Healthy Food Options Served Up Fast At 3Natives

By Matthew Auerbach

3Natives Acai and Juicery, which opened last year in Wellington’s Town Square shopping plaza, specializes in smoothies and acai bowls, but also offers coffee products and a wide array of salads, wraps, toasts, cold-pressed juices and more.

Everyone is looking to eat “healthy.” The definition of the word differs slightly from person to person, depending on particular tastes and favorite foods, but generally speaking, folks want to consume dishes and drinks that are fresh, clean and made from reliable sources. And if you can get them what they’ve ordered in a short amount of time, that would be even better.

That’s where 3Natives Acai and Juicery comes in.

“3Natives is a Florida-born healthy restaurant chain that strives to make healthy food, fast and more convenient to enjoy,” explained Darren Jacob, franchise owner of the Wellington location, which opened in 2023. “Each member of the Wellington 3Natives team is dedicated to being knowledge about different supplements and ingredients, while serving and providing a positive environment to all customers.”

Jacob knows that these days, people are busier than ever. Whether they’re coming in for a sit-down meal or picking up something to bring back home or to the office, the quality and the timing has to be spot-on.

“More and more customers are determined to ‘go healthy’ these days, even when they grab and go,” Jacob said. “At 3Natives, we work with local suppliers to ensure that we are only using the freshest fruit and vegetables available, and our recipes are created to showcase the flavors of these sourced items. We work hard so our customers can reap the benefits.”

The menu is ample, and includes smoothies, salads, wraps, toasts, cold-pressed juices and, in his own opinion, “the best acai bowls around.”

“Our most popular items are some of our classics,” Jacob said. “From our acai bowls, there’s the Chronic Bowl (acai, granola, banana, strawberry, kiwi, pineapple, coconut shavings and honey) and the Local Bowl (acai, granola, banana, strawberry, blueberry and honey). Out of our dozen smoothies, the Chuck Norris (strawberry, banana, peanut butter, chocolate protein and almond milk) is a good pre- or post-workout out smoothie to fuel you up or help you recover, and our All Hopped Up (coffee, banana, almond butter and chocolate protein) features an in-house cold brew.”

If you’re looking for something to seriously chew, 3Natives also has you covered.

“Our Chicken Caesar Wrap (chicken breast, romaine, cabbage, croutons, pico de gallo, Parmesan cheese, sprouts and Caesar dressing) or Thai Chicken Wrap (chicken breast, romaine, cabbage, carrot, pineapple, sprout and ginger dressing) is guaranteed to satisfy,” Jacob said.

From the salads, he recommends the Cobb with chicken breast, romaine, cabbage, cucumber, pico de gallo, hard-boiled egg, avocado, red onion, feta cheese, sprouts and balsamic vinaigrette.

“Everyone loves our Protein Toast, which is an elevated Avocado Toast,” Jacob said. “For breakfast, I would recommend the Breakfast Burrito, hot and pressed with chicken breast, hard-boiled egg, pico, corn salsa, Kerry Gold cheese, cayenne pepper and avocado ranch dressing.”

The diverse menu is basically consistent at the various 3Natives locations across South Florida, but the Wellington location does offer a few items that aren’t available in most other stores.

“The Wellington location is one of the few stores that also offers espresso-based beverages, such as lattes and cappuccinos, using locally roasted coffee, and we also are one of the only stores that offers fresh-pressed wheatgrass,” Jacob said.

3Natives knows that many local residents are already into living a healthier existence and are aware of the kinds of foods they’re looking for. They’re also committed to helping those who are new to the lifestyle.

“We only use fresh fruits and vegetables, our chicken is raised without antibiotics, and we try to make everything in-house whenever possible,” Jacob said. “Our smoothies and acai bowls are perfect options for parents looking to introduce more healthy food options to their children.”

The name 3Natives refers to the three native Floridians who started the organization, which has since expanded to dozens of locations, mostly in Florida, but also in four other states.

“They were high school friends who were born and raised in Tequesta around the sun and the surf,” Jacob said of the founders. “The menu was inspired by their healthy and active lifestyle. It was fresh juices to start their day, followed by simple and fresh food options.”

He has wanted to bring the 3Natives concept to Wellington for years.

“After opening my first location in West Palm Beach back in 2020, I knew my next location must be in Wellington,” Jacob said. “There is a different vibe and energy in Wellington. You have a beautiful mix of people: locals, equestrians, students, tourists and industry leaders.”

3Natives in Wellington is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. It is located in Wellington’s Town Square shopping plaza at 11924 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 8. For more info., call (561) 360-2385 or visit www.3natives.com.

Enjoy Your Breakfast And Lunch At Skillets

Get a wide variety of delicious and nutritious breakfast and lunch items at Skillets, which opened last month in Wellington’s Courtyard Shops. Try out the fast-growing chain’s signature skillets, or one of the many other tasty menu items.

Rise and shine Wellington… an iconic breakfast experience is now being served! Skillets has officially opened its 16th location in Florida, right in the heart of Wellington in the Courtyard Shops at 13860 Wellington Trace.

