Stories

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...

It's beach season in Boca Raton! With May more than halfway over, we're expecting balmy nights and sunkissed mornings. Even with a splash of rain here and there, the summer heat brings the best out of South Florida's communitywide commitment to health & fitness. When you live in the shadow of Mizner Park, it's easy to lose track of what we order and the relationship it has with our waistline. After all, we have dozens of incredible restaurants and classy establishments to wine & dine with your favorite people. Did you know you can decode a restaurant menu by understanding the basic implications of menu terminology? Not every menu is likely to have calories cited, especially in more fine-dining settings. With our menu decoder, learn what you need to know before you order, and watch your positive decisions transform your physical outlook! 

The following terms are related to the removal or omission of certain ingredients that may be linked to allergies or lifestyle choices.

Vegan 

All products are completely free of animal-based ingredients, including eggs, dairy, broths, and gelatin, among the more obvious inclusions (or exclusions).

Vegetarian

Vegetarian foods include the use of dairy and eggs but omit meats based on their immediate proximity to animal slaughter. No-kill byproducts do not count.

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Compared to most of the world, the United States of America has a very young history. Almost every major event has been chronicled since the initial foundation of the American Colonies. Without the nebulous origins of ancient civilizations, our foundational tales are not shrouded in myth & legend, do not contain religious underpinnings, and can be found in any major public library. Florida, namely South Florida, is an even younger vestige of this otherwise juvenile country. With nary a century of real development under our belts, the historic sites of Boca Raton are a rare glimpse into a time not too long ago. It was a time when our beautiful Tuscan architecture and signature luxury lifestyle were merely ideas coalesced around the vision of community forbear Addison Mizner. Without further ado, learn more of our Boca Raton history as we review 5 of the oldest sites in Boca Raton!

Spanish Village

Spanish Village sits in an area just a few blocks north of City Hall on Boca Raton Boulevard. Originally built in the 1920s by the Mizner Development Corporation, the company was named for its founder, Addison Mizner once Boca Raton became more of a city than a dream, these modest homes were among the earliest residences in the area. Today, eleven still stand, and despite efforts from the residents, only one is currently protected by historic designation.

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Father's Day is around the corner! Here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate our dad's in the Boca Raton area, from lunch to art, to full-fledged festivals, get ready to spend some quality time with the main man! These 5 events are only a smidge of what's been offered across the tri-county area. Read our Boca Raton Real Estate blog to learn more about where to go and who to see in Boca. Here are 5 Boca area events and experiences to celebrate Dad this upcoming Father's Day!

10TH ANNUAL MIZNER PARK FATHER'S DAY CLASSIC CAR SHOW - BOCA RATON

• Sunday, June 19th, 2022. 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
• Mizner Park - 327 Plaza Real. Boca Raton, FL 33432

Mizner Park is always a great place to bring the family. The shopping, restaurants, and activities are a year-round attraction. This Father's Day, enjoy a midmorning soiree with the whole family as you saunter through beautiful Mizner Park under the cooling shade of the swaying palms. This is the one time this year where vintage American muscle (no, we're not talking about Dad) is on full display in the heart of downtown Boca Raton - a city known for its affinity with German vehicles and electric cars. There will be plenty of giveaways, awards, and a wide range of outstanding achievements in human engineering. We know the whole family will love it!

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Welcome to our next entry in our young but exciting Boca Raton Pet Rescue efforts! As part of our ongoing support to Tri-County Animal Rescue, we've chosen the dogs and cats that have the biggest hurdles to adoption or are at a more advanced age than puppies or kittens. For this June, we've chosen to feature Hubert, a golden brown American Staffordshire Terrier mix with a contagious smile and love for the outdoors. We had such an easy time filming and speaking around Hubert, it was clear to us he's ready and willing to be a part of your family. Do you have a home that fits his needs?

Hubert is vaccinated, neutered, healthy, and strong. All his vitals are in great shape, and this dog is only getting healthier since his time on the streets of Georgia. Hubert is a lover, well-behaved and housebroken. It'll be bittersweet to see him go to a home he so deserves!

Contact the Tri-County Animal Rescue to visit Hubert today!

Alright! Here we go. It's hot as the 9th ring outside and the city is just getting started for Summer! Without further ado, here are some of the most exciting and diverse Boca Raton June Events. As always, we've included the city proper and the surrounding area. The highway is never far. Enjoy your month!

