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The Chassis

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Nothing at Mark Pomerantz is accidental. We are not simply cutting fabric to t your body. We are shaping an idea of how clothing should be conceived, built, and worn. How it should move with you. How it should feel against you. True luxury lies not in measurements alone, but in design. And great design changes everything. Every element of our chassis is designed to sculpt the male form with purpose and precision—creating a silhouette that feels architectural, chiseled from a block of marble.

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here are certain weekends that seem to capture everything NOBLEMAN is about, and NOBLE Wine & Dine has become one of them.

Our cover star, Tom Claeren, understands that world better than most. Based in Monaco, Tom has built a career at the intersection of superyachts, supercars, fine watches, art and global events. His cinematic work has given him extraordinary access, but what makes him compelling is that he does not simply document luxury. He understands the people, relationships and ideas driving it forward.

We kicked off the summer at The Resort at Pelican Hill with three unforgettable days of extraordinary food, wine and, most importantly, great people. Guests flew in from across the country to join us, and seeing so many familiar faces alongside new ones made this year feel particularly special. From the first toast on Friday evening to the final glass on Sunday afternoon, the energy was incredible.

That vision is perhaps best seen through Ultimate Superyacht Experience, his signature Monaco Grand Prix experience. Each year, Tom transforms one of the harbor’s most spectacular yachts into a meeting place for leaders across business, sport, entertainment and luxury. It is bold, ambitious and highly visual, but also carefully considered. He knows that the yacht itself may attract attention, but it is the right mix of people that creates the experience.

A huge thank you to Chef Daniel Boulud, Sebastien Silvestri and the entire Dinex team for being such an important part of the weekend. Daniel brought the same warmth, generosity and excellence that define everything he does. We were also joined by an exceptional group of chefs, winemakers and partners who gave their time and talent to create something truly memorable.

In our conversation, we explore what truly separates a great charter from an average one, why the superyacht has become one of the world’s most coveted gathering places and where he believes luxury is heading next.

NOBLE Wine & Dine is always my favorite weekend of the year, but this one raised the bar. The response from our guests was overwhelming, with many calling it the best food and wine event they had ever attended. That is a remarkable compliment and one we do not take lightly. To everyone who joined us, supported us and helped bring the weekend to life, thank you. It would not exist without you.

As always, these pages are built around the experiences worth traveling for, the people worth knowing and the things created with genuine intention. Whether you are planning your next week on the water or simply looking for a little inspiration closer to home, I hope this issue encourages you to make the most of what remains of the season.

That spirit of access and adventure continues in this issue as we head to the water for our annual yacht edition. Inside, you will find our guide to chartering some of the world’s most impressive yachts, along with the destinations, experiences and details that can turn a week at sea into something exceptional.

Most of all, thank you for continuing to be part of NOBLEMAN. Your support allows us to tell these stories, bring people together and keep building something we are incredibly proud of. Cheers!

Doug McLaughlins DOUG McLAUGHLIN

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CONTRIBUTORS

ERIC MICHAEL ROY Known for his celebrity and fashion photography, Eric brought our vision of many cover shoots to life. Born in New York City, Eric has photography in his blood. While learning the family trade, he found early success in the arts as an actor and a musician, with starring roles on Broadway, on television, and in feature films. When he isn’t running around on land, he enjoys sailing with his wife, actress Kelly Sullivan. @ericmichaelroy

BEN SOUTH Ben is a Producer, Post Producer, and Post Supervisor for Television, Film, Commercials, Branded Content, and Comedy Specials. Based in Los Angeles, (USA) and London (England), Ben frequently works between both cities, overseeing creative teams, managing complex post workflows, and ensuring every project delivers to the highest technical and creative standards. @benjamingeorgesouth

MADISON TABER Madison is a personal stylist based in San Clemente. An Orange County stylist with over a decade of experience, she focuses on pieces that earn their place in a wardrobe. Rooted in capsule dressing, she helps clients discover what they’ll reach for again and again. @madisonlunataber

BRITTANY HESLIN Brittany is a Southern California– based stylist and people leader with a background in luxury fashion. With a thoughtful, research-driven approach, she focuses on curation, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Guided by intention and integrity, she helps shape experiences rooted in meaning, connection, and enduring elegance. @brittany_heslin

FRANK SALAS Frank Salas is a Southern California– based Master Photographer with a reputation for capturing high-profile events with elegance and precision. Widely respected in the industry, he is also a sought-after speaker and judge at national and international photography conferences. @franksalasphotography

ANDRE NIESING Andre is a Level 3 Sommelier (WSET,) photographer and film maker based in Southern California. Shooting stills and videos for nearly 25 years, what makes him unique is his ability to evoke so many different emotions and reactions through his storytelling. @andreniesing

MICHELE HARRINGTON The CEO of First Team Real Estate, Southern California's #1 Independent Brokerage. One of the most successful and ambitious women in her field, Michele is not only a Marine Corp veteran, she has also authored a book, started and owned multiple companies, is an investor in multiple real estate units and serves on various real estate councils. After a lifetime of achievements, Michele still loves tackling the real estate world and now helps others build sustainable careers and wealth in real estate. @michelewilliamsharrington

JONAH BONNER Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Jonah has built a multidisciplinary career around videography, photography, and marketing - most notably revolving around high-end automotive, luxury, and sports. Although usually found behind the camera, he has spent time in front of it as well, making appearances as a threetime competitor on American Ninja Warrior. Outside of work he is an avid rock climber, mountain biker, and surfer. @jonahbonner

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OUR CURATED GUIDE TO EVERYTHING NEW AND NEWSWORTHY

AMAMGATI BY AMAN Launching in Spring 2027, Amangati represents the absolute pinnacle of maritime haute couture, transforming the "Aman at Sea" vision into a 600-foot floating private resort that completely rewrites the ultra-luxury cruise experience. Custom-built in Italy in partnership with Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, this ultra-exclusive vessel hosts only 94 elite guests across 47 palatial suites to ensure ultimate privacy. The striking residential architecture balances grand scale with Japanese-inspired restraint, utilizing Italian Calacatta marble finishes paired with warm, hand-finished timbers throughout the structural columns and public spaces. Select premium suites elevate the experience by offering expansive teak wood terraces, plush outdoor daybeds for stargazing, separate interior living rooms, and freestanding marble-clad soaking tubs looking out over the water. Beyond their private quarters, travelers in the know enjoy all-inclusive access to a massive 12,000-square-foot two-story Aman Spa and fitness center, a curated collection of high-end fashion and jewelry shopping boutiques, a 52-foot aft infinity pool, and six distinct world-class dining experiences that range from main restaurants to private dining rooms and bespoke, in-suite culinary service. Navigating its inaugural voyages along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, the ship’s small footprint grants unprecedented, unhurried harbor access during iconic global events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix. amanatsea.com

A NEW ORBIT FOR INDEPENDENT WATCHMAKING For most watchmakers, Mars serves as inspiration. For ATOWAK, it became the blueprint for an entirely new way of telling time. After three years of development, the Mars Age transforms the movement of Earth, Mars, and the Moon into a mechanical display that feels more like a miniature solar system than a traditional watch. A rotating Mars disc serves as the hour indicator, orbiting through a complex planetary gear system inspired by celestial motion. Minutes are displayed by alternating hands in what the brand calls a spacecraft relay system, keeping the dial in near constant motion. A laser formed titanium Mars, polished black jade Moon, and engraved Earth complete the cosmic display. Available in Origin Grey, Traverse White, and the limited edition Phantom Violet, the Mars Age showcases the creativity that continues to define independent watchmaking. It is an ambitious reminder that the future of horology is still being written. Prices starting at $3,380 | atowak.com 21

TWO ICONS, ONE VISION Heritage takes center stage as Dolce&Gabbana joins forces with Ray-Ban to reinterpret one of eyewear’s most iconic silhouettes. Together they have unveiled a limited-edition eyewear collection that reimagines the iconic Aviator ahead of its 90th anniversary. Designed by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, the collection introduces fresh interpretations of the Shooter and Outdoorsman II, blending Ray-Ban’s unmistakable pilot silhouette with Dolce&Gabbana's distinctly Italian sense of glamour. Vintage inspired details including a mother-of-pearl brown bar, mirrored and transparent teardrop lenses, and refined metal construction, bring new energy to familiar classics without losing their heritage. Each pair is accompanied by an exclusive leather case with a gold tone carabiner, designed to double as a wearable accessory. Photographed by Gray Sorrenti, the campaign captures the collection’s confident spirit, celebrating timeless craftsmanship, individuality, and the enduring appeal of two brands that continue to define modern style. Prices start at $490 | dolcegabanna.com

PURPLE REIGN Armin Strom’s Orbit Midnight Purple is not loud in the usual sense. It does not need to be. Limited to just 20 pieces, the watch brings a richer, more atmospheric expression to the brand’s Orbit family, carrying its signature purple beyond the dial and into the movement itself. The fumé dial moves from a vivid purple center into darker edges, giving the piece a sense of depth that feels sharp, modern, and quietly daring. Beneath it, a frosted midnight purple mainplate ties the display to the mechanics below, creating a watch that feels considered from every angle. Its party trick is the on-demand date display, activated by a pusher at 10 o’clock and indicated around the ceramic bezel only when needed. Clean, clever, and unapologetically technical, the Orbit Midnight Purple is about knowing exactly what you are looking at. $47,000 | arminstrom.com

A CENTURY IN SECONDS Representing the pinnacle of elite Italian motorcycle engineering, the Ducati Superleggera V4 Centenario Tricolore skillfully merges raw, track-honed racing technology with unparalleled collector prestige. Serving as an ultraexclusive century celebration limited to just 100 handcrafted units globally, this street-legal hyperbike is constructed entirely out of premium carbon fiber and titanium, including a full structural carbon chassis, carbon wheels, and a world-first production carbon fiber front fork. Its power-to-weight ratio is unmatched, using a bespoke Desmosedici Stradale R 1100 engine that pushes out 228 horsepower in street form and jumps to an incredible 247 horsepower with the included standard racing kit. Clad in world-first, road-legal Brembo carbon-ceramic brake discs and an evocative, hand-painted Italian Tricolore livery inspired by the historic 1986 Daytona-winning 750F1, this sold-out masterpiece pairs advanced MotoGP-derived aerodynamics with absolute, uncompromising exclusivity. 22

$250,000 | ducati.com

ART, PAGES, & PLATES INSIDE ATLANTA’S SARGENT

When a restaurant and a bookstore come together, the result is Sargent. This elite American brasserie — imagined by owners Katie Barringer and Jordan Smelt, captained by award-winning Chef Jason Paolini- lies in Atlanta’s trendy Old Fourth Ward, neighboring the luxurious Forth Hotel. Designed by Digs Architecture, the space is a sophisticated, art-centric luxury experience treating diners to soaring ceilings, a massive covered patio along the BeltLine, and a curated, high-end retail gallery of fashion and art books. Named after master painter John Singer Sargent, you can expect Sargent’s menu to be composed of wood-fired, French-influenced American culinary classics accompanied by an expansive, world-class wine and custom cocktail program. Locals or travelers, make sure to add this unique dining concept to your list of must-tries in Atlanta, open July 2026! sargentatlanta.com

VLAD BYKOV COUTURIER HOUSE LUXURY CREATED FOR ONE INDIVIDUAL

True luxury begins where an object ceases to be simply an object and becomes an extension of its owner’s identity. This philosophy became the foundation of VLAD BYKOV Couturier House, established in 2017. Every creation is made not for mass production, but for one individual. Personal proportions, lifestyle, character, and story become the starting point of every project. The House creates more than footwear, clothing, handbags, and accessories—it creates pieces that become part of the owner’s life. Today, VLAD BYKOV Couturier House, headquartered in Dubai, serves private clients worldwide. The House works with clients across the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, the United States, Canada, Australia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Russia. Its clientele includes renowned athletes, entrepreneurs, and collectors, including Conor McGregor, Jacob Arabo, and Arman Tsarukyan. Every creation can be personalized with the owner’s initials, making each piece truly unique. Among the House’s bespoke creations is the Jet Travel Bag. Designed specifically for travel aboard private aircraft, with every detail tailored to the owner’s lifestyle, travel routines, and individual requirements. One of the House’s newest design signatures is its mules featuring a distinctive orange outsole. More than a design element, the orange outsole represents the philosophy of VLAD BYKOV Couturier House: bringing more color, character, and emotion into everyday life through timeless design. It reflects the belief that true luxury can be understated, yet always memorable. For VLAD BYKOV Couturier House, craftsmanship is built on respect for tradition, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to creating pieces that remain relevant for years to come. Rather than following trends, the House continues to shape its own vision of contemporary elegance through exceptional materials, artisanal craftsmanship, and a deeply personal approach to bespoke creation. True luxury begins where an object becomes an extension of its owner’s identity. vladbykov.ae 23

A NEW LANDMARK ON MELROSE Pawn Shop gets a lot right before the game even starts. Set inside a restored 1960s era building on Melrose Avenue, the space strikes a balance between old Los Angeles character and contemporary design. Custom millwork, rich textures, warm lighting, and thoughtfully crafted gathering spaces give the venue a sense of substance that is often missing from traditional sports bars. That attention to detail carries throughout the experience. Massive screens and the energy of game day are complemented by a menu from James Beard Award winner Tony Messina, proving that great food and sports can coexist under the same roof. The result is more than a place to catch a game. It is the kind of spot where you settle in for a few hours, order another round, and find yourself staying well after the final score. The best venues make it easy to lose track of time. Pawn Shop is one of them.

Pawnshopla.com

Served Ice Cold There are few things more synonymous with summer than an ice cold Coca Cola. Casio knows it. To celebrate Coca Cola's 140th anniversary, the Japanese watchmaker has teamed up with the iconic beverage brand to create one of the season's most playful releases: a Coca Cola inspired G Shock "CasiOak." Built on the popular GA 2100 platform, the watch embraces nostalgia with design cues drawn from the brand's signature contour bottle, fizzy bubbles, vintage vending machines, and classic bottle caps. A translucent green strap recalls the original glass bottles, while the textured dial evokes the look of a freshly poured Coke. For collectors accustomed to an endless rotation of black dial sports watches, this collaboration offers a welcome change of pace. It is lighthearted, colorful, and unmistakably summer. Not every watch is destined to become a family heirloom. Some simply capture a feeling, and few do it better than this tribute to one of the world's most recognizable brands. $200 | casio.com

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From 95+ point wines to falconry experiences— discover what sets us apart.

