BOCA MAGAZINE NOV/DEC 2025

"The Nutcracker" by Boca Ballet Theatre

Photography – Ian Jacob Studios Hair/Make up – Deborah Koepper Styling – Zlata Kotmina

Spectacular Bvlgari Serpenti Misteriosi

Photography – Ian Jacob Studios Hair/Make up – Deborah Koepper Styling – Zlata Kotmina

In nite inspiration, right on the sand.

YOUR VACATION FROM YOUR VACATION BEGINS HERE.

62

The

Boca

Interview

With Israel at war and antisemitism on the rise, Igor Alterman assumes the reins of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County during a pivotal and complicated time for American Judaism.

Written

by

JOHN THOMASON

The Giving Season

Forget Black Friday door-busters and big-box retailers. Our local nonprofits offer gifts you won’t find anywhere else—with your purchases helping them survive a cash-strapped year.

Written by MARIE SPEED

72

Boca Holiday Happenings

The Palm Beaches are Celebration Central this holiday season, with some two dozen events planned. Our comprehensive guide will keep you entertained from the first tree lighting to the last Hanukkah candle.

Written

by

BRET MARBACH

76

Luxe of the Irish

A 10-day journey to the Emerald Isle marries Ireland’s natural beauty with posh hospitality options— from all-inclusive resorts to stunning castles straight out of“Downton Abbey.”

Written by ANGELA CARAWAY-CARLTON

85

Special Section Florida Style & Design

Top designers share insights on how to employ dramatic patterns and eye-catching color to your living spaces.

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT AND AMANDA MESA 76

28 Editor’s Letter

Conjuring Christmases past and the rituals of the season remind the editor why this really is the most wonderful time of the year.

Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY

31 The Local

Meet the longtime specialist in “book arts” who still has trouble defining his job, and the philanthropic couple whose donations to a Boca nonprofit are reducing hunger for countless individuals. Plus: Salute the retiring steward of the Boca Raton Historical Society, explore locals’ highlights from 2025, and more.

Written by TYLER CHILDRESS, CHRISTIANA LILLY and JOHN THOMASON

40 The Look

From timeless black-and-white to elegant burgundy, these ballroom-ready clothes— and the dazzling accessories to pair with them—bring your holiday season wardrobe within reach.

Photography by CARINA MASK and CHRISTINA MENDENHALL

103 Backstage Pass

Decades since its last curtain call, the former Royal Poinciana Playhouse is set for its second life as Glazer Hall—a $30 million project poised to infuse culture and community into Palm Beach. Plus, explore more than 20 highlights from the 2025-2026 arts calendar—from rare Degas drawings to an Alicia Keys musical to a new era for Miami City Ballet—in our curated season preview.

Written by JOHN THOMASON

169 Florida Table: Eat & Drink

See what our food critic has to say about Boca hot spot Stage and Fort Lauderdale’s Michelin-starred MAASS Chef’s Counter. Plus, local sommeliers uncork their splurge-worthy wines, and meet chocolatiers who can sugarcoat just about anything.

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

198 Social

In this issue’s society pages, the George Snow Scholarship Fund hosted a dreamy fundraiser at The Addison, the Yellow Ribbon Fund raised six figures at a“Gatsby”-themed gala, fearsome foursomes hit the links for HomeSafe, and Boca Helping Hands rolled the dice on a Roaring Twenties fête.

Written by TYLER CHILDRESS

208 Speed Bumps

The Christmas season is no better time to unplug from the chaotic news cycle and reinforce traditions.

Written by MARIE SPEED

ON THE COVER:

New York City Ballet’s Emma Von Enck and Anthony Huxley perform in Boca Ballet Theatre’s 2024 production of “The Nutcracker.” For more holiday happenings, turn to page 72.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Sharon Morgenstern

Web Extras

Visit bocamag.com for bonus items you won’t see anywhere else—extended stories, recipes, news and more.

YES, BUT ARE THEY ART?

The items in the collection of the Jaffe Center for the Book Arts (pg. 38) defy easy categorization. We showcase five of its weirdest objects at bocamag.com/november-december-2025.

WRAPPER’S DELIGHT

What gifts do we at Boca magazine hope to unwrap this holiday season? We teased a few on page 33; read our complete staff picks at bocamag.com/november-december-2025.

“World Without End,” by Julie Chen, from the Jaffe Collection

BOCA MAGAZINE WINS BIG!

At this 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.

WELCOME TO PALM PARADISE

We’ve got more stories to tell, so we’re going where other local lifestyle magazines aren’t venturing—jumping off the page and into your ears with a monthly podcast.

Palm Paradise is an entertaining, thought-provoking and engaging podcast series serving Boca Raton and beyond. We invite you to join us and travel to Palm Paradise, now available on your favorite podcasting platforms and YouTube. Visit bocamag.com/palm-paradise-podcast for more.

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.

GARDEN SHOPS 7050 W PALMETTO PARK RD (AT POWERLINE)

BOCA RATON FL 33433 (561) 447 4117

GARDEN SHOPS 7050 W PALMETTO PARK RD (AT POWERLINE) BOCA RATON FL 33433 (561) 447 4117

GROUP 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

EDITORIAL INTERN

Bret Marbach

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Aaron Bristol, Michael Connor, Carina Mask, Christina Mendenhall

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Caraway-Carlton, Marie Speed, Margie Kaye (promotional writing)

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

Alex Fahmy, Karen S. Kintner, Jenna Russo, Skyler Ruth

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FLORIDA MAGAZINE ASSOCIATION BOCA RATON MAGAZINE WINNERS

2025 CHARLIE AWARDS

CHARLIE AWARD (FIRST PLACE)

best social media

best magazine website

best custom publication (1926)

best use of photography

best feature

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best cover

best public service coverage

best advertorial story or section

SILVER AWARD

best overall magazine

best overall design

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best public service coverage best service feature best department best column best in-depth reporting best custom publication (Worth Avenue)

BRONZE AWARD best overall writing best designed department best department best feature best in-depth reporting

2024 CHARLIE AWARDS

CHARLIE AWARD (FIRST PLACE)

best overall magazine

best overall writing

best feature

best department

best advertorial story or section

best column

best photo essay/series

best custom publication (1926)

SILVER AWARD best feature best public service coverage best custom publication (Worth Avenue) best cover photo best use of photography

BRONZE AWARD best overall design best department best public service coverage best advertorial story or section

2023 CHARLIE AWARDS

CHARLIE AWARD (FIRST PLACE)

best website (bocamag.com)

best custom publication (1926)

SILVER AWARD

best overall magazine

best editorial, opinion, commentary

best department design

best custom publication (Worth Avenue)

best advertorial story or section

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

First issue

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Arts & entertainment

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

Dining guide

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

People

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).

Thoughtfully Coastal

World-Class Neurosurgery Right Here in Boca Raton.

When

every second counts, Marcus Neuroscience Institute is here.

A fall. A sudden headache. A moment of confusion. For many older adults, these are more than just passing symptoms — they can signal a serious brain bleed called a subdural hematoma.

At Marcus Neuroscience Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, part of Baptist Health, patients have access to world-renowned neurosurgeons like Brian Snelling, M.D. , director of cerebrovascular and endovascular neurosurgery and director of the stroke program.

One of the most promising advances in his field is middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization, a minimally invasive procedure that significantly lowers the risk of subdural hematomas returning — often sparing patients from the need for multiple open surgeries. “This approach has been a game-changer for many of our patients, especially older adults on blood thinners,” says Dr. Snelling. “It allows us to treat the problem safely while helping patients recover faster.”

Dr. Snelling and his team are among the most experienced in the nation, with more than seven years of expertise and over 200 MMA embolizations performed. Thanks to a tiny incision in the wrist instead of traditional brain surgery, many patients are able to go home the very same day. This approach is especially safe for older adults and those with fragile health. For patients on blood thinners — whether for heart disease, atrial fibrillation or prior stroke — Dr. Snelling’s method allows medications to be restarted earlier, protecting them from other life-threatening conditions.

Our innovation extends beyond brain bleeds. For patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IH), a condition that can cause severe headaches and vision problems, Marcus Neuroscience Institute offers venous sinus stenting, restoring normal brain pressure and improving quality of life.

The Institute is also proud to be enrolled in multiple national stroke trials, giving patients in Boca Raton early access to promising investigational therapies that could define the future of stroke care.

But advanced medicine is only part of the story. At Marcus Neuroscience Institute, compassion is central to everything we do. “We know how frightening it is when a loved one is facing a brain emergency,” says Dr. Snelling. “I treat every patient as if he or she was a member of my own family — and I want families to feel informed, supported and reassured every step of the way.”

With 24/7 neuro-emergency response, stateof-the-art imaging and a team of experts who care for hundreds of patients each year, Marcus Neuroscience Institute delivers lifesaving care when every second counts — and the peace of mind families need most.

“By 2030, chronic subdural hematoma will be the most common cranial neurosurgical disease — and Marcus Neuroscience Institute is leading the way in treating it.”

Brian Snelling, M.D. Director of Cerebrovascular and Endovascular Neurosurgery Director of Stroke Program Marcus Neuroscience Institute

Dr. Brian Snelling is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon specializing in subdural hematomas, aneurysms, strokes, AVMs and complex surgical diseases of the brain and spine. He is an expert in catheter-based procedures performed through the wrist, which enhance patient safety and speed recovery.

Before joining Marcus Neuroscience Institute in 2018, Dr. Snelling completed his neurosurgery residency and fellowship at Jackson Memorial Hospital and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

Fluent in English and conversational in Spanish, Dr. Snelling has trained hundreds of surgeons worldwide, published extensively and presented at major neurosurgical conferences.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Snelling, call 561-955-4600.

A Quiet Place

Take stock of the laid-back moments between the full calendar dates

Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY

t’s officially my favorite time of the year. I anxiously await the day I can pull out our Christmas decorations, and I thrive off the marathon of holiday parties, shopping, gift giving, and clinking our glasses as a toast to the year. I’ll think about the weddings I attended, family gatherings, concerts with friends, home improvement projects and wins at work, making an effort to not focus on the lows that we experienced in 2025.

I get it—for an introvert, this probably sounds like Dante’s journey through the circles of hell. Like an introvert, though, some of the highlights of the holiday season are those moments of quiet. The pockets of time that buffer the raucousness while also becoming annual traditions we don’t think about until they’re happening.

Like when the family is laid out on the couch after indulging in a Thanksgiving meal. Half of the dinner crew is snoozing while the other half watches football, debating whether they’re brave enough to shuffle to the kitchen for another bite of stuffing or corn bread. Or after a day of shopping, sitting at my dinner table to wrap gifts and carefully handwrite the recipient’s name on a sticker. I think about which wrapping paper or gift bag I’ll use from my arsenal while the sounds of old-school Christmas carols play from YouTube.

Or those moments after work, curled up on the couch and enjoying the lights on the Christmas tree illuminating the ornaments we’ve collected over the years. Since we don’t have a fireplace, I go back to YouTube for a video of a crackling fire (I don’t go as far as turning the air down; that’s crazy talk). It reminds me of the days I did live in a colder climate, and my dad would show me how to stuff the crumpled-up newspaper under the logs to keep the fire roaring.

There’s the pre-party preparation when I mix up a batch of coquito—a better, Puerto Rican take on eggnog that my friend first made for me at my first newspaper job (rum, coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and a stick of cinnamon poured into a reused clear wine bottle, preferably). Or filling the house with the smell of spiked apple cider cooking on the stove.

Then on Christmas day, if we’re lucky enough to be with family, after all the gifts have been opened, we sit in a pool of wrapping paper and ribbon. Today, it’s perfectly acceptable to eat sugar cookies at 9 in the morning. I’ll flip through a book recommendation from my brother. My mom will be itching to clean up the mess, and my dad will convince her it can wait a few more minutes. At some point, a kid will need help unlocking their toys from nine layers of twist ties and plastic, the thick kind that requires the heavy-duty scissors from deep within the junk drawer. If there’s a baby during the holidays, we laugh at how they’re having more fun with a box than with its contents.

In this issue, we help prepare you for the holiday season, however you celebrate it. Our editor emeritus, Marie Speed, explores the different ways you can give back by giving this holiday season (pg. 62); if you’re looking for a meaningful stocking stuffer, a gift for coworkers or the gift of experience, she’s found local nonprofits that create meaningful gifts that help keep the doors open. If it’s the gift of travel, check out Angela Caraway-Carlton’s journey to Ireland (pg. 76), where she embarked on a whirlwind tour of five resorts throughout the Emerald Isle. Whether you seek a storied castle or a modern hotel, one of these will surely speak to you. There’s also plenty of locals to meet this issue, too, people who are making a difference not just at the tail-end of the year, but every month. Finally, our extensive Season Preview (pg. 103) will have you prepared for a new season of ballet, live music, exhibits, plays and other artistic showings. Happy holidays, and remember to soak up those quiet moments.

CARINA MASK

A rare opportunity. A remarkable lifestyle. Life at The Edge exceeds expectations. A sunrise drive along the coast.

A perfect round beneath bright blue skies. Time to recharge and reach for new horizons. Evenings here culminate with anticipation –chef-prepared meals, exceptional wine and the company of those who share your drive.

With rare availability of one-bedroom residences, now is the time to experience the edge a luxurious retirement lifestyle affords – only at Harbour’s Edge.

Don’t Miss Events

THE TEQUILA FESTIVAL

WHEN: Nov. 8 from 4 to 10 p.m. at Mizner Park Amphitheater

WHAT: New name, same tequila-fueled fun. The festival celebrates the craft spirit with neat pours, cocktails, live music and DJs, a bartender competition and food pop-ups from some of your favorite area restaurants. Proceeds benefit True Hospitality Community. thetequilafest.com

Locals sound off on issues affecting our community.

MEDICINE & SURGERY DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR

WHEN: Nov. 12 at Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum

WHAT: A part of the museum’s programming to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, a talk with Robert Feeney about battlefield medicine. bocahistory.org

SAVOR BOCA RATON, A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

WHEN: Dec. 6 in downtown Boca Raton

WHAT: A salute to Boca’s 100th anniversary with cuisine, community and collaboration. The event includes a scavenger hunt through Mizner Park and a tasting tour with decade-themed cocktails. Proceeds benefit the Brain Bowl. savorboca.com

BOCA RATON BOWL

WHEN: Dec. 23 at FAU’s Flagler Credit Union Stadium

Put on your football jerseys for Boca’s biggest sporting event! Last year, the James Madison Dukes were victorious in a close game, and tailgate parties and event planning is already underway. bocaratonbowl.com

Check out holiday happenings in Boca Raton and beyond on page 72.

When you look back at 2025, what will be the highlight of the year?

“When I look back on 2025, the highlight will be the relationships I’ve built and the impact I’ve witnessed—seeing our community come together to support those in need has been truly inspiring. Holocaust Survivor Day was truly unforgettable. Seeing 200 survivors come together for lunch, share their stories and celebrate life was deeply moving. We even had five centenarians!”

— Alana St. John, director of development at Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services

“This has been an amazing year. Looking back, I’m proud of the impact we’ve made in our community, especially through our partnerships with Place of Hope and Florida Atlantic Athletics. As a family with young children, it’s important to show them what it means to connect, give back and help build something meaningful.”

— Jesse Rack, CEO of RACK Electric

“The highlight of 2025 was co-founding and launching WHISTLE, a power community for global leaders of Caribbean heritage to grow capital, community and legacy. At the same time, watching my daughter begin her own new chapter at college made this year unforgettable—both are moments about legacy, impact and the futures we’re building.”

— Stacey Luces, co-founder and Chief Purpose Officer of We Are Whistle Inc.

Sips at the Tequila Festival

OUR WISH LIST

CHRISTIANA LILLY, editor in chief

“As someone who talks with her hands, I usually avoid bracelet stacks at work, since they can be distracting during meetings or while working at my desk. BuDhaGirl all-weather bracelets are the best of both worlds—a fashionable wrist stack that doesn’t clang around!”

$135 for set of nine;

MICHELLE OLSON-ROGERS, family reporter

“I am dabbling in pickleball (like most Boca residents) but am missing a really good shoe for the courts. I’ve decided that I play better when I look good— ha! I found these gorgeous sneakers from Cypher Pickleball and just need to decide on a color. Cloud White feels safe, but the Cool Mint is pretty tempting. … Whoever is gifting them can surprise me!”

$139.99, cypherpick-

NICOLE RUTH, director of advertising and marketing

“The AXV Vibration Plate Fitness Platform Exercise Machine is an excellent option for a quick and effective workout. It supports vibrating lymphatic drainage through full-body movement, helping to boost circulation and assist with weight loss and fat burning. You can use it anytime, whether you’re watching TV or listening to music with headphones.”

$94.99, amazon.com

JOHN THOMASON, managing/A&E editor

“The ‘John Lennon and Yoko Ono: Power to the People Box Set’ 12-disc box set includes nine CDs and three Blu-ray discs capturing the two ‘One to One’ concerts in Madison Square Garden, plus new mixes of Lennon’s ‘New York City’ album, home-recorded demos, and studio and live jams, plus a 204-page book, posters, postcards, stickers, replica tickets, a VIP backstage pass and more wonderful ephemera.” $240, store.johnlennon.com

Write This Down

More than 1.3 billion holiday cards are sent this time of year, meaning it’s time for an annual reminder of how to properly sign them from your family.

Hint: If you’re tempted to use an apostrophe, don’t!

• Merry Christmas from the Smiths

• Happy Hanukkah from the Schwartzes

• Happy Holidays from the Joneses

• Love, the Daleys

When in doubt, you can always go the easiest route:

Happy New Year from the Smith Family.

CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT, food editor

“It’s a real splurge, but the Zalto wine glasses are incredibly beautiful and make every sip feel special. They are crafted by glassmakers who uphold the revered tradition of glass blowing, making them also works of art.” $255 to $345 for set of six; zaltoglas.at/en/ products

ALEX FAHMY, sales rep

“A knife set is a great Christmas gift, because it’s something you’ll actually use and appreciate every day. Grilling and cutting a nice piece of steak with a good set is a game-changer and very enjoyable!”

$130, williams-sonoma.com

WEB EXTRA: See our team’s entire holiday wish list at bocamag.com/ november-december-2025.

BOCA BY THE NUMBERS

1863

Year Thanksgiving became a national holiday

1,600

Population of Christmas, FL

44 Candles lit over eight days of Hanukkah

7 Days of Kwanzaa

“THE CITY IN THE CITY IN THE CITY”

WHEN: Nov. 9-23

WHERE: Theatre Lab at FAU, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton

COST: $35-$60

CONTACT: 561/297-6124, fauevents.com

So nice he named it thrice, playwright Matthew Capodicasa’s world-premiere work “The City in the City in the City” abounds in mystery, theatricality and invention—qualities that have long attracted Theatre Lab Artistic Director Matt Stabile. It follows the journey of two strangers linked by mortality and fate: Tess had planned a trip with her mother to an ancient city-state to retrieve a package left for them by Tess’s estranged father. When Mom dies, Tess creates a Craigslist ad seeking a person of her mother’s exact name to join her on the odyssey, which takes both women to a borderless land where monastic cheese, octogenarian crooners and ancient graves only begin to unveil an expansive world of myth and wonder in which two actors— Vaishnavi Sharma and Niki Fridh—will portray more than 30 eclectic roles.

DAVID BYRNE

WHEN: Dec. 5-6, 8 p.m.

WHERE: Fillmore Miami Beach, 1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach COST: $108.50 and up

CONTACT: 305/673-7300, fillmoremb.com

In the music video for “Everybody Laughs,” the frolicsome lead single of singer-songwriter David Byrne’s new album “Who is the Sky?,” the silver-haired vocalist quickly disappears into an ensemble of actors doing what city dwellers do: dancing, protesting, eating at restaurants and taking photos of their food and, in one of Byrne’s more memorable lyrics,“going through the garbage, looking for inspiration.” Byrne’s decision to blend in with his multicultural rabble speaks to his egalitarian approach to music and art. As on his album-turned-Broadway production “American Utopia,” which saw a dozen roving musicians playing and moving to joyous choreography, the Talking Heads frontman’s latest release features plenty of help, including from the Ghost Train Orchestra, a 12-piece avant-jazz ensemble. Its accompanying tour, marking Byrne’s first South Florida appearance since 2018, features 13 musicians, singers and dancers fusing visual art, storytelling and music.

BILL MURRAY AND HIS BLOOD BROTHERS

WHEN: Dec. 7, 7 p.m.

WHERE: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale

COST: $64.31-$360

CONTACT: 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

Music has never been far from Bill Murray’s diverse show-business career. His hilariously tone-deaf “Nick the Lounge Singer” helped put “Saturday Night Live” on the map in the 1970s; his character’s rousing karaoke rendition of Roxy Music’s glam-rock classic “More Than This” was a highlight of “Lost in Translation;” and he’s long performed alongside a classical trio. This latest venture finds the actor exploring yet another sonic avenue, as a singer and musician in a crackerjack blues-rock outfit. His “Blood Brothers” include Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia, guitarists with a collective 14 Blues Music Awards; and Jimmy Vivino, former bandleader for Conan O’Brien. Their material includes Zito/Castiglia originals and groovy covers from Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Prince and more, interpreted with Murray’s trademark combination of reverence and flamboyance.

“TIMELESS MUCHA: THE MAGIC OF LINE”

WHEN: Nov. 19-March 11

WHERE: Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton

COST: $16 general admission, $12 seniors

CONTACT: 561/392-2500, bocamuseum.org

It is often the great artist’s burden to be appreciated posthumously. Such is the legacy of Czech master Alphonse Mucha, whose pioneering contributions to the turn-of-the-century Art Nouveau movement were most appreciated after his 1939 death. Today, with their pastel colors, elegant arches, billowing forms and flower-power aesthetic, Mucha is recognized as a master influencer on generations of artists, from the psychedelic art of the 1960s to American graphic novels and Japanese manga.“Timeless Mucha” traces connections between the artist’s lithographs and rock posters, comic book illustrations and more.

Mike Zito, Bill Murray, Jimmy Vivino and Albert Castiglia

David Byrne

“Reverie” by Alphonse Mucha

We learn something new every day, and there’s always something going on that’s different, and it’s very energizing, and it keeps your mind going, and you want to learn more all the time.”

—Mary Csar

Mary Csar

After nearly 30 years preserving our city’s history, the executive director of the Boca Raton Historical Society is retiring

Written by CHRISTIANA LILLY

Born and raised in Monticello—a part of Florida that has you officially in “the South”— Mary Csar’s high school and church were built before the Civil War. So when she arrived in Boca Raton in 1978, the ‘20s architecture was like drinking from the Fountain of Youth. Still, she was eager to embrace her new home. “I knew that the minute I got here, I told myself, I’m gonna make this my hometown,” she says. “I really felt that way.”

After raising her family, joining a litany of organizations and leading the Boca Raton Historical Society, Csar is retiring as director after 27 years.“I wanted to get through the centennial,” she says.“This is an important year. It was also a capstone of a career.”

It all started when Anne Merrill, the former executive director of the society, invited Csar to a membership tea at the home of Jamie Snyder, who would found the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency. Csar joined the society and never looked back. She also joined the Junior League of Boca Raton (eventually serving as president), served on the Downtown Advisory Committee, and worked at the CRA. This was all during a period of change in Boca Raton—there was a development for a place called Mizner Park, and residents were vehemently split on the plans.“I was taking the notes at the meeting when they decided to call it Mizner Park,” she remembers.“It was an interesting time.”

For four years, Csar worked at the National Cartoon Museum. Then, she was hired part-time by the historical society as it prepared to celebrate its 25th anniversary. When the director left in 1999, Csar was selected to take over. At the time, she was the only full-time staff member; she worked alongside a part-time office manager and facilities manager and a volunteer archivist. The society is still a small and mighty team, but now with five full-time employees.

Then came the $1 million donation from the Schmidt Family Foundation—the largest in the society’s history. The funds created the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, and the donation also allowed for new display areas, exhibits, and utilizing the historic council chamber as a gathering space and a research library. The new digs were ready in time for an important milestone: the 100th anniversary of Boca Raton’s incorporation. For the last two years, the society has worked with the city to prepare while also fielding countless queries from local and regional media. Even with a small team, they were able to nimbly satisfy photo and information requests; Csar credits her colleague, curator Sue Gillis, for spending a decade archiving and organizing the museum’s photographs and artifacts.

With her tenure ending in December, Csar has no plans to leave Boca Raton, and you’re sure to see her around—in a volunteer capacity, like she did at the beginning. After all, next year is America’s 250th birthday.“I’ve got to be here to come to all the programs,” she says.

HER FIRST GIG: I started helping with the tours of [The Boca Raton], because that was their first program. A lot of the ladies from the historical society that I remember so vividly are the ones who worked on the restoration of town hall, and they worked on the [train] depot, and they were just very dynamic and “let’s get it done” type people.

This page is a tribute to community citizens who have demonstrated exemplary service and leadership to the city of Boca Raton and is in memory of John E. Shuff.

There have been ups and downs, from recessions to celebrations. Csar led the society through the sale of the old train depot for $2.1 million; those earnings went toward a major renovation project. However, it was a bigger feat than planned, when they discovered disintegrated plumbing, foundation and electrical work. Thankfully, the City of Boca Raton provided a $650,000 grant and later a $590,000 reimbursement for repairs.“[The project] was a lot bigger than we thought, and I had to go back to the city twice. That was hard. And I understand the city’s position. I really, really did, but on the other hand, we really needed this to work.”

PRESERVING HISTORY: I hand it really to our early founders, who immediately started collecting artifacts. Everything in the Pioneer Room is from Boca Raton. We were actively collecting artifacts, and from the very beginning, we were actively a very academic institution. FAU was here. Dr. Donald Curl was one of our early members. He was a history professor, so he wrote wonderful “Spanish River Papers” [newsletters for members focusing on historical themes and eras — Ed.] that were sent out. Yeah, the members and he really got us on the right track. … We were lucky to have early archivists who were good, even though they were volunteers.

STORIES FROM THE PAST: My grandmother from Alabama lived in the same town, and she told stories about her life in Alabama all the time. Southerners love to tell stories, and so I grew up with those stories. Heritage and that kind of thing were always just part of me.

Mary Csar

If there’s some kind of border between traditional books and weirdness, we have one foot along each side of that border.”

— John Cutrone

Page Turner

Twenty-five years after its founding, the Jaffe Center for the Book Arts is keeping FAU weird

Written by JOHN THOMASON

After 24 years with FAU’s Jaffe Center for the Book Arts, its director, John Cutrone, still has trouble defining his workplace. Though it resides on the fifth floor of the university’s Wimberly Library, the Jaffe Center is not a lending institution, and it’s not an art gallery. You could say it occupies a nebulous space between them, and it invariably confounds and excites those who discover it.

“We’ve always been kind of an underdog. It’s hard to explain what we are,” Cutrone says.“If there’s some kind of border between traditional books and weirdness, we have one foot along each side of that border.”

A shorthand definition is that the Jaffe collection is comprised of books as aesthetic objects—as Cutrone puts it,“books that are collected more for their aesthetic qualities and not necessarily for their informational qualities.”This descriptor allows for a vast range of objects, from humble pop-up books; to a “Slinky book” by performance artist Susan Joy Share, whose “pages” expand and contract like an accordion; to Angela Lorenz’s “Soap Story,” a six-page soap opera silkscreened on linen pages literally encased in soap.

Cutrone points to Daniel E. Kelm’s “Metamorphic Book” as the piece that most challenges our traditional idea of a book: A construction project that first resembles a foldable dressing screen and then transforms into squares, hexagons and other mathematical shapes, the work has no words or pictures.“One thing we use to define a book here in this space, because it can be so outlandish, is that it has sequence,” Cutrone says.“Think about any basic book, say a dictionary or a phone book. You turn the pages, and there’s sequence there.”Yet some pieces in the collection—an altered book in which the pages are glued together, rendering it an inert sculpture—defy this parameter. Cutrone enjoys rigorously debating the “bookness” of such selections with Jaffe Center visitors.

