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Posts Tagged ‘Dining’

Sitting front and center the children and I enjoyed a delightful dinner at Swifty’s, once New York’s preeminent society boîte, has recently opened in Palm beach this season with a pop up at the iconic Colony Hotel.  An Upper East Side stalwart for almost two decades, Swifty’s ended its run in 2016 to the despair of Manhattan’s food elite. Now, founder and good friend Robert Caravaggi together with Colony Hotel owners Sara and Andrew Wetenhall, bring the restaurant that inspired an international following to Palm Beach for a limited engagement.  I am so completely thrilled as everything on the menu is delish, and the ambience is fabulous!

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Summer has finally sprung upon us. Though you may prefer to escape the hustle and bustle in favor of the crisp air near the Aegean Sea, spending summer in the city is truly magical, especially since you can, literally, find a taste of Mediterranean serenity without having to island hop. If you can’t afford an exotic adventure to Greece or Coastal Italy, you can, at least, take your taste buds on vacation.

Cafe Medi

 Serving up dishes inspired by the traditional coastal fare of Spain, Italy, and France, Cafe Medi is not only a go-to for delicious and unique Mediterranean, but also for an amazing ‘gram. The beautiful space boasts an airy atmosphere, complete with high ceilings and stunning murals on the walls. Come summer, there’s also outdoor terrace seating – perfect for pretending you’re catching a seaside breeze.

Cafe Medi, 107 Rivington St.

 

Yefsi Estiatorio

Located on the Upper East Side, Yefsi highlights charm and sophistication in their authentic meals, focusing on appetizer meze dishes. Enjoy a plate of grilled octopus with a chilled Retsina white wine in this dimly lit restaurant. Date night, anyone?

 

Yefsi Estiatorio, 1481 York Ave.

 

Avra

Craving seafood? This upscale eatery on Madison Avenue emanates a “villa vibe” with extended outdoor seating available, displaying fresh whole fish from the Aegean upon entrance.

 

Avra Madison Estiatorio, 14 E 60th St.

The Greek

The Greek Tribeca offers a cozy escape, where creative dishes and natural vines and greenery capture the spotlight, as if you were sitting in an outdoor taverna in Mykonos on a hot summer night.

 

The Greek,  458 Greenwich St. 

Estiatorio Milos

Named after the volcanic island featuring pristine clear-blue water, Milos is an NYC favorite. Its sleek interior truly brings out the contrasting colors native to Greece and sharpens the focus on the incredible seafood.

 

Estiatorio Milos, 125 W 55th St.

Ousia

Just a quick drive down the West Side Highway transports you to the beauty of Greece as you stumble upon Ousia, a recently opened restaurant on 57th and 11th. Conveniently located next to the Landmark movie theater, enjoy a bite of their hummus and pita, maybe some cocktails and a spanakopita, after a show.

 

Ousia, 629 W 57th St.

Souvlaki GR

Walking down the grey and white cobblestones, you will immediately feel as if you’ve stepped foot into a local taverna in Santorini, greeted with white walls and blue straw chairs. If you’re looking for something more laid-back but as equally delicious as an upscale restaurant, journey to Souvlaki GR for their famous bifteki sandwich or a few souvlaki skewers. Sit back, relax, and breathe in the fresh air of Greece while situated in the middle of the Lower East Side.

Souvlaki GR, 116 Stanton St.

Santina

Tired of Greek food? Hop on over to the Amalfi coast for this Italian-Mediterranean fusion restaurant situated just beneath The High Line. The glassed-in, jewel box of a space creates the perfect atmosphere to munch on some seafood and pasta after a day of roaming around Chelsea.

 

Santina, 820 Washington St.

Shuka

A small, intimate setting with colorful plates for curious palates awaits New Yorkers on Macdougal street. Shuka offers Mediterranean fare, creative cocktails, and a trendy clientele. Enjoy shawarma, shakshuka, and other small plates as you wine and dine while seeing and being seen.

 

Shuka, 38 Macdougal St.

 

Written By: Stella Stephanopoulos

1. Osteria Francescana – Modena, Italy

Don’t let its modest facade fool you. The world’s top eatery is once again Osteria Francescana, run by Italian-born chef Massimo Bottura and his American wife, Lara Gilmore. Previously named Number One back in 2016, the non-traditional restaurant serves up modern Italian cuisine like a story, with dishes woven with narratives and tastes of the region.

