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!!
February 14th, 2013
If you are visiting Delray Beach, Florida this week-end, you are in for a treat when the 16th Annual Chili Cook-Off will be taking place at Old School Square. It is sponsored by the Delray GreenMarket. Visit http://www.delraycra.org.
It is a free event. Saturday, 2/16 from 10 a.m.until 12:30 p.m. Watch the bravest cooks in town battle over bragging rights for the best traditional, new age, and vegetarian chili recipes. Sample each batch and help choose the People’s Choice winner!! Trophies will be awarded.
Listen to Heidi and The El Cat’s sing the blues!!
After reading 50 Shades of Grey…hmmmm, a friend gave me Fifty Shades of Chicken, a parody in a cookbook. Actually, the recipes are great. So, I decided to tackle the Chicken Chili. Having a gluten allergy in my household I changed the recipe a bit to make it gluten free.
Remember to make it your own. Want it more spicy? You know what to do, right?
Chicken Chili
3 tablespoons extra virgin-olive oil
1 1/2 lbs. ground chicken, preferably a mixture of dark and white meat. Mine was all white.
1/2 tablespoon of Kosher salt (I really don’t use salt, but it was in the recipe.)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 onion, chopped
1/2 green pepper chopped
1 jalapeno chile pepper (If you think it will be too hot, then just use some Tabasco instead.)
2 tablespoons chili powder (If you want to use more, you know what to do.)
1 28 ounce can whole peeled tomatoes
1 bottle dark beer (I got gluten free beer.)
1 15 ounce can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed (If you want more beans….)
1 cup of chicken broth.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, or to taste
Sour cream, for garnish (I bought lite sour cream.)
Grated cheese, for garnish (Your preference.)
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown for about 7 minutes or so. Add salt and pepper. Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan and then stir in the tomato paste. Cook, stirring, until the paste is fragrant; about 2 minutes. Stir in the onions, bell, pepper, garlic, and jalapeno. Cook until the veggies are golden; about 10 minutes.
Stir in the chili powder, adjust salt content. Cook for a few minutes more.
Add the tomatoes. Stir for a minute.
Then, add the beer, beans. and the cup of chicken broth. The gluten free beer I used is the one of the left….a Spanish beer. Add cilantro and lime juice.
Ladle the chili into bowls. Serve topped with sour cream and shredded cheese. Enjoy!!
Note: Please remember to make sure your ingredients are gluten free if you are following the allergy diet. Grate the cheese yourself, as well.
This recipe will serve 4 hungry people!! Easily doubled.
February 5th, 2013
 The Intracoastal, looking north. Discovering Delray Beach from a different point of view. The sightseeing cruises going north or south on the Intracoastal are a relaxing way to spend a few hours. Lady Atlantic and Lady Delray are the yachts at your service.
 The Intracoastal, looking South. Tired of the beach and shopping? Or maybe too much bonding and you want to take off by yourself.
This week’s cruises are:
Daily 2-Hour Narrated Sightseeing Cruises at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. $23 for adults, $20 for children ages 2 through 12, and Seniors 62+. Casual dining is available on board, as well as a full bar.
Thursday, 2/7 – Steel Drum Cruise from 6 to 8 p.m. $20/person.
Friday, 2/8 – Double Entree Buffet Dinner Cruise from 6 to 8 p.m. $50/person. Toss Garden Salad, Oven Roated Prime Rib of Beef with Au Jus, Vegetable Lasagna, Steamed Vegetable Medley, Red Bliss Mashed Potatoes, Dinner Rolls & Butter, Chef’s Choice of Dessert, Coffee and Tea.
Sunday, 2/10 – Sunday Brunch Cruise from 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. $39/person. Scramble Eggs, Vegetable Lasagna, Oven Roasted Turkey Breast with Gravy, Crusty Rolls and Cranberry Mayo, Tossed Garden Salad, Breakfast Sausage Links, Home Fried Potatoes with sauteed onions and peppers, French Toast with Maple Syrup, sliced fruit.
All cruises depart from 801 E. Atlantic Avenue. Please call 561-243-0686 to reserve your space. More info? Check http://www.delrayyachtcruises.com.
Have fun!!
