Downtown West Palm Beach, specifically the Clematis area, has seen a rebirth as of late. These few blocks have become a culinary mecca, with great restaurants lined up and down. Every week it seems like something new is popping up, drawing rave reviews from critics and the general populous alike.
One of the newest is farm-to-table Avocado Grill, the brainchild of French chef Julien Gremaud (former executive chef of Pistache).
Avocado-centric foods fill the menu at Avocado Grill — Photo courtesy of Avocado Grill
Google farm-to-table, and you'll get a definition that says something along the lines of "refers to a movement that involves sourcing food locally, preparing it in-house and serving it to patrons, on a table."
Avocado Grill is definitely a farm-to-table type of eatery. Its innovative menu items are built from scratch, all while utilizing the freshest local inputs possible. In fact, Gremaud mentions that one of the only things he flies in is duck (from Long Island) for his duck sushi.
The menu is small, but robust at the same time. Small plates are the focus, with line items like crab-stuffed zucchini blossom, short ribs and beef gnocchi being some of the highlights.
There are also a variety of creative sushi rolls, a raw bar (with three oyster types) and some larger meals like hanger steak and local favorite mahi-mahi available.
The Key lime green exterior mixed with an eclectic inside forewarns patrons that the upcoming dining experience will truly be a roller coaster ride. Besides being crafty with food items, the drinks available will surely prove to be a draw themselves. Specialty cocktails, along with select wine and beers, will help complete any meal.
Avocado Grill does dinner and brunch. It's advised to make reservations for both, as seating space is limited, and the hype surrounding the grill will ensure the place stays packed throughout the season.
Don't believe the menu tunes down for brunch. The four-hour spectacle features live music or a DJ, half-price Champagne, $15 bottomless rosé and choice omelets.
When Gramaud was brainstorming this restaurant, he was originally focused on Ft. Lauderdale and Miami. In the end, he couldn't help but settle on West Palm, due to its up-and-coming status as a top spot for culinary genius.
His Avocado Grill could prove to be the next big sensation, drawing hoards of snowbirds from Palm Beach over the bridge to sample his otherworldly fares.
So if you're planning on being anywhere in South Florida this season, be sure and snag a reservation at this trendy new West Palm Beach eatery.