One audience favorite, Jessica Poor’s “Pharmacy of Crippling Hope,” presents as a prescription pill container. The “book” begins with the text on the faux-pharmacy label: “Take as many pills as you want, you are still going to die.”The “story” continues with the pill capsules inside, which contain tiny messages on inkjet strips that readers can explore in any order. “When Arthur was here on a daily basis, people would say, ‘I think Arthur left his medicine on the shelf,’” Cutrone says, referring to Arthur Jaffe, the late book connoisseur who formed the institution in 1998 when he and his wife, Mata, gave 2,800 pieces to FAU.

and a rapid-fire gallery talk in which he explored 25 artist books in 75 minutes. The collection continues to grow, surpassing 6,000 works, which Cutrone builds through book-arts discussion groups, book-arts dealers, artist book fairs, individual sellers and word of mouth.

Cutrone could scarcely have predicted the resurgence in book arts in the 21st century—part of an overall interest in analog technologies that includes vinyl records and darkroom photo development. In addition to the collection, the Jaffe Center hosts workshops at its on-site Letterpress Studio, Bindery and Paper Lab, cultivating the old ways of printing and bookbinding to eager young pupils. When he’s not running the Jaffe Center, Cutrone co-operates Convivio Bookworks, a book-arts studio and shop in Lake Worth Beach that likewise spreads the gospel of physical bookmaking.

“It’s this hard-to-explain paradox in which, along with the rise of digital technology, has come this rise and interest in the analog book, and how to make these books,” Cutrone says.“There are more and more students involved in bookmaking now, and they’re all creating. We’re making sure they get into the collection as well.

“It should not be a stagnant place. It should be a place that continues to grow along with the world of the book arts.”

John Cutrone

MICHAEL

The Seafarer,

Jason Nuttle Photography

All Buttoned Up

For the neutral palette, we turn to accessories with flair.

Necklace, $63; from Wish and Shoes

CULT GAIA bag, $528, JIMMY CHOO pumps, $1,095; from Saks Boca Raton

WALTER BAKER top, $198, and skirt, $198; both from Walter Baker

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Flash of Whimsy

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Ivory and rhinestone bag, $120, BC BAGS gold beaded bag, $168, evil eye clutch, $299, pearl earrings, $54; all from House of Sherrida

ALEXIS BITTAR necklace, $595; from Barbara Katz

PELLE MODA sandal, $165, CENTRAL PARK WEST top, $173; both from Wish & Shoes

JIMMY CHOO pearl and leather clutch, $1,095; from Saks Boca Raton

CARINA MASK/ CHRISTINA MENDENHALL

CENTRAL PARK

WEST top, $160; from Wish & Shoes

WALTER BAKER leather pants, $798, WALTER BAKER calf hair bag, $448; from Walter Baker

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN belt, $650, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN shoes, $1,495; from Saks Boca Raton

Seeing Red

We’re digging red bottoms, from our shoes to our pants.

CARINA MASK/ CHRISTINA MENDENHALL

YSL

BARBARA KATZ sweater, $128, leopard print belt, $180, REMI/REID clutch, $130; all from Barbara Katz

pumps, $1,050, CHLOE bag, $2,690; both from Saks Boca Raton

MALAPARMI gold beaded belt, $235; from Filly & Colt

FINLEY dress, $378, PINK CHICKEN girls dress, $80; both from Barbara Katz Necklace, $42, from Wish and Shoes

HOUSE OF FLORENCE crossbody bag, $275, PAPUCEI boots, $325; both from Filly & Colt

We Go Together

Enter every soiree with style while matching with your little one.

CARINA MASK/ CHRISTINA MENDENHALL

A Helping Hand

Bob and Anita Kriensky are putting Thanksgiving meals on the tables of local underserved families

Written by TYLER CHILDRESS

When Anita Kriensky began volunteering with Boca Helping Hands (BHH) in early 2016, she quickly shed her preconceptions of what food insecurity looks like.

“Even if they drive up in a Mercedes, that still means that they can have food insecurity,” says Anita, who, alongside her husband, Bob, have sponsored four of the nonprofit’s Thanksgiving Box Brigade programs that provide holiday turkey dinners with all the fixings to families in need. This year will mark their fifth as sponsors of the program.

An ethos of“To whom much is given, much is required”is at the core of the Krienskys’ philanthropy.“We’ve been blessed, truly blessed,”says

The Krienskys have the rare designation as BHH platinum donors for contributing more than $100,000 to the organization. These funds have benefited the nonprofit’s numerous critical services, including job training, food programs, health care assistance, mentorship and much more. The goal of BHH’s myriad programs— which service more than 35,000 clients per year—is for its beneficiaries to become self-sufficient. This mission resonates deeply with Bob, who has been supporting himself since the age of 15.

As a sophomore in high school, Bob was forced to leave home and make his own way with no family support.“I had a definite difference of opinion with my dad, who people had

[With Boca Helping Hands], you see the people, you meet the people that it’s benefiting, and it’s in your community, which makes your community stronger.”

Bob.“We understand where we are and what we have, and so we seek to help others.”

The Krienskys have been supporting BHH almost since they first landed in Boca in 2015, both retiring from lucrative careers in Los Angeles; Bob in real estate and Anita in luxury interior design. “We looked at 90 houses in Florida, and we ended up here in Boca,”says Bob.“It’s a great community to be part of, and we fell in love with it.”

Anita first became aware of Boca Helping Hands through a neighbor while looking at ways to get more involved in the community. She began distributing hot meals to the nonprofit’s clients, and Bob soon became involved, volunteering his time at the warehouse. The couple were inspired by the dedication of BHH’s volunteers and the tangible difference they witnessed as a result of their efforts.

“A lot of times you give, you write a check, and you don’t really know how it’s changing people’s lives; you don’t see it,” says Bob. But with Boca Helping Hands, Anita says,“you see the people, you meet the people that it’s benefiting, and it’s in your community, which makes the community stronger.”

called the toughest guy they had ever met,” says Bob.“My dad refused to fund anything and refused to allow my mother to fund anything. … I had no real resources at the time.”

Bob took up several jobs to support himself as he finished high school and college before completing his education and leaving his home in Boston for Los Angeles after the historic blizzard of 1978.“I said, ‘I’ll never hold a snow shovel again,’” says Bob. But it was another vow, taken years before, that still informs his philanthropic spirit today.

At his bar mitzvah, a 13-year-old Bob stood at the pulpit of his synagogue and made a speech of what he hoped would define the rest of his life.“I recall saying that I want to leave this Earth a little bit better than when I came into it,” recalls Bob.“And that’s a tough job right there, but I’m going to try …

“Everyone doing a little bit, I think, will make a big difference, so we’re trying to do our bit to try and make this a better place.”

To learn more about Boca Helping Hands or to donate, visit bocahelpinghands.org.

Bob and Anita Kriensky

CARINA MASK

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Written by JOHN THOMASON

ALTERM ALTERM

With Judaism facing perilous headwinds worldwide, the president of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County continues to keep the faith.

gor Alterman just couldn’t quit South Florida.

From 2022 to early 2025, the nonprofit executive spent three fruitful years as president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas—a momentous period in which he broke fundraising campaigns, enhanced the organization’s digital footprint, and rallied the Jewish community in the aftermath of Oct. 7, 2023. But Alterman, who had spent seven years prior as the executive director, and ultimately CEO, of University of Miami Hillel,

couldn’t ignore the siren call of the Sunshine State. So when a recent leadership opportunity arose at the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, he didn’t hesitate to apply.

His family“just loves South Florida,”he says.“There are certain things that you miss when you move from one location to another, and those are the ones that are intangible. It’s even the humidity on the street that kind of wraps you around it. It’s the radio ads that you hear. It’s the things you cannot buy. So we knew that eventually we would like to make our way back to what we now call home, and for us, that’s South Florida.”

This past February, Alterman began

his tenure at the largest Jewish campus in North America. The Federation’s 100 acres support an ecosystem that hosts three schools, the Levis Jewish Community Center, the Jewish Association for Residential Care, Ruth and Norman Rales Jacobson Food Pantry and more. No other Jewish Federation branch, Alterman says, offers so much service and support under one umbrella, which is why he refers to the Federation as “the central address for Jewish life in the Greater Boca Raton area.” In this interview with Boca magazine, he shares his story, reflects on the Federation’s role in the community, and addresses issues affecting Judaism here and abroad.

AN AN

What was your earliest memory of being Jewish?

I was born and raised in the Soviet Union in the early ‘80s, and then raised in the former Soviet Union and Russia. And to be frank with you, my earliest memory of being Jewish was a negative one. I was probably in early middle school. My parents, at the time, changed our last name, which you know me under Alterman, to a much more Russian-sounding last name to protect me and my sister from a very institutionalized and deep antisemitism that has been present there. And I started getting bullied for being Jewish. And I learned that my father did not get a job that he was supposed to get because of his ancestry. So that was my first exposure to Jewish life. Similarly to many Russian Jewish families, we tried to lower our profile. And then later on, I got involved when I was in high school and early years of college, and that became a much more positive experience.

So your family was culturally Jewish more than faith-based?

Definitely culturally Jewish—very much assimilated as a family. I knew that my great-grandparents spoke Yiddish. I knew that the names of my grandparents sounded Jewish. So we knew that that was a part

of our culture and our tradition, but it was very much diluted by the oppressive and dictatorial regime of the Soviets.

What led you to ultimately running Jewish Federations?

My now wife, then girlfriend, got me involved with Jewish life in our hometown, the city of Bryansk, Russia. I became involved with Hillel, which is the largest Jewish student organization in the world, and it had a chapter in our hometown. And as I got involved, that’s where it was a much more positive experience, because it was a chance for me to get involved and learn and understand what Judaism actually means.

I then studied in Israel. Then I got my master’s degree in New York City … in Jewish Education and Jewish Nonprofit Management. And with that background, there are different routes that you can go, but predominantly you run Jewish nonprofits.

My first step here in America was to work at Cornell Hillel. I then spent 12 years at different Hillels around the country, and most recently, before moving to Dallas, it was eight years at the University of Miami Hillel, where … we tried to create a model which would serve as a magnet for Jewish engagement in a densely

Above and below, Alterman with community members from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County

populated Jewish area to make sure that our impact far exceeded the boundaries of Coral Gables as a campus.

After eight years there, I was thinking about my next steps. And in our world, there are only so many directions we can choose, and Federations were one of them. And it just so happened that Dallas was searching for a new executive director. Dallas was rapidly changing; similarly to South Florida, it’s growing by leaps and bounds. People are moving there, and they wanted to bring their Federation into the 21st century. So they needed somebody who could facilitate that change. And I agreed to do that.

The experience that I got there, the opportunity, the understanding of the system, the impact of its work, were invaluable. But when I saw that this position opened [in Boca Raton], and that the parameters of what they were looking for matched my interests, we knew immediately that that would be something we would pursue.

What role does the Federation play in the local Jewish community?

Federation is a central convener on behalf of the Jewish community. We are like the beating heart—the central nerve that works on the benefit of the entire community, agnostic of people’s personal choices. They can be secular, they can be Orthodox, they can be reform. They can be religious, they can be cultural, they can be whatever they want to be and find themselves on the spectrum if they identify or support diversity, inclusion and Jewish life.

I’ll give you a few examples. We are very fortunate in South Florida to have very strong Jewish education. So Federation offers tuition assistance to parents that want to send their children to Jewish day schools, or Jewish summer camps, sleepaway camps or JCCs. Federation invests. We’re one of the largest nonprofits in the area. On an annual basis, we invest millions of dollars, and that’s not an exaggeration, into the local community. We truly, truly believe that in order for us to be a good citizen of the community, we need to look at the community as a whole. So when we invest, for example, in Jewish Family Services with our annual allocations, their work far

exceeds the Jewish community. As a matter of fact, in certain areas of their work, most of their clients are not Jewish, and we are proud to support their work. The same goes for the JCCs and other very small and large nonprofits, synagogues, summer camps and university campuses who work deeply with FAU. We support some of the colleges outside of our primary catchment area that are in Florida.

We also see ourselves as a concierge in a way. So if you’re a young family or if you’re just moving to the area, we want to help you. We want to hook you up with the Realtors, the doctors, the lawyers, whatever you may need, so that there is a funnel, and we are that place for you to feel a part of the community.

Did you find the Boca Raton Jewish infrastructure to be more ingrained than it was in Dallas?

To clarify, we are working in Delray/High-

land Beach as well. South Palm Beach County is our primary catchment area. But truly, we are the Jewish broker. This is who we are. This is where the core of our community lives. This is where the infrastructure, as you refer to it, is. We are one of the largest Jewish communities in the country, which means, realistically, in the world—in North America, at least. And I would say that we’re very blessed with the fact that we see a lot of people migrating to South Florida. Many of them are Jewish, specifically because of the existing infrastructure. We have education, we have synagogues. We have opportunities for individuals that require special attention, whether this is mental health or special needs. We have highly rated senior living facilities, Sinai Residences being one of them, which the Federation has built on behalf of the community. So this is unparalleled.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Shifting to some of the issues affecting Judaism, Boca Raton has not been immune from rising antisemitic incidents in recent years. Where is the Boca

Jewish community now in terms of antisemitic threats? How safe do our residents feel?

This is a very important subject. It’s not the one to take lightly, and we know it. In the

JEWISH FEDERATION OF SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY BY THE NUMBERS

70+

Local and international partner agencies supported by the Federation

664

Households that have received food assistance through the Food Pantry 360

Holocaust survivors who received case management services through the Federation

784

Individuals who received affordable behavioral care services

1,550

Seats filled by young adults at local Shabbat dinners

100

Holocaust survivors and teens who learned side by side, in a program to pass the torch of memory

past years, the Jewish community in North America is spending close to $800 million on security. It’s close to a billion bucks that is spent on protecting the community from hate. We can only imagine what this money could do if it were sent to the social services, education, culture, etc.

Antisemitism is very real. Antisemitism is ugly, and unfortunately, you can only learn things through your lived experiences. And I was born and raised in a country where it was institutionalized—where antisemitism was synonymous with the government, synonymous with the streets, synonymous with the town square. We cannot allow for that to happen in America. It has been, for decades, immune to it, or at least it took it very seriously. And unfortunately, right now, what we see statistically [is the] FBI just came out with their annual report, and it’s clear that Jews— just 2% of the American population—are the most targeted minority in this country, period. There is a perception of safety, and then there is actual safety. We work day and night with law enforcement. Whether it’s the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, which is amazing, our federal partners and our local partners, we have developed a full security arm within Federation to ensure that each and every Jewish nonprofit, and there are about 60 of them locally here within our specific catchment, are provided with security assessments. We advocate for FEMA security grants, which we are very successful at getting. We brought in over $1.5 million last year to harden the security in the agencies. We are providing our own allocations to make sure they are able to get cameras, they’re able to get staff, they’re able to get software licenses that will allow them to be safer.

I’m knocking on wood here, but compared to some other parts of the country, South Florida is definitely a much more welcoming environment for the Jewish community. But we have to be absolutely alert and vigilant as it comes to security, because it’s not something to take lightly.

In terms of combating it, I don’t know if re-education is the right word, but taking people that have these beliefs and transforming them … is that something that’s on the table? We’ve been deeply invested in Holocaust

From left, April Leavy, Jill Rose and Alterman at the Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration in Israel in May 2025

education—in proactive work on campuses or high schools or middle schools or elementary schools, even. Our partners at ADL have No Place For Hate, a program that is national. There is an organization that we fund called inSIGHT, and it works with the Palm Beach County School District. They are deeply, deeply involved with Holocaust education, but it spills over into other forms of hate and where it can lead to. We are taking educators to Poland on a version of March of the Living; we are showing them the concentration camps and what transpired, with an opportunity to travel to Israel afterwards.

So we are deeply engaged in ways of educating the community, on different levels, on the dangers of antisemitism. But I will also admit I think we are in a crisis, because many people are trying to whitewash antisemitism with their own definitions that suit their political needs, and that leads us to a very challenging place where the community feels unsafe, and we see a deep, deep rise of antisemitism that currently is masqueraded by anti-Zionism. Because somehow it became acceptable to substitute and call yourself an anti-Zionist, but essentially spew out hate against the Jewish community.

You mentioned the Holocaust. There are commentators with audiences in the millions who are platforming Holocaust denialism or even just Holocaust skepticism. Did you ever think you’d see a time when Holocaust skepticism was not the third rail that it used to be?

No. I think revisionism in general is a huge issue. Social media is a massive problem. And I think the federal government has to take responsibility on ensuring that the benefits of social media exist, but there need to be also standards that those companies should be held accountable for. For the first time in generations, American Jews are feeling uncomfortable—are feeling that things have changed as it relates to the social contract between the Jewish community and the society at large. There has been a dramatic shift, in whether it is domestic terrorism, or whether there are influences that are brought from outside. But we have to

“People seek belonging. They want to make sure that they are a part of something, especially in times that we’re living through right now. And Federation works deeply in building community.”

Alterman

be vigilant in making sure that no hate puts root in our society. Because unfortunately, as we all know, Jews are usually the canary in the coal mine, and what we’re seeing around is truly, truly alarming.

Regarding Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, where does the local Jewish community in South Palm Beach County stand, and where does the Federation stand?

We are a Zionist community that proudly stands with Israel, with empathy to everyone who fell victim of the senseless violence caused by Hamas on October 7, and the events that followed the attack. Federation takes a stand that all hostages need to be brought back home. This was an uncalled, barbaric invasion of a country.

We certainly are mindful of the results, and no human life should ever be lost for no reason. I think that we got to a point in this environment where everything is so binary. You have to be either pro this or anti that.

You can be pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian in the sense that no innocent victim should ever be murdered. We are deeply heartbroken for the situation that is unfolding in the Middle East. At the same time, we’re very clear of the responsibility that is on Hamas for the actions that have happened. They should disarm. They should release the hostages. And every effort should be put by the international community to ensure that the civilians in Gaza and other regions in the Middle East are supported.

Where should the Jewish community in Boca and elsewhere take hope right now?

In the incredible resilience of the Jewish people—their ingenuity and commitment to life. We say “L’Chaim” when there is a toast. We pray for Jerusalem and peace in the world every Friday night. So I would say that the incredible notion of peoplehood and interconnectedness between the Jewish people is something that we can definitely believe, learn from and truly support.

speaking at a Jewish Federation event

From stocking stuffers to the gift of experience, gifts from local nonprofits help give back.

Put the heart back into your holiday season. Here are a few ways to look beneath the tinsel and ribbons and bright wrapping paper for gifts that make a real difference in real lives—all in your own backyard.

WRITTEN BY MARIE SPEED

HabCenter:

PAYING IT FORWARD WITH A TASTE OF HONEY

The great 13th century Persian poet Rumi got what the holiday spirit was all about, even though he likely didn’t celebrate it: “Be a lamp, or a lifeboat, or a ladder. Help someone’s soul heal. Walk out of your house like a shepherd.”Which is pretty much what the HabCenter does every day. You, too, can tap into the real holiday spirit with a little jar of honey—and maybe a donation to keep HabCenter’s lamp burning.

What it Does: The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners launched The Habilitation Center in 1973 when it donated the property in West Boca Raton for a work and learning center aimed at families with loved ones with developmental differences,

those who had phased out of the school system and no longer had services nearby. The Boca Raton location, which opened in 1978, has since become a lifeline for hundreds, with a waiting list of 2,000 in Palm Beach County alone, a wait that can last up to 20 years.

HabCenter serves people with all manner of developmental differences, from autism, Down syndrome, intellectual limitations and cerebral palsy to schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and more. It provides work opportunities and mental health services as well as STEAM programs, vocational training, arts and music, tech training—you name it. There’s even a substantial plant nursery, and a beekeeping and honey operation.

But there’s another difference here, too.

“In a typical neuro-divergent space, the people have to adapt to the ways things are done. But what we do here is adapt the environment to their needs, so we provide adaptive ways for them to work—to live a full, purposeful life. They do that through learning various job skills and mental health counseling programs,” says the center’s CEO, Sherry Henry.

“ We provide adaptive ways for them to work. ”

In the manufacturing plant, HabCenter employees might package documents, measure wires, package cosmetics (including building the boxes), construct circuit boards, and all kinds of assembly work contracted to the center by outside businesses. They get mentoring as well as paychecks—and the work is tailored to their specific skill sets. Some workers are outsourced to employers like Publix or Sprouts. And those clients who may not be suited for the manufacturing side of things can attend the wide range of aforementioned programs.

“The HabCenter is important for our community, because this population has nowhere to go,” Henry says.“And we provide purpose. We provide enrichment. We provide improvement in their skills, like having conversations on what is appropriate in certain settings. We make them feel like they belong. And they do belong.”

Funding: HabCenter funding comes from earned income from manufacturing clients, the plant nursery, fundraising, grants, private donors and state appropriation funding.

Funding Challenges: “[Funding] has not been consistent,” Henry says.“The county support is critical to our mission, and they have really championed our cause for the past 47 years. The level of support doesn’t remain the same in terms of how much, but we really are successful because of what the county has done to help us become self-sufficient.”

Henry says recent legislative changes put forth by the current state administration have impacted the organization, including how the state will support clients who work at the HabCenter,

There is also the image.“We’re not sexy,” she says.“We do face the challenge of not having the shiny thing that everyone wants to champion—I am not disparaging this, but there are a lot of resources for children, but not as many for adults. For this population, they do not go into adulthood and become self-sufficient. They will need lifelong support. I see people not really connecting with that.”

Still, HabCenter staff and professionals and volunteers are undeterred—because they see what the HabCenter does. Henry recalls one client who transformed from an unruly and abandoned young man with no skills but a bad temper, to someone who has learned how to live in a community.

“He finds he is able to work and earn income. He [like all our clients] gains independence by taking his money and buying something he needs, or going to the movies—the things typical people do easily without even thinking about it. The HabCenter is also teaching him social skills—learning how to talk to a manager, how to ask for a raise, how to deal with conflict in the workplace—doing all that in a very supportive environment where each opportunity is a learning opportunity. … He feels like he’s loved, and he is loved.”

How it Can Be Your Holiday Present:

The HabCenter makes its own kosher-certified honey ($20 for six ounces, $22 for eight ounces)— and it also makes lip balm from the wax from the honey ($15).

HabCenter, 561/483-4200; visit habcenter.org

Above, HabCenter’s new honey hives. Right, Sherry Henry, CEO of the center, in the plant nursery.

—Sherry Henry

CARINA MASK

Her 2

GIVE A HAND UP WITH JEWELRY

Don’t get us wrong; a little blue box from Tiffany under the tree is hard to beat. But what if you gave the gift of purpose—even someone’s future—with a more understated bracelet from Her 2nd Chance?

What it Does: Her 2nd Chance was founded in 2018 by Keely Copeland, who found herself newly sober and in recovery but having trouble getting a job, a predicament shared by many trying to rebuild their lives. Out of that frustration she created the company that specifically hired women in recovery. What differentiates Her 2nd Chance from other recovery programs is that it is entrepreneurial, a social enterprise that trains women in running an ecommerce business that sells customized mugs, tumblers, greeting cards, bracelets, and corporate gifting items through her2ndchance.org and a shop on Etsy. It also offers fulfillment services to businesses, all from a vibrant high-style workspace converted from a small warehouse in east Boca Raton.

Her 2nd Chance offers women in early recovery transitional employment, which is a crucial component of a successful recovery journey for a few reasons. It provides a structured environment that helps re-establish a sense of routine and accountability, and it also offers a pathway to economic independence, building practical skills and confidence.

Public Relations Supervisor Mary Fuller says the women have “real jobs in the real world, and now with the jewelry project, many of them are becoming trained as jewelry makers. They feel they have purpose. We are offering them a hand up, not a hand out.”

The one-year program also offers an impressive array of support services and partners, including a Wellness Works initiative that includes daily meditations, weekly team lunches, monthly well-being workshops, and quarterly team-building events. The Bridge to Employment program prepares participants for community employment with career mentoring, resume assistance, mock interviews and skill-building workshops, ensuring a smooth transition to their next employer.

Fuller says she sees a growing need for the work Her 2nd Chance does and says the board is “passionate about finding innovative ways to ensure every woman who seeks our help finds the structured support, a living wage and renewed purpose she deserves.”

And it’s all worth it when Fuller sees the transformation.

“By the time they leave the program, our women often carry themselves with a new sense of pride, seeing their potential and worth far more clearly. The fear of failure is replaced with the confidence that they can succeed in a healthy, sober life.”

Funding: Her 2nd Chance is funded through grants, individual donations and sales from the social enterprise program.

Funding Challenges: Her 2nd Chance is a relatively new organization, and Fuller says she is committed to getting the word out, driving up product sales “so we can hire more women” in the face of a growing need.

How to Make it a Gift:

Her 2nd Chance is introducing a new line of bracelets, priced at $12 per single strand, in time for the holiday season at her2ndchance.org. Customers can order singles or stack them. And remember: Your purchase directly assists a woman’s journey toward independence and a brighter future.

Her 2nd Chance, 561/405-6346; customerservice@2ci.org; her2ndchance.org

In 2025, Her 2nd Chance celebrated $1 million in wages earned.

Women at Her 2nd Chance create personalized mugs and bracelets.

Keely Copeland, founder, Her 2nd Chance

The Palm Beach County Food Bank :

MEETINGS WITH A HEARTFELT AGENDA

Everyone you know is trying to figure out some way to make that fourcourse Christmas dinner even better this year—complete with that Santa-and-reindeer centerpiece, the shimmering glass ornaments, a special Williams Sonoma tablecloth that pulls it all together.

Then there are the thousands upon thousands of Palm Beach County residents who may, if they’re lucky, get Christmas dinner in a grocery bag at a local food pantry, or prepared, in a Styrofoam box. Between inflationary issues, housing costs, insurance hikes and wages not keeping up with cost of living, Palm Beach County Food Bank CEO Jamie Kendall says hunger is real for 192,000 Palm Beach County residents.

“They are classified as Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE)—basically the working class—maybe two parents working at slightly-over-minimum-wage jobs. … You throw two or three kids in the mix, and they are one flat tire away from a disaster. It’s those folks that are the majority of the people that we help.”

furnishing them with both bags of nonperishable food items at various locations as well as fresh vegetables and fruit (too expensive now for most on modest fixed incomes), distributed to senior centers on Fridays. The Food Bank steps up in other ways when the need presents itself, but its newest program is the state-of-the-art Michelle Hagerty Community Kitchen, a vast gleaming kitchen within Premier Kitchen that is capable of preparing 10,000 meals a day—and is fully generated so it can be activated for disaster services.

Funding: The Food Bank is funded mostly “from individuals and foundations, and we do a lot of grants,” Kendall says.“In the past we have gotten some state funding, but that has gone away.” Its impressive new Premier Kitchen may be another source of funding, as in-house culinary programs and events gain traction throughout the community.

“ They are one flat tire away from a disaster. ”

What it Does: The

—Jamie Kendall

Palm Beach County Food Bank procures food, then partners with local organizations to distribute it to a growing population of people who may not know where their next meal is coming from.

“We get food in a number of ways,” Kendall says.“Food drives, food retailers and manufacturers, some federal programs such as the USDA’s The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and we end up purchasing a lot of food. Our biggest job is getting all this food in—and becoming a clearinghouse for it. We work with almost 200 partner agencies in Palm Beach County that have boots-on-the-ground distribution programs: your shelters, the Lord’s Place, church pantries, places like Boca Helping Hands. ... There’s never any cost for any of the food that our partner agencies get from the Food Bank.”

In addition, the Food Bank has added a few “direct distribution” programs, like its “backpack” program to provide schoolchildren who qualify for free breakfast and school lunches with enough food to tide them over on weekends; it serves about 5,000 kids a week. There are summer feeding programs when school is out—they serve about 65,000 meals during a 10-week period—and there are programs to help elders by routinely

Funding Challenges: Prior to COVID, most food was donated to all the food banks. When agriculture and the food industry were roiled by COVID’s production and supply chain upheaval, food became an urgent need for many, and it was no longer available for free. Years later, food banks still have to pay for food, rather than have it donated.

A recent and stunning blow to the Food Bank was a last-minute change in this year’s state budget, which had originally slotted $38 million to be divided among food banks in Florida that had been in existence for at least five years. At the 11th hour, the funding was slashed, and the remainder given only to Feeding America food banks. The Palm Beach County Food Bank is an independent food bank and received nothing, a loss of more than $1 million.“There was no explanation,” Kendall says.

