’ll find both playfully named sushi rolls and fresh sashimi alongside protein-rich house specials, fried rice and noodles. Don’t miss the Toro Roll and Tangerine Peel Beef. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/556-1688. $$
Villa Rosano —9858 Clint Moore Road. Italian. You can be forgiven for imagining yourself in some rustic Italian hill town as the smells of garlic and tomato sauce waft through the air. Start by sopping up the house olive oil with slices of crusty bread, then move on to a stellar version of clams Guazzetto and delicate fillets of sole done a la Francese. • Lunch Mon.-Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/470-0112. $$
BOYNTON BEACH
Driftwood —2005 Federal Highway. American. Driftwood consistently serves inventive dishes infused with chef Jimmy Everett’s fine-dining experience. It also stands out thanks to its dedication to guests, local purveyors and talented staff. Farmto-table isn’t just a cliché saying here. Everett’s goal as a native South Floridian is to support local farms and fishermen by sourcing hyperlocal ingredients. The menu may change based on what’s available. • Dinner Wed.-Sun. 561/733-4782. $$
Josie’s Italian Ristorante— 650 E. Woolbright Road. Italian. This cozy, family-owned restaurant is looking better than ever after a renovation that gave its dining room a more modern, elegant atmosphere in which to enjoy chef Mark Militello’s classic Italian fare. It’s easy to fill up on the hearty portions of its pasta and meat entrees, but be sure to save room for dessert to try the absolutely decadent sixteen layer chocolate cake. In the cooler months, opt for patio seating for waterfront views. • Lunch Mon.-Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/364-9601. $$
The 411 on 41 Embarcadero 41 began 2026 with the addition of four new menu items: salmon tartare ahumado, wagyu yakitori, creamy rice with crispy pork belly, and lobster pasta.
DVASH —8208 Glades Road. Mediterranean. The menu, a collection of Mediterranean fusion dishes with a variety of daily specials, caters to an array of diets, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free. The Cohen family, who previously owned Falafel Bistro & Wine Bar in Coral Springs for more than a decade, now welcomes diners to this West Boca restaurant that’s tucked away in the Publix Greenwise strip mall. • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/826-7784. $$
Prime Catch —700 E. Woolbright Road. Seafood Waterfront restaurants are few and far between in our neck of the woods, and those with good food are even more rare. Prime Catch, at the foot of the Woolbright bridge on the Intracoastal, is a best-kept secret. The simple pleasures here soar—a perfectly grilled piece of mahi or bouillabaisse overflowing with tender fish. Don’t miss one of the best Key lime pies around. • Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch. 561/737-8822. $$
Sushi Simon 1628 S. Federal Highway. Japanese. It’s been called “Nobu North” by some aficionados, and for good reason. Local sushi-philes jam the narrow dining room for such impeccable nigirizushi as hamachi and uni (Thursdays), as well as more elaborate dishes like snapper Morimoto and tuna tartare. Creative, elaborate rolls are a specialty. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/731-1819. $$
Daimyo sushi roll from Boon’s Asian Bistro
AARON
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. $$
800 Palm Trail Grill —800 Palm Trail. American This contemporary space is serving up American fare and classic cocktails. The menu has a steak-and-seafood-house feel to it but without any stuffiness. Instead, you’ll find dishes that entice the palate, like the loaded baked potato eggrolls and Wagyu boneless short rib. • Lunch and dinner daily, with patio dining. 561/865-5235. $$$
Akira Back —233 NE Second Ave. Japanese. Chef Akira Back’s Seoul restaurant earned a Michelin star a few years ago and now he’s showcasing his talented take on Japanese cuisine at his namesake restaurant inside The Ray hotel. Born in Korea and raised in Colorado, Back blends his heritage with Japanese flavors and techniques he has mastered to deliver dishes that are unique to him. With plates made to be shared, the menu is divided into cold and hot starters followed by rolls, nigiri/sashimi, robata grill, mains and fried rice. Dinner. 561/739-1708. $$$$
Buzz Bite II
Savor the Avenue
The annual feast is back on Monday, March 23. Hosted by Delray’s Downtown Development Authority, this culinary experience is one that shouldn’t be missed. Sitting under the stars on Atlantic Avenue, guests will enjoy a four-course meal crafted by one of their favorite restaurants at one expansive dinner table. Book your reservation directly with the participating restaurants and get ready for a memorable night out. downtowndelraybeach.com
—Christie Galeano-DeMott
Sliders with duck fat fries from Bourbon
Friday I’m In Love
Visit Burt & Max’s for live music from a variety of duo and trio configurations every Friday night from 8 to 10 p.m. on the restaurant’s back patio.
Amar Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar —25 S.E. Sixth Ave. Mediterranean. No longer a quaint bistro, this new version is buzzing with energy while still as charming and welcoming as ever. Dishes deliver solid, bright flavors that honor owner Nicolas Kurban’s Lebanese roots, as his family recipes take center stage alongside Mediterranean favorites that have been elevated with slight tweaks. On some evenings, there is belly dancing entertainment. • Dinner nightly. 561/865-5653. $$
Avalon Beach House—110 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. This steakhouse was transformed into a chic coastal haven for seafood and lively cocktails. Its menu features a variety of casual dishes like ahi tuna poke, fish tacos, double smash burger and short rib ragu. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/593-2500. $$
Bamboo Fire Cafe —149 N.E. Fourth Ave. Caribbean. The Jacobs family joyously shares its Latin and Caribbean culture through food that’s bursting with bright island aromas and flavors. Tostones, plantain fries and jerk meatballs share the menu with curry pork, oxtail and conch. A quintessential Delray gem. • Dinner Wed.-Sun. 561/749-0973. $
Beg for More Izakaya —19 S.E. Fifth Ave. Japanese Small Plates. The large sake, whisky and beer menu here pairs beautifully with the small plates full of everything except sushi. No sushi. And that’s fine. Try the takoyaki (octopus balls), the crispy salmon tacos and anything with the addictive kimchi, such as the kimchi fried rice. There are pasta, teriyaki and simmered duck with bok choy dishes—or 16 varieties of yakitori (food on skewers). You’ll be back to beg for more. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/563-8849. $$
Bourbon Steak
1000 E. Atlantic Ave. Steakhouse. Acclaimed chef Michael Mina’s second outpost of his famous steakhouse features a sophisticated coastal aesthetic that’s both bright and relaxed. Start with Mina’s signature duck fat fries, then enjoy a USDA prime hormone-free steak or local fish dish that will be complemented by impeccable service. Dinner nightly. 561/656-8070. $$$$
Brulé Bistro —200 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. This Pineapple Grove favorite always has satisfying dishes. Its specialties include crab tortellini with black truffles, chicken meatballs with coconut broth and cashews, plus signature dessert pistachio crème brùlée. Spirits and house cocktails steeped in speakeast style are paired with an ever-changing menu. Outside tables offer the best option for conversation. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/274-2046. $$
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. $$
Caffe Luna Rosa—34 S. Ocean Blvd. Italian. This multiple Delray Beach-award winning restaurant has sparkling service, comfort food taken to a higher level, and a setting just steps from the Atlantic. A success from day one, they dish up big flavors in a tiny space, so call for reservations. Try the calamari fritto misto, then the rigatoni pomodoro and leave room for dessert. Or come back for breakfast. • Open daily from breakfast through dinner. 561/274-9404. $$
Campi Italian—233 N.E. Second Ave. Italian. The Ray Hotel’s Campi Italian exudes a warm, relaxing ambiance. It’s perfect for an aperitivo and excels in pasta. Contemporary glass chandeliers
illuminate its swanky bar and cozy rattan booths, while crisp white tablecloths adorn the tables. • Dinner nightly. 561/576-8366. $$$
Casa L’Acqua Ristorante Italiano —9 S.E. Seventh Ave. Italian. Casa L’Acqua is touted as a fine-dining establishment, and correctly so; diners can expect white tablecloths, tuxedoed staff and attentive service. The wine list is Italian-focused but does offer a variety of bottles from around the world, and each dish is expertly prepared with sizable portions. The main dining room, with its vibey bar and wine cellar, is cozy, and so is its fully enclosed patio in the back. • Dinner nightly. 561/563-7492. $$