Boca chamber's 52nd annual golf classic

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  When: Friday, June 3rd, 2022 7:00 AM - 2:30 PM
• Where: 501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432

For the 52nd year, The Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce will host its annual golf classic. In a community renowned for its golf & country club real estate, the chamber of commerce spares no expense in providing one of the most enjoyable golf events of the year. The event will include cash prizes, awards, raffles, breakfast, lunch, and even a long drive competition! Polish your clubs and lace-up for what's sure to be a searingly good time on the links.

Boynton Beach food, wine, & brew fest

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If one were to look at a map of the planet and find the equator, they'd find the dividing line that splits not only our hemispheres, but sets the bar for wildlife diversity. It is a known fact that the further from the poles and closer to the equator we reach, the more biodiversity we experience. The frigid climes of the northern and southernmost reaches of our planet don't provided cold-blooded denizens a survivable climate, nor is it optimal for lush plant life. Biologists refer to this concept as the LDG, or Latitudinal Diversity Gradient, and it is the broadest indicator of noted biodiversity patterns on earth. As the southernmost state in the U.S. and a major attractor of foreign business, visitors, and exotic pet owners, Florida is a perfect place to harbor invasive species from Burma to Belize and almost anywhere in between. Learn about 10 of these invasive species and what you should look out for if you encounter one in the wild, or on your doorstep. 

Cane Toad

Outside of the now-notorious Green Iguana, the Cane Toad is one of the most common invasive species in the world. The South & Central American native has long been a commonality at our doorsteps, driveways, front yards, and... everywhere else too.

Caution: Keep your pets away, as when bitten they secrete a poison that is often fatal to animals. They are not dangerous to humans....

The Real Estate profession has long been erroneously maligned as a pure "dog-eat-dog" world with everyone out for themselves. While Realty does afford a greater opportunity than most professions for one to indulge in their... Machiavellian tendencies, it is the way infrastructure of the profession that opens the door for such behavior, rather than a black hole attracting bad actors and unethical professionals. We write this because we are entering an era of unprecedented cooperation, even amongst bitter rivals in premier Real Estate markets. With the abundance of data, the speed of information, and the prominence of social media, it's easy to see why so many otherwise independent Realtors have now found new ways to expand their practice and involve new methods, ideas, and key players for the benefit of all. Yet, even with this newfangled positivity, there are significant challenges our team faces that are as relevant today as ever. Without further ado, here are 5 challenges facing Realtors today!

ONLINE BRANDING

Realtors are expected to communicate, advocate, and fight for the best deal on behalf of their clients. It's what you do outside of these basic expectations that set you apart. It could be your origin, place of...

South Florida is the natural attractant to healthy, fit people. The hot sun and year-round beach weather permit the less-than-shy to spend a remarkable amount of time in bikinis, board shorts, and workout gear. Nowhere (except maybe California) is there a greater presence of athleisure wear than in South Florida, and with its celebrity population, bustling fashion districts, and fitness subculture it's easy to see why. For those of you who struggle to eat breakfast, need a bigger boost in the morning, or simply want to enjoy the decadence of dessert without the guilt, look to the best smoothie and juice bars in Boca Raton for that healthy fix!

PURLife Cafe

Purlife Cafe (formerly known as PurGreens) sits on one of the busiest corners of Mizner Park. The long-serving juice, wrap, and healthy bites cafe has been a staple of Mizner Park's bustle for more than 3 years, with its own high-end, trainer-focused gym on the premises as well. Alongside its terrific food, smoothie, and juice offerings, PurLife has hosted health-focused events and been a place for those living the lifestyle to gather.

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Happy Mother's Day Weekend! Today, we take a moment to share some of our favorite events and local hotspots to enjoy some special downtime with mom. From natural immersion to white-glove dining, we've lined up some of the best events for all ages to celebrate the most special woman in our lives. Read on to learn more!

Mother's Day In Mother Nature - Boca Raton

• Where: Gumbo Limbo Nature Center - 1801 N. Ocean Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33432
• When: Sunday, May 8th. 11 AM  - 12 PM

Celebrate Mother's Day at one of the most beautiful natural destinations in Boca Raton. The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is less than a mile from our Boca Raton Beach Office and has long served as a major source of education, enrichment, and natural connection for Boca Raton residents and visitors alike. This event will include natural crafts, a special outdoor program, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the splendor of South Florida's beauty.

