Nestled within the sun-kissed city of Boca Raton, Florida, are culinary gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the glitz of its upscale dining spots, lie three ‘hole in the wall’ restaurants, modest in appearance but colossal in flavor. These unassuming havens deliver dishes that not only captivate the palate but also encapsulate the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Dive into this guide and let your taste buds revel in the best-kept secrets of Boca Raton.
Chow Thai
Chow Thai Cuisine in Boca Raton, Florida is a hidden gem tucked away in a nondescript strip mall. Despite its unassuming exterior, the restaurant boasts a beautifully decorated interior, creating an ambiance that’s both quiet and elegant.
Food Highlights:
- Crab Rangoon appetizer –
- Beef Panang (curry) – notable for its excellent spice level customization
- Crunchy chicken – Sautéed chicken breast on rice, garnished with veggies and a delightful brown cashew sauce
- Fried banana with coconut ice cream
- Fried cheesecake with ice cream
- Crispy sweet and sour fish
- Flavorful chicken satay
- Thai donuts – hot, fresh, and fluffy
- Outstanding fried ice cream with solid ice cream core, complemented by delicious breading and chocolate sauce.
Atmosphere:
The place offers a slightly dim, tranquil setting. Not only is the food packed with flavor, but the service, especially from their server Mina, is top-notch.
The prices are reasonable, making it a local hot spot. If you are in the area and have a craving for authentic Thai cuisine, Chow Thai Cuisine should be on your list. Highly recommended!
23034 Sandalfoot Plaza Dr Boca Raton, FL 33428
Fran’s Chicken Haven
At Fran’s Chicken Haven in Boca Raton, Florida, one doesn’t merely eat chicken; they embark on a poultry pilgrimage of epic proportions. After a TV show episode left a diner craving for some scrumptious Chicken & Waffles, they zoomed straight to Fran’s, lured by rave reviews.
Chicken & Waffle Highlights:
- Gargantuan waffle, crisp yet fluffy.
- Sizable pieces of chicken: a juicy breast and a crunchy thigh.
- A generous helping of delectably sweet syrup.
- Not one, not two, but three butter packs. And trust us, this isn’t just any butter. It’s the Rolls-Royce of butters!
How was the experience, you ask? One word: transcendent.
But wait, there’s more! The Wings!
- Sweet chili: A tantalizing tango of taste.
- BBQ: A sauce so good, it could make cardboard tasty.
- Hot: For those who like a side of thrill with their chicken.
Atmosphere:
Friendly staff, a pristine dining space, and ample parking. Whether you’re fetching takeout or chilling with wings, Fran’s Chicken Haven promises more than a meal – it’s a clucking good time!
1925 N Federal Hwy Boca Raton, FL 33432
Caribbean Grill Cuban Restaurant
Tucked away in the corner of a Boca Raton strip mall, next to a 7eleven, Caribbean Grill Cuban Restaurant is a delightful revelation waiting for every food enthusiast. Its discreet exterior belies the culinary wonders within, from whiteboard menus that tease daily freshness to a vibrant hostess named Maria, lighting up every diner’s experience.
Food Highlights:
- Empanadas: Light, airy, and bound to make you go “yum!”
- Carne Asada: Slow-simmered to perfection, with flavors that dance on your palate.
- Masas de Puerco Frita: Succulent cubes of marinated pork that practically dissolve on your fork.
- Ropa Vieja: Tender beef, soaking in rich, flavorful juices.
- Sweet plantains and red beans: The ideal Cuban sidekicks.
- Steak Sandwich: A blend of crispy bread and beautifully seasoned beef.
- Cortaditos: A coffee that outshines even the famed artisan brews.
- Tres Leches: A dessert revelation—spongy, not soggy, and crowned with a homemade touch.
Atmosphere:
Stepping inside, one’s met with the warmth of family-run authenticity. The effervescent Maria guides with wit and wisdom, ensuring every guest feels right at home.
In tourist-laden Boca, Caribbean Grill offers not just affordability but an unforgettable dining escape. For those seeking the crown jewel of Cuban cuisine, look no further. Their plates don’t just serve food; they serve joy.
As we pull back the curtain on Boca Raton’s dining scene, it’s evident that some of the city’s most delectable treasures are tucked away in its least expected corners. These three ‘hole in the wall’ spots are a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most authentic flavors come from the most unassuming places. So, next time you find yourself in this Floridian paradise, bypass the mainstream and venture into the heart of Boca’s culinary underbelly. Your taste buds will thank you for the unforgettable journey.
