November 7th, 2013
Some coastal resorts like Rehoboth Beach, and all the Delaware Beaches, are now in their Second Season, while others, like Delray Beach, Florida, become a winter’s destination for many you want to escape the colder weather ahead.
Pretty soon these will be every day scenes in Delray Beach, Florida.
Delray Beach is one of those towns in South Florida that is very accessible. Two major airports, are close to this Village by the Sea. Known also as the most small fun town in the U.S., Delray Beach offers its visitors amazing beaches, completely unobstructed, a downtown full of shops and restaurants and plenty of music and entertainment, as well.
Shopping local in these towns mean that you support the local economy. The merchants in Delray Beach and the artists are the heart of the community.
Shop Small is a movement to celebrate small businesses every day and to help communities thrive. Delray Beach invites you to Shop Small throughout the month of November. On Saturday, November 30th is Small Business Saturday. With over 400 small businesses in Downtown Delray Beach, you will have plenty to choose from….the holidays are fast approaching.
Delray Beach is also a town of many festivals….so stay tuned!!
Thursday, 11/7 there is a Grand Opening Celebration for Ginjer Boutique from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. The shop is located at 133 E. Atlantic Ave. Tel. 561-272-1033.
Friday, 11/8 – Free Friday Night Concert from 7:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. at the Outdoor Pavilion at the Delray Center for the Arts at 51 N. Swinton.
Looking for restaurants in Delray Beach? Check http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com/dining.
You can do as much as you want to, or as little….that’s its beauty!!
October 8th, 2013
Uvas Playeras…that’s what they called them in Spanish. I grew up in the Island of Puerto Rico, where Seagrapes were very common. I used to eat them right from the tree, not giving it another thought.
Many years later, as I became a frequent visitor to South Florida, I noticed that the Seagrape plant was used a lot in their landscaping. Seagrapes are highly tolerant of salt and heat. That’s why this plant is also so abundant in the Caribbean.
Depending what month I found myself in South Florida, I always looked for the fruit that might be in season. Something different from what I would find at the Delaware Beaches, where I reside. At times, it might be avocado, mango, or tamarind.
A few weeks ago I was in Delray Beach. It was a time for Seagrapes. They were everywhere. It is a messy tree since the fruit falls off very easily once it is ripe.
The biggest tree I have seen so far was in Delray Beach, and it was full of seagrapes. Check out this photo.
At first the fruit is very green and it does look so pretty on the trees. You have to be patient and wait until the end of summer when the Seagrapes will ripen.
Seagrapes are in the buckwheat family. They protect beaches from coastal winds. In Delray Beach, they also protect the sea turtles.
So, as I was walking early in the morning in Delray, I was prepared, carrying my plastic bag to gather some of these Seagrapes. I have never seen anyone picking them….only me. A few gave me that look, wondering “what the heck is she doing?” You want the Seagrapes to be as dark as possible…a purplish color!! That’s when they will be sweet and tart at the same time.
Seagrapes have a pit that takes almost the whole fruit. They say you can make jam and even wine. But, I will tell you this…I cannot imagine how hard it will be to take that pulp. Not me, I just pop them in my mouth, play around with them, and then….yes, spit them out!! Not very ladylike, but that’s what I do.
Now don’t they look beautiful? I ate them all…so good. Don’t just look at them…eat them!!
Talk to you later…have a good one!!
October 5th, 2013
Delray Beach, Florida, is also known as The Village by The Sea. This town is a destination for many. Some go on vacation, others make it their home during the cold northeast winters. It is so easy to get to; 2 airports are within 30 minutes from Delray. Ft. Lauderdale and Palm Beach International.
When you arrive in Delray Beach, you will see the big Pineapple at the entrance of town….it welcomes Visitors to this Village by the Sea.
What I love the most about Delray is the beach. It is so unobstructed and the water is so clear. You park yourselves on that beach and just relax…
Coralina Village is a complex of a dozen townhouses. It is located a few blocks south from the famous Atlantic Avenue, where all the restaurants, shops, art galleries, and bars are located. You can look and look, but I can tell you that you will not find another complex in Delray with this type of location. Mediterranean style, by the beach, and it does have its own private pool. The southern exposure makes this unit light and airy, with no buildings obstructing its backyard.
 
