This popular new high-end bistro in Palm Beach has been a hit since it opened back in January 2011.

You need to book well in advance if you want to get in to Būccan as it is always busy.  We were lucky to get a couple of places at the bar on a Sunday evening rather than wait for a table.

Chef Clay Conley who grew up in Maine but has worked abroad, has successfully managed to combine a sophisticated bar, lounge and restaurant in to one and it seems to work really well.  The menu changes on a regular basis and offers American cuisine with a sophisticated Asian twist including small plates for those who like sharing and want to try lots of different things.  If you like raw fish and meat you won’t be disappointed with the Sashimi or Spicy Tuna or Steak Tartar.  Hamachi Sashimi with Peruvian Chilies, Mojo and Crispy Lotus Roots is one of Clay’s signature dishes.

Būccan has a nice selection of salads as well as Crispy Calamari and a Meatball Spring Roll.  They serve a great Gnocchi Sausage Bolognese, whipped Ricotta Ravioli and Morel Mushroom Linguini.  The pizzas are excellent as are their selection from the wood-fire grill.  There are plenty of large plates to choose from if you are particularly hungry such as Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Chicken “under a brick” arugula, Yellowtail Snapper, Pork Porterhouse and of course a Wood Grilled Skirt Steak.  Then why not finish off with some Key Lime Pie, Chocolate Torte or Cheesecake!

I was impressed with the good selection of wines by the glass and bottle as well as some French Champagnes and an Italian Prosecco.  You will see wines from France, Italy, Napa Valley, Sonoma, Oregon, Germany, Australia and Chile.  They have a good cocktail list as well as draught and bottled American and Belgian beers.  If Scotch is your thing, they have a nice selection of 12 to 17 year old Scotches and a surprising selection of Teas!

Happy Hour is from 4pm to 7pm Monday to Friday and they have a DJ every Friday night from 9pm to 1am.

Būccan is open Monday to Thursday from 4pm to 11pm (Bar until 1am); Friday from 4pm to 12 midnight (Bar until 1am); Saturday 5pm to 12 midnight (Bar until 1am); Sunday 5pm to 10pm (Bar 12 midnight).

Valet Parking from 5pm, street parking is also available.