How it Can Be Your Holiday Gift: The Food Bank’s new flashy Premier Kitchen offers a myriad of experiential possibilities you can give as gifts. Companies can hold team-building meetings in the kitchen’s sleek adjacent boardroom, already wired for Zoom meetings and all kinds of presentations. Then attendees can enjoy a catered lunch from the Food Bank chef and its newly minted culinary students through the Food Bank’s inaugural social enterprise program to train people for jobs in the hospitality industry. Afterward, the group can donate their time and spend a couple of hours packing or sorting food in the Food Bank’s volunteer center, if they wish. Prices vary according to the number of people and the menu, but there’s nothing better than a holiday lunch meeting with a side of feel-good.

And, even better, Kendall says, the Food Bank’s Premier Kitchen can do anything you can think up, from a cooking class to a chef demonstration to a dinner party; one donor is even holding his wedding rehearsal dinner there next year.

Palm Beach County Food Bank, 561/670-2518, info@pbcfoodbank.org

Clockwise from top: The new Premier Kitchen, serving meals for a corporate meeting, and culinary director Chef Doug Barg

Arts Garage :

WITH A SONG IN YOUR HEART

Sometimes the best gift is not something you wear or drive or hang on a wall. In this case, it’s a memory-maker: music all yearround, up close and live.

The success of Arts Garage has been proven, and a driving factor is Waldo’s passion for the arts.

What it Does: Started by the Delray Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) as a community arts project like Arts Warehouse in 2011, this small nonprofit has become a robust, thriving arts venue in Delray as well as South Florida. It offers topnotch concerts in an intimate “listening room” format where the audience, seated comfortably at tables for most concerts, is close to the entertainment and welcome to bring their own food or snacks (liquor is sold at the venue). President and CEO Marjorie Waldo, now an arts icon in her own right, took over Arts Garage in 2016, when it was sinking due to its initial mismanagement.

“I spent the first two years turning around an agency that was on the brink of closure,” she recalls.“It was a real turnaround through a multi-pronged approach—not just financial.”

She led Arts Garage in resolving debt; reinventing policies and procedures; rebuilding relationships with vendors, employees and performers, as well as the city of Delray; and, finally, fine-tuning the programming.“It required all of that and all at the same time. It was almost like starting a new business,” she says.

Fast forward to 2025, and the venue is a star in the South Florida entertainment firmament, featuring world-class jazz and blues, top-quality tribute performances, and “big Latin” and Latin jazz performers, among the many other offerings. Waldo uses fine-tuned metrics as well as her own growing command of entertainment trends to gauge what audiences want, and the results have been impressive. In 2024, Arts Garage hosted more than 300 events, served nearly 29,000 attendees, and featured more than 1,600 artists generating $4.1 million in economic impact and the equivalent of 63 full-time jobs in Delray Beach.

Arts Garage has also embraced community outreach and offers adult and children’s education programming, artist receptions, summer camp and after-school activities, a special senior series to accommodate people with mobility issues, a program that donates supplies to local schools and charities, free ticket programs for nonprofits, and more.

“If you’ve been impacted personally by the arts, or you’ve seen other people impacted, then you have no doubt in your mind of the value of this cultural phenomenon that brings people together,” she says. “It bridges gaps that exist between age, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic levels—it all disappears when you are staring at the same painting or you’re sitting at the same show. That disappears as you become engaged in a common universal experience.”

Funding: Arts Garage funding is from ticket sales, grants from the CRA (in the future, possibly the City of Delray) and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, with local and county grants covering about 20% of the budget. Other sources of funding are private donations, sponsorships and memberships.

Funding Challenges: “My concern is about ongoing funding,”Waldo says.“For example, we lost the state grant when the governor vetoed the line item for arts and culture funding for the 20242025 year. … We assumed we’d get the same thing the legislature recommended the prior two years, which would have been about $100,000, but they actually came in below that at about $70,000 in state support. But when he vetoed even that, it was an historical action; we weren’t given a reason.”

How to Make it A Gift: Buy the gift of experience, with an annual membership at Arts Garage (they range from a Bronze at $250 to a Platinum at $5,000). All have member benefits, but Diamond members and above also get early access to events and many more perks. Why a membership?

Waldo explains,“One, you are providing the impetus for someone who may already love the arts but may not be active to get out of the house—I can’t turn off the news, but I can shut it down when I am listening to a show—and it doesn’t matter who’s sitting across the table from me. We can be from different socioeconomic backgrounds, different racial backgrounds, political or religious backgrounds, but we all love the blues or Cortadito’s Buena Vista Social Club show or whatever. … Part of it is providing an opportunity for people you love to come to things that make them feel better … and maybe make new friends. You are also supporting an organization that takes paying it forward in the community very seriously.”

Arts Garage, 561/450-6357; artsgarage.org

“[ Art] bridges gaps that exist between age, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic levels . ”

—Marjorie Waldo

Marjorie Waldo

Programming at Arts Garage spans a myriad of genres.

ANGIE MYERS

The museum's exhibits and gift shop can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

The Boca Raton Historical Society :

CELEBRATE OUR CENTENNIAL

Sometimes the best gift is a reminder that you are part of a place— that’s come a long way in a short time. As Boca Raton continues to celebrate its 100th birthday in 2025, here are a few ways this season to be part of the party.

What it Does: The Boca Raton Historical Society (BRHS) came into being in the nick of time—in 1972, when many of the young city’s pioneers were still alive and remembered the way things were. The city was founded in 1925, but it wasn’t until the Junior Service League (later to become the Junior League) came along that the notion of preserving its history became a major project. It was that initiative that spawned the Boca Raton Historical Society.

As Csar says,“The Historical Society is a wonderful resource for the community. … The Boca Raton Historical Society is much more proactive in collecting history and sharing history than other towns our size. Understanding your local history gives you a sense of place, and it gives you pride in your community. You know where you live, and you know you are part of it.”

“ Understanding your local history gives you a sense of place. ”

“We became right away an academic institution, because the late Dr. Donald Curl was on the board and was the first history professor at FAU,” says Mary Csar, director of the Historical Society for the past 27 years.“He’d write these 'Spanish River Papers,' which were historical articles that got us off to a good start really learning and telling Boca’s story.” [The 'Spanish River Papers' are still being written, by a variety of authors, including Susan Gillis, the Museum’s longtime curator—Ed.] Many pioneers were still alive, so they donated artifacts and stories; literally everything in our pioneer exhibit came from those people. That gave us a sure footing early on. … South Florida was so young, when you think about it.”

Over the years the BRHS launched the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, started Boca Bacchanal to raise money for children’s programs, restored the historic Streamliner train cars, and welcomed curator Susan Gillis, whose meticulous cataloguing literally created the museum. Today, the museum offers changing history exhibits,“Free Fun Saturdays” for children, community educational programs, Town Hall Talks, a Speakers’ Bureau, walking historical tours of The Boca Raton, the annual Walk of Recognition, the popular Toast, Taste & Trolleys events, and more.

Funding: The BRHS counts on county bed tax money, membership programs, grants, donations, fundraisers and the proceeds from its annual fund to keep ticking, plus items sold in its gift shop.

Funding Challenges: The BRHS used to count on a state grant, but since the current state administration’s slashing of its cultural/arts budget, this is the second year the BRHS has not received it—a shortfall anywhere from $40,000 to $80,000.

How it Can Be Your Holiday Gift: Celebrate Boca’s legacy with holiday ornaments commemorating the centennials of the City of Boca Raton ($25.95), The Addison ($18.95) and The Boca Raton ($24.95). Our favorite gift, though, is “Dream City: A Pictorial History of Boca Raton,” a coffee table-style book produced in honor of Boca Raton’s centennial that documents our local history from the late 1800s thru today ($100).

Boca Raton History Museum, 561/395-6766, ext. 100; bocahistory.org

—Mary Csar

Mary Csar

This page, clockwise from bottom left: Mizner Park tree lighting, The Shops at Boca Center Christmas tree, Lynn Gingerbread Concert, and Boca Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker.” Right page: Mizner Park tree lighting

GINA FONTANA

ANDREA MAT PHOTOGRAPHY

While there’s certainly no snow falling, the holiday season is still upon us. Check out our picks for where to celebrate the holidays in Boca and beyond.

Written by BRET MARBACH

Holiday Kickoff

Friday, Nov. 21, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., The Shops at Boca Center

Friends and family will gather to welcome the holiday season to Boca Raton, including meet-and-greets with Santa Claus, cookie decorating with Blueprint Cookies, letter-writing to Santa, live performances by local school choirs, and a tree lighting ceremony.

Holiday Tree Lighting

Saturday, Nov. 22, 6 to 10 p.m., Mizner Park Amphitheater

Enjoy a full night of celebration to kick off the holiday season. This free show will feature a tree lighting ceremony, live music performances, food vendors, photos with Santa, and more. Plus, Mizner Park will transform into a winter wonderland, with 50,000 LED lights attached to 75 palm trees throughout the park, making it a perfect picture spot!

CP Group’s 10th-annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Extravaganza

Tuesday, Nov. 25, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., BRiC

Kick off the holiday season with Boca Raton’s community tree lighting events at Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC). Beyond the iconic lighting of the 40-foot Christmas tree, the event will feature entertainment and new festive attractions for all ages. Guests can meet Santa Claus himself, and enjoy a photobooth, food, face-painting and more. Also, VIP tickets are available for $60 per adult and $16 per child, offering additional food and fun. Parking and general-admission tickets are free.

Boca Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker”

Nov. 28-30, Olympic Heights Performing Arts Theater

In this holiday tradition, Boca Ballet Theatre ushers in the season with its production of“The Nutcracker,”with principal guest dancers Zimmi Coker and Carlos Gonzalez from American Ballet Theatre.

Boca Raton Holiday Street Parade: “The Centennial Express: 100 Years of Holiday Cheer”

Wednesday, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m., downtown Boca Raton

The 53rd-annual holiday parade begins along Federal Highway and

Southeast Fifth Street and travels north toward Mizner Park Amphitheater. This year, the parade follows the celebration of Boca’s 100th year, as the theme is “The Centennial Express: 100 Years of Holiday Cheer.”The parade features 60 festive floats full of local bands and community members. Lights, music and dancing will entertain viewers for this fun and festive show.

Lynn Gingerbread Concert

Sunday, Dec. 7, 2 to 5 p.m., Lynn University

At Lynn University’s Keith C. and Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center, the 22nd-annual Gingerbread Concert, presented by Lynn University Friends of the Conservatory of Music, will feature nostalgic holiday classics performed by first-rate student musicians. Get there early to partake in refreshments and festive activities for the kids.

Tuba Christmas

Sunday, Dec. 7, 5 p.m., Mizner Park Amphitheater

Enjoy music under the stars with a free jolly tuba performance, with the instruments decked out in festive gear! Don’t forget to bring blankets to listen to the music picnic-style with your friends.

Holiday Night Market

Thursday, Dec. 11, 6 to 9 p.m, Sanborn Square

Stroll through Sanborn Square for a festive evening of food, art, live music and handmade gifts. This magical marketplace under the stars is the perfect place to pick up a unique gift or just soak in the spirit of the season.

Up on the Rooftop Christmas Festival

Friday, Dec. 13, 5 to 8:30 p.m., Boca Raton Community Church

Bring the whole family for an evening of free Christmas fun, from lawn games and food trucks to a concert, petting zoo and kids’ activities.

Boca Raton Hanukkah Festival

Sunday, Dec. 14

Chabad of Boca Raton and the Jewish Federation invite the community for a day of family fun, including a bounce house, face painting, the Great Gelt Drop, traditional snacks, petting zoo and more.

Menorah Lighting

Thursday, Dec. 18, Town Center Mall

In an annual Chanukah tradition, Chabad of Boca Raton has organized a spectacular evening of holiday treats and entertainment. Attendees can look forward to entertainment, latkes, sufganiyot, crafts and other family-friendly activities, followed by a menorah lighting with local leaders and rabbis.

BEYOND BOCA

Kids Corner Holiday Shop

Nov. 7 to Dec. 24, The Gardens Mall

The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens is fulfilling every child’s wildest holiday dream with the Kids Corner Holiday Shop, located on the upper-level Grand Court. This is a kids-only store where children can holiday-shop for their loved ones. Santa’s helpers will be available to assist the kids in spending three coins from Santa’s golden bank. All proceeds from the $5 cost to shop will benefit the Arc of Palm Beach County.

Holidays at CityPlace

Nov. 8 to Dec. 31, CityPlace

Let it snow! The fun starts on Nov. 8 with a countdown to the lighting of the Wishing Tree, kicking off two months’ worth of live performances, artist markets, and a Chanukah celebration with the Palm Beach Synagogue (Dec. 7, 19 and 28), as well as Christmas (Dec. 25), Kwanzaa (Dec. 30) and New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) festivities. CityPlace in West Palm Beach is also transformed into a winter wonderland with nightly snowfalls as well as visits with Santa on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

“‘Twas The Night Before” Holiday Show

Nov. 20 to 30, Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

Experience Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show right in West Palm Beach. Based on the classic poem “A Visit from Saint Nicholas,” the show will feature acrobatics, characters and a soundtrack full of holiday classics.

Zoo Lights

Nov. 21 to Jan. 4, Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society

The zoo is moving into its seventh year of turning 23 acres of tropical walkways into a twinkling winter wonderland. The Zoo Lights event provides all visitors with holiday cheer by using 1 million eco-friendly lights to illuminate and showcase themed displays of animal sculptures. After walking through the displays, visit Santa’s Village for cookie decorating, photos with Santa Claus and other festive activities. Timed tickets are required to attend this event, as attendance is limited.

Christmas Tree Lighting & Yuletide Fair

Tuesday, Dec. 2, 6 to 9 p.m., Old School Square in Delray Beach

Delray Beach kicks off the holiday season with Santa lighting the 100-foot tree that towers over Old School Square. After marveling at the tree, go holiday shopping down Atlantic Avenue, try the delicious food trucks, or visit the entertainment stages during the Yuletide Fair. This festive night also marks the start of the Holiday Village and visits to Santa’s House for photo opportunities.

Delray Beach menorah lighting

Delray Beach’s 100-foot Christmas tree

Ferris lights up Clematis by Night in West Palm Beach

Clematis By Night Holiday Tree Lighting

Thursday, Dec. 4, 6 to 10 p.m., 100 Clematis St., West Palm Beach

Clematis By Night in downtown West Palm Beach celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, making the annual tree lighting ceremony extra special. Watch the tree light up, the arrival of Sandi—a 35-foot-tall, 700-ton sand tree with nightly music and light shows— Ferris the ferris wheel, live music, food and other fun.

Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade

Saturday, Dec. 6, 6 p.m., Intracoastal Waterway

The 31st-annual Holiday Boat Parade navigates up the Intracoastal from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. The parade also features a toy drive to benefit Toys for Tots and Little Smiles. The parade is free to enter and will be giving away thousands in cash and prizes. Throughout, there will be a fireworks display up the Intracoastal. There are many viewing sites for those who want to see the parade on shore, like the North Palm Beach Country Club.

Sandi and Santa’s Annual Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, Dec. 7, Lake Pavilion in West Palm Beach Mr. and Mrs. Claus invite the community for a pancake breakfast with meet-and-greets, as well as photo opportunities with Sandi the sand tree!

Boynton Beach Holiday Boat Parade

Friday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m.

The Boynton Beach Holiday Boat Parade has partnered with the towns of Hypoluxo and Lantana and City of Delray Beach to host a festive parade. The parade forms at the Ocean Avenue Bridge in Lantana (near Old Key Lime House) and travels south to the C-15 Canal in Delray Beach (south of Linton Boulevard). Participating boats go all out with dazzling lights, holiday decor and costumed captains to bring the holiday spirit. The Boynton Harbor Marina is the official spot to watch the parade, full of festive music, children’s activities, a special visit from Santa, and food and beverages.

Delray Beach Holiday Parade

Saturday, Dec. 13, 6 p.m, along Atlantic Avenue from the Intracoastal Bridge to Northwest Fifth Avenue

Festivities will be in full swing on Delray Beach’s Atlantic Avenue during the annual Holiday Parade. More than 70 floats, dance teams and community groups will jingle bell rock their way down the Avenue. While enjoying the parade, visitors can choose from a variety of food and drink vendors nearby.

Menorah Lighting/Hanukkah Festival

Sunday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m., Old School Square

Join in the spirit of community and watch the lighting of the menorah in Old School Square. With latkes, donuts and fresh pizza from the Gifted Crust, no guest should go unsatisfied. Attendees can expect bounce houses, face painting, LED games, a live DJ and other activities in celebration of this joyful holiday.

Delray Beach Jingle Bell Jog 5k

Saturday, Dec. 20, 7:30 a.m., Anchor Park and along A1A Every year, a mass of Santas takes over Delray Beach with the sounds of jingle bells and cheer. At the Jingle Bell Jog 5k, participants receive a Santa suit complete with jingle bells to tie to their running shoes. The race will begin at Anchor Park at 7:30 a.m. on Gleason Street and move along A1A. After the scenic jog, participants will be treated to holiday-themed refreshments, and finishers will receive a medal.

Kwanzaa Celebration

Friday, Dec. 26, 2 to 5 p.m., Solomon D. Spady House

The Spady Museum in Delray Beach invites families to celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa. This Pan-African holiday is one that celebrates many values, but especially the gift of unity. Typically, the holiday lasts a week, but the museum has condensed the festivities into an afternoon of fun. Guests are invited to make their own gifts while enjoying live music, children’s storytelling and more art activities.

BILL BARBOSA PHOTOGRAPHY

Boca Raton holiday parade

Zoo Lights

Luxe of the Irish

When in Ireland, you’re in luck, as Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ Legend Collection offers magical stays.

Written by ANGELA CARAWAY-CARLTON

reland is celebrated for its untamed beauty—wild coastlines, rolling green hills and enchanted forests that conjure up images of fairies. Yet Ireland also boasts a luxurious side, with lavish hotels that present pot-of-gold indulgence.

Over the course of 10 days, I journeyed across Ireland to stay at five of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ Legend Collection hotels. All are independently owned, and rich in heritage and perks such as Michelin-starred dining or a renowned spa. Explore them all, or discover the perfect Celtic escape tailored to your style.

Main photo, the Cliffs of Moher. Above from left, concierge at Hayfield Manor, horse and hound welcome at Dromoland, and tea at the K Club.

KILDARE: POSH COUNTRY ESCAPE

THE K CLUB

Upon landing at Dublin Airport, I’m immediately whisked away to The K Club, an 1800s mansion nestled in the equestrian-rich Kildare countryside. While only a half-hour drive from Dublin’s city center, Kildare delivers a dramatic shift in energy and scenery. My eyes slowly drink in the estate’s stretching green lawns and meticulously manicured gardens bursting with red and gold blooms. After a long overnight flight, the crisp country air is a welcome refreshment.

I arrive in time for tea, a cherished afternoon pastime where the beverage’s delicacies resemble colorful works of art, Champagne flows freely, and the elegant Drawing Room beckons one to linger by the fire. I don’t loiter too long, though, as the lush grounds serve as a playground for outdoor pursuits. Guests can partake in legendary golf on two Arnold Palmer-designed courses—host to the Horizon Irish Open in 2025 and 2027—horseback riding, clay shooting, fly-fishing or serene strolls along the River Liffey. For me, an archery lesson is a thrilling opportunity to try something new.

Walk or bike to the nearby Straffan Inn, a 1920s pub where the bartenders are incredible storytellers (or “liars,” as one joked to me), and they’ll teach you how to pull a pint. If it’s vino you’re craving, book a wine and cheese tasting in the candlelit wine cellar that rests beneath the original Straffan House, which famed winemaker Hugh Barton built in the early 19th century. At night, dine in the formal Barton Restaurant or at The Palmer, a more casual restaurant overlooking the golf course.

Carve out time to walk the hotel’s rambling hallways dotted with antiques and artwork that will impress any art connoisseur. No two rooms are alike at The K Club, and sleep came easy in my canopied bed. It was a peaceful treat to peek out my window in the mornings at the river.

EPIC EXPERIENCE: Kildare is renowned for its equestrian heritage, and The K Club will arrange a private tour at Jessica Harrington Racing, home to one of Ireland’s best trainers. Set against a backdrop of rolling green hills, you’ll witness the thoroughbreds run through their paces, and you’ll meet with the Harrington family to hear about their acclaimed racing legacy.

From top: K Club suite, Jessica Harrington Racing and an aerial view of the K Club

CORK: CULINARY ADVENTURES

HAYFIELD MANOR

Next, in search of gastronomic pleasures, I head 2.5 hours east to Cork, a city regarded as Ireland’s culinary capital. As I pull into Hayfield Manor, a brick manse covered in meandering ivy, a bellman donning a top hat guides me down a red-carpeted entrance worthy of royalty. Hayfield is a family-owned manor, and the communal spaces dressed in rich woods and fine carpets feel like a welcoming home, while rooms are luxurious and spacious, each decorated with their own unique furnishings.

During the day, dip in the indoor pool adorned with an H logo or wander the property’s two acres of secluded gardens. Garden party vibes extend to Bloom, the manor’s new glassy cocktail lounge, where bartenders shake up botanical-infused libations. It’s a great warm-up for dinner at Orchids, a fine dining restaurant centered on locally sourced ingredients, including seafood from the nearby Ballycotton fishing village.

Hayfield places guests in easy walking distance to Cork’s many gems, including The English Market, one of the oldest covered markets in Europe and where Queen Elizabeth II was famously photographed laughing with a fishmonger. I explore the bustling market with tour company Activity Days, sucking down fresh oysters and sampling artisanal cheeses, chocolates and spiced beef. Later, I explore another Irish institution, the Midleton Distillery; Hayfield will arrange a bespoke tour of the distillery and a premium whiskey tasting of the seven brands made there, including Jameson and the exclusive Redbreast Family Collection.

EPIC EXPERIENCE: Zip off on a thrilling speedboat tour of Cork Harbour with Ocean Escapes to gawk at colorful coastal houses and to stop at the former prison fortress of Spike Island.

CASTLEMARTYR RESORT

Another five-star stunner, Castlemartyr Resort offers a different perspective of Cork, where natural beauty, historic charm and covetable culinary experiences intermingle. The 200-plus-acre property flaunts a tapestry of sculptural gardens—and uniquely, the ruins of a 13th-century Knights Templar castle. For me, though, it was a walk through the surrounding woodlands where I spotted mushrooms sprouting from logs and pastures of sunbathing sheep and frolicking horses that captured the essence of Ireland.

Catering to Cork’s culinary spirit, the property is home to Terre, a two Michelin Star restaurant helmed by Vincent Crepel, who masterfully intertwines Asian-inspired food with French techniques. The night I dined there, I arrived early for a garden

From top: Hayfield Manor and the fishing village of Cobh in County Cork

tour, and then I began my experience at the chef’s table in the kitchen to watch the esteemed chef craft exquisite plates injected with everything from caviar to sea kelp, before being led into the dining room for the full coursed experience.

The estate’s 108 rooms and suites are expansive—with the smallest at 500 square feet—and guests can choose between accommodations in the original 18th-century manor house, modern digs in the contemporary wing, or 36 luxury residences. Also on property, enjoy an expansive spa retreat and a Ron Kirby-designed golf course.

EPIC EXPERIENCE: Explore the Ballycotton Cliffwalk, a rugged trail offering the stunning coastal and cliff vistas for which Ireland is famous. Reward yourself with lunch at The Hunted Hog, a cozy pub worthy of a pint and comfort food.

KILLARNEY: A SPA HAVEN THE EUROPE HOTEL & RESORT

Just when I think I can’t utter the word “wow” again, the panoramas at the Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney—a little over

an hour from Cork—leave me in awe. The lobby’s floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the hotel’s supreme setting that fronts the largest lake in Killarney and Ireland’s tallest mountain range, MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. The backdrop—which actually feels more like the Alps—constantly begs me to pause and watch the clouds create a game of hide-and-seek with the mountains, as the sun emphasizes the valleys like a green highlighter.

With vistas like these, it’s worth splurging on a lake-view room, which boasts a contemporary aesthetic drenched in leather and velvets, super king-sized beds and private balconies. The heart of the resort is the 50,000-square-foot ESPA, and I looked forward to zipping down the glass elevator in my plush robe to soak in the spa retreat’s warm, bubbling waters in between stints in the steam room and sauna. Understandably, a popular gathering spot is the outdoor infinity pool, which capitalizes on those placid lake and mountain vistas.

There are five dining outlets, including the Italian goodness of Riva and the aptly named Panorama Restaurant. In true Irish form, the resort owns a nearby farm, and its beef and lamb is showcased on restaurant menus. The property offers golf, fishing and complimentary horseback riding on its prized Austrian

This page, clockwise from top left: Castlemartyr Resort, a bite from Terre Restaurant, The Europe Hotel & Resort, and its pool.

Haflinger ponies, and with easy access to the Lakes of Killarney, you’ll want to get out on a boat.

EPIC EXPERIENCE: Don’t miss the Gap of Dunloe tour, one of the oldest tours in Ireland. I hopped in a jaunting car—a twowheeled horse carriage helmed by a jarvey (driver)—to meander, and sometimes gallop, through the mountain pass that was carved out by slow-moving ice 2 million years ago. The scenery is like a movie set, with ferns, wildflowers and sheep dotting the hills. If you’re lucky, the jarvey may whip out a harmonica and sing a melody that’ll bring tears to your eyes.

COUNTY CLARE: CELTIC CASTLE DREAMS

DROMOLAND CASTLE

You can’t visit Ireland without staying in a castle. On the final stretch of my journey, I traveled along the Wild Atlantic Way to County Clare, where my arrival at Dromoland Castle resembled a scene fitting of “Downton Abbey.” Approaching the front gate, a regal parade of horses and hounds guided us through the 500acre property to the imposing gray castle, where the sounds of a bagpiper filled the air and a line of staff stood ready to welcome us. (This special experience requires prior booking.)

These grand gestures are part of the 16th-century castle’s magic, where elaborate service and lighthearted luxury come together. One of the staff likened Dromoland to a “royal country retreat,” pointing to guests’ wellies that are often left by the front door after a day of exploration. Don’t let that statement fool you—the castle is dripping in opulence, with lavish carpeting and heavy draperies, gilded mirrors and shimmering chandeliers, and even shiny suits of armor. With roots as the ancestral home of the O’Brien dynasty, whose lineage dates back to one of the last High Kings of Ireland, accounts of its storied past (including that of Lady Isabella O’Brien, who saved the castle from financial despair) whirl around the castle, and guests can lean into that heritage with a historical tour.

Activities abound on the sprawling grounds. One morning, I tried the ancient sport of falconry—extending my gloved hand as a raptor swooped down and clutched his talons onto my shaking arm. Another afternoon, I strolled the walled gardens that evoke “Alice in Wonderland” vibes with whimsical sculptures and oversized flowers. Guests can take one of the boats out for a dreamy spin on the lake, be spoiled at the spa, take Irish language classes, or even meet with a genealogist to discover their heritage.

The castle is a 15-minute drive from Shannon International Airport. For me, it was the perfect “Irish goodbye”—a quiet exit without the fuss of a formal farewell, knowing that the call of the Emerald Isle will surely lure me back again soon.

EPIC EXPERIENCE: Dromoland is an excellent base for visiting the Cliffs of Moher, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s located 45 minutes away. The day I visited on a private tour with Cliffs of Moher Walking Tours (100roisin@gmail.com), the luck of the Irish shined upon us with a bluebird-sky day, minimal winds and flawless views of the famous cliffs.

From top: Gap of Dunloe, Dromoland, and Mr. Pickles the owl perched on a falconer.

Experience the luxury of seamless service with the leading experts in custom pool design, every step of the way.

Designer Jackie Armour wanted something dramatic to ground the Gucci wallcovering, so she selected a geometric floor tile. She added a counter-mounted mirror later on.

TIP: BALANCE AND PROPORTION. “One thing can’t take over the room. The pattern can be the focal point, but it can’t take over and be the only thing you see in the room.”

