Jupiter’s Evolving Dining Scene - Blackbird Modern Asian
STORY BY JAN NORRIS
PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH PALACE
A bold, modern and big-city design captures diners from the moment they enter Blackbird, the Asian-fusion restaurant that once housed the Jupiter Crab and Shipwreck.
The vision of modern Asian is painted by Kat Solomon of Kat Solomon Designs in West Palm Beach.
A golden bronze 12-foot tall Buddha overlooks the coppery vermillion dining room where a faux cherry tree’s blossoms change colors throughout the night.
The restaurant is one of a number of new upscale international offerings in the area. Opened by the Three Amigos Hospitality Group, it draws from the extensive experience of the partners: Scott Frielich, Angelo Abbenante and Cleve Mash.
All are owners or co-owners in other successful restaurants around the county including Lynora’s, Kapow Noodle Bar, Clematis Social and many others. Together, they opened another locals’ favorite, Papichulo Tacos nearby.
In 2022, they chose Jupiter for this foray into upscale Asian to “bring something fresh to the local dining scene,” Frielich said. “Jupiter wasn’t widely known for ethnic restaurants then, which worked in our favor, allowing us to introduce something unique.”
It was a chance, he said, to introduce an Asian concept into the evolving food culture of the town. The marriage of traditional techniques and modern ingredients and a blending of flavors has proven a success.
expect to see Bangkok street noodles, tuna tartare wonton cones, and hamachi jalapeño, among other dishes on the menu Come November
“We are thrilled with how the Jupiter community has embraced Blackbird Modern Asian,” Frielich said. “Our Jupiter location has a unique charm and energy that’s been incredibly welcoming.”
Chef Tim Nickey has created an innovative menu that draws from several Asian countries and regions. Diners will recognize twists on favorites from Japan, Thailand, China, Korea and Vietnam.
A favorite is the Blackbird spin on General Tso’s Chicken. A subtle infusion of tikka masala, an Indian spice, gives it a fresh remake.
Chinese BBQ Beef Shortribs sell out early in the evening. Guests have raved over the tender, grilled ribs marinated in spices then glazed with a savory sauce.
The presentation of the Peking duck, a three-day production that feeds three easily, almost outshines the meal.
Twisting the traditional foods, Nickey reimagines dishes, coming up with a burntends fried rice, and bone marrow dumplings.
Frielich admits not every dish is a winner. Guests didn’t understand that the classic Shrimp with Lobster Sauce contains no lobster. Other foods, such as sushi, are requested, but at the moment not on the menu.
“We’re always open to considering new ideas based on consumer feedback,” he said.
Twice a year, the menu is refreshed. The owners and staff try about 25 dishes, with only a few deemed good enough for the menu.
In November, guests can expect to see Bangkok street noodles, tuna tartare wonton cones, and hamachi jalapeño, among other dishes on the menu..
New cocktails are coming to the drink menu as well. Confucius Says, served in a Polynesian-style face glass, is a blend of vodka, lychee liqueur, coconut syrup, pineapple juice.
Blackbird is open daily for dinner only.
Happy Hour is from 4-5 daily; the outdoor upper deck bar is open at that time. Entree prices range between $19 and $45, with shareable entrees such as duck or 32-ounce wagyu tomahawk from $95 to $185. Reservations are accepted only for parties of eight or more.
Blackbird
1511 N. Old Dixie Highway, Jupiter, FL 33469
Phone 561-589-7505
Online: www.blackbirdmodernasian.com
