Uptown utopia unveils urban treasures

The phrase “total package” can easily describe a quaint utopia where the most stylish of tastes are quenched. Its streets are open arms to shopping, dining and entertainment.

There is no need to travel far when this “all inclusive” experience lies in Dallas’ own back yard. Located between McKinney Avenue and Cole Avenue, the West Village adds a European atmosphere to the community with its collage of restaurants and boutiques

“Our vision was to create an urban neighborhood,” says property manager Henry S. Miller, IV.

A French magazine and a simple wine list can be found in the spacious, classy bar, Paris Vendome. Here, the French/American affair blossoms, the dog-worthy patio invites and the people’s casuaul yet sophisticated dress code stands true.

Paris Vendome owner, Michel Boutemy de Guislain, said the West Village will celebrate National Bastille Day on July 14. France’s Independence will fill the streets of the West Village with painters, music and mimes.

This new community provides the answer to the ever daunting question – what will we eat tonight? With varous types of cuisines, the restaurants found at the West Village are sure to satisfy any taste.

Taco Dinner’s Mexican cuisine is completmented by its array of flavored margaritas. Cru, a wine bar with a limited menu offers its clientel 58 different wines by the glass. The vivid dé#233;cor and the electric peach Bellinis make Ferre a tempting treat to any Italian lover. For patrons that desire delectable snacks, Celebrity Bakery provides a plethora of cookies, cakes, breads and sandwiches.

“The West Village has filled a retail void, giving a downtown to uptown,” Miller said.

Aside from the basic retail necessities of Polo, Banana Republic and The Gap, the West Village is home to several unique stores. Lucky Brand, Tommy Bahama’s and Pitaya boutiques reside soley in this new shopping haven, located a short drive from SMU.

“The whole idea is you don’t have to go far,” said Brett Markey, owner of the only Sara Lasier store in Dallas. “There is a little bit of everything and everyone is unique.”

Sarah Lasier brings the LA look, with its trendy designer apparel, to Dallasites. Markey said SMU students who mention this article will get a 10 percent discount at Sara Lasier.

Since Markey likens the West Village to “a city within a city,” an independent film at the Magnolia can quickly be followed by a scoop of Italian gelato at Renaissance Paciugo.

Legacy Trading Co. offers many choices for any gift giving occasion, including a flower gallery attached to the eclectic store. Unique gifts can also be purchased at Near and Far which carries exclusive “findings for your home” including a wide variety of candles.

The Avalon/Aveda Lifestyle Spa and Salon resides on the north side of the West Village. The salon offers massages, make-overs and carry an array of Aveda beauty products.

“The West Village has it all,” said senior Advertising and Finance major Katherine Pitts. “It is a chic environment that offers one stop dinning, shopping and entertainment.”