We all love to savor the good life with fine food and wine. But finding an independent, locally-owned shop with personalized service from the actual owner is nearly impossible. Gourmetphile in Boca Raton is such a rare find. As the name implies, Gourmetphile is a treasure trove of gourmet delights, under the loving guidance of co-owners Lance and Nicole Goldberg. As Nicole notes, Gourmetphile is “a friendly gathering place where customers learn about, taste, and purchase rare wines and fine foods. We are a family-owned fine wine and gourmet food shoppe with a reputation for over-the-top service and a knowledgeable staff.” After experiencing Gourmetphile myself, I wholeheartedly concur.
Lance and Nicole meticulously source artisan products from around the world (and locally) that you just won’t find at corporate chain stores. The offerings vary by availability and seasonality, but there’s always a rich selection of oils, vinegars, olives, chocolates, caviars, condiments, pastas, nuts, conservas, crackers, snacks, sweets, etc. — plus fine wines and beers. There’s also a “mini gourmet deli,” with artisan cheeses, charcuterie meats, and such sliced to order. Take home a charcuterie plate (meat, cheese, or both) with all the accouterments, or enjoy it right there (inside and outdoor seating) with a nice vino.
And the wine selection here is amazing, with a particular focus on rare boutique wines and limited production. The selection (nearly 1,000) may seem a bit daunting, but fortunately, Lance, a certified Sommelier, is extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and always happy to guide you to the right choice (and some real bargains!).
For the ultimate experience, attend one of Gourmetphile’s weekly Wine Tastings. You get to enjoy various fine wines and foods, but also learn a lot, while socializing with like-minded friends in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Each tasting features a different theme — from Napa to Napoli, Sake to Champagne. Our night featured large-format Italian reds (my favorite!). A Vajra Barbera D’Alba proved the perfect precursor, with its clean, non-oaked fruity notes. Lance then led us through a winemaker’s tour of Italy, explaining the nuances of each vintage, and refilling glasses as needed. Other stops along our tour included a noble Volpaia Chianti Classico; Planeta Cerasuolo Di Vittoria, with subtle minerality reflecting its Sicilian volcanic terroir; a gorgeous Altesino Brunello di Montalcino; and a mighty 2016 Banfi Cum Laude Super Tuscan, a veritable gladiator of a wine. The wine tasting alone is fantastic, but then elevated with delectable food pairings, using Gourmetphile’s own products. Lance’s Pasta Salad (with Urbani tomatoes, truffles, roasted mushrooms, and white truffle balsamic glaze!) is worthy of a fine dining restaurant. Ditto for the Wagyu Beef Bresaola with roasted asparagus. Other delights included Deviled Egg with roasted peppers & caviar, Marcona almonds, and assorted Cheese and Charcuterie offerings, concluding with cherry-filled Italian Chocolate Truffles (yum!). All that for just fifty bucks! This same experience at a restaurant (with tip, tax, and parking) would cost at least twice as much. Plus, attendees also get free covered parking, and a special 20% discount on all in-store purchases that night, including wine!
Gourmetphile also offers customized gift baskets and private tastings for any occasion. In a vast sea of generic corporate monotony, Gourmetphile is a sparkling jewel.
GOURMETPHILE
323 E. Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton, FL
(in the Palmetto Promenade building)
561-757-6208
gourmetphile.com