Jupiter’s - New To Town

STORY BY JAN NORRIS

Residents returning for the season will find a few new restaurants to check out.

Ara is the product of Steven Fondu, whose former link to restaurants was at Stage, in Gardens, Pushkar Marathe’s ode to his Indian and American cultures. Fondu served as general manager there.

At Ara, set in the old Crosby’s space along the railroad tracks, he has brought in chef Kayla Casale from California’s acclaimed French Laundry to serve an international menu rooted in the southern Mediterranean.

Entrees include the ravioli stuffed with eggplant; roast chicken or salmon is served with quinoafennel combination. A potato stuffed mushroom accompanies the wagyu strip.

Pastry chef Van Nguyen, also from the French Laundry, prepares specials such as chocolate torte and decontructed tiramisu.

For now it’s dinner only, Tuesday through Sunday. 1406 Cypress Dr., Jupiter FL. Phone (561) 7305138; Arajupiter.com.

Hap and Hooch is a casual spot described as an “upscale dive bar,” that features craft beers and creative cocktails. It opened mid summer in the former Surf Taco in the Bluff’s Plaza.

Smashburgers, street nachos, BBQ rice bowls and a Friday night fish fry are on the menu. The casual spot also has a kid’s menu, and specials. Long happy hours are worth noting.

The space is small; parties of six or more cannot be accommodated at one table. Tuesday-Thursday, 3-10 p.m.; Friday-Sunday, noon to 10 p.m.

4050 U.S. Highway 1, Jupiter, FL. Phone (561) 320-1182; hapandhooch.com.