February 5th, 2013
It has been a gorgeous morning in Delray Beach. Cooler temperatures in the a.m. with rising ones in the p.m. I think it is perfect. Well, wait a minute, I think some of the local residents are cold. I have seen my share of UGG boots these past few days. What? Really, it is true.
The sun rises around 7:02 or so in the morning so I took of for the beach. It was so quiet. Just a few others taking pictures.
I think the beach was ready; chairs out, volleyball nets were up, the beach sports rental opens early.
The sea gull going on a scavenger’s hunt, just like in Rehoboth Beach. Delray Beach reminds me so much of the coastal towns at the Delaware Beaches. I think that’s why I fell in love with it. But I do have to thank Marilyn, my friend’s mother, for pointing it out to me about 10 years ago.
On A1A there was no traffic. Plenty of sidewalk lining the beach for jogging and power walking.
The smell of garlic will be permeating throughout Atlantic Avenue this coming week-end. Get ready because it is the 14th Annual Delray Beach Garlic Festival. The event is dedicated to exploring the many health and culinary possibilities of garlic, which there are many.
Garlic Ice Cream? Or, Garlic Fest Crab Cakes….those will some of the appearances at the festival.
This is also a fundraising event for the non-profit organization, Delray Beach Arts, Inc. It is for the local non-profit organizations serving education and arts for youth. More info? Please visit http://www.dbgarlic.com. Or, you can also call 561-279-0907.
The Garlic Fest will take place on the grounds of the Old School Square, located at 51 N. Swinton Avenue, right at Atlantic Ave.
This is also called the Delray Beach Center for The Arts at Old School Square. The historic preservation of this “campus” is something the Delray residents are proud of.
The Cornell Museum dates to 1913. There are exhibits, concerts, and theater. While you are in Delray, check out the schedule of events by visiting http://www.delraybeachcenterforthearts.org.
At the festival there will be plenty of entertainment at the Old School Square Stage.
Garlic Fest Hours:
Friday, 2/8 from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m.
Saturday, 2/9 from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m.
Sunday, 2/10 from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Have a great time!!
February 4th, 2013
Visiting Delray Beach? Watch out because while visiting this Village by The Sea….well, you might want to stick around.
Making the visit for guests a little more enjoyable is something Delray is accomplishing in a big way.
WiFi is free to the public on East Atlantic Avenue. Enjoy!!
Delray Beach also has free shuttle service called the Downtown Roundabout, providing park and ride transportation throughout Downtown Delray Beach. There are a few routes available.
One route is available 6:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. It originates at the Tri Rail Station running north on Congress Avenue to West Atlantic Avenue, continuing east on Atlantic Avenue to the Marriott Hotel on the Beach at Ocean Blvd. (A1A).
From the beach, the shuttle bus returns to the Tri Rail Station traveling west on Atlantic Ave. to Congress Ave. and running south on Congress.
Another Rt. is a split route. Originating also at the Tri Rail Station from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The other route originates at the Delray Beach Public Library on Atlantic Ave. from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Week-end service is Noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Please remember that only service dogs are allowed on the shuttle.
More info? Call 561-243-7322, 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call after these hours to Delray Beach Action Center at 561-243-7012 or the Shuttle Dispatch Center at 954-791-2505.
You can also visit http://www.mydelraybeach.com/news/2012/03/07/downtown-roundabout. In this site you can also find info. on where to park in Downtown Delray Beach.
The Beach!!
At the center of it all, is the beach in Delray. This beach is unobstructed; you can sit there all day long. Bring your own chairs, or rent the lounges.
At the end of the day it does look quiet, but not so during the South Florida hot days.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later.
February 3rd, 2013
Bar None, the Bru’s Room in Delray Beach has award winning wings. They are grilled, not greasy and taste delicious. And, this is the week-end!! As I was checking Atlantic Avenue I noticed that Bru’s Room was packing them in. They have over 40 tvs.
With so many Ravens’ fans in Delray Beach…it will be very crowded.
Locations? Besides the Delray Beach location at 35 NE 2nd Ave., there are plenty more throughout South Florida. Please visit http://www.brusroom.com.
The Delray Beach location is comfortable and you can have the choice to have a seat outdoors (my favorite), or inside. Their telephone number in case you want to order wings is 561-276-3663.
Please order the wings grilled. My absolute favorites are the Sweet ‘N’ Tangy.