2. El Celler de Can Roca – Girona, Spain

 

The Roca brothers have made El Celler de Can Rocathe world’s top eatery twice, and although it comes in as Number Two this year, the innovative space in northern Spain is nevertheless a must-visit. The food is contemporary Catalan while the plating is purely imaginative. Some lucky few diners even get to tour Josep Roca’s unbelievable wine cellar.

3. Mirazur – Menton, France

 

Chef Mauro Colagreco is informed by his Argentine-Italian heritage, making his Mediterranean fare all the more adventurous on the French side of the riviera. Expect stunning views and fresh seafood at Mirazur.

4. Eleven Madison Park – New York, New York

 

After snagging last year’s top spot on this list, our very own Eleven Madison Parkclosed for a much-needed face-lift. Now it’s back and more modern than ever – and we’re not just talking about the interiors. Chef Daniel Humm has taken to more minimalist plating, but the European-inspired dishes are just as delicious. It might have fallen a few spots, but it’s still Number One in North America.

5. Gaggan – Bangkok, Thailand

 

Officially named the best restaurant in Asia for four years in a row, Gaggan is known for their progressive Indian creations mixed with traditional Thai hospitality. The tasting menu is written out in emojis so that each dish is a literal surprise.

 

6. Central – Lima, Peru

 

Peru’s unique biodiversity is celebrated at Central, which has topped Latin American restaurant lists for years. Husband-and-wife team Chef Virgilio Martínez and Pía León have become leaders in Peruvian dining, taking guests on a tasting journey through the land in 17+ courses.

 

7. Maido – Lima, Peru

Peruvian-Japanese cuisine reigns at Chef Mitsuharu ‘Micha’ Tsumura’s Maido in Lima, where colorful Nikkei dishes include fish hot dogs and Cau Cau dim sum with sea snail. Unique to say the least!

8. Arpège – Paris, France

Vegetables take the main stage at Arpège, where Michelin-starred (a million times over) chef Alain Passard cooks fresh fare from his own farms. After years of going fully vegetarian, meat has returned to the French eatery in small quantities – so carnivores are welcome!

9. Mugaritz – San Sebastian, Spain

 

Traditional Basque dishes get a creative twist at Mugaritz during a 20-course meal, during which you’re asked to give over to your senses. All thanks to pioneering chef Andoni Luis Aduriz.

 

10. Asador Etxebarri – Axpe, Spain

Located in the Spanish countryside, Asador Etxebarri is worth the trek for Chef Victor Arguinzoniz simple, local dishes, and wood-fired barbecue. The stone dining room and service remains unpretentious, despite its world-renowned status.

Written By: Stephanie Maida

Old Fashioned Mom Magazine hosted a VIP Soiree at The Skylark.

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This intimate gathering included, Sabrina Baldieri, Lauren Lawrence, Alessandra Emanuel, Joy Marks, Elizabeth Washer, Laura Bounin and Michelle-Marie Heinemann.

The Septet celebrated the OFM lifestyle brand at The Skylark which provided the most fantastic views of the City.

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Set thirty stories up in the heart of Times Square South, The Skylark delivers a classically-styled cocktail lounge with expansive panoramic views of the Hudson River, Hudson Yards, Times Square, The Empire State Building, and the best of Midtown Manhattan.

With its multi-level indoor spaces, open-air rooftop terrace and warm furnishings — designed by Meyer Davis Studio — The Skylark is a truly all-season destination. In cooler months, guests can enjoy breathtaking city views from the main lounge’s floor-to-ceiling windows. Warmer days deliver an experience that flows naturally between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

Drinks and food at The Skylark are as distinctive as the space itself. The exclusive mixologist’s cocktail menu is based on classic inspirations that are rendered using only the freshest ingredients. The light fare options include a variety of small plates – perfect for an after-work or evening bite.

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I throughly enjoyed several of these Harvest Cobbler’s handcrafted by master mixologist Johnny Swet. It includes; Titos Vodka, Marilde Pear Liquor, Pear and Rosemary.

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The Skylark was developed by hospitality veteran David Rabin together with Jim Kirsch and Alison Awerbuch of Abigail Kirsch.

…..until the next OFM Soirée!

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~The Skylark~

212-257-4577

200 West 39th Street

30th Floor

www.theskylarknyc.com

 

 

 

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Ithaa is the world’s first and only all glass undersea restaurant:  Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Hotel

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Enjoy cocktails, lunch or dinner at Ithaa Undersea Restaurant

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Ithaa translates as ‘Mother of Pearl’ in the Maldivian language of Dhivehi.