This is Skillets Restaurants’ third location on the east coast of Florida, joining its Boca Raton and Delray Beach restaurants. This brand-new location features Skillets’ signature homemade and nutritious breakfast and lunch items. The 4,500-square-foot restaurant seats 195 guests and has 25 dedicated employees.

“As we expand in Palm Beach County, the Wellington area is an ideal fit,” Skillets CEO Joe DiGangi said. “This equestrian and family-centric area has many early risers looking for a quality breakfast experience. Wellington will fall in love with our great breakfast and lunch food choices and seasonal menu. Skillets Restaurants become a gathering space where flavors come alive, and memories are made. We look forward to serving our guests with passion and dedication. We want to thank Wellington for graciously welcoming Skillets into the community.”

In 1995, Ross and Noreen Edlund started their first Skillets in Naples. Now, they have five locations in Naples alone and have expanded across Florida. Their mission from the beginning has been to prepare homemade, delicious and nutritious breakfasts and lunches from scratch with top-notch, friendly and efficient service in inviting and comfortable surroundings.

“We have had great success on the west coast, with Skillets being a common household name, and we could not be more excited about the early success of our restaurants in Boca and Delray,” Skillets founder Ross Edlund said. “Wellington is a great addition to our Palm Beach expansion. We hope to become a staple in the Wellington community and look forward to feeding generations of families there.”

Skillets’ truly unique offerings make it stand out from the rest when it comes to breakfast. It is naturally most famous for its homemade, extensive choice of skillets, offering a variety of ingredients and sides crafted for the ultimate flavor experience. Guests will also find breakfast classics elevated by thoughtful sourcing and best-in-class cooking techniques on the menu, including international favorites like crepes and Skillets’ famous scones. Skillets even offers gluten-free waffles, pancakes and other health-forward options that align with Blue Zones criteria for a better and longer life.

Leading off the menu are the restaurant’s signature skillets, in several variations, layered with Skillets Potatoes oven-baked to a golden brown, topped with two eggs and a choice of toast, scone or biscuit. Also popular are the pancakes, available in buttermilk, stone-ground whole-grain or gluten-free, or the tasty potato pancakes, made from scratch and always light, lacy and crispy brown.

There are also a number of vegetarian options, such as Noreen’s Breakfast with steamed spinach, grilled tomato slices, topped with sliced avocado and chopped chives, served with a poached egg, toast and fruit. Other popular choices are the omelets, frittatas, eggs benedict, French toast, waffles, crepes and blintzes. Lunch offerings include an array of sandwiches, paninis, wraps and salads.

Skillets Wellington has created a charity partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs in Wellington. “This organization is not only beloved in the community but known for its outstanding work with children, and we are so excited to be able to support their club in Wellington, the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club,” Skillets founder Noreen Edlund said.

The club was the beneficiary of Skillets’ grand opening held Tuesday, July 9, which also kicked off their Kids Eat Free program, available at all Skillets locations every Tuesday. Skillets Restaurants also supports the Child Advocacy Agency at all locations year-round.

Since 1995, Skillets has provided guests with delicious food and friendly service in a clean, inviting, pine-accented environment. Envisioned by Ross and Noreen Edlund, the goal was to create a restaurant that offered the local community higher quality comfort food and personal service than diners and restaurant chains. Using only premium ingredients, Skillets serves breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 16 locations in Florida, including Naples, Fort Myers, Bradenton, South Sarasota, Venice, Bonita Springs, Lely, Wellington, Delray Beach, Boca Raton and Port Charlotte.

Skillets of Wellington is located in the Courtyard Shops at 13860 Wellington Trace. For more information, call (561) 660-8304 or visit www.skilletsrestaurants.com.

Enjoy Quick And Healthy Snacks And Treats At Fresh Mangos

For something healthy and very satisfying, visit Fresh Mangos, now open in the Mall at Wellington Green. The new Wellington location is the fifth South Florida outpost for this locally owned chain.

You can work up quite an appetite during a day of shopping. If you’re looking to dive into something healthy and tasty during a break in your buying, head on over to Fresh Mangos. The company recently opened its fifth South Florida location in the Mall at Wellington Green.

Fresh Mangos began as a way to fill a need for shoppers.

“We observed that malls had very few, if any, healthy snack options for their customers,” owner Jessica Tafur said. “If someone is hungry while in the mall, they have to eat some kind of junk food or high-carb or high-sugar snack. We decided to change that and offer something healthy and delicious.”

Fresh Mangos has been around since 2018, when the first Fresh Mangos opened at the Palm Beach Outlets (now the Tanger Outlets). Since then, they’ve developed a menu that’s hard to beat.

“Now we have mangos with more than 20 topping choices, depending on the location, up to four varieties of natural juice, frozen drinks, açaí and pitaya bowls, smoothie bowls, parfaits, fruit bowls, energizing teas, boba tea and more,” Tafur said.

If you like to eat your mangos sliced, you’re in the right place.

