I found three superb restaurants during my stay in Boca Raton. Three that thrilled me beyond expectations. I don’t know about you, but travelling to places that I’m not familiar with always makes me leery about finding the best restaurants by what’s listed on the Internet. I always prefer to ask the staff of the hotel where I stay and, for me it never fails to be the best way to find the best restaurants where the locals eat, not where the Internet sites want the visitors to eat.
Big City Tavern, was my favorite of all the recommendations, it’s a popular venue located in the ‘Shops of Boca Center’ and after talking with the wait staff, I found out it was just revamped by new owners, which apparently has only done wonders for its popularity. They recreated an American Tavern classic establishment, which is reflected by the wood and leather setting and the menu. Like Kobe Beef Sliders, or what was my favorite the Spago-style pizza with Portobell mushrooms, goat cheese, spinach and pinenuts. But, I could tell it was the fish dishes to be the more popular with the other guests. After dinner, I hung around the bar area, which had a lively crowd. I really recommend this restaurant as being your first stop.
Arturo’s Restorante was recommended by the reservation staff at my hotel, this place is what I would call the Italian Grand-Daddy of fine dinning. Vincenzo and Rosario Gismondi are the owners, and as any good Italian restaurant should have, their children also have a hand in running the establishment. The restaurant is old-school classic Italian, and the waitstaff is clad in tuxedo’s and are veteran pros. I really enjoyed the Antipasti trolley that goes beyond the ordinary. I had the Costoletta di Vitello alla Griglia (grilled veal chop loin). All I can say is bellissimo! Cooked to perfection. Their wine list is outstanding and the building is reminiscent of a Tuscan villa.
The last restaurant I had the privilege to have dinner at, and was recommended by the valet parking attendant, was Cafe Joley. The owner, John Suley has created a charming bistro serving contemporary French cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean influence, and tosses in a touch of southern comfort. This very intimate, personal setting creates a waiting time to be seated. While I was waiting, I looked over the menu, which changes often I was told. The smells coming from the kitchen were tantalizing as I drank a nice red wine and making me very, very hungry. I ordered the Crispy Kataffi with encrusted Prawns and served with collard greens and sweet potatoes (the southern comfort touch). The wait was worth it, every bite was a new taste sensation, the collard greens would put any southern restaurant to shame. Very delightful and refreshingly light.
Next time you are in Boca Raton, at least visit one of the restaurants mentioned above, you won’t be disappointed. If none of these restaurants appeal to your particular appetite, ask one of your hotel staff for a recommendations, you can’t go wrong.