Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Monday, March 6, 2023 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / March 6, 2023Comment
When combined with the wear and tear of the heat and humidity, Boca Raton's Mediterranean Revivalist architecture has given us the preeminent canvas for tile work. Flooring options like hardwood are often poor long-term solutions thanks to our subtropical climate. Beginning with Addison Mizner, tilework has long been infused as part of our cultural expression and nowhere is that truer than the many works of interior and exterior mastery in Boca Raton. For our Ultimate Guide to Home Tile, we researched every kind of tile we could find, listed them all out below, and describe the good and bad behind each. While we don't claim to be contractors, we know a thing or two about homes and are confident in delivering you the best information in The Ultimate Guide to Home Tile Types.
Ceramic
Ceramic Tiles are an affordable and durable solution for residences in the Boca Raton area. These often grouted tiles are easy to clean, come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and finishes, and are relatively low-cost and easy to acquire. On the negative side, ceramic has a higher potential to sustain cracks, and is generally more difficult to self-install as an untrained professional. In addition, the hardness and insulation can leave ceramic tiles cold to the touch and wear down the feet if standing too long. However, these remain among the...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Friday, November 18, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / November 18, 2022Comment
When you live in a resort that people spend thousands to visit, a "staycation" is nearly a daily occurrence. tongue-in-cheek jokes aside, the key to a successful staycation is understanding this is more than a mere "day off," and can be a way to not only enjoy the refreshment that true time off can bring, but reinvigorate your home life all at once! We asked our Realtors, clients, and... maybe took a few days to ourselves to learn what tips we should share on how to get the most from your Boca home staycation. Read on to learn more!
Weigh Your Budget Against Past Out Of Town Vacations
Look at the past few vacations you've taken and where you've spent the money. Even for extreme foodies, the likelihood that most of your funds were spent on transit and lodging is extremely high. Luxury hotels can cost thousands over a weekend, and airfare, while fluctuating often, is never cheaper than a robust trip to the grocery store. While we're not suggesting you have a staycation that spends your budget the same as an out-of-town trip, the added flexibility (and savings) will allow you to do much more in your space than you could abroad.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Friday, November 11, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / November 11, 2022Comment
Boca Raton is privy to a wide number of South Floridian home styles, yet nothing is more synonymous with the beauty of our beachfront city than the name Mizner, and the style he brought to our community. Starting with the landmark year of 1926, Mizner's vision was carried out and influenced the construction of everything from hotels to public buildings, condos, and waterfront mansions. However, Mediterranean Revival isn't the only visage worth noting in Boca Raton. For design and architecture aficionados, we've organized the complete list of prevalent home design styles found around town. Read on and enrich yourself!
Mediterranean Revival
The most prominent of all Boca Raton architectural styles, the Mediterranean Revivalism was spurred by community forerunner Addison Mizner, whose surname is attached to the center of Downtown Boca Raton. Mizner's early designs borrowed more from the sand-swept and balmy tones of the Spanish Renaissance, with more Tuscan and Venetian features, later installed following Mizner's inspiration. Mediterranean Revival architecture is noted for symmetrical front-facing facades, red or auburn tile roofs, arched or circular windows, and open rectangular floorplans.
Where to see Mediterranean Revival Homes In Boca: ...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Friday, October 7, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / October 7, 2022Comment
Boca Raton is synonymous with sunny beaches and high-end luxury. Beyond the numerous, illustrious Boca condos and beach clubs, we've reviewed some of the most sought-after Boca Raton real estate in these 5 ultra-luxury gated communities, representing some of the finest homes in the country.
Sanctuary is a highly exclusive enclave of luxuriant waterfront homes located along the Intracoastal. This quiet, private Boca Raton neighborhood is tucked behind an outcropping of protected mangroves, offering unprecedented privacy to its high-profile residents. Many of The Sanctuary's residents are counted among the global elite, including celebrities, executives, and the ultra-wealthy. Between its geographic location, the mysterious nature of its big-name residents, and the breathtaking homes that dwell within, it's no wonder The Sanctuary is among the most sought-after developments in all of Boca Raton.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Thursday, September 15, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / September 15, 2022Comment
We're sure at this point more than a few readers are saying to themselves: "it's about time!" We have observed the mercurial and meteoric rise of this ever-popular racquet sport over the years, from a niche amongst retirees to the fastest growing sport in the united states. Pickleball has grown from a fun pastime to a near-necessity in new condo and country club construction, and we're here for it! We delved into the history, the development, and the trajectory of this growing game - and asked why it appeals to so many of all ages. Learn more, as we ask... what's the deal with pickleball anyway?