“The five sliced mango options on the menu were actually the clients’ top five combinations,” she said. “We decided to name the most popular combinations and put them on the menu for convenience, and to make the ordering process faster.”

You can choose between the Classic, Mexican Spicy, Flavor Explosion, Sweet Temptation or the Build Your Own, each with their own particular toppings, to satiate your mango mania.

As for which offerings are among customers’ favorites, it’s a question of where and who.

“This really depends on the mall we are in and the demographic of our customers,” Tafur said. “But in general, besides the mangos with toppings, the smoothies and açaí, pitaya and smoothie bowls are very popular.”

What, then, is the magic of the mango? Apparently, it all comes down to its adaptability.

“Mangos are one of those fruits that grow in just about every continent and are enjoyed in so many different ways,” Tafur said. “In Latin America alone, there are many ways of eating this fruit. Some like it green with salt and lime, others ripe and sweet, still others like to add hot sauce or sweet condensed milk. Travel to Asia, where it is eaten with sticky rice and cilantro, and then North America, where it is enjoyed ripe and in smoothies and drinks. The possibilities with mangos are quite vast.”

Fresh Mangos is well-aware that time is of the essence. Maybe you’re on a lunch break, maybe you’ve only got a few minutes to spare and need something to “grab and go.” Not only are they ready for you, but Fresh Mangos is also dedicated to making sure whatever you’re buying will keep you in the game.

“We like to think of ourselves as healthy fast food,” Tafur said. “We have our fruit ready to go, our juice is in the dispensers, and everyone has been trained in the most efficient way of preparing everything, so we can get our customers taken care of quickly. We are not as fast as a drive-through, since everything is made to order, but we do our best to be quick.”

Fresh Mangos and the Mall at Wellington Green is a match made in commercial heaven. They’d been waiting to set up shop in Wellington for a while, and finally, all the stars aligned.

“We have been wanting to open in this mall for years, but for several reasons, that was not possible,” Tafur said. “Many of our customers would come to our Tanger Outlet location in West Palm Beach and ask us if we would open in Wellington. We finally did! We are a bit hidden, but you can find us on the first floor, in front of California Pizza Kitchen. The clients of Wellington also deserve a healthy snack alternative.”

Check out Fresh Mangos during your next visit to the Mall at Wellington Green, and you — and everyone with you — will come away happy.

“We do not just have to be a snack, we have sandwiches and crepes as well for a larger meal,” Jessica said. “We have many families stop by, and everyone finds something on the menu that they like. Parents are happy their kids got a healthy snack, and kids are happy with their snack. Young adults and teens can also find something to their liking, usually smoothies or frozen drinks or boba tea. For our clients who like to work out, we have protein smoothies and zero sugar energizing teas. We have something for everyone.”

Fresh Mangos is located on the lower level of the Mall at Wellington Green across from California Pizza Kitchen and near Dillard’s. For more information, visit www.myfreshmangos.com.

Fresh, Healthy Mediterranean Bowls Made To Order At Olive U

By Joshua Manning

While fast food is convenient, it’s often unhealthy. Olive U Mediterranean Grill, now open in Wellington, aims to change that. The chain of fast casual restaurants serves fresh and healthy choices, starting with their signature, hand-crafted Mediterranean bowls.

Olive U Mediterranean Grill invites you to “live the fresh life” at its new location on State Road 7 in front of the plaza with Whole Foods Market in Wellington.

Olive U takes fast casual Mediterranean dining to a whole new level, featuring a menu of ingredients to make personalized bowls for lunch or dinner.

“We use top-quality ingredients with no shortcuts,” said owner Abdul Aburmaieleh, who created the concept seven years ago and has plans to expand throughout the South Florida area. “Our culture entails our customer service. People are greeted at the door and feel welcomed. When they taste our food, they are wowed.”

Customers can mix and match from a wide array of flavorful combinations. Olive U specializes in gyros, salads and their signature, hand-crafted Mediterranean-flavored bowls, which start under $12.

When you arrive at Olive U, the first thing you’ll do is choose the base for your bowl from choices such as lettuce, pita, hummus, cinnamon rice, or lentils and rice. Next, you’ll choose your protein from among the seasoned Olive U chicken, chicken shawarma, falafel, beef and lamb gyro, or tofu.

There is also an array of toppings to choose from, such as lettuce, onions, pickles, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumbers, banana or jalapeño peppers, feta cheese, garbanzo beans and Kalamata olives. Finally, choose from among several sauce toppings.

“We use all natural spices. No preservatives. It’s a place where you eat and feel good about it. Healthy food does not have to be boring,” Aburmaieleh explained. “I believe in the concept of garden to table. That is where all of our ingredients come from. We just cut it and serve it.”

Looking for something more? You can add an appetizer to your meal. Choices include hummus, tzatziki, baba ghanoush, spicy feta, falafel, grape leaves and fries. Can’t decide? Put together three to build your own appetizer plate.

After, save room for a piece of sweet, taste-tempting baklava to finish your meal.

