Critic's Review
Gastropub is one of those new-fangled words that some believe simple means "over-priced". Perhaps they're right, but The Office is a very unique place.
David Manero has created a visually stimulating place with a menu chock full of interesting items. Yes, its expensive. But the term "Gastropub" includes that the food is a cut above the rest, both in quality and preparation.
Visually, the place is pretty cool. The open-air bar has stools outside and wraps around to form a full bar inside. There's no standing with alcohol outside, so any "scene" has to be inside. The theme was intended to be that of a home office, but with beveled mirrors, leather chairs with cowhide backs and menus with manila envelope tie buttons. There's a bull that greets you at the door.
Your silverware comes in an envelope. The menu is chock full of interesting items that you won't find elsewhere, like Black Truffle dusted popcorn (better than expected), hot and sour chicken drumettes, and truffled Deviled eggs. They serve prime burgers here; the CEO burger includes sweet onion and tomato confit, gorgonzola and gruyere cheeses, arugula and bacon.
Sure, you can get a sirloin with green peppercorn reduction or a skirt steak with salsa verde; but you can also get a meatloaf sandwich or a grilled cheese.
The Office also includes an extensive craft beer list, both on draught and in bottles. For $6-$8 you can sample any number of microbrews; or for $14 they'll mix you one of their special drinks made with fresh ingredients rather then from mixes.
The office is as much a tourist trap as any other in Delray, with gimmicky food at outrageous prices. When it opened it was different and cool; but now it's just a place to get a beer unless you want to lay out $14 for a hot dog.