What Is Pickleball?
For many reasons, Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America, more and more a crucial amenity desired by thousands moving to Boca Raton. Pickleball is the middle ground between tennis, badminton, and ping pong. The sport is played on a modified tennis court or badminton court and follows very similar rules to tennis. Unlike tennis, the game is played with a wooden paddle and often, a whiffle ball - although as the sport has grown so has the dedication to pickleball-specific equipment. Learn more about this sporting phenomenon below, and why it holds the spot as one of the fastest risers in the athletic world.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / August 3, 2022Comment
As Boca Raton's most data-driven Realtors, we use our on-the-ground experience and the top-down data we aggrandize to influence our decisions further when aiding our clientele. It's our job to ensure what we see online and what we hear from your guides our hands and helps us lead you to the promised land. Read along for 5 of the most sought-after (and most searched) Boca Raton neighborhoods and find out why!
Boca Pointe is an extremely popular resort-style country club that offers broader access to the community than some of the more exclusive clubs in the area. They feature a year-round social calendar, NO assessments, and an 18-hole championship golf course open to non-residents as well. Their commitment to personal health & wellness continues through their ultra-modern gym, 16 Har-Tru tennis courts, and a recently redesigned clubhouse. Beyond their Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, Boca Pointe is a popular destination for private events such as bar/bat mitzvahs, weddings, and corporate events.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Sunday, July 31, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / July 31, 2022Comment
Florida is a true hotbed of culture, vivacity, and generally high-achieving, energetic people. This is evidenced by our many successful business people, artists, musicians, and yes... athletes. Something about the year-round sun and our place in the world has made the state of Florida one of the best states for young athletes to ascend to stardom. Whether it's simply a question of the population to select from or the lack of a semiannual slog through snow, Florida is responsible for thrusting some of the best athletes the world has ever seen into the limelight. For ten of our favorite legendary Florida-born athletes, read our intriguing list below!
Deion Sanders - Ft. Myers
Primetime! Nobody was louder, prouder, and more electrifying than a prime Deion Sanders. Born in Ft. Myers, Sanders attended college at Florida State University, where he would later be drafted fifth overall in the legendary 1989 NFL draft. In addition to serving as an NFL cornerback, kick returner, and even wide receiver, Deion played part-time as a left and center field for 5 MLB teams across 641 games. To this day, perhaps only Sanders' draftmate, Detroit Lions Running Back Barry Sanders, could claim the title of the most riveting player to ever put on shoulder pads. Today, Deion has wielded his presence as Head Coach of Jackson State University to increase the profile, competitiveness, and ultimately, the funding for both Jackson State and other HBCUs in their conference.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Saturday, July 2, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / July 2, 2022Comment
Nobody can deny the strong metropolitan influence that has invigorated Boca Raton in recent years. Much of this new traffic comes from places like New York, New Jersey, and New England - and the shared adoration for musical theater in its many forms. The tri-county area has long served as a bastion for musical theater big and small, with Tony Award-winning plays such as Hamilton gracing our stages in recent years. From Broadway to Boca Raton, here are some of the best places to catch your favorite musical theater acts in the Boca Raton area!