With a background in law enforcement, Aburmaieleh owned Mediterranean restaurants in Columbus, Ohio, before moving to Florida in 2014. He created Olive U because the market for Mediterranean food is growing.

“It is very clean and associated with healthy foods,” Aburmaieleh said. “That’s why it is gaining popularity, because you are focusing on what Mediterranean food encompasses, whether it is the olive oil or vegetables.”

Not sure how to put together your bowl? He has a recommendation.

“I love the chicken shawarma or the Olive U chicken with cinnamon rice and the house sauce,” Aburmaieleh said, who also enjoys a side order of hummus with his meal. “Also, I personally think our gyro on pita with the sauce is game winning.”

There are also family meal options and catering available. If you’re looking for a healthy meal to bring home for dinner, the Olive U Family Dinners include a choice of bases and proteins, plus five fresh toppings, and include a hummus and pita appetizer, as well as the signature house sauce — all for just $49.

The restaurant features a crisp, modern look with plenty of indoor seats, as well as a few tables outside in front of the store. Takeout and delivery are available. Cleanliness is a point of pride with Aburmaieleh, as is having a friendly, welcoming staff ready to go above and beyond for customers.

Olive U Wellington is one of five current locations of this growing food concept. There are also two in Boca Raton, one in Delray Beach and one in Palm Beach Gardens.

“I was fascinated by the Chipotle concept, and I wanted to create a similar service with authentic Mediterranean food, which is my background,” said Aburmaieleh, who will be opening a West Boynton location on Hagen Ranch Road this summer before shifting focus to Pembroke Pines, Plantation and Davie in Broward County. “Our four-year plan calls for 17 more stores.”

He is excited about the reception Olive U has received in the Wellington market.

“I love Wellington. I used to live here. Based on the demographics, I knew that Olive U would do so well,” Aburmaieleh said. “We have had nothing but wonderful feedback from customers. It was our best opening.”

He invites everyone who hasn’t been to the store yet to come by and “feel the love.”

“My philosophy at Olive U is always to give the customer the best, high-quality ingredients and never take shortcuts,” he said. “This is how we want to be different. When people hear the name Olive U, they think of three things — quality, friendliness and great food.”

Olive U Wellington is located at 2535 S. State Road 7, Suite 130. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. To learn more, call (561) 500-5010 or visit www.oliveugrill.com.

A Unique Take On Indian Street Food

Masala Mantra Indian Cuisine, which opened recently in Royal Palm Beach, is the latest venture by the owners of the popular Aroma Indian Cuisine in West Palm Beach. Masala Mantra brings a modern twist to the street foods of India.

Expanding the local culinary scene, a unique take on Indian street food has arrived in the western communities with the recent opening of Masala Mantra Indian Cuisine, a family-owned restaurant located in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping plaza.

The menu showcases the essence of Indian culinary artistry, fusing traditional flavors with innovative twists that redefine the street foods of India, creating a modern and dynamic dining experience.

Masala Mantra distinguishes itself through contemporary twists on traditional Indian flavors and dishes, and the creative story behind its design is conceptualized by Hridaan Patel, the young son of owners Purnima and Krunalbhai Patel.

Using the video game Minecraft, Hridaan helped create the restaurant’s unique ambiance, capturing the vibrancy of India’s streets with a playful, modern twist, and offering a dining experience that is as visually engaging as it is delicious.

Krunalbhai describes Masala Mantra as more than a restaurant.

“This is an immersive journey into the essence of Indian street food, re-envisioned through a contemporary lens,” he explained. “Each dish is crafted to narrate a story, blending tradition with innovation in a manner designed to surprise and delight our patrons and their palates.”

Masala Mantra’s unique ambiance sets the stage for a one-of-a-kind gastronomic adventure. Hridaan’s vision demonstrates how traditional elements can be creatively reinterpreted to blend with Krunalbhai and Purnima’s fresh and innovative perspective on Indian cuisine.

Dishes include entrée favorites such as jini dosa, biryani, chicken lollipops and stuffed mushrooms, and desserts like chocolate samosa.

“Every dish is rich in tradition yet infused with a contemporary twist that I believe will delight and surprise our guests,” Krunalbhai said. “It’s not just about dining; it’s about embarking on a flavorful journey that pays homage to India’s diverse and rich culinary heritage.”

Masala Mantra is the latest venture by the owners of Aroma Indian Cuisine in West Palm Beach. While Aroma focuses on traditional Indian dishes, Masala Mantra brings a modern twist to the street foods of India.

“We grew up savoring these delightful dishes in India, and we’re delighted to share our favorite timeless classics with everyone,” Krunalbhai said. “From popular Indian street food snacks like Basket Chaat and Lamb Khaldale, to the beloved classic dish Butter Chicken, our menu offers a variety of flavors to enjoy. To complete your dining experience, indulge in desserts like Walnut Halwa, and my personal favorite, Sizzling Brownie.”

The Patel family is excited to be bringing their vision of Indian cuisine to the diverse and growing western communities.

