Palm Beach Shores may be a small slice of paradise tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Lake Worth Lagoon, but its food scene boasts flavors and experiences worthy of much larger destinations. Whether you’re strolling down Lake Drive, wandering around Inlet Way, or following your nose to hidden spots east of Blue Heron Boulevard, this sun-kissed neighborhood serves up everything from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to sweet breakfast classics. Ready to dine like a local? Here’s your food-lover’s guide to the best restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and more in the Palm Beach Shores neighborhood.
The Standouts: Local Favorites for Every Occasion
Palm Beach Shores offers an array of standout eateries that locals and visitors alike rave about. From date nights to casual lunches, these are must-visits:
- Two Drunken Goats Beach Cantina – Just steps from the sand at 2509 N Ocean Ave, Two Drunken Goats combines laid-back vibes with a festive atmosphere and stellar Tex-Mex. Start with their legendary margaritas, then dive into zesty fish tacos or a massive burrito stuffed with local grouper. Prices are moderate, with entrees around $15-$25.
- Johnny Longboats – Located right next door at 2401 N Ocean Ave, this island favorite delivers classic, boat-to-table seafood in a breezy, tiki-style setting. Think coconut shrimp, blackened mahi sandwiches, or piled-high shrimp baskets. Don’t miss live music most evenings, and enjoy sunset views from their open-air patio.
- The Islander Grill & Tiki Bar – Part of the Palm Beach Shores Resort (181 Ocean Ave), The Islander is a top pick for relaxed dinners or drinks at their poolside Tiki. Standouts include conch fritters, lobster rolls, Caribbean-inspired steaks, and decadent desserts. With happy hour specials and live entertainment, it’s popular for both families and groups.
Café Culture and Breakfast Hot Spots
A day in Palm Beach Shores is best started with a hearty breakfast or a gourmet coffee by the beach:
- Seaside Café – Tucked away inside the historic Palm Beach Shores Resort, this cozy spot is where locals fuel up on fluffy pancakes, omelets, and fresh-pressed juices. Their outdoor terrace is perfect for a leisurely breakfast with ocean breezes. Breakfast entrees range from $10-$16.
- Paradise Coffee – A beloved hidden gem at 2600 N Ocean Dr, Paradise Coffee is known for its artisan brews, fresh pastries, and friendly, neighborhood vibe. Try their cold brew or a specialty latte—locally roasted beans make every cup memorable.
- Café L’Europe Beach Shack (Pop-up) – Occasionally appearing along the south end of Ocean Avenue, this chic pop-up brings European-inspired pastries and espresso to the sand. Look for handmade croissants, fruit tarts, and fresh baguette sandwiches, usually until midday.
Sweet Treats & Bakeries
Palm Beach Shores’ bakery selection is small but mighty, with one name topping every local’s list:
- Makeb’s Bagels & Deli – Situated just across the bridge at 1422 10th St, this spot is well worth a half-mile detour. Known for old-school New York–style bagels, homemade cream cheeses, and overstuffed deli sandwiches, Makeb’s draws early birds, families, and anyone craving a sweet or savory breakfast on the go. Bagels are under $2 and sandwiches around $8-$12.
Bonus tip: For ice cream cravings after a beach day, head to Sloan’s Ice Cream (across the bridge in Riviera Beach), with their colorful, whimsical décor and over-the-top sundaes.
Local Food Trucks & Quick Eats
Palm Beach Shores has embraced the food truck trend, with rotating vendors often parked near civic centers, by Sailfish Marina, or at special events:
- Tropical Buzz Food Truck – Frequently located near 98 Lake Drive on weekends, Tropical Buzz specializes in fresh fruit smoothies, Cuban coffee, and made-to-order pressed sandwiches. Their “Buzz Bowl” with acai, tropical fruit, and house granola hits the spot post-swim.
- Taco Dive – This truck dishes up creative tacos—think Korean beef, fried lobster, or vegan jackfruit—plus hand-cut chips and salsas. Prices hover around $4 per taco, making it easy to sample a few.
Where the Locals Cluster: Great Food Streets & Intersections
While Palm Beach Shores covers less than one square mile, there are a few key streets and intersections where the food action is concentrated:
- Ocean Avenue & N Ocean Blvd – The heartbeat of the neighborhood, home to Two Drunken Goats, Johnny Longboats, and The Islander.
- Lake Drive & Bamboo Road – Popular for weekend food trucks, especially during events or festivals at the Civic Center.
- Near Sailfish Marina (98 Lake Drive) – This area buzzes in the evenings with waterfront dining and food truck pop-ups, perfect for catch-of-the-day plates or picnic-style bites before a sunset stroll.
Food Traditions & Seasonal Flavors
Palm Beach Shores’ food scene is shaped by its coastal location and local traditions:
- Seafood with a View – Nearly every restaurant here sources fish and shellfish directly from the docks. Grouper sandwiches, stone crab claws (in season), and peel-and-eat shrimp are menu staples, often served with tropical fruit salsas.
- Beachside Brunches – Sunday brunch is an institution in Palm Beach Shores, with bottomless mimosas and live steel drum music at The Islander or pop-up Bloody Mary bars at Lakeside events.
- Island Festivals – Look out for food-driven festivals like the annual Taste of Palm Beach Shores, where restaurants and food trucks set up along Ocean Ave, offering sample plates and street eats.
Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path
For those willing to explore, there are a few lesser-known culinary treasures:
- Guakamole’s Mexican Grille – On the edge of Palm Beach Shores at 250 W Blue Heron Blvd, Guakamole’s enchants with homemade tortillas, street corn, and spicy house salsas. Locals love the shrimp ceviche and zesty tacos al pastor.
- Mulligan’s Beach House Bar & Grill – Sitting just west of the main entrance to Palm Beach Shores, this relaxed spot offers casual American fare, great happy hours, and unbeatable views of the marina. Kid-friendly and wallet-friendly.
Taste the Best of Palm Beach Shores
From breezy tiki bars with live music to beachfront breakfast cafés and family-run bakeries, Palm Beach Shores’ dining scene punches far above its weight. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie hunting new flavors or in search of classic comfort food, the neighborhood’s warm hospitality and “flip-flops welcome” spirit make every meal memorable. So next time you’re in Palm Beach Shores, come hungry—this tiny community is big on taste and heart!