From its beautiful beaches to its notoriously bad drivers, Boca Raton is known for many things, but funky locally-owned restaurants ain’t one of them. Pull into any given Boca strip mall and you’ll be greeted with a sea of chain eateries as far as the eye can see.
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And even though we’re #blessed with multiple Chipotles, Starbucks shops, and McWhatevers, sometimes you get a craving for uniquely Boca eats that you can’t find in every other city across the country. You might think they don’t exist, but if you look hard enough, you can find some amazing local restaurants right in your own backyard.
1. Skip IHOP and try Palm Beach Bagel
IDK about you, but I’ve only been been to IHOP once in my life. It was after a hurricane when there was literally nothing else open (#floridaprobs). Sure, it was cheap and hot and edible, but you can get a much better meal at the same price at Palm Beach Bagel. They’ve got all your breakfast classics, but the Cinnamon Almond Challah French Toast is basically the best thing ever.
2. Skip Subway and try 620 Subs
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If you think a Subway sub is a real sub, you’re missing out, my friend. Seriously, I’m not even sure how their “turkey” can be legally called meat. On the other hand, a sub from 620 is packed with high quality meats, cheeses, and veggies all piled up on a fresh roll. You can get a 6-inch sub, chips, and a drink all for 6 bucks. Subway, who?
3. Skip Panera and try The Seed
You don’t have to be a hipster to check out the The Seed, Boca’s newest hotspot that features locally roasted coffee, fresh fruit smoothies, and raw juices. If you’re hungry, try a locally baked bread or pastry (many of which are vegan and/or gluten-free!). Oh, and don’t forget to snap a pic. The lattes are so pretty you don’t even need a filter.
4. Skip Chik-Fil-A and try Fran’s Chicken Haven
If you’re one of those people who can’t say no to fried chicken, then you need to drop what you’re doing and head over to Fran’s. Save for that time they briefly closed back in 2000 (aka the Dark Ages), Fran’s has been serving up hot and crispy fried chicken since way back in 1964. Follow them on Instagram and you’ll get a free fried Oreo!
5. Skip Chipotle and try Señor Burrito
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Yes, you read that correctly. I’m asking you to skip Chipotle. I know it might feel like you’re cheating on your beloved burrito bowl, but trust me, it’ll be worth it. With quesadillas, burritos, and enchiladas (oh my), Señor Burrito has all your faves – plus free chips and salsa.
6. Skip Pei Wei and try Orient House Express
I’m not gonna lie, Pei Wei’s made-to-order dishes are pretty good, but they don’t do delivery. For those times when you don’t wanna have to drive somewhere, try Orient House Express. From sushi to sesame chicken, they offer all your takeout faves. And the delivery is super fast, which means you’ll be chowing down on beef chow fun in no time.
7. Skip The Cheesecake Factory and try The Rebel House
I have this theory that if The Cheesecake Factory didn’t exist, the American obesity epidemic would disappear. Maybe that’s a bit too optimistic, but instead of loading up on insane portions of mediocre food, check out The Rebel House. The food is fantastic and the menu offers a lil’ something for everyone. #SpoonTip: Try the kimchi fried rice.
So next time you’re hungry, skip the chains and support one of these local Boca restaurants. The food is totally worth having to put up with the world’s worst drivers.