“My wife, Purnima, and I chose to open an Indian restaurant in the Royal Palm Beach area due to its pleasant neighborhood and strategic location, embodying the community atmosphere we wished to highlight,” Krunalbhai said.

A well-attending grand opening event was held in January, he added.

“We have been overwhelmed by the warm reception and enthusiasm from the community,” Krunalbhai said. “It has been a joy to see so many faces, new and familiar, embarking on this gastronomic journey with us. Our goal has always been to celebrate the spirit of Indian street food through a modern lens.”

A great time to explore this new dining option is on Mother’s Day, when Masala Mantra will be offering an exploration of Indian-inspired libations and culinary creations. Throughout the special day, all mothers can enjoy a complimentary cocktail with the purchase of any menu item to complement their experience.

From 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., guests can enjoy a Mother’s Day brunch including bottomless cocktails (complimentary for mothers) from brunch or lunch offerings, such as Egg Burji, Grilled Paneer Sandwich and Chocolate Dosa with Banana. You can also visit from 5 to 10 p.m. to indulge in timeliness Indian classics like Butter Chicken, Tikka Masala, a variety of naan flavors and more.

When visiting Masala Mantra, you will be able to immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the cuisine while savoring expertly crafted cocktails. Discover the perfect pairing of food and drink from a variety of signature cocktails ($13) including: Masala Guava, a chili-infused Tito’s vodka with triple sec, guava and lime; Mango Margarita, a chili-influenced tequila with mango puree and lime; and Kalakhatta Mojito, an Indian version of a classic cocktail with gin, blackberry, black salt and mint.

Restaurant hours are Sunday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and 5 to 10 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and 5 to 10:30 p.m. Masala Mantra is also available for private events.

Masala Mantra Indian Cuisine is located at 11051 Southern Blvd., Unit 210, in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping plaza. For more information, call (561) 328-7497 or visit www.masalamantraroyalpalmbeach.com.

An Elevated Italian Dining Experience

Story and Photos by Melanie Kopacz

Bella Cucina restaurant exudes an essence all its own with a dining experience that will serenade your senses with impeccable Italian dishes, rich in flavor and artistry.

The new Italian restaurant Bella Cucina is an elevated experience that brings an exciting new dining addition to the western communities.

The reimagined space opened in October in the Village Royale plaza at the northwest corner of Royal Palm Beach and Okeechobee boulevards. Facing Royal Palm Beach Blvd., the space was formerly home to Mario Bros. Italian Restaurant.

Bella Cucina lives up to its name, meaning “beautiful kitchen,” as each plate of northern-style Italian cuisine is exquisitely crafted and prepared to delight.

“If you see something with your eyes, you’re going to like it. Everything comes from the eyes. Sometimes not by how much — it’s all about the quality,” chef and owner Edgar Perez said.

Quality, like the Linguine Frutti di Mare, a dish filled with favorites from the sea. Succulent shrimp, clams, mussels, scallops and calamari are served with linguine in a white wine sauce.

Another delicacy is the Vitello alla Milanese, thinly breaded veal topped with arugula, tomato, shaved parmigiano and roasted potatoes.

“I always wanted to open a restaurant with Italian cuisine, because we love that food,” Perez said. “A restaurant with a nice menu, good quality food and service.”

His career has taken him on a 25-year culinary journey starting at age 14 when he arrived in the United States from Guatemala. He has since entrenched himself in every aspect of the business at several large restaurant franchises, to eventually opening up three of his own Sabor Latino restaurants throughout Palm Beach County.

In 2016, he met his wife, Gladys Suarez, shortly after she arrived from Venezuela. While working together, they realized they had much in common.

“We have almost the same taste in food, and we created many of the dishes together,” he said.

The two are now embarking on this newest culinary collaboration together, and each dish and guest is given special attention.

“We’re happy. She loves what she’s doing. She loves customer service. We strive to make guests happy with excellence in service,” Perez said.

From the thoughtful preparation to the moment the meal is plated, vibrant accents accompany the dish with flowers and fruit.

One of those masterpieces is Costata di Manzo, a grilled prime rib sizzling in flavor over a bed of lobster mashed potatoes. Alongside is an artistic take on a salad, with a stuffed tomato that has been boiled, peeled and filled with arugula, onions and dressing, like an edible treasure chest. Branzino alla Griglia also is popular. The grilled Mediterranean striped bass is topped with a lemon butter sauce and sautéed vegetables over mashed potatoes.

Smaller plates include grilled octopus with sautéed arugula, cherry tomatoes and onions, topped with chimichurri. This crispy calamari is served with both marinara and a spicy sauce. Other traditional favorites include savory lasagna, lobster ravioli, and chicken prepared several ways, such as Francese, Parmigiana and Marsala. A special menu for children offers Spaghetti Bolognese, Fettuccine Alfredo and more.

Lunchtime is a great way to try the soups, sandwiches and pizza, Monday through Friday, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pizzas can also be created to taste, with many toppings to choose from.