D E D I C AT E D T O C R E AT I N G E X C E P T I O N A L E S TAT E P I N O T N O I R A N D C H A R D O N N AY

E S TAT E G R O W N  S U S TA I N A B LY F A R M E D  F A M I LY O W N E D O P E N D A I LY 1 0 - 5  1 0 7 5 B U C H L I S TAT I O N R O A D , N A P A , C A L I F O R N I A 8 0 0.6 5 4 .W I N E  B O U C H A I N E .C O M

WHEN WATCHMAKING MEETS CHILDHOOD WONDER Few brands blur the line between engineering and imagination quite like MB&F, and its latest creation may be the clearest example yet. The HM12 The Guardian is equal parts haute horology, mechanical sculpture, and childhood daydream brought to life. Developed over more than four years, the piece combines a highly complicated flying tourbillon wristwatch with a 38-centimeter-tall robot companion created alongside Swiss clockmaker L’Epée 1839. The watch itself forms the robot’s head, displaying the time through jumping hours and trailing minutes while a flying tourbillon serves as its exposed “brain.” A mechanical face-shield system, made up of more than 200 components, allows the wearer to gradually conceal or reveal the dial, adding a layer of theater rarely seen in modern watchmaking. MB&F continues to champion creativity, proving that serious craftsmanship and playful imagination are not mutually exclusive. Limited to just 36 examples worldwide, The Guardian feels less like a watch and more like a reminder that collecting should never lose its sense of wonder. Prices starting at $384,000 | mbandf.com

KOJIMA CEMENTS ITS STAKE IN PARIS Iconic Japanese denim house Momotaro cemented its status as a global luxury staple by opening its first standalone international pop-up in Paris’s historic, high-fashion Le Marais district during Men’s Fashion week in June. Known for artisanal excellence, Momotaro jeans are legendary for using hand-dyed, long-staple Zimbabwe cotton woven on heritage toy looms to create an unmatched, bespoke drape. This exclusive European activation brings their signature "Going to Battle" stripes to the epicenter of fashion capital luxury, attracting travelers in the know and elite denim purists alike.

THE COLLECTOR’S LOUNGE

momotarojeans.com

In an era of transactional luxury, MB&F is betting on something more personal. Their new lounge located in the Fuller Building on Madison Avenue, the space marks the brand’s first international subsidiary and gives MB&F a proper foothold in its largest single market. For collectors, that matters. This is not a standard boutique built around glass cases and quick transactions. It is designed as a home for the MB&F tribe, a place where serious watch enthusiasts can gather to experience the brand on a more personal level. In a market where true luxury is increasingly defined by access, intimacy, and experience, the New York lounge understands the assignment. It is not simply selling watches. It is building a world around them. For the man who values craft, rarity, and conversation as much as ownership, this is exactly where modern luxury is heading. mbandf.com 26

oliverjameslilos.com

LUXURY AT 10,000 FEET BUCHERER OPENS HIGHEST ROLEX BOUTIQUE IN THE WORLD

Luxury retail is usually measured in square footage and prestigious addresses. Bucherer’s newest Rolex boutique is measured in altitude. Perched more than 3,000 meters above sea level atop Switzerland’s Mount Titlis, the newly opened space is officially the highest Rolex boutique in the world. Reached by a journey that includes cable cars and breathtaking alpine views, the boutique feels less like a storefront and more like a destination in itself. The setting is fitting for a brand whose history has long been intertwined with exploration, endurance, and the pursuit of extremes. as memorable as the timepiece waiting at the summit. bucherer.com

YAKINIKU KAPPO NOTE TOKYO EXPERIENCE

MAESTRO MADE

Operating in Tokyo's upscale Azabu-Juban district, Yakiniku Kappo Note completely rewrites the high-end dining landscape, bridging a modern luxury escape with a deep appreciation for ancestral heritage. Priced at a premium ¥44,000 to ¥60,000 per person, this ultra-exclusive venue—limited to an intimate counter sitting—moves far beyond a standard meal to deliver an intentionally curated, multi-course wagyu omakase journey. Travelers in the know enjoy an elite culinary performance that pairs premium, highest-grade A5 Japanese Black Wagyu with traditional kappo precision, centering around masterfully executed sashimi, grilled, and delicately seared dishes. Each course is intricately woven with rare seasonal ingredients and thoughtful palate cleansers, then elegantly presented on authentic, antique Edo-period ceramics right before your eyes. Following its massive success ranking among the top steak destinations globally, the brand’s highly anticipated, ultra-exclusive spin-off concept—WA NOTE—will be in the same neighborhood to introduce a revolutionary, five-sensory digital projection mapping culinary immersion. ¥44,000 to ¥60,000 per person | mdsfund.com

Handmade in Italy, the limited-edition Oliver Peoples Maestro frames capture the glamorous, mid-century sophistication of 1950s occasion dressing. Priced at a premium $2,728, these acetate frames are washed in a sleek, custom carbon grey crystal color that beautifully reveals a striking musical-staff corewire pattern lavishly plated in 18k white gold. The true mark of luxury rests at the temple tips, which are adorned with a genuine, precious ruby, sapphire, or emerald gemstone. Blending pristine craftsmanship with elite jewelry design, they offer travelers in the know an incredibly distinctive, highly collectible piece of wearable art. Oliver Peoples Maestro Sunglasses Black with Emerald Acetate Frames and Carbon Grey lenses $2,728 | oliverpeoples.com 28

AMERICAN TIME As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, Timex is honoring the occasion with a collection rooted in heritage, utility, and distinctly American design. Founded in Connecticut in 1854, the brand has long occupied a unique place in the country’s watchmaking story, producing pieces that feel approachable, dependable, and quietly iconic. Its America 250 collection brings that legacy forward through updated versions of the Waterbury Heritage Chronograph, Marlin, Marlin Jet Automatic, and Weekender. Rather than leaning too hard into flag-waving nostalgia, the watches incorporate red, white, and blue details with subtlety. The result feels less like a souvenir and more like a reminder of what Timex has always done well: create timeless, wearable pieces with real cultural staying power. For America’s milestone year, that sense of durability feels especially fitting.

Priced at $119 | timex.com

THE MODERN HEIRLOOMS OF RACHEL DONATH Luxury furniture is often mistaken for excess. Rachel Donath's work makes a compelling case for the opposite. As summer invites us to slow down and spend more time at home, Donath's furniture feels particularly relevant. These are pieces designed not for a season, but for a lifetime. Across a collection that includes everything from sculptural seating to stone and mixed-material designs, Donath returns often to oak and burlwood, two materials that lend her work a distinct sense of warmth and permanence. Donath lets the materials speak for themselves. The result is furniture that feels substantial, refined, and quietly luxurious.In a season defined by fleeting moments, there's something refreshing about objects built to endure. Like all great investments, Donath's pieces only grow more compelling with time. racheldonath.com 29

THE COLOR OF SUMMER Most luxury watches play it safe. H. Moser & Cie. has never been particularly interested in that approach. The independent Swiss watchmaker is making a compelling case for the watch of the summer with its latest Streamliner in Sun Berry; a piece that embraces color without sacrificing sophistication. At first glance, the combination of a rich berry-purple fumé dial and bright yellow accents feels almost audacious, evoking sunsets, tropical cocktails, and long afternoons spent near the water. Yet, somehow, it works. That balancing act is what Moser does better than most. What elevates the watch beyond seasonal novelty is the brand's simultaneous restraint. The dial remains clean, uncluttered, and unmistakably Moser. The men who gravitate toward Moser are rarely interested in wearing what everyone else is wearing. They appreciate craftsmanship, certainly, but they also understand that true style requires a degree of personality. The Sun Berry delivers both. Priced at $17,910 | h-moser.com

TAKING FLIGHT IN ROLLS-ROYCE PROJECT NIGHTINGALE Already heralded as Rolls-Royce’s most ambitious build yet, is Project Nightingale. The name is in reference to “Le Rossignol”, a winter estate belonging to Henry Royce on the French Riviera. The inaugural auto of the Coachbuild Collection represents the apex of invitation-only, multi-million dollar automotive haute couture; only 100 of these will be commissioned. Scarcity is of the utmost concern to the luxury car brand surrounding this collection. At nearly 20 feet long, this all-electric drop-top roadster features a captivating "Streamline Moderne" body and massive, propeller-inspired 24-inch wheels. The ultra-exclusive cabin is a sensory sanctuary, replacing the traditional headliner with a Starlight Breeze Suite that maps 10,500 individual light points to the soundwave patterns of a nightingale's song. If you find the nightingale’s tune orchestrated for you, you may be among the select few taking flight in The Nightingale. Rolls-Royce Nightingale | $9.5 million | RollsRoyceMotorCars.com

THE NICE GUY HEADS SOUTH REVERED LA HOTSPOT EXPANDING TO NEWPORT BEACH In a city constantly chasing the next big thing, The Nice Guy has managed to remain relevant for more than a decade. The West Hollywood institution has earned its place among Los Angeles' most sought after reservations, where Italian comfort food, handcrafted cocktails, and late night energy come together under one dimly lit roof. Now, the celebrated h.wood Group concept is preparing to make its way to Newport Beach, bringing its signature atmosphere to a prime stretch of Pacific Coast Highway. While the project is still in the permitting phase, it is already generating buzz as one of Orange County's most anticipated restaurant openings. The appeal has always extended beyond the menu. Elevated Italian cuisine and polished service are only part of the equation. The Nice Guy succeeds because it understands that memorable restaurants are built as much on ambiance as they are on execution. If the original is any indication, Newport Beach is about to gain one of its most desirable tables. theniceguyla.com 30

DESIGNED TO GO THE DISTANCE

VACHERON CONSTANTIN A direct descendant of the watch field-tested by explorer Cory Richards on Mount Everest, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Dual Time bridges a modern luxury escape with uncompromising, high-end sports engineering. Hand-assembled in Switzerland with the prestigious Hallmark of Geneva certification, the 41mm case and integrated bracelet are sculpted from lightweight grade 5 titanium, beautifully contrasted by a matte anthracite bezel that echoes the iconic Maltese Cross. The 12.2mm-thick architecture provides a highly anti-magnetic core, a transparent sapphire crystal caseback, and a robust 15-bar water resistance. Protected within, the face displays a mesmerizing rich brown dial with triple finishes a grained center, a circular satin-finished minute track, and a lacquered outer track accented by a striking orange dual-time hand and 18K white gold markers glowing with blue SuperLuminova. Travelers in the know can smoothly navigate the globe, utilizing the instant interchangeability system to effortlessly swap the titanium bracelet and triple folding clasp for the included premium brown or orange rubber straps. Constantin Overseas Dual Time (Ref. 7930V/210T-H072) $41,000 | vacheronconstantin

FROM MILAN TO BEVERLY HILLS Since opening in Milan in 1936, the celebrated café and restaurant has become synonymous with classic Italian hospitality, earning a devoted following from Manhattan and the Hamptons to Aspen and Palm Beach. Now, the near century old institution is preparing to make its West Coast debut in Beverly Hills. Set just steps from Rodeo Drive, the forthcoming flagship will be the brand's largest location to date. Guests can expect an expansive dining room, outdoor patio, private dining spaces, cocktail bars, and a dedicated coffee and pastry counter that pays tribute to Sant Ambroeus' origins as a Milanese café. What has allowed Sant Ambroeus to endure for nearly ninety years is its commitment to timelessness. House made pasta, impeccable service, and an atmosphere with classic European charm have long defined the experience. In a city that appreciates both tradition and luxury, Beverly Hills feels like a natural next chapter. .

Set to open in late 2026. santambroeus.com

THE LONG GAME

AFTER 19 YEARS OF MATURATION, DEWAR’S DELIVERS A SCOTCH WORTH SAVORING. Dewar’s latest Champions Edition is a fitting tribute to one of golf ’s most iconic stages. Created as the official Scotch Whisky of the 126th U.S. Open, the Dewar’s 19 Year Old Cabernet Franc Cask Finish draws inspiration from the windswept fairways of Shinnecock Hills Golf Club and the celebrated vineyards of New York’s East End. After 19 years of maturation, the whisky is finished in Cabernet Franc red wine casks from Wölffer Estate Vineyard, a Hamptons institution known for its expressive wines. The result is a sophisticated Scotch that balances depth and brightness. Floral notes of violet and ripe blackcurrant lead the nose, while layers of golden honey, red berries, and warm cinnamon unfold across the palate. Crafted by six-time Master Blender Stephanie Macleod, the limited release continues Dewar’s tradition of innovative cask finishing while capturing the relaxed elegance of summer on the course. Whether enjoyed after a round, shared during a backyard gathering, or poured as the sun dips below the horizon, this is a whisky built for the season’s long days, warm nights, and memorable conversations.

Prices starting at $92.00

NOT YOUR GRANDFATHER’S DIOR For Dior Men's Spring 2027, Jonathan Anderson delivered a collection that felt both refined and refreshingly relaxed. Presented in Paris, the show explored the space between tailoring and personal expression, offering a modern vision of elegance rooted in individuality. Structured jackets were paired with fluid trousers, eveningwear met casual knits, and luxurious fabrics were styled with an ease that never felt forced. Rather than treating sophistication as something rigid, Anderson embraced a more natural approach to dressing. References to Dior's heritage sat comfortably alongside touches of youth culture and everyday spontaneity, creating a wardrobe that felt relevant without chasing trends. The collection reflected a broader shift in menswear, where authenticity increasingly carries more weight than perfection. A relaxed silhouette or an unexpected combination often says more than flawless styling ever could. With Spring 2027, Anderson suggested that elegance is not disappearing. It is simply becoming more personal. dior.com

UNCUT PERFECTION KENTUCKY PEERLESS RELEASES ITS FIRST 10-YEAR RESERVE Marking a historic milestone as the distillery's first-ever age-stated release, Henry Kraver's Old Reserve is an ultra-rare, award-winning Double Platinum bourbon. Utilizing the original recipe, it’s uncompromisingly crafted using a strict sweet mash process, bottled at an uncut, non-chill-filtered barrel proof of 117.6. This highly allocated collector's whiskey sings a sweet tune of extraordinary richness, with a creamy, tantalizing mouthfeel and decadent profile of sweet pipe tobacco, vanilla custard, and vintage oak, finished with burnt brownie edges. Retailing at a one-bottle purchase limit per person, you can count on savoring every drop of this top-shelf collectible.

