The Baccarat Boutique BBar and Lounge in the Miami Design District is a crystal-clear choice for any occasion
Not that we needed any more proof that Miami has arrived — but tucked away on the second floor of the fashion-rich Design District’s Palm Court, you’ll find a world that sparkles at the new Baccarat Boutique BBar and Lounge.
Dripping in crystal and splashed in vibrant colors set to match the District’s artsy vibe, it’s the French crystal maker’s first location of this concept in North America, following its chic introduction earlier this spring in Milan, with plans to open more in the future. You’re greeted by glittering shelves, tables and a bar cart filled with Baccarat’s pretty little things — exquisite tableware, vases, mirrors, and of course, their coveted glassware in sexy silhouettes.
Dusting off their traditional look, this is not your grandmother’s Baccarat where everything must match; instead, everything feels like it’s meant to mingle and ready for a casual night in or hosting an extravagant soiree.
The showstoppers of the space are the chandeliers that dazzle from above, including the peony and olivine hued Zenith chandeliers that were specifically made for the Miami location; adding to the color fest is the vibrant art by young French artist Alexandre Benjamin Navet that dots the walls. The beauty of this experience, everything the light touches is for purchase.
CANDY-COLORED DREAMS
If you can detach your eyes from the baubles, move on to the bar and lounge, where bright chairs that resemble candy-colored jewels line the intimate bar and tables. The ambiance is set for any type of rendezvous that you desire. When the boutique opens at 11 a.m., settle in for coffee, tea, pastries or a light lunch; in the afternoon, treat yourself to high tea with an array of petit fours served on a gorgeous three-tier crystal tower. By early evening, a well-heeled crowd of regulars trickle in for cocktails and casual business meetings, and as the night progresses, the lights are dimmed, and the music is raised. Tuck away at a corner table for a romantic date until the boutique closes at a respectable 8 p.m.
INTO THE LOOKING GLASS
Choose from Champagne, wine, and around seven signature cocktails like the Supreme Narcisse made with vodka, Aperol, pink grapefruit syrup and cardamom syrup, all of which change with the seasons. Don’t see anything that strikes your fancy? With the B Experience, handpick your own glass, spirit, and flavor profile and the head bartender will concoct something incredible to match your taste, so no two bespoke cocktails are the same. Settling on a silhouette is part of the journey, as you feel the hefty weight in your hand, and let’s be honest, everything tastes better in crystal.
A top preference is the asymmetrical-shaped Narcisse Champagne Coupe, imagined by sculptor and furniture designer Boris Tabacoff in the ‘70s to replicate the narcissus flower (a daffodil) that bends toward the water. (It’s rumored that its off-center shape was to allow you to hold a cigarette while sipping Champagne.) While traditionalists may choose a tipple in the iconic 1841 Harcourt Collection, the oldest in the Baccarat archive, color enthusiasts will be drawn to the chiseled-stemmed Vega flutes in cheery blue, red and green, or the Mosaique Tumblers that bring a festive spirit to any table.
SIP AND SHOP
Look for gift sets to celebrate newlyweds, a housewarming, or any special occasion that one might have. Gifting is a dream with best- sellers like the Bubble Box, a unique array of six Champagne glasses, along with decanters and pitchers sure to elevate any party. While you’re enjoying the bar/lounge, they’ll engrave your selection or envelop a gift in their signature ruby-red box — they’ll even hand deliver within five miles. This is a retail experience we can all get behind, especially as the busy holiday season approaches. baccarat.com.