Delray Beach, FL — Just a few sandy steps from Atlantic Avenue, Drift at the Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa has quickly become one of South Florida’s most stylish seaside dining destinations. Since opening in 2022, the restaurant has made waves for its coastal-inspired interiors, fresh seafood-driven menu, and breezy blend of vacation ease and culinary sophistication.
A Coastal Dining Experience That’s Anything But Typical
Housed within the reimagined Opal Grand Resort, Drift doesn’t feel like your typical hotel restaurant. Instead, it feels like a standalone experience—one that locals and travelers alike are making part of their regular rotation.
From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed into a series of thoughtfully designed spaces. Whether it’s the indoor-outdoor bar, the lush plant-filled lounge, the glass-enclosed dining nooks, or the rooftop deck with sweeping ocean views, each area offers a unique vibe that complements the restaurant’s name. The nautical design—featuring rope accents, textured stone, and soft wood tones—adds an upscale, beachy feel that feels elevated but never overdone.
A Menu That Surprises and Satisfies
Drift’s culinary perspective is simple: fresh, local ingredients presented with creativity and balance. On a recent visit, the meal began with warm skillet focaccia, sprinkled with rosemary and sea salt and served with wild blueberry butter and parmesan fonduta. This sweet and savory pairing set the tone for what was to come.
The pan-roasted mussels, cooked in a broth of stewed tomato, sweet onion, Spanish chorizo, and a hint of chili, arrived next. Rustic yet refined, the dish was perfect for scooping with grilled fettunta, soaking up every last drop.
For mains, the bone-in ribeye was a clear standout. Crusted with rosemary and sea salt, the steak was cooked to perfection 1and plated alongside roasted wild mushrooms, potato gratin, and charred asparagus, all tied together by a rich bordelaise sauce. It was bold, earthy, and beautifully balanced.
In contrast, the pappardelle bolognese offered comfort in the form of broad, house-made noodles layered with a slow-simmered ragù made from veal, pork, and beef. Finished with creamy stracciatella and a dusting of pecorino, it was the kind of dish that’s both soul-warming and elegant.
Cocktails, Wine, and That Ocean Breeze
The beverage program at Drift is equally thoughtful. The 21 Seeds Paloma—a citrus-forward mix of grapefruit, hibiscus tequila, lime, and sparkling pink grapefruit—was floral, refreshing, and the perfect pairing for the mussels. Meanwhile, a classic Espresso Martini rounded out the meal with smooth, creamy energy.
Throughout dinner, our server thoughtfully guided us through a series of wine pairings, each one complementing its dish without overpowering it. A crisp white lifted the seafood, a velvety red grounded the ribeye, and a balanced Italian blend brought out the richness of the pasta. It’s these small details—flavor pairings, pacing, and intuitive service—that elevate the Drift experience from good to memorable.
A Local Favorite with Destination Appeal
Drift is open daily for all-day dining and brunch on Sundays, drawing in both resort guests and locals who know where to find the best seat in town. With its ocean views, crafted cocktails, and coastal-inspired menu, it’s the kind of place where you can stop in after a day at the beach or settle in for a long, celebratory dinner.
More than just a restaurant within a hotel, Drift is a reason to visit the Opal Grand—a destination in its own right that captures the spirit of Delray Beach with every detail, every plate, and every sunset cocktail.
MORE Dining STORIES
Get an inside vue on the latest in luxury. You heard it here first.
