Coffee, sandwiches, wi-fi available at Gizzi’s

Published December 18th, 2007

By Dale M. King
CITY EDITOR

After spending 21 years as food and beverage manager for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Andres Rodrigues wanted to stake a claim on dry land.

This past summer, he opened Gizzi’s Coffee at 2275 S. Federal Highway in Delray Beach.

Unlike traditional coffee spots – small, dark places tucked in the nooks of big cities – Gizzi’s is large and light, with photos of film stars on the wall. A couch and large, stuffed chairs surround a fireplace that is right now decorated for the holidays.

Owner Rodrigues, a native of Spain, has spent his life in the food and wine business. He came to the United States in 1984 and worked on various Royal Caribbean ships. His last assignment was aboard the Voyager of the Seas, and he also served on her sister ship, the Explorer of the Seas.

Gizzi’s, he said, “is my first business venture.” And he is taking strides to make it a success.

He served more than 30 kinds of coffee – 90 percent of which are organic. Gizzi’s has fresh muffins and pastries, breakfast sandwiches and ciabatta bread paninis for lunch.

The owner grinds his own coffee beans, then filters the water twice.

Visitors can also get cold drinks (called “fruitizzies”), and there are special beverages for children. Rodrigues also has pastries for vegans.

Entertainment is offered Thursday through Saturday evenings. Free wi-fi is also available.

Dale M. King can be reached at 561-549-0832 or at dking@bocanews.com.