Chez Henry’s —16850 Jog Road. American. This casual, unpretentious restaurant in the west part of town never fails to delight diners. Expect attentive service and crisp execution of everything—from meat loaf, burgers and fried chicken to flatbreads and hefty composed salads. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/638-1949. $$
City Oyster —213 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. This stylish mainstay of Big Time Restaurant Group serves up reasonably priced seafood that never disappoints, such as shrimp and grits with a jumbo crab cake. This is the place to see and be seen in Delray, and the food lives up to its profile. • Lunch Mon.–Sun. Dinner nightly. Outdoor dining. 561/272-0220. $$
Coco Sushi Lounge & Bar —25 N.E. Second Ave., Suite 208. Asian. Local hospitality veterans Tina Wang and chef Jason Zheng continue to grow their restaurant empire with this concept. The extensive menu caters to any palate, dietary restriction or craving and features both traditional and creative dishes. Soups and salads lead into sushi selections and appetizers divided into cool and hot. Cooked and raw rolls are followed by rice, noodle, land and sea entrée options. • Dinner Mon.-Sat. Sunday brunch. 561/926-9434. $$
Cut 432—432 E. Atlantic Ave. Steakhouse. Hipper decor, a more casual vibe and an inventive take on steak-house favorites make this sleek restaurant just different enough to be interesting. Starters such as ceviche (prepared Peruvian style) and ultrarich oysters Rockefeller are first-rate, while the wet-aged beef is appropriately tender and tasty. • Dinner nightly. 561/272-9898. $$$
DADA —52 N. Swinton Ave. Contemporary. You’ll find playful dishes that are artfully crafted and warm hospitality in this historic home. Start with its famous dates, and for a comforting dish that won’t disappoint, try the meatloaf. Its cheeky interiors are a nod to the namesake art movement, yet the home’s history is also reflected in its lived-in wood floors and stone fireplace. • Dinner nightly, brunch Sundays. 561/330-3232. $$
Deck 84—840 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American Burt Rapoport’s ode to laid-back tropical dining is like a day at the beach without getting sand between your toes. Though the restaurant is casual, the kitchen takes its food seriously, whether the stellar flatbreads, the thick and juicy 10-ounce special blend burger or homey seasonal cobbler. And the waterfront location just seems to make everything taste better. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Brunch Sat.–Sun. Dinner nightly. 561/665-8484. $
Drift—10 N. Ocean Blvd. American. Inside the Opal Grand Resort & Spa, the restaurant’s coastal décor is polished with warm woods, textured stone walls, rope detailing and living walls. The bar is spacious, and several nooks overlook the ocean and the buzzy Atlantic Avenue. The all-day menu covers all the bases. You’ll find easy dishes to snack on after the beach, or if you’re craving an extended Happy Hour experience, enjoy the cheese board, hummus, baked oysters and poke alongside casual burgers, flatbreads and salads. The entrées offer something for everyone, including chicken, steak, lamb and fish. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/274-3289. $$
Steak
Eathai —1832 S. Federal Highway. Thai. If you’re craving approachable and affordable Thai food, put Eathai at the top of your list. While you can expect to find curries, noodles, soups and fried rice on the menu, the dishes here aren’t the typical ones you’ll find around town. Indulge in the Thai Chicken French Toasted or Crispy Duck Breast with Lychee Curry Sauce or Oxtail Basil Fried Rice to savor the true talent of owner and chef Sopanut Sopochana. • Lunch and dinner daily, except Tuesday. 561/270-3156. $
El Camino —15 N.E. Second Ave. Mexican. This sexy, bustling downtown spot is from the trio behind nearby Cut 432 and Park Tavern. Fresh, quality ingredients go into everything from the tangy tomatillo salsas to the world-class fish tacos clad in delicate fried skin, set off by tart pineapple salsa. Cinnamon and sugar-dusted churros are the perfect dessert. And check out the margaritas, especially the smoky blend of mezcal and blanco tequila. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/865-5350. $$
Elisabetta’s —32 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. An ornate Italian spot, with classically prepared dishes including spiedini shrimp, burrata de prosciutto bruschetta, costoletta di vitello (veal), a guanciale pizza, cacio e pepe pasta, malfadine Amatriciana and gemelli puttanesca. Portions are large and that, thankfully, goes for the homemade gelati, too. The best seating outdoors is the second-floor balcony overlooking Atlantic Avenue.
• Lunch and dinner daily; weekend brunch. 561/560-6699. $$
Gabriella’s Modern Italian —40 N.E. Seventh Ave. Italian. Craveable, modern Italian American cuisine in a gorgeous space with a stunning circular bar and outdoor patio. The Parm Bar is the star of the menu, but there are several
noteworthy supporting players like the housemade tagliatelle, meatballs and tiramisu. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/9163001. $$$
The Grove —187 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. The Grove, which has been tucked inside the tranquil Pineapple Grove district for nearly a decade, continues to surprise diners with its vibrant dishes. The upscale but casually comfortable nook has an international wine list that spans the globe and a seasonal menu that’s succinct and well thought out.
• Dinner Tues.-Sat. 561/266-3750. $$
The Hampton Social —40 N.E. Seventh Ave. American. The Hampton Social is known for its “rosé all day” tagline, but it doesn’t just slay its rosé; its food is equally as tempting. It does a standout job of incorporating its casual coastal aesthetic into not just its décor but also its menu, from its seafood-centric dishes to its droll cocktail names like the vodka-forward I Like It a Yacht. • Lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. 561/404-1155. $$
Il Girasole —2275 S. Federal Highway. Northern Italian If you want Northern Italian in a low-key atmosphere, and nobody rushing you out the door, this is your spot. Start with something from the very good wine list. Try the yellowtail snapper, the penne Caprese and the capellini Gamberi, and leave room for the desserts. Reservations recommended. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/272-3566. $$
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 every-
Buzz Bite III
Dania Beach Wine & Seafood Festival
The annual festival returns on Saturday, March 14. Guests will be treated to unlimited food crafted by talented chefs, and more than 40 wine brands and breweries will be pouring samples. This familyand pet-friendly event will feature live music by local bands and entertaining live cooking demonstrations. 100 W. Dania Beach Blvd., Dania Beach; daniabeachwineandseafoodfest.com
—Christie Galeano-DeMott
On Cloud Wine
While everyone has their favorite wines and may even prefer a certain wine region, this month, with the help of a few local sommeliers, we’re exploring underrated areas, discovering underrepresented grapes, and highlighting lesser-known wines that might even become your new favorite sip.
Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT
GEORGE RYAN,
Bourbon Steak, Delray Beach
Gigondas is a town in Southeastern France in the Southern Rhône valley that produces full-bodied red wines. The primary grape is Grenache, and it’s usually blended with Syrah and Mourvèdre to produce a GSM wine. It’s a great alternative to its more famous neighbor, Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
CHECK OUT: Domaine Les Pallières and Domaine du Cayron
Paso Robles is one of California’s wine regions, and while many flock to Napa Valley, this Central Coast winemaking area, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, is producing world-class Rhône-style blends and Zinfandels.
CHECK OUT: Tablas Creek Vineyard and Eberle Winery
UNDERRATED GRAPE VARIETIES
JACQUÈRE: France, try it if you like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
VERNACCIA: Italy, try it if you like unoaked Chardonnay
CINSAULT: France, try it if you like Pinot Noir
TAL COHEN,
The Vintage on Harrison, Hollywood
The Loire Valley in central France is well known for Sancerre, but there are many other appellations worth exploring. And while you’re there, you might as well visit the stunning châteaux.
CHECK OUT: Domaine du Salvard Cheverny Blanc, Domaine Pichot Vouvray, Domaine du Chanteleuserie Bourgueil “Cuvee Beauvais”
Piedmont borders France and Switzerland and produces a wide variety of wines, from bold to bubbly. The area consistently produces quality wines like Barolo and Barbaresco, but you’ll also find budget-friendly versions that still deliver, like Barbera.
