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Olio in Downtown Delray Beach Delights Palates

Recently as Amy and I were researching venues for an upcoming event, we came across the established and well-liked restaurant called Olio. It’s off The Ave in Delray Beach, so if you do want to get to the hustle and bustle after dinner, it’s only a block or two away.

We sat down with the General Manager of Olio, Jon Biscardi who helped us plan our event. What many local residents may not know is that Jon has been in the restaurant business locally for years. At one time with The Falcon House, 3rd & 3rd when it was 2/3rds and 32 East to name a few. Below are a few questions we posed to him to share with everyone.

Noreen & Amy:
How long have you been manager at Olio?

Jon:
After having been involved in the industry for several years, it’s nice to find a home here at Olio. I’ve now been here 4 years an really love it!

N&A:
What is your favorite thing about your job?

Jon:
Of course, the people! We have many loyal regulars that come see us often, whether for drinks at the outdoor bar, appetizers or full on dinner.

N&A:
What are your personal favorites on the menu?

Jon:
Too many to choose…  but if I had to pick one I’d say the Teriyaki Salmon. Many diners who wouldn’t usually enjoy a nice piece of Salmon come specifically for our version.

N&A:
Many of our readers are buyers who are moving to the East Delray area. What would you like them to know about your restaurant?

Jon:
First and foremost that we are “off” The Ave away from the traffic and crowds. But we’re close enough so that if someone did want to get there, it’s only a short walk away. We are also a sister restaurant to La Boheme on the Barrier Island closer to the beach on Atlantic Avenue.

N&A:
Is there anything else you’d like people to know?

Jon:
We have two party rooms and can host gatherings. Whether it be a birthday party, business dinner, or fundraiser, we can put something together for those that need it.

N&A:
In your free time – are there East Delray attractions or locations you personally like to frequent?

Jon:
I love our beach! I also enjoy seafood and when I go out to eat will grab a bite at J&J Seafood.

Next time you’re planning a night out, try Olio! You’ll love the food and the people.
You can find them online at:
Contact info and hours as follows:
Phone: (561) 278-6633

Fax: (561) 278-4873

Email: info@oliobistro.com

Olio Hours:

Monday – Sunday: 4pm – 10:30pm

Happy Hour: 4pm – 6:30pm

Address: 42 SE 2nd Avenue
Delray Beach, Florida 33444

Vince Canning Shoes Hosts Delray’s High Heel “Stiletto” Race

Yes, you read that right!  It’s a High Heel Race and it’s taking place during Delray Fashion Week on Friday, January 26th from 5:30-7:30 at Old School Square. This is just prior to the Friday night Free Concert Series.

Vince Canning Shoes – (the fabulous shoe store that has been delighting Atlantic Avenue shoppers fir 60 years this year!) – is host to this annual race to benefit The Achievement Center for Children and Families. The Stiletto Race was created by Vince Canning’s niece LaRonda Denkler to honor Canning’s legacy of giving back – and to celebrate the store’s 60th year on Atlantic Avenue.

This fun lively event/fundraiser benefits at risk children within the Delray Beach Community.  Whether a lone racer or a team of 4 for the relay races, participants are encouraged to get creative with themes. Favorite characters, costumes… if you can think it, create it then bring it!

The categories include:

  • 75 meter dash for women
  • 75 meter dash for men
  • 4 member team relays
  • Runaway Bride
  • Silver Sneaker
  • Sexy Strut

Racers are awarded not only for performance in races but also for most creative shoe. Speaking of awards, the trophies alone are worth the $25 registration fee!

This year promises to be the best event yet with a major venue change to Old School Square where the Friday Free Concert will follow the race.

Pre-Registration is going on now OR come register the evening of Friday, January 19th when Vince Canning will host a pre-registration shoe shopping bonanza in their store. Mark and LaRonda also have a selection of larger sizes for men to borrow for for the race. If you can’t make the in store pre-registration, or online, be sure to register onsite the evening of the 26th beginning at 5:30.

Who’s ready for a crazy fun fundraiser?  If you are not racing, please come cheer the participants on and show your support for a beloved Delray Beach retail icon for 60 years, Vince Canning Shoes as they give back to the kids!For more details, visit: http://delraystilettorace.com/

Fun for Kids: ArtNest in Delray Delights!

