If you can’t get away this summer or perhaps need some travel inspiration for a fall trip, our local restaurants offer you a variety of international culinary destinations without having to travel too far from home.
Spain
Embrace the country’s love for sharing small plates at Patio Tapas & Beer. Choose from a wide selection of montaditos, or open-faced sandwiches, and bite-size portions like the chorizo, octopus and Spain’s beloved gambas al ajillo. The typical dish may be simple with its wild-caught shrimp, but it’s packed with flavor and its sauce will have you dunking the toasted baguette repeatedly to ensure you get the very last bits of sliced garlic marinated in brandy.
France
At Pistache, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the land of warm baguettes, bright wines and endless cheese varieties. Its classic French bistro aesthetic complements its menu that offers diners options like onion soup, escargot and steak frites. But it’s the famous duck a l’orange that will truly make you feel French. The crispy duck is served with an orange chili glaze, haricot verts and a side of rice.
Greece
While Almond’s nod to French bistros is apparent in its design, chef Jason Weiner’s culinary team explores new dishes each season by pulling from their travel experiences and marrying them with locally sourced ingredients to create their unique spin on classic dishes. As you bite into Almond’s summertime spanakopita, or spinach pie, close your eyes and you’ll almost feel a salty Aegean Sea breeze.
Japan
Kapow Noodle Bar does a standout job of honoring traditions while putting its stamp on its dishes. That’s apparent with its tonkotsu ramen that transports you to Japan. Starting with its dashi broth, made from Japanese mushrooms and seaweed, and housemade bone broth, it simmers for 48 hours and is served with fresh ramen noodles, ramen egg, marinated pork belly, mushrooms, preserved bamboo shoots and sauteed bok choy.
Italy
Chef Lisabet Summa of Elisabetta’s proudly showcases her housemade cacio e pepe at both her Delray and West Palm Beach locations. The classic Roman dish is a hearty portion of spaghetti chitarra blended with Pecorino Romano and cracked black pepper, and it will have you longing for la dolce vita.