CHECK OUT: G.D. Vajra and Oddero
UNDERRATED GRAPE VARIETIES
CABERNET FRANC: France, try it if you like Cabernet Sauvignon
GRÜNER VELTLINER: Austria and Hungary, try it if you like Sauvignon Blanc
ALEKSANDRA CECHULSKA, 1000 NORTH, Jupiter
Abruzzo spans Italy’s southeastern coast with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. It’s mainly known for its indigenous Montepulciano grape, which should not be confused with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a Tuscan wine made primarily from Sangiovese grapes. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo has had a longstanding reputation as a table wine, but these days producers are focusing on low-intervention, terroir-driven, age-worthy wines.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCERS: Emidio
Pepe and Valentini. Both the Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wines and Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo rosés are worth the splurge, and are a treat for collectors.
Soave is an Italian town near Verona. It’s known for producing wines made primarily from the Garganega grape.
RECOMMENDED PRODUCER: Zambon Vulcano
UNDERRATED GRAPE VARIETIES
Nebbiolo, or Chiavennasca, is also used to make Sforzato di Valtellina, an Italian red wine. Try it if you like Amarone.
GARGANEGA: Italy, try it if you like Chenin Blanc
DURELLA: Italy, try it if you like a sparkling Chenin Blanc Crémant de Loire
EAT & DRINK RESTAURANT DIRECTORY
thing from burgers and wraps to a menu brimming with seafood options. Don’t forget to inquire about the stunning array of 10 specials—every night. This is is a bona fide local go-to spot that never disappoints. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/272-3390. $$
Jimmy’s Bistro —9 S. Swinton Ave. International. Jimmy’s Bistro is a casual neighborhood concept serving consistently delightful dishes from a diverse menu that can transport diners to Italy with house-made pasta or Asia with its delicate dumplings and tender duck. • Dinner nightly. 561/865-5774. $$$
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. $$$
Le Colonial 601 E. Atlantic Ave. Vietnamese French. Le Colonial radiates classic elegance that is as sophisticated as it is comfortable. Created to showcase Vietnamese cuisine and its French influences, Le Colonial has a standout method of curating classic Vietnamese dishes that appeal to various palates, from meat lovers and pescatarians to vegetarians. The space immediately transports you back to Saigon’s tropical paradise of the 1920s. Lush birds of paradise and palms line the halls that lead into intimate dining nooks throughout the 7,000-square-foot restaurant.• Lunch (on weekends) and dinner daily. 561/566-1800. $$$
Lefkes Estiatorio —33 S.E. Third Ave. Greek. This redesigned space, inside the former Delray Beach Market food hall, is home to Greek wines, traditional Greek classics, and a few contemporary takes on the cuisine. Make sure to save room for the baklava. If you’re looking for a lively late-night Mykonos vibe, complete with napkin throwing and pulsating tunes, Lefkes also delivers. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/908-2331. $$$
Lemongrass Bistro—420 E. Atlantic Ave. Pan-Asian
Casually hip ambience, friendly service, moderate prices and a blend of sushi and nouveau pan-Asian fare make this a popular destination. The quality of its seafood and care in its preparation are what gives Lemongrass its edge. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/567-0442. (Other Palm Beach County locations: 101 Plaza Real S., Boca Raton, 561/5448181; 1880 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach, 561/733-1344). $
Lulu’s —189 N.E. Second Ave. American. Lulu’s in Pineapple Grove offers a relaxed ambiance with unfussy, approachable food. The quaint café is open every day and serves an all-day menu including breakfast until 3 p.m. and a selection of appetizers, sandwiches, salads and entrées that are ideal for an executive lunch, lively tapas happy hour, casual dinner or late night snack (until 2 a.m.). • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/453-2628. $
MIA Kitchen & Bar —7901 W. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Owner Joey Lograsso and chef Jason Binder have curated a balanced choreography of fascinating yet approachable dishes. The menu travels the world from Italy to Asia and showcases Binder’s formal training with elevated dishes that are exceptionally executed. It’s vibey with a great playlist, and the design, reminiscent of a cool Wynwood bar, is industrial with exposed ducts, reclaimed wood and sculptural filament chandeliers. It’s a place that amps up all your senses. • Dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/499-2200. $$$
The Office —201 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Your office is nothing like this eclectic gastropub, unless your office sports more than two dozen craft beers on tap and a menu that flits from burgers and fries to mussels. Don’t miss the restaurant’s winning take on the thick, juicy Prime beef burger and simply wicked maple-frosted donuts with bacon bits and two dipping sauces. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/278-3796. $$
Papa’s Tapas —259 N.E. Second Ave. Spanish. This family-owned restaurant will make you feel welcomed, and its cuisine will satisfy your craving for Spanish tapas. Start with a few shareable plates and then enjoy a hearty paella that’s bursting with a selection of seafood, chicken or vegetables. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat., dinner Sun. 561/266-0599. $
Park Tavern —32 S.E. Second Ave. Contemporary American. Check out the high-top seating or bar stools during an excellent happy hour menu that includes deviled eggs, pork sliders, chicken wings and a happy crowd. Entrees are generous and well executed. Try the fish and chips, one of six burgers, fish tacos and more. • Dinner nightly. Brunch Sat.-Sun. 561/265-5093. $$
Rose’s Daughter —169 N.E. Second Ave. Italian. Chef-owner Suzanne Perrotto, who also owns Brulé Bistro, celebrates her family’s Italian roots and its beloved recipes here—especially when it comes to her house-made pizza and pasta. Perrotto’s famous short rib pappardelle was even featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Dinner Wed.-Sun. • 561/271-9423. $$
Sazio —131 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian. This long-lived venue on crowded Atlantic Avenue is a reason to sit down and take a breath. Then take up a fork and try the linguine with white clam sauce or the ravioli Sazio or grilled skirt steak or pretty much anything on the menu. Prices are reasonable; leftovers are popular. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/272-5540. $$
Chefs’ Choice
Chefs Hiro Jiang and Masa Zheng, who oversee the 18-course dinners at Taki Omakase, have worked at such notable New York City restaurants as Sushi Samba, Masa and Morimoto.
