Fodor's Expert Review Royal Palms

This class act appeals to a casual, suave crowd, many of them regulars, who appreciate its consistent quality, efficient service, soothing seaside setting, top-notch entertainment, and surprisingly reasonable prices. The space is cannily divided into four areas, each with its own look and feel, including private beach cabanas (no extra charge). The kitchen gives its perfectly prepared, familiar items just enough twist to satisfy jaded palates: calamari is fried in arborio rice batter with jalapeño aioli while bacon-wrapped scallops swim between cauliflower puree and parsley oil. Prima is the dinner-only section, open Tuesday–Saturday nights; it now offers inventive tacos and tapas. The Royal Palms menu offers more casual, inexpensive fare at lunch, when it exudes a soigné beach bar ambience. Dance the calories off to the estimable reggae, calypso, and soca sounds of Coco Red, then adjourn to the cozy lounge for an aged rum or single malt.