The Showtime Performing Arts center is a two-story, 125-seat theater that specializes in the enrichment and growth of the arts in Boca Raton. They feature 5 instructional studios including both private and group lessons in dance, vocals, musical instruments, and acting. The hard work and dedication from its wonderful instructional staff are put on display through its Fall-Spring season, with live showings during its September - May season. They offer to perform arts camps every season, even including audition preparation lessons.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Monday, June 20, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / June 20, 2022Comment
When people think of American Cuisine, many will claim the only real contribution to global cuisine found outside of a ballpark menu can be found in a smoker. Yet, despite the omnipresence of this somewhat condescending opinion, America has taken her "melting pot" approach to cuisine, hybridizing a myriad of influences to form regional fare that is both inspired by its immigrants and wholly its own. Aside from BBQ, Americans can claim Soul Food, Cajun Cuisine, Pizza, and the California Mediterranean Diet as only a small example of our adaptation to global flavors. It is in Florida where our 3-sided access and superb Real Estate have attracted some of the most unique flavors in the country, with several distinct Florida foods found here and little elsewhere. Today we take a moment to answer the question: what are the most iconic Florida Foods? Read on to learn what you should try the next time you order up!
Fried Gator Tail
Fried gator tail isn't as widespread and available as one may think. Even some of the prominent fish houses and seafood restaurants in Boca Raton don't carry this Floridian classic. Known for tasting similarly to chicken with a more chewy, less fibrous texture, alligator meat is...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Friday, February 25, 2022 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / February 25, 2022Comment
Boca Raton and South Florida as a whole are renowned for their intercontinental diversity. There are few places in the world where you can find such a blend of communities. From Latin America to Eastern Europe, we're blessed to live in a place that magnetizes so many global flavors, cultures, and perspectives. Thanks to the many influences we've imported over the years, Boca Raton has become a renowned market for international foods. When the endcap at Publix just won't do, and you're looking for something truly extraordinary, try these Boca Raton international markets for the best of the world abroad!
West Boca's Somerset Shops sits just a few blocks west of the turnpike exit on Glades Rd. Within the interior of the shop is this quaint, but well-stocked Russian and Pan-Slavic market. Enjoy the very best of Russian, Polish, Czech, Ukrainian, and even Kosher foods at this longstanding nexus of Eastern European influence. These include canned and preserved goods such as pickles, sauerkraut, and deli meats - in addition to their hot bar offering many favorites for lunch.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Friday, November 26, 2021 at 8:00 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / November 26, 2021Comment
As America's only subtropical climate, Florida has the lone benefit of growing some of the most exotic fruits & vegetables found anywhere in the world. Much like our state plays host to some of the most extreme and distant equitorial invasive species, we also enjoy the upside of such a unique clime - fresh fruits and vegetables! Florida is fortunate to grow fruits with origins in East Asia, The Middle East, Caribbean, Africa, and Latin America. Warm weather climates often play a role in increased biodiversity, so while you're searching for your new Boynton Beach home, be sure to consider venturing out and trying these 5 exotic fruits found almost exclusively in Florida!
Jackfruit
For those who've never seen them, Jackfruit is one of the most alien looking fruits one could imagine, and they might be the heaviest. These harshly spiked dinosaur eggs often far exceed the size and weight of watermelons, and look more like they would be flung from a catapult than eaten at home. Jackfruits are harvested at both young and ripe stages, with the unripe flesh serving as a go-to meat substitute in vegan dishes such as "pulled jackfruit," giving the perfect consistency to match tender shredded meat. When ripe, these goopy yellow pods are the direct source of flavor for Juicy Fruit gum! Be wary when prepping on your own, however, as these delightfully...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 2:19 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / September 21, 2021Comment
Casa D'Angelo
Casa D'Angelo is the flagship brainchild of renowned Chef Angelo Elia's restaurant group, which also includes Angelo Elia's Bakery Bar, and Angelo's Pizza Bar & Tapas. Casa D'Angelo features locations in Boca Raton and Ft. Lauderdale, bringing an old-world flavor to our modern Boca home. Casa D'Angelo's dedication to quality and carefully sourced ingredients begins with the chef's upbringing in Salerno, learning from his mother while watching his father, the local butcher. Enjoy a truly authentic tour of Italy's most spectacular flavors and curated wines at Casa D'Angelo.
