5 Underrated West Palm Beach, Florida Restaurants that Are Absolutely Worth Trying

West Palm Beach is often associated with the glamour of neighboring Palm Beach, known for its upscale dining and chic nightlife along Clematis Street. However, the city’s true culinary identity is found in its diverse neighborhoods, where a vibrant tapestry of flavors awaits those willing to explore.

Beyond the waterfront hotspots, you’ll discover authentic family-owned restaurants serving everything from classic Cuban comfort food to genuine Italian fare. Here are five underrated restaurants in West Palm Beach that locals love.

1. Havana

A vibrant and bustling institution, Havana Restaurant is a go-to for authentic Cuban food, 24 hours a day. The main draw is the walk-up window (the “ventanita”), where you can grab a potent cafecito and a fresh pastelito any time. The main dining room serves hearty and affordable Cuban classics like Ropa Vieja, Lechon Asado, and some of the best Cuban sandwiches in South Florida. It’s a loud, lively, and essential West Palm Beach experience.

2. Howley’s Restaurant

A retro diner that has been serving West Palm Beach since 1950, Howley’s is a beloved local landmark. The vintage decor and old-school vibe are authentic, but the menu is a modern take on diner classics, using fresh, often locally sourced ingredients. From creative pancakes and hearty omelets to excellent burgers and daily blue-plate specials, the food is pure comfort. It’s a quirky, unpretentious spot with a ton of character.

3. Aioli

Tucked away in a quiet downtown-adjacent neighborhood, Aioli is a gourmet market and lunch spot that feels like a hidden secret. Chef Michael Hackman crafts a daily-changing menu of incredible sandwiches, creative salads, and delectable baked goods. The ingredients are always fresh and high-quality, and the flavor combinations are inspired. It’s a daytime-only spot that draws a loyal crowd of locals for its exceptional quality and charming atmosphere.

4. Agora Mediterranean Kitchen

For a true taste of Turkey, Agora offers an authentic and delicious dining experience. This family-run restaurant is warm and inviting, with a menu full of classic Turkish dishes. Start with an assortment of meze like hummus and baba ghanoush, served with puffy, warm bread. For the main course, the grilled kebabs are tender and perfectly seasoned. It’s a cozy and flavorful escape from the usual dining scene.

5. La Sirena

Hiding in plain sight, La Sirena is an elegant, old-world Italian restaurant that has been a local favorite for decades. While it may look unassuming from the outside, inside you’ll find a classic fine-dining experience with impeccable service and a menu of expertly prepared Italian-American dishes. It’s a place for special occasions, where classics like Veal Parmigiana and house-made pastas are executed to perfection. It’s a timeless classic beloved by those in the know.