Discovering Asian-Inspired Gems in The Palm Beaches

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. The Palm Beaches, Florida, offers a variety of experiences that honor this vibrant heritage. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this one-day itinerary highlights some of the best Asian-inspired attractions in the area, providing a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and nature.

Morning: Serenity and Art

The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Address: 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach, FL 33446

Phone Number: (561) 233-1363

Start your day with a visit to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach. This serene destination offers beautifully manicured gardens, traditional Japanese architecture, and rotating exhibits that showcase Japanese art and culture. Stroll through the tranquil gardens, explore the museum’s exhibits, and take part in a traditional tea ceremony.

This May, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with several fun vents.

The zen oasis is showcasing a plethora of adult and family-friendly programming, as well as two new art exhibits including the doll-centric Musha-Ningyō: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit and hapa.me, which features powerful portraits of Americans who self-identify as being part Asian or Pacific Islander.

Throughout May, the museum is rolling out a list of cultural endeavors, from introspective garden walks to after-hours revelry and taiko drumming at Sunset Stroll.

For more information on May events, visit morikami.org/event-calendar.

Midday: Culinary Delights

Lunch at Le Colonial

Address: 601 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483

Phone Number: (561) 566-1800

For lunch, make your way to Le Colonial in Delray Beach, a refined French-Vietnamese restaurant that blends the elegance of French cuisine with the vibrant flavors of Vietnam. Savor dishes like pork ribs, crispy egg noodles, and the spicy shrimp stir-fry in a setting that transports you to another era.

Le Colonial is located on Atlantic Avenue, a buzzing street with several shops, boutiques, bars, and restaurants.

Afternoon: Art and Wildlife

Norton Museum of Art

Address: 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Phone Number: (561) 832-5196

After lunch, visit the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach. The museum’s impressive Chinese art collection includes ancient artifacts, ceramics, and contemporary pieces. Besides Chinese Art, this cultural treasure is also home to American, European, and Contemporary art collections.

The museum hosts a variety of adults-only and kid-friendly events. Check out their upcoming events and programs here.

Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society

Address: 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33405

Phone Number: (561) 547-9453

Next, spend your afternoon at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society, home to majestic Malayan tigers. These endangered animals are a symbol of the diverse wildlife of Southeast Asia and highlight the importance of conservation efforts. The zoo offers educational programs that provide deeper insight into the lives and habitats of these incredible creatures.

Besides tigers, the Zoo is home to hundreds of other animals on 23 shaded tropical acres, including Mexican spider monkeys, jaguars, koalas, and more! You’ll get closer to the animals than you would at most zoos.

Every visit to Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society saves animals in the wild.

Evening: Fine Dining

Dinner at Echo or Blackbird Modern Asian

Address: 230A Sunrise Ave., Palm Beach, FL 33480

Phone Number: (855) 866-3795

End your day with dinner at one of two exceptional Asian restaurants. Echo in Palm Beach offers a diverse menu featuring flavors from China, Japan, Thailand, Korea, and Vietnam complemented by an outstanding selection of cocktails, beers, and wines.

Enjoy sake and fresh sushi in the garden dotted with lanterns, or gather on the front terrace or dining room.

Address: 1511 N Old Dixie Hwy, Jupiter, FL 33469

Phone Number: (561) 589-7505

Alternatively, visit Blackbird Modern Asian in Jupiter for innovative dishes that blend traditional Asian flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. Try the brisket bao bun, the lobster wonton cones, the orange chicken, or their pad Thai. Make sure you order one of their signature cocktails, such as The Blackbird, prepared with vodka, amaro Lucano, chai tea, cold brew coffee, vanilla cream, activated charcoal, and a chocolate fortune cookie.

AAPI Heritage Month is a wonderful opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich cultural tapestry of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The Palm Beaches offer a variety of experiences that allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and flavors of Asia. Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month by exploring these wonderful destinations and gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural contributions that enrich our community!