Rated “the most beautiful restaurant in the world” by the New York Daily News, Ithaa sits five metres below the surface, offering 180-degree panoramic views of the vibrant coral gardens surrounding it. Ithaa (meaning ‘mother of pearl’ in the Maldivian language of Dihevi) serves contemporary European cuisine in a six-course set dinner menu. Expect indulgences such as caviar for dinner while the four-course lunch menu offers lighter fare. Also open for mid-morning cocktails and can be booked privately for breakfast, weddings or other special occasions.

The restaurant offers the largest wine cellar in the country and a spectacular beachside setting.

 

L’Etoile:

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The menu at L’Etoile was created by renowned French Chef, Jean Paul Bondoux. Originally from Burgundy, Bondoux has settled in South America for over 30 years, where he has the established La Bourgogne restaurants in Punta del Este – Uruguay, and in Buenos Aires – Argentina, as well as NoSo at the hotel W Santiago in Chile. Bondoux arrives in Brazil at the roof top of the Sheraton Rio Hotel, featuring a traditional French cuisine focused on the simplicity and high quality of the local produce to replicate some of his traditional long standing recipes as well as new seasonal dishes with Brazilian influence.

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Main contact:

L’Etoile

Phone: 55 21 2529 – 1299
Email: letoile.rio@sheraton.com

Address:
Located: At the 26th Floor of Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel and Resort
Address: AV Niemeyer 121, Leblon – Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The Highborn of Newport
By Brooke Fedigan

Usually, right around January during the frigid days of winter, I start dreaming of summer and planning our annual summer vacation. My mind immediately takes me to our favorite place; a laid back New England beach town filled with verve, and an elite harbor filled with magnificent sailboats and yachts. It is a town of old world charm, splendid mansions and delicious dining.

Newport, Rhode Island is THE place to spend summer vacations, and we share our love of Newport with a patrician coterie. Those of high society have vacationed in Newport since the 1800’s, and its popularity has not waivered.

Along with relaxing on a private beach, and taking in the nightlife on Bannisters Warf, we love to take in the view of the harbor, and dine at Castle Hill Inn. Located just off Ocean Drive, Castle Hill Inn offers a divine menu and breath taking ambiance.

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Beautiful Views & Relaxing on the lawn…..

My husband Sean and I stole a little time to ourselves, and enjoyed an aperitif on the lawn overlooking the harbor, then moved to a table to savor delicious appetizers.

Lou Rossi, Executive Chef at Castlehill Inn

Lou Rossi, Executive Chef at Castlehill Inn

Executive Chef Lou Rosse treated us to Matunuck Oysters that were sweet, creamy and divine. We also enjoyed the Rhode Island Calamari, which is voted Best in New England, and the Watermelon Burrata Salad certainly received an outstanding vote in my book. We found solace in the beautiful sunset, and watched as a boat sailed by in true tranquility.

Matunuck Oysters

Matunuck Oysters

You too can enjoy the amenity of Newport, and timeless bliss of Castle Hill Inn. The lawn at Castle Hill is open from Memorial Day until Columbus Day. You certainly owe it to yourselves to visit Newport and become one with the harbor views of Castle Hill!

Hudson House Inn #3

Hudson House Inn

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A delightful lunch…..

Hudson House is located on the serene waterfront in the village of Cold Spring, N.Y. …I love this area as my country house is nearby and there is so much to do and see. On a beautiful sunny day it is so nice to sit on the porch and have a delicious meal and watch the River boats pass by on the majestic Hudson River.

The Hudson House River Inn in Cold Spring Aug. 1, 2007. (Rory Glaeseman / The Journal News )

The Hudson House River Inn in Cold Spring

Hudson House Chopped Salad with Sashimi Tuna #6

Hudson House Chopped Salad with Sashimi Tuna

Hudson House offers thoughtfully prepared dishes that are extremely fresh and the service is impeccable. The culinary team is led by executive chef John Guererro and some of my favorites include the Hudson House chopped salad with sashimi tuna, the mozzarella and beefsteak tomato, the vegetable spring roll and the apple strudel with French vanilla ice cream.

Hudson House Inn

Hudson and Michelle-Marie Heinemann with friends Michael Chadwick and Jesse Peterson.

My son loves the sweet tea that is perfectly iced and served in a mason jar……the cocktail list is quite impressive and I thoroughly enjoyed my raspberry mojito!

Fresh Mozzarella and Beefsteak Tomato

Fresh Mozzarella and Beefsteak Tomato

vegetable spring rolls

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Apple Strudel with French vanilla ice cream

Apple Strudel with French vanilla ice cream

Cold Spring Living

Cold Spring Living

Hudson House is a must if you are in the area….