ACROSS THE POND, ON THE WRIST British watchmaker Bamford London has officially made its American debut, naming Collective Horology as its first authorized U.S. retailer and the partnership feels fitting. Founded by George Bamford, the Mayfair-based brand has built a loyal following through its distinctive blend of British design, Swiss-made movements, and a willingness to inject personality into a category often defined by tradition. Collective Horology has earned a reputation as one of America’s leading voices in independent watchmaking, championing niche brands and cultivating an enthusiastic community of collectors. U.S. enthusiasts can now access Bamford’s collections through Collective Horology’s Ventura boutique and online platform, marking an important step in the brand’s international expansion and bringing a fresh dose of British character to the American watch scene.

Kentucky Peerless Double Platinum Bourbon $199.99 kentuckypeerless.com 33

bamfordlondon.com

A BETTER WAY TO DRIFT Oliver James Lilos has never approached inflatables like pool toys. Since launching the brand, its focus has been on creating upholstered floating loungers that feel more like welldesigned furniture than seasonal accessories, bringing a level of comfort and craftsmanship rarely seen on the water. The brand's latest release, the Valley Collection, continues that approach with a palette inspired by the relaxed tones of the California landscape. Available in the signature Single II, Double II, and Ring II silhouettes, the collection favors warm neutrals and understated finishes that feel just as appropriate beside a resort pool as they do on the deck of a boat. Each Lilo is built around a durable inflatable core wrapped in premium performance upholstery, creating a floating lounger that is equal parts functional and refined. It's an idea that has resonated well beyond private backyards. Today, Oliver James Lilos can be found at luxury properties including The RitzCarlton, Mandarin Oriental, Six Senses and Park Hyatt. While most inflatables are designed for a season, Oliver James Lilos has taken the opposite approach, creating pieces intended to be lived with year after year. The emphasis isn't on bright colors or novelty, but on timeless materials, clean lines and lasting comfort. The Valley Collection feels like a natural extension of that philosophy. oliverjameslilos.com

OREGON’S CABERNET SURPRISE Cimento is making a strong case for Oregon Cabernet Sauvignon. Based in the Walla Walla Valley’s Rocks District, the estate produces wines from 100 percent estategrown fruit cultivated in the region’s distinctive basalt cobblestone soils. Our favorite was the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich with black currant, tobacco, olive, and savory spice, it is structured and complex without feeling overly heavy. A long, polished finish gives it both immediate appeal and serious cellar potential. At $225, it is a compelling bottle from one of Oregon’s most exciting emerging producers. cimentowines.com 34

IN SOUTHERN ITALY, NOBODY IS IN A HURRY. The best things in life aren’t rushed. An espresso. A conversation. The company you keep. Crafted for long evenings, one more story, and no particular reason to leave, MADWOMAN is inspired by a culture that understands that life’s finest pleasures are meant to be savored. The first collection of espresso martinis at 7% ABV. Smooth, balanced and worth lingering over. ORIGIN AL | DE C AF | C AC AO Drink the Italian way. Drinkmadwoman.com

500 Miles of Pure Heritage As the highly anticipated, fully electric successor to the raw 4C, the Alfa Romeo 4E Spider is engineered to dominate the luxury EV roadster sector. Borrowing striking design cues from the hyper-exclusive 33 Stradale, it blends an exotic Italian silhouette with a futuristic platform capable of an incredible 500 miles of range. This open-top masterpiece offers zeroemission supercar performance while maintaining the brand's heritage-rich racing soul, delivering a thrilling driving experience for motorists in the know. $80,000-$100,000 | Alfa Romeo 4E Spider

AN IL-LUMEN-ATING MASTEPIECE Limited to just 50 pieces worldwide, this $530,000 platinum masterpiece breaks from traditional design by utilizing a smoked sapphire crystal face that reveals the inner calendar mechanics below. Its signature layout features an outsize date and a luminescent peripheral month ring that glow radiantly in the dark. Flipped over, the caseback reveals a hidden, black-polished tourbillon cage alongside twin steel cocks meticulously hand-engraved with an ultra-fine star motif. It delivers an intellectual, contemporary expression of luxury for travelers in the know, a must add to any connoisseurs collection. A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar “Lumen” $530,000 | alongsoehne.com

FIT FOR A KING Crafted from the absolute rarest and most exclusive wool in the world, Loro Piana’s "Gift of Kings" wool jacket and pants pair for understated style with unparalleled textile prestige. Sourced from a highly selective breed of Australian and New Zealand Merino sheep, this premium fabric measures an incredibly fine 12 microns in diameter, making it lighter than cashmere and virtually weightless. The set offers unparalleled thermal regulation, a buttery-soft texture, and a fluid silhouette tailored purely for travelers in the know who demand the finest raw materials on earth.

The Gift of Kings Sweater Jacket $10,800 The Gift of Kings Pants $8,500 loropiana.com

TIMING IS EVERYTHING For the second consecutive season, Ralph Lauren made watches more than an accessory; they became part of the story. At the brand’s Spring 2027 menswear presentation in Milan, timepieces were woven throughout the runway, appearing alongside Purple Label tailoring and Polo’s relaxed collegiate-inspired looks. The move reflects a broader shift as luxury brands increasingly blur the lines between fashion and watchmaking, treating watches as an extension of personal style rather than a finishing touch. Ralph Lauren’s collection drew inspiration from the “gentleman athlete” and classic American heritage, pairing refined suiting, textured fabrics, and effortless sportswear with carefully selected timepieces that reinforced the narrative. ralphlauren.com

THE LAST PRIVATE ISLAND HIDEAWAY Islas Secas is an elite, privately owned archipelago consisting of 14 tucked away islands in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí, bridging modern luxury escapes with a deep commitment to preserving the natural land. Operating as a strict, 100% solar-powered sanctuary surrounded by legally protected waters, it functions less like a hotel and more like an extremely exclusive, private residential estate where guests fund habitat conservation through what they proudly define as nature-driven tourism. The ultimate mark of opulence here is the full private island buyout, which allows a single party to claim the entire 14-island archipelago exclusively. The striking residential architecture balances grand scale with intense eco-responsibility, highlighted by the 8,300-square-foot Casa Cavada estate designed by Hart Howerton, which features a manta-ray-shaped roof, soaring eucalyptus pillars, and volcanic rock walls. Travelers in the know enjoy highly tailored marine excursions, including guided scuba diving safaris through untouched coral reefs alongside whale sharks and manta rays. It stands as the ultimate eco-luxury hideaway, where uncompromising privacy meets a deep commitment to protecting one of the world's most vibrant, untouched ecosystems. islassecas.com

THE PLAZA

NEW YORK’S GRANDEST LEADING MAN

here are luxury hotels, and then there are landmarks. Places so deeply woven into the fabric of a city that checking in feels less like booking a room and more like stepping into hallowed halls.

In New York City, no hotel embodies that distinction quite like the Plaza. Perched at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, the Plaza has spent more than a century doing what New York does best: reinventing itself while somehow remaining timeless. Since opening its doors in 1907, it has welcomed presidents, royalty, business titans, celebrities, and travelers looking to experience Manhattan at its most glamorous. If New York has a front row seat, this is it. Of course, you know the building before you ever know the room. The French Renaissance-inspired façade rises above Grand Army Plaza with the confidence of someone who has never once doubted their place in the world. Yellow cabs blur past. Horse-drawn carriages circle nearby. Central Park stretches out like Manhattan’s backyard. And standing above it all is the Plaza. Equal parts hotel, cultural institution, and architectural celebrity. The word “iconic” gets tossed around far too freely these days. The Plaza actually earns it. Walking through the revolving doors feels like entering another era. Marble floors gleam beneath ornate chandeliers. Gold accents catch the light from every angle. Bellmen move with practiced precision. Even the air seems to carry a subtle sense of occasion.

The guest rooms blend old-world elegance with modern comfort, a balancing act many luxury properties attempt and few truly master. Rich furnishings, spacious layouts, and oversized windows frame views of either Fifth Avenue’s relentless energy or Central Park’s ever-changing landscape. It’s the kind of room that encourages you to linger. Suddenly, that packed New York itinerary feels a little less urgent. Then there’s the location. The Plaza sits at the crossroads of nearly everything visitors dream about when imagining Manhattan. Central Park is directly outside the front door. The luxury boutiques of Fifth Avenue stretch south. Midtown landmarks, Broadway theaters, museums, and world-class dining all sit within easy reach. But what separates the Plaza from countless luxury hotels isn’t simply geography. It’s mythology. For decades, the Plaza has played itself in film and television, often stealing scenes from actors who probably had top billing. Movie lovers know it as the setting for one of cinema’s most memorable childhood adventures in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Long before Kevin McCallister ordered

room service with reckless abandon, Alfred Hitchcock used the hotel in North by Northwest. It appeared in The Great Gatsby, both literally and spiritually, serving as a backdrop for stories of ambition, excess, and reinvention. In many ways, the Plaza has become New York’s favorite character actor. Always recognizable, always elevating the scene. Even literature has claimed a corner suite.

The legendary Eloise, the mischievous six-yearold who “lives” at the Plaza in Kay Thompson’s beloved children’s books, transformed the hotel into a cultural touchstone for generations of readers. Decades later, families still make pilgrimages to experience a little of that magic for themselves. Yet for all its celebrity, the Plaza remains remarkably approachable. That may sound strange for a hotel that has hosted heads of state and Hollywood royalty, but there’s something democratic about New York’s greatest institutions. You may not own a penthouse overlooking Central Park, but for a few days, you can live like someone who does. The Palm Court remains one of the city’s most elegant places for afternoon tea, where silver service and delicate pastries remind guests that slowing down can still feel luxurious. Meanwhile, the hotel’s bars and dining venues provide plenty of opportunities to embrace Manhattan’s enduring love affair with sophisticated indulgence. And perhaps that’s the Plaza’s greatest achievement. It doesn’t chase trends.

While newer luxury properties compete over rooftop pools, social media moments, and whatever buzzword happens to be dominating hospitality this month, the Plaza continues doing what it has always done: delivering a sense of occasion. There is an unmistakable confidence in that approach. The hotel understands something many brands spend fortunes trying to manufacture. That heritage matters. Stories matter. History matters. Luxury isn’t simply about thread counts or square footage. It’s about how a place makes you feel.The Plaza makes you feel like New York.

Not the hurried version racing to catch the subway. Not the stressed version staring at stock prices. The cinematic version. The New York of black-and-white photographs, old-money glamour, Broadway openings, and champagne toasts. The version that inspired novels, films, and countless dreams long before Instagram existed. As twilight settles over Central Park and the lights of Fifth Avenue begin to shimmer, it becomes easy to understand why generations of travelers continue to choose this address. The city changes constantly around it, but the Plaza remains what it has always been. A symbol of New York at its most elegant. Some hotels offer a place to stay. The Plaza offers a place in the story. And in a city filled with unforgettable characters, that may be the most coveted reservation of all.

THE

UIET UTHORITY

ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE SERIES II PROVES THAT THE MOST POWERFUL STATEMENT IS THE ONE MADE IN SILENCE

ith the bar constantly being raised and redefined seemingly every day, Rolls-Royce always seems to enter the conversation with the same quiet confidence: "Oh yeah? Watch this." The Spectre Black Badge Series II does not merely occupy that rarified air. It claims it.

If you are not familiar with the Black Badge line, here is what you need to know. It has always been Rolls-Royce at its most unapologetically confrontational. Where the standard marque presents itself like a cathedral, warm with heritage and solemn with tradition, Black Badge walks in wearing all black, orders the most expensive thing on the menu, and does not bother looking at the price. Series II, however, represents an evolution in that philosophy. This is not darkness for the sake of provocation. This is precision. This is intent. This is what happens when a century-old coachbuilder decides that restraint, while admirable, has its limits. 42

Unveiled as a continuation of the Spectre nameplate, the Series II update sharpens every edge of its predecessor. The silhouette remains one of the most dramatic in the luxury segment: a sweeping fastback roofline, a bonnet long enough to require its own postcode, and flanks that seem to gather shadow regardless of the light around them. In Black Badge specification, that already commanding presence becomes something closer to a statement of intent. The Spirit of Ecstasy, Rolls-Royce's iconic hood ornament, has been rendered entirely in carbon fibre, darker and more aerodynamic than the traditional chrome iteration. It is a small change with an outsized effect, like switching from a white pocket square to a black one. You notice. You are meant to. Series II introduces a new Ethereal Blue exterior finish. Inspired by maritime environments, the hue plays beautifully against an exclusive suite of Iced Black exterior details that intensify the already assertive aesthetic. Nearly all of the motor car's brightwork has been transformed with a matte finish: the grille surround, sideframe finishers, bumper inserts, the Double R Badge of Honour surround,

door handles, and the Spirit of Ecstasy itself. The effect is achieved through a specially developed matte clear coat that produces a refined, satin-like surface. One deliberate exception: the vanes of the Pantheon Grille remain polished. Rolls-Royce's designers made that call to preserve the motor car's identity, and it works. The contrast is subtle. The logic is impeccable. This is the automotive equivalent of a bespoke suit with no visible branding. The people who need to know will know. Everyone else will simply feel it.

In an age of touchscreens and digital surfaces, these physical details carry a different kind of weight. They are reminders that some things are worth making by hand.

