A well-known corner of West Palm Beach is getting a flavorful facelift, and if you’re familiar with the area, you might find this change especially satisfying. CityPlace is back, not just in name but in energy. One of the most anticipated additions is Eataly, the globally recognized Italian food hall set to open later this year.

The concept is simple but immersive: a destination that combines restaurants, markets, cafés, and curated Italian experiences under one roof. This marks a broader evolution for downtown West Palm that blends cultural influence with economic development. The real estate boom in the area is unmistakable, and projects like this show that hospitality and lifestyle investment are playing a central role in the region’s resurgence (not to mention other welcome additions like The Salty Donut, Maman, and Pura Vida that have hit the area over the past few years).

The Eataly location will sit at the heart of CityPlace, on the grounds once anchored by the Harriet Himmel Theater. For years, the theater stood as a cultural focal point, hosting community events, weddings, and live performances. Its transformation into a modern culinary space marks a shift in how the area is adapting to new forms of gathering and engagement, trading traditional stages for shared tables and market aisles.

This change is personally entertaining because I attended my senior prom here during a different era of CityPlace. Instead of high schoolers in tuxedos and corsages, the space will now welcome crowds interested in truffle tastings, wine pairings, and Neapolitan pizza (but hey, I'm not complaining!).

Beyond the nostalgia, this development signals growth for the local community. It brings new options, more foot traffic, and a revitalized identity for CityPlace that extends beyond traditional retail. As the neighborhood grows, so does its sense of place.

If you live in West Palm or have spent time downtown in the past, how do you feel about these changes? Does Eataly feel like the right fit for the reimagined CityPlace?

Pasta, Prosciutto, and Progress: A Sneak Peek at Eataly's Entrance to Downtown West Palm Beach

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