- Nichola Francesca DePass

ABOVE: In this office reimagined by Lori Morris, the wood floor’s multicolored green palette is a complementary backdrop, while the geometrical Art Deco-inspired pattern creates interest and adds to the room’s personality.

RIGHT: Of this living room, Nichola Francesca DePass says, “Patterns should interact like a team passing the baton, each element carrying the story forward without fighting for attention.”

We’re Seeing a Pattern Here

TIP: DON’T BE TIMID. “If you hesitate, it shows. Patterns and textures require confidence. Commit to the choices, and they’ll carry the room.”

- Nichola Francesca DePass

Talented design pros share insider tips for working with patterns and designs, helping your home feel vibrant yet balanced.

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

Plain and predictable? Not anymore. In the hands of talented designers and their enthusiastic clients, homes are breaking free with bold patterns, lively prints and a fearless mix that makes every space feel like a personal statement of style.

A SPECTRUM OF PATTERN

Designer Lori Morris aimed to reflect her client’s fabulously stylish personality in the elegant lounge she designed for his Boca Raton vacation home. Morris transformed his office—a prime space off the foyer—into a sexy, romantic room perfect for evening cocktails paired with piano tunes. She balanced deep jewel tones with black lacquer cabinetry and used the archway’s detailed moldings to add timeless architectural detail and dimension.

However, patterns don’t always need to be big and brash; they can also be soft and subtle, like in designer Nichola Francesca DePass’s chic living room.“Pattern doesn’t have to shout to make an impact—it just has to flow.”She achieved this by choosing

a marble for the feature wall. It appears soft at first glance, but it is actually bold in both presence and placement, running horizontally to contrast with the vertically fluted fireplace.“That intentional tension between horizontal and vertical lines adds dimension and movement to the room,”she explains.“It draws your eye in, then lets you breathe.”DePass believes in being bold, not busy.“Boldness doesn’t mean chaos. Patterns can have an impact even in subtle applications if they’re used thoughtfully.”

This was the case when designer Jackie Armour’s client fell in love with Gucci wallpaper featuring a crane (see lead photo); Armour made it a focal point in the Palm Beach Gardens home. “I’ve never met a pattern or color I didn’t like. It’s always fun to take a small space and do something really dynamic and create a wow factor,” she says. The stunning heron-and-dragonfly design serves as a striking work of art that requires little else, prompting Armour to complement it subtly with a custom vanity.

TIP: CONSIDER LIGHTING WHEN SELECTING A BATHROOM PATTERN. “Test in the bathroom light to ensure the right ambiance.”

- Ritzy Christensen of Bô Casa

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Patterns in bathrooms can also add depth and interest, whether they envelop the entire space or appear in select areas. This powder bath, designed by Ritzy Christensen of Bô Casa, feels calm and soft; yet the leaf-patterned wall delivers visual interest with an exotic touch. To create that peaceful-yet-impactful vibe, Christensen chose soft beiges, warm whites and muted browns to complement the stunning Italian leaf porcelain tiles, a premium choice over wallpaper or paint.

On the other end of the pattern spectrum, Morris’s powder bath bursts with endless flower power. The designer chose a textured, pleated floral wallcovering in an abstract floral motif to complement the custom mosaic floor. She finished the romantic color palette with the custom green-and-pink vanity to create a “delicious ice cream cone of a bathroom” that instantly puts a smile on your face.

CUSTOM WALLS

To create the impression of a spacious dining room, designer Gil Walsh selected a large-pattern mural for this home. Her clients enjoy entertaining, so this space was a key part of the house and needed an artistic focal point that adds character and depth. The walls are also curved, which made wallpapering and placing an area rug challenging. Instead, Walsh chose this hand-painted mural by Bob Christian to bring warmth and visual interest.

TIP: THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE.“Use a powder bath to try a bold color and pattern.”

- Lori Morris

JERRY RABINOWITZ

ABOVE: To successfully create interest in a space, designer Gil Walsh mixes patterns with geometric designs, incorporates textured fabrics and uses decorative trims.

TOP LEFT: Lori Morris believes there’s a misconception about pink. For her, it’s not childish or girly, but a neutral color she enjoys using in a variety of spaces.

BOTTOM LEFT: “Highlight a bold pattern to create a visual anchor without overwhelming the space,” says Ritzy Christensen.

TIP: DON’T FORGET TO LET YOUR TABLE SETTING PLAY A ROLE. “Placemats, napkins and dishware are great opportunities to introduce patterns in a way that’s easily changeable.”

- Gil Walsh

TIP: MIX IT UP. “It’s amazing how much pattern a room can take. You have a lot of artistic license, so don’t be afraid to mix patterns.”

- Jackie Armour

POPS OF COLOR

Shying away from an all-white kitchen, Armour embraced these turquoise cabinets as a starting point and balanced the kitchen space by incorporating patterns of varying sizes to complement the room’s diverse colors. She chose a small, grid-like wallpaper for the window wall that echoes the similar grid design of the island stools. To create balance, Armour selected a quartz countertop that plays off the wavelike print on the bar stools with a softer, more organic interpretation, counterbalancing the angularity of the breakfast area.

NO ROOM LEFT BEHIND

Main living spaces shouldn’t have all the fun. Designer Michael Cohen of Marc-Michaels Interior Design imagined a colorful laundry room for this Palm Beach home; his client wanted one of her two laundry rooms to be girly and pink. To evoke a Palm Beach vibe, Cohen chose a tropical-fruit-patterned wallcovering to complement the colorful cabinets. But he didn’t stop there. Instead of relying solely on a light fixture, Cohen celebrated the ceiling by adding wallcovering to the overhead surface, its polka dot pattern coordinating with the walls and cabinets.“It was important that the ceiling still had a feeling of lightness. Bold patterns can sometimes make the room feel closed in, so the white background helped with that.”

The hood adds another layer wrapped in rift-cut oak.

TIP: ENJOY THE PROCESS. “Have fun with it! If it makes you happy, do it!”

- Michael Cohen of Marc-Michaels Interior Design

Benjamin Moore’s Pink Peach cabinet color adds cheerful vibrancy to this space designed by Michael Cohen.

JESSICA KLEWICKI GLYNN

CARMEL BRANTLEY

A DESIGN ALTERNATIVE

Want to enhance your space with a pattern, but don’t necessarily want to use wallpaper? Local muralist Devin Noel has the perfect solution. Murals can serve as a striking focal point or completely transform how you experience a room. Noel excels at creating unique, immersive environments for her clients. Who needs artwork when a mural can enrich a room so perfectly?

Devin Noel Designs was born out of the pandemic lockdown after Noel’s bartending jobs ended. She grew up in a family of practicing artists and had always done art on the side, but 2020 gave her the push to start her own business. Today, she’s a master at creating exclusive, one-of-a-kind murals for her clients that feature whimsy and wonder played out on a grand scale. Her next goal: adding 3D elements to her murals. devinnoel.com

TIP: PICK A STATEMENT SURFACE. “That includes the floor. Then mix in small-scale patterns for balanced layering.”

- Michael Cohen of Marc-Michaels Interior Design

ABOVE: Stripes are versatile, but keep scale in mind, Michael Cohen warns. “Smaller stripes feel more balanced when paired with larger geometrics.”

Artist Devin Noel

STEPHANIE GIOLETTI

BALANCING ACT

Cohen continued playing with patterns in this home’s foyer. His client’s young family wanted a bright, colorful retreat with touches of elegance and glam that instantly transported them into vacation mode when they stepped inside. So Cohen chose a bold, large geometric-patterned floor to set the tone for the space. He decided to use neutral tones for the floor and the wall paneling to balance the more vibrant patterns of the settee and staircase.

PEACE AND QUIET

In a bedroom where everyone longs for tranquility, patterns can feel overwhelming for some—unless you know how to use them effectively. Designer Margarita Bravo layers patterns and weaves in textures to create a space that reveals itself gradually. To satisfy her clients who wanted a guest suite that felt collected rather than overly decorated, she enveloped the room in a whimsical flora and fauna scene and anchored it with a cracked-stone geometric area rug. She then echoed the rich raspberry from the wallcovering onto the tweed headboard and added white bedding and a linen lampshade as visual breathers to prevent the patterns from competing.

In another example of crafting a sanctuary-like bedroom, Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors envisioned a mid-century home retreat where bold design elements—like the striking patterned ceiling and artwork—blend seamlessly with soft textures and sleek furniture, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. The bedroom’s star is the suede-textured wallcovering in a soft, grey tone, which adds a sense of movement and drama. She then grounded the room with a woven rug, plush textured bed pillows, and furniture with clean lines.

TIP: IT’S NOT A COMPETITION.

“Two strong patterns side by side will make a bedroom feel busy instead of restful. Choose one hero and let the others play a supporting role.”

- Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors

ABOVE RIGHT: “When pattern and texture collaborate, a bedroom transcends decoration and becomes an experience—exactly what this guest suite was always meant to be,” Margarita Bravo says.

RIGHT: Laetitia Laurent says, “I use pattern to add depth and personality, but it has to feel intentional. A bedroom should feel like an exhale. Every choice—from the ceiling detail to the art to the rug—is about creating visual interest that still invites calm. That balance is what makes a space feel elevated but livable.”

Seashell art by Iran Issa-Khan

TIP: MIND THE PALETTE. “Let every print borrow at least one color from another element so the eye registers continuity.”

-

Margarita Bravo

THE ART OF LIVING, PERFECTED

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.

SILVER LININGS

Polished, luminous and endlessly versatile, silver defies time and trends. From molten mirrors to gleaming light fixtures and shimmering flatwear, these accents bring sleek sophistication to any home or gathering.

Curated by AMANDA MESA

1. Melange Saber Cocktail Table$2,279, Ferguson Home, Boca Raton, fergusonhome.com. 2. Uttermost Gatsby Ceramic and Crystal Bottles (Set of 2) - $205, Ferguson Home, Boca Raton, fergusonhome.com. 3. Foxton Table Lamp - $928, Anthropologie, Boca Raton, anthropologie.com. 4. Sphere Table - $948, Perigold, West Palm Beach, perigold.com.

5. Thaddeus Curved Leather Dining Armchair - $4,250, Restoration Hardware, Boca Raton, restorationhardware.com.

6. John-Richard Collection Cosmos 4-Door Cabinet - $8,840, Neiman Marcus, Boca Raton, neimanmarcus.com. 7. Garden Bamboo Oval Tray - $162 Hive, Palm Beach, hivepalmbeach.com.

NATURALLY INCLINED

Earthy, tactile and effortlessly coastal, wood is having a moment. From sun-washed finishes to richly textured grains, sculptural accents and classic silhouettes, add a sense of warmth and balance to your space with these finds.

1. Julip Coffee Table - $1,121, Birch Lane, Boca Raton, birchlane.com.

2. Coastal Living Surfside Wood Flush Mount - $480, Saks Fifth Avenue, Boca Raton, saksfifthavenue.com 3. 9-Piece Wood Wall Decor Set - $480, Birch Lane, Boca Raton, birchlane.com. 4. Bloom Tamarind Wood Bowl - $100, CB2, Miami Beach, cb2.com. 5. Four Hands Ezri Media Console$2,699, Neiman Marcus, Boca Raton, neimanmarcus.com. 6. Arteriors Fricke Accent Table - $780, Designers Mark, Boca Raton, arteriorshome. com. 7. Tondo 9-inch Acacia Plate - $10, 12-inch Platter - $19.95, Crate & Barrel, Boca Raton, crateandbarrel.com.

MAKE A SCENE

Up the drama and dare to defy convention. These showstopping chairs, sculptural lamps and unapologetically bold accents prove that form can be just as expressive as function.

1. Serpentine King Bed - $3,750, Jonathan Adler, Miami, jonathanadler.com. 2. Palm Chandelier$5,700, Mabley Handler Home & Design, West Palm Beach, mableyhandlerhomestore.com. 3. Double Stacked Rug - price upon request, Art + Loom, Miami, artandloom.com. 4. Mound Oak Drink Table - $348, Anthropologie, Boca Raton, anthropologie.com. 5. Arteriors Sojourner Lounge Chair - $3,380, Designers Mark, Boca Raton, arteriorshome.com. 6. Sapphire Bar Cabinet - $9,584, Williams Sonoma, Boca Raton, williams-sonoma.com. 7. Sinclair Tassel-Fringed

Get into the spirit of the season …

22nd Annual Gingerbread Holiday Concert

Presented by the Friends of the Conservatory of Music

Parents, grandparents and kids of all ages are invited to this family-friendly concert featuring Lynn University’s Philharmonia with Dean Jon Robertson conducting.

Sponsored by Boca magazine and Sodexo, this pops concert raises funds for scholarships for talented student musicians. Your support makes it possible for many of our students to graduate to positions with renowned orchestras. We are grateful for the Friends of the Conservatory of Music and this year’s chair Kristen Cook Oliver.

Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025

Pre-show holiday activities begin at 2 p.m. Concert begins at 3 p.m.

Lynn University

Keith C. and Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center

3601 N. Military Trail

Boca Raton, FL 33431

Tickets: $35

+1 561-237-9000 | lynn.edu/gingerbread

Become a sponsor!

Platinum sponsors: $5,000

($4,520 is tax-deductible)

•12 preferred seats

•Valet parking

•Champagne reception

•Name in the program

Gold sponsors: $2,500

($2,100 is tax-deductible)

•10 preferred seats

•Complimentary valet parking

•Champagne reception

•Name in the program

Silver sponsors: $1,500

($1,180 is tax-deductible)

•8 preferred seats

•Complimentary valet parking

•Champagne reception

•Name in the program

Bronze sponsors: $1,000

($840 is tax-deductible)

•4 preferred seats

•Complimentary valet parking

•Champagne reception

•Name in the program

Reserve your sponsorship online: lynn.edu/support-gingerbread

+1 561-237-7745 | lmiller@lynn.edu

PERFORMANCE • EVENTS • EXHIBITIONS

THE GREATER BOCA RATON CULTURAL CONSORTIUM, INC.

Boca Ballet Theatre 561-995-0709 mail@bocaballet.org

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

National Society of Arts and Letters judiasselta@gmail.com

Sugar Sand Park 561-347-3900 sugarsandpark@myboca.us

The Studio in Mizner Park (561) 203-3742 info@thestudioatmiznerpark.com

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

BACKSTAGE PASS

Florida Grand Opera’s upcoming production of “Silent Night” (see page 107)

The public never had a view of the water before. It now is this activated space that nobody’s had in Palm Beach for 50 or 75 years since it was built.”

—Jill Glazer

Jill Glazer & Allison Stockel

Meet the ladies behind the community-minded rebirth of Palm Beach’s legendary performing-arts center

Written by JOHN THOMASON

For decades beginning in 1958, the Royal Poinciana Playhouse was the place to be for the glitterati of Palm Beach. Built on waterfront land once occupied by Henry Flagler’s pioneering Royal Poinciana Hotel, the theater presented original theatrical productions and, later, hosted touring Broadway shows. Countless matinee idols graced its stage—Rex Harrison, Ginger Rogers, Dina Merrill and James Earl Jones among them.

Affected in part by the emergence of competing performing-arts centers such as the Kravis in the 1990s, this cultural staple has remained dormant since 2004, when its lease with Clear Channel expired. It has resisted multiple attempts, including from such notable champions as the late actor Christopher Plummer, to revitalize it—until now.

Renamed Glazer Hall in honor of Jill and Avie Glazer, the Palm Beach couple that has invested some $15 million into its renovation, the building is set to enter a new chapter in its storied history as it begins to welcome new visitors no later than January 2026.

“I think it was 18 years [vacant] by the time my husband came home one day and said, you know, ‘the building’s been sitting there like that, and we should do something about it,’”recalls Jill Glazer, who has lived on the island with Avie since 2002.“And so that’s what started this conversation.”

Five-and-a-half years, and many more conversations, later, Glazer Hall is in the final stages of construction as of this writing, at an estimated total cost of $30 million. The Glazers serve as co-chairmen of the board for the 24,000-square-foot facility, with Allison Stockel, a veteran performing-arts programmer who previously ran a 500-seat playhouse in Ridgefield, Conn., brought on as executive director.

Their excitement for the 400-seat jewel box of a venue is palpable and infectious.“The public never had a view of the water before in the building,” Glazer says.“Now you walk in, you see the beautiful water straight ahead of you, through the big window in the back. So it now is this activated space that nobody’s had in Palm Beach for 50 or 75 years since it was built.”

Legendary architect John Volk designed the original Royal Poinciana Playhouse. Does Glazer Hall nod to his designs in any way?

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Glazer Hall WHERE: 70 Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach CONTACT : 561/576-7860, glazerhall.org

GLAZER: There were no rules in terms of the inside of the landmark building and the renovation. So we could have made it cinderblock, or we could have made it as modern as possible, but we wanted to keep the intention of John Volk. The box office is built back in the exact same place and proportions, and using a lot of the same fretwork. There was a lot of red [in the Royal Poinciana Playhouse], and now there’s red

detail. The steps that were in the front—we call them the John Volk steps—we’ve brought those back as well.

Why were you able to succeed in this revitalization where others had not?

GLAZER: I think we were willing to take it on, and be creative. I think [others] were trying to do just theatre, or just this or just that, and we are activating it for multiuse and as a private space as well. We’re outfitting it with all kinds of electronics. We have a sprung floor for dance. It’s really going to be a community space, and the

community in Palm Beach has changed. We want it to be a place for all. For four and a half years that we were on a listening tour, we’d talk to anyone. We learned something new every day from talking to people.

Given Palm Beach’s changing demographics toward younger families, what does that mean for the programming of Glazer Hall?

STOCKEL: We want to be something that everyone can come to. So in terms of programming, everything from ballet to comedy to speakers, jazz and pop—there’s going to be everything. Jill and I have even been talking about some emerging artists that are going to be up and coming. Some of the shows that I really love are the ones like American Ballet Theatre, where grandparents can take their grandkids to it, because it’s so accessible to everybody—or the Chinese acrobats, or “Masters of Illusion.”Those are things that everybody loves, whether you’re 2 or 92.

Can you speak to the flexibility of the space, and the freedom it allows?

STOCKEL: It’s an amazing and unusual situation to have a theater of this size that can do so many different things. It could be an event space, it can be reconfigured for a cabaret show, and then the next day, it could be a full-on theatrical show. We have this wonderful in-house caterer where we can have a speaker and a lunch. So that flexibility is something that we’re planning on taking advantage of.

GLAZER: We want to do something with food and culture and

music—maybe it’s a French theme, or a New Orleans theme, three or four of those in a season. People are excited. I mean, it’s hard to find reservations in town these days!

Are you planning a gala opening, and have you set a date for it?

STOCKEL: We don’t have a date set just yet, and we are working on getting a really great name. We’re thinking sometime in March, once we’ve gone through some shows. We want to make sure everything’s perfect. But we’re planning to have Judy Collins,“The Music of ABBA,” the Preservation Hall Jazz Band—we’ve got wonderful shows happening in January and February. We have Chazz Palminteri coming with his one-man show,“A Bronx Tale,” and we’ll have another one-woman show about Ruth Bader Ginsburg. We’ll have a cabaret series, with Tony Danza and Megan Hilty, opera with Renée Fleming, the Irish Tenors, comedian Paula Poundstone.

GLAZER: And film is going to be big. That was very important to my husband. Because we don’t have any left in West Palm. They took the last [cinema] down at CityPlace, and so people are starving for film.

Top, renderings of Glazer Hall; left, Jill and Avie Glazer; right, Allison Stockel

Mark Your Calendars

Juliet without Romeo, Beat Generation art, presidential photography and jazz royalty—the 2025-2026 cultural calendar has it all, plus an Alicia Keys musical, a Christmas miracle, a Broadway legend and a new era for Miami City Ballet. Discover our curated selections for another arts season in paradise.

Written by JOHN THOMASON

“KIND OF BLUE: CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF MILES DAVIS”

Miles Davis’ contribution to American music cannot be overstated. Over the course of more than 60 studio albums, the innovative trumpeter had a transformative hand in hard-bop jazz, third stream and jazz-rock fusion. In this concert honoring the centenary of Davis’ birth, two giants of contemporary jazz—Grammy-winning trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire and saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, whose father John launched his career in Davis’ band before ascending to his own stratospheric heights—will perform highlights from Davis’ illustrious career. 8 p.m. Nov. 7 at Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami; 305/9496722, arshtcenter.org

“BEETHOVEN X BEYONCÉ”

Ludwig van Beethoven and Beyoncé Knowles were born 211 years apart, but we’d like to imagine them as kindred spirits. After all, they’re both single-named creators whose music is both popular and conceptual, pushing the boundaries of their genres’ forebears. Steve Hackman would agree. No stranger to hybridizing classical and pop music, this conductor, composer, songwriter and pianist previously synthesized music from Brahms and Radiohead, and Tchaikovsky and Drake, in new ways. In this entry in New World Symphony’s Late Night series, Hackman will conduct Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 7” with portions of 15 Beyoncé songs woven into the masterpiece.

9 p.m. Nov. 7 at New World Center, 500 17th St., Miami Beach; 305/6733330, nws.edu

“KIMBERLY

AKIMBO”

Like “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Jagged Little Pill” before them, “Kimberly Akimbo” follows a recent trend of youth-centric, adult-approved musicals that explore dysfunctional families and the heartache and frustrations of modern teenage life. The protagonist, Kimberly Levaco, suffers from a rare condition that causes her to age rapidly. By 16, she resembles an elderly woman but maintains friendships with a peer group of misfit teens at her New Jersey skate park. A budding romance is complicated by additional dramas in Kimberly’s life, including her father’s alcoholism, her mother’s focus on her second pregnancy, and the reappearance of Kimberly’s criminal aunt Debra, who ropes Kim and her friends into her latest get-richquick scheme. This Kravis run marks the first Broadway tour for the show, which won four Tonys in 2023. Nov. 11-16 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org

JOAN MARCUS

Ambrose Akinmusire Ravi Coltrane

“Kimberly Akimbo”

PHOTO COURTESY

ERIN OBRIAN

Conductor Steve Hackman

“EDGAR DEGAS, THE PRIVATE IMPRESSIONIST”

Infatuated with dance, athleticism and the curves and angles of the human body, Edgar Degas stood apart from his Impressionist contemporaries in late-19th century France. He preferred the term “realist,” a descriptor borne out by the masterful attention to detail he brought to his many subjects. “The Private Impressionist” underlines Degas’ singularity in the art culture of his time. Its 24 drawings, 23 prints, eight photographs and one sculpture reveal artworks Degas created mainly for himself and close friends, with no intention to sell or display them.

Nov. 15-Feb. 1 at Society of the Four Arts, 102 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach; 561/655-7227, fourarts.org

“ANASTASIA SAMOYLOVA: ATLANTIC COAST”

In 1954, photographer Berenice Abbott embarked on one of the 20th century’s most artistic road trips. Beginning in Key West, she traveled the entire length of U.S. 1, culminating at the end of the road in Maine. Along the way, Abbott snapped more than 2,400 images that captured life on the American east coast. For “Atlantic Coast,” buzzworthy Miami-based photographer Anastasia Samoylova retraces Abbott’s route along the still-iconic highway, expanding upon her inspiration’s unvarnished portraits of her adopted country’s myriad places, cultures and denizens. A meditation on the myths that have made America, “Atlantic Coast” is the latest powerful series from the Russian-born artist, whose previous photography suite, “Floridas,” presented the state in all its messy complexity.

Nov. 15-March 1 at Norton Museum of Art, 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach; 561/832-5196, norton.org

FLORIDA GRAND OPERA: “SILENT NIGHT”

This contemporary opera from librettist Mark Campbell dramatizes a real-life Christmas miracle in wartime. It’s set in the trenches during the first year of World War I, in which an intrepid German soldier sets down his rifle, emerges into No Man’s Land, and sings “Silent Night.” His action spurs the Allies to lay down their weapons, too, and engage in an unauthorized, one-day communion with the enemy: exchanging gifts, sharing stories, playing soccer. An adventurous score from composer Kevin Puts propels the action. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 and 6 at Broward Center, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/4620222, browardcenter.org

“IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY”

A year after its 1946 premiere on the Silver Screen, Frank Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” enjoyed its second life, if you will, as a radio drama by the leading purveyor of that fading art form, Luxe Radio Theater. Given the podcast boom of the 21st century, such a move was both of its time and ahead of it: Listeners today are well accustomed to “theater of the mind” storytelling, and are thus primed to appreciate this latest stylized take on the holiday classic. As part of its 10th anniversary season, New City Players will mount “It’s a Wonderful Life” in homage to those old-timey radio origins, complete with 1940s-style microphones and other props, and sound effects created the old-fashioned way: by hand, with tools, in front of a live audience.

Dec. 18-21 at General Provision, 300 S.W. First Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/376-6114, newcityplayers.org

“Before the Race” by Edgar Degas

“Woman in Pink Hat” from “Atlantic Coast”

“Guards” from “Atlantic Coast”

“Silent Night”

JEFF ROFFMAN

JOHN ADAMS WITH DENÈVE & ÓLAFSSON

An eminence in contemporary classical music, John Adams has won Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer for work spanning more than five decades. He has written for operas and orchestras, choral groups and electronic musicians, often centering his music on historical themes. In this retrospective of his work, Adams will co-conduct, alongside New World Symphony Artistic Director Stéphane Denève, four of his pieces, including “The Chairman Dances,” a ballet that imagines a foxtrot between Chairman and Madame Mao, and the “Doctor Atomic Symphony,” inspired by J. Robert Oppenheimer. Acclaimed pianist Víkingur Ólafsson will solo on “After the Fall,” a new Adams piece. 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17, 2 p.m. Jan. 18 at New World Center, 500 17th St., Miami Beach; 305/673-3330, nws.edu

“BIJOUX!”

What did artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali and Man Ray have in common? For one, they had an interest in jewelry, conceiving wearable art with the same exacting technique and boundless creativity as their paintings or sculptures. So do the artists of “BIJOUX!,” a contemporary jewelry exhibition whose invitees work in this most functional of mediums. Jewelry artists from around the world will showcase their items, which visitors will be permitted to try on.

Jan. 13-17 at the Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 954/910-5826, thestudioatmiznerpark.com

“& JULIET”

What if Juliet, heroine of William Shakespeare’s star-crossed romance, decided not to follow her beloved into the author’s “untimely frost”? That’s the premise for this coming-of-age jukebox musical, which revises the Bard’s tragedy with the language of millennial music. Shakespeare himself, and his wife, Anne Hathaway, are characters in the musical, with the latter suggesting an alternate ending for her husband’s play in which Juliet lives on, discovers her late partner’s bisexual history of relationships, and is ordered to a convent she has no intention of attending. Instead, she finds new love, only to discover that her old beau didn’t exactly shake off his mortal coil, despite evidence to the contrary. Shakespeare scholars might want to let their hair down for this one, whose 30-plus songs include hits from Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry and Kelly Clarkson. Jan. 13-25 at Broward Center, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

“& Juliet”

John Adams

“Blind Diver” necklace from “BIJOUX!”

THE SYMPHONIA: “EBENUS”

The thrill of the unknown drives this special program from the Symphonia. A world-premiere concerto for clarinet and orchestra, “EBENUS” is a rare cross-continental collaboration between two composers of global renown: Kinan Azmeh of Syria and Christophe Chagnard of France. Of Azmeh’s work, the Los Angeles Times offered praise that bordered on the carnal—“[his] clarinet [is] able to seduce with a rare intimacy and explode in ecstasy”—while Chagnard addresses themes such as racism, climate change and social injustice through his original works. “EBENUS” will support the artists’ belief in music as a healing universal language.

Jan. 24-25 at the Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 954/910-5826, thestudioatmiznerpark.com

NEKO CASE

“MALCOLM X JAZZ SUITE”

Since 1991, trumpeter Terence Blanchard has scored 14 of Spike Lee’s movies, among them “Malcolm X,” Lee’s visionary epic about the slain civil rights activist. Fixated on Malcolm long after the credits rolled, Blanchard went on to rearrange, record and release his “Malcolm X Suite” as a small-band quintet album a year later. Blanchard has continued to revive and refine the soulful suite in the decades since. In this concert, hosted a day before what would have been Malcolm X’s 100th birthday, Blanchard will perform it with a string quartet.

