Welcome to the culinary underbelly of Boca Raton and
Jupiter, where the food is as vibrant as the South Florida sun. At Active
Life Properties, we’re not just about finding you a luxury home; we’re
about helping you live the lifestyle that comes with it. That means uncovering
the hidden gem restaurants that locals cherish—those small, often family-run
spots that deliver exceptional food, warm service, and a true sense of
community. Forget the chains and tourist traps; here’s your guide to the
underrated dining spots in Boca Raton, Jupiter, and nearby Palm Beach that will
make your taste buds sing and support local businesses in the process.
Boca Raton: Where Flavor Meets Charm
Boca Raton’s dining scene is a mix of glitz and grit, but
it’s the lesser-known spots that steal the show. These restaurants may not have
the flashiest signs, but they’re packed with heart and soul.
TwentyTwenty Grille
- Location:
141 Via Naranjas, Boca Raton, FL 33432
- Cuisine:
New American
- Why
It’s a Gem: Tucked away in the charming Royal Palm Place, TwentyTwenty
Grille is a cozy, chef-driven spot run by husband-and-wife duo Chef Ron
Weisheit and Carol Weisheit. With only 20 seats inside and a romantic
patio, this intimate eatery feels like a secret you’re let in on. The menu
is a creative showcase of local, sustainable ingredients, with dishes like
jumbo lump crab cakes and Silver Oak-brined New Zealand lamb rack that are
almost too beautiful to eat. Locals rave about the ever-changing seasonal
menu and the personal touch of the owners, who are always on hand to
ensure every bite is perfection. It’s fine dining without the pretension,
perfect for a date night or a quiet evening with friends.
Long Story Short Café
- Location:
132 NE Second St., Boca Raton, FL 33432
- Cuisine:
Coffee Shop/Healthy Bites
- Why
It’s a Gem: This fast-paced, modern coffee bar is a haven for
health-conscious diners who don’t want to sacrifice flavor. Run by a
welcoming family team, Long Story Short Café serves up smoothies, lattes,
and light bites that are as delicious as they are wholesome. Try the Cry
Me a Turkey sandwich with honey-roasted turkey, arugula, and a decadent
drizzle of truffle oil. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a quick
lunch or linger with a coffee, soaking in the laid-back vibe. Locals love
it for its unassuming charm and commitment to fresh ingredients, making it
a go-to for workday lunches or beach-day pick-me-ups.
Trattoria Romana
- Location:
499 E Palmetto Park Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33432
- Cuisine:
Italian
- Why
It’s a Gem: Established in 1993 by chef/owner Arturo Gismondi,
Trattoria Romana brings old-world Italian charm to Boca Raton. This
family-run gem is known for its authentic dishes made with the freshest
ingredients, like lobster tails in garlic and oil or jumbo shrimp
saltimbocca. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a location near the
Intracoastal Waterway that adds a touch of romance. Locals swear by the
extensive wine list and the personal service, which makes you feel like
you’re dining at an Italian nonna’s house. It’s a neighborhood favorite
that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Jupiter: Coastal Vibes and Culinary Delights
Jupiter’s dining scene is as laid-back as its beaches, but
don’t let the casual vibe fool you—these hidden gems pack a punch with bold
flavors and local love.
The Parisian Restaurant & Wine Bar
- Location:
201 N US Highway 1, Jupiter, FL 33477
- Cuisine:
French
- Why
It’s a Gem: Tucked into a Jupiter shopping center, this unassuming
French brasserie is a slice of Paris in South Florida. Owned and operated
by a native Parisian, The Parisian serves modern French cuisine with a
focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Start with the tarte flambée, a
puff pastry topped with caramelized onions, lardons, and crème fraîche,
then dive into the mussels marinière or steak tartare. The dessert crepes
are a must. Locals adore the intimate atmosphere and the owner’s warm
hospitality, which make every visit feel like a mini-vacation to France.
It’s a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch with
friends.
Guanabanas
- Location:
960 N Hwy A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477
- Cuisine:
Caribbean-Inspired Seafood
- Why
It’s a Gem: Nestled on the Intracoastal Waterway, Guanabanas feels
like a secret jungle retreat with its palm-fringed patios and illuminated waterfalls.
This family-owned spot is a local legend for its Caribbean-inspired menu,
featuring dishes like macadamia coconut fresh catch and tequila lime
Atlantic shrimp. The tropical drinks are a hit, especially after a day on
the water. The vibe is pure Jupiter—laid-back, welcoming, and full of
character. Locals flock here for the happy hour and live music, making it
a great spot to soak in the community spirit while supporting a small
business that’s been a staple for years.
Palm Beach: Timeless Elegance, Local Flavor
Just a short drive from Boca Raton and Jupiter, Palm Beach
offers a few hidden gems that combine understated luxury with local charm.
Buccan
- Location:
350 S County Rd, Palm Beach, FL 33480
- Cuisine:
Modern American
- Why
It’s a Gem: Buccan is a modern American bistro that’s a favorite among
Palm Beach locals for its innovative small plates and vibrant atmosphere.
Chef Clay Conley’s menu features dishes like tuna crisps, short rib
empanadas, and house-made pastas that are perfect for sharing. The
contemporary setting and creative cuisine make it a standout, but it’s the
warm, unpretentious service that keeps locals coming back. Tucked away on
South County Road, Buccan feels like a secret shared among friends, ideal
for a chic yet relaxed dining experience.
Why Support Local Gems?
These hidden gem restaurants aren’t just about great
food—they’re about community. Many are family-run, with owners who pour their
hearts into every dish and every guest interaction. By dining at these spots,
you’re supporting small businesses that keep Boca Raton, Jupiter, and Palm
Beach unique. Unlike chain restaurants, these eateries source local
ingredients, hire local staff, and create a sense of place that you can’t find
anywhere else. Plus, they offer a more personal experience, from the chef who
knows your name to the server who remembers your favorite wine.
Tips for Discovering More Hidden Gems
- Ask
Locals: Chat with neighbors or your Active Life Properties real estate
agent for the latest insider tips on where to eat.
- Explore
Off the Main Drag: Many of the best spots are tucked away in shopping
centers or side streets, like The Parisian in Jupiter or TwentyTwenty
Grille in Boca Raton.
- Check
Social Media: Follow local foodies on Instagram or join Reddit threads
like r/BocaRaton for real-time recommendations from the community.
- Visit
During Off-Hours: These small spots can fill up fast, so try lunch or
early dinner to snag a table and enjoy a quieter vibe.
Live the Luxury Lifestyle with Active Life Properties
At Active Life Properties, we believe luxury living
is about more than a beautiful home—it’s about the experiences that make life
special. From savoring a meal at a hidden gem restaurant to exploring the
vibrant communities of Boca Raton, Jupiter, and Palm Beach, we’re here to help
you discover the best of South Florida. Ready to find your dream home and start
living the Active Life? Contact us today to explore our exclusive listings and
let us guide you to the lifestyle you deserve.
Disclaimer: Menus and hours are subject to change. We
recommend calling ahead to confirm reservations and availability.