“Our house pizza has fresh mozzarella with arugula, tomatoes, prosciutto and shaved parmesan,” Perez said. “We can add grilled chicken on top, too.”

The bright and cozy dining room seats 50 with a quaint elegance as jazz plays in the background. White quartz tabletops, contrasting black chairs and lounge-style couches are topped with gold accent pillows.

Cocktails are specially crafted with bright colors and elegant dried fruit. Tinto de Verano is a popular red wine with lime juice, Sprite and dried lemon to garnish. The Bella Pineapple Cocktail is a hit, made with coconut wine, sweet and dark wine, along with pineapple juice and a splash of grenadine, served in an ice-cold brass pineapple cocktail mug.

Limoncello liqueur is a great way to finish dinner. It also comes in a flight.

“The limoncello flight is my favorite,” Suarez said. “It’s a combination of two limoncello with two cream limoncello. A sampler, so if you don’t want to drink too much.”

For dessert, try the Limoncello Mascarpone Cake, a sponge cake dipped in lemon liqueur and layered with imported mascarpone. The Tiramisu also is layered with mascarpone after the sponge cake is soaked in espresso then sprinkled with cocoa.

Traditional coffees complete the experience, from a tasty espresso to a frothy cappuccino or latte, complete with biscotti.

“We welcome all for a great, delicious meal in a comfortable setting, and surprise you with nice food,” Perez explained.

The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Bella Cucina is located at 1193 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in the Village Royale plaza. For more information, call (561) 656-1990 or visit www.bellacucinaristorante.com.

Meat N’ Bone: A Butcher Shop, And So Much More

By Julie Khanna/Khanna Connections

Enjoy curated gastronomy in the heart of Wellington. Meat N’ Bone delivers high-quality meat products throughout South Florida and beyond, and its new boutique in Wellington is a haven for meat lovers.

Chef, traveler and raconteur Anthony Bourdain once claimed that without unique fine foods to enjoy, life is simply not worth living. This is a philosophy that co-founder Gabriel Llauradó has taken to heart with Meat N’ Bone, a discerning purveyor of high-quality meats, poultry and caviar based in South Florida that recently opened a boutique store in the Wellington Marketplace.

Llauradó is passionate about steak and sees himself as a docent of sorts, working with customers to create not just a memorable meal, but an unforgettable dining event.

“Back when we were kids, my mom would take me to the butcher,” Llauradó recalled. “She knew what she wanted, and she asked questions.”

He is looking to replicate that experience with Meat N’ Bone, and encourages customers to come in, spend some time and learn about the vast array of fine meats that the store carries.

“We want to show you our offerings and talk about it. You start asking questions, and we put the beef on the table,” Llauradó said. “We want you to touch the steaks, it’s fresh meat. Anything with a bone has a different shelf life, so some of the cuts are frozen, but we strive for freshness.”

With four boutique locations in Miami, Parkland, Pinecrest and Wellington, with a fifth opening in Hallandale Beach later this year, Meat N’ Bone delivers to all of Miami-Dade, Broward and most of Palm Beach County, and can deliver for free if customers schedule deliveries ahead of time. Meat N’ Bone also offers a Grill Master service for private events.

“Let’s say you want to host an event at your house, but you don’t feel like standing at the grill all night. For $200 plus the cost of the meat, we can bring a guy who cooks to order,” Llauradó explained. “Each one of our guys has hundreds of hours of grill experience and knows our products, so it’s much more unique than going out to a steakhouse.”

Llauradó created Meat N’ Bone with co-founder Luis Mata after being frustrated by the mediocre meat offerings found in Miami. Since then, it has grown exponentially. While the majority of sales are through their web site, the boutique stores allow customers a different way of buying meat.

Creating exclusive gastronomic affairs is at the heart of Meat N’ Bone’s culture, and one of the ways they cultivate this is through their dry aging and alcohol-infusion process.

Dry aging is the difference between the steak you grill in the backyard and the steaks you get when eating out. A process which both helps tenderness and intensifies flavor, large cuts of beef are aged between one month to several months before being cut into steaks.

“We have one of the best dry-age programs in the nation; we dry age in Chicago,” Llauradó said. “The thing about dry aged is it’s not for everybody. When you cook it, it has a little bit of a nutty flavor. It’s not that commonly found, and it’s not that simple to source. Our 45-day dry-aged tomahawk is incredibly flavorful.”

The concept of alcohol-infused steak came about during the pandemic. While the rest of the country was in lockdown making sourdough bread, Llauradó was conceptualizing how to combine the classic combination of steaks and spirits.

“I’m an avid drinker,” Llauradó said with a warm chuckle. “When dry aging, we infused the muscles with liquor. We did single malt whiskey, and it was delicious, but my favorite is the rum. We partnered up with Diplomático, a Venezuelan rum brand, and it was amazing. The sugar from the rum stays there, and when you cook it, you get an incredible crust.”