8 p.m. Feb. 20 at Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami

In the nearly 30 years since Americana siren Neko Case recorded her debut album in 1997, she has never played a concert in South Florida—until now. Such are the vagaries of too many tour itineraries: We’re just not a convenient stop. The reception for her long-awaited debut, then, is sure to be rhapsodic, as she plays music from a career that began in the echoes of traditional country music—her first album earned comparisons to Patsy Cline and Wanda Jackson—to experimental art rock and jazz-inflected balladry. Her records continue to defy easy categorization, but all are anchored by her instantly recognizable contralto voice, which has been colorfully likened to a flamethrower, a 120-mph fastball and a tornado. We can’t wait to see the storm she kicks up in her first performance in the Magic City. Jan. 31 at Venue TBA, Miami; info TBD

PALM BEACH OPERA: “THE PEARL FISHERS”

It’s a tale as old as time: Two guys have a thing for the same gal. In the case of George Bizet’s opera “The Pearl Fishers,” the guys are Zurga, newly elected leader of a fishing village in present-day Sri Lanka; and Nadir, his childhood friend, with whom he reunites at the beginning of the story. When they were younger, both needed only a glimpse to fall in love with Leila, a veiled Hindu princess, and both vowed that they would never

pursue their desires for her, lest it destroy their friendship. Naturally, Leila reappears in their lives, with a vow of chastity to maintain her oath in the priesthood. All intentions around this swirling love triangle will be tested in an opera that, in its 1863 premiere, helped put its then-25-year-old composer on the international map.

Feb. 20-22 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org

“CONVERSA”

Theatre Lab opens 2026 with a powerful new work from playwright Joanna Castle Miller. The narrative ripples of “CONVERSA” stretch back to the Inquisition, as the play’s title refers to Jews who converted to Christianity to avoid being exiled from their homeland. Its echoes are felt in this autobiographically grounded one-woman show. “CONVERSA” follows Joanna, whose mother, despite her rabbinical aspira-

tions, converted to evangelicalism through Jews for Jesus. Joanna followed her mother into the Christian faith, even serving as a missionary. We witness the upending of her worldview when she visits a tiny Jewish village where her great-grandfather once confronted a similar dilemma regarding his faith.

Feb. 7-22 at Theatre Lab at FAU, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton; 561/297-4784, fauevents.com

PHOTO COURTESY ARTIST MANAGEMENT

Kinan Azmeh

Terence Blanchard

Neko Case

FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS BOCA

“Legends, Luminaries and the Unexpected” is the tagline for next year’s Festival of the Arts Boca, an accurate pitch for the event’s landmark 20th-anniversary lineup of artists, entertainers, authors and thinkers. The fest opens Feb. 27 with Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, a loose-knit collective that has accrued more than 2 billion YouTube views for its throwback renditions of contemporary pop tunes: Think the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” performed in Andrews Sisters-style three-part harmony, or U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” performed as a ‘60s-evoking soul classic. Other highlights include a screening of “Jurassic Park” with live orchestration, virtuoso pianist Conrad Tao, the return of presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, and a finale from Broadway legend Patti LuPone.

Feb. 27-March 8 at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 561/571-5270, festivalboca.org

MIAMI CITY BALLET:

“INTO

THE MAGIC CITY”

This season marks a pivotal one for Miami City Ballet—it is the company’s first season under a new artistic director, Gonzalo Garcia, and it also marks MCB’s 40th anniversary. To celebrate, this winter program nods both to the past and to the future, as well as to the city it calls home. It will feature George Balanchine’s 1935 masterpiece “Serenade,” the first full-length ballet he premiered after immigrating to the United States. The plotless ballet, with its famous blue tutus, is set to a sweeping Tchaikovsky serenade. It will be followed by a world-premiere work from Alexei Ratmansky—a love letter to Miami and MCB’s founder, Toby Lerner Ansin, that marries tradition with modernity.

Feb. 28-March 1 at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach; 561/832-7469, kravis.org

“CAPTURING THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY”

Doug Mills has long been a witness to history in America’s halls of power. As chief photographer for the Associated Press in Washington, and then as senior photographer in the New York Times’ Washington Bureau, Mills has photographed every president since Ronald Reagan, winning three Pulitzers in the process. His most iconic shots include the moment George W. Bush learned about the attacks on Sept. 11 to the assassination attempt against then-candidate Donald Trump in Butler, Penn.; the latter, which seemed to capture a bullet in flight toward Trump’s ear, was described by his newspaper’s photo analyst as a “one in a million shot.” Mills will discuss his career in a live symposium to accompany FAU Galleries’ exhibition of his work, running Jan. 22-March 29 at the Schmidt Center Gallery.

4 p.m. Feb. 26 at University Theatre at FAU, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton; 561/297-4784, fauevents.com

CHRISTIAN LOCKERMAN AND THE WARHOL CREATIVE.

DOUG MILLS

Patti LuPone

Presidential photography by Doug Mills

Promotional image for “Into the Magic City”

“HELL’S

KITCHEN”

Alicia Keys penned the music and lyrics for this acclaimed jukebox musical—considered by many to be a pinnacle of the genre—that draws from her upbringing in the titular Manhattan neighborhood. Ali, the 17-year-old at the center of the show, struggles with a combative relationship with her mother, her budding sexuality, institutional racism and the terminal illness of a mentor, all while pursuing her passion for the piano. With its streetwise sets, costumes, onstage percussion and memorable music—some written for the show, and others, like “Girl on Fire” and “Fallin’,” taken from Keys’ chart-topping archive—“Hell’s Kitchen” would win two Tonys in 2024. It makes its South Florida touring debut this coming spring.

March 10-22 at Broward Center, 201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale; 954/462-0222, browardcenter.org

“

EXPLORING JESS: BEAT GENERATION VISIONARY”

A staple of San Francisco’s Mission District in the 1950s and beyond, painter Jess—born Jess Collins and later dropping his surname—is one of the more underrated artists to emerge out of the 1950s Beat Generation. With his longtime partner, poet Robert Duncan, Jess was a fixture at poetry readings and gallery shows, where he exhibited his unusual paintings and collages, maximalist work that integrated concepts of alchemy, chemistry, the occult, literature and popular culture. His collage series of what he termed “Paste-Ups,” for instance, wove comic strips, magazine illustrations, tarot cards, puzzle pieces and other ephemera into visionary new shapes. This rare survey explores Jess’ surrealist early years and his impact on the Beats.

March 25-Oct. 11 at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton; 561/392-2500, bocamuseum.org

BUZZCOCKS

In one of those coincidences that symbolized a musical changing of the guard, Manchester punk band Buzzcocks signed with major label United Artists on the very day that Elvis Presley died: Aug. 16, 1977. Besides an ear for melody, the young English lads shared little with the American proto-rocker; instead of exuding sexuality in their music, Buzzcocks critiqued self-destructive sex addiction in sing-alongs like “Orgasm Addict;” Presley played a racecar-driving bachelor in the movie “Spinout,” while Buzzcocks railed against the need for speed in “Fast Cars,” a tune that name-checked Ralph Nader. While Buzzcocks’ initial run of masterpieces lasted only from 1976 to 1981, their caffeinated, funny, accessible poppunk discordance left a legacy that’s still being mined today. Original singer Peter Shelley died in 2018, but founding guitarist Steve Diggle has ably taken over vocal duties as the band’s linchpin. They make a rare South Florida appearance as part of their 50th anniversary tour.

7:30 p.m. April 2 at Culture Room, 3045 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale; 954/564-1074, cultureroom.net

Buzzcocks’

“THE CRUCIBLE”

The phrase “witch hunt” has become a term of art in our politics, but in 17th century Massachusetts, the threat of being adjudicated for witchcraft was quite literal. It led to accusations leveled against more than 200 people, 19 of whom were executed. Arthur Miller took inspiration for the Salem Witch Trials for his 1953 masterwork “The Crucible,” in which the pagan rituals of a group of women in the Puritan colony of Salem come under investigation by a local preacher. Miller, who also wrote “Death of a Salesman,” considered “The Crucible” his finest play.

April 3-19 at Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St., West Palm Beach; 561/514-4042, palmbeachdramaworks.org

MARC

J. FRANKLIN

“Hell’s Kitchen”

“Game’s Up” by Jess

Steve Diggle

Arthur Miller

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20TH 5:30PM - 7:30PM

RAIN DATE NOVEMBER 21 ST

BOCA RATON INNOVATION CAMPUS (BRiC)

5000 T-REX AVE

FREE Admission with Unwrapped Toy Donation

VIP Tent $60

$16 Child (under 16)

Celebrate our 10th anniversary aboard The Polar Express with activities and performances like you've never seen before, including:

Meet & Greet with Santa, Mrs. Claus & their Elves

Outdoor Screening of The Polar Express

Puppy Cuddle & Adoption Area

Trackless Train Rides

Food Truck Lane, now including a hot chocolate station

PROCEEDS BENEFITTING

RSVP

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

WE NEED YOUR HELP.

Children are being exploited and abused. Families are facing homelessness and are desperate for a safe place to call home.

We will not let them suffer anymore.

N either will Place of Hope. Together we have launched a campaign to help.

Please join us and Place of Hope and take action today.

Their names may be familiar, but their talents, expertise, and professions continue to inspire and inform.

Discover more about these remarkable FACES who enrich our community with their contributions and leave us with lessons worth remembering.

The 561 Face of Luxury Diamonds

David Rosenberg Founder, President, Diamantaire, Rosenberg Diamonds & Co.

The popularity of some gems may ebb and flow, but, to quote a phrase, a diamond is forever. “Diamonds are still the ultimate symbol and status of power and wealth, and they’re still the most sought-after and the rarest of all gems,” says David Rosenberg.

As the founder of Rosenberg Diamonds and Co., he would know. His 2,400-square-foot luxury boutique across from Royal Palm Place celebrates its 20th anniversary in Boca Raton in 2026. Its lasting power derives from Rosenberg’s impeccable reputation as a diamantaire, with a clientele that includes high- and ultra-high-networth individuals, celebrities and royalty.

“We are sticklers to detail to begin with,” he says. “Our vertically integrated position from mine to retail affords us a unique position; we only pick the very best within each category. Once someone presents a size and shape that they aspire to purchase, we make sure that every single detail is to perfection within the combination of color and clarity. We provide the highest quality of high jewels and customer experience while preserving great value.”

Rosenberg is welcoming the next generation of diamantaire. His son Jonathan, 22, was “born into the business,” Rosenberg says. Jonathan grew up traveling and accompanies his father on trips to mines and diamond cutting factories around the world. The next generation of Rosenberg Diamonds will be in good hands, right here in Boca Raton.

ROSENBERG DIAMONDS & CO.

561-477-5444

rosenbergdiamonds.com

David Rosenberg

Jonathan Rosenberg

Jessica Chen

Dr. Gordon Chen

THE 561 Faces of Longevity Medicine

Drs. Gordon & Jessica Chen co-founders of BLU by ThriveWell™

When Dr. Gordon Chen’s father was given two months to live in 2003, Gordon and his then-fiancée Jessica held an emergency wedding so his dad could attend. Hours later came what Gordon calls “the best wedding present”—the cancer was treatable.

But navigating the chaotic healthcare system that followed opened their eyes and led them to transform patient care with senior-focused primary care clinics at ChenMed. When they saw the impact of early, proactive care, they expanded to help more people optimize not just lifespan but healthspan—the years lived free from disease. “People don’t want more sick, suffering years,” says Dr. Chen. “People want more healthy years.”

At BLU by ThriveWell™ in Fort Lauderdale, they’ve built a “longevity community” centered on 5 Drivers of Health & Wellness©: Personal, Community, Physical, Nutritional, and Spiritual. The facility houses everything from stateof-the-art health testing to hyperbaric oxygen chambers, with members flying in from as far as Spain.

Jessica, an Internal Medicine physician and diplomat of the Board of Anti-Aging and Metabolic Medicine, specializes in women’s hormone health. Together, they craft personalized roadmaps using genetic testing, VO2 Max analysis, and advanced bone density and body composition scans.

Some members see dramatic changes within months, trimming visceral fat—a key heart disease marker—by up to 30 percent. One 76-year-old member set a goal to stay healthy until 96. In just a year, he’s 25 pounds lighter and improved his fitness.

“We’re not in the business of sick care,” says. Dr Chen. “We’re in the business of helping you thrive for a lifetime, so every year can be your healthiest yet.”

Frederic J. Norkin, DMD

André De Souza, DMD Liliana Aranguren, DDS, MDSc

Jeffrey Ganeles, DMD, FACD

The 561 Faces of Healthy Smiles and Dental Implant Solutions

South Florida Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

The South Florida Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is known for clinically proven technologies that advance treatment, support patient satisfaction and comfort, and provide predictable, high-quality outcomes.

The Center’s cohesive team of all board-certified dentists continually stay ahead of the curve with advanced procedures and technologies, including the TeethToday® immediate tooth replacement, 3D digital X-rays, in-office optical scanning, 3D printing, LANAP® laser-assisted gum surgery, Pinhole® gum grafting, regenerative endoscopic periodontal regeneration, accelerated orthodontics, permanent solutions to “gummy smiles” and much more. They are also the first practice in the world to offer Yomi® robotic-assisted surgery, the first and only FDAapproved robotic system designed for dental implant surgery.

Whether you need to maintain your natural teeth with laserassisted gum treatment, replace missing teeth with robotically placed dental implants and immediate restorations, restore lost jawbone structure, or enhance your smile with gum repositioning, the doctors excel in these areas. Their world-class training and vast experience make the team uniquely qualified to help patients overcome complications encountered with previous treatment.

The Center’s doctors are also renowned worldwide for clinical advances, enhancements and excellence, and have contributed to textbooks, dozens of scientific, peer-reviewed articles and hundreds of professional presentations sharing their developments and techniques.

The welcoming office includes digital technology, sedation options and a skilled team, combined with a commitment to superior, individualized, efficient and excellent results. Financing options are available if needed. Patients do not need a referral for an appointment. It simply takes a phone call to schedule an evaluation.

SOUTH FLORIDA CENTER FOR PERIODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY

561-912-9993

Flsmile.com

Samuel Zfaz, DDS

Ovadia Chocron, DMD

The Face of Educating and Advising Wealth Clients

Elizabeth M. Bennett, MBA Principal and Certified Financial Planner™

Intercoastal Wealth Planning

As head of Intercoastal Wealth Planning in Boca Raton, Certified Financial Planner™ Elizabeth Bennett shares her insights from nearly 35 years in finance with a wide range of clients, helping them to understand the everfluctuating market, and designing custom plans to steer them toward financial freedom and independence.

“We know volatile markets can be unnerving, and we are keeping a close eye on the fluctuations. More importantly, we’re watching to see if any new long-term trends emerge that may affect how your portfolio is allocated,” Bennett notes. “When markets fall, it’s easy to forget that downtrends are part of the investing cycle. Therefore, when prices slip, it’s a good time to review some common terms that describe today’s financial markets.

“The first is ‘pullback,’ the mildest form of a drop in the markets. You might hear a market commentator refer to a dip of 5% to 10% after a peak as a pullback. “The next term is ‘correction,’ which is used when markets drop 10% to 20% after a peak. Then there is a ‘bear market,’ where the drop is 20% or more since the last peak.

“When prices are trending lower, it’s easy to secondguess yourself. But over the years, I’ve found that doesn’t help. “We’ve aligned your investment strategy with your goals, time horizon and risk tolerance. We built your portfolio anticipating that there will be good times and bad.

“If you find yourself thinking ‘this time, it’s different,’ please reach out as soon as possible. It’s important that you feel comfortable with our approach, and we’d be happy to talk with you,” says Bennett.

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The 561 Face of Advanced Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Amanda Sindledecker Sindledecker Dentistry

“Transform your smile, transform your life!” Experience the confidence and happiness that comes with healthy teeth and a radiant smile. Dr. Amanda Sindledecker provides expert care that empowers you to live your best life! Personalized attention, outstanding professionalism, compassionate care and a commitment to excellence is the mission of Sindledecker Dentistry.

“Health, caring, and excellence” started with Dr. Larry and Dr. Maxine Sindledecker when they opened their office in Boca Raton in 1975. Dr. Amanda Sindledecker joined the practice 17 years ago and continues to provide the highest standards of care to all her patients. She is proud to be living her second-generation legacy as a blessing in the downtown historic building on Palmetto Park Road.

“I’m passionate about cosmetic smile makeovers! Working in tandem with my excellent staff, and my personal ceramist, we confidently create porcelain veneers, ceramic restorations and dental implants to restore smiles and happy faces,” explains Dr. Amanda. “I truly love helping my patients gain confidence and smile more. I create the smile design on an individual basis to give the most natural and beautiful version of that person. As one patient said, ‘It’s more than just teeth. It’s a life transformation!’”

Her team of excellent hygienists, experienced certified dental assistants, and dentists pride themselves on outstanding service with comfort and caring.

Dr. Amanda provides esthetic services that also include facial and lip enhancement using Botox, Dysport, dermal fillers and the latest advanced Helix laser to resurface and tighten the skin. Her outstanding facial esthetician, Nancy Rozs, is a licensed medical esthetician and skin care specialist. “Our transformative services will exceed your expectations,” she adds.

SINDLEDECKER DENTISTRY

561-368-2928 mybocadentist.com

The 561 Face of Eclectic Arts & Culture

Peg Anderson

The Studio at Mizner Park

The Studio at Mizner Park is where celebrities like to let their hair down, so to speak. The 297-seat black-box venue is so cozy that its performers—which have included pop star Taylor Dayne, rocker Gary Puckett, “American Idol” winner Ruben Studdard, and comedian Tim Meadows—can lock eyes with their fans. Singer-actor Alan Cumming stayed to enjoy a karaoke encore party after his shows at the Studio.

“The performers get into a real comfort zone here,” says Peg Anderson, chairman of the board for the Studio at Mizner Park. “They can engage with the audience rather than just being up on a big stage someplace.”

The versatile theater, which opened in 2022, maintains a year-round schedule of live entertainment, while the venue’s second space hosts private banquets, meetings, art shows, weddings, and other gatherings in its flexible, 4,575-square-foot South Room and Gallery. In January of 2026, this newly renovated space will play host, for the first time, to “BIJOUX!,” an annual, immersive showcase of artists’ jewelry that began in Manhattan three decades ago. Jewelry artists will fly in from around the world to attend the sale and exhibition.

Whether it’s an international event like “BIJOUX,” a community event for the School District of Palm Beach County, or an A-list star in an unusually intimate setting, the Studio is ready for anything as it enters the 2025-2026 cultural season. “There’s such a positive energy here,” Anderson says. “The guests feel it. When they come for an event or a show, they feel that positive energy. You don’t find that everywhere.”

The Studio prides itself on being actively engaged members of a vibrant community, enjoying a collaborative relationship with Boca’s local arts, culture, and fellow nonprofit organizations.

THE STUDIO AT MIZNER PARK 954-910-5826 thestudioatmiznerpark.org

THE 561 FACE OF HOSPITAL LEADERSHIP

Dr. Bill Holubek Chief Medical Officer, Boca Raton Regional Hospital

After spending a decade as an emergency room doctor, Dr. Bill Holubek has seen it all, from premature babies and traumatic injuries to psychological crises and neurosurgery. This fastpaced experience was his training ground for his role as the Boca Raton Regional Hospital’s new chief medical officer.

“The ER is the front door for the majority of people that come here,” Holubek says. “Understanding that environment and being able to speak and build rapport quickly with a bunch of different people really prepared me to be an effective chief medical officer.” Previously, Holubek was the chief medical officer at University Hospital in Newark, NJ, the primary teaching site for Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, where he also earned his medical degree. In addition, he holds an executive Master’s degree in public health from Columbia University. When the opportunity came to move to Boca Raton in November 2024, the quality of care, trajectory of the hospital, and collaborative hospital team made the decision easy.

“The growth that this hospital and the Baptist Health system are undergoing is really what attracted me to coming here,” Holubek says. “From the Lynn Cancer Institute to the Marcus Neuroscience Institute to the sports medicine and orthopedics that we offer, it’s really grown and has the ability to grow further.”

“Our ultimate goal is to be the hospital of choice for not just everyone in Boca Raton, but everyone in the region. We want to be a destination for people to seek care.” Holubek says. “It’s amazing the advancement that this hospital has seen over the past couple of decades, starting out as a community hospital and now being a regional hospital offering very advanced medical and innovative technologies.”

BOCA RATON REGIONAL HOSPITAL

561-955-7100

donate.brrh.com

The 561 Face of Radiant, Timeless Skin at its Finest

Janet Allenby, DO

Allenby Cosmetic Dermatology

Board-certified with decades of expertise, Dr. Janet Allenby offers a comprehensive range of cosmetic dermatology services—including skin rejuvenation, facial balancing and body sculpting. Her mission is to help patients look and feel their best by addressing the visible signs of aging and enhancing both facial and body aesthetics.

Dr. Allenby utilizes cutting-edge technologies, advanced injectables, medical-grade skin care and a growing array of specialized laser devices to restore youthful, healthy radiance. “Many people still associate cosmetic dermatology solely with fillers—and a lot of them are experiencing ‘filler fatigue’”.

“I take time to carefully assess each patient and create a personalized plan using the right tools for their individual concerns and goals. The aim is always to help them look healthier and more refreshed—not overdone.”

For patients who have lost youthful fullness due to weight loss medications, Dr. Allenby offers thread lifting procedures performed right in the office. This quick, minimally invasive treatment takes less than 20 minutes and provides noticeable, lasting results.

To tighten loose or sagging skin, she often recommends Ultherapy—an FDA-cleared, non-invasive ultrasound treatment that stimulates new collagen production, particularly on the neck, chin and brow. For those seeking a subtle lift and glow with minimal downtime, a custom combination of in-office skin treatments can deliver beautiful, long-lasting results with minimal discomfort.

“These treatments make wonderful holiday gift ideas for anyone looking to look naturally refreshed for the season,” Dr. Allenby suggests.

ALLENBY COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY & BODYSQUAD

561-532-6841

Allenbydermatology.com

The 561 Faces of Results-Driven Public Relations

Julie M. Mullen & Elizabeth Kelley Grace Co-Founders,

The Buzz Agency

For more than 16 years, The Buzz Agency has been behind some tangibly successful campaigns and needle-moving headlines—quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) shaping the public profiles of brands throughout South Florida. Now, with a new satellite office in Nashville and a renewed focus on digital content and creative outreach, the agency is evolving once again.

What began as a two-woman operation has grown into a dynamic, close-knit team of media strategists, content creators and big-picture thinkers. Their mission? To help clients connect— with audiences, with communities, and with the ever-shifting media landscape.

“Our sweet spot lies at the intersection of traditional PR and digital storytelling,” says Elizabeth Kelley Grace, co-founder. From crafting long-lead feature pitches to producing scrollstopping social reels, the team understands how to translate a message across platforms—and how to keep it interesting. Their industry portfolio is impressively varied—hospitality, aviation, retail, tourism, nonprofits—and so is their approach.

“We don’t offer a ‘one-size-fits-all’ formula,” says Julie Mullen, co-founder. “And that’s exactly how our clients like it.”

At the heart of The Buzz Agency is a collaborative spirit and a genuine belief in the power of a welltold story. The team thrives on tight turnarounds, big ideas, and the kind of creative energy that can only come from people who truly love what they do. With an eye on the future—and a finger firmly on the pulse—The Buzz Agency is building what’s next, one campaign at a time.

THE BUZZ AGENCY 561-779-2516 thebuzzagency.net

Elizabeth Kelley Grace

Julie Mullen

The 561 Face of Global Enterprise

Anna Medvedeva Owner, AM Management Group

South Florida is dynamic and fast-moving, and success here takes more than ambition—it requires vision, resolve, and respect for the values that shaped America. Anna Medvedeva, owner of AM Management Group in Boca Raton, brings all three to her work helping families, retirees, and international clients navigate real estate, business, and investment opportunities.

Her firm was founded to offer clear guidance for those starting new chapters or relocating from abroad. “People need someone who understands the system and can help them avoid common pitfalls,” Medvedeva says. “We’re here to give them confidence in their future.”

A single mother of four, Medvedeva knows the value of hard work and accountability. Her approach is hands-on, grounded in experience, and focused on solutions—not politics. She works closely with local realtors, attorneys, and business leaders to help clients make informed decisions.

Originally from Russia, she earned an Economics degree from Lomonosov Moscow State University before moving to the United States in 1999. Her journey from limited freedom to American opportunity shaped her deep appreciation for this country. “I chose America because it represents freedom, faith, and the chance to succeed,” she says.

Active in the Palm Beach Civic Association, Royal Poinciana Chapel, and Palm Beach Republican Club, Medvedeva values civic engagement, faith, and responsible leadership. Her decision to run for Congress reflects her commitment to fiscal discipline, smart growth, and protecting individual rights.

Her message is clear: unity over division, opportunity over dependency, and leadership that listens. For Floridians across the state, Anna Medvedeva offers a steady, thoughtful voice ready to serve.

AM MANAGEMENT GROUP

561-594-6522

theammanagementgroup.com

The 561 Face of Bilingual Luxury Real Estate Connections

Alexandra Gonzalez Realtor Associate, Fortune Christie’s International Real Estate

For Alexandra Gonzalez, real estate is more than business—it’s personal. She’s called South Florida home for years and loves helping others find their place here, too. Whether you’re relocating, upsizing, or looking for an investment, she brings market knowledge, bilingual support, and a deep connection to our communities.

With Fortune Christie’s International, Alexandra connects with global clients on large developments such as Cipriani Residences Miami and The Residences Mandarin Oriental Miami. She was among a few agents hand-picked to build the firm’s Palm Beach presence, and she now covers new developments and residential properties in the region from the Boca Raton office. With her finger on the pulse of high-end real estate, Alexandra is a unique resource for clients coming to our area. She understands that toprated school systems and family-focused amenities are as important as the vibrant South Florida lifestyle.

“I listen to my clients to curate their personal real estate journey as they make important decisions,” she says. “Fortune Christie’s International’s elite digital marketing campaigns, our extensive database, leads and 350-plus international broker alliances are behind me, too. I help clients from every stage of life, from single professionals making their first purchase to growing families and highnet worth individuals looking for a dream home.”

From Palm Beach to Miami, Alexandra is here to help you buy or sell with confidence. Her clients know they can count on her for transparency, negotiation skills, and a calm, steady hand throughout the process. Rooted in Boca’s culture and community and committed to client satisfaction, you can trust Alexandra to navigate your next real estate deal successfully.

FORTUNE CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

786-444-4870

afgonzalez@fir.com

The 561 FACE of Expert in Timeless Transitional Design

Ritzy Christensen

The Bô Casa

Ritzy Christensen sees herself as a storyteller in three dimensions, creating unforgettable narratives for her clients through her choices as an interior designer. “Each part of a space—like furniture, lighting and colors—plays an important role in telling a story and improving the overall experience,” she says. “Each project gives me a chance to create beautiful and practical spaces that reflect the clients’ personal tastes and dreams.”

Christensen discovered her aptitude for interior designer in 2004 while working as a banker in Dubai. When one of her clients, a sheikh, needed assistance designing model homes for a neighborhood she helped him purchase, Christensen stepped in as the project manager, surprising herself with how quickly she gained a passion for designing and elevating beautiful highend spaces. She ultimately earned a degree at New York School of Interior Design and opened The Bô Casa a few years ago in Boca Raton, where the clientele resonates with her specialties—neutral palettes and timeless bases with occasional bursts of color when appropriate. “Boca Raton represents elegance, luxury and a lively lifestyle that matches our stylish designs,” she says. “The clients here value great craftsmanship and beautiful interiors, making it the perfect setting for our special creations.”

For Christensen, current trends involve a minimalist hand, one that balances modern and classic elements—resulting, she says, “in spaces that feel both new and nostalgic. It’s all about combining their wishes with the lasting elegance of transitional design.”

