When Chef Ben Lubin opened The Blind Monk in 2010, he wanted it to be a comfortable neighborhood wine bar. But when he was approached by the luxury hotel AKA West Palm Beach to become its culinary partner, Lubin decided to close his intimate Evernia Street location and take the opportunity to grow.
Blueberry Pancakes
Photos By Jeremy Pelley/The Blind Monk
With more than 2,200 square feet — 1,500 more feet than his old space — Lubin has gone from wine bar to all-day bistro with an expanded dinner menu. While preserving its list of natural wines and its artisanal cheese program, The Blind Monk added a full bar and curated cocktail menu.
“In the search for a culinary partner for AKA West Palm, we specifically sought a restaurant with deep roots in the West Palm Beach community. The Blind Monk naturally stood out as the perfect choice,” says Larry Korman, AKA’s CEO.
Many dishes are crafted for sharing, allowing diners to experience a range of recipes. In addition to offering brunch on the weekends, dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday. Items include Turkey Ricotta Meatballs in a red sauce, Roasted Chicken with potatoes and Sautéed Cobia.
The cocktail menu features drinks with names such as Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, a mixture of Scotch, Fresh Lemon, Simple syrup, Pineapple and Ginger; Fake ID, made with Rye Whiskey, Brandy, Simple syrup, Peychaud’s bitters and Absinthe; and Lipstick On A Pig, made with Small Batch Bourbon, Sherry and Bitters.
“The debut of The Blind Monk at AKA reflects our commitment to crafting memorable experiences for both guests and neighbors,” says Korman.
The Blind Monk is located at 655 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. For more information, visit theblindmonk.com.