Delray Beach Market: Delray Beach’s Newest To-Do Destination

© All photos courtesy of Delray Beach Market

Delray Beach Market has made big headlines since it opened in April 2021 just off the laid-back town’s Atlantic Avenue. A huge multi-purpose destination, we break it down so you know what to expect and how best to spend your time.

Want a day away from the beach in Delray Beach and still be a part of the action? Look no further than Delray Beach Market, a culinary and events venue measuring 150,000 square feet just off Delray Beach’s famous Atlantic Avenue. While its hulking size officially makes it the biggest food court in Florida, there’s more to do here than eat. With a bright, happy modern tropical décor and a goal of being a meeting place for the community, the market’s sprawling setup also doubles as a music hall, event space, culinary classroom, and more. Here’s how we suggest travelers spend their time at Delray’s newest attraction.

Go Food Stall Hopping

With more than 25 food stalls serving up everything from gourmet ice cream and charcuterie boards to decadent burgers, Delray Beach Market is the perfect place to find a quick bite or to sample your way to a very full belly. The well-curated selection features local flavors from Delray Beach’s favorites restaurants as well as specialty food shops, like Lovelee Bakeshop and Circus Eats (the latter which is exclusively dedicated to serving classic circus-style bites), and even a fishmonger.

Traveler Tip: Wander and feast your eyes on everything before you decide.

Lounge Around

After you’ve grabbed something to nosh on, find yourself a place to sit on the second-floor Mezze. Comfy couches and chairs, both inside and outside, give customers plenty of space to chill and relax. The interior design was created so that big groups could have enough room to spread out and for couples to tuck themselves into a lovely nook for privacy. No matter how many in your party, the large windows and soothing décor feel like an indoor beach day.

Traveler Tip: Sit at one of the outdoor tables with your food and then move over to a comfy couch with your drink.

Sip Libations

Speaking of drinks, once your belly is satisfied, sidle over to Central Bar, a chic cocktail bar, that is – quite literally – the center of attention inside Delray Beach Market. Think creative cocktails served up by mixologists and artisanal beers on tap, along with a full bar for your favorite go-to libation.

Traveler Tip: People-watch from your perch on the bar stool or stop by for free drinks on Ladies’ Nights. Check the calendar.

Get Free Music & Shuttle Service

If you’re at Delray Beach Market by day, feel free to take the shuttle to the beach at no cost. It stops at three locations on the beach, where you can get off and catch the waves. And on weekend nights, enjoy free concerts while sipping those cocktails.

Traveler Tip: If you’re out on the Ave, stop in for a late-night drink and the DJ spinning records late into the night.

Attend Gourmet Events

Delray Beach Market also hosts some very special events. If you’re a foodie keeping up with celebrity chefs, you’re in luck. The upstairs Mezze has a stage kitchen where well-regarded chefs give demonstrations and host special dinners throughout the year. Take in an evening of food talk, wine tasting, or a mixology class, and mingle with the best food folks around. You can also rent the Mezze for your own events.

Traveler Tip: Watch the schedule of events to see when the next master chef might be coming to town.

Surf Nomad Surf Shop

If you are a surfer, you may already know Nomad, south Florida’s iconic surf shop located just north of Delray in Boynton Beach. But did you know that they are opening a Surf Club location at Delray Beach Market? It’s true. There you’ll find apparel, hats, and other Nomad gear, as well as the custom-made surfboards that this shop has been known for since 1968.

Traveler Tip: Not a surfer? They also offer private surf lessons for all ages.

Go Cashless

Delray Beach Market is a cashless facility. Cards and debit cards will get you everything you need.

Traveler Tip: Cardless? You can exchange your cash for tokens at the concierge’s desk.

Where to Stay Delray Sands Resort | Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa | The Atlantic Suites on the Ave