THE BÔ CASA

310-773-8894

thebocasa.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

THE 561 FACE OF ARTISTIC ENDEAVORS

JOANNE BERKOW, FOUNDER & PRESIDENT, BENZAITEN CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS

JoAnne (JB) Berkow has been a professional artist her whole life. Her work is in many prestigious collections, including Palm Beach International Airport, Boston University’s Tsai Performance Center, and the Vatican. Dr. Walter Persigatti, curator for the Vatican Museums, after visiting her studio, wrote: “It is incredible how your spirit and soul can be expressed in such different ways and with such powerful explosions while at the same time with such gentle introspection.”

However, promoting her own work was never enough. At 26 she founded the first cooperative gallery in Washington, D.C., the Touchstone Gallery, to help emerging artists. Twenty years later, after establishing two more galleries in Florida, she is now tackling her biggest project yet, the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which is fast becoming a major tourist attraction in our county.

Ten years ago, she took over a block-long train depot in Lake Worth Beach, and with the help of her board, generous donors and grants, she was able to transform it into a world-class, fine art glass fabrication facility. Besides an expansive glass-blowing hot shop, there are flame-working, fusing, and glass-casting studios along with a fine art gallery and gift shop. The visiting “Artist Blow-Outs” (three-hour demos) are the talk of town, and during the summer, the center hosts 1,000 children and teens free of charge.

JB has also written four books, “Shades of Love,” “What They Didn’t Teach You In Art School,” “Painted Poetry” and “Confessions of a Coffeeholic.” Even though she became well known for her oil paintings of European landscapes, she now devotes her time to sculpting, which she casts in glass and embellishes with flameworked glass and paint.

BENZAITEN CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS

561-508-7315

Benzaitencenter.org

The 561 Face of South Florida Real Estate

Dorian Hayes

Coldwell Banker

Dorian Hayes is a seasoned real estate professional with a diverse range of expertise. Originally hailing from Michigan and New Jersey, she made her mark in South Florida two decades ago, initially as an Interior Designer and a Consultant collaborating closely with developers and builders. (Some may recognize her as the face of “Power Barre” Delray Beach; she founded one of the original barre studios in Florida.) Today, her influence extends statewide, catering to a discerning clientele.

Dorian’s portfolio is as diverse as her background. She enjoys working with developers and builders—representing luxury estates, equestrian farms and land. Beyond residential, she leverages her extensive network to assist clients with commercial and industrial sites, and she’s the go-to consultant for a top lobbying firm, maintaining a keen awareness of local and statewide legislation.

Always creating, Dorian continues to showcase her artistic flair as an experienced interior designer, adding a touch of magic to transform homes, ultimately achieving sale prices that exceed expectations. Studying and keeping current in all areas of the real estate industry further cements her commitment to her field.

She also actively engages in philanthropy, devoting her time to various local charities. Her active lifestyle is fueled by Pilates, tennis, and the joy of chasing after her grandchildren and furry companions.

“I love what I do, and my passion drives me to consistently raise the bar: for myself, for my family and for my cherished clients.”

COLDWELL BANKER

561-389-9117

Palmbeachlux.com

The 561 Face of plastic surgery

Dr. Rafael Cabrera, MD aesthetic & reconstructive plastic surgery

Dr. Rafael Cabrera is a distinguished plastic surgeon based in Boca Raton, bringing over 25 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. In an age where advanced options abound, he advocates for a tailored approach to aesthetic enhancements that goes beyond traditional invasive procedures. Dr. Cabrera serves as a trusted advisor, guiding individuals in selecting treatments that align with their unique anatomical characteristics and personal aspirations.

His practice encompasses a comprehensive range of surgical interventions for the face, neck, eyes, breasts, and abdomen. To achieve youthful contours, he frequently employs techniques to tighten muscles and ligaments, while utilizing natural tissues, such as autologous fat and stem cells, to address facial volume loss associated with aging. Additionally, Dr. Cabrera offers a variety of non-invasive solutions, including neurotoxins, fillers, and Emsculpt Neo, which combines high-frequency magnetic energy to promote muscle growth and radiofrequency to eliminate fat cells.

Dr. Cabrera prioritizes honesty, transparency, and patient safety in his practice. His commitment to patient well-being underpins his efforts to deliver transformative results that remain discreet and natural. He cautions against the unrealistic beauty standards propagated by social media and advocates for consultations with experienced aesthetic professionals to establish achievable goals.

Recognized for his expertise in reconstructive surgery, Dr. Cabrera specializes in treating skin cancers, including basal and squamous cell carcinomas and malignant melanoma. Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia in his accredited surgical facility, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for his patients.

AESTHETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE PLASTIC SURGERY

561-393-6400

pssbocaraton.com

The 561 Face of Legal Protection for Entrepreneurs

Rich Sierra, Esq.

Florida Small Business Legal Center

Rich Sierra is a business attorney with more than 20 years of experience representing entrepreneurs, professionals and small business owners across Florida. As founder of the Florida Small Business Legal Center, Sierra has built a practice dedicated exclusively to the legal needs of small businesses. From business formation and contract drafting to litigation, collections and resolving business disputes, the firm delivers practical legal solutions with a focus on protecting the interests of the business owner.

Sierra understands the unique challenges small business owners face, because he has been in their shoes. His approach is personal, strategic and grounded in real-world business sense. Whether you’re negotiating a commercial lease, buying or selling a business, or responding to a lawsuit, he and his team are committed to being trusted legal partners every step of the way.

He is also the author of “Business SOS! Eight Common Legal Mistakes Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them,” a must-read for any Florida entrepreneur. The book provides straightforward legal guidance to help owners protect what they’ve built.

As the host of the Business SOS! Podcast, Sierra shares legal insights, interviews business leaders, and discusses the most pressing issues affecting Florida business owners. With more than 100 episodes, the podcast has become a valuable resource for those looking to grow and protect their companies.

Located in Boca Raton, the firm proudly serves clients throughout the State of Florida. “To learn more about how I can assist you with your small business legal matters, visit our website or contact our office directly,” says Sierra.

FLORIDA

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The Faces of Haute & Historical High Design Interiors

Linda Ruderman

Interior Designer & Founder

Ashley Ruderman

Senior Designer & Project Manager

Linda Ruderman Interiors

Linda Ruderman has created award-winning interior designs for residential and commercial properties for more than three decades. Ruderman’s design degree and studies in architecture and furniture history have contributed to her unique niche and sought-after expertise in the design industry. She and her team at Linda Ruderman Interiors (LRI) have worked on projects ranging from the design and decoration of newly built construction to the complete restoration and renovation of historic landmark structures. From her hometown of Greenwich, NY and across the nation, Linda’s personal presence permeates every project, demonstrating her impeccable sense of design, attention to detail and ability to interpret classical models for today’s lifestyles.

“I am extremely client-centric and intimately involved in every single project, along with my incredibly talented team. I love working with clients to bring their visions to life,” says Ruderman.

Sharing Ruderman’s passion for design and impeccable work ethic is her daughter-in-law, Ashley Richmond Ruderman. “She is an integral part of our team and an immeasurable asset to me,” says Linda. Ashley’s roots have been firmly planted in Boca Raton for 24 years, where she is immersed in the vibrant culture, devoted family life and community involvement.

“As a senior designer and project manager for 15 years, each day at LRI allows me to apply my design and organizational skills in an industry that excites and inspires me,” says Ashley. “Linda brings her curated sense of style to her amazing projects, and I bring my modern-day perspective to the rewarding career I share with her.”

LINDA RUDERMAN INTERIORS

561-565-5002  lindaruderman.com

The 561 Face of the Elevated & Accessible Beauty Experience

Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike

Blushington

With a doctorate in social work, Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike worked for the child welfare agency in Connecticut for more than 22 years in various management positions. When she became a mother, she shifted her focus to allow more family time while pursuing a career in real estate and an artistic outlet as a home stager.

While enjoying a scheduled hair appointment at Blushington, the self-proclaimed “professional client” shared her entrepreneurial passions and desire to continue making an impact in her new community with her dedicated beauty professional.

As luck would have it, the Blushington CEO was present that day, and just an earshot away. The connection she forged with Dr. Meaike was immediate and palpable. After a few follow-up phone calls and a subsequent vetting period, Meaike was awarded the first Blushington franchise, located in Boca Greens.

With a mission to provide beauty that’s “personal, professional and profoundly empowering,” Blushington’s services appeal to all women’s unique complexions and hair textures. Rendered by highly trained artists in their disciplines, they excel in blowouts, makeup application and classes, skin care, brows and lashes, wigs, brides and bridal parties. The services are available in-store, on location and at home, appealing to the beauty needs of today’s busy woman.

“I always enjoyed and appreciated all of the affordable luxury services all under one roof at Blushington and am honored to represent the brand here in my community,” Meaike shares.

BLUSHINGTON

Blushington.com IG @blushington_boca

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The 561 Face of the Clinically Focused MedSpa Experience

Ashok Kapur, CEO

Asōka MedSpa

Ashok Kapur brings a rare blend of clinical sensibility, technical expertise and entrepreneurial vision to the world of aesthetic medicine. Before launching Asōka MedSpa, his journey wove through a family lineage of physicians, hands-on service as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, and an accomplished career in tech—including roles with NASA, the Department of Homeland Security and Siemens. He later became CEO of the Hawkeye Group, a leading provider of medical equipment and telehealth services.

Following the successful exit from one of his ventures, Kapur immersed himself in researching med spa models nationwide. What he discovered inspired him to raise the bar. “I didn’t want to build just another med spa—I wanted to create a medically driven, transformative wellness experience,” says Kapur.

At Asōka MedSpa, clients don’t simply choose treatments—they undergo comprehensive evaluations that include AI-driven facial analysis, full-body scans, BMI metrics, medical history and lab testing. The result: a truly personalized wellness plan that treats the whole person from the inside out.

Asōka MedSpa is modern luxury and a lifestyle. Each treatment is tailored, every moment intentional. With a focus on rejuvenation and results, clients emerge not just looking better—but feeling renewed.

With a clinical team led by Medical Director Dr. Rondi Kathleen Walker, a skilled nurse practitioner, and consulting physicians, Asōka delivers luxury with purpose—expert care, advanced aesthetics and restorative therapies, all in a serene, safe environment. As Kapur puts it: “Our goal is simple—to help clients look and feel their best with care that’s intelligent, individualized and deeply rooted in clinical excellence.”

ASŌKA MEDSPA 561-444-0769

Asokamedspa.com

The 561 Face of Individualized Design

Nichola Francesca DePass

Nichola Francesca LLC®

Creativity has been a driving factor for Nichola Francesca DePass dating back to her teens and twenties, when she designed jewelry and haute couture. Now, as one of South Florida’s preeminent full-service interior designers, she and her team bring a similar combination of aesthetic beauty and functionality to the homes, offices, retail spaces and hotels of her exclusive clientele.

“I’ve been passionate about every moment in this industry for 23 years now,” says the enthusiastic designer, who endeavors with every project to create a destination that is as much an experience as a design. “We focus on how a space feels just as much as how it looks. It’s not just about beautiful backgrounds, furniture or finishes—it’s about creating an environment that tells a story, supports a lifestyle and evokes emotion. Our goal is for clients to walk into their space and feel at home, inspired, and truly connected to it.”

Clients in fashionable spaces from Miami to Palm Beach seek DePass’ services. They span from luxury clothier Baciami Couture to residences in Fort Lauderdale’s posh Victoria Park neighborhood. DePass is especially proud of Casa O, a Jupiter home whose four design styles fluidly reflected her clients’ vision; and World of Z, a Boca Raton residence that let loose her “edgy and fashionable inner rock star.”

For DePass and her discerning clients, every project offers individualized opportunities. “Clients want spaces that reflect their personal style,” she says. “No two of our projects look the same, and that’s what makes our work so rewarding.”

NICHOLA FRANCESCA LLC®

305-414-9703

nicholafrancesca.com

The 561 Face of Family Inspired Italian Cuisine

Chef Mario Mette Lynora’s

For Mario Mette, nothing quite compares to the comfort of homemade Italian food, rich in nostalgia and pleasing to the palate, any time, day or night. Growing up in Latina, south of Rome, Mette awoke most every day to the aroma of sauce on the stove, prepared by his father, who learned his culinary craft from the family patriarch. Watching in awe and anticipation, Mette studied his father’s every recipe, then savored each fresh ingredient that engulfed his plate.

Determined to create his own food legacy, Mette left home at 19 to pursue his career as a chef. Studies in England, and chef positions in restaurants from New York to Florida eventually led to his Executive Chef role at Lynora’s, where he has been in his element, in the kitchen, for 10 years.

Family-owned since 1976, Lynora’s is a lively Italian restaurant with a casual upbeat vibe. The plentiful menu boasts cocktails to desserts, with a delectable array of Italian specialties in between, from fresh pasta and crafted pizza to everything Parmesan, hearty meat dishes, health-conscious selections and specials to tantalize every taste. Chef’s personal favorite is the delicate fresh fish he prepares, each cooked to flaky perfection with sauces to complement.

Chef has been quite busy in Lynora’s newest location in Palm City, though he still manages to grace the kitchens of each location from Boca to Jupiter. “I love what I do. I started out as a teen with a dream of becoming a chef, and now at 55 years old, I’m living the dream at Lynora’s,” Mette says proudly.

The 561 Face of Upscale Living

Phillip Gabes head golf pro, Boca Grove

Boca Grove IS Boca Raton’s “Hidden Gem”… a boutique country club built on 330 acres of former Honeybell orange groves. With just 443 homes, it offers intimacy, exclusivity and a lifestyle unlike any other. Residences include elegant estates, stylish townhomes and luxe condominiums—each surrounded by first-class amenities.

Members enjoy fine dining, a nationally recognized racquets program, a cutting-edge fitness complex and an 18-hole Jim Fazio-designed championship golf course. The best part? It’s never overcrowded. At Boca Grove, you don’t wait for the experience … you live it.

But what truly sets Boca Grove apart is the community itself. “One of the best things we offer isn’t amenities, it’s relationships,” says Head Golf Professional Philip Gabes. “Generations grow together. Kids walk the course until they’re old enough to drive a cart, parents and grandparents play, so families stay … often for decades. The sense of community you get here is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.”

Golf lovers find even more to appreciate. At other clubs, tee times mean lotteries and long waits. At Boca Grove, there are none. Members simply grab a cart, head to the first tee, and play. It’s golf the way it was meant to be.

Boca Grove isn’t just a country club. It’s a closeknit, multigenerational community where luxury and connection go hand in hand. A place where neighbors become lifelong friends, and families create traditions that last for generations.

Discover Boca Grove—the hidden gem that feels like home. Cherish the Lifestyle.

BOCA GROVE

561-487-5300

bocagrove.org

The 561 Face of Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry

Martine Forrester Cadette, DMD

Boca Dentique

As an accomplished dental professional with prestigious training from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and a master’s degree in public health, Dr. Martine Forrester Cadette specializes in general and preventive dentistry, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, obstructive sleep apnea and more.

With dedication and passion, Dr. Martine Forrester Cadette’s focus on achieving and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile in conjunction with overall health and wellness for her patients is enhanced by her in-depth knowledge and training in esthetic treatments to further complement the facial appearance.

“I view the smile as a work of art in a picture frame. The lips and the soft tissue of the face must all be taken into consideration and all work in harmony when creating an aesthetic smile. This gives each signature smile I design a unique, individualized and harmonized appearance,” she says.

Her holistic, biomimetic approach to comprehensive oral health focuses on restoring teeth, utilizing state-of-the-art minimally invasive procedures that maximize tooth preservation by using materials that bond well and mimic the physical properties of natural teeth.

“Sleep apnea is also a condition I commonly treat by utilizing a custom precision small oral appliance that is comfortable and non-invasive. The latest research shows a connection between risk for dementia and sleep problems. The oral cavity as the gateway to the digestive system gives me a unique opportunity to ensure that my patients have sufficient airways to promote restful and rejuvenated sleep while reducing the risk of dementia,” explains Dr. Forrester.

BOCA DENTIQUE

561-391-6500

bocadentique.com

The 561 Face of Luxury Real Estate

Giana Guistolisi ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

Giana Guistolisi, a top-ranked real estate professional with ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, is known for delivering a client experience that extends far beyond the transaction. Recognized in the 2025 RealTrends Verified Rankings among the top 1% of agents nationwide, she combines market expertise with a curated network of industry connections to achieve exceptional results.

“I’m focused on my clients—they trust me to make things happen and I never lose sight of that responsibility,” Giana shares. Her GIANA brand and slogan, The Luxury You Deserve, embody the standard she upholds for every client. Whether guiding high-net-worth buyers, representing signature properties, or collaborating with developers on design-driven projects, she continues to set a new standard of excellence in South Florida real estate.

Specializing in Boca Raton and Delray Beach— from prestigious country club communities to waterfront estates—Giana offers her clients the insider advantage of a true local expert. Originally from New Jersey, she moved to Boca Raton for college and never left, planting roots and building her life here over the past 15 years. Well-connected within the community and among local business owners, she leverages those relationships to provide clients with opportunities and insights that go beyond the typical real estate experience. With a background in finance and marketing, she brings both strategic insight and a creative edge to every deal.

“My future is about growth, community, and continuing to elevate the client experience. The market is evolving—and so am I.”

ONE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

609-923-0518

gguistolisi@onesothebysrealty.com

The 561 FaceS of Luxury Auto

Marc & Jim Guistolisi Presidential Auto Sales & Service

Founded in 1986, Presidential Auto Sales & Service has become a landmark along Federal Highway, showcasing an ever-changing lineup of luxury vehicles that turn heads with every pass. Presidential Auto has always been a family business, built on trust and relationships that have fueled its success for nearly 40 years.

For decades, clients have come to Presidential Auto not just for cars, but for confidence in the buying and service experience. “Consistency and excellence are our biggest differentiators,” says Marc Guistolisi, general manager of Presidential Auto Sales, and son of founder Jim Guistolisi. “We strive to create a buying experience where every client is treated like family.”

That dedication to service reflects Jim’s vision. “What has sustained us for nearly 40 years is trust,” he shares. “Our community—and the families within it—have relied on us time and again, and that loyalty has been the foundation of everything we’ve built.”

Every vehicle on the lot is hand-selected, reflecting a commitment to quality that gives clients confidence long after they leave the showroom. From rare, late-model luxury cars to everyday vehicles chosen with the same high standards, every purchase is intentional and centered on client satisfaction. “One of the biggest advantages we offer is service,” Marc adds. “Clients don’t have to visit a Bentley dealership and pay outrageous labor and repair costs—they can come to us and have a trusted team care for their vehicles with the same expertise.”

As Presidential Auto approaches its 40th year, the Guistolisi family remains dedicated to integrity, service, and lasting relationships—a legacy that will continue to define the dealership for decades to come.

The 561 Face of a Healthy, Active and Connected Community

Jason Hagensick

President & CEO, YMCA of South Palm Beach County

Jason Hagensick’s YMCA journey began as a teenager just out of high school in Corpus Christi, Texas. “That first introduction to the Y laid a solid foundation,” he recalls. “At 18, I was interacting with business executives, community leaders and elected officials. I fell in love with the kind of people the Y attracted.” Now, 36 years later, that passion remains. “The best part has been partnering with others to build stronger, healthier communities.”

Today, as President & CEO of the YMCA of South Palm Beach County, Hagensick leads an organization that serves more than 40,000 individuals annually— children, teens, families and seniors—through programs that champion youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

“Few things are more rewarding than knowing your work is making a lasting impact across generations,” he shares. “Leading this mission alongside 453 dedicated staff and over 400 volunteers is both humbling and inspiring.”

From their Boca Raton and Boynton Beach campuses, the YMCA strives to create a welcoming, supportive space where every community member can thrive. “It’s more than a job—it’s a calling, and one I’m grateful to answer every day.”

You’ll often spot their Y buses, affectionately named the Hagerty Hot Rod and the Marvelous Margaret, driving through neighborhoods, marked Transporting Future Leaders. “And that’s exactly what they’re doing,” Hagensick says. “Every one of those kids is going to make their mark—and we’re here to help ensure it’s a positive, enduring one for generations to come.”

YMCA OF SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY 561-395-9622

ymcaspbc.org

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The 561 Face of Innovation in Orthodontics

Dr. Svitlana Koval

Dr. Koval Orthodontics

Thanks to the “elevated orthodontics” of Dr. Svitlana Koval, transformations in sleeping, breathing, chewing and overall dental health are within reach. At her elegant and comfortable Boca Raton practice, Dr. Koval specializes in the screening and diagnosing of sleepdisordered breathing in children and adults, combining innovative approaches to the treatment and symptoms of upper airway resistance syndrome, TMJ/TMD, neuromuscular dysfunction, obstructive sleep apnea, pediatric sleep apnea and more.

“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.

Dr. Koval sees patients as young as 3 and a half all the way through adulthood, and is a highly accomplished researcher in her field. A High Honors DMD graduate of Boston University’s Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Koval 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 patentpending 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.

Always on top of the latest technological advancements in her field, Dr. Koval utilizes many cutting-edge tools and techniques in her practice, including the T-Scan for orthodontic applications, cone-beam 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. Dr. Koval’s extensive experience, innovative drive and compassionate approach are just a consultation away.

DR. KOVAL ORTHODONTICS

954-231-3820 drssk.com

The 561 Face of Custom Decorating

Laurie Kalman

Interior Designer, Calico

“Design has always been a foundational core love for me,” said Laurie Kalman, one of the talented designers at Calico. “When I finally retired (or so I thought), I chose to get involved in something that has always inspired me. After visiting Joseph’s Classic Market one day, I wandered into Calico next door and engaged in conversation with the store manager, reminiscing about the early days of the Calico Corners brand.” They agreed to keep in touch, and the result was Kalman joining the West Palm Beach store as an interior designer.

“In my role, I manage the project from start to finish, striving to interpret a client’s vision, bringing together all the design elements that abound at Calico, so the result is a custom creation that truly resonates for them. The choices are endless—from thousands of designer fabrics in every imaginable hue to custom window treatments, furniture, Hunter Douglas blinds and shades, custom bedding, reupholstery, pillows and cushions and wallpaper. Every single day, being a part of this design community at Calico brings me joy,” Kalman reflects.

Perusing through department stores in New York was a favorite childhood pastime for Kalman. Her early fascination with the retail experience led to the RH Macy and Co Executive Program and a 12-year career at Macy’s. She rose to lead Human Resources and Learning for Macy’s flagship at Herald Square and eventually was appointed Regional People and Culture leader for 4,000 employees in 10 stores across Macy’s Northeast Region.

The West Palm Beach design shop marks the latest addition to Calico’s 50+ stores nationwide, continuing a legacy of over 75 years in creating beautiful homes.

CALICO

561-345-2385

Calicocorners.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The 561 Face of Transformational Speaking Mona Straub

Founder, Mona Straub Inspires

With her gift of gab, captivating storytelling and strong stage presence, Mona Straub has been charming and challenging audiences for decades.

From her first speech at a Jaycees event at the age of 19, Mona has inspired thousands of professionals and executives to achieve their highest potential and lead others to success.

After an illustrious career as a sales executive and entrepreneur, the age of Mona 3.0 is just beginning. With her latest entrepreneurial venture, Mona Straub Inspires, she’s converging her many professional loves—speaking, coaching and leadership development work—to pay forward the years of mentorship and appreciation she has received. Giving back comes naturally to Mona, from collecting money for UNICEF as a child to serving multiple philanthropic and advocacy organizations like the Dachshund Rescue of South Florida and the Florida Women’s Business Center.

Mona is also hard at work on her memoir, “Pull Up Your Big Girl Panties,” which also serves as a guide to resilience for women in leadership. While her life story is marked by great success, she’s experienced the lowest of lows, such as losing her dear husband, Mike, to cancer during the 2024 holiday season. “He was my easiest ‘hello’ and my hardest ‘goodbye,’” she often says. “I lost my true love, but I didn’t die. My life has to go on with purpose.”

Through her wit and wisdom, Mona will take you to your next level in work and life. Contact Mona Straub to learn more about strategies that will inspire and empower you to do better.

MONA STRAUB

954-205-3657

mona@monastraubinspires.com

The 561 Face of Total Skin Care

ROBERT S. BADER, MD Founder of RSB Dermatology

Dr. Robert Bader’s dermatology and cosmetic surgical practice, RSB Dermatology in Deerfield Beach, offers comprehensive skin, hair and nail treatments that include Mohs’ micrographic surgery, reconstructive surgery and dermatologic plastic surgery. Dr. Bader takes great pride in his versatile Ivy League training, board-certified expertise and the personal connection he forges with his patients.

Dr. Bader graduated from The George Washington University School of Medicine Health Sciences with Distinction and is fellowship trained in Mohs’ and Dermatologic Plastic Surgery from Affiliated Dermatology, a program affiliated with Columbia University. “Along with comprehensive, full scope dermatologic care, I am able to perform both Mohs surgery and the reconstruction in my office during one appointment, saving my patients time, travel, and the expense of dealing with different specialists and separate cost the insurance co-pays, says Dr. Bader.

Among the many enhancing skin treatments patients request in his practice, Bader provides Morpheus and the 1540 Fractional Laser, a popular non-ablative laser resurfacing treatment that heats columns of skin to reduce wrinkles, improve stretch marks, and/or improve scars with virtually no downtime.

“As this is less aggressive than its ablative CO2 counterpart, most patients will require three to six treatment sessions to achieve their desired results. Most often these sessions are spaced four to six weeks apart,” Bader explains.

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

RSB DERMATOLOGY, INC.

954-421-3200

drbader.com

The 561 Face of Compassionate Nursing Care

Rose Glamoclija, RN Boca Nursing Services, Inc.

When the quality of life you’ve known is compromised by illness, you want the highest caliber of care. And since none of us know when that time will come and impact our lives, we are often overwhelmed when it does. At times like these, you need to rely on the comfort and connection to people who will be there for you when you need it most.

Rose Glamoclija, RN, the founder and Administrator of Boca Nursing Services, and a Registered Nurse for over 40 years understands. She knows the chemistry between caregivers and patients is paramount, especially when patients are vulnerable and out of their element. With compassion, and concern for every person they serve in the surrounding four counties, Rose provides guidance and resources for families needing in-home support and nursing care. Patients are treated with the highest level of respect for their rights, personal beliefs, and privacy.

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

BOCA NURSING SERVICES, INC.

Boca Raton Palm Beach

561-347-7566 561-833-3430

bocanursing.com bocanursing.com

The Face of Hope for the Hungry

Dr. Andrew Hagen

Executive Director, Boca Helping Hands

After 20 years of serving as Senior Pastor of Advent Church in Boca Raton, Dr. Andrew Hagen heard a new calling. His years of serving as a volunteer and board member for Boca Helping Hands led him to the position of Executive Director in June of 2025. “It is a joy to bring hope to those in need,” says Hagen.

In his new role, Hagen’s mission is tackling food insecurity and workforce readiness. He is a strong advocate of moving from “handouts” to “hand-ups,” with the belief that every meal or act of assistance should also create a pathway toward independence and stability. Hagen is especially committed to helping young adults transition from low-wage jobs into careers with livable wages through job training services provided by BHH.

“It is a true blessing to see the smiling faces of the seniors and families as they pick up the fresh food, meat and pantry items we distribute at each of our five different locations in county. When I walk through our warehouse, I am overwhelmed by the generosity of local donors who make it possible for us to provide hot meals to those in need.”

“Thanks to our financial supporters, BHH has become one of the top relief charities in the county. Boca Raton has a reputation as an affluent community. Boca Helping Hands is living proof that it is also a community that is generous and supportive to those who need a helping hand.”

BOCA HELPING HANDS

561-843-7261

andrew@bocahelpinghands.org

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The Face of Turnkey Flooring Solutions

Vince Rozek

Owner, Floor Coverings

International Boca Raton

From his days working on avionics in the U.S. Marine Corps, to managing programs in Corporate America, to fixing up his own investment properties, Vince Rozek has always brought discipline, organization, and creativity to everything he does. Over 12 years ago, those skills led him to a career in flooring—and he hasn’t looked back since.

“I’ve always loved working on my own renovations and realized I had a knack for pulling finishes together and bringing new life to a space,” Vince says. “After a few bad experiences with contractors, I knew I could do better. I enjoy meeting people and helping them solve problems, so I decided to channel that passion into creating Floor Coverings International Boca Raton. We make the process easy, stress-free, and enjoyable—and that’s what sets us apart.”