For Sale: 1024 Coralina, Delray Beach, Florida, 33483. This property is listed with Kelley Lake Johnson of Tauriello & Co., located in the heart of Delray Beach. Her tel. is 561-703-3839. To see the photos and virtual tour, please visit http://www.tauriello.com/new_listings.php. It is a turn-key unit. All furniture is included….even the spices. All you need is your toothbrush and a few personal items.
Living, dining, kitchen, den and 1/2 bath are all on the first floor.
1024 Coralina is unique, because even though all townhouses have 2 car garages, this one only has 1 1/2 garages, due to the fact that the owners made an office out of half of the garage for additional space inside.
Upstairs the laundry room, master bedroom (and bathroom) with tongue and groove ceiling, and 2 guests bedrooms sharing a bathroom.
Each bedroom has its own balcony, as well.
A patio and yard in the back is the perfect spot early in the morning, early in the evening or eating al fresco. And, during March, the gardenia bush is gorgeous.
Since the beach is only a block away, it is the ideal setting for an early walk or jog. You can exercise and walk all morning long, right by the beach on A1A.
It has been said that the mark of a Great real estate agent isn’t how Many houses he or she shows you, it’s how Few!! The realtor who will find the right house for you is the agent who will listen to you…what you need, and what you would want to spend. He or she will also know what you’ve got your heart set on and what will, actually, make you crazy….so, what did you say you were looking for?
Talk to you later…
September 22nd, 2013
If you are planning a vacation to Delray Beach, Florida, and choose to stay at the Seagate Hotel on Atlantic Avenue, you will be able to have privileges at the Seagate Beach Club, located at 401 South Ocean Blvd. For many years the Seagate Beach Club was all members, but since the opening of the Seagate Hotel, guests can sit on its private beach, and enjoy the many amenities the club has to offer.
Enjoying an evening at the Seagate with friends, Michael and Jeff, was special on Friday evening. Catching up with them after not seeing them for some time. Since it is a private club, I extended the patrons the opportunity to dine in complete privacy, so therefore, only a few photos of the evening you will see.
A room with a view is the place to be if you are seated on the balcony.
The bread was excellent!! And what followed were salads, beets, calamari, several types of beef and a pork ragu with gnocchi….chocolate cake, ice cream and key lime pie! Yum!
And, then, some ventured outdoors to catch one of the movies under the moonlight!!
Talk to you later….have a good one!
September 21st, 2013
Usually the action is on Atlantic Ave., but early in the morning that was not the case. Too quiet!! Everyone was on the beach, as another beautiful day in the Village by the Sea was developing.
The full moon was still there, but the sun was definitely out. A little less humid than in the past couple of days. One person said “Fall is here”, I was already perspiring…maybe 85 degrees?
The early risers were getting ready for a little surf-fishing.
The others were exercising on the beach.
Me? I was just taking a walk and taking the beach in…the palm trees, the ocean breezes, and the salty air.
Groups were pouring into the beach….it was Beach Clean-Up in Delray Beach with Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful. For more info. visit http://www.keeppbcbeautiful.org.
They had trash bags, gloves, and a list of things to find. It was going to be a fun day on the beach for everyone.
Delray Beach is pretty big and there is room for everyone. The teams were assembling and games of volleyball were getting underway.
Having breakfast in one of the restaurants that are right on A1A is a favorite of many in the a.m.
Wow, the seagrapes are plentyful this year…next post.
Talk to you later.
September 19th, 2013
Just as you find plenty of restaurants and art galleries in Delray Beach, Florida, you will also find many boutiques and small specialty shops, as well. From jewelry and accessories to homegoods, Delray Beach offers visitors a must do shopping experience.
So, as I waited for my friend, Danika and her constant companion, Prince Pierre, I strolled Atlantic Avenue. What got my attention was the handbag on the window and the necklace. Then I stepped in and met Arnona Cohen, who is the Manager at Unique Boutique.
Unique Boutique is located at 204 East Atlantic Avenue in Downtown Delray. Tel. 561-272-6654. The store is owned by Kaaren Beaton, who also owns stores in Naples and Cape Cod.
 
The shop has just enough…high end jewelry, handbags, shoes, and accessories.
Arnona and I were just shooting the breeze; nothing in particular. A little of her life, my life; pretty much a friendly chat.
The shops in Delray Beach stay open at night. Stroll them before or after dinner to pick up a little something from your trip to The Village by The Sea.
Check out the sale corner, as well.
Have a Good One!!
September 18th, 2013
The evening was balmy to say the least, and humid, and rainy….South Florida!! I kept hearing that they had quite a summer regarding the weather. Hey, welcome to the club. It seems everyone has.
Delray Beach is a vacation and dining destination. Up and down Atlantic Ave., and its side streets, you will find restaurants catering to discriminating palates.
Our choice on Wednesday evening was 32 East, located at 32 E. Atlantic Ave., Tel. 561-276-7868. Website? http://www.32east.com.
32 East has been part of the restaurant scene in Delray Beach since 1996. It is very popular, so if you are vacationing in Delray this winter, make sure you call for reservations.
She and I had never met but have connected here or there on Facebook. Face to face meeting tonight; I will have to say I am glad we did finally meet and it was way overdue. Along came Prince Pierre, with Danika.
 