Table 165 —165 N.E. Second Ave. Contemporary. The quaint Pineapple Grove restaurant is a contrast of moody drama and glowing cheeriness with its vintage Art Nouveau bar and dazzling adjacent dining room. Chef Coton Stine’s continued advocacy for locally sourced ingredients and her enthusiastic support for our Florida farms really shine here in dishes like the seafood rassa. • Dinner Wed.-Mon. 561/2663629. $$$
Taki Omakase —632 E. Atlantic Ave. Japanese. Taki Omakase, a shining example of omakase done right, has opened not one but two locations in our community (the other is at 1658 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton). It is pricy—an experience is more than $100 per person—but it’s worth it, with one caveat: You must enthusiastically love eating raw fish. Every night is different because it prides itself on importing fish, meat and seasonal ingredients from Japan that arrive daily. So, if you do pine for the delicacies of the sea, buckle in and get ready for the talented chefs at Taki Omakase to guide you through a culinary journey unlike anything else.• Dinner nightly, lunch hour Fri.Sun. 561/759-7362. $$$$
Terra Fiamma —9169 W. Atlantic Ave. Italian. The pleasures of simple, well-prepared Italian-American cuisine are front and center here. Enjoy the delicate, pillow-y veal meatballs in Marsala sauce; lusty chicken Allessandro with mushrooms, spinach and artichoke hearts; and a finely crafted tiramisu that’s as satisfying as it is familiar. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/4955570. $$
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. $$$
Vic & Angelo’s —290 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian . People watching is a staple ingredient here, a complement to the Italian fare. The wine menu is robust, mainly grounded in Italy but with choices from around the world. Larger than personal pies, thin-crust pizzas are family-friendly, while you won’t want to share the Quattro Formaggi Tortellini, fluffy purses filled with al dente pear and topped with truffle cream. For a protein, try the traditional chicken parmigiana, a hearty portion of paper-thin breaded chicken breast topped with a subtly sweet San Marzano sauce under a gooey layer of fresh mozzarella, and a substantial side of linguine pomodoro. If you have room for dessert, the classic sweets include cannoli and tiramisu. • Dinner nightly; brunch weekends. 561/278-9570. $$
LAKE WORTH BEACH
Oceano Kitchen —512 Lucerne Ave. Contemporary American. Chefs and owners Jeremy and Cindy Bearman, James Beard-nominated toques who trained under rock stars such as Daniel Boulud and Joel Robuchon, have a talent for crafting a simple daily menu of ever-changing dishes that explode with flavors and are curated with thoughtfulness and the utmost detail. Genuine hospitality is at the core of their restaurant. Dinner Tues.-Sat. 561/400-7418. $$$
Paradiso Ristorante —625 Lucerne Ave. Italian. A Tomasz Rut mural dominates the main dining room, and there is also a pasticceria and bar for gelato and espresso. Chef Angelo Romano offers a modern Italian menu. The Mediterranean salt-crusted branzino is definitely a musttry. Plus, the wine list is a veritable tome. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/547-2500. $$$
LANTANA
Ravish Off Ocean —210 E. Ocean Ave. International. Ravish Off Ocean is a delightful dining experience less than a mile from the powdery sands of South Palm Beach. The coastal vibes are evident here with sea-inspired options like local fish ceviche, tuna tartare, fish tacos and a daily catch. • Dinner nightly, Sunday brunch. 561/588-2444. $$
The Station House —233 Lantana Road. Seafood. If you’re hungry for Maine lobster, plucked live out of giant tanks and cooked to order, this modest replica of a 1920s train station is the place to go. Lobsters come in all sizes (up to 6 pounds) and are reasonably priced. • Dinner nightly. 561/8015000. $$
Sazio
AARON
BRISTOL
PALM BEACH
Acqua Café —2875 S Ocean Blvd. Italian. This quaint neighborhood restaurant serves quality Italian favorites with a coastal twist. It’s part of the Al Fresco Hospitality Group portfolio, which also includes Via Mizner’s legendary Renato’s.• Lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. 561/547-0005. $$$
Bice —313 Worth Ave. Italian. Bice continues to hold the title of favorite spot on the island. The venerable restaurant offers a marvelous array of risottos and fresh pastas and classic dishes like veal chop Milanese, pounded chicken breast and roasted rack of lamb. The wine list features great vintages. • Lunch and dinner daily. Outdoor dining. 561/835-1600. $$$
Buccan —350 S. County Road. Contemporary American. Casual elegance of Palm Beach meets modern culinary sensibilities of Miami at the first independent restaurant by chef Clay Conley. The design offers both intimate and energetic dining areas, while the menu is by turn familiar (wood-grilled burgers) and more adventurous (truffled steak tartare with crispy egg yolk, squid ink orrechiette). • Dinner nightly. 561/833-3450. $$$
Café Boulud —The Brazilian Court, 301 Australian Ave. French with American flair. This hotel restaurant gives Palm Beach a taste of Daniel Boulud’s world-class cuisine inspired by his four muses. The chef oversees a menu encompassing classics, simple fare, seasonal offerings and dishes from around the world. Dining is in the courtyard, the elegant lounge or the sophisticated dining room. • Dinner nightly. 561/655-6060. $$$
Café L’Europe —331 S. County Road. Current International. A Palm Beach standard, the café has long been known for its peerless beauty, the piano player, the chilled martinis and the delicious Champagne and caviar bar. Try one of its sophisticated classics like wiener schnitzel with herbed spaetzle, grilled veal chop and flavorful pastas. • Lunch Tues.–Fri. Dinner nightly (closed Mon. during summer). 561/655-4020. $$$
Echo —230A Sunrise Ave. Asian. The cuisine reverberates with the tastes of China, Thailand, Japan and Vietnam. The Chinese hot and sour soup is unlike any other, and the sake list is tops. This offsite property of The Breakers is managed with the same flawlessness as the resort. • Dinner nightly (during season). 561/802-4222. $$$
Henry’s Palm Beach —229 Royal Poinciana Way. American Bistro. Part of The Breakers’ restaurant properties, this venue opened in 2020 and is an elegant addition to The Island. Try the pigs in a pretzel dough blanket, beer can corn, the lobster roll, butter crumb Dover sole and chicken pot pie. All comfort food with a Palm Beach twist, and it’s all delicious. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/206-1896. $$$
HMF—1 S. County Road. Contemporary American. Beneath the staid, elegant setting of The Breakers, HMF is the Clark Kent of restaurants, dishing an extensive array of exciting, inventive, oh-so-contemporary small plates. Don’t depart without sampling the dreamy warm onion-Parmesan dip with house-made fingerling potato chips, the sexy wild boar empanaditas, chicken albondigas tacos and Korean-style short ribs. The wine list is encyclopedic. • Dinner nightly. 561/290-0104. $$
Imoto —350 S. County Road. Asian Fusion/Tapas. Clay Conley’s “little sister” (the translation of Imoto from Japanese) is next to his always-bustling Buccan. Imoto turns out Japanese-inspired small plates with big-city sophistication, like witty Peking duck tacos and decadent tuna and foie gras sliders. Sushi selection is limited but immaculately fresh. • Dinner nightly. 561/833-5522. $$
Meat Market—191 Bradley Place. Steakhouse “Meat Market” may be an inelegant name for a very elegant and inventive steakhouse but there’s no dissonance in its food, service or ambience. Multiple cuts of designer beef from multiple sources can be gilded with a surprising array of sauces, butters and upscale add-ons. Whole roasted cauliflower is an intriguing starter, while a meaty Niman Ranch short rib atop lobster risotto takes surf-n-turf to a new level. Cast your diet to the winds and order the dessert sampler. • Dinner nightly. 561/354-9800. $$$$
Renato’s —87 Via Mizner. Italian with continental flair. This most romantic hideaway is buzzing in season and quietly charming all year long with Italian classics and a Floridian twist— like the sautéed black grouper in a fresh tomato and pernod broth with fennel and black olives and the wildflower-honey-glazed salmon fillet with crab and corn flan. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/655-9752. $$$
WEST PALM BEACH
Banko Cantina —114 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. Northern Mexican. Start with the Adelita cocktail and don’t
look back. The bacon-wrapped shrimp, the Al Carbon steak tacos and the house guacamole add up to a full-flavor dinner. The west-facing rooftop bar is a nice sunset option, and the Pan de Elote (homemade sweet cornbread with vanilla ice cream and berries) is a delightful end to the evening. • Dinner daily. 561/355-1399. $$
The Blue Door —5700 S. Dixie Highway. Mediterranean. The Blue Door’s vibrant hospitality welcomes you the moment you step through the arched, sapphire-hued entrance. Its lush landscaping and casual yet refined menu take you straight to the southern European coastline. • Dinner nightly. 561/360-2064. $$$
Café Centro —2409 N. Dixie Highway. Modern American. A cornerstone in the Northwood neighborhood, this venue draws because of a complete package: food, drinks and great nightlife and music. Take some char-grilled oysters, add shrimp pesto capellini or a marinated pork chop with polenta, plus local singing fave Tessie Porter, and you have a fun and delicious night out. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/514-4070. $$
French Corner Bistro & Rotisserie — 4595 Okeechobee Blvd. Classic French. It’s France in a tiny venue, with big-taste dishes that include all the faves: beef bourguignon, rack of lamb, duck à l’orange, frog legs Provencale, veal kidneys, tender branzino and simple desserts to end the meal. Reservations are mandatory for dinner. • Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 561/689-1700. $$
Grato —1901 S. Dixie Highway. Italian. “Grato” is Italian for “grateful,” and there is much to be grateful for about Clay Conley’s sophisticated yet unpretentious take on Italian cookery. Anyone would be grateful to find such delicate, crispy and greaseless fritto misto as Grato’s, ditto for lusty beef tartare piled onto a quartet of crostini. Spinach gnocchi in porcini mushroom sauce are a revelation, so light and airy they make other versions taste like green library paste. Don’t miss the porchetta either, or the silken panna cotta with coffee ice cream and crunchy hazelnut tuille. • Dinner nightly. Sunday brunch. 561/404-1334. $$
The House —7301 Georgia Ave. Modern American. Located inside The Park, West Palm Beach’s public golf course, The House has a bright contemporary aesthetic with massive floor-to-ceiling windows that spotlight the course’s natural beauty. The menu is approachable and offers something for everyone. It also features unique and interesting takes on dishes like spiny lobster corn dogs. • Lunch and dinner Wed.-Sun., weekend brunch. 561/530-3791. $$
Weekend on the Water
Capitalizing on its prime coastal location, Lamarina’s brunch menu offers myriad flavors from the sea, including oysters on the half shell and butterflied branzino.
