The Sundy House History

The restored historic Sundy House, which is registered with the National Register of Historic Places, was constructed in 1902 for Delray Beach’s first mayor, Mr. John Sundy.  Mr. Sundy came to Delray Beach in 1899 as a superintendent for Flagler’s FEC railroad, when the town was known as a center for pineapple production.  In 1913, Mr. Sundy opened the Sundy Feed and Fertilizer Company, which stayed with the Sundy family for more than sixty years.   Mr. and Mrs. Sundy raised eight children in their home, and Mr. Sundy was reelected as Delray Beach’s mayor for eight terms.

Today, the Sundy House contains an elegant dining establishment, and the Sundy Inn, with beautiful and unique rooms overlooking the lush, botanical Taru Gardens. 

Meals at the Sundy House are served in the Sundy House Restaurant’s three dining rooms; the Star Bar, an intimate space decorated with colorful artwork, and the Mediterranean and Fresco rooms, each offering a unique view of the Taru Gardens, our peaceful ponds, and restful waterfalls.  The Sundy House Restaurant is also available to host private parties, weddings, business meetings and social events.

The tropical Taru Gardens which surround the Sundy House stretch approximately one acre.  The Taru Gardens features more than five hundred species and varieties of plants, from all over the world.  Some of the plants include African Oil Palm, Bay Rum, Allspice, Brazilian Jaboticaba, Guyana Chestnut trees, Miracle Fruit bushes, Korean Velvet grass, and extensive, tranquil bamboo.  Tours of the gardens are conducted at 2:30pm on Tuesday and Thursday.

The Taru Gardens are a registered non-profit location, and school groups and individuals with an interest in botany and gardening are encouraged to contact us.

Welcome!