A Palette of Flavor: Exploring Palm Beach County's Culinary Canvas

Welcome, fellow food enthusiasts!

As a South Florida painter, my journey into the world of art has led me to a profound realization: art is not confined to the canvases adorning gallery walls; it permeates every aspect of our lives. Art is about the colors we choose, the spaces we inhabit, and, significantly, the flavors that grace our tables. Today, I'm taking you on a delectable journey through Palm Beach County, Florida – my home, and a haven for culinary delights. I present to you, in no particular order, my curated list of 12 favorite local restaurants that are sure to satisfy all those cravings!

Cafe Chardonnay

Address: 4533 PGA Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418

Cafe Chardonnay, nestled in the heart of Palm Beach Gardens, blends contemporary American cuisine with a touch of European flair. Cafe Chardonnay partners with several local farmers to offer the freshest flavors. A true gem! We've dined here for holiday family dinners on more than one occasion and it's always fantastic. There's definitely something on the menu for everyone. From the moment you step inside, the warm, cozy ambiance and attentive staff set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Favorite Menu Items:

Burgundy Braised Beef Short Rib

and if they have the banana pie, don't skip it! Seriously.

Parking: Free & easy!

Buccan

Address: 350 S County Rd, Palm Beach, FL 33480

Upscale and totally chic! This is a fantastic spot for girls night out or special date night. Known for its small plates meant for sharing, Buccan's menu is a fun celebration of diverse flavors.

Reservations can be a bit hard to come by, but this place is worth the extra effort!

Favorite Menu Items:

It's all good, honestly.

Small bites are a must. I could go there and just live off of those and be happy.

Don't skip the Short Rib Empanadas (I know, more short rib but they are SO GOOD)

and the Veal Chop is *chefs kiss*

Parking: Valet or get lucky with street parking nearby. The walk will be scenic & pleasant if you opt to park yourself, so that's positive!

Barcello

Address: 11603 Highway A1A, North Palm Beach, FL 33408

This inventive New American gem with a global twist brings surprise to each dish. Chef Robert's creations, blending East Coast classics with global influences, grace the ever-evolving menus. You'll love the upscale, intimate ambiance. Every time we've been it has been a relaxed, cozy, quiet dinner spot. Barcello is lovely!

Menu Tips:

The menu is constantly changing but always pretty extensive so there's something for everyone for sure! If it sounds good, I'm sure it is. Leave room for dessert too!

Parking: Valet or free & easy dedicated parking right behind the restaurant.

Jewell Bistro

Address: 330 Clematis St, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

For a taste of modern American cuisine with a creative twist, Jewell Bistro on Clematis Street is a must-visit. The ambiance is truly one of a kind, and the menu is a fusion of flavors that reflect the eclectic spirit of West Palm Beach.

What sets Jewell Bistro apart is its commitment to excellence through the use of local, fresh ingredients sourced from farms right here in our backyard. Jewell Bistro's use of locally-sourced ingredients adds an extra layer of freshness and community connection to each dish. 

A friend in town requested a local gem, the more hole-in-the-wall the better and so obviously Jewell was first to mind! They loved it, and I am pretty confident you will too.

Reservations recommended unless you're popping in right at opening.

Menu Recommendations:

If you’re not sure what to order, definitely get the burger!

If they have the red shrimp, do not pass on these. They really do taste like lobster. I promise they are not lying.

Your server will give you the full menu run-down and even share where everything is sourced in the process. Such a cool experience all around.

Parking: The only "eh" part about Jewell but we do always manage to find street parking. Not worth letting this deter you! 

City Cellar Wine Bar & Grill

Address: 700 S Rosemary Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

You'll love brunch at City Cellar in West Palm Beach, but really any time of day is great here. Located in the vibrant Rosemary Square, it's not just a restaurant experience. After indulging, explore the square for beautiful shopping, a leisurely stroll, and enchanting night views with the iconic light-up tree and fountain – a perfect win-win for any visit.

The brussels appetizer is a must every time we visit. They are not your typical brussel sprouts and seriously oh so good!

PS. My kids LOVE the fountain so you may want to plan ahead with a towel and change of clothes if you're feeling adventurous!

Parking: Garage parking

Leftovers Cafe

Address: 451 University Blvd, Jupiter, FL 33458

Don't let the name fool you – Leftovers Cafe is anything but an afterthought. Leftovers is definitely more casual/relaxed than some of the others on this list, but the flavors deliver. This Jupiter gem prides itself on sustainability and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The ever-evolving menu showcases the chef's creativity, offering a delightful surprise with each visit. From savory brunch options to hearty dinner plates, Leftovers Cafe is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.

