Dada, an early 20th-century avant-garde art movement embraced by such notables as Dali and Magritte, was founded on principles of incongruity and irreverence toward “accepted” cultural values. Dada the restaurant, in the heart of downtown Delray’s Arts District, claims that philosophy fits its attitude toward “the accepted norms of South Florida dining.” Well, that’s a stretch, but this place undeniably has “it,” that indescribable but palpable vibe that makes you willing to wait for a table and feel pleased with yourself for doing so.
Dada’s physical surroundings pay homage to art and design, curated as a dissonant compendium of what shouldn’t work together but does. The same can be said of its seasonal menu, comprised of all-natural, ethically sourced ingredients. Pairing chilled Togarashi Seared Tuna with Ponzu, Spicy Mayo, Seaweed, Guacamole along with a plate of Honey BBQ Pork Belly Burnt Ends would make perfect sense to Salvador Dali.
The Romaine Wedge Salad had me at Green Goddess dressing, but the avocado, bacon and toasted breadcrumb garnish completes me. Its most renowned small plate is Dada Dates; everyone mentions them if you say “I’m going to Dada.” Stuffed with black pepper bacon, goat cheese and chorizo, with a crumble of Manchego cheese and drizzle of sherry gastrique, the dates are surprisingly unique. Stay tuned for more on Dada!