When with my family, we always order the Triple Threat…BBQ, Sweet ‘N’ Tangy, Hot, grilled with minced garlic.
Note: Their wings are gluten free. Make sure you mention it to your server.
Go Ravens!!
January 15th, 2013
Delray Beach has maintained its charmed through history. The area is known for its rich soil. Vegetables and fruits were grown in abundance. Its large colony of artists call Delray home. And…its festivals are famous throughout Florida, as well.
It is a very walkable town. Historic preservation in this town is taken seriously. The cottages that were retreats in simpler days are for the most part, still standing.
At this time of the year, when it is rainy and cold in the northeast the snowflakes and the snowbirds head south for some warmth, rest, and relaxation.
When I mention Delray Beach to others, the beach, restaurants, bars, shops and music venues come to mind.
The beach is unobstructed; you can sit there all they long. The water? Well, see for yourselves.
Too hot to sit on the beach? Tired of shopping and eating? I’ll bet!!
How about a little cruise on the intracoastal? You can catch these cruises right on Atlantic Avenue by the draw bridge, on board the Lady Delray and Lady Atlantic. It is Delray Yatch Cruises located at 801 E. Atlantic Avenue. Tel. 561-243-0686. Website? http://www.delraybeachcruises.com.
You can take 2 hour cruises northbound or southbound on the intracoastal. They also have dinner cruises, as well. On their website you can check all that info., including their on-board menu.
It something different to do, looking at Delray Beach from another point of observation.
Sandoway House Nature Center is located 142 South Ocean Blvd. in Delray Beach. It is right on A1A and you cannot miss it. If you are on Atlantic Ave., go east and turn right on the corner of Atlantic Ave. and A1A. It will be about 2 blocks on the right. Tel. 561-274-7263. Website? http://www.sandowayhouse.org.
Events, exhibits and programs are offered all the time. Please check the website if you are visiting town.
Coral Reef Pool & Daily Shark Feedings at the Sandoway House occur on Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. On Sunday the feeding is at 1:30 p.m. Admission is $4 for 3 years of age and older.
The Ivonne S. Templeton Shell Gallery is home to the Albert & Ann Becker Shell Collection. It is the largest in South Florida with over 10,000 “museum quality shells”.
And, coming up is Nature Photography 101 Series. 6 consecutive Saturday mornings. The series is called An Eye for Nature: A Photographic Winter on The Coast. More info? It is all on their website.
Wakodahatchee – It means “created waters”. West of Atlantic Avenue 50 acres have been transformed into a wetlands ecosystem. Turtles, frogs, alligators and birds call this preserve, home. Location? 13026 Jog Rd. Go west on Atlantic, crossing over I-95. Turn right on Jog Rd. Cross over Lake Ida intersection. It will be on the right hand side; about 1/4 mile. The sign is not big.
It is an elevated boardwalk…about 3/4 of a mile. You can stroll, walk, sit and watch the birds come to rest for the evening. It opens early in the a.m. until dusk. More info? Check http://www.pbcgov.com/waterutilities/wakodahatchee/location.htm.
Green Cay Nature Preserve is another acreage transformed into a wetlands ecosystem. The boardwalk is larger than the one at Wakodahatchee; 1.5 miles long. It is also open from sunrise to sunset. Location? 12800 Hagen Ranch Rd. This is considered suburban Boyton Beach, between Boyton Beach Blv. and Atlantic Avenue. More info? Please visit http://www.pbcgov.com/waterutilities/waterfacts/green_cay.htm.
It is relaxing way to start or end the day…pretty relaxing.
The Morikami Gardens are located 4000 Morikami Park Rd., Delray Beach, FL 33446. Tel. 561-495-0233. Website? http://www.morikami.org.
The gardens are beautiful and tranquil. The Cornell Cafe offers a Pan-Asian inspired menu. You can sit outdoors on the terrace or indoors in air condition.
The Morikami Gardens hold events, classes and festivals throughout the year. Best to check the calendar of events on the website.
Coming up there is a beginner’s bonsai class: The Art of Bonsai. It will take place on 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10 and 2/17, from 9 a.m. until Noon. It will be held at the Oki Education Center Deck. Instructor? Vladimir Foursa. $91 for non members and $81 for members, plus $35 of materials payable to the instructor. You will receive a manual, pruning tool, one beginner’s bonsai tree, bonsai pot, and use of wire and bonsai soil.
