The 10 Best Restaurants in Delray Beach for Every Occasion

Delray Beach is a charming coastal town in South Florida known for its vibrant downtown area, beautiful beaches, and fantastic culinary scene. From upscale seafood eateries to cozy cafes, Delray Beach offers a diverse array of dining options to satisfy any craving.

Here is a guide to the 10 best restaurants that no visitor should miss when in Delray Beach:

Lemongrass Asian Bistro – Trendy Pan-Asian Cuisine

Lemongrass Asian Bistro located near the popular Delray Marketplace is a contemporary and stylish restaurant serving stellar Asian fare. With its sleek decor and lively ambiance, it is a favorite gathering spot.

Lemongrass is renowned for its fragrant and flavorful curries, tender grilled meats, and variety of steamed and fried dumplings. Their soft and pillowy steamed bao buns filled with savory fillings like hoisin pork belly are must-tries. The Thai noodle dishes burst with authentic flavors and come in options like pad thai, pad see ew, and drunken noodles.

Some recommended dishes include the rainbow sushi rolls, wok-seared pad thai, and crispy edamame starters. Lemongrass is perfect for hanging out with friends over drinks or enjoying a romantic date night.

Burt & Max’s – Laid-back American Bar and Grille

For delicious American classics in a casual and friendly setting, head to Burt & Max’s situated within the popular Delray Marketplace. This lively bar and grille crafts satisfying sandwiches, juicy burgers, and tender grilled steaks.

Their selection of half-pound burgers are expertly cooked and come in creative options like the guacamole bacon cheeseburger topped with crispy onion rings. Their grilled steak entrees like the New York strip are full of rich, beefy flavor. Baked mac and cheese, wings, and nachos are some popular starters.

Burt & Max’s is ideal for watching sports games with friends or enjoying leisurely weekend brunches. It’s laid-back vibe also makes it suitable for family dinners.

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – Elevated Seafood

Regarded as one of the finest seafood restaurants in downtown Delray Beach, Lionfish impresses diners with its sophisticated ambiance and stellar cuisine. The menu bursts with diversity, from sushi and crudos to composed seafood plates.

Highly recommended dishes include the tempura fried lobster rolls, tender octopus skewers glazed in lemon and chili, and spicy tuna hand rolls. Well-crafted cocktails like their cucumber jalapeño margarita pair perfectly with the boldly flavored seafood.

Lionfish is the ultimate choice for celebrating special occasions or enjoying progressive seafood in a refined yet lively setting.

El Camino – Mexican Fare with Twists

Offering a modern take on Mexican cuisine, El Camino’s dishes burst with vibrant flavors. Their interior has an urban edge with exposed brick walls and reclaimed wood accents. The outdoor dining area strung with lights is an atmospheric spot for drinks and sharing plates.

Guests love starters like the jumbo shrimp ceviche and tender chicken flautas. Heartier plates like the carnitas burrito and tequila-lime fish tacos satisfy. Their extensive cocktail list offers unique margarita flavors and Mexican favorites like Palomas.

El Camino is perfect for big groups sharing small plates or couples enjoying craft cocktails in a lively ambiance.

City Oyster & Sushi Bar – Vibrant Downtown Gem

City Oyster & Sushi Bar is hailed as one of the best restaurants in downtown Delray Beach thanks to its stellar seafood and lively ambiance. Centrally located, it’s surrounded by boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

Their extensive raw bar serves up ultra-fresh oysters, clams, crab legs while their talented sushi chefs craft creative sushi rolls. Beyond seafood, they are acclaimed for dishes like miso-glazed Chilean sea bass, fish tacos, and flame-grilled skirt steak.

The buzzing atmosphere with exposed brick walls and oyster shell chandeliers makes City Oyster perfect for date nights or hanging out with friends. It’s an experience not to miss.

Caffe Luna Rosa – Elegant Italian Dining

For an upscale Italian meal with stunning oceanfront views, Caffe Luna Rosa is considered one of the best restaurants in Delray Beach. Managed by Italian chefs, it brings authentic old-world techniques to seafood and homemade pastas.

Their menu shines with expertly cooked veal chops, chicken parmigiana, linguine with clams, and pasta specialties made fresh daily. An extensive Italian wine list perfectly complements the dishes. Caffe Luna Rosa is acclaimed as the best brunch spot in Delray Beach. Guests rave about their fluffy pancakes, French toast topped with macadamia nuts and Nutella, and array of freshly baked pastries.

It’s the ultimate place for enjoying spectacular Atlantic ocean vistas and premium Italian cuisine.

Bear’s Food Shack – Healthy Eatery

For fresh and nutritious breakfast and lunch options in a laid-back surf-themed setting, visit Bear’s Food Shack. This casual eatery has plenty of patio seating overlooking the beachside streetscape.

Their refreshingly tasty smoothies come in unique flavors like green spirulina and purple dragonfruit. Bear’s is also known for their crowd-pleasing acai bowls heaped with wholesome toppings. Health-conscious diners also rave about their kale chicken salad andpoke bowls brimming with fresh fish.

Other recommended dishes include their Rancheros wrap and Bear’s take on avocado toast. It’s the perfect spot for grabbing a light breakfast, casual lunch, or midday snack in Delray Beach.

Dada Restaurant – Eclectic Cuisine in Historic Charm

Tucked inside the historic Cornell Tarrimore House in downtown Delray Beach, Dada offers an eccentric dining experience matched by few. Patrons dine surrounded by revolving modern artwork exhibits.

Their menu reflects global influences with dishes like Korean beef tacos, Moroccan chicken, and Indian-spiced salmon. House favorites include crab cakes with mango slaw, crispy English muffins, and the meatloaf dish named after owner Bea Tarrimore.

The charming courtyard strung with lights is perfect for an intimate dinner for two. Dada is also a hit for family gatherings looking for a unique night out.

Tramonti Restaurant – A Touch of NYC in Delray

Brought to Delray Beach by the same owners of NYC’s Angelo’s of Mulberry Street, Tramonti serves up authentic southern Italian cuisine in a moody and refined setting. Dining options include intimate indoor tables or al fresco in their courtyard.

Pastas are a highlight, especially the seafood-packed lobster ravioli and creamy penne carbonara. Veal piccata is another signature, featuring lemon-doused veal cutlets. An extensive wine list pairs well with the herby rustic dishes.

The candlelit tables make Tramonti a top choice for romantic dinners, while the authentic preparations also make it a great lunch spot.

Deck 84 – Waterfront Dining & Drinks

Perched on the Intracoastal Waterway, Deck 84 enthralls with sweeping views and a laid-back waterfront vibe. Arriving by boat is encouraged, with a large private dock offering easy access.

Their brunch is one of the most popular in Delray Beach, with bottomless drinks and dishes like smoked salmon Benedict. Deck 84 also has amazing happy hour deals on wings, flatbreads, and signature rum buckets.

Guest favorites include the smoky fish dip, tender calamari fries, and Prime beef burger. With live music on weekends and ample al fresco seating, Deck 84 is perfect for making the most of Delray’s coastal setting.

Best Restaurants in Delray Beach: Final Thought

Delray Beach offers some of the best and most eclectic dining experiences in South Florida. From the freshest seafood to international cuisines, these restaurants showcase the top culinary gems in Delray Beach. Locals and visitors alike will find many delightful surprises when exploring this coastal town’s food scene.