Captain Charlie's Reef Grill - where seafood sings in Juno Beach

Captain Charlie’s Reef Grill

12846 US Hwy 1

Juno Beach, FL 33408  (near the split in the road)

Lunch: Monday- Saturday 11:30 A.M.- 3 P.M.

Dinner: Sunday – 5-9:30 p.m.

Dinner: Monday-Friday 5-10 p.m.

561-624-9924

By Jane Feehan

Captain Charlie’s Reef Grill – known to most as “the Reef” - tops many lists for best seafood in the area. The focus is on fresh food, great wines and a convivial atmosphere generated by owner Ross Mathison.

Reef Grill

Ross knows fish. His menu features lobster, clams, shrimp, and fresh fish every day that’s grilled, blackened, sautéed, broiled or fried. The Reef also serves up grouper cheeks, the most coveted part of that fish - excellent. Panko fried scallops rank as some of the best I’ve eaten. Throw in a few of Ross’s creative touches such as mixed vegetable garlic cream, citrus vinaigrette, spicy marinara, or blueberry teriyaki and - presto – the seafood almost sings. And about that housemade ice cream: it's unmatched in South Florida. 

His wine inventory may also be unmatched. Ross Mathison ranks second among purveyors of wine in Palm Beach County, just behind the Breakers Hotel.

Sit at the bar to watch cooks in the open kitchen and, if Ross is there, engage in some lively conversation that may include food prep secrets, wine histories and his world travels. Or, rub elbows with sports greats or some very interesting locals. No cell phone zombies here. One thing is certain, no one is rushed from their seat at the bar – and that’s a good thing. Casual, unpretentious atmosphere. Service: good. Expect a wait after 6 p.m. Copyright © 2019. Jane Feehan. All rights reserved.

Tags: Seafood restaurants Juno Beach, grouper cheeks, Jupiter, Florida, casual dining, best seafood Juno Beach, Reef Grill Juno