The Bar, Club & Music Scene -- Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach has finally gotten quite hip to nightlife and is now lined with sleek and chic restaurants, lounges, and bars that attract the Palm Beach County "in crowd," along with a few random patrons such as Yanni, who has a house nearby. Although it's hardly South Beach or Fort Lauderdale's Las Olas and Riverfront, Atlantic Avenue holds its own as far as a vibrant nightlife is concerned. In Boca Raton, Mizner Park is the nucleus of nightlife, with restaurants masking themselves as nightclubs or, at the very least, sceney bars, such as Gigi's Tavern, 346 Plaza Real (tel. 561/368-4488), and Mark's Mizner Park, 334 Plaza Real (tel. 561/395-0770).
Performing Arts -- For details on upcoming events, check the Boca News or the Sun-Sentinel, or call the Palm Beach County Cultural Council information line at tel. 800/882-ARTS. During business hours, a staffer can give details on current performances. After hours, a recorded message describes the week's events.
The Florida Symphonic Pops, a 70-piece professional orchestra, performs jazz, swing, rock, big-band, and classical music throughout Boca Raton. This musical force has entertained audiences for nearly 50 years. Call tel. 561/393-7677 for a schedule.
Boca's best theater company is the Caldwell Theatre, and it's worth checking out. Located in a strip shopping center at 7873 N. Federal Hwy., this equity showcase does well-known dramas, comedies, classics, off-Broadway hits, and new works throughout the year. Ticket prices are reasonable -- usually $36 to $42. Full-time students with ID will be especially interested in the little-advertised student rush: When available, tickets are sold for $5 if you arrive at least an hour early. Call tel. 561/241-7432 for details.
