I've always loved Stage in Boca Raton, so I wasn't exactly thrilled when I heard they were closing the restaurant and changing the concept. Not completely crushing news, though... I can always head to the Stage location in Palm Beach when I need a fix of Chef Pushkar Marathe's amazing Indian chow.
Well, the wait is over. Boca Brasserie opened tonight, and I was very excited to see what they've created.
Happy to report... the place is great!
The menu features a bunch of American brasserie classics, along with pastas, flatbreads, burgers... even Matzah Ball Soup. There's a nice selection of steaks for meat lovers, and I'm particularly interested in returning for the Prime Rib, served only on Friday and Saturday. I'm sure many Stage regulars will also be happy to see that they kept the wildly popular Tuna Bombs.
The restaurant looks great... more booths, comfortable table spacing, the same terrific patio, and that fantastic bar. I grabbed a seat at the bar and immediately noticed the addition of Veuve Clicquot Champagne by the glass... even specially priced during Happy Hour. Looking over a new menu with a glass of VCP is one of my favorite things, so I was already primed for a great evening.
I was particularly interested in trying Chef Marathe's take on French Onion Soup (9.5), and it turned out to be one of my favorite dishes of the night. The broth is rich and deeply flavorful, the cheese silky and abundant, and a crouton with delicious crispy edges. Great!
The Prime Short Rib Pasta (9.5)... ragu, cavatelli, jus, herb gremolata, Parmesan... so safisfying. Worth a visit for this dish alone.
The Meatball from the Happy Hour menu was very good (8.0). The regular menu portion includes three; Happy Hour gives you one... but they are large. The Hot Honey Pepperoni Flatbread (8.2) was another winner, perfectly cooked. I know people love this combo, but I'm not the biggest fan of honey on pizza, so next time I order this pie, I'll skip the honey. My guest loved it.
Service was excellent. Sindy and Enrique behind the bar were terrific... friendly, knowledgeable, and professional.
Stage was a tough act to follow, but Boca Brasserie has given me a whole new reason to come here. It's already my new favorite Restaurant Row spot... great chow, great libation, and a concept that feels like a winner.
Can't wait to get back here on Fri or Sat so I can try the Prime Rib... and will report back. So many other things I also want to try.
I expect this place to be a big hit.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED read more