Savoring the Season: The Definitive Palm Beach Summer Dining Guide
There is a distinct magic to Palm Beach in the summer. As the winter crowds thin, the island transitions into a more relaxed, intimate version of itself. For locals and possible buyers looking to plant roots here, summer is the absolute best time to secure the most coveted tables in town without the seasonal rush.
From waterfront dining to hidden terraces, here is where you need to dine in Palm Beach this summer.
1. The Local Institutional Pick: Būccan
The Vibe: High-energy, sophisticated, and always buzzing.
The Draw: Chef Clay Conley’s legendary small-plates concept remains the epicenter of the island's culinary scene. To cement its status, the 2026 Michelin Guide officially retained Būccan on its Recommended list.
Summer Strategy: Because it’s a favorite among year-round residents, reservations are still highly recommended, but the lively bar area is much more accessible for walk-ins during the summer months.
Must-Order: The short-rib empanadas, seafood pasts or steak tartare.
2. The Polo Enthusiast's Escape: The Polo Room
The Vibe: Busy, glamorous, and equestrian-chic.
The Draw: Nestled on Sunrise Avenue and spearheaded by world-renowned polo player Nacho Figueras, this stylish dinner destination offers an intimate ambiance rich with vintage polo references. It seamlessly blends sport, social life, and high-end evening dining.
Must-Order: The menu features continental cooking with strong Argentinian roots. Lean into the premium raw bar selections, the Wagyu steak, or the black truffle pasta. There is a back bar perfect for cocktails accompanied by the raw bar near the main entrance.
3. The Reimagined Classic: Coco’s at The Vineta Hotel
The Vibe: Al fresco Mediterranean elegance.
The Draw: Anchoring the newly reimagined Vineta Hotel, Coco’s offers a gorgeous indoor-outdoor courtyard setting that feels tucked away from the rest of the world. Helmed by Executive Chef Brian Rodriguez alongside Sebastian Broda (of the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc), the menu is a love letter to the South of France.
Must-Order: The classic Ocean Bass or a leisurely midday Lobster Croque Madame.
4. The Intracoastal Newcomer: Tutto Mare
The Vibe: Coastal chic, overlooking the water.
The Draw: Located at the historic Royal Poinciana Playhouse, this Mediterranean concept from the team behind the Hamptons’ beloved Tutto il Giorno group is Palm Beach’s first and only true Intracoastal waterfront restaurant. The space beautifully preserves the iconic "Venetian Festival" mural from the late 1950s.
Must-Order: Freshly caught local seafood and hand-rolled coastal Italian pastas paired with a crisp white wine as the yachts pass by.
5. The Ultimate Al Fresco Terrace: LoLa 41
The Vibe: Vibrant, global, and highly social.
The Draw: Tucked into the chic White Elephant Palm Beach hotel, LoLa 41 is famous for its stunning courtyard patio terrace. It’s the quintessential spot to enjoy the warm summer breeze under the bistro lights while enjoying a menu inspired by the 41st parallel.
Must-Order: The Portuguese-style Grilled Octopus, an assortment of their signature specialty sushi rolls, and the cult-favorite LoLa Burger served on an English muffin. Their happy hour from 3-6 is one of the best on island.
The Michelin Extension: Just Across the Bridge
If you are willing to cross the bridge into West Palm Beach, the culinary landscape has exploded this summer.
Luxury Market Note: The culinary growth in the area is heavily influencing local real estate values. West Palm Beach recently welcomed Emelina, a 16-seat modern Cuban tasting concept that just secured Palm Beach County’s only Michelin Star.
Living the Palm Beach Lifestyle
The world-class dining scene is just one of the many reasons buyers are choosing to call Palm Beach and Manalapan home year-round. If you are looking to find a permanent estate near the island's best amenities, let's connect.
Jack Elkins | Palm Beaches Luxury Real Estate Agent
Cell: (561) 247 -2165
Email: [email protected] & [email protected]
Palm Beach & Manalapan Real Estate