Through its flavors and decor, Trattoria Romana brings a truly rustic Italian aesthetic to your dining experience. Trattoria Romana opened its doors in 1993, and has been here to stay as one of Boca Raton's longest-running Italian fine dining establishments. Their prices are surprisingly accommodating considering the quality of the cuisine they provide, with their antipasti bar in particular lending to a wonderful atmosphere for group gatherings and birthdays. Like the romanesque atmosphere they've crafted for their guests, their menu is a fine dining crash course on classic Italian fare.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at 8:55 AMBy Anthony Carriuolo / September 12, 2021Comment
Perhaps no trio says "fine dining" quite like steak, lobster, and red wine. In Boca Raton, where so many of the finer things in life are cultivated, we're blessed to host some of the finest dining and entertainment options anywhere in the world. When you think date night, corporate dinner, swanky party, or simply a night of decadent living, look no further than our very own Caesar Parisi's Top 5 Steakhouses in Boca Raton.
New York Prime is one of the most prestigious steakhouses in Boca Raton. Its classy upper-class vibe welcomes the diner to the ultimate in red meat and red wine. This timeliness combination is cultivated to the fullest extent, with USDA Prime-only beef flanked by superb seafood offerings and the classic sides expected at a high-end steakhouse. NY Prime is currently promoting their Stags' Leap Wine Dinner this upcoming September 19th.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at 7:22 PMBy Anthony Carriuolo / September 8, 2021Comment
We are very lucky to have miles and miles of public beaches here in Boca Raton. Many of us spend every weekend soaking up the rays and swimming with friends and family. However, there are the annoyances of going to the beach like faraway bathrooms, burning the soles of your feet on hot sand, and a general lack of privacy. That’s why many Boca residents enjoy the added luxury of an in-ground pool in their backyards. With all the comforts of your home only steps away, a restful staycation is always within literal reach. Do you have a big patch of grass that looks like it could be your next private grotto? Here are 4 things to consider when buying a pool in Boca Raton!
The Price
We might as well get this out of the way as soon as possible! You may think you can afford a pool, but exactly what kind of pool will it be? You have more to choose from than a simple concrete hole in the ground. On top of the purchase price, you’ll have to factor in the ongoing costs of maintaining your pool, lest your private lagoon turns into the community swamp. Swimming pool builders will be quick to point out that you can choose from fiberglass ($$$$$), concrete ($$$), or vinyl liner ($$). Don’t forget, you’ll also have to take into account the cost of rebuilding your landscape around it!
The Role Of Inclement Weather
For a myriad of reasons, severe weather in Florida can heavily impact your in-ground...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Friday, July 2, 2021 at 6:25 PMBy Anthony Carriuolo / July 2, 2021Comment
We’ve got the beaches, the golf courses, the shopping, but our little leisurely slice of paradise would not be complete without fine dining in Boca Raton. Whether you are looking for the romantic or the Zagat rated, we have the perfect place for your extra special night.
Abe & Louie have often fought and won for the crown of the best steakhouse in Boca. One of two restaurants (the other can be found in Boston), our Zagat-rated Abe & Louie’s offers the classic steak and seafood presented on white linens against a dark backdrop of mahogany paneling. Dinner there will set the scene for a serious meeting, or a romantic evening.
From its dramatic cathedral-esque arched windows to its art-deco-inspired chandeliers, few restaurants have such flair as Lucca. Located in the Boca Raton Resort & Club, reservations are required if you intend to dine as a non-hotel guest (and shorts are not permitted at dinner). Its menu is modern Italian, presenting to the diner a blending of traditional and progressive fare. If only measured by its décor,...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Sunday, June 6, 2021 at 3:41 PMBy Anthony Carriuolo / June 6, 2021Comment
Boca Raton is synonymous with the beautiful shining strands of shoreline, abundantly lush deciduous gardens, and a glamorous lifestyle between it all. Perhaps nowhere is the fusion between our natural environment and luxury lifestyle better than our many waterfront dining options. For those moving to or visiting Boca Raton, we're sure a beautiful waterfront dinner is top of mind after settling in. Whether along our sprawling Intracoastal or right on the beach, here's our Ultimate Guide to Waterfront Dining in Boca Raton.