ArtNest Delray is a special place where kids – ranging from toddler-aged to pre-teens – can come express themselves via art. The owners have created a welcoming creative environment for kids, who sometimes come with their adults in tow.  They can experience art via various media…. drawing, painting, sculpting, collaging, book making, photography, jewelry making, fashion and more…!

Each month ArtNest offers a theme to build upon, whether it be exploring graffiti or the classics. The kids will not only learn, but they’ll get messy and have tons of fun! ArtNest offers 45 minute classes throughout the week at the end of which the students get to take their masterpieces home. But first, their art is digitally captured to add the “Gallery.”

The owners also offer special 90 minute classes while school is out, offering kids a great outlet and their parents a well-deserved break! The cost is minimal – currently only $20 per 45 minutes at varying times throughout the week and on Sundays. There are also options to purchase classes for a week while school is out, starting at $150.

Looking for a unique present for a birthday or holiday? Gift certificates and other packages are available for purchase. We love that an artistic and creative outlet is offered to Delray Beach’s littlest residents! Exposure to art at such a young age is great for kids and for the community. It will help ensure that the artistic Delray Beach vibe will thrive for generations to come.

For more ideas on where to take the kids in Delray, check out our Family Fun page!

Mmmm Coffee! … Here are Our Picks for Delray Beach Coffee Shops

You want to meet up with a new client, a friend, or a colleague in Downtown Delray…  Or, you just want to get out of the office and work for an hour out in public. Coffee is the common denominator… So, where to go?  Well, when it comes to downtown Delray Beach coffee shops, there are several options. There is the option of a national chain of course. But, what makes our Village by the Sea extra special are the unique places. Depending on what my goal is, I have a few favorites that I’m partial to.

Coffee District

If meeting a client, I pick Coffee District, off The Ave in quaint Pineapple Grove.  This special place recently celebrated ten years and is a bit easier to get to, and offers plenty of parking. This is where one can enjoy a small bite, a cup of tea, or my personal fave –  a Mocha Frap extra crunchy. For those that aren’t coffee drinkers, they are also known locally for their selection of craft beer.

Noreen’s Tips: I like riding my bike to Coffee District with my laptop. When with a client, I also appreciate when the corner table is available – It’s a bit hidden, so I don’t get too distracted when someone we know walks in.

 

Subculture Coffee Roasters

On The Ave, look for SUBCULTURE Coffee Roasters, also a local favorite.  This is where the action is. You are bound to run into anyone and everyone here, so choose it when you want to be social. The shop’s mission is to foster a sense of community and culture. Stop in for a small batch of coffee to take home or enjoy there by the cup.

Noreen’s Tips: This place is open late, some nights until 2:00AM! Their calendar displays several events throughout each month. How fun! … Game night, trunk shows, tastings, music etc. Beer/wine specials accompany most events. On Sunday mornings, enjoy $5 Mimosas 11-2.

 

Capital One Café

Capital One Café is new to the scene in Delray Beach.  Is it a bank? Is it a co-working space? Or is it a coffee shop??  The answer is YES, all of the above.  An interesting concept, at this new gem of a spot you can do your banking, hang out for a cup of Peet’s Coffee, grab a quick snack, or bring your laptop and get some work done out of the office.

Noreen’s Tips: C1C (I just came up with that! 🙂 is quickly becoming a hub for Chamber of Commerce members, small business and community groups to gather and hear about various happenings in and around our community. So, come here to network!

 

The French Bakery

I’d be remiss if I didn’t brag on The French Bakery, off The Avenue on Federal Highway.  What makes this place very unique among Delray Beach coffee shops are their handcrafted breads and pastries. Get ready to drool, because they are prepared in view by French-trained artisans.  Oooo la la!  This is a fantastic spot to pop in for yum gourmet sandwiches and pastries, or just a quick meet up for a nice cup of tea or latte!

Noreen’s Tips: I’ve been known to bring my laptop. And if the weather is great, head here for sure. They have plenty of outside seating where you can find a quiet spot and get some work done.

 

So many great options for Delray Beach coffee shops!  Did I miss any? What are your favorites?