Lamarina —4050 N. Flagler Drive. Mediterranean. Pair sprawling mega-yacht views with shareable Mediterranean-inspired plates. Located at Safe Harbor Rybovich Marina, this waterfront restaurant features a seafood-focused menu. Try the Lamarina sushi roll for a flavor-packed experience, or choose the Maine lobster spaghetti, a savory dish that will satisfy. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/371-8380. $$$
Leila —120 S. Dixie Highway. Mediterranean. Flowing drapes and industrial lighting complete the exotic decor in this Middle Eastern hit. Sensational hummus is a must-try. Lamb kebab with parsley, onion and spices makes up the delicious Lebanese lamb kefta. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner Mon.–Sun. 561/659-7373. $$
Marcello’s La Sirena —6316 S. Dixie Highway. Italian . You’re in for a treat if the pasta of the day is prepared with what might be the best Bolognese sauce ever. • Dinner Mon.–Sat. (closed Memorial Day–Labor Day). 561/585-3128. $$
Pink Steak —2777 S. Dixie Highway. Steakhouse. This steakhouse offers plenty of choice cuts and classic chophouse appetizers, such as Caesar salad and shrimp cocktail, but don’t miss the other noteworthy options, like sushi and beef tartare. The pink-hued space is accented with tropical murals, plush avocado-green booths, plume-like chandeliers and plenty of flamingoes. It’s undoubtedly a vibe. • Dinner nightly, Sunday brunch. 561/557-9083. $$$$
Pistache —1010 N. Clematis St., #115. French. Pistache doesn’t just look like a French bistro, it cooks like one. The menu includes such bistro specialties as coq au vin and steak tartare. All that, plus guests dining al fresco have views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Centennial Park. • Brunch Sat.–Sun. Lunch and dinner daily. 561/833-5090. $$
Rhythm Café —3800 S. Dixie Highway. Casual American. Once a diner, the interior is eclectic with plenty of kitsch. The crab cakes are famous here, and the tapas are equally delightful. Homemade ice cream and the chocolate chip cookies defy comparison. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/833-3406. $$
Table 26°—1700 S. Dixie Highway. Contemporary American. Take a quarter-cup of Palm Beach, a tablespoon of Nantucket, a pinch of modern American cookery and a couple gallons of the owners’ savoir faire, and you have Eddie Schmidt’s and Ozzie Medeiros’s spot. The menu roams the culinary globe for modest contemporary tweaks on classically oriented dishes. Try the fried calamari “Pad Thai.” • Dinner nightly. 561/855-2660. $$$
Broward County
DEERFIELD BEACH
Chanson —45 N.E. 21st Ave. Contemporary American/ French. A little bit of Palm Beach, a little bit of Italy comes to Deerfield Beach in the form of this elegant, sophisticated restaurant in the oceanfront Royal Blues Hotel. Service is as stellar as the views from the cozy, modestly opulent dining room, notable for the 1,500-gallon aquarium embedded in the ceiling. Consistency can be an issue with the food, but when it is good it is very good. • Breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Tues.-Sat., brunch Sun. 954/857-2929. $$$
Oceans 234—234 N. Ocean Blvd., Deerfield Beach. Contemporary American. One of the only oceanfront (as in, on the beach) options in South Florida, this familiar-with-a-twist venue is fun to both visit and eat. Try the Infamous Lollipop Chicken Wings, a starter that could be an entrée. Seafood is definitely top-shelf, as are the desserts. A true Florida experience. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/428-2539. $$
Tradition —626 S. Federal Highway. French. This is a petite place with a large following, for good reason. Owners Eric and Anais Heintz start meals with an amuse-bouche and a menu that spans the length of France. Order a creamy Caesar salad with a light anchovy-based dressing. Try the coq au vin (sauce cooked for two days), and if you like calves’ liver, this is the best you’ll find in the area. End with a Grand Marnier soufflé (worth the 15-minute wait), and make your next reservation there before going home. • Dinner Mon.-Sat. 954/480-6464. $$
LIGHTHOUSE POINT
Cap’s Place 2765 N.E. 28th Court. Seafood. Eating here requires a boat ride, which is very SoFla and terrific for
Margherita pizza from Grato
visitors. This is one of—if not the only—family-run, old-Florida seafood restaurants you’ve never heard of, open since the 1920s. The heart of palm salad is the best and purest version around. Seafood abounds; fish can be prepared nine ways and much more. (There are non-seafood dishes that are done well, too.) Go for the short boating thrill and for the food. • Dinner Tues.-Sun. 954/941-0418. $$
Le Bistro —4626 N. Federal Highway. Modern French. The menu is modern and healthy—98-percent gluten-free, according to chef Andy Trousdale and co-owner Elin Trousdale. Check out the prix-fixe menu, which includes pan-roasted duck to beef Wellington. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 954/946-9240. $$$
Seafood World —4602 N. Federal Highway. Seafood This seafood market and restaurant offers some of the freshest seafood in the county. Its unpretentious atmosphere is the perfect setting for the superb king crab, Maine lobster, Florida lobster tails and much more. Tangy Key lime pie is a classic finish. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/942-0740. $$
POMPANO BEACH
Calypso Restaurant—460 S. Cypress Road. Caribbean. This bright little dining room and bar (beer and wine only) has a Caribbean menu that is flavorful, imaginative—and much more. Calypso offers a spin on island food that includes sumptuous conch dishes, Stamp & Go Jamaican fish cakes and tasty rotis stuffed with curried chicken, lamb or seafood. • Lunch and dinner Mon.–Fri. 954/942-1633. $
Café Maxx —2601 E. Atlantic Blvd. American. The longstanding institution from chef Oliver Saucy is as good now as when it opened in the mid-1980s. Main courses offer complex flavor profiles, such as the sweet-onion-crusted yellowtail snapper on Madeira sauce over mashed potatoes. Parts of the menu change daily. • Dinner nightly. Brunch Sunday. 954/7820606. $$$
South Bar & Kitchen—165 N.E. First Ave. Southern Serves southern comfort cuisine in a dazzling space with plush emerald-green banquettes, warm wood detailing, and a spacious indoor/outdoor bar leading out to an expansive terrace and second bar. • Dinner Tues.-Sun., weekend brunch. 954/890-2000. $$
COCONUT CREEK
Grand Slam
The only NYY Steak outside of Yankee Stadium, the Coconut Creek restaurant features dishes shaped like baseball diamonds and dinner plates imprinted with the numbers of legendary Yankees.