Inside is where the Series II makes its most considered statement. Rolls-Royce is introducing Duality Twill, a contemporary interior fabric woven from bamboo-derived rayon and embroidered with an abstract interpretation of the Double R initials, a quiet nod to the marque's founders. In person, it reads as effortlessly sophisticated. What you do not see is the labour behind it: each application involves more than ten miles of thread and up to 2.6 million individual stitches, with assembly taking up to 25 hours per car. For Series II, the design extends to the inner door panels for the first time, meaning it greets you on entry before you have even settled into the seat.

A Rolls-Royce is not supposed to be merely fast. It is supposed to be effortlessly fast, which is an entirely different and in some ways more demanding achievement. The Spectre Black Badge Series II manages to be both, which ought to be impossible and largely is, and yet here we are. The powertrain is fully electric, producing 670 horsepower and dispatching the 0-to-60 run in 4.1 seconds. Those are genuinely quick numbers. More to the point, they do not feel like 4.1 seconds behind the wheel. They feel like the world arranging itself around you. The delivery is immediate and total, the kind of acceleration that arrives without preamble and concludes before you have fully registered that it began.

There is a new dashboard clock as well. Inspired by aircraft instrumentation, it features a black graphic treatment and cast metal hands. Beneath the timepiece sits a solid stainless steel Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, recessed within the same inset.

The motor's character, while present, operates in what can only be described as a confidential register. At low speeds, it is barely there. Under full power, it communicates a composed, resolute surge rather than anything so undignified as drama. The Black Badge tuning adds a degree of assertiveness to that delivery at higher speeds, a subtle signal that the car has considerably more going on beneath its surface than it typically chooses to show. That restraint, the suggestion of capability held deliberately in reserve, is as much a design feature as the Spirit of Ecstasy above the bonnet. We pushed it hard on a long open stretch and came away with the distinct impression that the car was humouring us. The suspension has been recalibrated for Series II to match the Black Badge character: slightly firmer, more communicative, without sacrificing the ride quality that defines the marque. Rolls-Royce describes this as an athletic setup. In practice, it means you begin to feel the road beneath you rather than being entirely insulated from it. The experience remains an order of magnitude more composed than virtually anything else at any price point. But the Series II makes no secret of the fact that it has opinions.

QUICK SPECS

BASE PRICE

From $446,000 USD

POWERTRAIN

Fully Electric

MOTOR OUTPUT

670 hp (500 kW)

BATTERY CAPACITY

101.7 kWh usable

0 TO 60 MPH

4.1 seconds

TOP SPEED

155 mph (electronically limited)

DRIVING RANGE

Up to 390 miles

Black Badge was created in 2016 as RollsRoyce's answer to a question the marque had not previously needed to ask: what does a Rolls-Royce look like when its owner does not want to be seen arriving? The answer, it turned out, was still unmistakably a RollsRoyce. The bones are too good to obscure. But the intent shifts. Where a standard Phantom or Ghost communicates arrival, Black Badge communicates presence. The distinction is a matter of posture. The Spectre adds another dimension to that thinking. As the marque's first series-production

fully electric vehicle, it carries the weight of Rolls-Royce's future. The Black Badge Series II leans into that forward momentum and darkens it, sharpens it, makes it faster and more interesting without sacrificing a single thread of the craftsmanship that has defined the marque for over a century. Its customer base is not buying this car because they are early adopters. They are buying it because they want the definitive expression of where Rolls-Royce has been heading all along. Spend real time with it, cover real distance in it, watch the light shift across its flanks as afternoon becomes evening, and the 46

transactional logic dissolves entirely. What remains is something rarer than exclusivity. It is conviction. The conviction that some things are worth doing extraordinarily well, regardless of whether anyone is watching. At a starting price of $446,000 before the Bespoke programme renders that number largely theoretical, the Spectre Black Badge Series II is not an acquisition for the indecisive. But then, neither is it aimed at them. This is a car for people who know exactly what they want and have arranged their circumstances accordingly. For those people, there is nothing else quite like it on the planet. Which, naturally, is the point.

NOBLEMAN RATING

10/10

09/10

10/10

DESIGN

PERFORMANCE

INNOVATION

10/10

9.8/10

COMFORT

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

TOTAL SCORE

SOME REORTS ARE DESTINATIONS. ROSEWOOD MIRAMAR BEACH IS THE ENTIRE STORY

he camera opens on a quiet stretch of California coastline. Palm trees sway with perfect timing. Waves roll lazily onto the sand. A vintage convertible glides past white cottages wrapped in blooming bougainvillea as the Pacific shimmers beneath a watercolor sunset. It feels like the opening scene of a classic Hollywood romance, the kind that made audiences fall in love with the California dream. Then you realize the director did not build this set. It already exists. Welcome to Rosewood Miramar Beach, where every morning feels like the first frame of a film you never want to end. There are luxury hotels, and then there are places that feel like they were plucked directly from the collective imagination of what California is supposed to be. Rosewood Miramar Beach belongs firmly in the second category. Set on a coveted stretch of sand in Montecito, just south of Santa Barbara, the Forbes Five-Star resort delivers the kind of effortless coastal glamour that most destinations spend decades trying to manufacture. Here, white clapboard cottages line manicured pathways, palm trees sway above oceanfront terraces, 48

and guests drift between beach loungers, unforgettable dinners, and sunset cocktails as if they have nowhere else in the world to be. Which, after a few hours at Miramar, feels entirely reasonable. Montecito has long been a playground for Hollywood royalty, business moguls, and those fortunate enough to call California’s American Riviera home. Rosewood Miramar Beach captures that spirit perfectly. It feels exclusive without being intimidating. Sophisticated without trying too hard. The kind of place where luxury comes wrapped in linen rather than a tuxedo. Spread across 16 oceanfront acres, Rosewood Miramar Beach occupies the historic grounds of the legendary Miramar by the Sea Hotel, a beloved coastal retreat that welcomed travelers for generations before

being completely reimagined under the Rosewood flag. Today, the resort features more than 150 guestrooms and suites tucked inside a collection of beach houses, bungalows, and manorstyle accommodations that feel more like a wealthy friend’s oceanfront estate than a traditional hotel. The design strikes a rare balance. There are hints of the Hamptons, touches of old Hollywood, and an unmistakable Southern California soul. Crisp whites, soft blues, natural wood, and endless ocean views create an atmosphere that feels polished without ever becoming pretentious. The property is expansive enough to spend an entire weekend exploring, yet intimate enough that it never loses its relaxed rhythm. Between the adults-only pool, family pool, beach club, luxury boutiques, spa, fitness center, and direct beach access, there is always something to discover without ever feeling like you need a schedule. Choosing the right room is less about avoiding a bad option and more about deciding how close you want to be to the Pacific.

The Beach House accommodations are the undeniable headliners. Positioned directly along the shoreline, these rooms and suites offer front row seats to the ocean with private terraces that practically insist on slow mornings and even slower evenings. Wake to the sound of waves, slide open the doors, and suddenly the line between indoors and outdoors disappears. For travelers craving additional privacy, the bungalow accommodations provide a secluded residential feel nestled among beautifully landscaped gardens. They deliver all the comforts of a luxury resort while convincing you that, for a few days at least, this charming coastal cottage is actually yours. If you’re celebrating something special, the Beach House Terrace Suite is worth the splurge. Equal parts old Hollywood glamour and modern beachfront luxury, it delivers the kind of oceanfront living usually reserved for those fortunate enough to own property in Montecito. Oversized marble bathrooms, luxurious linens,

spacious outdoor living areas, and thoughtful details remind you that Rosewood understands luxury is often found in the little things. Of course, no stay here is complete without making dinner a priority. Caruso’s has become one of California’s most sought-after reservations, and for good reason. Sitting just steps above the sand, the restaurant pairs refined coastal cuisine with panoramic Pacific views that threaten to steal the spotlight from every beautifully plated dish. Arrive before sunset, order a glass of local wine, and watch as the sky slowly performs one final show before dinner begins. AMA Sushi offers an entirely different but equally memorable experience. Fresh seafood, precise technique, and understated elegance make it feel like the kind of neighborhood restaurant every city wishes it had. Meanwhile, The Manor Bar may be the resort’s best kept secret. Rich wood interiors, curated artwork, bookshelves, and expertly crafted cocktails create a space that feels more like an exclusive private club than a hotel lounge. It is exactly where you want to end the evening after a day in the California sun.

The beauty of Rosewood Miramar Beach is that it never pressures you to fill your itinerary. You can spend the morning walking barefoot along one of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches before settling into a lounger with nothing more ambitious planned than finishing a good book. Alternate between the Pacific and the adults-only pool. Slip away for an afternoon massage at Sense Spa. Borrow a bicycle and explore Montecito’s quiet streets lined with designer boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. Or make the short drive into Santa Barbara, where Spanish Colonial architecture, waterfront parks, and world-class

wineries provide enough reasons to linger for another day. Still, the greatest luxury at Rosewood Miramar Beach may be permission to simply slow down. There is something refreshingly timeless about this place. It is not trying to be the trendiest resort on the coast or the loudest voice in luxury hospitality. Instead, it quietly perfects the details that matter most. Warm service. Beautiful surroundings. Exceptional food. Comfortable elegance. Moments that invite you to put your phone away and simply look out at the ocean. Like the best films ever made, Rosewood Miramar Beach leaves you with a feeling that stays long after the credits roll. The scenery is unforgettable, the cast never misses a beat, and every scene somehow feels worthy of an encore.

Photos by @tomclaeren

INSIDE THE WORLD OF TOM CLAEREN WORDS BY TOM BURLESON

here is a difference between photographing the world of luxury and actually understanding how it works. Tom Claeren knows that difference well.

For years, Tom has moved through the worlds of superyachts, supercars, fine watches, art and global events with a camera in hand and an eye for the extraordinary. But what becomes clear when you spend time with him is that the man behind the imagery is just as interesting as the images themselves. He is driven without being distracted by the noise. Ambitious, but patient. Smart enough to understand the details and confident enough to see the bigger picture. And, perhaps most importantly, he is genuinely curious about the people, places and experiences that make this world worth exploring in the first place. That curiosity has taken him a long way from his early days attending yacht shows and private viewings. Today, his work has placed him at the center of some of the world’s most exclusive experiences, including Ultimate Superyacht, his signature hospitality platform during the Monaco Grand Prix. But even with all the access, all the ambition and all the extraordinary settings, Tom seems less interested in simply showing people what luxury looks like than in understanding why it matters. We were excited to know what he sees when he steps aboard a 72-metre superyacht. What makes an experience truly exceptional. Why the superyacht has become one of the most coveted rooms in the world. Where luxury is heading next. And, perhaps most interestingly, what keeps a man who spends his days surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful and exclusive things grounded.

creator; I was experiencing it as a client, living on board and managing every aspect of the organisation, hospitality and guest journey. Today, that understanding influences both the way I produce an event and the way I capture a yacht on camera.

Our conversation took us from the deck of Stella Maris in Monaco to a small village in the South of France, from Formula 1 and hypercars to family, discipline and the simple advice to keep moving forward when the results are not immediately visible.

HOW HAS THE ULTIMATE SUPERYACHT EXPERIENCE EVOLVED ALONGSIDE THAT SPECTACLE, AND WHAT ARE YOU BUILDING TOWARD WITH EACH NEW EDITION?

It is a conversation with a man who is clearly building something bigger than a personal brand. A man with the vision to dream ambitiously, the discipline to see those dreams through and the humility to understand that the best experiences are ultimately about more than what you own. They are about what you create, who you share them with and how they make you feel.

From day one, the vision was to create the most distinctive and exclusive hospitality platform on a superyacht during the Monaco Grand Prix. Placing a hypercar on the helipad, creating exhibitions with monumental artworks, producing after-parties with internationally recognised DJs and welcoming Formula 1 drivers, celebrities, entrepreneurs, artists and members of our international network have all helped make the platform unique.

HOW DID THOSE EARLY DAYS ON BOARD SHAPE THE WAY YOU SEE AND SHOOT THE SUPERYACHT WORLD TODAY? There is always something new to learn in yachting because the industry is constantly evolving. In my early days, I attended as many yacht shows and private viewings as possible, and I still do, to understand the market, the differences in design, scale and onboard experience.

It has become successful not only as a hospitality experience, but also as a global media platform and an activation space for our corporate partners.

Step by step, I became involved in content production and media projects for yachts and yacht-management companies. Eventually, I created my own events, chartering yachts of more than 50 metres in Monaco and Abu Dhabi.

Each edition presents a new challenge because we set the bar very high from the beginning. Our objective is to continue developing the concept through larger yachts, stronger creative activations and increasingly ambitious productions.

That experience gave me a completely different understanding of the industry. I was no longer observing it only as a content

Our first edition took place aboard the 55-metre Quinta Essentia, followed by the 52-metre Seven Sins, the 60-metre Sarastar, the 66-metre AHS in Abu Dhabi and, most recently, the 72-metre Stella Maris for Monaco 2026. 54

Photos by @tomclaeren

YOU’VE BUILT A REPUTATION FOR CINEMATIC, HIGH-END PRODUCTION RATHER THAN JUST INFLUENCER CONTENT. WHERE DID THAT EYE COME FROM, AND HOW HAS YOUR APPROACH TO DIRECTING AND SHOOTING EVOLVED AS THE BRANDS AND THE STAKES HAVE GOTTEN BIGGER? I have always loved high-end photography and cinema. I find both visually inspiring, and from the beginning I wanted to translate that passion into my own content and creative vision. My objective was to create beautiful, professional imagery that would work not only on my own platforms, but that luxury brands could confidently use within their own communications. Over the years, the contracts and projects have become larger, which naturally means bigger teams, more preparation and greater pressure. It can also mean producing fewer projects, as each one requires much more attention. At the same time, I never want to lose the spontaneity of smaller productions. Some of the most beautiful and creatively interesting content can still be created quickly, intuitively and on the move. FOR SOMEONE STEPPING ONTO A CHARTER FOR THE FIRST TIME, WHAT SEPARATES A WEEK ON THE WATER THAT FEELS EFFORTLESS AND ELEGANT FROM ONE THAT SIMPLY MISSES THE MARK? Preparation is one of the most important elements of a successful charter. You need to understand the client, their expectations and the type of experience they want before selecting the yacht. A family looking for a peaceful and relaxed holiday will require a completely different yacht and itinerary from a group of friends wanting a more active or social experience. When you choose a yacht, you are also choosing its crew, and the crew is one of the most important elements of the experience on board. This is why it is essential to understand not only the yacht’s specifications, design and facilities, but also the people operating it. When the yacht, crew, itinerary and guests are properly matched, the experience feels completely effortless.