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Welcome to our very first Boca Raton Pet Rescue feature! We visited the delightful Tri-County Animal Rescue, our proud partner and one of the finest nonprofits in the entire country. There we took a moment to meet Beto, a Geman Shepherd/Basset Hound Mix who is looking for the proper home to suit his needs.

Beto is a vaccinated, healthy, well-trained dog, but needs some time to get to know his new family before completely warming up. He's been known to be a bit jumpy around cats and overeager children, but with the right temperament and patience, this incredible, unique dog will bless you with the type of love only our four-legged friend will provide.

In launching our Pet Rescue section via our online blog, our goal will be to find forever homes for the dogs and cats with the greatest difficulty in being adopted. This means we will prioritize adult and senior animals, working backward from those who need the most love and exceptional circumstances. We don't want to make it seem more challenging than it has to be! With just a few moments in Beto's presence, he warmed right up to us and was an absolute joy to be with. 

Contact the Tri-County Animal Rescue to visit Beto today!

Realty can be a crowded profession! Over the years, Champagne & Parisi Agents have carved out a lasting impact in our community through every new client and transaction. We're proud of the relationships we've built and the deals we've made, so when it came time to ask some of our very best about what it took for them to stand out, we came up with this shortlist (among many traits) that have made our team so special over the years.

Find A Niche, But Don't Stick To It

Everyone has an angle and a way to connect with clients - whether it be multilingualism, a property-type specialist, or even an age bracket you're comfortable with. Having your "wheelhouse" is intrinsic to developing repeat business. In the case of our international Realtors, their multilingual nature and familiarity with the immigrant journey have put them in pole position to help others walking in their path. Some Realtors are commercial specialists, others work on the beach, and beyond. It's important to find what you're best at, but don't live and die by your bread and butter. 

Utilize Social Media

There are two primary ways a brokerage like Champagne & Parisi can compete with local brokerages that are five times its size: superior client service, and the embrasure of modern technology. Without the digital...

The 2022nd anniversary of Easter Sunday is here! This April, enjoy the best of family fun, pastel dyes, and sweet treats that come with the celebration of this globally significant holiday. Regardless of your background, our community is open, welcoming, and always eager to share space (and sweets) with our unique community. Read on to learn where some of the best Easter Events in Boca Raton and the surrounding area can be found!

SENSORY-FRIENDLY BUNNY AT THE BOCA TOWN CENTER - BOCA RATON

• When: Sunday, April 3rd 
• Where: Boca Raton Town Center Mall - 6000 Glades Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33431

The Boca Raton Town Center Mall in conjunction with Autism Speaks will be presenting an Easter Bunny experience for the whole family, but with special attention paid to those who may be sensitive to light and sound. This event is sure to spark the imagination and bring bundles of joy to the many children who need holiday experiences that account for their sensory concerns, and as a community, we're always proud to play host to such well-intended events for those who need our support the most.

Easter Brunch at the Addison - Boca Raton...

It's April! And with the first full month of "spring" we can expect heavy rain, hot sun, and lots of fun with family & friends. This month's slate of events offers dozens of exciting and unique opportunities to local residents of all ages. Come one, come all, bring the family, or bring your date. April is here, and we're ready to make it the best month yet!

The M Comedy Open Mic 

• Where: Eat District Healthy Asian Bowls - 1914 Northeast 5th Avenue Boca Raton, FL 33431
• When: Saturday, April 2nd. 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

The Patio at Eat District will be rocking with a comedic open mic hosted by the ladies of the M&M Comedy duo. Come by for clean, delicious pan-Asian food and stay to support your favorite local comics as they ply their trade to a friendly and receptive local audience. Say hi to the comics and enjoy a laugh with dinner!

Dizzy's Live Magic & Mayhem

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Sanborn Square is one of several key shopping and office areas within the broader landscape of Downtown Boca Raton. Residing just beyond Palmetto Park Road's northeast corner, the open space is one of the last untapped areas in the Mizner Park district, and a hotbed of spirited debate ahead of yet another multibuilding complex proposed in its stead. Compson Associates, the firm responsible for the 12 story Tower 155, has received stiff opposition despite the nascent stages of the discussions with the city council.