NYY Steak—Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, 5550 N.W. 40th St. Steakhouse. The second incarnation of this Yankees-themed restaurant swings for the fences—and connects— with monstrous portions, chic decor and decadent desserts. The signature steaks are a meat lover’s dream; seafood specialties include Maine lobster and Alaskan king crab. • Dinner nightly. Brunch Sun. 954/935-6699. $$$$
FORT LAUDERDALE
15th Street Fisheries —1900 S.E. 15th St. Seafood. Surrounded by views of the Intracoastal, this Old Florida-style restaurant features seafood and selections for land lovers. We love the prime rib. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/763-2777. $$
Bistro 17—Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Hotel, 1617 S.E. 17th St. Contemporary American. This small, sophisticated restaurant continues to impress with competently presented food. The menu is surprisingly diverse. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 954/626-1748. $$
Bistro Mezzaluna —1821 S.E. 10th Ave. Italian. The bistro is all Euro-chic decor—mod lighting, abstract paintings. It also has good food, from pastas to steaks and chops and a wide range of fresh seasonal fish and seafood. Don’t forget the phenomenal wine list. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/522-9191. $$
Café Martorano—3343 E. Oakland Park Blvd. Italian. Standouts include crispy calamari in marinara sauce and flavorful veal osso buco. Our conclusion: explosive flavor, attention to all the details and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Waiters whisper the night’s specials as if they’re family secrets. • Dinner nightly. 954/561-2554. $$
Casablanca Café—3049 Alhambra St. American, Mediterranean. The restaurant has an “Arabian Nights” feel, with strong Mediterranean influences. Try the peppercorn-dusted filet mignon with potato croquette, Gorgonzola sauce and roasted pepper and Granny Smith relish. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/764-3500. $$
Casa D’Angelo —1210 N. Federal Highway, #5A. Italian. Many dishes are specials—gnocchi, risotto and scaloppine. The marinated grilled veal chop is sautéed with wild mushrooms in a fresh rosemary sauce. A delightful pasta entrée is the pappardelle con porcini: thick strips of fresh pasta coated in a light red sauce and bursting with slices of porcini mushrooms. • Dinner nightly. 954/564-1234. $$
Chima —2400 E. Las Olas Blvd. Steaks. The Latin American rodizio-churrascaria concept—all the meat you can eat, brought to your table—is done with high style, fine wines and excellent service. The sausages, filet mignon, pork ribs and lamb chops are very good. • Dinner nightly. 954/712-0580. $$$
Il Mulino —1800 E. Sunrise Blvd. Italian. This modest, unpretentious Italian restaurant doesn’t attempt to reinvent the culinary wheel. Instead, it dishes up big portions of simple, hearty, flavorful food at extremely reasonable prices. Zuppa de pesce is a wealth of perfectly cooked seafood over linguini in a light tomato-based sauce. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/524-1800. $
MAASS: Chef’s Counter —525 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. Contemporary. MAASS was the only Fort Lauderdale restaurant awarded a Michelin star in 2025. While it’s considered chef Ryan Ratino’s third starred restaurant, one must clarify that it was only The Chef’s Counter, the 14 seats overlooking the open kitchen, which received the honor from the iconic gastronomic guide. The menu offers two prix fixe Japanese-inspired menus that differ in price and duration. • Dinner nightly. 954/256-0000. $$$$
Sea Watch —6002 N. Ocean Blvd. Seafood. For a righton-the-beach, welcome-to-Florida dining experience, there’s Sea Watch. Decked out in a pervasive nautical theme, this is definitely tourist country, but it’s pretty and on the beach. The perfect entrée for the indecisive: The broiled seafood medley brochette, with lobster tail, jumbo shrimp and scallops, yellow squash, zucchini, mushrooms and pineapple. • Lunch and dinner daily. 954/781-2200. $$
WEB EXTRA: check out our complete tri-county dining guide only at BOCAMAG.COM
Chawanmushi from MAASS
CARINA
MASK
Boca Raton Insider
INTERCOASTAL WEALTH PLANNING, LLC
Intercoastal Wealth Planning is a financial planning firm that focuses on guiding clients through challenging markets, understanding their risk and other Life transitions. Working with clients who are accumulating wealth as well as business owners who need to understand how to turn their life‘s work into their retirement income stream. We have a new location at 6751 North Federal Highway, Suite 400, Boca Raton. Call us for an appointment at 561.210.7339.
IMPACT 100 PALM BEACH COUNTY
As Impact 100 Palm Beach County enters its 15th giving year, we celebrate a simple yet powerful belief that women, united by generosity and shared purpose, can create meaningful and lasting community change. Through collective giving, each member contributes $1,000 annually, which is pooled to fund life-changing grants for nonprofits serving southern Palm Beach County. As we pursue 1,000 members in this milestone year, women are invited to learn more, get involved, and help shape our next chapter at impact100pbc.org.
261 NW 13th Street, Boca Raton, FL 33432
561-336-4623 impact100pbc.org
6751 N. Federal Highway, Suite 400, Boca Raton, FL 33487
561.210.7339 intercoastalwealth.com
FILLY & COLT
After over 25 years in Boca Raton we’ve definitely carved out a niche. Come by and be ready to let one of the “fillies” dress y’all up! Remember “Life can be hard, clothes should be fun!”
Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5 pm.
Garden Shops
7050 West Palmetto Park Road (at Powerline) Boca Raton FL 33433
561.447.4117
fillyandcoltboca.com @robynesobel
Boca Raton Insider
ACCESS THE LIFE OF YOUR DREAMS
As a Realtor Associate with Fortune Christie’s International Real Estate, Alexandra Gonzalez serves clients seeking luxury residences in landmark developments. Her bilingual expertise is a strategic advantage for international buyers navigating South Florida’s competitive market. A member of the Christie’s International Real Estate Masters Circle, Alexandra is a trusted resource for clients relocating to the area seeking high-end properties.
Elevate your custom homebuilding journey with the expertise of Sandhill Builders. Rely on our renowned craftsmanship to create a residence that reflects your refined lifestyle. Whether you’re building, remodeling, or constructing your dream home on your own cherished home site—or exploring our collection of exquisite custom homes, kitchens, living rooms, and more throughout South Florida—Sandhill Builders is your trusted partner in bringing your vision to life.
8323 44th Ct. C, Boynton Beach, FL 33436
561-424-1117
sandhillbuildersfl.com
AFFORDABLE MARBLE RESTORATION
We provide natural stone surface care services, such as granite, marble, limestone, onyx, travertine, terrazzo, Mexican tile, concrete, and saturnia. We can offer a full range of services to restore stone surfaces, including cleaning, grinding, honing, polishing, and sealing. Our team of professionals is also ready to offer services for surface damage repair and scratch removal and polishing. If you are looking for professionals who can restore the beauty and attractiveness of your stone surfaces, please contact us.
20423 FL-7 Suite F6 #341, Boca Raton, FL 33498 1831 S. Dixie Hwy, Pompano Beach, FL 33060
800.208.3050
affordablemarblerestoration.com
FULLER CENTER WEE DREAM BALL
WHERE: Boca West Country Club
WHAT: The Fuller Center’s signature gala returned for its 20th year for an evening of “Emerald Enchantment”-themed festivities. Emceed by CBS12 News Morning Anchor Sam Kerrigan, the soldout affair exceeded its fundraising goal of $650,000, all of which will benefit Fuller Center’s holistic support programs for families in need. Guests were welcomed with a moving rendition of “God Bless America” by Fuller Academy students before hitting the dance floor and celebrating the milestone anniversary. Sponsors included the Sam and Simone Spiegel Family Foundation, Gary Peters Family Foundation, Philip and JoAnn Procacci, Vertical Bridge, Boca magazine and many more.
1: “Bernie” Award Recipient Carolina Doering, Honorary Chair Dr. Patricia Anastasio, Fuller Center CEO Eric Roby
2: Fuller Center Board President Matt Scheer, “Bernie” Award Recipient Carolina Doering, Honorary Chair Dr. Patricia Anastasio, Fuller Center CEO Eric Roby
4: Michael Woodward and Palm Beach County Commissioner Marci Woodward
5: Fuller Center Wee Dream Ball gala dance floor
6: JoAnn and Philip Procacci
7: Fuller Center Teen Leader Marichi Aria, Fuller Center CEO Eric Roby
8: Center: Fuller Center CEO Eric Roby and Presenting Sponsor and Wee Dream Ball Co-Chair Michelle Hagerty with Wee Dream Ball entertainers
9: Gail Wasserman
10: Jonathan and Sabrina Smith, Simone and Sam Spiegel
LYNN GINGERBREAD CONCERT
WHERE: Keith C. and Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center
WHAT: The Lynn University Philharmonia hosted its annual festive holiday celebration, performing a dazzling set list of seasonal favorites. Attendees of the sold-out performance enjoyed spirited renditions of “Hanukkah Festival,” “Nutcracker Mini Jazz Suite,” “A Charleston Christmas” and much more. Each group within the Philharmonia was given the spotlight, from the woodwind quintet’s performance of “A Christmas Jazz Suite” to student jazz group Boca Train’s jaunty rendition of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” The concert raised more than $110,000, all of which benefits scholarship funds for the Lynn Conservatory of Music.