"THE MOST MEANINGFUL FORMS OF LUXURY ARE OFTEN CONNECTED TO EXPERIENCE" YOUR CONTENT IS CINEMATIC, NOT JUST GLOSSY. WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO ACTUALLY UNDERSTAND ABOUT THIS WORLD ONCE THE CAMERAS STOP ROLLING?

YOU MOVE FLUIDLY BETWEEN SUPERCARS, FINE WATCHES AND YACHTS IN YOUR WORK. DO YOU SEE A COMMON THREAD IN HOW THE TRULY DISCERNING COLLECT AND EXPERIENCE LUXURY ACROSS THOSE WORLDS?

I want people to feel inspired by the content we create and motivated to become a better version of themselves.

These worlds are often connected by passion. For many collectors, yachts, cars, watches and art are not simply possessions. They represent craftsmanship, engineering, design and emotion.

It is not simply about displaying luxury. It is about creating beautiful imagery that communicates ambition, creativity and possibility.

They also create a sense of belonging among people who appreciate beautifully made objects and the stories behind them.

I want people to understand that exceptional experiences are not necessarily accidental. They can be the result of vision, work, consistency and dedication. WHY HAS THE SUPERYACHT REPLACED THE MEMBERS’ CLUB AS THE ROOM EVERYONE WANTS TO BE IN?

Ultimately, the most meaningful forms of luxury are often connected to experience: the emotion of driving a remarkable car, sailing somewhere with family and friends, or sharing a memorable moment around an exceptional object.

Superyachts are exclusive by nature. Access is limited, capacities are small and the cost of chartering or owning one remains extremely high.

Luxury is increasingly moving beyond ownership and toward experience, emotion and shared memories.

Beyond that exclusivity, yachts create a unique feeling of freedom. They allow you to move between some of the world’s most beautiful destinations while enjoying an exceptional level of service, privacy, design and comfort.

YOU’VE WORKED WITH SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN YACHT BUILDING. WHAT MAKES A BRAND PARTNERSHIP FEEL AUTHENTIC TO THIS LIFESTYLE RATHER THAN SIMPLY PARKED ON TOP OF IT?

In that sense, a yacht can become a private members’ club without a fixed address. It brings together a carefully selected community in an environment that is intimate, constantly changing and almost impossible to replicate on land.

For a partnership to feel authentic, it has to be genuine from the beginning. Both parties must be fully engaged and committed to creating something meaningful, whether that takes the form of a production, an event or a larger creative activation.

I choose to collaborate with brands I believe in and that align with my vision. The best partners understand the project, trust the creative process and give me enough freedom to express my own point of view.

WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? To remain consistent and continue moving forward, even when the results are not immediately visible.

When the relationship is based on shared values and a common ambition, the partnership becomes part of the experience rather than simply branding placed around it.

A career is rarely built through one perfect opportunity. It is built through years of work, relationships, discipline and the ability to keep improving.

WHO HAS BEEN THE GREATEST MENTOR IN YOUR LIFE?

I have also learned that it is important to think ambitiously while remaining patient. Some projects need time before the vision, credibility and resources come together.

Photos by @tomclaeren

I would not name one specific mentor, but I have always been inspired by great actors and filmmakers.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE A NOBLEMAN IN YOUR OWN WORDS?

I admire the ability of an actor to communicate emotion, inhabit completely different characters and make an audience believe in another world. That capacity to tell a story and create emotion has influenced the way I think about imagery, production and performance.

A NOBLEMAN is a modern gentleman with taste, discernment and the confidence to move comfortably within the highest levels of culture, luxury and experience.

I have also learned a great deal from the entrepreneurs, creators and industry professionals I have met throughout my career. Different people have influenced different parts of my journey.

However, true sophistication is not defined only by access or status. It is also reflected in the way someone treats people, carries responsibility and remains respectful and humble. 59

WHAT KEEPS YOU GROUNDED IN A WORLD BUILT AROUND ACCESS AND ASPIRATION? My family and my roots keep me grounded. I come from a modest family and a very small village in the South of France. I still love returning there after major events or long periods of travel. It allows me to reset, slow down and reconnect with a quieter and simpler environment. That contrast is very important to me.

WHERE DO YOU SEE THE SUPERYACHT WORLD HEADING NEXT, WHETHER IN DESIGN OR CHARTER CULTURE?

WHAT IS ONE HABIT THAT HAS HELPED YOU MOST IN YOUR CAREER? Sport has probably been the most important habit for me.

I believe we will continue to see growth in yacht-based events and branded yacht experiences, with global luxury companies increasingly using yachts as platforms for hospitality, communication and storytelling.

It helps me reset mentally, maintain discipline and keep my energy levels high. Combined with breathwork, good nutrition and occasional fasting, it has helped me manage demanding schedules and periods of intense pressure.

This is something we have already developed through our strong positioning within Formula 1. The yacht is no longer simply the setting; it becomes a complete marketing, media and experiential platform.

When the work becomes overwhelming, taking care of my physical and mental state allows me to return with much greater focus.

Photos by @tomclaeren

Our objective is now to expand beyond Formula 1 by creating our own events with partner brands, as well as producing bespoke yacht experiences directly for brands. This is a natural evolution of the knowledge, relationships and operational experience we have accumulated in the yachting industry over the years.

M/Y STELLA MARIS

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION WHEN YOU STEPPED ABOARD THIS YACHT? I first visited Stella Maris during the Monaco Yacht Show around two years ago. The first thing I said to my broker was that I would love to charter her for one of our future events. The volume on board, the sleek design and the combination of 72 metres and 2,114 gross tonnes made her feel like the perfect stage for my vision. At the time, however, it was far from certain that we would be able to make it happen. The budget was significant, and we did not know whether the owner would accept the scale and complexity of our event requirements. Two years later, following a successful series of events and the references we had established, we received the approval to move forward. Securing Stella Maris represented a major achievement for us and our most ambitious event charter to date. ONCE ON BOARD, WHAT DETAILS IMMEDIATELY STOOD OUT TO YOU? The volume and sense of space were the first things that stood out. The large windows bring an extraordinary amount of natural light into the interiors, while the size of the helipad and the overall deck layout gave us the perfect platform for our event and production. The positive attitude of the crew also made a strong impression. They understood that this was not a traditional charter and embraced the challenge of being part of an exceptional event. EVERY GREAT YACHT HAS A PERSONALITY. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THIS ONE? Bold, elegant and fearless. She has the presence of a true flagship, but she is also adaptable and ready to take on ambitious challenges.

Photos by @tomclaeren

RAPID FIRE

DREAM YACHT TO CHARTER FOR A WEEK: Black Pearl, the 107-metre sailing yacht. MONACO OR SAINT-TROPEZ: Monaco, with a few Saint-Tropez escapes during the summer. BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE: YACHT DECK OR PADDOCK AT THE GRAND PRIX? The yacht deck, of course. FAVOURITE FILM: Dune. I loved the first two films and the scale, imagery and atmosphere of that world. I am looking forward to seeing the next chapter.

NOBLEMAN'S

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA In Issue 33, we introduced you to NOBLEMAN’s Top Chefs of California, celebrating the talent behind some of the state’s most compelling tables. Consider this the second course. We’re continuing the conversation with another group of chefs whose work reflects the depth, diversity, and ambition of California cooking. From the ingredients they refuse to compromise on to the details guests may never notice, we asked what drives them, what inspires them, and what it really takes to create a meal worth remembering.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

RILEY HUDDLESTON

iley Huddleston's career is a portrait in productive restlessness. Launching a French fry concept in Idaho that earned Travel and Leisure's Best Fries in America. Creating the menu and kitchen cocktail program for Chicago’s largest indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge. At twenty-four earning the title as Executive Chef and Beverage Director of Timber Cove Resort. To name a few.

Huddleston now serves as Executive Chef-Partner of Lido House, overseeing The Mayor's Table. Nothing about Huddleston's career is accidental. Every restaurant, every role, every influence has been a deliberate move toward a single vision: hospitality as a complete experience, where the food, the room, and the story of the place arrive at the table together.

LIDO HOUSE HOTEL KAIYA NEWPORT BEACH THE MAYORS TABLE

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

MY GOAL IS TO CREATE AN ATMOSPHERE WHERE GUESTS FEEL CAREFREE AND COMFORTABLE MAKING THEIR TIME WITH US MEMORABLE AND SPECIAL."

IN HIS OWN WORDS HOW DO YOU DESIGN A MENU FOR A SPECIFIC PLACE OR SETTING?

WHAT'S YOUR PROCESS WHEN CREATING A NEW DISH?

When designing a menu for a specific place or setting, I always look to the local environment and nature for inspiration. These elements help me shape a menu that's truly unique to its location. I also delve into the history of the area, which allows me to highlight distinctive flavors and techniques, making the concept even more impactful. This approach encourages my team of chefs to explore new culinary ideas and expand their skill sets.

Creating a new dish begins with an ideation session alongside my team. We brainstorm flavors, techniques, and sources of inspiration, allowing everyone to contribute their perspectives. Once we refine the concept, we move into development, which typically takes about six to eight weeks. This hands-on process ensures that every dish we add to the menu is thoroughly tested and perfected.

WHAT DOES HOSPITALITY MEAN TO YOU? Hospitality, to me, is all about anticipating the needs of our guests and providing thoughtful touches before they even realize what they want. It's embedded in every aspect, from the design and flow of our spaces, to the materials, music, service standards, and of course, our food and beverage offerings. My goal is to create an atmosphere where guests feel carefree and comfortable, making their time with us memorable and special.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

DANIEL HOHNG THE PARK CLUB, COSTA MESA

aniel Hohng is a chef who has earned his credentials in the most exacting kitchens in the world and then channeled that experience into something quietly extraordinary. Hohng's resume reads like a masterclass. Today he leads the culinary program at The Park Club, Orange County's

premier private business and social club in the heart of Costa Mesa's arts district, adjacent to Segerstrom Center for the Arts and South Coast Plaza. His philosophy mirrors the venue itself: refined without pretension, artful without affectation. He treats each ingredient with the same respect a painter gives to light, believing that the finest materials, handled with care, will do the majority of the work.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

IN HIS OWN WORDS WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE ARE YOU TRYING TO CREATE FOR YOUR GUESTS?

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION OUTSIDE THE KITCHEN?

At The Park Club, I'm creating an experience that feels elevated but effortless. It's luxury without intimidation. I want members to feel taken care of from the moment they sit down, where every detail, from pacing to plating, feels natural and intentional. It's about delivering something memorable, but also something they genuinely enjoy, not just admire. There's a balance between comfort and sophistication. You can have a perfect crudo, a beautifully executed pasta, or even a great burger, but it all has to feel like it belongs in a cohesive, thoughtful experience.

Living in Costa Mesa, I'm constantly inspired by California's diversity, produce, culture, and lifestyle. Outside the kitchen, I look at design, hospitality, and travel. Places that understand flow, energy, and how people actually want to experience a space. Even something like the feeling of a great lounge or a well-run club influences how I think about a menu. And honestly, a lot of inspiration comes from the members themselves and what they crave, what excites them, and how dining is evolving in a social setting.

WHAT SEPARATES A GOOD DISH FROM A GREAT ONE?

A GOOD DISH IS TECHNICALLY SOUND. A GREAT DISH CONNECTS." 71

A good dish is technically sound. A great dish connects. It comes down to intention and balance. Every element on the plate needs a purpose, but it also has to come together in a way that feels seamless, not overworked. For me, a great dish also has clarity. You taste it, and it makes sense immediately, but there's still depth that keeps you thinking about it after. That's what makes people come back.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

ALEX ESPINOZA

BOTTEGA, NAPA VALLEY

lex Espinoza grew up on his family's farm in Guatemala, the youngest of four children in a household where food was never separate from daily life. He spent his childhood at his mother's side, learning open-fire cooking, overnight stews, and the patient work of making cheese by hand. A career in the kitchen was not the plan, but a move to Santa Barbara at fifteen set him on a different course entirely. He landed in Napa Valley soon after, walking into Tra Vigne to apply for a

front-of-house position and walking out with a job in the kitchen instead, offered on the spot by Chef Michael Reardon. It proved to be the turn that defined his career. Over the next decade, working alongside chefs Eric Torrealba, Francesco Torre, and Nash Cognetti. Espinoza joined Bottega full-time in 2021, working directly under founder Michael Chiarello to rebuild the team in the wake of the pandemic. When Chiarello passed away, Espinoza became the first Executive Chef in Bottega's history other than its founder, a role he carries with evident pride.

IN HIS OWN WORDS

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

NAPA VALLEY CARRIES ENORMOUS CULINARY WEIGHT. HOW DO YOU CARVE OUT YOUR OWN IDENTITY INSIDE ONE OF THE MOST STORIED FOOD DESTINATIONS IN THE WORLD? Making delicious food is only half the challenge. At Bottega, I have an incredible team across every department, and the ownership support of Rich Frank and John Hansen. Our focus is soulful Italian food built on California's seasonal bounty, and hospitality is in our DNA — we've been open since 2008, and we're proud of our consistency. I'm the only chef in Napa Valley working with Senku Wagyu from Australia, and pairing it with a Napa Cabernet is a true love story for our guests. Our pastas are made inhouse, and to me, delicious pasta is five percent creativity and ninety-five percent ingredients, technique, and execution.

