NORTHEAST BY SOUTHEAST Palm Beach’s cultural landscape is changing thanks to a post-pandemic renaissance. BY ERICA CORSANO
he New York Times recently reported on Southern Florida’s major appeal for pandemic-exhausted New Yorkers, and the Northeast’s resulting influx into the area. The result may have caused minor traffic jams for year-round locals, but the trade off is proving to be well worth it. The flow southward has created a higher demand for businesses that are accustomed to catering to people hailing from cities like New York and Boston. The hospitality hybrid of Northeastern efficiency with Sunshine-State laid back vibes is shaping the area’s fashion, hospitality, culinary, arts and entertainment scenes. NYC designer and “King of Pants” Alvin Valley first recognized the trend of Northeasterners, including his clients, traveling to Florida more frequently during the pandemic. In January 2021 he opened an appointment-only, permanent atelier on Palm Beach’s chic Worth Avenue, selling ready-to-wear as well as made-to-order pieces for his clientele. “Palm Beach has taken off beyond my wildest expectations. My personal connection with my clients—as I am often here, fitting and styling them—was an added benefit to my business. I finally came from behind the curtain and am being inspired everyday by my customers,” Valley explains. However, some of the most noticeable imports are in the restaurant realm. New York City cult bistros La Goulue and Le Bilboquet both opened up on the island of Palm Beach. Known as swanky and expensive places to see and be seen, the French hotspots are always bustling with guests. The incredible fare has folks flocking as well. NYC culinary institution La Goulue has charmed food lovers for more than 25 years. Now a Palm Beach treasure, the restaurant dishes out haute cuisine, both classic French dishes and globally-inspired food, created by Michelin-starred executive chef Pascal Sanchez. Indulge in Le Souffle Au Fromage, an award-winning signature dish since 1972: Made with Gruyère, parmesan and white truffle oil, and accompanied by a bright garden salad, this dish is tres magnifique! Located in the ever-so-charming Via Encantada just off shopping hub Worth Avenue, Le Bilboquet also offers French Bistro food in a high-end atmosphere. Unlike its sister
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COURTESY ALVIN VALLEY PALM BEACH
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Fashion icon Alvin Valley, pictured in his new Palm Beach atelier.