1: Lynn Conservatory of Music Dean Dr. Jon Robertson with the Lynn University Philharmonia
2: Former Lynn University President Dr. Donald E. Ross, current Lynn University President Kevin M. Ross
3: Pat Thomas
4: Lynn University Philharmonia percussionists Josie Diaz and Johnny Monk
5: Bruce Spizler, Kim Champion
6: Jerry and Terry Fedele
MEN GIVING BACK’S ANNUAL GOLDEN GRANTS EVENING
WHERE: Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club
WHAT: Men Giving Back’s annual Golden Grants Evening returned for its fifth year to put the “fun” in fundraising for local nonprofits. More than 200 members, nonprofit nominees and guests enjoyed live music, topshelf libations and dinner ahead of a ceremony honoring the 12 nonprofits that would go home with more than $500,000 in grants. Major grant winners, selected with a spin of Men Giving Back’s “Wheel of Giving,” were Feeding Palm Beach County, Kindness Matters 365, Palm Beach County Food Bank and Speak Up for Kids, each receiving nearly $100,000. Other beneficiaries included the Achievement Centers for Children & Families, Bound for College, Caridad Center, Delray Beach Public Library, Faulk Center, HomeSafe, In Jacob’s Shoes and Youth Environmental Alliance, all of which received between $12,500 and $30,000 in grants. Since its inception, Men Giving Back has awarded more than $3.5 million in grants to area nonprofits.
1: 2025 Men Giving Back Board of Directors
2: Zivko Kamce, Paul Nolan, Clifton Mack
3: Brad Ginsberg, Paige Kornblue, Dr. Nathan Nachlas
4: Robert Snyder, Sean Cooper, Cary Ginter, Tom Daley, Steve Sibner
5: Major grant winners Feeding Palm Beach County, Palm Beach County Food Bank, Kindness Matters 365, Speak Up for Kids
6: Jarred Elmer, Mark Woolfe, Michael Beeber, Douglas Mandel
THE ADDISON CENTENNIAL GALA
WHERE: The Addison
WHAT: Boca Raton wasn’t the only one celebrating its centennial in 2025. The Addison celebrated its 100th anniversary with a sold-out gala that highlighted the storied venue’s history and community impact. Guests were treated to a four-course spread from The Addison’s award-winning kitchen, live music, and dance. Throughout the night’s festivities, attendees were welcomed to a “Past, Present, and Future” tour to learn more about The Addison’s transformation through the years. The highlight of the evening came when local philanthropists Jim and Marta Batmasian matched a $100,000 donation made by The Addison earlier in the year to local nonprofits. “The Addison has always represented more than a historic venue—it represents the spirit of Boca Raton,” said The Addison Vice President Zoe Lanham. “This centennial celebration was an opportunity to honor our shared past while investing in the future of the community we proudly serve.”
1: Front: Joanna Marie Kaye, Eric Roby, Andrew Hagen, James Batmasian, Marta Batmasian, Zoe Lanham, Tim Snow, Troy McLellan, Cary Reichbach, Kelly Fleming, Haley Winstead, Caryn Teman, Rear: Suzanne Broad, Mary Csar, Janean Mileusnic, Sarah Boeckmann, Bob Tucker, Karla Kannan, Dr. Michael Dobbs, Jason Hagensick
2: County Commissioner Marci Woodward, Zoe Lanham
3: Robin Deyo, Nicole Flier, Shanna St. John, Khrisna Kellerman, Deputy Mayor Fran Nachlas
4: Mary Csar, Troy McLellan, George S. Brown
5: Bruce and Kim Champion
6: The Addison Vice President Zoe Lanham, Boca Raton Chief of Police Michele Miuccio, Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce President Troy McLellan, Deputy Mayor Fran Nachlas
WOMAN VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON
WHERE: The Boca Raton
WHAT: The Junior League of Boca Raton’s annual celebration of the local women making a difference in our community returned for its 38th year. Co-chaired by Namrata Israni and Racheal Petullo and honorary chair Carrie Rubin, the lavish luncheon, which included a stunning runway fashion show by The Boca Raton, welcomed more than 900 guests to honor the Woman Volunteer of the Year, Place of Hope’s Jeannine Morris, who was selected from a field of 40 nominees from area nonprofits. “This is such a distinct honor; there are so many women in this room who volunteer their time endlessly,” Morris said after receiving the award. “It was friendship that brought me to Place of Hope, and it’s friendship that brought all of you here today. So support a friend, support an organization, and through friendship we can absolutely move this community forward.” Sponsors for the event included the Junior League of Boca Raton’s 1971 Society, the Christine E. Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Institute, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation, the James & Marta Batmasian Family Foundation, Boca magazine and more.
1: Woman Volunteer of the Year winner Jeannine Morris, middle, with her supporters from Place of Hope
2: Khris Kellerman, Sarah Doyle, Jennifer Dardano, Jennifer Rosemurgy, Nicole Flier
3: Terry Fedele, Arlene Herson, Vice Mayor Fran Nachlas, Christine Lynn
4: Woman Volunteer of the Year Award nominees
5: Standing: Julie Ott, Maureen Mann, Hilary Rosenthal, Carrie Rubin, Marta Batmasian, Lincoln Mendez, Marie Speed, Brian Altschuler, Matthew Monica, Seated: Pat Thomas, Mark Larkin, Haroula Norden
6: Mark Larkin, Namrata Israni, Racheal Petullo, Jeannine Morris, Victoria Matthews, Maureen Mann, Mayor Scott Singer, Paige Kornblue, Glenn Glazer
WALK OF RECOGNITION
WHERE: The Addison
WHAT: Local luminaries that have had a hand in guiding Boca Raton since the early 2000s were honored at the Boca Raton Historical Society’s Walk of Recognition. On top of the 25 individuals commemorated with a plaque at Royal Palm Place, local philanthropist Marta Batmasian, who founded the Walk of Recognition along with her husband, James, was given a surprise honor of her own star. “I did this for a city that has given us everything the last 43 years,” said Batmasian upon receiving the honor. “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing what you’re doing. Thank you.”
The 25 other honorees were Kathy and Paul Adkins; Angelo Bianco; Barbara Cambia; Mary Csar; Robin Deyo; Jerry Fedele; Summer Faerman; Susan Gillis; Dan Guin and Jane Tyree; Dean Michael Horswell, PhD; Mark Larkin; Zoe Lanham; Troy McLellan; George Petrocelli; Gary Peters; Dr. Jon Robertson; Charlotte and Morris Robinson; Carrie Rubin; Michelle Rubin; The Rev. Andrew Sherman; Tim Snow; and Marie Speed.
6: Marta Batmasian, Dean Michael Horswell, Adam Hasner
TOASTS, TASTES & TROLLEYS
WHERE: Around Boca Raton
WHAT: Supporters of the Boca Raton Historical Society (BRHS) enjoyed a sporty tour through town aboard a vibrant fleet of vintage Molly’s Trolleys. Beginning at The Boca Raton, the trolley tour stopped at five of the city’s top culinary and historical destinations, including Kasumi at the Waterstone Resort, City of Boca Raton Fire Station #3 for a look at Boca’s original 1925 fire engine, and Flagler Credit Union Stadium at Florida Atlantic University. At each stop, riders learned more about the location and its place in Boca history from members of the BRHS committee. Proceeds from the event benefited the BRHS and its mission of preserving and sharing the city’s history. Sponsors included The Boca Raton, Morgan Stanley Harbor Financial, Berman Law Group, Fairman & Associates Inc., Joni and Al Goldberg, and more.
