If you’re looking for a dining experience that feels less like a formal reservation and more like an unforgettable gathering at your most creative friend’s home, Dada delivers in every way. It is housed inside the historic Tarrimore House (built in 1924), Dada stands in sharp contrast to the polished, predictable restaurants lining Atlantic Avenue. It’s eclectic without trying too hard, artistic without being pretentious, and undeniably one of the cultural anchors of Delray Beach.
An Atmosphere You Can’t Replicate
Before you even step inside, you’re greeted by the restaurant’s iconic 100-year-old banyan tree, its sprawling branches wrapped in twinkling lights and lanterns. The courtyard feels cinematic—equally suited for a romantic date night, a celebratory dinner, or cocktails that stretch late into the evening.
Inside, the house unfolds into a series of themed rooms filled with rotating local artwork, vintage details, and creaky wooden floors that remind you this building has stories to tell. One room might feature a stone fireplace; another, a whimsical mural (giant ants included). The vibe is unapologetically nonconformist—but also warm and welcoming.
The Food: Creative Comfort
Dada’s menu doesn’t simply revisit classics—it reimagines them. The dishes feel familiar yet inventive, striking a balance between comfort and creativity.
Crispy Cauliflower
A longtime favorite and for good reason. Perfectly cooked with a satisfying crunch, it’s flavorful, craveable, and easily shareable—though you may not want to.
The Starving Artist
This elevated grilled cheese has evolved over time. While longtime fans may miss the tomato soup pairing, the current French onion soup version offers a richer, more savory complement. It’s a different direction—but one that works.
Crab Cakes
Light, well-balanced, and not overloaded with filler, the crab cakes pair beautifully with the accompanying corn for a dish that feels indulgent yet refined.
Cheeseburger
Sometimes the simplest items reveal the most about a kitchen. Dada’s burger is expertly cooked, juicy, and deeply satisfying—proof that creativity and execution can coexist.
Tips for Visiting
Parking: Valet is available, but if you prefer street parking, head a block or two north of Atlantic Avenue to avoid peak congestion.
Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially on weekends. This is no hidden gem—locals know and love it.
Pro Tip: If the restroom line near the bar is long, there’s a second one tucked in the back dining room.
Final Verdict
Dada isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. It’s where history meets artistic edge, where the setting is as memorable as the menu, and where no two visits feel exactly the same. In a city filled with dining options, Dada remains a true Delray staple—creative, spirited, and consistently worth returning to.