Something different: Delrayโs thriving cultural scene finds a culinary complement with the arrival of Avant, a collaboration between Society 8 Hospitality Group and Nxt Big Thing. The 4,600-square-foot space, formerly home to SoLita and Mastino, has been reimagined as a hip, inviting ode to the social aspect of diningโand a celebration of art in its many incarnations.
Cool cocktails: The restaurantโs vibe extends to the โShakenโ cocktail menu with 10 names that, when read from start to finish, complete a sentiment about the craft offerings. Highlights among the artfully presented cocktails include: Influence (Bulleit bourbon, blackberry, sage and lemonade) and Comes & Goes (Casa Noble tequila, watermelon, agave, lime and sour).
Picture this: The eclectic array of artworkโincluding a 3-D wall installation made of walnut, metal and mirrorsโechoes New Yorkโs guerrilla art movement of the early 1980s, which helped to inspire the decor. A different Delray artist will be featured each month in the lounge behind the front bar; all local works are for sale.
We are the world: Society 8โs Steven Dapuzzo describes the small plates and entrees as a โgreatest hits menuโ that spans the globe when it comes to influences. Think mini tacos, Korean barbecue short ribs, truffle lobster grilled cheese (right), coffee-rubbed hanger steak, Green Goddess salad (left) and the eggplant stack (a holdover from the SoLita days). โYou want traditional? We have a filet mignon,โ Dapuzzo says. โYou want something fun? Try the charred octopus (in cauliflower puree with tomato pancetta).โ
The last word: โDining has become very mechanical, almost chain-like,โ Dapuzzo says. โWe wanted to give people something to talk about, something that speaks to sociable dining and not about having a quiet tablecloth dinner. Thatโs a thing of the past.โ
Avant
Where: 25 NE Second Ave., Delray Beach
Phone: 561.921.8687
Website: society8.com
