Island Life: Nick Kassatly has Palm Beach hometown in his blood

Years before Nick Kassatly became an attorney and real estate associate in Palm Beach, something imperceptibly transpired during his childhood on the island.

While then a tennis and lacrosse player at what’s now called Palm Beach Day Academy, and the then-young son of a beloved Worth Avenue boutique owner, his hometown got into his bones.

“Everything that makes Palm Beach special — that’s something that gets in your blood from the time you’re young and you don’t even know it,” Kassatly told the Daily News. “It’s with you wherever you go.”

Which is one reason why the 38-year-old, now a West Palm Beach resident, is drawn to the island over and over, spending the better part of each week here for work and for pleasure.

More: Island Life: Profiles of folks who celebrate Palm Beach living

Though the Kassatly name in Palm Beach long has been associated with the century-old family-owned linen store his grandfather founded on Worth Avenue before Nick’s father Edward and uncle Robert took the reins several decades ago, Nick has forged his own successful business path in law and real estate.

For one thing, the attorney is affiliated with the Palm Beach real estate office of Brown Harris Stevens, making use of his local knowledge plus the latest market data and technology to help clients. Armed with a real-estate finance degree from Southern Methodist University and law and business degrees from Stetson University, Kassatly is a “lifelong learner,” avid tennis player and music lover.

He relishes dining out at his favorite Palm Beach restaurants — among them, Pizza al Fresco and Palm Beach Grill — with his wife, Stacy.

More: Iconic Palm Beach store celebrates 100 years on Worth Avenue

Weekends often are spent in Palm Beach visiting his parents or perhaps building sand castles at the beach with his two children, Sloane, 4, and Myers, 2 (Sloane is a ballet and tennis buff; Myers likes soccer and swimming).

Kassatly, who currently serves on the Business and Professional Committee of the Town of Palm Beach United Way, has chaired various Palm Beach charity fundraisers, including Beach Bash, and he’s often done so with friends from his Palm Beach school years. “I still see them all a lot and probably will forever.”

The Daily News caught up further with Kassatly:

What are three things people should know about you?  

1. I'm a lifelong learner. I love picking up new skills and knowledge, whether it's through reading, online courses or just trying something new.

2. Music is a big part of my life. Playing guitar, attending concerts, or enjoying it at home are some of my greatest joys.

3. I’m fortunate to have an amazing and supportive family. I love spending time with them and creating lasting memories through family dinners, vacations or simply enjoying everyday moments together.

As a third-generation Palm Beacher, you have an innate sense of Palm Beach history and your family‘s part in it. In recent years, in what way has Palm Beach changed that matters most to you?  

As someone who grew up in Palm Beach, I find the recent influx of new residents is noticeable, bringing growth and fresh energy. This change has opened up new business opportunities and brought in a diverse mix of people, which is exciting. It's important that we maintain our small-town charm, but I'm also intrigued to see how these new elements can positively contribute to our community's character.

You are a Realtor associate at Brown Harris Stevens’ Palm Beach office, but you’re also an attorney. What are the advantages of that?  

My legal and real estate finance background provides a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of transactions. It helps me advocate for my client's interests and smoothly navigate any challenges that may arise.

Three favorite ways to spend your free time?  

1. Meals and good wine with friends and family;

2. Playing tennis;

3. Reading and working on exciting projects.

Growing up in Palm Beach, what was your favorite restaurant and favorite thing to eat there? Now as an adult, what are two of your favorite island restaurants and your favorite dish at each? 

Growing up, I always loved Ta-boo: The warm steak salad there was terrific, and I went with my family a lot. I had some great memories there so I was very sad to see them go. (Now), Pizza Al Fresco — the outside dining area there is unique. My favorite pizza is the Santa Sicilia with oyster mushrooms and truffle. The Palm Beach Grill is always on point and an exciting scene during the season. I love the ribs!

You’ve been a co-chair or committee member for various charity events, including Young Friends of the Red Cross Beach Bash, where guests are encouraged to wear colorful Lilly Pulitzer styles. What drives you to play a role in such events? 

My involvement in charity events like Beach Bash stems from a strong belief in giving back and staying active in our community, especially when it comes to supporting causes that make a real difference. We're fortunate to be part of a generous and supportive community, and I find it fulfilling to contribute in any way I can.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Island Life: Attorney Nick Kassatly treasures Palm Beach hometown