WHAT DOES GUATEMALAN HERITAGE LOOK LIKE WHEN IT MEETS THE REFINEMENT OF NAPA'S WINE COUNTRY CUISINE? My time on the Central Coast instilled a deep belief in sourcing local, fresh ingredients, but it started long before that. As a kid in Guatemala, my family grew our own food — we rarely stepped foot in a grocery store. That philosophy followed me to Santa Barbara and then to Napa, and it influences every dish we create at Bottega now. My grandmother and mother were masters of slow cooking, roasting, and braising, pulling together incredible sauces with a patience I didn't appreciate until I was doing it myself. Bottega has always been a gathering place for growers, vintners, and travelers, and that soulful, boundary-pushing spirit is what I try to honor every night.

HOSPITALITY MEANS SETTING ASIDE YOUR OWN EGO." 73

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN A DISH BELONGS ON YOUR MENU? Bottega has decades of regulars, and they're the first people I go to for honest feedback. A new dish usually starts with something beautiful coming into season, or with inspiration from a recent trip to Italy. Hospitality means setting aside your own ego and respecting what people love, while still keeping the menu alive — I don't cook for myself, I cook for my guests. Right now, I love our seared duck breast with stone fruit and a cherry-apricot mostarda, and we're about to introduce lobster croquettes topped with caviar to the bar menu. These are dishes I can't promise will stay all year, so it's worth coming in soon

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

IN HIS OWN WORDS

KEI CONCEPTS HAS BUILT SOMETHING RARE: A HOSPITALITY GROUP WITH A GENUINE CULINARY IDENTITY. HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN THAT CREATIVE VOICE ACROSS MULTIPLE CONCEPTS? The creative voice starts with culture. Every concept we build is different, but they all come from the same place. My experience as an immigrant, my connection to Vietnamese culture, and a belief that food can be a form of storytelling. Where many restaurant groups build around trends, we've always built around identity. Whether it's NEP Café, VOX Kitchen & Bar, SUP Noodle Bar, or INI Ristorante, each concept has its own personality, but they're all rooted in a clear point of view and a respect for culture. As we've grown, I've learned that maintaining creativity requires structure. Culture doesn't scale naturally, you have to intentionally build the systems, leadership, and communication that protect what made a concept special in the first place. Creativity drives the concepts; structure is what allows them to endure.

VIET NGUYEN KEI CONCEPTS

iet Nguyen has spent the last decade proving that a restaurant group can carry a real point of view. As founder of Kei Concepts, he's built not one restaurant but a small constellation of them. Each restaurant has its own personality, yet all rooted in the same source: his experience as an immigrant, his connection to Vietnamese culture, and a conviction that food is a form of storytelling.

Where many restaurant groups chase trends, Nguyen has built around identity instead. The belief is that culture, unlike a menu, doesn't scale on its own. As Kei Concepts has grown, he's learned to build the systems, leadership, and communication that protect what made each concept special in the first place, so that creativity and structure move forward together rather than in competition.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

WHEN YOU LOOK AHEAD, WHAT DOES THE NEXT CHAPTER OF KEI CONCEPTS LOOK LIKE, AND WHAT IS DRIVING YOU TOWARD IT?

COOKING WITH INTENTION STARTS WITH UNDERSTANDING WHAT YOU'RE TRYING TO MAKE PEOPLE FEEL."

The next chapter is about bringing Kei Concepts beyond Orange County and introducing our brands to new audiences and communities. We've spent the last decade building a strong foundation in Little Saigon, and we're now ready to expand into new markets while continuing to evolve the concepts themselves. What excites me is sharing our perspective on hospitality, culture, and dining with people who may not be familiar with what we've built here. While continuing to invest in the community that shaped us, because Little Saigon will always be the heart of Kei Concepts. Growth creates responsibility, so as we expand, we're investing in our people, leadership development, and systems to make sure the quality and culture that defined our brands grow alongside the business. What motivates me is building something that can scale without losing its soul. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO COOK WITH INTENTION, AND HOW DO YOU BUILD THAT INTO EVERYTHING YOUR TEAM PRODUCES? Cooking with intention starts with understanding what you're trying to make people feel. A dish can be technically perfect and still be forgettable. The food I remember most is tied to emotion, memory, culture, or a specific moment in time. Cooking is one of the most overlooked forms of the liberal arts, and that's the mindset I try to instill in our team. We don't just teach recipes or techniques; we talk about why a dish exists, what inspired it, what emotion it's meant to evoke, and how it reflects our culture. When chefs understand the intention behind what they're creating, they stop cooking mechanically and start creating something people genuinely connect with.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

JOJO RUIZ

ose “JoJo” Ruiz started his career as a sixteen-year-old dishwasher at a San Diego sushi bar. What followed was a relentless climb to the top of his game. He is currently the Executive Chef and Partner of the incredible San Diego restaurants: Lionfish, Serea, and SET Steak & Sushi.

SET SUSHI & STEAK, NEWPORT BEACH

A James Beard Foundation Smart Catch Leader, Ruiz has built his reputation on

the conviction that the best seafood cookery is also the most responsible. His restaurants hold Surfrider Foundation Ocean Friendly certification. He built zero-waste practices into his kitchens from day one. Ruiz operates with a teamfirst mentality that is as much philosophy as management style. The stronger the team, he says, the better the food.

IN HIS OWN WORDS

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

HOW DO YOU APPROACH BLENDING DIFFERENT CULINARY STYLES? When I approach blending different culinary styles, I start by thinking about the overall experience of the dish, not just the taste, but how it looks and how it makes someone feel. I spend time conceptualizing flavor combinations and presentation before even stepping into execution. From there, I focus on balance, making sure the different influences complement each other rather than compete. It's about respecting each cuisine while creating something that feels cohesive, not forced. Taste is critical, but so is the visual impact and the emotional response the dish creates as a whole.

WHAT ROLE DOES STORYTELLING PLAY INYOUR MENU?

WE DON'T JUST CREATE DISHES; WE BUILD AN ENTIRE NARRATIVE AROUND THE RESTAURANT."

Storytelling is the foundation of everything we do. We don't just create dishes; we build an entire narrative around the restaurant. That story influences every detail, from the menu and ingredients to the design, glassware, flatware, and plating. The goal is for every touchpoint to feel intentional and connected, so when a guest walks in, dines, and leaves, they've experienced something cohesive and memorable. Not just a meal, but a story brought to life. 77

WHAT KEEPS YOU PUSHING FORWARD AS A CHEF? My family is a huge part of what drives me. They're my foundation and motivation every day. At the same time, being part of a company that supports me the way I support them pushes me to keep growing and delivering at a high level. That combination of personal purpose and professional alignment keeps me focused, motivated, and always looking to evolve as a chef.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

FOOD IS A CONDUIT THAT BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER."

BRANDON HALL THYME WELL SPENT, COSTA MESA

randon Hall built Thyme Well Spent on a simple, uncompromising belief: that a meal done right is not just about the food on the plate, but the intention behind every decision that leads to it. A husband-and-wife culinary venture rooted in Orange County's vibrant farm network, Thyme Well Spent has earned its reputation as one of Southern California's most soughtafter private dining and catering experiences, beloved by corporate clients and discerning private hosts who recognize the difference between food that is technically competent and food that is genuinely alive. What distinguishes his cooking is the accumulation of small decisions that no guest will ever articulate but every guest will feel. A sauce reduced one minute longer than necessary. A garnish that required twice the work. The bread that arrives warm without being asked. For Hall, those invisible choices are not extra credit. They are the entire point.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

IN HIS OWN WORDS WHAT DOES A MEAL DONE RIGHT MEAN TO YOU TODAY? I feel that a meal done right is when our guests can escape the fast pace of society and live in the moment, and I believe that food is a conduit that brings people together. A meal done right should feel like an orchestra where everything is moving in symphony. HOW HAS YOUR APPROACH TO FOOD CHANGED OVER TIME? When I first got into the industry, I was really fascinated with molecular gastronomy, so I put my efforts in that direction. Over time, I realized that food should be fresh and seasonal, and comforting with a progressive twist.

With that, I have changed my approach towards molecular gastronomy to enhance my food. I believe that the seasonality of food speaks for itself and a plate should be colorful, fresh, and energetic. WHAT'S ONE DETAIL MOST GUESTS WOULD NEVER NOTICE BUT YOU ALWAYS DO? I’m very OCD so cleanliness and an organized kitchen during service are incredibly important to me. I don’t work well in chaos, so having everything labeled and in an orderly fashion really sets me up for success and I believe it shows on the plate. I’ve always loved the saying, "Never let them see you sweat."

JIMMY MATIZ

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

MATIZ CUISINE, LOS ANGELES

immy Matiz built Matiz Cuisine around an idea most chefs never get to test: that restaurant-caliber food belongs anywhere a client wants it, whether that's a private residence, the deck of a yacht, or thirty thousand feet in the air. Born and raised in Colombia, Matiz brings a cuisine shaped equally by his heritage, classical European technique, and the exceptional seasonal ingredients California affords him. A winner of Food Network's Chopped and a graduate of Hospitality Business Management, Matiz trained in some of the world's most demanding kitchens, including El Celler de Can Roca in Spain and under acclaimed chef Michael Mina. That foundation now serves a discerning clientele of business leaders, professional athletes, entertainers, and ultra-high-net-worth families throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, and Southern California's private aviation community.

IN HIS OWN WORDS YOUR COOKING CARRIES A VERY DISTINCT CULTURAL POINT OF VIEW. HOW DO YOU TRANSLATE THAT IDENTITY INTO A DINING EXPERIENCE FOR A CALIFORNIA AUDIENCE?

Whether he's plating an intimate dinner in a private home or building a bespoke menu for a private aircraft, Matiz is known for pairing restaurant-level execution with an uncompromising standard of hospitality, thoughtful storytelling, meticulous detail, and a commitment to making every guest experience feel deeply personal.

My cooking is rooted in my heritage, but it's been shaped by the places and people I've encountered throughout my career. Rather than recreating traditional dishes exactly as I grew up with them, I focus on translating that flavor, warmth, and hospitality through California's incredible seasonal ingredients and a more refined culinary approach.

TOP CHEFS OF CALIFORNIA

WHAT IS THE ONE ELEMENT OF YOUR CUISINE THAT YOU WOULD NEVER COMPROMISE, NO MATTER THE SETTING OR THE GUEST? Ingredient quality. No amount of technique can replace an exceptional product. Whether it's a simple vegetable or a luxury ingredient, great cooking starts with sourcing the best possible ingredients and treating them with respect. HOW HAS YOUR COOKING CHANGED SINCE YOU FIRST STARTED? Early in my career, I was focused on showcasing technique. Today, I value restraint far more. My cooking has become simpler, more ingredient-driven, and more focused on creating a meaningful experience than on impressing anyone.

PHOTOS BY JIMMY MATIZ

MY COOKING IS ROOTED IN MY HERITAGE." 81

NOBLEMAN'S GUIDE TO YACHT LIFE Summer remains the season most associated with travel, and for good reason. Longer days, warmer waters, and a natural lull in obligations make it the most popular window for getting away, whether that means a long weekend or a full month abroad. For those planning their summer travel, yacht chartering continues to stand apart as one of the more distinctive ways to spend that time, offering a level of privacy, flexibility, and service that few other forms of travel can match. Unlike a fixed hotel stay, a charter yacht moves with the traveler. Itineraries can shift day to day, cruising grounds can be swapped mid-trip, and the entire experience, from meals to excursions, is built around the guests on board rather than a set schedule. It is this flexibility, paired with the caliber of service typical on a well-run charter, that continues to draw repeat clients back to yachting summer after summer. NOBLEMAN has put together this season’s list of standout charter yachts, spanning a range of sizes, builders, and price points. The group below includes several yachts that have long been fixtures on the charter market, alongside two new arrivals that entered service this year.

S T E LL A

M A R I S

The 236-foot Italian-built stunner is a floating playground designed for serious escape. Stella Maris welcomes 12 guests across seven cabins, backed by a 19-person crew ready to make every moment feel effortless. Inside, a full spa, sauna, gym, and hammam set the stage for total relaxation, while the beach club and generous pool make life at sea feel more like a private resort. When it’s time to turn up the adrenaline, the toy collection delivers with WaveRunners, Seabobs, a Flyboard, waterslide, wakeboards, kayaks, and more. Add a deck Jacuzzi, sleek interiors, and a 5,500-nautical-mile range, and STELLA MARIS is built for going far without ever leaving luxury behind.

$650,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 2 3 6 F E E T B U I L D E R / Y E A R : V I A R E G G I O S U P E RYAC H T S , 2 0 1 5 G U E ST S : 1 2 +

E L E M E N T S This is less a yacht than a very well funded argument that you never need to leave the boat. Twelve en suite staterooms, a crew that never seems to sleep, and decks so vast you'll want a golf cart. There is a cinema, a spa, a massage room, a library, a card room, and yes, a helipad, because apparently the tender felt too pedestrian. The real flex is the master suite: front and center, panoramic views, its own private pool, because sharing a pool with eleven other people was never really on the table. From shaded lounges to sun-blasted decks to a beach club with twin swim platforms, ELEMENTS is proof that more is, in fact, more.

$900,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 2 62 F E E T B U I L D E R / Y E A R : YAC H T L E Y, 2 0 1 9 G U E ST S : 1 2 | C H A RT E R : I YC

P O L E S T A R Polestar is what happens when an explorer yacht goes to finishing school. She will take you anywhere, Italian flair fully intact, sleeping 12 across six cabins including a fullbeam master and a VIP suite that could pass for its own apartment. Inside, think clean lines and soft tones, the kind of interior that makes you lower your voice without meaning to. There is a private cinema and a full wellness suite, sauna, hammam, massage room, the works, for when adventuring starts to feel like a chore. Outside, a sun deck Jacuzzi and a beach club loaded with toys keep things from getting too serious. POLESTAR proves range and glamour were never mutually exclusive.

