Photo by Christina Arza
In 2020, after five years in Los Angeles — the city where I became a mother and was inspired to start my own brand — I moved Palm Beach to be closer to family. Moving is always an adjustment; but the small town feel of Palm Beach, combined with the cosmopolitan benefits of nearby Miami have endeared me to the area.
I love the European and Mediterranean influences that show up in the architecture and the pace of life, and I’ve been enjoying exploring the art galleries, burgeoning restaurant scene, and beaches that rival the Caribbean.
The Norton Museum: Even if this museum wasn’t down the street from my home it would still be on my list. They have an impressive collection of contemporary art including pieces from Donald Judd and Anselm Keifer. There’s also a lush, subtropical garden with outdoor sculptures that highlights in the indoor/outdoor feel that is so central to Southern Florida.
Pace Gallery: Located in the Royal Poinciana Plaza, this pop up is the ninth world wide location.
LGDR: Formerly Levy Gorvy houses some of the best blue chip artists in the world.
White Cube: Another major player in the art world, this location started out as a pop up in an assuming strip mall has now become a permanent space.
Things to Do
Beaches: One of my favorite things about living in Southern Florida is the close proximity to so many beautiful beaches. From Jupiter to Palm Beach to Delray Beach each one has its own unique characteristics that make them fun to explore.
Lake Trail: This 5.5 mile path is on every Palm Beach travel guide for a reason. You can start The Society of the Four Arts and wrap around the west side of the island. The water views are incredible and you can sense the history of the island through the massive kapok trees and stately homes.
Pan’s Garden: There are several small public parks and gardens throughout Palm Beach and this is one of my favorites. It’s Florida's first all-native botanical garden and aptly named after the bronze statue of Pan of Rohallion at the entrance.
Restaurants & Cafes
La Sirena: A West Palm Beach institution, this family owned business closes for the month of August in true Italian fashion to travel and get inspired. The pastas are delicious and they have a rotating selection of seasonal desserts.
Cafe Boulud: One of my go-to places to take work meetings as it tends to be a bit quieter than Sant Ambroeus during peak season. They also have a really nice weekend brunch.
Piccolo Gelato: Where I get my gelato fix when I’m not in Italy. There is a little courtyard around the the corner with a fountain to sit and relax and pretend you’re in Europe.
Cafe Delamar: All the locals who work along Worth Avenue frequent Cafe Delamar. It’s simple but delicious and perfect for a quick, casual lunch.
Zipitios: Located in Grandview market in West Palm Beach as well as the Greenview Farmer’s Market on Saturdays, they have great shrimp tacos and extra spicy hot sauce.
Shopping
Poncé Berga: Internationally recognized and beloved by some of the leading interior designers and architecture firms, Poncé Berga has made a name for themselves with their curated selection of historical 20th-Century design from France, Italy, Scandinavia, and the United States.
The Real Real: This location recently opened on Worth Avenue and I’m so happy to have a local shop to visit. I love buying vintage and second hand pieces as it feels more sustainable and often times so much more special.
Orchids by Lindsey: Lindsey does the arrangements for a lot of businesses and private homes in the area. She has a really beautiful eye and as well as a nice selection of antique vessels and planters.
