Boca Raton’s culinary scene has never been more exciting. Over the past year, a wave of ambitious restaurateurs has transformed the city’s dining landscape, bringing everything from intimate wine bars to sprawling waterfront eateries. Whether you’re a longtime resident tired of the usual spots or a visitor looking to eat like a local, these newly opened restaurants deserve a spot on your must-try list.
Meridian on Mizner
Tucked into Mizner Park’s revitalized east wing, Meridian has quickly become the reservation everyone’s trying to score. Chef Isabella Cortez, formerly of Miami’s acclaimed Ariete, brings her Cuban-Mediterranean fusion to Boca with stunning results. The space itself feels like stepping into a Santorini sunset—whitewashed walls, terracotta accents, and an open kitchen that puts the culinary action on full display.
The menu changes seasonally, but don’t miss the wood-fired octopus with chorizo crumbles or the lamb chops with guava glaze. Entrees range from $38 to $65, making it a splurge-worthy destination for special occasions. The cocktail program is equally impressive, with house-made syrups and fresh-pressed juices elevating classics.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: Date nights, celebrations, foodie adventures
Koi Garden
Asian fusion gets a fresh interpretation at Koi Garden, located in the newly developed Uptown Boca plaza. The restaurant combines Japanese precision with Southeast Asian bold flavors, resulting in dishes that feel both familiar and surprising. The interior features a living wall of tropical plants, koi ponds visible through glass floor panels, and private tatami rooms for groups.
Start with the tuna tartare tacos—crispy wonton shells filled with spicy ahi and avocado mousse. The robata grill section offers everything from miso-glazed black cod to wagyu beef skewers. For a showstopper, order the Dragon Roll Deluxe, a massive creation meant for sharing that arrives tableside with theatrical presentation.
Price Range: $$$
Best For: Group dinners, Instagram-worthy meals, business entertaining
Provisions & Pour
Farm-to-table dining meets Southern hospitality at this charming spot on East Palmetto Park Road. Owners Jake and Miranda Chen left corporate careers in New York to pursue their dream of opening a restaurant that celebrates local ingredients. They’ve partnered with farms in Homestead and the Redlands, and the menu reflects whatever’s freshest that week.
The fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese are non-negotiable starters. Mains like the braised short rib with stone-ground grits and the pan-seared snapper with citrus beurre blanc showcase simple ingredients prepared with care. The beverage program focuses on small-batch bourbons and craft beers from Florida breweries.
Price Range: $$
Best For: Casual dinners, brunch, supporting local
Onda Seafood Kitchen
Boca’s waterfront dining scene gained a serious contender when Onda opened on the Intracoastal last fall. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer unobstructed water views, and the outdoor deck is the place to be at sunset. The menu leans heavily on sustainable seafood, with the kitchen receiving daily deliveries from local fishermen.
The raw bar is exceptional—oysters from both coasts, stone crab claws (in season), and a ceviche trio that rotates based on the catch. Cooked preparations include a memorable whole branzino and lobster linguine that’s rich without being heavy. Expect to spend $60-80 per person for a full dinner with drinks.
Price Range: $$$$
Best For: Waterfront dining, seafood lovers, sunset cocktails
Little Fig Café
Not every memorable meal needs to break the bank. Little Fig Café brings Mediterranean street food to a casual, counter-service setting in the Royal Palm Place shopping center. The Lebanese-Israeli owners have created a menu of shareable mezze, hearty pitas, and grain bowls that satisfy without the formality.
The falafel is made fresh throughout the day and served crispy and herb-forward. Build-your-own bowls let you choose from proteins like shawarma chicken, lamb kofta, or marinated tofu, piled over rice or greens with an array of house-made sauces. Most items clock in under $15, making it perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
Price Range: $
Best For: Quick lunch, healthy eating, budget-friendly
The Verdict
Boca Raton’s restaurant renaissance shows no signs of slowing down. From waterfront luxury to neighborhood gems, the city now offers legitimate competition to Miami and Fort Lauderdale’s dining scenes. These new additions prove that great food doesn’t require a drive down I-95—sometimes the best meal is right in your backyard.
Have you tried any of these new spots? Tag us on social media and let us know your favorites. And keep checking back—with several more openings announced for spring 2026, we’ll be updating this list regularly.
Prices and menus subject to change. Reservations recommended for Meridian on Mizner and Onda Seafood Kitchen.