Whether it’s a free in-home design consultation with their Mobile Flooring Showroom® (fully stocked with samples) or a personal appointment at the showroom, Vince and his team offer a wide range of flooring options to fit every taste and budget. From porcelain tile, hardwood, luxury vinyl, and laminate to eco-friendly choices like cork and bamboo, they’ve got something for everyone. For businesses, they also provide durable commercial flooring like vinyl, VCT, carpet, and tile.

“We don’t just sell flooring—we install it, stand by our work, and guarantee it well beyond industry standards,” Vince says. “I truly care about building lasting relationships, which is why I give out my personal cell phone number. I want clients to know they can always reach me directly.”

FLOOR COVERINGS INTERNATIONAL

BOCA RATON

561-704-3776

bocaraton.floorcoveringsinternational.com

The 561 Face of Improved Surgical Instrument Sterilization

F. Daniel Johnson

Founder

& CEO, Instrumentum

Patients undergoing surgery can now feel more confident that the instruments used during their procedure are prepared to the highest standards. With firsthand knowledge and concern for patients, a medical device rep from one of the large manufacturers of medical instrumentation and a group of respected orthopedic surgeons contacted businessman Dan Johnson. Aware that his firm was successful in helping founders grow companies that positively disrupt the marketplace by innovating to solve problems, they presented the need for improved instrument sterilization services.

As reported to Johnson, “We are increasingly seeing instrumentation being presented into the surgery theater that must be rejected because it is not, in fact, sterile. This can result in serious risks for the patient and cause inconvenient and expensive delays for everyone working in the operating room while the surgery is suspended.

Johnson notes, “As the amount of elective qualityof-life surgeries is increasing, hospitals often have difficulty keeping up with the corresponding amount of instrumentation that sterile processing departments are asked to process. With the added challenges of budget constraints and less available resources, quality can be compromised and the number of surgeries limited.”

Instrumentum was created to partner with health care providers and empower them to add more surgeries while improving the quality of their SPD operation. Proper sterilization of surgical instruments is central to good patient care, and Instrumentum is the emerging leader in the sterilization-as-a-service category.

Proudly based in Boca Raton with its headquarters and R&D facility located in the Research Park at Florida Atlantic University, Instrumentum is raising the bar nationally for quality sterile processing services.

INSTRUMENTUM

561-918-3400

Instrumentum.com

MICHAEL

the 561 Face of Hunger Relief

Jamie Kendall CEO of Palm Beach County Food Bank

When was the last time you felt real hunger? Not the kind where you’re counting down to lunch, but the kind where you hand your child a glass of water at bedtime “so that their rumbly little stomachs don’t wake them up.”

A mother shared that story with Jamie Kendall 15 years ago, and it never left her. It’s the kind of reality that drives the Palm Beach County Food Bank CEO, who’s spent 18 years in what she calls “a lifesaving service.”

The numbers tell one story: 192,000 food-insecure residents. But Kendall also sees the faces—working families one flat tire away from skipping meals, seniors stretching Social Security checks, parents going without so their children can eat. “It’s a quiet problem,” she says.

After leading a food bank in Georgia for over a decade, Kendall took the helm locally five years ago, overseeing the distribution hub that serves 150 partner agencies countywide.

Last year marked a milestone with the opening of the Michelle Haggerty Community Kitchen and Premier Kitchen. The Community Kitchen produced 64,000 meals at 30 feeding sites this past summer, while the Premier Kitchen invites businesses to meet, dine, and volunteer—like packing some of the 5,200 weekend food bags sent home with students every Friday.

Kendall dreams of a day when her work is no longer needed, but until then, she’s focused on filling the gap. “Donate your time or treasure,” she says. “The need is here, even in one of the most affluent areas in the country.”

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK

561-670-2518

pbcfoodbank.org

The 561 Face of Italy’s Most Exclusive Tile & Marble

Michael Hummel

Owner, Just Tile & Marble

For more than 38 years, Michael Hummel has consistently been at the forefront of the tile and marble marketplace, raising the bar and consumers’ expectations with his treasure trove of the most exclusive imports of porcelain tiles, slabs and other beautiful natural stones, waterjet mosaics and unique glass and handmade tiles from around the world, with an emphasis on Italian products. His unyielding work ethic, creative eye and superior client relationships have earned Hummel a prestigious standing in the industry.

Renowned for being one of the largest facilities in the country for 48X48 tiles, Just Tile & Marble boasts more than 115 varieties in stock, with an ever-growing curated inventory that leaves clients asking in anticipation, “What’s new, Mike?”

Excited with his latest acquisition, Hummel introduces leathered porcelain tiles to his eclectic repertoire, complete with matching 48X110 slabs. Sensuously smooth to the touch with indentation veins, these Italian imports inspire the allure of Florence, where leather goods line the streets, intoxicating buyers with their grandiose presence.

“I also carry over 100 varieties of 24X48s and have more than 250 slabs on display. With my unrelenting passion to continuously elevate our inventory’s wow factor to new heights, I have also added grand-scale 63X63s that I personally designed, featuring today’s warmer palette with ivories, beiges, creams and taupes,” Hummel adds.

”It’s been an incredibly rewarding year. Having my daughter Hayley and her wealth of construction knowledge contribute to our success has certainly been a highlight. I couldn’t be prouder, or more grateful,” he reflects.

JUST TILE & MARBLE

561-272-4900

Justtilenmarble.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The 561 Face of a Visionary Chef and Restaurateur

Alican Ozturk owner, Anyday

A truly unique culinary experience awaits food aficionados at Anyday in Boca Raton. Owner/ chef Alican Ozturk has created a contemporary, health-focused restaurant combining sustainability with innovation.

The eatery’s seasonal menu comprises breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared with organic, locally sourced ingredients with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Top sellers include the tapas bar, branzino with kale beurre blanc, and hamachi ceviche.

“Anyday was born from a passion to create a space where people can enjoy refined and approachable food—something you can come to any day of the week, for a casual bite or a special night out,” expresses Alican, who was born and raised in Turkey. “After years of working in kitchens and shaping my culinary vision, I wanted to bring together flavors that feel bold, modern, and elevated, but still welcoming.”

The eatery opened in early 2025 as Alican’s first location in Boca Raton, with the idea of building a community-driven restaurant that reflects the energy of South Florida and is committed to sourcing responsibility, with most of its produce coming from local farms.

“We prioritize organic ingredients whenever possible,” Alican points out. “Mediterranean flavors are at the heart of our cooking philosophy—they embody balance, freshness, and boldness. Our menu brings together ingredients like olive oil, fresh herbs, seafood, seasonal vegetables, and spices, presented in creative ways that feel both familiar and new.”

“Guests love the variety of nourishing food that excites the palate,” Alican explains. “Many say the dining experience is welcoming, energetic, and modern.” ANYDAY

561-617-5416 anydayinmiami.com

The 561 Face of The Hottest New Indoor Padel Club

Nalle Grinda

Co-Founder, Padel X™

Nalle Grinda was only 8 years old when he discovered and fell in love with the game of padel, long before it became one of the world’s fastest growing racquet sports.

Born into a family of tennis fanatics—including a Davis Cup tennis pro father—Grinda went on to become a tennis pro himself, and a padel pro in France, playing in the World Championships five times.

“I learned in the best academy in Argentina, eventually reaching the Top 50 players in the world in the FIP ranking and participated in the Padel Pro Tour. I moved to Miami in 2010, and that was the end of my high-level padel career, but just the beginning of my venture into creating the Padel X brand along with my friend and business partner, Juan Pablo Leria. Together we have opened our first two Padel X clubs in Miami and Boca Raton. We are building West Palm Beach with plans for a 10-court indoor flagship location in 2026 on Lincoln Road,” says Grinda.

The ultimate new destination for the racquet game described as a combination of squash and tennis played in glass walled courts, the alluring 28,000-square-foot Padel X club in Boca Raton also features a wellness area with a sauna, cold plunges and a recovery lounge.

“I invite people to come and have the most fun they’ve ever had with a racquet in their hand. We’re also about the community, meeting people, and special events like our own version of singles’ speed dating. I could go on and on about Padel X, but the best publicity for the game is the game itself,” Grinda assures, and adds, “come try it!”

PADEL X™

305-922-9242

padelx.us

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The Face of Wealth Preservation through Physical Precious Metals

Finis L. Cole II President, Cole Metals Group, LLC

“Typically, people believe that the only way to build a successful retirement or investment portfolio is through some combination of stocks and bonds. Actually, gold is the original asset class. Everything in gold is driven by the dollar itself. Most of us understand that with our country $37 trillion in debt, a dollar certainly doesn’t buy what it used to,” explains Finis L. Cole II, President of Cole Metals, in partnership with the largest precious metals wholesalers, distributors and logistics networks in the U.S.

When clients approach Cole Metals, their primary goal is to preserve and grow wealth, especially during times of uncertainty. “Gold is an immutable object; it’s an anchor that doesn’t change,” Cole asserts.

“Let’s say you’ve got $1 million that you want to give to your kids. You know what $1 million will buy today but have no idea what $1 million will buy 10 years from now. It might take much more to purchase those same things. Let’s freeze the purchasing power now and put this money in gold, so that upon your demise or transfer of wealth, your children will have the same purchasing power, no matter where the gold is at that point in the future. The gold is just a savings and wealth preservation tool,” explains Cole.

Cole Metals provides individuals, family trusts and small corporations with a cost-effective, strategic approach to diversify their portfolios with gold, silver, platinum and palladium. With convenient, safe, seamless delivery of the assets to a location of their choice, clients benefit from a unique turnkey, customized wealth management experience.

COLE METALS GROUP, LLC

561-990-1070

colemetalsgroup.com

The 561 Faces of Creative, WellnessDriven Fitness

Penelope Lawson and Brian Kahn

Bootique Fitness

When Penelope Lawson and her husband, Brian Kahn, joined forces professionally, they blended her creative background (in film) and athleticism with his training expertise to establish Bootique Fitness in Delray Beach.

“Bootique, opening at the end of 2025, is a premier group fitness studio that combines StairMaster cardio with strength training, choreographed to music, in a cinematic setting,” Penelope explains. “It’s a concierge-level service, with elite programming, and an atmosphere that feels more like an experience than a workout.”

What makes Bootique (“booty firming” and “boutique gym”) Fitness unique are three elements that no other center offers together: Brian’s celebrity-level programming, cinematic lights and sound that turn class into an event, and a concierge approach where members feel cared for. “When Brian and I connected— in Los Angeles when I began taking classes at Rumble Boxing, where he was a founding trainer—we realized there was a gap in the market. People wanted group fitness that was effective but also elevated,” she shares.

The StairMaster is one of the most effective, lowimpact tools for building stamina, sculpting muscle, and torching calories, so it’s Bootique’s machine of choice. The facility built choreographed, intervalbased programming around it, so members are doing a structured, music- and results-driven workout.

“The art-deco-designed gym has a fun, tropical look, and trainers who guide you every step,” Penelope expresses. “Class is high-energy, choreographed, and empowering.” Penelope and Brian invite all to their lifestyle hub, where they’ll host challenges and member events, and create a space where members don’t just work out—they connect.

BOOTIQUE FITNESS

917-208-8658

bootiquefit.com

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Brian Kahn

Penelope Lawson

The 561 Faces of Turnkey Real Estate Solutions

Miles and Brittany Zalkin

MZB Properties

For Miles and Brittany Zalkin, buying, designing and selling real estate has been a 25-year hobby. But it wasn’t until the disruptions of COVID-19 that Miles decided to transition from the health care industry into real estate full-time. And the bull market of Palm Beach County proved to be the perfect fit for their burgeoning business.

“The market was going crazy back then, but I noticed it was totally fragmented,” Zalkin recalls. “You were either a broker, a designer or a contractor. Nobody was offering a full turnkey vertically integrated solution under one brand and one roof. And so I said to my wife, we should put together a vertically integrated business for ourselves.”

That business became MZB Properties, named for Miles and Brittany Zalkin, partners in life and work. The company’s innovative, one-stop-shop approach as a full-service real estate firm—with architects, builders interior designers all under one umbrella— quickly took off. MZB Properties’ portfolio includes custom projects in Woodfield Country Club, Broken Sound Country Club and Boca West in Boca Raton, as well as luxurious properties on Palm Beach island and into Broward and Miami-Dade counties. Business, Zalkin says, has been doubling every year over the past three years.

“It’s relationship building; it’s relationship managing,” Zalkin says. “It’s a very intimate process. You really understand people’s lives, and how they live, and what they like. We are constantly trying to be innovative, pushing the boundaries of design, technology, functionality and sustainability. There’s really nobody else in the marketplace that is able to bring all of this under one roof, one brand, one solution.”

Brittany Zalkin

Miles Zalkin

The 561 Faces of Transformative Child Care

Lisa McDulin and Charles Bender

Place of Hope

Charles Bender has the receipts: namely, more than 250,000 youth and families cared for since inception; 3,400+ foster children who have experienced safety, stability and the love of a family; and 93,000+ community members educated on human trafficking. These are just a few of the statistics from Place of Hope, the nonprofit Bender and others founded in 1999. Today, Bender is CEO and a board member of the organization, and Lisa McDulin is VP of Advancement for South County. Since its inception on a single campus, the state-licensed residential childcaring agency has grown into the largest childrenand-families organization in South Florida, with five campuses from Boca Raton to Martin County.

“We focus in on abused, neglected and abandoned children who are in state custody and foster care, and then we have a home for pregnant teens,” Bender says. “We run a lot of transitional affordable housing for aged-out foster youth and otherwise homeless families with children. And we residentially care for human trafficking survivors.”

Many are surprised at the amount of need for Place Hope’s services in a county as prosperous as Palm Beach. But as Bender points out, “child abuse or human trafficking do not affect only one socioeconomic group. These things happen right here in this spectacular paradise. The more metro we become and the more populated we become simply means we’re going to have more need.”

Place of Hope is in the midst of a capital campaign, called “God’s Children. Our Future,” that seeks to raise an additional $30 million over the next seven years to fulfill a $100 million goal of greatly expanding foster homes and affordable housing in the region. Donations of any amount are encouraged at placeofhope.com/donate.

PLACE OF HOPE

561-775-7195

placeofhope.com

Charles Bender

Lisa McDulin

The 561 Faces of Architectural Millwork Creations

Jose Barni Owner & Lead Designer

Martin Villalba Designer

C.A.C. Custom Artisan Cabinetry

Jose Barni and Martin Villalba bring their own unique skill sets to C.A.C. Custom Artisan Cabinetry, the 40-year-old family-owned and -operated business started by the family patriarch, Elvio Ramon Barni.

Seeing the design process as a collaborative effort, Villalba says, “Today’s consumer is very educated and has many options. Rather than trying to follow the trends that are out there in the moment, we sit with the client and just pay close attention, marrying our expertise with their needs. That’s how we come up with such unique ideas and products,” he explains.

“The relationship that we build with the clients does not impose a particular style or a trend. We allow them to bring their own ideas, and those of their interior decorators, and we guide them through those choices to reflect the functionality and personality they’re bringing to that specific project. We also do in-home design consultations with clients so we can sit together in their space and create a plan for them,” adds Jose Barni. “We serve as more of a guiding entity to make sure that everything has been designed to perfection and can be delivered flawlessly.”

“From entertainment centers to home offices, bars to kitchens, bedrooms to baths, every custom piece is masterfully manufactured in our Boca Raton facility, utilizing state-of-the-art machinery and technology, topquality hardware and materials only manufactured in the United States and Europe. Each design is meticulously created and built from scratch, with craftsmanship precision down to 1/10 mm,” boasts Barni.

C.A.C. CUSTOM ARTISAN CABINETRY

561-361-5111

customartisancabinetry.com

Jose Barni

Martin Villalba

The 561 Faces of Strategic Accounting & Tax Advisory

Tricia Anderson, ea

Debbie Eisenberg, cpa Partners, KSDT-CPA, LLC

In South Florida’s competitive business environment, KSDT-CPA stands out for delivering more than traditional accounting and tax services. Partners Tricia Anderson, EA and Debbie Eisenberg, CPA lead with a shared mission— helping clients achieve financial clarity and minimizing risk, while positioning clients for long-term growth and profitability.

A University of Florida graduate in finance, real estate and economics, Tricia Anderson, EA, Client Accounting Services Partner for KSDT, brings more than 30 years of accounting and tax expertise. Her entrepreneurial perspective was shaped early on as CFO of The Chocolate Truffle, and later as Founder and President of P.T. Anderson, Inc. where she guided both businesses to successful sales. “That experience taught me firsthand what it’s like to be in my clients’ shoes—navigating challenges and opportunities with the goal of keeping a business growing and profitable,” she says.

Debbie Eisenberg, CPA, Tax Partner, has more than 30 years of tax experience across private companies and public accounting firms. Debbie holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin and is a Licensed CPA in the State of Florida. She began her career in the Big 4 with KPMG, gaining extensive domestic and international tax experience. She has guided corporations, partnerships and high-net-worth clients through complex planning strategies. “We work side-by-side with our clients to create tax strategies that reduce risk, increase profitability and give them the confidence to plan for a strong financial future,” Eisenberg explains.

Together, they serve clients across a variety of industries, including health care, real estate, nonprofit, entertainment and professional services. Partner with KSDT-CPA and experience a firm that values its clients, offering a handson approach to advisory, compliance and forecasting— empowering clients to focus on their mission while KSDT drives your financial success.

KSDT-CPA, LLC

561-299-0220 / 561-737-5568

ksdt.com

Debbie Eisenberg

Tricia Anderson

THE STUDIO AT MIZNER PARK PRESENTS

OPENINGNIGHTCELEBRATIONBYINVITATION~BUBBLES,BANGLES,ANDBEADS

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026 | 6:00PM

EXHIBITIONOPENTOTHEPUBLIC

January 14th — 17th | 11:00AM - 5:00PM

SPECIALEVENTS

Conversation with Bruce Medcalf • Artists' Presentations • Afternoon Tea • Curated Tours • More to be revealed...

CARINA MASK

Kaluga caviar from MAASS

MAASS Chef’s Counter

525 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale; 954/256-0000

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

WClockwise from bottom: salmon faroe, chawanmushi, yellowtail hamachi and beef filet

IF YOU GO

PARKING: Valet

HOURS: Monday – Sunday 5 – 10 p.m.

PRICES: $195 or $375 (prix fixe menus)

WEBSITE: maassftl.com

hen the prestigious Michelin Guide arrived in Florida in 2022, South Florida foodies toasted to the news with much merriment. When it announced this year that it would expand into Fort Lauderdale for the first time, the city’s culinary scene held its breath—would it finally have a chance to join the culinary elite?

Chef Ryan Ratino opened MAASS at the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences in late 2023. A lauded young chef (he’s 35!) who already helmed two starred restaurants in Washington, D.C., his arrival was a win for the city’s culinary scene. And then, MAASS was the only Fort Lauderdale restaurant awarded a star. I must note, while I have dined at the restaurant and enjoyed its a la carte menu, this review is solely focused on the Michelin-starred Chef’s Counter, with its 14 seats.

The restaurant, located beachside on the hotel’s ground floor, is named in honor of the late local architect Gustav Maass, who infused his Mediterranean Revival designs into homes during the early 20th century. The space appears to

glow from within, featuring warm woods, cozy banquettes and golden lighting. In contrast, The Chef’s Counter is brightly lit with frontrow views of the stainless-steel kitchen illuminated by fire.

The evening I dined, Executive Chef David Brito, in his white Birkenstock kitchen clogs and laser-focused gaze, conducted his silent symphony. While the menu isn’t known to change, there may be subtle differences from the dishes I ate, so I won’t go into too much dish detail in this review. Plus, I don’t want to deprive you of the joy you’ll feel when each beautiful dish, shrouded in a bit of mystery, is placed in front of you.

We arrived to our reservation late and exasperated after hitting every red light. After confessing this to our waiter, without another word, he arrived with two glasses of Champagne. What a simple but thoughtful gesture. While Debbie Deb played in the background, we were treated to four amuse-bouches. Each is its own marvel, but to me, the elevated foie gras petit four bite, inspired by two nostalgic treats—the Nabisco Nutter Butter cookie and a peanut butter and

jelly sandwich—was the star.

As the music moved into the early aughts, we savored three distinct seafood courses: a yellowtail hamachi with crisp Italian melon, a warm custard with Dungeness crab and sweet corn, and a scallop with trout roe. I know it might seem like a lot, but don’t fret; each course is manageable. Plus, you must make sure to save room for my favorite course—rice topped with an airy yet indulgent Comté cheese foam that precedes the beef filet and several desserts that complete the meal.

The Chef’s Counter offers two prix fixe Japanese-inspired menus that differ in price and duration. The Excursion ($195) is a twohour, seven-course experience, while The Voyage ($375) is an indulgent three-hour, 10-course dinner with succulent additions like Kaluga caviar and A5 bavette.

So, the question on your mind now must be: ‘OK, but is it worth it?’ Overall, going into any Michelin-starred dinner, expectations are that the entire experience will be unique, enticing, awe-inspiring and memorable. With that in mind, it’s absolutely worth it.

CARINA MASK

MONDAY-FRIDAY

Stage

5377 Town Center Road, Boca Raton; 561/409-2376

CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

Iwas frustrated after visiting chef Pushkar Marathe’s Stage concept in Palm Beach Gardens a few years ago. It was disappointing knowing that if I ever wanted to marvel at his dishes again, I’d have to commit to an extensive drive. (Don’t get me wrong, I’ll travel for food, but South Florida traffic has become overwhelming.) So, when I heard early last year that he was opening an outpost in Boca, I was ecstatic. I waited a year for the grand opening, but it was definitely worth it.

IF YOU GO

PARKING: Valet, lot parking

HOURS: Tuesday – Sunday: Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.; Sunday, TuesdayThursday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. ; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Closed Mondays

PRICES: $12 – $69

WEBSITE: stagekitchenandbar.com

Located in Midtown Boca’s bustling Restaurant Row, Stage (pronounced staaj, as in a culinary intern, not a platform for performers) features a polished design divided into three distinct areas: an expansive, vibey bar; a serene dining room; and a spacious covered patio. As we perused the menu, we appreciated that it features several local farms like Kai-Kai Farm and Naga Gardens. While some restaurants can get away with average food if the service is exemplary, both were equally impressive here. Our waiter captivated us with his knowledge of the menu, passion for the dishes he recommended, and how he coursed our meal. The dishes are meant to be shared, but the experience was never rushed or overwhelming.

We started with the spicy tuna bomb ($23) and Naga lychee ceviche ($19). Both dishes intrigued us, especially when our waiter confessed the bomb was something he’d never tasted anywhere else, and that the ceviche was sans fish. With these two dishes, I understood why

Marathe was a semifinalist for a James Beard Award. His creativity and execution were on full display. The tuna is marinated in spicy soy for a light kick, topped with creamy avocado and stuffed into four bite-size airy puffs, inspired by the Indian puri bread. Visually, the ceviche looks like raw fish. I feared it would be too sweet, because Marathe replaced the fish completely with lychee pieces, but it wasn’t. The fruit’s sweetness and the sauce’s citrus notes are perfectly balanced, and the Thai chili adds a subtle level of spiciness, while the cucumber and onion provide a refreshing crunch.

Replacing the customary chicken, the tandoori Niman Ranch churrasco ($45) was still marinated in yogurt and spices, making it extra tender and juicy with mild, smoky undertones. It’s served with a tomato and onion salad topped with blue cheese, which allowed me to slather some blue cheese on the steak without the cheese overwhelming the meat’s flavor. Another classic, Ela’s butter chicken masala ($26), served in a tomato cashew curry, is accompanied by basmati rice that I eagerly drenched in the creamy sauce. While it delivered in flavor, there was room to up the spice. If you love bananas, the deconstructed Banoffee pie ($12) is an excellent end to the meal—an indulgent dessert with roasted bananas and white chocolate dulce de leche topped with a graham cracker crumble. I can’t wait to go back for that ceviche that replays in my dreams. Thank you, chef Marathe, for not making me trek north for it.

Clockwise from bottom: spicy tuna bomb, Ela’s butter chicken masala, Naga lychee ceviche and tandoori Niman Ranch churrasco

MICHAEL CONNOR PHOTOGRAPHY

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. $$$

Corvina Seafood Grill

AARON BRISTOL

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. $

Leave it to the Chef

This past summer, Kasumi introduced an omakase experience—a nine-course, $150 menu that can be enjoyed nightly at its cozy sushi counter.

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

Funghi misti pizza from Louie Bossi’s

AARON

BRISTOL

restaurants cooking in that genre, it’s the details of preparation and service that make Matteo’s stand out. Baked clams are a good place to start, as is the reliable chopped salad. Linguini frutti di mare is one of the best in town. • Dinner nightly. 561/392-0773. $$$

Max’s Grille —404 Plaza Real. Contemporary American 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. $

From hot press wraps, fresh salads, bagels and toasts to refreshing smoothies, customizable açai bowls, and smooth in-house cold brew, everything is made fresh, fast, and seriously good any time of day.

Capture the essence of our story and our community. Show the vibrant atmosphere of our family-operated cafe, especially including us-Adrian and Vanessa-along with our daughters, including Nico, our golden doodle, who regularly greets customers.

Grape Expectations

Local sommeliers break down the widely debated question: which wines are worth splurging on? This season, perfectly timed for endless social gatherings, let’s discover which wines are truly worth every penny.

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

MARCELL KEYS, CHOPS LOBSTER BAR, BOCA RATON

While working as a server, his interest in learning more about wine and how to sell it better launched Keys into his career in wine. Curiosity quickly turned into a decades-long passion, especially for the Rhône varietals.

• LA LOUVÉE 2019 SYRAH, CORNAS, FRANCE – $199

Crafted by Jean-Luc Colombo, a leading figure in Northern Rhône syrah, this wine is a must-try. While its dark fruit character is striking, the floral notes on the nose are the first hint that this is a serious wine. The heavy yet well-balanced structural tannins drive this spectacular wine home.

• CHÂTEAU DUHART-MILON 2009, PAUILLAC, BORDEAUX – $320

First and foremost, the Rothschild family’s involvement in producing this predominantly cabernet sauvignon Left Bank expression is reason enough to take notice. Bottom line: it’s inky, it’s sticky, and it’s forest-floor delightful. Have a steak ready.

• EISELE VINEYARD, CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2016, NAPA VALLEY – $900

These suave, powerful and refined tannins will have you praying for more. This vintage scored a perfect 100 points from The Wine Advocate.

NICOLE MOLLISON, HARRY’S, WEST PALM BEACH Mollison enjoys customizing her guests’ experiences to match their exact taste,

budget and menu choices, providing them with a premium hospitality experience at both Harry’s and Adrienne’s Pizzabar.

• BIONDI SANTI, ROSSO DI MONTALCINO, ITALY - $325

Savory and balanced with true finesse, this wine showcases flavors of wild strawberries, blood oranges and raspberries, complemented by delicate cedar spice. Paired with a dish like Harry’s Signature Beef Wellington, it’s a meal that you simply cannot miss this holiday season.

• JACQUESSON, CUVÉE 746, CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE - $175

Expressing refined citrus and lightly toasted brioche notes, the 746 pairs well with many seafood dishes, especially baked clams. Rather than making a consistent wine each year, they choose to craft the best blend of chardonnay, Pinot noir and Meunier in each vintage, valuing quality and innovation over consistency.

• RIDGE VINEYARDS, GRENACHE BLANC, PASO ROBLES - $90

A quirky selection that I love to recommend to open-minded wine enthusiasts and guests is the Ridge Vineyards grenache blanc. Ridge Vineyards pays homage to the Rhône Valley in France by experimenting with this grape in California, creating a complex white wine with aromas of pear, honeysuckle, pineapple and candied lime that truly leaps out of the glass.

VIRGINIA PHILIP, VIRGINIA PHILIP WINE SPIRITS & ACADEMY, PALM BEACH

Philip has been an icon in the wine world and in Palm Beach for years. She’s the 11th woman in the world to earn the Master Sommelier certification, her Palm Beach retail boutique has been open since 2011, and she is the wine director at The Breakers Palm Beach.