$748,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 2 3 0 B U I L D E R / Y E A R : RO S S I N AV I , 2 02 1 G U E ST S : 1 2 | C H A RT E R : I YC

M A L I A A 78-meter case for modern elegance, MALIA hosts 12 guests across eight cabins, including a full-beam owner's suite with its own dressing room, because closets matter. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the main saloon with light and sea views, while a glass-edged infinity pool and glass-bottomed Jacuzzi turn the decks into something closer to art installations. An elevator glides between levels, in case walking felt excessive, connecting guests to standout spaces like the upper lounge, complete with its own dramatic glass chandelier and a sound system built for a proper night in. Down at sea level, the spa and beach club bring the sauna, hammam, and massage room. MALIA doesn't just do sophistication, she commits to it.

$750,000/week + expenses L E N GT H : 2 5 4 F E E T B U I L D E R / Y E A R : G O L D E N YAC H T S , 2 02 3 G U E ST S : 1 2 | C H A RT E R : I YC

S H E R A K H A N Built for grand adventures and even grander guest lists, SHERAKHAN sleeps 26 across 13 uniquely styled cabins, making her the rare yacht equipped to actually handle your entire extended family, plus the family you wish you had. Onboard: a glass-bottom Jacuzzi, a full spa, a beauty salon, a gym, and a toy collection that would embarrass most marinas. Her interior strikes a real balance between opulence and comfort, and her explorer pedigree means she is just as credible in Antarctica as she is in the Caribbean. SHERAKHAN is a floating five-star hotel that happens to also be a boat.

$595,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 2 2 8 F E E T BUILDER/YEAR: VUYK & ZONEN, CO N V E RT E D 2 0 0 6 G U E ST S : 2 6 | C H A RT E R : I YC

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S H A D O W

PINK SHADOW looks like she is about to do something illegal and instead just takes you to a really excellent beach club. This 190-foot expedition yacht from Damen hosts 12 guests in six main deck cabins, including a full-beam Owner's suite with its own lounge, because privacy is not negotiable. Interiors by Design Unlimited mix natural textures with genuine personality, warm and inviting in a way most stealth-boat-adjacent exteriors have no business being. On deck, a cabana bar, an infinity pool, and a helipad for anyone who considers the tender optional. With an Ice Class hull and serious storage for toys and tenders, PINK SHADOW is built for off-the-grid adventures that still come with room service.

$510,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 1 9 0 F E E T B U I L D E R / Y E A R : DA M E N YAC H T I N G , 2 02 3 G U E ST S : 1 2 | C H A RT E R : I YC

iyc.com/charter/loon

S E A W O L F

SEAWOLF X looks like it drove here from the future, which, in fairness, it basically did. This hybrid-electric catamaran from Rossinavi runs on onboard AI that quietly optimizes everything from battery life to your general comfort, no small talk required. She hosts 12 guests across five sleek cabins, anchored by a 100-square-meter main salon that feels more Scandinavian design showroom than superyacht. The deck handles outdoor dining, sunbathing, workouts, and a proper sauna, while her near-silent cruising means you can hear yourself think, possibly for the first time all year. SEAWOLF X is for the guest who wants luxury with a lower carbon footprint and zero interest in explaining why that matters.

$336,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 1 4 0 F E E T B U I L D E R / Y E A R : RO S S I N AV I , 2 02 4 G U E ST S : 1 2 | C H A RT E R : I YC

V E R T I G O VERTIGO is what happens when a sailing purist and an interior designer fall in love. This 220-foot Alloy Yachts stunner, drawn up by Philippe Briand, sleeps 12 across five airy cabins, including a master suite that makes the case for never going home. Christian Liaigre's interior brings loft-like calm to a boat that can also, when the mood strikes, actually sail. Highlights include a midship gym with direct sea access, a sun-drenched Jacuzzi deck, and an open-air cinema for the kind of starry-night screening that makes regular movie theaters feel a little sad. A generous swim platform and a full arsenal of toys round things out. VERTIGO is freedom under sail, minus the compromise.

$410,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 2 2 0 F E E T B U I L D E R / Y E A R : A L LOY YAC H T S , 2 0 1 1 G U E ST S :1 2 | C H A RT E R : I YC

D B 9 DB9 shows up looking like it has somewhere better to be, which, to be fair, it usually does. That champagne hull and those sculpted curves turn heads before she is even docked. Inside, it is all contemporary polish, flooded with natural light through windows that clearly did not come cheap. For guests who like their glamour with a splash, there is a foredeck pool with loungers, two Jacuzzis, and an open-air cinema on the sundeck. Five plush cabins host up to 10 guests, which is really just DB9's way of keeping things exclusive. She is fast, she is stylish, and she knows it.

$310,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H : 1 7 1 ' 1 1 " B U I L D E R / Y E A R : PA L M E R J O H N S O N , 2 0 1 0 , R E F I T 2 02 4 G U E ST S : 1 O | C H A RT E R : I YC

T H I S

I S

I T

THIS IS IT looks like someone asked a spaceship to design a catamaran, and honestly, it delivers. She is the largest motor cat on the charter market, wrapped in over 600 square meters of glass so you are never more than a glance away from the horizon. Twelve guests spread across six ensuite cabins, headlined by an owner's suite with an 11-foot skylight, a private terrace, and a vertical garden that climbs two full decks, because a normal view was never going to cut it. Onboard, a spa with sauna and sensorial shower sits next to the pool, a show-cooking galley works behind polarized glass, and a chase boat waits for whatever comes next. She has already picked up a Robb Report Best of the Best win and a Boat International cover to match. THIS IS IT is less a boat and more a statement, and the statement is: try to keep up.

$513,000 / week + expenses L E N GT H :1 43 F E E T B U I L D E R / Y E A R : T E C N O M A R , 2 02 4 G U E ST S : 1 2 | C H A RT E R : B U RG E S S

TRUE WEALTH, REDEFINED BART ZANDBERGEN’S BLUEPRINT FOR LIVING RICH

ong before he was an author, Bart Zandbergen was a familiar face to NOBLEMAN readers. Years ago, he graced the cover of this very magazine, and in the time since, he has remained one of the most recognizable figures in our pages, a wealth advisor whose insight into money has always carried something deeper than spreadsheets and portfolios. Now, with the release of his debut book, True Wealth Defined: The Eight Pillars to Discovering Life’s Riches, Zandbergen puts that deeper philosophy into words, and readers are taking notice. The book has already climbed Amazon’s bestseller rankings since its release, resonating with a wide swath of readers hungry for a definition of success that doesn’t begin and end with a bank statement. For more than three decades, Zandbergen built his career helping clients align their financial strategies with their life goals as founder of The Zandbergen Group. But the idea for True Wealth Defined didn’t come from a boardroom. It came from a quiet, uncomfortable realization that hit him at the height of what should have been a triumphant moment in his life. “I was 31 years old,” Zandbergen recalls. “I had a great job selling computer hardware and software systems. I was making great money and met all the goals I had set for myself: married, two kids, owned a home, nice cars. By all metrics, I was successful, wealthy. But I felt empty.”

That gap between how life looked and how life felt became the question that would define the next chapter of his career. Zandbergen left the world of hardware and software sales behind to enter wealth advisory, driven by a new goal: changing people’s lives, not just their balance sheets. It was there, walking alongside clients through decades of financial highs and lows, that the framework for his book began to take shape. THE EIGHT PILLARS At the heart of True Wealth Defined is Zandbergen’s signature concept, the Eight Pillars of True Wealth: health, family and friends, faith, service to others, legacy, peace, finance, and what he calls “the invisibles.” Together, they form a holistic blueprint for a life that feels as good as it looks on paper. Ask Zandbergen which pillar people neglect most, and he doesn’t hesitate. “This is a great question. If I had to pick one, I would say that health is most often neglected. When people are young, they feel invincible. And when pursuing financial goals, I have seen many people neglecting their health to progress their financial goals. Working more hours, poor food choices, little to no exercise. Neglecting family and friends. And for what? To reach a certain position? Or bank account number? And at what cost?”

“I don’t have all the answers,” he says. “In fact, I’d be a fool if I tried to make such a bold statement. But I do have a life that feels full. And I got here by accepting that life comes with challenges, but it’s what we do with the realities of life that matter.”

It’s a pattern he has watched play out for years among high achievers who quietly mortgage their health for the sake of ambition. “I’ve worked with incredibly successful clients who ignored their health for years,” he says. “They built empires on broken bodies and stressedout minds.”

WHO THE BOOK IS FOR So who should pick up True Wealth Defined? According to Zandbergen, almost anyone standing at a crossroads.

In the book, Zandbergen takes direct aim at the wellness industry’s favorite shortcuts. Supplements, he argues, were never meant to replace real food, rest, and movement; they were designed to supplement an already healthy lifestyle. Expensive gym memberships don’t guarantee effort either; some of the healthiest people he knows train in their garages with nothing more than bodyweight routines. And there is no shortcut to lasting change, no matter how many trending challenges promise otherwise.

“This book is for anyone who senses a gap between how life looks and how life feels,” he says. “It’s for people who reached certain milestones and wondered why the satisfaction didn’t last. It’s for anyone entering a new season, where priorities change and old habits no longer fit. It’s for high achievers who fear slowing down, caregivers who put themselves last, and quiet strivers who want their efforts to mean something.”

“Health isn’t a six week TikTok challenge,” he writes. “It’s a lifetime commitment.”

If there’s a single takeaway he hopes readers carry with them, it’s a question rather than an answer. “At the end of your life, what will truly matter? It won’t be your titles or your bank account. It will be how you lived, how you loved, and how you impacted others. At the end of the day, true wealth isn’t something you accumulate. It’s something you experience.”

WHAT DECADES OF CLIENTS TAUGHT HIM If health is the pillar most often ignored, the “invisibles” may be the one most often misunderstood. It’s also the idea Zandbergen seems most energized to talk about.

It’s a fitting message from a man who has spent a career helping others build wealth, and who now, in what he calls the third third of his life, is more focused on what that wealth is actually for. As Zandbergen puts it, simply: “Pick your hard. Then build your wealth.”

“When people hear the word wealth, their minds jump to salaries, investments, and assets,” he explains. “But real wealth isn’t those things, or at least not in isolation. One of the pillars of true wealth is found in the intangibles that give those things meaning.”

True Wealth Defined: The Eight Pillars to Discovering Life’s Riches is available now.

He defines the invisibles as the undefined moments that never show up on a balance sheet: an unsolicited “I love you” from a child, a sunset with a glass of wine, a beautiful rainbow. For Zandbergen, the example is close to home. “My granddaughter recently asked me to attend her Bring a Loved One to Lunch at school,” he says. “Invisible!” Asked what his years in wealth advisory taught him about what truly matters, Zandbergen points not to a single client story but to a pattern he’s watched repeat itself for decades. “I think I have the most fulfilling job in the world. I get to walk side by side with clients and help them meet their goals and dreams. If I am being honest, my many years with my many, many clients helped inspire me to come up with my Eight Pillars of True Wealth.” He’s blunt about the limits of money itself. A first paycheck might bring pride, he says, but pride and fulfillment are not the same thing. “There are people with millions who are miserable, while some other, more modest people might sleep like kings, despite their financial security being a daily struggle. The contrast proves that money doesn’t guarantee meaning. It solves problems, yes. It provides freedom. But it doesn’t create peace, love, or joy.” REWRITING THE STORY True Wealth Defined doesn’t shy away from the harder chapters of Zandbergen’s own life, including childhood bullying, failed relationships and partnerships, and financial and health setbacks of his own. “At the time, each setback felt like the worst thing that could happen,” he admits. “And I would spend some time acknowledging that. But then I would pick myself up, dust myself off, and say, it’s time to rewrite my story. I have learned that with every adversity there is a seed of equal or greater benefit.” That resilience runs through the entire book, but Zandbergen is careful to note that his goal was never to hand readers a list of answers. 97

AN EVEN BETTER VIEW FROM THE

PELICAN HILL’S NEWLY ANNOUNCED SOUTH COURSE REOPENING ne of Southern California’s most iconic golf destinations has officially entered its next chapter. The Resort at Pelican Hill has reopened its restored South Course, unveiling the first major step in a broader transformation that will ultimately see the Newport Coast property become a St. Regis Estate in 2027. While luxury hospitality changes may be on the horizon, golfers are already seeing the benefits on the fairways. Led by acclaimed golf architect Brian Curley, the restoration honors the original vision of legendary course designer Tom Fazio while introducing a series of enhancements aimed at improving playability, aesthetics, and course conditioning.

The most noticeable changes begin in the bunkers. Across the South Course, bunkers have been rebuilt and modernized, creating cleaner visuals and more strategic play. Along holes 11 through 14, which run beside Pacific Coast Highway, the transformation is particularly striking. New bunkers feature a custom seaside sand blend designed to mimic the natural dunes of the California coastline, visually connecting the course to the Pacific Ocean just beyond. The result is a more immersive coastal golf experience that feels uniquely Southern California. The restoration also included a complete reimagining of the teeing grounds. Every tee box was stripped, leveled, and resodded, with select areas expanded and new tees added to create additional options for players of varying skill levels. Greens were restored to their original shapes after years of subtle shrinkage, while drop areas, tee surrounds, and course entrances received significant upgrades. Behind the scenes, Pelican Hill invested heavily in infrastructure improvements that golfers may not immediately notice but will certainly appreciate. More than 2,000 fairway sprinkler heads were raised to improve course conditioning and consistency, while over a mile of cart paths were repaired and widened. Extensive landscape

trimming and tree cleanup have also reopened sightlines throughout the property, further showcasing the dramatic ocean views that have long defined the Pelican Hill experience. Perched atop 504 acres overlooking the Pacific, Pelican Hill has built its reputation on a rare combination of championship golf, luxury accommodations, and some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the country. The South Course restoration reinforces that legacy while positioning the club for the future. The work isn’t finished yet. Restoration of the North Course is already underway and is expected to debut in Fall 2026. Similar upgrades, including bunker reconstruction, tee box improvements, landscape refinement, and infrastructure modernization, will complete the resort’s vision for a fully refreshed 36-hole golf experience. For golfers, however, the future has already arrived. The South Course is back, and it may be better than ever.