Hudson House River Inn
2 Main Street
Cold Spring, NY 10516
www.hudsonhouseinn.com

Old Fashioned Mom Magazine held its first event on May 6th at Bar Pleiades in the Surrey Hotel. The event celebrated Spring and the success of the magazine while introducing guests to the exciting new bath line created exclusively by the Old Fashioned Mom brand.

Lovely ladies sipped hand crafted Bellini’s and Bloody Mary’s made by bar maestro Guy Fouquet while the little ones had Shirley Temples and chocolate croissants from Cafe Boulud.

The mood was pure champagne kisses as beautiful ladies delighted in one another’s magnificent spring hats.

The most extraordinary chapeau went to Tanja Dreiding Wallace, wearing a masterpiece created for her by designer Victor De Souza. The inspiration was Marie Antoinette, France’s iconic but ill-fated queen.

Arletta Cousineau flew in from Monte Carlo to attend the regal party “I am so delighted to be here, the women are all gorgeous and truly represent an International and modern day Old Fashioned Mom. The bath products are exquisite and luxurious on the body. My favorite is Heavenly Hyacinth, named after Michelle-Marie’s little girl, it reminds me of the fragrant smells of the south of France and my skin has never looked better.”

Beautiful and talented Cassandra Seidenfeld said “I am thrilled when I receive my current Old Fashioned Mom Magazine. It is comprised with trendsetting ideas, fabulous travel advice, delicious recipes, and a wealth of information spanning New York, Palm Beach and London. I discover cutting- edge guidance about fashionable restaurants, and up to the moment Philanthropic events. I am also filled with bliss to know that the new bath products line is here, and I adore my delicious Grapefruit Marmalade Sugar Scrub. It leaves my skin soft like a baby and glowing with a dewy glimmer.”

Other Old Fashioned Mom devotees included: Randi Schatz of Avenue Magazine, Maya Johnson of Palm Beach Today International Magazine, Couture Designer Maggie Norris, Cassandra Seidenfeld, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Tracy Stern, Lauren Day Roberts, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Debbie Dickinson, Leesa Rowland, Alessandra Emanuel, Anne Baker, Aimee Marcoux Spurlock, Tanja Dreiding Wallace, Joy Marks, Donna Soloway, Joycelyn Engle, Jen Bawden, Tina Storper, Adele Niño, Andrea Warshaw-Wernick, Lucinda Bhavsar, Carol Heinemann, Nancy Amodeo, Lynn Versaci, Jean Trocino, Rosemary Ponzo, Melissa Levis and Brooke Fedagain.

Hyacinth Cornelia Heinemann was perfectly turned out in her matching LaRoyex Fascinator with Mommy Michelle-Marie Heinemann. Her brother, Hudson Cornelius Heinemann opted for a more low key look with a Fedora from Maus & Hoffman in Palm Beach.


Guests received complimentary gift bags filled with Old Fashioned Mom luxury body scrubs including Parisian Chocolate Honeysuckle, Pink Grapefruit Marmalade and Heavenly Hyacinth!

Old Fashioned Mom Magazine held its first event on May 6th at Bar Pleiades in the Surrey Hotel


Michelle-Marie Heinemann & Fawaz Gruosi - CEO of de GrisogonoAbsolut Elyx and de Grisogono held an exclusive dinner at The Four Seasons celebrating craftsmanship. de Grisogono the Swiss luxury jeweler was founded in 1993 by black diamond specialist Fawaz Gruosi. One of the most prolific designers of our time, Fawaz has captured hearts and souls with his genius creativity and design. His jewelry is the purest expression of fine art, a wondrous world of shimmering hues that are extravagant and preserve the finest traditions of Haute Joaillerie.

The Four Seasons was predictably divine offering wild nettle Risotto with rock shrimp, morels and asparagus followed by perfectly prepared pepper-crusted Filet Mignon with fire roasted ramps and ancho sauce. The Four Seasons grand mariner soufflé was heaven and the signature pink cotton candy made the evening complete. Throughout the year, The Four Seasons host a wide variety of events from musical performances, cooking classes, pool parties and wine maker dinners. Completely Fabulous!!

Regina@fourseasonsrestaurant.com
Fourseasonsrestaurant.com

de Grisogono – Swiss Luxury Jeweler


Absolut Elyx

“Delicious Cocktails that included…..Wet and Dry Martinis, On the Rock….and my favorite, The Dark Horse.”

The Four Seasons