Advance registration is required, and you can do so on-line.
Loxahatchee Everglades Tours – Wild Lyle is a great tour guide. He has been doing these tours for years. The tours depart on the hour, starting at 10 a.m. and with the last one starting at 4 p.m. You will see the animals in their natural habitat and you will be gliding over a river of grass. Location? 15490 Loxahatchee Rd., Parkland, FL 33076. Tel. 561-482-6107. They open at 9 a.m. Website? http://www.evergladesairboattours.com.
If you are departing from Delray Beach, just take I-95 South to Hillsboro Blvd. (west exit). Go all the way to the end and take a left on Loxahatchee Rd. Follow the road to the end.
The best time to take these tours is on a hot and sunny day. It seems the animals come out to get warm. If you would like to check the weather, please call 561-482-8026.
Please note that these tours are not for children 3 years of age and younger. Also, please note that there is a 25% discount coupon on the website. You can print it and bring it in.
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center – With a Mission “To increase public awareness of coastal and marine ecosystems through research, education, and conservation”. It is located at 1801 North Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33432. It is very easy to find. If you are traveling on A1A from Delray Beach, go south and cross Spanish River intersection. The Nature Center will be on your right; about 1/4 mile.
You will find Children’s Programs, Family Programs, Adult Programs, Events, Group Tours and Field Trips and School Programs. You can check the schedule of events by visiting http://www.gumbolimbo.org. Tel. 561-544-8615.
Palm Beach Pack & Paddle Club is in West Palm Beach…This is “The eating club with a camping, canoeing, kayaking, bicycling, backpacking, and hiking disorder”. They encourage and support conservation, and protection of the natural environment.
It is full of activities year-round. It is a club but non-members may participate in up to 2 trips before becoming members. More info? Please visit http://www.clubkayak.com/pandp/.
Hey, have a great time!! Talk to you later….
June 23rd, 2012
Turning out to be one of my favorite restaurants in Delray Beach…. Brule Bistro, located at 200 NE 2nd Avenue. Tel. 561-274-2046. Website? www.brulebistro.com.
I remember when Pineapple Grove was just starting out. People did talk back then that it would be an extension of Atlantic Avenue. To some extent, it is. But, it has much more. It has a unique flavor. Lots of little restaurants, boutiques, apartments, gyms, even postal service. Most importantly, it is an artist’s colony, as well. So, when you live in Pineapple Grove, everything is accessible; Atlantic Ave., just a stroll away.
I love the way Brule Bistro has evolved. Love what they have done with the interior of the Bistro. I was told that in July they will be closing for a week; more remodeling, I believe in the kitchen area.
The other night when we stopped for a bite to eat, the restaurant was comfortably crowded. I usually sit outside but being that it was a little too warm and it looked like rain was on the way, we played it safe, and inside we sat. I am glad we did because it was so nice inside.
Brule Bistro makes everything in-house. It opens early and closes late.
It is a great spot for lunch. Sit under their umbrellas and enjoy the balmy South Florida weather.
Try their Gazpacho with Yogurt Creme. It is so good and so refreshing. Even though their menu changes all the time; this popular soup is always on their menu.
As we sat at our table, our waiter brought homemade bread with roasted pepper mousse.
A Grilled Avocado with Roasted Tomato Salsa, sprinkled with Sea Salt and Extra Virgin Olive Oil was ordered as an appetizer.
A Citrus Ceviche Martini with Bay scallops, Laughing Bird Shrimp, Sake and Avocado, was another appetizer ordered. Almost did not get the picture. My guest was too fast.
The Duck Confit Eggroll, House Brined and served with a Mango Mustard Sauce was well received.
I had to order the Braised Local Rabbit Fricassee with Ricotta Gnudi, Oyster Mushrooms and Vegetable Fricassee. It brought memories from when my grandmother used to make it in Puerto Rico. Very good.
For dessert, a decadent and Flourless Chocolate Dome. Dense and rich.
Delray Beach has so many restaurants; it is so nice to find one so comfortable with good food, nice atmosphere, and most of all, attentive service, and reasonable prices.
Until next time, Delray…have a good one!!
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