In addition to dry-aged steak, Meat N’ Bone prides itself on sourcing rare cuts of meat only found in the most exclusive of retailers. Picanha Steak Wagyu is highly sought-after, much beloved in Brazil, and almost impossible to find in the United States — unless you’re Gabriel Llauradó.

“It has a fat cap that crisps up beautifully when cooked, and a delicious buttery flavor that’s almost addictive,” he said. “Our Picanhas come from a family-owned company, and we have compared this program to others from major chains, finding that it consistently tastes better.”

Meat N’ Bone also carries the rarest steak in the world, the heralded New York Olive Sanuki Wagyu, a Japanese A5 Wagyu from Shodoshima Island, where cattle breeding goes back over a millennium.

“Olive-fed Wagyu comes from steers raised on a special feed of olive mulch and has become famous for its higher levels of oleic acid and nutty taste,” Llauradó said. “The texture is soft and buttery; the fat is sweet and very digestible.”

For those with a discerning palate who prefer seafood or pork to beef, Meat N’ Bone offers wild-caught African tiger prawns and Jamon Iberico from Spain.

“Our pork chops come from Farm Vera Vieja in Badajoz, Spain, from black Iberian pigs who roam freely and are fed a diet of grass and grain,” Llauradó said. “We call it the Wagyu of pork.”

A trip to Meat N’ Bone is less a trip to the butcher and more the start of a culinary journey. Llauradó is passionate about great food and bringing people together.

“Most people will learn more about beef in one visit to Meat N’ Bone than in a lifetime of buying from the supermarket,” he said.

Meat N’ Bone’s Wellington boutique is located at 13837 Wellington Trace, Suite B7, in the Wellington Marketplace. For more information, call (877) 448-6328 or visit www.meatnbone.com.

Pura Vida: Healthy Eating, South Florida Style
The growing all-day wellness café and lifestyle brand Pura Vida Miami recently opened a new location serving the Wellington area.

The growing all-day wellness café and lifestyle brand Pura Vida Miami recently opened a new location serving the Wellington area.

A vibrant new destination for health enthusiasts has arrived in the Wellington area. Pura Vida Miami, South Florida’s leading wellness and lifestyle brand, recently opened its 17th location on State Road 7. Closely following the recent opening of Pura Vida’s West Boca location, Pura Vida’s outpost in this area fills a void for delectable and equally nourishing foods in the western communities and promises to become a neighborhood hub where friends and family are eager to return time and again.

“We’re really looking forward to tapping into this new market and having the opportunity to create something unique. I lived in Wellington for a brief period, so this opening holds special meaning to me and feels like a homecoming,” said Jennifer Horev, chief brand officer at Pura Vida, who operates the chain with her husband Omer Horev, CEO and founder of Pura Vida. “Wellington is an exceptional place with people from all over the world, and the equestrian season attracts some of the most vibrant people. I’m really excited to share our brand with both visitors and residents, and bring a touch of Miami’s tropical vibe to the area.”

Pura Vida’s local outpost offers a captivating blend of all-day cuisine and picturesque charm in 3,100 square feet of indoor and outdoor seating.

Pura Vida’s commitment to sourcing local and organic ingredients, along with high-quality proteins, ensures a diverse menu catering to various dietary preferences. Drawing inspiration from family recipes and the Horevs’ extensive travels, every item on the menu is carefully crafted for individuals who value health, along with exceptional food that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

The chain’s renowned all-day breakfast selection features an array of offerings, including avocado toast, pasture-raised egg sandwiches, fresh bagels, raw organic açaí bowls, and an assortment of freshly baked gluten-free and vegan sweet treats.

Beyond breakfast, the expansive menu showcases a wellness-driven assortment of salads, wraps, sandwiches and bowls. Complementing the menu are cold-pressed juices, invigorating shots, kombucha, and artisanal coffees and teas.

Families are also in for a treat, as Pura Vida offers a kids’ menu with delightful and gluten-free options like Tiny Toasted Chicken, Cheesy Grilled Cheese and Kid’s Acai, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all ages.

“We are thrilled to be bringing our slice of tropical paradise to the Wellington area,” Omer Horev said. “It’s the perfect place to continue expanding our footprint in Palm Beach County and also gives us the opportunity to serve and connect with its neighboring communities of Royal Palm Beach, Greenacres and Loxahatchee Groves, among others. Wellington and its surrounding neighborhoods are the ideal family-friendly communities we wish to immerse ourselves into.”

Since 2012, this family-owned and operated lifestyle brand has been dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. With more than 550 careers created across the region and active sustainability initiatives, including beach cleanups and food waste composting, Pura Vida continues to enrich South Florida’s cultural and environmental landscape.

In addition to the new restaurant on State Road 7, Pura Vida operates 17 other locations, including South Beach, West Ave., Edgewater, Miami Design District, West Palm Beach, Aventura, Bay Harbor, Las Olas, Brickell, Sunset Harbour, Miracle Mile, South Miami, Doha, Qatar, Doral, Miami Shores and West Boca.