4: Denise Alman, Dawn Zook, Laura Malone, Mary Csar, Lori Saunders
5: Maria Liguori, Tami and Steve Constantine, Joseph Liguori, Andrea Chang
MARCH OF THE BEANS
WHERE: Downtown Boca Raton
WHAT: The annual Boca Raton Bowl game got a brand-new sponsor last year, and it’s clear Bush’s Beans is taking this new role very seriously. As part of Boca Raton’s holiday parade, a band of Bush’s Beans-themed revelers made their way through downtown Boca, accompanied by mascots from top national college football teams. The parade appearance was part of the lead-up to the newly named Bush’s Boca Raton Bowl of Beans, hosted annually at Florida Atlantic University and one of ESPN’s 17 bowl games.
March 2026 issue. Vol. 46 No. 3. The following are trademarks in the state of Florida of Palm Beach Media Group, and any use of these trademarks without the express written consent of Palm Beach Media Group is strictly prohibited: Savor the Avenue; Tastemakers of Delray; Tastemakers at Mizner; Florida Style and Design; Delray Beach magazine; Boca Raton, South Florida At Its Best; bocamag.com; Florida Table; Boca Raton magazine. Boca (ISSN0740-2856) is published 8 times a year (September/October, November/December, January, February, March, April, May/June and July/August) by Palm Beach Media Group. Editorial, advertising and administrative offices: 1000 Clint Moore Road, Suite 103, Boca Raton, FL, 33487. Telephone: 561/9978683. Please address all editorial and advertising correspondence to the above address. Periodicals postage paid at Boca Raton, Fla., and additional mailing offices. Subscriptions: $24.95/8 issues, $34.95/16 issues (shipping fee included for one- and two-year rates). Single copy $6.95. No whole or part of the content may be reproduced in any manner without prior written permission of Boca magazine, excepting individually copyrighted articles and photographs. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Boca magazine, P.O. Box 820, Boca Raton, FL 33429-9943.
GLAZER HALL’s debut season is here, delivering a truly grand experience with a star-studded lineup of unforgettable performances.
MARCH 2026
MARCH 1
Walter Isaacson: The Greatest Sentence Ever Written
MARCH 3
Judy Collins GRAMMY Award® Winner
MARCH 5
The Irish Tenors Irish music, opera, and more.
MARCH 6
Brubeck Brothers Quartet
The sons of jazz legend Dave Brubeck.
MARCH 7
The Marshall Tucker Band
MARCH 14
All Things Equal: The Life & Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
MARCH 15
Masters of Illusion Believe the Impossible
VISIT GLAZERHALL .ORG
MARCH 17
Joan Didion:
The Center Will Not Hold Featuring a Q&A with actor/director Griffin Dunne.
MARCH 18
Splish Splash! The Music of Bobby Darin
MARCH 22
Emmylou Harris 15-time GRAMMY Award® Winner
MARCH 24
Stuart Weitzman: The Man Beyond His Brand A conversation on creative risk-taking with Stuart Weitzman.
MARCH 25
Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood: Asking for Trouble Tour Comedy legends and stars of Whose Line Is It Anyway?
MARCH 27
3 Decades Rewind Relive iconic classic rock hits live!
MARCH 28
The Beach Boys
The iconic American rock band. Two Shows!
MARCH 30
Renée Fleming
An intimate evening of piano and songs. VIP meet and greet available.
APRIL 2026
APRIL 8
Samantha Fish & Tab Benoit Two Tours Collide Tour
APRIL 9
Fran Lebowitz
Author, actor, and public speaker. Interviewed by Paul Shaffer.
APRIL 10
Paul Shaffer & Special Guest Valerie Simpson With the Palm Beach Symphony
Explore Dubai’s vibrant culture and innovative history at landmark sites
Connect with local Jewish community leaders in Dubai
Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a symbol of architectural beauty
Discover interfaith harmony at the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi
Meet Israeli and U.S. ambassadors shaping regional diplomacy
Community Shabbat in Jerusalem
Dialogue with Israeli thought leaders on peace, diplomacy, and regional futures
Private VIP Tour at Museum of Tolerance for the 75 Years of Innovation exhibit Celebrate Israel’s past, present, and future
Contact Jennifer Koenig, JenniferK@jewishboca.org (561) 852-3129 or scan QR code.
A minimum household gift of $18,000 to the 2027 Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Campaign is required to participate.
* Mission programming will begin at noon on October 12
For more information please contact Jennifer Koenig, JenniferK@jewishboca.org (561) 852-3129 or visit: J2ADVENTURES.COM/JOIN/UAEBOCA
A minimum household gift of 18,000$ to the 2027 Jewish Federation of South Palm
South Florida Reimagined, As They Say
The sense of place we shared may be something we only remember now
Written by MARIE SPEED
Ilive in a bubble.
Maybe I always have—in this tiny loop of old houses off A1A across from a Texaco station and two blocks north of Nomad Surf Shop, which has been here since 1968. At the end of our scruffy street is the ocean, which spins off into the Gulf Stream, the Bahamas and, a few 4,000 miles east, the Azores, and then Portugal.
But here, standing on the beach looking at the horizon, you are in a place where you can pretend time has stopped. The beach widens and narrows with the tides and the seasons, reefs emerge and then disappear under a blanket of sand, sea turtles come and go from late spring into early fall. It is a place that makes me restless on one hand because it stays the same—and protected, too, from what I see swirling around us.
When I fell in love with South Florida 35 years ago this month, it was a place of thin and whimsical history mixed with mid-century flamboyance and exotic island culture. A place with a wild heart deep in an endless sawgrass marsh. A place of different worlds strung together by U.S. 1 and I-95, from Gianni Versace’s South Beach to the Fort Lauderdale strip to Boca and Delray and on up the road, the legendary blue blood of them all, Palm Beach. I remember each discovery I made in South Florida: Cuban coffee, wild Quaker parrots, the Guzmania Cathedral in Fakahatchee Strand, Chokoloskee, Gasparilla Island, Blood’s Hammock Groves, Old Cutler Road, the Loxahatchee River.
Of course, other things were also afoot back then;
development never really stopped in this state, and South Florida was no different. I watched Delray’s Atlantic Avenue come alive with a flood of new restaurants and events. Boca added tall condominiums downtown and got a high-speed train station. Miami’s skyline became perpetually broken with soaring construction cranes, year after year. Even West Palm started to bristle into something different as new luxury residential towers shot up along the Intracoastal.
But now is a different story. Was I asleep all these years? Too busy working at my job? When did the South Florida I loved with a passion explode into a bold new marketing slogan?
They call us the “Wall Street of the South” now, and we pay for electronic billboards in Times Square inviting more people to move here. It routinely takes hours now to drive to any place in Miami. The average house price in Delray’s good old Lake Ida now exceeds $1 million; housing costs in Palm Beach are astronomical. My tiny, patched-together cottage with no dishwasher is worth a fortune, but I couldn’t afford to live anywhere else here if I sold it.
Ongoing construction is surging as developers dutifully fill in every remnant plot of green space with luxury homes and subdivisions. The government has slapped a massive detention center in the middle of the Florida Everglades. Roads are bumper to bumper. Strip centers framing intersections spring up overnight. A massive AI data center covering 202 acres (or 150 football fields) is proposed for western Palm Beach County. The average room’s nightly rate for many Key West hotels easily reaches $700 during peak season. The slow southern accent you used to hear now and then has wholly disappeared, replaced by voices from New York or Chicago. And the low rumble of invisible fighter jets provides an ominous background hum every weekend the president is here.
I’m not sure I know South Florida anymore. Or my place in it. I do not know what is left now, as I stand here in my bubble, looking out past the striations of turquoise and deep blue rolling across the Atlantic. There is an uneasy wind from the southwest, and I think of my favorite Faulkner quote: “The past is never dead, it’s not even past.”
So I tell myself once again that everything is fine, it really is. Maybe things will slow down. Maybe South Florida isn’t lost. Maybe we’re safe, at least for now.
