Here are six local restaurants that caught our eye for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
La Tre
249 East Palmetto Park Road
Boca Raton, Fla., 33432
561/392-4568
For 24 years, Toi Duong, with his commanding presence, has warmly greeted his guests at this quaint Vietnamese restaurant. His wife is the chef and this dynamic duo serves up cuisine that celebrates the flavors and textures of their native land. Dishes are light, and loaded with fresh ingredients. We love the tangy Vietnamese spring rolls and the Happy Pancake– a rice batter crepe filled with shrimp, pork and vegetables. Reasonably priced entrees and a small, but compelling, wine list make this a must stop on your next restaurant outing.
Too Jays
5030 Champion Blvd.
Boca Raton, Fla., 33496
561/241-5903
Great omelets, great bagels with fresh lox with a smear, plus great service makes this restaurant a must for those that want their day started with a super carb-fueled meal. Too Jays’ menu is extensive. Try their fresh squeezed orange juice and hot coffee on your next breakfast meandering.
Atlantique Café
777 East Atlantic Ave.
Delray Beach, Fla., 33483
561/272-1170
The first thing I go for at Atlantique Café are the fresh baked biscuits with country gravy (a certified vein clogger), followed by eggs and homemade corn beef hash. The eggs benedict, served with a creamy hollandaise sauce, with fresh home fries is always on my wife’s radar. My kids go for the French toast. Next Sunday, blow a few hours at this delightful venue.
Watercolors Café at the Bridge Hotel
999 East Camino Real
Boca Raton, Fla., 33432
561/368-9500
Watercolors Café has been completely remodeled and it is over the top. It is the only restaurant on the water and is simply delightful. The food is quite good (try the Eggsadilla!) and the service is friendly and fast. For over 30 years we have had many a breakfast and highly recommend it. Make it a priority this weekend for breakfast or lunch!
Trattoria Romana
499 East Palmetto Park Road
Boca Raton, Fla., 33432
561/393.6715
Trattoria Romana added a new bar a few months ago and it is a welcomed addition to this once-crowded bistro. The ER Boutique was moved to the West and a delightful cocktail lounge and eating area replaced it. The food is some of the best in Boca, as Chef Arturo Gismondi serves up such creations a Rigatoni Bolognese, fall-off-the-bone Osso Bucco, and Langastino’s over linguine (ask for the price before you order) are outstanding. Plus a host of specially prepared dishes will make your taste buds come alive for days.
Phyllis G’s Enigma
2727 North Federal Highway
Delray Beach, Fla., 33483
561/243.6377
The best sangria in South Florida compliments a Cuban influenced menu that features two delightful fish entrees – sole francese and snapper vesuvio. They are both very good. For starters, the Bahamian Chowder is outstanding, and try the Aditas Cuban Flan for dessert.