The Proposed Project in Detail: What We Know

The proposed Aletto Square would sit just southeast of Sanborn Square and will (if approved) include a 93 unit, 12 story apartment complex, a 7 story office and retail building, and an eight story automated parking garage. According to Compson Architects, the need for added luxury apartment space is omnipresent, with lessons learned from the Tower 155 project - namely, the reduction during its build from 170 planned units to 128.

In addition to the major proposals stated above, Aletto Square would feature rooftop pool and dining as part of its luxuriant allure, and satisfy what Compson believes is a major need for Class A office space as part of Boca Raton's drive to lure more high value blue ribbon companies to open branches or even headquarter in Boca Raton.

With so many fleeing lockdown conditions and perverse disincentives for businesses, Compson argues that Aletto Square would further enhance the opportunities in Boca Raton for continued economic growth - while its detractors see otherwise.

protecting the last vestiges of downtown character...

It's St. Patrick's Day week! One of our favorite imported holidays is back for another round after a year orbiting the sun. Thursday, March 17th will mark the spectacular Irish holiday we all have come to love. With so many ways to celebrate the festivities, the Champagne & Parisi blog is here to show you where the locals are planning to be this weekend and through the 17th!

St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival - Delray Beach

• Where: Downtown Atlantic Avenue
• When: Saturday, March 12th, 12 PM - 4 PM

Delray Beach always seems to make the most of Atlantic Avenue's outstanding presence. The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is responsible for what Atlantic Avenue is today, and for unique festivals such as this. A family-friendly atmosphere, there will be plenty for the kids to do - crafts, snacks, community groups, live music, and more. For the parents and adults looking to enjoy St. Patrick's in its truest form, there will be plenty of beer and wine vendors, cocktails, and handheld snacks. The St. Patrick's Day Parade on Delray Beach has been running since 1968, and with 70+ floats entering, we can't wait to find our spot behind the ticker tape.

St. Patrick's Day at The Dubliner - Boca Raton

• Where: The Dubliner -  435 Plaza...

Champagne & Parisi is enormously proud of our growth as a brokerage. Our Realtors go above and beyond getting top dollar for you, always giving back as individuals and as a team. On the heels of our many successes, we're honored to contribute annually to several nonprofits - impacting everything from animal adoption to child safety, foster education, and aid for the elderly. Beyond our monetary partnership, we're not afraid to get our hands dirty, with many of our Realtors dedicating their free time in support of the neediest among us. With so many animal lovers and such a robust dog culture here in Boca Raton, we knew we'd have to share the love with the animals.

As an extension of our desire to further our support for our nonprofit partners, we've reached out and taken the time to learn more about the "who's and the why's - the people and motivations that power these nonprofits we've teamed up with for over a decade. Today, we're honored to feature The Tri-County Animal Rescue, the preeminent animal welfare organization in the Greater Boca Raton area. We sent our Director of Marketing to sit with the founder, Suzi Goldsmith, and members of her team. After learning more about their mission and the people who bring it to life, we're as honored as we've ever been to support this wonderful group.

The Early Days                

Suzi Goldsmith and Jeanette...

We're well into 2022, and with the month of March, we expect rising temperatures, a little rain, and the slow trickle of seasonal tourists returning home. With March, the "endless" summer that is the Florida climate truly takes root, and we're ready for it! These 5 exciting events represent a tiny smidge of all that Boca Raton and the tri-county area will offer, but we're excited to share what we know and what you can do! 

Note: We are not including St. Patrick's Day Events. Check back with our blog for a special St. Patty's event guide!

Spring Break Mini Camp @ the J: (Grades K-5) - Boca Raton

• When: Monday, March 14th - Friday, March 18th 
• Where: Adolph and Rose Levis Jewish Community Center
• Cost: $60 per day, per camper

Over the past few years, we've seen more families choosing short Summer-style camps during lapses in school time. Spring Break is a very different puzzle for families of young children to handle. Rather than the raucous freedom of a young collegian, families living in Boca Raton with students in K-5 need a place to put their children while they work the tail end of the tourism season. For 4 days, visit the JCC and know your children will have a blast while you work, enjoying a full slate of activities such as arts & crafts, sports, games, swimming, and outdoor play.

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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!

Boca Raton Russian & International Market

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.

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