Jan Norris: Food and Florida

A new upscale Tex-Mex eatery, Uncle Julio’s, opens in Boca’s Mizner Park next Tuesday. It began in Dallas in 1986 – this is their 14th restaurant but first in Florida.

The menu features a number of common items such as tacos al carbon, flautas and enchiladas, but has the quirks such as fresh ceviche; marinated, grilled frogs’ legs and mesquite-grilled quail. A grilled salmon is on their heart-healthy menu that features a few choices certified as heart-friendly by the Dallas Medical City Heart Institute. Soups change daily and there are numerous salad and side choices.

The enticing dessert menu features a lemon-orange flan and one of my personal favorites, churros (donut-like sticks).

Drink choices include a custom Margarita — choose from one of 15 tequilas and numerous flavors, or go with a signature Swirl — a frozen Margarita swirled with house-made sangria. A moderate beer list and full bar are also available.

There’s a kid’s menu, a take-out menu and a weekend brunch egg menu as well.

For lunch or diner, diners can eat inside at the bar, booths or tables in the hacienda-style dining rooms, or choose the outdoor patio. For large parties, you can call ahead to be added to their wait list.

Check back here; I’m going to a preview lunch and will tell you what I think.

Uncle Julio’s

• 449 Plaza Real (Mizner Park) Boca Raton
• Phone: 561-300-3530; www.UncleJulios.com
• Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, to 11:30 p.m.
• Brunch: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Thai Jo now open in CityPlace

Partners behind the Sushi Jo restaurants and the Thai Jo on PGA Boulevard have opened their second Thai Jo in CityPlace. It’s a mix of Thai curries and pad Thai, and the sushi for which the local chain is known. Check out the story about it here.