During Destination Luxury’s trip to the Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival, we had the chance to visit one of West Palm Beach’s French Caribbean fusion hotspots, The Avocado Grill. Known for his ultra-seasonal, eco-conscious cooking, Chef Julien Gremaud has cultivated a network of local farmers, fishermen, and fruit and vegetable growers to supply guests with the freshest sea, field, and farm-to-table fare possible. His flare is truly unique, infusing the most classic French culinary techniques with the bold and playful flavors of the Caribbean, the food is mouth wildly delicious. From the food, vintage french wines, roses, champagnes and craft cocktails created by expert mixologists, the entire experience is nothing short of delectable
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The restaurant spotlights small plates with an artisanal twist, specialty sushi rolls, and a full raw bar. As for why he named his eatery after a single-pitted berry, Gremaud explains avocados have always held a special place in his kitchen. “They are a healthy, South Florida staple that complements the menu’s coastal, farm-to-table cuisine. We are also featuring a unique, indoor grilling experience. It seemed like a perfect pairing for this French Caribbean fusion.”
1. KIWI BASIL MOJITO.
Started my meal with a tropical best selling kiwi basil mojito with a killer ginger guacamole to start. It was a pleasant twist and great way to get the palette going.
2. HAMACHI CRUDO.
Daily house special Hamachi Crudo with strawberries sweet potatoes, pickled cucumber, and Yuzu vinaigrette. The yellowtail was delicate and the addition of the strawberries made this very Caribbean style island fare.
3. DUCK CONFIT TACOS.
Duck tacos with a compressed pineapple, creamy ginger sauce, cabbage slaw and tomatillo salsa. It brings back the ginger theme from the first bite of the ginger guacamole. Chef Julien lets herbs and garlic work in with the duck fat for three hours. He said, “it is a Mexican dish with a French take.” This duck is like a classic take on French Caribbean confit with a taco being the vehicle into your stomach. It’s a must try.
4. SEARED SCALLOPS.
This is the seared scallop quinoa cakes, tomato jam, basil pesto, and shaved fennel. This dish reminded me of a scallop wedding cake and every bite was superb. Each layer harmonized with the other creating a bold take on a regular scallop dish. This really brings out the French Caribbean fusion.
5. OCTOPUS.
Octopus with chorizo fingerling potatoes marcona almond (from spain), and smoked paprika aioli soothed my soul. The potatoes and chorizo play a game of hide and seek with one another, fooling your brain and taste buds with each bite. The octopus was prepared to perfection and made the dish balanced and enjoyable. “My favorite thing in the world is octopus prepared simply in a greek style preparation which is usually braised with sherry vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice and fresh oregano,” said Gremaud.
6. FRENCH CARIBBEAN INSPIRED – HANGAR STEAK & SHORT RIB STUFFED JUMBO SHELLS.
Hanger steak with Chimmichuri, squash and braised short rib in a shell with a micro-green salad was the icing on the cake. The pasta shell soaked up the yummy juices of the braised short rib and the goat cheese was divine with its tartness, bringing the whole dish together.
The Avocado Grill is setting a new tone in West Palm Beach. If you ever make it out to that part of town, it is a a must visit, especially if you enjoy French Caribbean inspired food. Between the amazing menu, the hand crafted cocktails, the resident DJ and the live drummers, grab a cocktail, put on your shades and let the good times roll. The Avocado Grill is keeping it fun, cool, and sexy with its French Caribbean fusion and is making some waves in West Palm Beach Florida.