Menu Must-Try:

If you're not sure what to try.. definitely the sweet potato crusted, fresh, locally caught fish! This is our whole family's go to basically, but we've never ordered something we didn't enjoy.

Parking: Free & easy

Farmer's Table

Address: 951 US-1, North Palm Beach, FL 33408

There's one in Boca too, but I really prefer the North Palm location for the views.

Savor farm-to-table freshness at Farmer's Table in North Palm Beach. With locally-sourced ingredients, enjoy straightforward, vibrant dishes overlooking delightful golf course views—an ideal setting for afternoons and sunsets in the heart of the community.

Menu favorites:

I personally really enjoy their salads & mahi tacos. They have a pretty extensive menu so it is definitely easy to find something for everyone. 

Also worth noting: they do serve brunch, lunch and dinner!

Parking: Free & easy parking lot at the golf course. Maybe valet too?

Rose's Daughter

Address: 169 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

Step into the cozy ambiance of Rose's Daughter, a delightful Italian eatery in Delray Beach. The menu pays homage to classic Italian flavors, with a modern twist. From handmade pastas to wood-fired pizzas, each dish at Rose's Daughter is clearly crafted with love and expertise. It's the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Parking: We usually opt for street parking and kinda off or early hours because Delray can definitely be a bit lively. This spot is tucked away from the busier parts though!

Brule Bistro

Address: 200 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444

"One of my favorite brunch spots!"

Experience the fusion of French culinary finesse and American comfort at Brule Bistro. Tucked away in Delray Beach, this charming bistro offers a menu that showcases the chef's dedication to quality and flavor. From escargot to duck confit, each dish is a journey through the rich tapestry of French cuisine, served with a side of Southern hospitality.

Brunch Menu Favorite:

Steak & Eggs Benedict 

Fun, extensive menu and they do also serve lunch and dinner too.

Parking: Same parking situation as Rose's Daughter because it's literally right across the street! :)

Bond Street Ale & Coffee

Address: 1626 S Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach, FL 33435

Discover a hidden gem in Boynton Beach – Bond Street Ale & Coffee. This spot isn't your average coffee shop; it's a haven for great coffee, pastries, and diverse lunch and dinner options.

Coffee & Pastries: Start your day with the perfect cup of joe and indulge in delightful pastries. Bond Street offers a unique coffee experience, setting itself apart from the usual.

Lunch & Dinner Delights: Explore an international culinary journey with a menu that goes beyond typical coffee shop offerings. From lunch to dinner, savor a variety of dishes that make Bond Street a standout in Boynton Beach.

Bond Street Ale & Coffee is where coffee meets international cuisine, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for any time of day. Enjoy a different menu, exceptional flavors, and a welcoming ambiance at this hidden culinary gem. Cheers to a delightful experience!

Parking: So much better than it used to be! There's a decent sized parking lot now and a garage was built for the condos that just went up next door.

Stage Kitchen & Bar

Address: 2000 PGA Blvd, Suite 5506, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33408

Stage Kitchen & Bar brings together an eclectic mix of global flavors under one roof. This restaurant is perfect for those who love to explore new tastes and enjoy dishes crafted with creativity and passion. From Indian spices to Asian umami, every bite at Stage is a delightful surprise.

Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or ready to try something entirely new, Stage Kitchen & Bar never disappoints. The ambiance is chic yet inviting, making it an excellent spot for both casual lunches and special dinners. 

Parking: Easy lot parking.

Beacon Restaurant

Address: 1107 Lighthouse Dr, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410

Perched on the waterfront, Beacon Restaurant offers stunning views that perfectly complement its exquisite menu. Known for its superb desserts, Beacon takes dining to a whole new level when you say yes to a dessert menu. Each dessert is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to delight both the eyes and the taste buds. While the main menu offers a delectable array of dishes made from the freshest local ingredients, it’s the desserts that truly steal the show. Don't skip the lemon one! See photos below of some of the dessert offerings.

With scenic views of the marina and Jupiter Lighthouse, the serene ambiance makes Beacon an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal. Whether you're inside enjoying the chic, modern decor or outside on the patio soaking up the sunset, every meal here feels like a special occasion.

Parking: Valet or plenty of free parking available, though you may have to walk a bit if you don't valet. This is at Love Street and is a shared lot for a handful of spots.

In conclusion, the Palm Beaches are a true paradise for food enthusiasts. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring these tasty gems will undoubtedly leave you with a newfound appreciation for the vibrant flavors that define this little corner of South Florida. Cheers to good food, great company, and the endless possibilities that unfold when art and cuisine come together!

Lots of love,

Bonnie

PS. If you visit any of these I hope you'll reach out and let me know what you thought!