Blown Away by Good Eats

For three or four years we drove US1 through Juno Beach, Florida noticing a small strip mall anchored by an eatery. The Hurricane Cafe caught our attention because the parking lot was always full. I seriously doubted the chiropractic office had that many patients.

I searched Internet sites such as Trip Advisor for customer comments. The Zagat Guide has granted an “Excellent” rating every year since 2004. Chef/proprietor Scott Philip has been featured in Great Chefs of the West. The positive reports made us put the cafe on our“To Do” list. During a January visit Judy, Janis and I headed to Hurricane Cafe for Saturday breakfast. Despite a bit of morning chill we chose an outside table instead of waiting for one inside.

Although numerous offerings sounded tempting my decision was simple – Banana Praline French Toast, thick slices drizzled with caramel sauce, sprinkled with pecans, all topped with sliced bananas. Judy and Janis ordered eggs benedict – one with tomatoes and spinach, one with smoked salmon and fresh hollandaise. We left well satisfied, armed with to go boxes because of the generous servings. We would have another morning savoring our Hurricane breakfast offerings.

Yesterday we needed lunch after 2pm; shopping had created hearty appetites. Judy selected the lobster, corn and spinach quiche served with a generous green salad and bowl of fresh fruit. I opted for the turkey, avocado and smoked bacon wrap with potato salad as my side. The ice tea met my fussy standards, with my glass kept refreshed with ice and tea. Service was extremely expedient and friendly. As hungry as we were we truly appreciated how quickly our meals appeared. Our waitress patiently answered all our questions about menu preparation and offered knowledgeable advice.

We’ve picked a number of salad entrees for future visits. We’re told the pecan crusted chicken salad probably holds most popular status. I’m looking forward to the coconut shrimp salad with mango vinaigrette while Judy plans on trying the Georgia peanut salad.

Dinner specialties include NY strip with gorgonzola and port fries, sautéed macadamia nut crusted basa, sweet chile roasted salmon and portobello, mozzarella veal meatloaf. The casual restaurant has built a devoted following consistently serving fresh and creative food.

Now we know why the parking lot is always filled; we plan to add to the congestion.

When You Go: Hurricane Cafe is located at 14050 US1 just north of Donald Ross Road in Juno Beach, Florida, 561-630-2012. The beach, Loggerhead Park and the Marine Life Center are all within a couple of  blocks of the restaurant. Breakfast service begins at 7am daily, the cafe closes at 9pm.

Hurricane Cafe, Juno Beach, Florida