Let’s face it. The bloom is off the rose of online shopping and e-tail giants. Now Palm Beach, Florida has the new Via Bice on Worth Avenue to rekindle the experience of shopping elegant and unique boutiques and pausing for a European aperitif or meal at an authentic Mediterranean restaurant.
Via Bice’s new vibe is the result of a twoyear extensive renovation that includes a rooftop pergola, wrought iron balconies, mosaic tiles and lush potted plants. Sound like Italy’s Amalfi Coast? Smith Architectural Group’s design sought inspiration from the Mediterranean’s most appealing coastal villages. Think Capri, or Ravello. And it’s no surprise that the anchor is Bice Ristorante, the Via’s namesake. A mainstay of Palm Beach residents for over 30 years, Bice off ers Northern Italian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Locals love not only the cuisine, but also the intimacy — a manager who’s been there for the duration, and a Maître d’ who more often than not greets clientele by name. This mainstay is true to its Milan roots, and outdoor dining even accommodates the occasional chill or raindrop, with umbrellas and heaters, as needed.
Bice is the perfect respite after a shopping stroll or spree.
Did Someone Say Shopping?
And not just any shopping. Via Bice boutiques are unique, and in most cases, it’s the owner who greets customers with a warm welcome. Many storefronts are ateliers, where the owner is studying his or her next design off ering. A panoply of art, fashion, interior design and jewelry pleases the casual shopper and the seasoned buyer who is seeking that unique surprise. Shopkeepers even share a motto which proprietor Dionne Schneider of Coastal Girls created: “Come as a guest and leave as a friend.”
Via Bice Roster
CJ Laing: The unique creative collaboration of two business partners who fell madly in love with each other and created the fashion line of their dreams is anchored with unique fabrics and vintage inspired designs.
Coastal Girls: Inspired by owner Dionne Schneider’s world travels, the carefully curated collection of resort wear and accessories refl ects Palm Beach lifestyle while her commitment to hosting regular charitable events echoes Palm Beach’s philanthropic values.
Eye of the Needle: A driving force of the via for over 26 years, owner Karen Golov has made this boutique a staple for locals and favorite ‘go-to’ of Palm Beachers with fashion-forward clothes and accessories
Frances Valentine: The New York-based modern lifestyle brand founded in 2016 by Elyce Arons and Kate and Andy Spade offers shoppers original vintage-modern apparel and accessory designs created to delight and brighten their lives.
J’da Boutique: Owned by Turkish-born Ceyda Avunduk, and featuring a curated collection of clothing, accessories and fine jewelry, all J’da collections are 100% handmade in Turkey and neighboring regions by skillful craftswomen.
Joy West: Specializing in outstanding quality cubic zirconia, set in sterling and gold, Joy’s line of travel jewelry is infamous for its authentic look and feel at a fraction of the price and is perfect for travel.
MAAC London: Founded in London by fashion designer Alnifa and named by combining the initials of the first names of her family, MAAC speaks to a confident fashion-forward woman, offering the perfect balance of minimalism with a modern edge.
Mally Skok Design: Mally Skok is a Palm Beach-based interior and textile design firm specializing in private residences, small commercial projects and hand-painted fabric and wallpaper.
Serenella: A curated mix of leading designer collections from around the globe, including Bottega Veneta, Giambattista Valli and Altuzarra.
Taglialatella: Since 1978, the name Taglialatella has been synonymous with Modern and Contemporary art in New York City and around the world. With emphasis on the Pop Art movement and street art, the Palm Beach gallery is where Dominic Taglialatella can be found sitting at his desk amidst works by Banksy, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Jean Michel Basquiat to name a few.
The strong camaraderie among the boutique owners is infectious. And it includes a philosophy of philanthropy. Many Palm Beach charities partner with the Via Bice boutiques to promote awareness for causes that are important to the community. Meander through this elegant pathway, into a boutique shopping experience as it has always meant to be. Stop to admire the bougainvillea and whimsical floor tiles, then smile at a friendly face in a storefront.
