VIBE

When celeb chef Daniel Boulud decided to export his legendary Upper East Side eatery to Palm Beach, New York-native snowbirds, who craved his signature simple-yet-sumptuous dishes while out of town for The Season, rejoiced. So it’s no surprise that the open and vaguely Med-inspired space (think warm ochre tones and an expansive terrace) is perpetually packed with the in-crowd. Chef Zach Bell has added some well-received Southern and international tones to Boulud’s menu, though many favorites from the Manhattan original remain. While the dining room is lovely, the most coveted tables are outdoors in the courtyard of the Brazilian Court Hotel (especially at brunch).

CROWD

A well-heeled mix of ultra-socialites, power brokers, and beautiful people.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

The dress code is smart casual. We’d go with a chic tropical-colored dress and some sassy open-toed heels. Most men wear jackets in the evenings (though it’s not required).

GO HERE WITH

A date; friends; parents; colleagues or clients

WHY WE LIKE IT

It may have opened to lukewarm reviews, but we feel like the kitchen at Café Boulud has really hit its stride–the food is flawless. We’re also fans of the surprisingly unpretentious vibes, the knowledgeable sommelier, and the courtyard terrace. Weekend brunch on the terrace is one of our favorite Palm Beach experiences.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Service can be spotty–we’ve had excellent experiences as well as one or two less-than-stellar visits.

GOOD TO KNOW

Café Boulud also provides room service for The Brazilian Court hotel. If you want an outdoor table, be sure to specify this when you make your reservation (even if staying in the hotel). If you are visiting Palm Beach in the summer, look out for specials like prix fixe dinners.

OTHER LOCATIONS

New York; Miami; Vancouver; London; Beijing; Singapore

CLOSEST COMPS

Café L’Europe (Palm Beach); Lucques (Los Angeles); Maison Boulud (Beijing)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to Palm Beach