Boca Raton.

Elite bagel shop a little off the beaten path - everything bagel, double toasted, hollowed out, with butter and cream cheese is the order. Quick breakfast-to-go works too: turkey bacon, egg, and cheese.

A small Boca venue booking mostly top-tier tribute bands - a good birthday outing. Tickets and drinks are reasonably priced, parking is easy. Seats have drink holders; ask the box office for a cushion if you want one.

Intentional, soulful Mediterranean on Glades Rd. The sabich crepe is the sleeper hit and the cappuccinos are bold and perfect - but the smash burger might be the best burger of your life.

Neighborhood pizza shop where the pies disappear faster than parents can cut them - takeout-friendly, so grab two and bring the rest home. The rotating pizza of the month is the move.

A Cuban food truck with a constant line, and it earns it - fresh, generous, and cheap. The chicken empanada and the mamay shake with milk are the orders. Good errand-day stop; even the short line moves.

Comfort Cuban close to home, prepared with care and genuinely nice service. The classics are the move; portions can run modest, so order the extra side of plantains. The steak is shockingly huge - sweet-tangy potatoes alongside.

The poke pick in Boca - fresh fish, clean tropical room, right by Mizner, and the sushi rice isn't over-vinegared. Ownership changed recently and the kitchen is still on top of it.

Wine-on-tap spot that's a local favorite for happy hour - sit at the bar and order the truffle fries, a cheese board, and a froze. Brunch is as good as dinner. Works for date night or a night out with friends.

The Boca Raton's Beach Club side - not too big, not too small, with three pools and a beautiful beach. Service is what brings people back. Two cautions: check bills nightly for stray charges, and a one-bedroom 'beachside' is not a separate-bedroom suite - book the suite if you want that.

Old-school Boca Italian, always packed - the rack of lamb and the langostinos are the standouts. Free valet, welcoming hostess, and the bar area is a fine wait. It gets noisy; skip the pasta fagioli.

The original Vinny's Cafe owner sold the old spot and opened this - same wraps, same guy, and catering orders come out generous on quantity and quality. Regulars followed him here; that tells you what you need.

The viral Caesar wrap spot lives up to it - the Supreme Caesar wrap is huge and packed with flavor. Quiet little spot, helpful staff, worth every penny.