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.

Swank Farm Table Season Preview Enjoy A Feast For The Senses At A Wide Array Of Special Culinary Events

As the local growing season comes into full swing, Swank Specialty Produce is once again set to captivate the hearts and palates of area food enthusiasts with its highly anticipated Swank Table series and Farmers Market.

This year promises a lineup of extraordinary chefs and a series of immersive culinary experiences that celebrate the bounty of Florida’s vibrant agricultural scene. It promises to be a season of unforgettable flavors and community camaraderie.

Considered a culinary extravaganza, the Swank Table series, comprising 10 enchanting al fresco dinners set on the farm, kicks off on Sunday, Nov. 12, with a festive Fall Harvest Hoe Down, followed by a Farm Market Asado on Sunday, Dec. 3, with eight more Swank Table events planned for January through April.

These events are a celebration of the finest ingredients sourced from Florida’s farmers, ranchers, artisanal producers, micro-brewers, distillers and winemakers. The culmination of these elements results in an extravagant multicourse dinner meticulously curated by top-tier chefs. Each Swank Table event also contributes to a local charity, adding a meaningful dimension to the dining experience.

The evening begins with a refreshing welcome cocktail, courtesy of UNA Vodka and Miami Club Rum, followed by an amuse-bouche to tantalize the taste buds. Attendees can then indulge in a selection of canapés featuring four distinct appetizers crafted by the featured chefs, perfectly paired with bubbles.

Guests are invited to explore the hydroponic grow houses, guided personally by co-owner Darrin Swank, or take a leisurely stroll through the fields, gaining insight into the workings of this bustling farm. The pinnacle of the evening arrives with a delectable five-course plated dinner beneath Swank’s rustic pole barn. Sommelier Jon Wine curates a selection of wines to harmonize with the dishes, while local craft brewers present an array of their specialty beers. Live music from South Florida’s favorite musicians sets the tone for a memorable evening, leaving guests feeling like cherished members of the Swank family.

A stellar chef lineup for this season, Swank Specialty Produce is delighted to welcome Jon Sarmiento as the lead chef liaison, bringing a wealth of experience both on and off the farm. His culinary journey includes stints at renowned establishments such as Cholo Soy and Palm Beach Meats. Joining him are an array of exciting new participating chefs, including South Florida’s own Carlos Garcia from Leku, Brian Nasajon of Beaker & Gray, Akino West from Rosie’s, Chef Moon of Sushi by Bou, Johnny Demartini from Ravish, Huy Hoang from Le Colonial, Warren’s Jen Knox and the esteemed Antonio Bachour. Additionally, the farm will play host to visiting culinary talents Fabian Di Paolo from Shearwater Tavern in California, Jonathan Merry from Riverhouse in Maine and the eagerly anticipated return of Buccan’s Clay Conley.

With this exciting lineup of talent, immersive farm experiences and a thriving Farmers Market, Swank Specialty Produce’s season promises a feast for the senses and a celebration of community spirit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to indulge in the finest flavors of Florida’s bounty. “Tickets for all events are on sale now, so mark your calendars and join us for a season of unforgettable moments on the farm,” co-owner Jodi Swank said.

The season opens with the Fall Harvest Hoe Down on Sunday, Nov. 12 at 4 p.m., benefiting Beachwood Integrative Equine Therapy, and the Farm Market Asado on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Bak Middle School of the Arts Foundation. Events continue in 2024 with: Running with the Bulls: A Night in Spain on Sunday, Jan. 21 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Dr. Gary Paul Swank Memorial Scholarship and the Foundation for Palm Beach State College; Club Carnival Mardi Gras on Sunday, Feb. 4 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Connections Education Center of the Palm Beaches (be sure to wear Mardi Gras colors of purple, green and gold and bring your favorite mask!); Bourbon, BBQ and Blues on Sunday, Feb. 18 at 4 p.m. benefiting the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association Scholarship Fund; Throwback to the ’70s on Sunday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m., benefiting the Cancer Alliance (wear your favorite bell-bottom jeans, hippie dresses, ’70s wigs and dancing shoes); Street Food: Cultures of Asia on Sunday, March 10 at 5 p.m., benefiting the Hanley Foundation; She Feasts: A Swank Table Farm Party Celebrating Women Chefs on Sunday, March 24 at 5 p.m., benefiting Spring of Hope; the 13th Annual Vêtu de Blanc: The White Party on Sunday, April 7 at 5 p.m., benefiting the West Palm Beach Library Foundation (come dressed in white and bring candlesticks, candelabras, votives in glass and/or any other candle holder to make the evening sparkle!); and Cooking with Cannabis on Sunday, April 21 at 5 p.m., benefiting Path to College (Swank Farm is a Florida-licensed hemp grower, and the hemp tea is not to be missed).

