With St. Pete listed by Forbes as a Top 10 Area Americans Are Moving To, we’ve created the series "Block by Block" to help ‘Burgers new and old get acquainted with the blocks (and their hidden gems) that make downtown so special!

Across from the Shops at St. Pete and Muvico sits a surprising little shop full of trinkets from the motherland–Russia, that is. Vladimir’s Collections (201 1st St. NE) hosts an enormous selection of goods that are imported from Russia and the Ukraine, as well as handmade jewelry by the owner, Vladimir Malkin himself. He also features handmade glass and ceramic figurines created by his son.

Next door is a delicate, mouth-watering dessert experience. One of eight Florida locations, Le Macaron (203 1st St. NE) is an adorable pastry shop specializing in french macarons. They also sell coffee drinks and gelato, making this little French patisserie a delightful treat.

Looking to buy yourself something fancy? Head next door to Good Night Moon (205 1st St. NE). This store features European-imported fine linens, lingerie, and children’s clothes. This corner shop of Yves Delorme, Paris prides itself on helping customers bring their decorating visions to life. 


At Josie’s Boutique (209 1st St. NE), more fine, handmade items lay waiting for customers to snatch them up. All clothing is designed and handmade, so you never have to worry about someone else wearing the same dress.

At Exclusively Yours Hair and Nails (211 1st St. NE), personal service is given to each customer to give them the fantastic look they’ve been waiting for. Be sure to call ahead – hours vary at this classy salon. 

For a break from all that shopping, stop by Pia Esthetics Day Spa (215 1st St. NE), a divine olfactory experience! This full-service spa provides massages and facials as well as house-made lemongrass oil available for purchase as an air freshener for the home. Dermologica products are used to provide a sensational experience. After that full-body massage, it’s time to makeover the rest. You know you deserve it!

Hungry? Rollbotto Sushi (221 1st St. NE) is waiting at the end of this block to satisfy that craving, whether midday or late-night. Choose from several signature rolls such as the “Shell Shock,” or create your own roll or bowl from a variety of different fillings and toppings. Wash it all down with an imported beer or sake. And then go around back to one of the hottest courtyards in town with live music and special events virtually every night of the week!

Isn’t it about time you took a stroll down the 200 Block of 1st Street NE? Stay tuned for our next Block by Block feature!

Report contributed by Marissa DiPietro, freelance writer and cupcake aficionado. She enjoys taking her dog for walks in Vinoy Park and blasting Bing Crosby from her speakers. With a degree in Communications, she loves interacting with people and makes new acquaintances wherever she goes. Her favorite St. Pete spots include Craftsman House Gallery & Cafe, Haslam’s Book Store, and the Saturday Morning Market.

Like to see Marissa cover a topic? Email info@iLovetheBurg.com with the subject "Yo Marissa!" 

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