Introduction to West Palm Beach Dining
West Palm Beach, Florida, is a culinary gem that offers a diverse array of dining experiences. From traditional Italian cuisine to contemporary American dishes, and from seafood to steakhouses, there is something for every palate. Here are the top 10 restaurants in West Palm Beach that you should consider visiting.
Avocado Grill
Located just a block west of the Intracoastal in downtown West Palm Beach, Avocado Grill is a hidden gem that serves stellar food. Despite its unassuming exterior, this restaurant is renowned for its exceptional brunch menu and burgers that are on a whole other level. It is the go-to brunch choice in downtown West Palm Beach, so it is advisable to get there early to secure a table.
Blind Monk
For those who appreciate a good wine bar, the Blind Monk is a must-visit. This establishment boasts an ever-evolving wine and craft beer selection, along with small plates that are simply exquisite. Standouts include their cheeses, Cubano Curado, and chicken liver pate, which even the most skeptical diners have found irresistible.
Cafe Sapori
Cafe Sapori is a standout for its excellent Northern and Southern Italian cuisine, served in an upbeat and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant features a beautiful mahogany wood and illuminated onyx bar where they serve their signature Saporitini. Key dishes include veal meatballs with marinara sauce, linguini with clams, and pappardelle with veal osso buco sauce.
Grato
Grato, under the culinary direction of Chef Matthew Byrne, is a mecca for foodies in West Palm Beach. While the restaurant describes its cuisine as Contemporary American, this label does not do justice to the fantastic entrees served here. Highlights include charred filet of beef with garlic spinach, 'everything' crusted salmon with herbed vegetables, and pan-roasted pork chop with chevre whipped potato and apple-ginger jam.
La Sirena
La Sirena is the most award-winning restaurant on this list and offers an exceptional dining experience. The menu features Scottish salmon poached in a sauce of tomatoes, capers, onions, and white wine, as well as chicken breast stuffed with veal, spinach, and cheeses. Their wine list is also highly acclaimed.
Leila Restaurant
For an authentic Middle Eastern experience, Leila Restaurant is a top choice. This restaurant combines beautiful belly dancers with the finest Mediterranean cuisine. Standout dishes include tender breast of chicken marinated in fresh garlic and olive oil, half rack of Australian lamb infused with garlic and olive oil, and flame-grilled mahi-mahi filet served with a tangy citrus sesame taratoor sauce.
Okeechobee Steak House
Owned and operated by the Lewis Family since 1947, Okeechobee Steak House is not only the best steak house in Palm Beach County but also the oldest in the state of Florida. The family's exclusive aging process for beef creates a succulent flavor that is unparalleled.
Pipeline Poke
If you are a fan of sushi, you will love Pipeline Poke. Born from a passion for seafood and a dream to serve real, fresh, quality Hawaiian cuisine, this restaurant offers delicious and healthy poke bowls. The menu includes chunks of the freshest tuna or salmon mixed with rice, quinoa, or greens, along with fresh fruits and vegetables and homemade dressings.
Sassafras
Sassafras is known for its innovative Southern cuisine and convivial atmosphere. Since opening in 2019, it has quickly made a name for itself. The restaurant's cocktails are superb, and the waitstaff is as engaging as the food. Standouts include their $8 Happy Hour burger, pink shrimp with grits, and baby back ribs.
Exploring More of West Palm Beach's Culinary Scene
Beyond these top 10 restaurants, West Palm Beach offers a vibrant culinary scene with many other eateries worth exploring. From historic Clematis Street to the waterfront, the city is filled with dining options that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you are in the mood for a casual brunch or an elegant dinner, West Palm Beach has something to offer.