For nearly two decades, Brulé has watched Delray Beach evolve from a sleepy beach town into a lively cultural and culinary hub. It’s seen neighboring restaurants come and go. Still, chef-owner Suzanne Perrotto has steadily remained committed to using locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that are both inventive and comforting, and offering warm hospitality. Perrotto has tweaked all of those ingredients to get her recipe for success just right.
The bistro was humming with energy the evening I visited. Brulé doesn’t take reservations, so I always try to arrive early in hopes of securing at least an empty seat at the quaint bar. This time, I hit the jackpot with the last available table. I started with the Shrimp & Maine Lobster Ceviche ($17) and Tostada ($17). The ceviche introduced a bright freshness to my palate, balanced by a spicy kick from the Serrano pepper. I enjoyed the generous seafood bites, which were juicy and tender, with the avocado adding creaminess and the Marcona almonds providing texture. The tostada, although trickier to share because you need to cut and portion it out, was equally as pleasing. The tenderloin pieces sit atop a crunchy tostada draped in melted spicy cheddar, but it’s the avocado crema and pickled shallots that really make the dish stand out—both for their creaminess and their fun, tangy kick.
Perrotto excels at crafting comfort dishes that still include a surprising element. For example, sometimes you just want a delicious taco or a juicy burger. That evening, I was craving both. But the tacos weren’t just any regular fish tacos ($19.50). The grouper cheek elevated the dish; blackening it added layers, and the pineapple salsa provided a sweet finish that tied everything together. The burger ($17) also stood out. Its short rib blend was juicy and savory, and instead of the usual toppings, the roasted mushrooms and tarragon aioli inside the perfectly toasted bun gave the dish the boost it needed to hit it out of the park.
Desserts here vary with the seasons, but there’s usually a signature crème brûlée and heavenly macarons. This evening, I tried the Chocolate Mousse Cake ($12). It’s an indulgent dessert of white and dark chocolate mousse and vanilla nougat that reminded me of a flourless chocolate cake and a chocolate mousse bombe combined into one decadent, gooey, round, sweet treat—another surprising take on a dish that left me satisfied and excited to come back again for more delightful curveballs.
IF YOU GO
PARKING: Street parking, garage
HOURS: Lunch Wednesday – Sunday 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Dinner Tuesday – Thursday 4 – 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 4 – 11 p.m.; Sunday 4 – 9 p.m.
PRICES: $14 – $62
WEBSITE: brulegastrokitchen.com
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