Nestled away on a discreet back road just off Jensen Beach Boulevard lies a culinary treasure that has quietly been captivating diners from Miami to Cocoa Beach for decades. 11 Maple Street isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience, a hidden gem that has even drawn in celebrities like Celine Dion and Paul Simon, all without ever seeking the limelight.
For Margie and Michael Perrin, 11 Maple Street is more than just a business – it’s their passion project, a labor of love born 27 years ago from a desire to introduce unique and exceptional dining to a tranquil corner of Florida. They’ve cultivated a cozy and romantic ambiance that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Michael Perrin, the restaurant’s chef, playfully dismisses any notion of pretentiousness. “People think we’re high-end and fancy, but we think we’re pretty laid back,” he explains.
Their vision was simple yet bold: to establish a different kind of restaurant, tucked away from the main thoroughfare. Choosing an old house on a less-traveled road was considered unconventional at the time. “Back then, we had this idea to open a different kind of restaurant. We chose this old house off the beaten path, and people thought we were crazy, but we figured we loved what we were doing,” Michael recounts. “And in the end, it has worked for us.” Their gamble paid off handsomely.
The unassuming location belies the national acclaim 11 Maple Street has garnered. About a decade into its operation, the Zagat Survey guide recognized it as one of the top three restaurants on Florida’s east coast, solidifying its place on the culinary map. Further accolades followed, including Florida Trend magazine’s prestigious Golden Spoon Award in 2009, 2011, and 2013 – a distinction unmatched by any other restaurant on the Treasure Coast. Michael Perrin’s culinary expertise has also been acknowledged in the esteemed “Best Chefs of America” book.
A House with History
Before becoming a celebrated dining destination, the 108-year-old building at 11 Maple Street was the cherished home of the Heaton family. Ten Heatons, including eight children who shared the upstairs rooms now repurposed for restaurant storage, filled its walls with life and memories. Even today, the descendants of those eight siblings occasionally return to dine, connecting with their family history within the restaurant’s warm embrace.
“That family lived there for many years. There’s a lot of history in that house,” notes Frank A. Wacha Jr., owner of Kona Beach Cafe nearby, emphasizing the building’s deep roots in the community. Following the Heatons, Wacha himself utilized the 11 Maple Street house as his first real estate office. It was then that fate intervened, bringing a young couple from Colorado into the picture.
The Perrins, now married for 28 years, had spent a year in Breckenridge, Colorado, working in restaurants to fuel their passion for skiing. Seeking a new adventure and a place to establish their own restaurant, they were drawn to Florida’s promise. Initially searching for a waterfront location in Jupiter, they found themselves captivated instead by an abandoned house in Jensen Beach.
“It was in pretty bad shape and down a dirt road, but we liked it,” Michael remembers. “We were totally unprepared for opening our own restaurant, but we jumped in feet first.” Their leap of faith required a year of dedicated work to transform the house. They built a professional kitchen and painstakingly stripped layers of paint to reveal the original pine walls, lending the space a rustic elegance. Michael’s mother, Nita, contributed her artistic touch, decorating the dining room to evoke a unique blend of refined French style and classic Old Florida charm. Finally, on December 12, 1986, 11 Maple Street welcomed its first dinner guests.
The Recipe for Success
From its inception, 11 Maple Street resonated with diners. The 80-seat restaurant quickly became a sought-after reservation, particularly on Valentine’s Day, which remains its busiest day of the year. Throughout the high season, the restaurant is consistently filled with patrons eager to experience its unique offerings.
“It was new and different and everyone wanted to see what we were about,” explains Margie, who continues to be the welcoming face of 11 Maple Street, greeting guests with warmth and genuine hospitality. “No one was cooking the way we cooked,” she adds, highlighting their distinctive culinary approach.
Michael’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles championed by Alice Waters, a pioneering California chef who spearheaded the farm-to-table movement in the 1980s. Waters’ emphasis on organic, fresh, and locally sourced ingredients resonated strongly with Michael.
“I was inspired by ingredients,” Michael states, reflecting on his culinary journey, which was shaped by hands-on experience in restaurant kitchens rather than formal culinary school. “I learned recipes not by writing them down, but by taste and feel and smell. I think it’s the best way to cook.” This intuitive and ingredient-focused approach defines his constantly evolving menu, showcasing local seafood, humanely raised meats, and organic produce.
Alt text: Charming exterior view of 11 Maple Street restaurant in Jensen Beach, Florida, showcasing its historic house setting.
The restaurant’s reputation for exceptional and innovative cuisine extends far beyond Jensen Beach. Word-of-mouth and glowing reviews have drawn diners from across South and Central Florida. The New York Mets baseball team became regular visitors after their Sunday night spring training games in nearby Port St. Lucie. Musical icons like Johnny Mathis and Paul Simon have also graced 11 Maple Street with their presence. Singer Celine Dion, during her visit, specifically requested the intimate round table by the lace-curtain window at the front of the restaurant, seeking a private and romantic dining experience.
For loyal patrons like Bridget Abernethy and her husband, Bruce, 11 Maple Street holds a special significance. Celebrating their first date after the birth of their first son, Ryan, at the restaurant 25 years ago, it has become a cherished venue for special occasions. “It’s a great romantic and intimate setting in this old house with great food that has kept us coming back for many years,” Bridget shares, encapsulating the enduring appeal of 11 Maple Street.
Michael’s culinary explorations continue to evolve, with recent influences from Southern and French cooking subtly weaving their way into the menu. However, the only constant at 11 Maple Street is change. The menu is a dynamic reflection of Michael’s creativity and the freshest seasonal ingredients available.
“Honestly, we just kind of do our own thing,” Margie concludes, capturing the essence of their success. “Good things do happen when you’re passionate about what you do.” 11 Maple Street stands as a testament to their passion, a hidden culinary gem that continues to delight and surprise, one exquisite meal at a time.