Danika writes about Delray Beach. So, check her out at http://www.i-love-delray-beach.com, because there is a lot to learn about this Village by the Sea.
Part of the fun of eating in Delray Beach is that you can dine outdoors most of the time. We did so tonight since our dining 4-legged companion, Prince Pierre, could not, certainly, eat inside.
After much chatting, and Michael, our server, refilling our glasses, we decided to make our choices.
A Bibb Lettuce Salad with cucumber, celery, cilantro, scallions, sesame, pine nuts, and gala apple (my favorite apple), in Thai Chile Vinaigrette. Good, refreshing on such a steamy night in Delray.
Michael told us that the swordfish was so fresh, it would have been his choice. I was not sure…swordfish… not my favorite. But, following his direction I was totally impressed.
Saute of Atlantic Swordfish on wood roasted root veggies, fingerling potatoes, and red endive with butternut squash puree and Madeira wine, veal jus. The swordfish was moist and the veggies were a great addition; full of flavor.
The Oven Roasted B & E Chicken Breast, came out looking beautiful and full of color, accompanied with Vidalia onions and organic carrots on broccoli rabe, saute with huckleberry vinegar pan sauce. I believe the B & E stands for Bell & Evans. Their chickens are raised without antibiotics or growth hormones throughout their entire life.
A side order of Potato Puree….so good. But, to me it seemed more like a strata. I think, a winner!
No dessert was necessary, even though Michael tried….tempting, that’s for sure.
Talk to you later..a toast to new friends!!
June 20th, 2013
When visiting Delray Beach, Florida, usually a highlight of the trip is revisiting the restaurants that have become favorites and checking out the new ones, as well. Delray Beach is a dining, shopping and vacation destination. So, easy to get to, with 2 airports within half hour from the town.
If I were to tell you that it is the “off season” in Delray maybe there might be some truth to it. It is summer in Florida and many have headed north. But, don’t get me wrong, you might find it easier to find parking and maybe might be able to get into the restaurants without waiting too long, but all you have to do is hit Atlantic Avenue, Pineapple Grove, A1A in the early evening and you will see residents and visitors enjoying the warm weather, dining al fresco, and sipping their favorite drinks.
Some of the restaurants are offering summer menus, and The Office in Delray Beach is offering an Inventive Summer Comfort Menu with 2 and 3-course prix fixe options for lunch and dinner, Sunday through Thursday, until the end of September, 2013.
The Office opened in Delray, I believe, almost 5 years ago, by restauranteur and entrepeneur, John Rosatti. It has the perfect location, a corner on trendy and busy Atlantic Avenue…201 East Atlantic Avenue. Tel. 561-276-3600. Website? http://www.theofficedelray.com.
Executive Chef Joseph “Joe” Coletto is providing diners with the option of choosing 2 courses for $25 (either an appetizer and an entree, or an entree and a dessert), or 3 courses for $35 (one appetizer, one entree, and one dessert). This menu is available every week from Sunday through Thursday until the end of September, 2013. Tax and gratuity are not included.
Outdoor dining, al fresco, at sidewalk…with these tables you will not miss any of the happenings on the Avenue.
The setting is reminiscent of a luxurious home office, for lunch and dinner, daily.
For both Summer Comfort Prix Fixe Menus, the appetizer choices are: Quesadilla, Deviled Eggs which are the best, Fried Pickles, Grown-Up Tater Tots, House-Smoked Fish Nachos, Warm Baked Pretzel Bread, Side Salad – House or Caesar, BBQ Chinese Chicken Wings, Chicken Shu-Mai Duplings, and Sweet Potato Chips.
 
Entree choices are: Veggie Burger, Office Burger, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, Grilled Marinated Hanger Steak, Baby Back Ribs, Pan-Roasted Free Bird Chicken, Simply Grilled Salmon, Coconut Curry PEI Mussels, Dark English Ale-Battered Fish, and Boneless Country Fried Chicken.
   
Dessert choices are: Apple Crumble, Mini Ice Cream Sandwiches, Maple-and Bacon Glazed Donuts, Golden Raisin and Chocolate Bread Pudding, and Blueberry Creme Brulee.
Specialty cocktails like The Red Stapler made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Prickly Pear, Agave Nectar, and lemon juice are among the many drinks found at The Office. The Office also serves 39 craft beers on draft, including Bell’s Two Hearted, IPA, the number one ranked IPA in the U.S., along with offerings from Cigar City, Oskar Blues, and our very own Dogfish from Delaware!!
The designed wine list, with 25 wines by the glass and 90 wines by the bottle, from California, Italy, New Zealand, Argentina and Australia.
Happy Hour is from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. and it features 50% off of all drinks, wines by the glass, bottle and draft beer, and cocktails, at both the indoor and outdoor bars. The Happy Hour offers a pre-selected Happy Hour bar menu, as well.
The Late Night Happy Hour is from 10 p.m. until closing, featuring 50% off of all drinks at both bars, indoor and outdoor.
Hope you have a great time in Delray!! Talk to you later.
 
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