Boasting over 3,800 sterling Google reviews, JB's on the beach is first on our list for a reason. Though technically a Deerfield Beach location, it's too close and too lauded to omit from our list. Featuring a lovely blue/white nautically styled interior, the beach club vibe is felt in every square foot of JB's. Just a few feet from the beach view is a wooded walkway that takes you right to the sand. For the perfect endcap to a wonderful day on Deerfield Beach, find a spot at JB's.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at 4:08 PMBy Anthony Carriuolo / June 1, 2021Comment
If there's one thing Boca Raton is known for, it's our incredible beaches and waterfront living. As with most seaside communities, seafood in Boca Raton is a big deal. from small fish shacks to the finest dining in Boca, there is an abundance of opportunities to enjoy something special from our waters, and beyond. Here are a small handful of many, many great seafood restaurants in Boca Raton.
Named for the famous beach on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai, the Ke'e grill has been serving fresh seafood to Boca Raton residents since 1998. Don't let their Polynesian inspiration fool you, they have it all covered. Dishes such as their filet medallions, soy-glazed bronzed swordfish, and Bronzino oreganata. Their menu has fine items like these and so much more, with each entry tantalizing the palate.
Luff's Fish House
Luff's Fish House brings the Key West vibe a few hours north to our beautiful Boca Raton community. The indoor/outdoor deck vibe is...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at 2:55 PMBy Anthony Carriuolo / May 8, 2021Comment
When you're a local living in Boca Raton, you know date night has a bit more luster than it may in most other places. Our beautiful city is unmatched by many in ocean access, natural splendor, luxury living, and accessibility. Whether it's a candlelit dinner on the waterfront or a night out with tapas & cocktails, Boca Raton offers a little bit of everything for you and your special someone to enjoy. With year-round sunshine and so much to do, here are a few of the best date night spots in Boca Raton, among many more.
Tanzy cites its inspiration as the coastal towns and rocky shoals that populate the shores of Italy. Tanzy adeptly meshes traditional and classic flavors with a modern flair, avoiding the pitfall of trying too hard to make something new. Located at Mizner Park, Tanzy pairs perfectly with iPic, located adjacently, with gift cards and perks applying to both locations. You won't find a better option for that classic dinner-and-a-movie date night in Boca Raton.
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 9:01 PMBy Anthony Carriuolo / May 6, 2021Comment
Boca Raton may not have the same celebrity luster as Miami Beach, but its shimmering sands and elegant, winding neighborhoods make it a go-to destination for the rich, famous, and influential. Not all of the rich and famous wish for the loud glamor and big city rush of Miami, settling for similarly bustling but much more manageable areas like Ft. Lauderdale and Boca Raton. For those without a secluded Star Island manse, or a high-rise penthouse overlooking Biscayne Bay, there is the immeasurable luxury of the refined Boca Raton Real Estate market. Here are 5 of the most notable celebrities who call Boca Raton home.
JOZY ALTIDORE
Jozy Altidore is another local legend who's seen their reach extend from our beautiful Boca Raton neighborhoods to the global stage. Getting his feet wet (or grassy) during his childhood in our town. Born to a family of Haitian immigrants, Altidore's first professional goal came at age 16, well in advance of his high school diploma. Since then, Altidore has represented Boca Raton, South Florida, and our great nation in multiple FIFA World Cups.
Adam Sandler
Adam Sandler had one of the greatest runs in comedy film of all time, beginning with his golden...
Posted by Anthony Carriuolo on Thursday, April 22, 2021 at 6:34 PMBy Anthony Carriuolo / April 22, 2021Comment
Boca Raton used to be a sleepy seaside town, but these days it seems as if the world comes to us. In years past, Boca Raton restaurants used to be good, but conventional. Now, nearly every conceivable kind of cuisine can be found here or in the greater South Florida area from every inhabited continent. Here is where you can find restaurants opening in Boca Raton!
Fresh off his star-making run in Fort Lauderdale, Chef Danny Kou of Lima Peru, has set up shop on his second South Florida location right here in Boca Raton! Its locale is modest, inside an unassuming shopping plaza off of Federal Highway. However, inside, a master chef is at work bringing a special kind of vitality that earns this venue a place at the top of any Boca Raton restaurant guide. Chef Kou is a former protégé of famed Chef Gaston Acurio. With dishes like jumbo scallops in passion fruit-black bean sauces and cocktails named “Mad About You” (Japanese whisky, yuzu, tangerine, lemongrass, Polynesian bitter), Kousine is a must-visit for the adventurous gourmand.