Buccan to Open Up this Weekend in Palm Beach

Palm Beach food and wine aficionados have been eagerly awaiting the opening of Chef Clay Conley’s new restaurant — Buccan for quite some time now. The time has finally come, as it is expected to open up this Saturday. Located in the former Beach House Bistro location, Buccan will feature a progressive American menu from the former chef of Azul, with inspiration from around the world. Chef will take advantage of ingredients from local farmers (yes, Swank Farms is at the top of his list), and will have your palate dancing for joy with the abundance of small plate menu options and unique flavor combinations.

Chef Clay Conley

The menu will include a few of Clay’s signature items, like the Steak Tartare with black truffle and crispy egg yolk, but most options have been created especially for his debut in the Palm Beach Restaurant scene. Think — Hamachi Sashimi with Peruvian chilies and crispy lotus root salad; Dewey’s Chopped Salad made with kale, pine nuts, currants (an adaptation from his mentor Dewey LoSasso); a Hot Dog Panini with sauerkraut, mustard, gruyere and chili; Squid Ink Orrechiette with sausage, conch, basil, chilies; Nantucket Bay Scallops with guancialle, butternut squash, cider; and Lamb Shank Tagine with raita and eggplant. The stellar wine list was created by Cynthia Betancourt from The Breakers.

Prices will be very reasonable, making it possible to come here once, twice or multiple times per week. Pinchos start at $3, salads range from $10-$12, pasta can be ordered in half or full sizes ($9-$24) and Shellfish Paella is the most expensive item on the menu priced at $38.

In addition to the sumptuous menu and a great wine list, Buccan will offer specialty beers on draft and plans to offer cooking classes, happy hour specials and wine tastings in the near future.

If you’re looking to be one of the first to try this hip, new restaurant that is soon to be the go-to destination in Palm Beach — be sure to make your reservation.

Būccan is located at 350 S County Road, Palm Beach 561-833-3450

Photo from personal collection.