Swank Farm is also known for its flourishing Farmer’s Market, a celebration of Florida’s rich agricultural tapestry amidst the picturesque Loxahatchee Groves countryside. Taking place every Saturday through May from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., this complimentary market offers an array of farm-fresh lettuces, vegetables, herbs and wildflower bouquets from Swank Farm. Guests can relish live music and explore a diverse range of exceptional goods from 25 local vendors. Shopping is a joy under Swank Farm’s expansive open-air pole barn, providing a delightful experience regardless of the weather. Ample free parking is readily available, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Whether visitors seek to stock up for the week, savor a breakfast sandwich, or simply enjoy coffee and a pastry, the market offers something for everyone.

Swank Specialty Produce is located at 14311 North Road in Loxahatchee Groves. Find details about all events online at www.swankspecialtyproduce.com.

Wellington Table: The Perfect Cake For Your Wedding Johnson’s Custom Cakes Of Wellington Creates Unique Masterpieces That Will Be A Focal Point Of Any Celebration

By Shannon Anastasio

A wedding is a celebration of love, unity and commitment. Every detail is meticulously planned to create a memorable experience. Among the many elements that contribute to the grandeur of a wedding celebration, the wedding cake stands as a sweet centerpiece that captures the essence of the occasion. It is a symbol of the couple’s journey and sets the tone for the festivities.

Johnson’s Custom Cakes, located here in Wellington, has mastered the art of creating these edible masterpieces that stand as the focal point of any wedding reception.

The wedding cake is steeped in tradition and symbolism. Its multi-tiered structure signifies the layers of the couple’s journey, the shared experiences and the promise of a future together. Traditionally, the act of cutting the cake is a poignant moment, symbolizing the bride and groom’s first joint task as a married couple.

The sweet exchange of cake represents their commitment to provide for one another, and the ensuing shared bite is a promise of mutual support. As the centerpiece of the reception, the wedding cake embodies the essence of the celebration and usually reflects the couple’s unique style and personality.

A wedding cake is more than just a dessert; it is a work of art. Owner Yumi de la Rosa and her team at Johnson’s Custom Cakes invest time, creativity and skill to craft visually stunning confections that leave a lasting impression. From intricate floral arrangements to meticulously hand-painted designs, these cakes are a testament to craftsmanship. Every detail is thoughtfully considered, ensuring that the cake complements the overall theme and décor of the wedding. With the right design, a wedding cake can transform an ordinary space into a fairytale setting.

Among the many bakeries that specialize in creating wedding cakes, Johnson’s Custom Cakes stands out as a true gem. With many years of experience and a passionate team of skilled bakers and designers, they have mastered the art of turning flour, sugar and eggs into edible works of art. This commitment to quality is evident in every cake created — each with careful attention to detail.

One of the key strengths of Johnson’s Custom Cakes is the ability to personalize each creation. The team works closely with couples to understand their vision, ensuring that the cake not only tastes divine but also reflects the couple’s unique style and story. Whether it’s a classic, timeless design or a whimsical, modern creation, Johnson’s Custom Cakes brings dreams to life.

The wedding cake is a sweet masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of the occasion. Its symbolic significance and artistic expression make it an integral part of the celebration, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of all who attend. Johnson’s Custom Cakes, brings a commitment to excellence and a personalized approach, standing as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating these sweet centerpieces that not only satisfy taste buds but also touch hearts, making them an invaluable part of any wedding celebration.

Johnson’s Custom Cakes is located at 9148 Forest Hill Blvd. in the Kobosko’s Crossing shopping plaza. For more information, visit www.johnsonscustomcakes.com or call (561) 422-0303 to set up a personalized wedding cake consultation.