Pura Vida Miami is located at 440 S. State Road 7, Suite 200, on the west side of State Road 7 at the border of Wellington and Royal Palm Beach. Delivery and pick-up are available through the Pura Vida Miami app. For more info., visit www.puravidamiami.com.

Enjoy Amazing Pizza And So Much More Big Rocco’s Pizzeria And Tavern In RPB Is Part Neighborhood Bar and Part Italian Restaurant

Story and Photos by Melanie Kopacz

Big Rocco’s Pizzeria and Tavern is part pizzeria and part neighborhood bar with a weekly lineup of live music to rock anyone’s musical tastes.

The bar concept includes pool leagues, poker, bingo and sporting events meshed with a lively crowd. There’s also amped-up pub food and a bar full of specials. But it’s the traditional New York-style pizza at Big Rocco’s that is the true star with a fan base all its own.

The restaurant has become a destination for its New York-style flavors, opening its doors in 2019 at the Village Shoppes, located at the northwest corner of Southern Blvd. and State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach.

Big Rocco’s is a loyal go-to for pizza lovers craving the authentic flavor, sauce and crust.

“It’s all made from scratch — the dough and the sauce, using San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes,” said owner Vikas Bansal, who moved from India to New York City, and that’s where he quickly became a fan of East Coast-style pizza. “I lived in New York City for 17 years. I always loved the pizza there.”

It became the inspiration years later when Bansal opened a gas station in Wellington. That is where the concept for Big Rocco’s came to be. Starting as a very busy “Express” pizza to-go business, Bansal decided to expand his popular pizza business into a full restaurant and tavern with live events. It has been attracting both locals and the equestrian crowd during the season, as it’s geared for people of all ages.

“We want people to come in and have a good time,” Bansal said. “Parents and kids.”

The casual atmosphere makes for a laid-back dining experience, with a wide variety of pizza choices, such as the popular BBQ Chicken Pizza, layered with a smoky sauce, generous portions of tender chicken, sprinkled with onions and bacon. It is one of the top choices on the menu.

The New Yorker Pizza is also a big seller, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, onions and mushrooms, along with a mix of fresh red and green peppers. Make it a Big Rocco’s Signature Pizza by taking all those same ingredients, then add ham, tomatoes, black olives and extra cheese.

Other interesting combinations include the Meatball Parm Pizza, topped with ricotta cheese, meatballs and fresh garlic, and the Buffalo Chicken Pizza with grilled chicken and blue cheese crumbles.

For a great deal, check out the large cheese pizza special for $10.99 Mondays and Tuesdays. Add a topping or two for 99 cents each.

Lunch specials from just $7.99 run until 3 p.m. and include a beverage or a draft beer. It includes different combinations, from two slices of pizza, or mix it up with a garden salad. Cheeseburgers or chicken tenders with fries are also available. Drink specials at that time are $3 for draft beers and $5 for house liquor.

The dining room is filled with lots of high-top seating, as well as a few large and cozy corner booths. The bar sits just toward the back with seating all along three sides. There are a number of drink specials and about a dozen beers on tap that rotate. At the bar, the top seller is Fifty States 6x distilled premium vodka.

If you’re looking to snack, the wings are a specialty that come in several flavors, from southern barbecue to honey bourbon, garlic parmesan and more. They’re marinated, baked and flash-fried for a juicy, crispy wing.

The Hangover Burger is a huge hit, oozing with toppings that include cheddar cheese, sliced tomatoes, bacon, a fried egg and mango habanero sauce to round out the flavors. There’s also stromboli and calzone choices, including a veggie option.

Piping hot meatballs made fresh from scratch are simmered in their homemade tomato sauce and sit atop spaghetti. They come with the popular garlic knots, baked and basted with butter and fresh garlic.

The New York Cheesecake is a delicious way to end a meal, topped with a variety of drizzle options, including chocolate, caramel, strawberry or blackberry.

The large pool room sits toward the back of the restaurant. It also doubles as a private party room. It includes darts and other games. A large wine selection fills the nearby wall.

The dining room is lit with warm fixtures creating a relaxed atmosphere, as Louis Prima and Dean Martin songs play on the jukebox, and paintings of Al Pacino and Leonardo DiCaprio hang on the walls.

A variety of genres of live music fill the restaurant every Friday night, spanning from country, to pop, rock and folk. The fun continues throughout the week with poker night on Wednesdays, bingo on Thursdays and karaoke on Saturdays, as well as monthly paint-n-sip parties. Big Rocco’s also hosts a large contingent of Miami Dolphins football fans.

“We also have a charity event once a month with as many as 200 people, along with vendors, a quarter auction and more,” Bansal said. “Our goal is to be a neighborhood bar and a favorite restaurant.”

Current hours are noon to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, and noon to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. The restaurant will open daily at 11 a.m. during the winter equestrian season.

Big Rocco’s Pizzeria and Tavern is located at 10479 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach’s Village Shoppes. For more info., call (561) 318-8927 or visit www.bigroccospizzeriatavern.com. Find them on Facebook and Instagram for details on upcoming events.