3 Best Restaurants in Delray Beach, Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast

Sustainable seafood is the focus at this airy "sea-to-table" spot that dabbles in sushi rolls, grilled fish, and creative American cuisine. The namesake lionfish (an invasive species that wreaks havoc on the local marine ecosystem) shows up in a ceviche bathed in avocado, key lime, and coconut or can be ordered whole and grilled with lemons, capers, and charred greens. A full sushi menu along with larger mains of lamb chops, roasted chicken, and a grass-fed beef burger round out the eclectic menu. The craft cocktails are best enjoyed at the daily weekday happy hour from 4 to 6 pm and from 5 to 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

The historic Sundy House, a 1902-built Victorian home with meandering gardens, ponds, and charming gazebo seating, is home to chef James Strine's “New Florida cuisine,” which essentially comprises Caribbean-, Cuban-, and Latin-inspired dishes. The cocktails are refreshing, the lush outdoor setting is downright magical, and the gourmet comfort food has a creative streak. Dishes include fish tacos, poutine, popcorn shrimp, and baked cannelloni stuffed with spinach and Brie. The legendary Sunday brunch, served from 10 am to 5 pm, is a seated buffet of brunch classics that pair with bottomless mimosas or sangria.

Upstairs from the legendary Boston's on the Beach, you'll find its fancier annex, 50 Ocean. In contrast to the no-frills sports bar on the ground floor, 50 Ocean is a more refined restaurant featuring dishes with a large percentage of locally sourced ingredients. The views from above are spectacular, and the setting is casually elegant, with an outdoor veranda and notable quartz bar. If it feels too fancy upstairs, just head back downstairs for some decent bar fare that includes New England clam chowder, several lobster dishes, and fresh fish.