Bistro By The Breakers

Experience how Palm Beach islanders do social dining when you savor a spectacular meal at Henry’s Palm Beach, the newest addition to The Breakers’ restaurant collection.

You might have a “Cheers” moment as you blend into Henry’s congenial crowd, mingling in social-distancing mode at the bistro that launched when establishments reopened amid COVID-19.

Named after Florida pioneer Henry Flagler, who founded The Breakers resort, Henry’s does its namesake proud – offering a menu brimming with choice, creativity and quality in an ambiance of bistro chic with nostalgic touches.

Get a window seat, or sit outside along Royal Poinciana Way, once the island’s main street. Toast to Florida’s stormy history with a Hurricane, an exceptional version of the classic cocktail, featuring light and dark aged Caribbean rum, Chinola, fresh orange and lime, agave and grenadine.

Kick off your meal with the house specialty Oysters on the Half: six fresh oysters topped with frozen margarita mignonette (think frothy margarita dollops). What makes this dish even more special is what they don’t tell you on menu: Each oyster has a dab of Tabasco gel, adding peppery punch.

A standout favorite of Henry’s clientele is also now mine. I’m a sucker for cheese fondue, so I was thrilled to enjoy it as an appetizer for the first time with the Pigs in Pretzel Dough Blanket, served with warm pilsner cheese fondue. The hot dog slices enveloped in a light and not-too-salty pretzel crust were more addictive with every dip of rich but not overbearing fondue.

The Butter Crumb Dover Sole, served with creamy rice grits and tartar sauce, was light and plentiful, while my companion’s Prime NY Strip was cooked precisely as ordered and served with a cascade of cremini mushrooms. The accompanying loaded baked potato brimmed with bacon.

Henry’s desserts are exceptionally generous, but you still won’t leave a bite behind. The Key Lime Pie struck just the right balance of graham cracker crust and whipped cream, but the blueberry compote made this truly a slice of heaven. The Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée, with Marcona almond streusel and fresh berry confiture, is my new favorite way to experience my favorite dessert.

Just like Henry’s has become the island’s favorite new way to dine casual-chic. O

Henry’s Palm Beach is located at 229 Royal Poinciana Way. For more information, call 561-206-1896 or visit henryspalmbeach.com.