Foodies are aware of Flora Fine Foods, because the family-run company’s delicious olive oil, sauces, spreads, and other items imported from Italy are sold in Palm Beach County stores. But now that family, lead by Puglia native John Flora and his daughter Angela who was raised in Parkland, has opened a bustling gourmet market in Coral Springs. They are also planning two restaurants, due in March – a fast casual spot, and a more ambitious, authentic Italian restaurant.
Also coming up in Coral Springs is another branch of Gary Rack’s Farmhouse Kitchen, but it’s a tough act to follow after the one in Royal Palm Plaza, which was a happy surprise last time I visited. The chef, Demetrio Zavala, who you might recognize from his many TV appearances, including on Chopped and Beat Bobby Flay, whips up incredibly fresh and tasty fare, including daily specials like branzino with brown rice and fresh vegetables. The nutty chicken, a regular menu item, is too popular for him to ever remove – chicken breast is covered in a combo of crunchy almonds, cashews, and walnuts, then seared and served with roasted Brussels, mushrooms and cauliflower, all drizzled with mustard vinaigrette.
Gabrielle’s Modern Italian in Delray Beach.
Over in West Palm Beach, Harry’s has become more of a scene as the area continues to grow, and it is the unofficial watering hole for the Wall Street South crowd. Diners arrive in a range of clothing, from jeans to suits, and the dishes are eye-popping. You can start with the spectacular seafood platter that serves up to four, or the goat cheese soufflé, then move on to pastas like chitarra cacio e pepe, or cavatelli with truffles and mushrooms. Entrees include Beef Wellington with truffle sauce; lamb curry with basmati rice; and braised wagyu with Barolo risotto. Of course, you can always get a porterhouse, or swordfish steak if you prefer fish. Sides range from roasted asparagus to French fries in beef tallow.
If you like your steak with an Italian twist, the buzzy Gabriella’s Modern Italian in Delray is the place to go. Start with a grilled artichoke, served with herbed yogurt; smoked burrata with butternut squash; or crispy rice with truffled spicy tuna tartare. Pastas include tagliatelle with bolognese; and linguini with shrimp scampi; and among the entrees are NY strip and a Steak Florentine for two.
Deli on Rye has been in Boca for decades, famous for its chicken soup, homemade brisket and delicious sandwiches, but despite its low key, relaxed atmosphere, bold faces regularly pop in. Most recently spotted was Billy Joel, and the day before, Steve Witkoff.
Le Colonial is now serving lunch as well as dinner. Guests can choose from the a la carte menu, with small plates like spicy yellowfin tuna tartare, Hanoi beef noodle soup, and beet salad; and large plates, including Shaking Beef and chicken curry. There are also two lunch prix fixe options: two courses for $35, or three courses for $39.
This may not be L.A., but there are some fun Mexican restaurants worth visiting. El Camino in West Palm Beach is a convivial place, with delicious tacos, sizzling fajitas and surprisingly good fish. It’s fun at all times, but during happy hour it’s an insane bargain, with an ample pour of Josh Chardonnay for a mere $6, and tacos for $3.
Rocco’s Tacos in Boca is another good option, starting with killer margaritas and guacamole made tableside. The namesake dish comes in many varieties, including smash burger tacos and pork belly tacos, but there is a “simply grilled’’ section offering fish, chicken and beef for those who prefer something lighter.
Tula at the Amrit has a whole new culinary team, and a new menu along with it. Among the updated offerings are diver scallops with fennel puree and grapefruit; halibut with turnip, herbed quinoa and corn; and bone-in ribeye with asparagus and Yukon potato puree.
Flora’s upstairs and downstairs.
Dining and Cooking