• GRACE FAMILY, BLANK VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014, NAPA VALLEY - $225

This wine is showing beautifully now. The color is inky purple, like a young vintage, which illustrates how well-made this wine is. The tannins are powerful but giving at the same time. It’s so impressive.

• ARMAND HEITZ, VOLNAY TAILLEPIEDS PREMIER CRU 2022, BURGUNDY, FRANCE - $150

Made from Pinot noir, this wine is both juicy and tart. I like this wine because, even though it is young, it can be enjoyed now and will also age beautifully.

• VEGA SICILIA, UNICO 2013, RIBERA DEL DUERO, SPAIN - $550

This wine is an icon and put Spanish wine on the map. Tempranillo shows its amazing versatility in this wine with silky tannins, leather and dried fruits. Delish!

Marcell Keys

GABRIELLE WILDE

Virginia Philip

Nicole Mollison

saganaki, grilled entrees and kebobs. From the taramosalata to the branzino and pastitsio, servings are generous and good. Don’t forget dessert. • Lunch Mon.-Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/994-2828. $$

Trattoria Romana —499 E. Palmetto Park Road. Italian. This local mainstay does Italian classics and its own lengthy list of ambitious specials with unusual skill and aplomb. The service is at a level not always seen in local restaurants. Pay attention to the daily specials, especially if they include impeccably done langostini oreganata and the restaurant’s signature jumbo shrimp saltimbocca. • Dinner nightly. 561/393-6715. $$$

Twenty Twenty Grille —141 Via Naranjas, Suite 45. Contemporary American. You’ve probably licked postage stamps that are larger than Ron and Rhonda Weisheit’s tiny jewel box of a restaurant, but what it lacks in space it more than makes up for in charm, sophistication and imaginative, expertly crafted food. Virtually everything is made in-house, from the trio of breads that first grace your table to the pasta in a suave dish of tagliatelle with duck and chicken confit. Don’t miss the jerk pork belly and grilled veal strip loin. • Dinner nightly. 561/990-7969. $$$

Villagio Italian Eatery —344 Plaza Real. Italian The classic Italian comfort food at this Mizner Park establishment is served with flair and great attention to detail. The reasonably priced menu—with generous portions—includes all your favorites (veal Parmesan, Caesar salad) and some outstanding seafood dishes (Maine lobster with shrimp, mussels and clams on linguine). There is a full wine list and ample people-watching given the prime outdoor seating. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/447-2257. $$

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. $$

Wild Things

Wild-caught fish are a highlight of City Fish Market’s locally sourced menu. Options include Nova Scotia halibut, Atlantic swordfish and Chilean sea bass.

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

City Fish Market—7940 Glades Road. Seafood. A multimillion-dollar remodel of the old Pete’s has turned it into an elegant seafood house with a lengthy seafood-friendly wine list, impeccably fresh fish and shellfish cooked with care and little artifice. • Lunch Mon.–Fri. Dinner nightly. 561/487-1600. $$

Ditmas Kitchen —21077 Powerline Road. Contemporary kosher. This west Boca restaurant is named after a Brooklyn avenue in a district known for its food. Here you’ll find very good casual food, and no dairy products are used. Try the Hibachi salmon, all-kale Caesar salad, the shnitzel sandwich. • Dinner Sun.-Thurs. 561/826-8875. $$$

DVASH —8208 Glades Road. Mediterranean. The menu, a collection of Mediterranean fusion dishes with a variety of daily specials, caters to an array of diets, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free. The Cohen family, who previously owned Falafel Bistro & Wine Bar in Coral Springs for more than a decade, now welcomes diners to this West Boca restaurant that’s tucked away in the Publix Greenwise strip mall. • Lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/826-7784. $$

Embarcadero 41—8188 Glades Road. Peruvian. Embarcadero 41 offers exceptional Peruvian and Nikkei (Japanese-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

Shrimp cargot from DVASH

AARON BRISTOL

Buzz Bite II

Where to Give Back This Holiday Season

BOCA HELPING HANDS

Deeply rooted in our community, its programs include distributing pantry bags, serving daily hot meals, and providing weekend meals to food-insecure students. Volunteers and donations are essential for its programs and are appreciated. bocahelpinghands.org

ST. GREGORY’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Its pantry is open on weekday mornings, and it serves lunch on Sunday afternoons. Volunteers are welcome, as are food and monetary donations. stgregorysepiscopal.org

FEEDING SOUTH FLORIDA

With a mission to end hunger in South Florida, Feeding South Florida’s volunteer opportunities include sorting and packing donated food, kitchen prep and distributing senior meal boxes. Giving your time, extra food or money is always appreciated. feedingsouthflorida.org

—Christie Galeano-DeMott

cooler months, opt for patio seating for waterfront views. • Lunch Mon.-Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/364-9601. $$

Prime Catch —700 E. Woolbright Road. Seafood Waterfront restaurants are few and far between in our neck of the woods, and those with good food are even more rare. Prime Catch, at the foot of the Woolbright bridge on the Intracoastal, is a best-kept secret. The simple pleasures here soar—a perfectly grilled piece of mahi or bouillabaisse overflowing with tender fish. Don’t miss one of the best Key lime pies around. • Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch. 561/737-8822. $$

Sushi Simon 1628 S. Federal Highway. Japanese. It’s been called “Nobu North” by some aficionados, and for good reason. Local sushi-philes jam the narrow dining room for such impeccable nigirizushi as hamachi and uni (Thursdays), as well as more elaborate dishes like snapper Morimoto and tuna tartare. Creative, elaborate rolls are a specialty. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/731-1819. $$

DELRAY BEACH

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. $$$$

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. $$

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. $$

Costa By OK&M —502 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Costa takes chef/owner Coton Stine’s dedication to farm-to-table fare to an elevated level with its seasonal menu. Working closely with local farms and vendors, Stine curates deliciously healthy dishes that tempt your palate while fueling your body. For those with dietary restrictions, the dishes are clearly labeled gluten-free or vegan, which adds a sense of ease to the experience. The corner space is comfortable and embraces natural elements with its wicker chairs, lanterns, greenery and expansive sliding doors. • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 561/501-6115. • $$

Cut 432—432 E. Atlantic Ave. Steakhouse. Hipper decor, a more casual vibe and an inventive take on steak-house favorites make this sleek restaurant just different enough to be interesting. Starters such as ceviche (prepared Peruvian style) and ultrarich oysters Rockefeller are first-rate, while the wet-aged beef is appropriately tender and tasty. • Dinner nightly. 561/272-9898. $$$

Dada—52 N. Swinton Ave. Contemporary American. The same provocative, whimsical creativity that spawned Dada the art movement infuses Dada the restaurant, giving it a quirky charm all

its own. The comfort food with a moustache menu has its quirky charms, too, like shake-n-bake pork chops with sweet-savory butterscotch onions, and a brownie-vanilla ice cream sundae with strips of five-spice powdered bacon. The wittily decorated 1920s-vintage house-turned-restaurant is, as they say, a trip. • Dinner nightly. 561/330-3232. $$

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

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. $$

Eathai —1832 S. Federal Highway. Thai. If you’re craving approachable and affordable Thai food, put Eathai at the top of

Sugar Rush

We’re fortunate to have two talented chocolatiers in our community, and they’re revealing what the best chocolates are for every occasion this holiday season

Written by CHRISTIE GALEANO-DEMOTT

After nearly 50 years in the business, Norman Love is a master at crafting ultra-premium handmade confections that are as luxurious as they are nostalgic. Born in Pennsylvania, he was raised in Hollywood among family gatherings that often felt like competitive baking challenges. He then refined his craft in kitchens along our eastern seashore from Miami Beach to Deerfield Beach, ultimately serving as the Ritz-Carlton’s executive pastry chef for 13 years. When it was time to expand his Norman Love Confections (NLC) brand, which he started in Southwest Florida 25 years ago, he knew it was time to bring one of his decadent chocolate and dessert salons to South Florida. Now he has two, in Delray Beach and Boca Raton.

“When I created NLC, I always believed that chocolates look the same when you open the box, regardless of the quality, so I wanted to put that artistry, that wow factor, that element of surprise that existed in the dining experience into a box of chocolates.”

Love prides himself on having a strong focus on high-quality ingredients and singular flavors that are relatable, like cheesecake, caramel sea salt and peanut butter and jelly. But the key is, they must be perfectly executed.

Best dessert to bring to a company lunch: Our Büche de Noël yule logs are made to be shared—and are only available in December. Best hostess gift: NLC candy cane box with our exclusive holiday chocolate flavors.

Best dessert to bring to the family holiday reunion: Our s’mores bark made with shards of chocolate blended with chunks of graham cracker and mini marshmallows.

Best overall underrated dessert: Crème brûlée. It’s simple, but when properly executed, it’s perfection.

Tyler Levitetz started 5150 Chocolate Co. to push the boundaries of bean-to-bar chocolate. He aimed to craft crazy good chocolate from the finest sources right in his hometown. That’s why he named it 5150—slang for “crazy”—and opened it in Delray Beach eight years ago. Levitetz is one of the few chocolatiers who makes his own chocolate from scratch, starting by being laser-focused on sourcing his raw cocoa from only the best producers across the globe, from Uganda to Peru. As a self-described chocolate mad scientist, he isn’t afraid to try new things. His Wonka factory has released some wild flavors, from fried pickle chocolate to crispy red snapper skin dipped in chocolate.

Still, his signature chocolate bars, bonbons, peanut butter cups and sea salt caramels are what have made him so successful with everyone, including local restaurants, luxury hotels and even Whole Foods Market. He’s constantly innovating and, as an artist, enjoys creating custom orders. To date, he has more than 10,000 chocolate molds on hand for whatever a client may want. Three years ago, he even released his first batch of date-sweetened bars, replacing refined sugar but never compromising on taste.

Best treat to impress when meeting the parents: Our bonbons, for sure.

Best hostess gift: Keep it classic and classy with one of our chocolate bars.

Best dessert to bring to the family holiday reunion: Our turtles. You really can’t go wrong with them.

Best overall underrated dessert: Toffee doesn’t get the love it deserves.

Chocolates from Norman Love Confections

Offerings from 5150 Chocolate Co.

EAT & DRINK RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

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. $$

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. $$

Henry’s —16850 Jog Road. American. This casual, unpretentious restaurant in the west part of town never fails to delight diners. Expect attentive service and crisp execution of everything—from meat loaf, burgers and fried chicken to flatbreads and hefty composed salads. • Lunch Mon.–Sat. Dinner nightly. 561/638-1949. $$

Il Girasole —2275 S. Federal Highway. Northern Italian. If you want Northern Italian in a low-key atmosphere, and nobody rushing you out the door, this is your spot. Start with something from the very good wine list. Try the yellowtail snapper, the penne Caprese and the capellini Gamberi, and leave room for the desserts. Reservations recommended. • Dinner Tues.–Sun. 561/272-3566. $$

J&J Seafood Bar & Grill —634 E. Atlantic Ave. Seafood. This local favorite on Atlantic Avenue—owned by John Hutchinson (who is also the chef) and wife Tina—serves up everything from burgers and wraps to a menu brimming with seafood options. Don’t forget to inquire about the stunning array of 10 specials—every night. This is is a bona fide local go-to spot that never disappoints. • Lunch and dinner Tues.–Sat. 561/272-3390. $$

Jimmy’s Bistro —9 S. Swinton Ave. International. Jimmy’s Bistro is a casual neighborhood concept serving

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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, 561/544-8181; 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., Delray Beach. Contemporary American. Owner Joey Lograsso and chef Jason Binder have curated a balanced choreography of fascinating yet approachable dishes. The menu travels the world from Italy to Asia and showcases Binder’s formal training with elevated dishes that are exceptionally executed. It’s vibey with a great playlist, and the design, reminiscent of a cool Wynwood bar, is industrial with exposed ducts, reclaimed wood and sculptural filament chandeliers. It’s a place that amps up all your senses. • Dinner Tues.-Sun. 561/499-2200. $$$

The Office —201 E. Atlantic Ave. Contemporary American. Your office is nothing like this eclectic gastropub, unless your office sports more than two dozen craft beers on tap and a menu that flits from burgers and fries to mussels. Don’t miss the restaurant’s winning take on the thick, juicy Prime beef burger and simply wicked maple-frosted donuts with bacon bits and two dipping sauces. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/278-3796. $$

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. $

AVALON | BEACH HOUSE

Brings The Vibe From Day To Night To The Heart Of Delray Beach.

Whether you’re dropping by for a relaxed lunch, a delightful dinner, or a late-night indulgence (with the kitchen open until 2 AM), we’ve got every craving covered.

Hours: 10:00am - 2:00am - 7 days a week

Brunch Daily Featuring Bottomless Cocktails 10:00am - 3:30pm Dinner: 3:30pm - 11:00pm Happy Hour Everyday 11:00 - 6:00pm & 12:00am - Close

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. • 561/2719423. $$

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. $$

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. 561/495-5570. $$

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

Vic & Angelo’s —290 E. Atlantic Ave. Italian

People watching is a staple ingredient here, a complement to the Italian fare. The wine menu is robust, mainly grounded in Italy but with choices from around the world. Larger than personal pies, thin-crust pizzas are family-friendly, while you won’t want to share the Quattro Formaggi Tortellini, fluffy purses filled with al dente pear and topped with truffle cream. 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

NESTLED IN THE HEART OF DELRAY BEACH, CAMPI ITALIAN IS AN UPPER EAST SIDE - INSPIRED JEWEL, CHANNELING THE TIMELESS ALLURE OF NEW YORK’S ICONIC 40-YEAR-OLD CAMPAGNOLA. THIS CASUAL, YET SWANKY DESTINATION TRANSPORTS GUESTS ON A REFINED ITALIAN VOYAGE, WHERE AGE-OLD FAVORITES ARE REIMAGINED WITH AN UPSCALE TWIST.

• A lively late-night bar scene

• A one-of-a-kind curated wine list

• Brunch every Saturday & Sunday

Private dining for any occasion

Fun Italian-inspired cocktails

Elegant al fresco dining

•

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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. 561/2789570. $$

LAKE WORTH BEACH

Oceano Kitchen —512 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth Beach. Contemporary American. Chefs and owners Jeremy and Cindy Bearman 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. For newcomers, it’s cash only and it doesn’t take reservations, so get there early or be prepared to wait. 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. 561/801-5000. $$

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

Buzz Bite III

Where to Eat During Miami Art Week

If you’re venturing down south the first week of December to admire art and rub elbows with celebrities, we’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants so you can eat your way through Miami with confidence.

VICE VERSA

Aperitivo bar in downtown, finalist for a 2025 James Beard Award, led by a star-studded team. Cocktails are amazing, but so are the pizzas, loved by both locals and visitors. viceversamia.com

MACCHIALINA

Miami Beach’s staple Italian restaurant, a 2024 James Beard Award semifinalist, got a stunning makeover. Its rustic dishes pair perfectly with its impressive wine list. macchialina.com

JOE’S STONE CRAB

Icon since 1913. It’s stone crab season; go for the crab but stay for the Key lime pie. Great people-watching while you wait at the bar with a glass of wine in hand. joesstonecrab.com

SUNNY’S

Pandemic pop-up turned wildly popular permanent steakhouse. Beef is the draw, but its other dishes are just as delicious. Beautiful space regardless of where you sit. sunnysmia.com

COTE

Sultry space with an equally sexy Korean steakhouse vibe and massive wine list. cotekoreansteakhouse.com

—Christie Galeano-DeMott

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

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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. 561/2900104. $$

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

Austin Republic—4801 S. Dixie Highway. Barbecue. The casual backyard atmosphere sets the scene for chef James Strine’s unpretentious barbecue with a unique Mexican flair. The menu isn’t extensive, but all the barbecue greats are there alongside its Mexican counterparts. Brisket, ribs and pulled pork share the space with tacos, burritos and enchiladas. And don’t sleep on the chicken sandwich. Trust us. • Dinner Tues.-Sat. $

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. $$

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

EAT & DRINK REST AURANT DIRECTORY

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. $$

Planta—700 S. Rosemary Ave. Vegan. For those who savor every juicy, tender and flavorful bite of a well-prepared burger, patronizing a vegan establishment may seem like a sacrilegious act. But what if a restaurant served up plant-based dishes that surprised your taste buds with exploding flavors? Here vegans don’t have to worry about ingredients making the cut, and non-vegans can enjoy approachable and appetizing plant-based dishes that won’t make you yearn for a steak. • Lunch and dinner daily. 561/208-5222. $$

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. $$$

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

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Boca Raton Insider

BOCA NURSING SERVICES, INC

Rose Glamoclija, RN, is the founder and administrator of Boca Nursing Services for over three decades. The concierge private nursing care is made available in the comfort of your home, hospital room, facilities stay and while residing at assisted living or rehabilitation facilities. With compassion, and concern for every person they serve in the surrounding areas in four counties. Rose provides guidance and resources for families needing in-home support nursing care.

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ALTIER JEWELERS

An authorized dealer of many globally recognized jewelry and timepiece brands since 1960. Altier Jewelers provides on-site jewelry repair and watch service, custom jewelry design, and manufacturing of engagement rings and diamond jewels. As well as the ability to source unique items that fit your one of a kind style.

701 S. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL 33432

561.395.3462

altierjewelers.com

CHEF RINO APREA BRINGS BROOKLYN’S FINE ITALIAN FARE TO BOCA RATON

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

• Holiday Parties • Open daily 5pm - 10pm

• Private Party Room • Live Music Daily

• Off-Premise Catering • Gift Cards (for every $100 - Get $20 Free)

Make Your Reservations Now...

Christmas Eve Specials and Dining starting at 5pm

New Year's Eve $55 Prefixe Menu from 5pm - 6:30pm

Late seating for NYE starting at 8pm

39 SE 1st Avenue, Boca Raton, FL 33432

561.244.8282 • rinosofboca.com

2,000+ 2,000+

GEORGE SNOW SCHOLARSHIP FUND’S GARDEN OF DREAMS

WHERE: The Addison

WHAT: Known for some of the city’s biggest fundraiser bashes, the George Snow Scholarship Fund (GSSF) this year unveiled a new signature event to support deserving scholars. “Garden of Dreams,” hosted at The Addison, honored two South Florida philanthropic powerhouses: Christine E. Lynn and Barbara Schmidt. But more than just a celebration, the event supported local youths as they prepare for college, with ticket sales going toward GSSF’s Scholar Packs, bundles that include everything a rising college freshman might need on campus. The afternoon also included a discussion between Schmidt and Lynn and moderated by Terry Fedele, in which the duo shared inspiring words for attendees. “Together, we make it happen,” said Lynn. “It doesn’t matter how much you give, but when you believe in what you believe in and you give what you can, you’re making a difference.”

1: Peg Anderson, Nicole Flier, Linda Paton, Lauren Muñoz, Jill Bijolle

2: Sarah Doyle, Dre Garcia

3: Wendy Maschler

4: Ingrid Fulmer, Sharon DiPietro

5: Joni Goldberg, Zoe Lanham

6: Olivia Hollaus, Rochelle Lecavalier

7: Christine E. Lynn, Barb Schmidt

8: Terry Fedele, Robin Deyo

9: Allison Stewart, Zoe Lanham, Haley Winstead

10: Peg Anderson, Dorothy MacDiarmid

11: Nicole Flier, Danielle Rosse, Jill Bijolle

YELLOW RIBBON FUND’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

WHERE: The Boca Raton

WHAT: The Yellow Ribbon Fund celebrated a major milestone with a record-breaking $630,000 raised for its 20th anniversary gala. Yellow Ribbon Fund Executive Director Gina Harrow welcomed more than 300 guests to the Roaring ‘20s “Great Gatsby”-themed affair, which included a festive cocktail reception, a presentation of the colors, and a stirring rendition of the national anthem by Jessica King. “Looking back over the past 20 years, my heart fills with gratitude and immense pride for the work Yellow Ribbon Fund has accomplished,” said King. “It’s truly remarkable to think that what began as a small group of local business members in a room at Walter Reed has evolved into a national organization, touching the lives of over 40,000 military families.” Guests were also treated to a powerful keynote speech by U.S. Army Capt. Ben Harrow that reinforced the nonprofit’s mission of supporting veterans and their families.

3:

4:

5:

1: Jay Brandt, Pamela and Robert Weinroth

2: Gina Harrow, Zoe Lanham

William Slater, Capt. Ben Harrow, Mike Morris

Cam Brooks, Sarah Doyle, Jack Maloney, Dr. Jacqui Moroco, Kelly Brooks

Nicole Flier, Gina Harrow, Khrishna Kellerman, Jill Bijolle

BOCA HELPING HANDS MONOPOLY AND CASINO NIGHT

WHERE: The Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

WHAT: Supporters of Boca Helping Hands took chances and passed go to raise funds for the nonprofit’s mission of providing food and financial assistance to those in need. Guests enjoyed an opulent Roaring ‘20s theme with speakeasy-inspired live music, casino games, dinner and cocktails, and of course, a tournament to crown the Monopoly Champion.

Boca Helping Hands Board President Gary Peters, a two-time National Monopoly Champion himself, mediated the tournament, with Mike Wohl emerging as victor. The event was a resounding success thanks to the planning committee and its co-chairs, Yvette and Chris Palermo and Jessica and Alex Price. Boca magazine served as media sponsor.

1: Standing: Binky Fash, Andrea Chang, Yoli Bennan, Jessica Price, Alex Price, Chris Palermo, Yvette Palermo, Wendy Sadusky; kneeling: Andrea Virgin, Trisha Vaca

2: Michael Smith, Gary Peters, Hayley Peters

3: Jessica Price, Robin Deyo

4: Gary Peters, Bob Tucker, Mike Wohl, Leonard Wierzbowski, Lisa Pechter, Tara Currier

5: Chris and Yvette Palermo, Jessica and Alex Price

HOMESAFE

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

WHERE: Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

WHAT: HomeSafe supporters hit the links and raised some green for the nonprofit’s annual golf tournament. Eighty-four golfers broke into teams of four to compete in the tournament, bringing in $77,000 in proceeds to support survivors of child abuse and domestic violence in South Florida. Winners of the women’s division was the team of Jayne Malfitano, Jori Farrell, Kimberly Scaggs and Jeanette Austin, while Jeffrey Petrone, Enrique Rivera, Keith Diego and Mike Arsenault won the men’s division. In the mixed division, the team of Paulette Comparato, Lori Glover, Lori D’Angelo and Matthew D’Angelo clinched the victory. This year’s tournament was made possible through the support of golf ambassadors Fern Schmidt, Patty Larkin, Brooke Qualk, Logan Shalmi, Pete Austin and Phil Procacci, as well as sponsors Rochelle LeCavalier, the MacCutcheon Family Foundation, Christine Lynn and more.

1: Kimberly Scaggs, Jeanette Austin, Jori Farrell, Jayne Malfitano

2: Joe Scaggs, Jim MacCutcheon

3: Matthew Ladika, Dick Damron

4: Susan Scaggs, Harold Groome

5: Neil Gillman and Ray Keenan

6: Golf Ambassadors Logan Shalmi, Patty Larkin, Fern Schmidt, Pete Austin, Phil Procacci

7: Dick Schmidt, Sharon Kusuke, Ward Doyle

8: Paulette Comparato, Lori Glover, Lori D’Angelo, Matthew D’Angelo

9: Michael Gillen, Rochelle LeCavalier and Luc Desjardins

10: Debbie Schmidt, Lisa Addeo, Beverly Ginter, Ibe May

11: Andrew Lerner, Logan Shalmi, Michael Blair

12: Patty and Peter Larkin

N.I.C.K.’S NIGHT AT THE DERBY

WHERE: Broken Sound Country Club

WHAT: The Chiera Family Foundation’s 32nd-annual fundraiser invited more than 300 guests to don their best Kentucky Derby attire and support children battling cancer. The theme for the evening was N.I.C.K.’s (Nothing’s Impossible for Cancer Kids) Night at the Derby, with attendees enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and photo ops with horses amid Churchill Downsinspired decor. The event raised more than $450,000, all benefiting the Chiera Family Foundation’s summer camp programming and college scholarships for students fighting cancer. Dr. Lauren Bendesky, a former N.I.C.K.’s Camp attendee, was the honored guest of the fundraiser, and shared her inspiring journey from her Stage IV Neuroblastoma diagnosis in high school to graduating with a medical degree from University of Pennsylvania with the support of the foundation.

1: Matt and Erika Anderson (left) with horse trainer

2: Lauren Bendesky

3: Participants in N.I.C.K.’s programs and scholarships

4: Coral Springs Rotary Club Donation

5: Live auction to raise funds for the Chiera Family Foundation

6: A table of diners at the Chiera Family Foundation fundraiser

November/December 2025 issue. Vol. 45 No. 8.

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Boca magazine proudly salutes LuAnn Warner-Prokos as our talented, exclusive FACES of Philanthropy photographer!

We are grateful for her incredible creativity, generosity, and the unwavering support she gives to our nonprofits and community partners.

Thank you to LuAnn for all that she does to make a difference!

Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center Phyllis & Harvey Sandler Center

With you, we ensure every Jewish life counts, no matter who they are or where they are. As a community of doers, we are focused on providing support, solidarity and critical funds to our partner agencies in Israel, at home and around the world as they come to the aid of our families and friends.

With you, we can prepare for any and every need. Now, more than ever, is the time.

Donate today at jewishboca.org/donate

A Christmas Carol

Take a break from the news cycle and reclaim the season

Written by MARIE SPEED

There is no better year and no better season than right now to shut off the white noise of politics and chaos and double down on how we want to live. I am thinking of how things once were in Christmases past, and how we can celebrate the holidays here and now in a way that honors who we are as individuals, and what we believe.

Of course I will get in my car and go buy a live Fraser fir, between 6 and 7 feet in the same shape as the one on a Lenox Christmas plate—not too fat, not too skinny, just big enough to fill the same corner it always does. My friend Lynn will walk up the street like she does every year and help me put the lights on, and I will then decorate it a day later, with every ornament attached to a memory, from a small canoe (commemorating the time my former husband and I capsized on the Loxahatchee River) to a tiny plastic elf I remember from the time I was 5. There are Christopher Radko ornaments like the flamingo in a hat, and ones from Old Florida, like the shimmery glass orange slice or a sparkly starfish. My tree doesn’t have a theme or a color scheme; it never has. It is a collection of all the years of my life, the memories of friends and family and adventures and lost pets and places I have lived. It is completely real, assembled from one life, well-lived, full of loss and joy.

I will also go Christmas shopping, and not completely online. I like to wander into Williams Sonoma (chocolate peppermint bark) or have popovers for lunch in Neiman Marcus. I will go to Sugarboo for really good candles, and I like to buy those stupid necklaces that light up. I like the idea of pâté and eggnog, and I will watch every old Christmas movie I possibly can, saving Alastair Sim’s “A Christmas Carol”

until Christmas Eve, if at all possible. And I will cry at the end like I always do. I will go to the boat parade and see Michael and Don for an Italian Christmas Eve dinner. If we’re lucky with the weather, maybe we can even open the windows.

The most precious luxury, the one I save for myself and only indulge in now and then, is to remember. This is where it gets tricky and sad and beautiful all at once. It comes in images: my big brother in a bathrobe leading me by the hand downstairs on Christmas morning. (That must have been the year Santa brought me a pink and silver tutu I insisted on wearing nonstop because I was 5 and believed I was a ballerina.) I can see my Grandmother Talbot awash in White Shoulders in her smart lambswool coat and soft kid gloves sitting next to me in the backseat as Dad drove all of us through downtown Washington, D.C., to see the Christmas lights. My sister, cradling a baby doll or fishing ribbon candy out of her Christmas stocking. There are later images, too, much later, when we’d lost parents and husbands but still gathered in Colorado to wade through the snow up at Bear Lake. And then two years ago when my brother, in his last Christmas, treated all of us to a luxury private day in Disneyland so his only granddaughter could fly on the Dumbo ride.

It is these images, the ones that flood through me this time of year, that are the real gifts, the real heart, of the holiday season. Those times we all have stored inside us are a reminder of where we come from, and what really matters.

They are times I suspect are made of love, stronger than any outside forces or fears we have right now. They are what this season is all about, and good guideposts going forward.

Marie Speed

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