Mary Lou’s, a new and lavish nightlife concept in Palm Beach, officially opened its doors today. Combining vintage charm with modern luxury and the legendary revelry of Palm Beach, Mary Lou’s offers a sophisticated, yet playful atmosphere for guests. The venue was created by renowned hospitality innovators Alex Melillo, Joe Cervasio, and Topher Grubb. More than just a venue, Mary Lou’s is a tribute to the glamorous past of Palm Beach and the legacy of its namesake, Mary Lou Curtis—grandmother of co-founder Alex Melillo. Known for her bold personality and daring style, Mary Lou Curtis was a prominent figure in the West Palm Beach fashion scene, adored by icons like Jackie O. and Betty White.
Inspired by her ethos, “always have a sense of ridiculousness,” the design of Mary Lou’s channels a blend of dramatic elegance and irreverence, making it a standout venue in Palm Beach’s luxury nightlife scene.
On Thursday, January 23, the co-founders unveiled Mary Lou’s with a Black Tie Surrealism Affair, celebrating the mythical persona of Mary Lou Curtis. The invite-only event featured a curated guest list of VIPs, industry tastemakers, and celebrities, including Lorraine Bracco, Tucker Halpern of Sofi Tukker, Silvana Mojica, Stacey Bendet (Founder of Alice + Olivia), and others. The event revived a sense of fantasy, elegance, and luxury, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exceptional venue for high-end entertainment in Palm Beach.
In addition to its grand opening, Mary Lou’s is pleased to announce an exciting collaboration with Grammy-nominated electronic dance duo Sofi Tukker, who will serve as Creative Entertainment Directors, alongside The Chainsmokers. Sofi Tukker—comprising Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern—will play a significant role in shaping the venue’s creative direction, including curating talent and refining acoustics. Their involvement highlights Mary Lou’s commitment to offering an exceptional, artist-driven experience for both performers and guests. This collaboration positions the venue as a unique space for live music and entertainment in Palm Beach, with an emphasis on creativity, innovation, and artistry.
Mary Lou’s offers more than just a night out—it’s a full sensory experience that blends the bold extravagance of 70s and 80s Palm Beach with modern sophistication. Guests can enjoy an elevated cocktail menu featuring hand-crafted drinks, such as a reimagined Espresso Martini and a carefully curated martini experience that traces the drink’s history, from a classic Dry Gin Martini in 1896 to the “Espress Yourself” Martini from 1983.
The venue’s menu of “Bites” includes upscale dishes like Altima Caviar with a choice of “traditional” or “modern” accompaniments, such as fried chicken bites, house-made Doritos, and hash browns. The food and drink offerings complement the luxurious atmosphere of the venue, making it a standout choice for those seeking fine dining and high-end cocktails in Palm Beach.
Located at 250 Southern Blvd in West Palm Beach, Mary Lou’s occupies the space previously held by Berto’s Bait and Tackle, a beloved local institution. While maintaining the exterior façade of its predecessor, Mary Lou’s reveals an opulent interior, designed to evoke a sense of both nostalgia and modern decadence. Guests enter through a speakeasy-style entrance, where rustic touches and coastal charm give way to a grand vestibule that leads to the main lounge.
Designed by Volenec Studio, the lounge features a striking combination of ornate wood paneling, bespoke artwork, antique velvet drapery, and a surrealist mural that serves as the centerpiece of the space. This design creates an atmosphere of intimacy and seduction, with every detail carefully curated to immerse guests in an unforgettable environment.
Mary Lou’s is now open Thursday to Sunday, from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM EST, offering a one-of-a-kind experience in Palm Beach. Whether you’re seeking world-class cocktails, live entertainment, or a luxurious space for socializing, Mary Lou’s promises to deliver an unparalleled nightlife experience that blends art, music, and indulgence.