THE RITZ-CARLTON MAUI, KAPALUA

a resort and more like a reckoning. This is not the property that grabs you by the collar. It earns its silence.

apalua is so much more than the Maui you get from postcards and tourism. Beyond that there is a quiet lore that captivates all who want to know. A story of honor, history and ancestry. On the island’s northwest shore, where ironwood forests give way to black lava cliffs and the Pacific seems to stretch toward Molokai without apology, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua sits on 54 acres that feel less like

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That silence has a history. In 1987, construction crews unearthed more than 2,000 Hawaiian ancestral remains on the original building site, a discovery that halted the project entirely and sent architects back to the drawing board. The hotel was redesigned and moved inland, and the land it vacated became the Honokahua Preservation Site, a protected wahi pana, or sacred place, that the resort now maintains as a neighbor rather

than a backdrop. It is a rare thing in luxury hospitality: a five-star property built around an apology, and a better one for it. A $100 million renovation completed in 2022 brought the property’s 468 guest rooms and 107 residential suites into a new era without sanding off what made them feel like Hawaii in the first place. Dark wood floors, marble baths, and local artwork anchor the interiors, while private lanais open onto ocean, mountain, or garden views depending on which side of the property claims you. For the traveler chasing something rarer, the Fire Lanai Collection offers Maui’s only hotel rooms with private fire pits, a detail that turns an evening nightcap into a small ceremony. The Residences go further still, with full

kitchens fitted in Wolf appliances and up to two bedrooms, built for travelers who want the comforts of home without surrendering an inch of the view. Six restaurants and bars cover the property’s culinary range, but Banyan Tree is the one worth dressing for. Set beneath a living wall of greenery with sightlines to Honokahua Bay, the restaurant draws on coastal cuisine with Hawaiian, French, and Filipino influences, and a menu built around Josper-grilled steaks and the kind of seafood that suggests the boat was closer than the kitchen. The Kauai prawns, finished in garlic brown butter and citrus, have become something of a quiet legend among regulars. Banyan Tree earned a 2025 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, a credential that tracks with the wine list’s depth. 101

For mornings, Ulana Terrace runs a breakfast buffet substantial enough to fuel a full day outdoors, and for travelers who want their luxury barefoot, the Burger Shack on D.T. Fleming Beach serves a gourmet burger and a shake with zero pretense and an ocean view thrown in for free. Kapalua’s draw has always been geographic as much as architectural. The resort anchors a 22,000-acre stretch of West Maui that includes two championship golf courses, the Plantation and the Bay, the former famous as home to The Sentry, the PGA Tour’s season-opening

event. Golfers who walk the Plantation’s back nine, with the Pacific dropping away on one side and the West Maui Mountains rising on the other, are playing one of the more theatrical front nines in American golf. Beyond the fairways, the Kapalua Coastal Trail runs directly from the property, tracing volcanic shoreline past tide pools and surf breaks that locals have fished for generations. Snorkelers head north to Honolua Bay, a marine preserve known for clear water and reliable sea turtle sightings, ideally before the tour boats arrive midmorning. The resort’s spa, meanwhile, draws its treatments from indigenous Hawaiian practice, less a wellness menu than a small education in how the island understands restoration.

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For the traveler who wants Maui distilled to its most contemplative register, golf by day, fire pit by night, and 2,000 years of history settled quietly next door, there is no better address on the island.

What separates Kapalua from its luxury peers is its insistence on context. The resort employs a Hawaiian cultural advisor who has spent more than three decades guiding guests and staff alike toward a deeper understanding of the place they are standing on, and the annual Celebration of the Arts festival has, since 1992, turned the property into a gathering point for the island’s artisans, educators, and storytellers. It would be easy for a resort this polished to treat Hawaiian culture as set dressing. Kapalua does the harder thing. It treats the ground as the point, and the luxury as what you build carefully around it.

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THE

PENINSULA TOKYO WHERE EVERY DETAIL TELLS A STORY

apanese hospitality is out of this world. But at The Peninsula Tokyo, it reaches a different register entirely. Doormen and women stand in white gloves, polishing the glass at the entrance so that no fingerprints interrupt the view. Before a word was spoken, my name was already known at the door. There was a stillness in that lobby that felt almost ceremonial, as if the building had decided, long before I arrived, that I was worth honoring.

A BUILDING DESIGNED LIKE A LANTERN

That’s the thing about this hotel. Somewhere in its DNA is a belief that every guest is a personal commitment, not a transaction. I left grateful, not just because the location and the views are about as premium as Tokyo gets, but because I was reminded that this kind of care still exists, and that someone somewhere in this city is still fighting to keep it alive. Honestly, it felt like getting a glimpse of life as if I were in a royal family, and for a few days I was a king.

Walk through the lobby and the details keep stacking up. The concave chandelier overhead holds 1,313 crystal LED bulbs, arranged to evoke hanabi fireworks or fireflies drifting at dusk. The carpet traces a pattern of pine needles, a quiet nod to the Imperial Gardens just beyond the glass. Behind the front desk, artist Shuhei Hasado built a mural from 70 layers of clay using hanchiku, an old Japanese wallbuilding method rarely seen outside temple construction. Even the elevator lobby borrows its shape from a torii gate.

That sense of ceremony isn’t accidental. Opposite the Imperial Palace and steps from Ginza, The Peninsula Tokyo was never built to chase the placeless glamour most luxury hotels default to. Architect Kazukiyo Sato imagined the building as a traditional Japanese lantern, standing sentinel at the entrance to Marunouchi. Nearly 1,000 pieces of art fill the property, almost all of it Japanese, almost all of it made using techniques that predate the hotel by centuries.

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Upstairs, the guest rooms keep the same obsessive care going. Cherry wood headboards. Red lacquer desks poured over linen for texture. Sliding doors made from single trees of horse chestnut, chosen specifically so the grain never breaks pattern. The bathrooms, done in granite and cherry wood with deep soaking tubs, aim for something closer to an onsen than a standard hotel wet room. It’s the kind of place where the design finds you even when you’re not looking for it, and it explains why that lobby stillness felt less like decor and more like intention. A NEW CHAPTER AT THE TOP The hotel’s flagship restaurant just got a serious reinvention. Peter, perched on the 24th floor with sweeping views over the Imperial Palace Gardens and the Tokyo skyline, has relaunched with a Modern French concept helmed by rising-star chef Yohan Da Costa. Trained in the Mâcon region of France before relocating to Hokkaido in 2014, Da Costa built his signature style in the kitchens of Niseko and Sapporo, fusing classical French technique with the precision and seasonality of Japanese ingredients.

The new menu leans into that duality without apology. Hokkaido scallop arrives with confit potato and wild watercress sauce. Aomori duck breast gets paired with Japanese caviar pearls and shiso tempura. Dessert closes the loop with a Kintsugi-inspired plate from Yamanashi, puffed rice and chocolate parfait finished with passion fruit and miso caramel. Wine comes curated by Beverage Director Quentin Frantz, old-world labels next to sharper new-world picks, while Peter: The Bar handles the cocktail program with a glass-and-chrome lounge built for whiskey and skyline views in equal measure. ARRIVING IN STYLE Even before check-in, The Peninsula Tokyo has a story to tell. The hotel’s fleet includes a fully redesigned, third-generation Toyota Century, finished in the brand’s signature Brewster green and customized down to the tread plates. It’s the first Century redesign in 21 years, built for a smooth, quiet ride through Tokyo traffic. Airport transfers run from Narita or Haneda, and the car is available for hourly hire for guests who want to explore the city the way it was meant to be seen. Between the doormen in white gloves, a chandelier built to look like fireflies, and a chef fusing two culinary worlds twenty-four floors above the Imperial Palace, The Peninsula Tokyo doesn’t just check the boxes of luxury hospitality. It makes you feel, if only for a few days, like royalty. 105

BY ANDRE NIESING

INSIDE THE REIMAGINED ROBERT MONDAVI WINERY, WHERE NAPA’S FOUNDING LEGACY MEETS A BOLD NEW ERA

his year marks the 21st anniversary of my very first trip to the Napa Valley. I was with my wife (girlfriend at the time) and my parents. I was a novice wine drinker, but ambitious and excited to build a lifelong obsession with wine. Robert Mondavi was our first stop and my virgin experience with formal wine tasting. It’s safe to say I enthusiastically committed myself to two new loves on that trip. Coming not too long off the heels of prohibition, drinking culture 60 years ago did not involve wine tasting rooms, distilleries, and breweries. Large wineries sold sweet, often fortified, inexpensive table wines in large gallon jugs. In 1966 Robert Mondavi set out to make a change. Napa was an agricultural town. Cattle, walnuts, and prunes. Not something people travel the world to experience. No hotels, upscale restaurants, or day spas. And certainly, no private vineyard estate wine tasting experiences. It was even 10 years before the legendary Judgement of Paris in 1976, when a wine from the United States defeated a French wine in a blind tasting. American wine was not on the world's radar. For Mondavi however, with his mystical ability to see into the future, he set out to change the world's perception of America’s ability to make wine that would eventually rival some of the best wines in Bordeaux. He was radical in introducing French Oak barrel aging and vineyard-specific wines all packaged with

wine tourism and hospitality. Mondavi’s relentless pursuit of quality, combined with his pioneering hospitality philosophy, defined the modern Napa Valley experience. Revered cult wineries like Screaming Eagle, Opus One, and Harlan Estate owe their existence to the groundwork laid by Mondavi in the 1960s. 60 YEARS OF INNOVATION This year, as they celebrate 60 years of wine-making prowess and dedication to luxurious tasting experiences, the Mondavi family still points to true north and withholds nothing to cement 106

themselves as Napa Valley forerunners. Their bold vision remains paramount: to make stunning wines that highlight the terroir of the Napa Valley while warmly inviting guests to a luxurious and enlightening experience. Their relentless pursuit of the quality of their wine, is only matched by their dedication to putting the soul of the valley first and cultivating that in the hearts of all their visitors. Mondavi Winery wasn’t just a place to taste superior wines, but was seen as a gateway, literally to California wine culture. The iconic archway and tower that loom into the mountainous horizon are an architectural staple. Originally designed by legendary architect Cliff May, he created a place of contemporary sophistication that feels unmistakably Californian. THE EXPERIENCE Before reopening this last spring, the family decided to embark on a 3-year build journey that would modernize their entire estate while paying homage to the original ideology that went into the early buildings. Designed by the acclaimed design firm Aidlin Darling Design, known for creating buildings that feel deeply connected to their landscapes, the new property blurs the line between architecture and nature. The highly anticipated reopening was the talk of the town. Neighboring wineries didn’t see it as competition, but rather a reawakening of Napa

and the visitor’s experience. Post-COVID, Napa wineries suffered what seemed an identity crisis. They limited their attendance to reservations only, while raising prices to meet demanding budgetary strains. It seemed every winery began striving for posh and exclusivity. Mondavi saw this and decisively acted to make the Napa experience more inviting, less constrictive, and more approachable. With a range of offerings from casual, with elevated lunching on the terrace to ultra private barrel room experiences, it has become the hub for wine culture and connection. For everyone. The culinary experiences and dining offerings rival some of the best world-class restaurants in the valley. Pro tip: The bright citrus salad paired with the Fume Blanc is a revelation. If you’ve ever driven highway 29 through the heart of Napa, you most likely have seen the iconic Mondavi arch. The new campus, still anchored around this timepiece embraces the California indoor-outdoor lifestyle allowing guests to effortlessly move between culinary spaces, courtyards, terraces, and vineyard vistas

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all cradled at the base of the Mayacamas mountain range. The estate reconnects visitors with the land with native landscaping, water features, and the use of warm woods, many of which are reclaimed from their used large barrels. It is truly an architectural marvel seamlessly blending you into the environment and surrounding topography. It’s completely refined and opulent but also relaxed. It is exactly the luxurious wine tasting experience anyone can enjoy and leave wanting to return. PRECISION AND QUALITY A complete brand refocus was the target for the Mondavi Family. We know where Mondavi has been, but everyone wants to know where they are going. I can tell you without hesitation, that their craft is focused on precision and quality. While still producing many approachable wines widely found at wine shops and restaurants, their focus is now more than ever on intentionality and precision. TO KALON For anyone versed in the extraordinary quality of Napa vineyards, the To Kalon vineyards are the Grand Cru of Napa. Bordeaux has Lafite, and Burgundy has Romanee-Conti. Napa’s To Kalon Vineyards is the expressive and unique answer to ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvignon. Many wine critics agree that it is the most

important vineyard in California. The welldraining soils and diverse topography allow remarkable concentration, powerful tannins, and extraordinary structure. Mondavi owns the largest portion of the vineyard and has been farming these plots and making wine with these illustrious grapes for decades. I participated in the exclusive and highly crafted To Kalon Collective Experience barrel room tasting and I can tell you hands down it was one of the most memorable moments I’ve had in Napa in a long time. I was fortunate enough to have Kurtis Ogasawara, Mondavi’s director of winemaking with us in the tasting room. I’ve met a lot of winemakers in my life and Kurtis is genuinely one of the most passionate and knowledgeable. I asked him what makes Cabernet the king grape in Napa and he told me, “There is something special about making Cabernet Sauvignons across the Napa Valley districts and them expressing the subtle differences in location, microclimate,

and soil. I love wines that have a personality based on where they’re grown and the conditions of the growing season that year.” Personality is the keyword there. Rather than manipulating grapes to create a style, Kurtis and his team at Mondavi make wines that genuinely express the unique terroir of Napa Valley. Later that day I had lunch next to Blake Wood, the viticulturist for Mondavi. Most viticulturists I have met in my career are a quirky bunch. I would describe them as the Picassos of the wine industry, esoterically focused on their craft, in tune with the energy of the land. While sipping on the magnificent Sauvignon Blanc I would lose myself as he would wax rhapsodic about the terrain and its alluvial soils. Even with his niche expertise in a coveted field, they all seem to have this air of humility, often claiming, “I’m just a farmer.” Steven Spielberg is not just a cameraman. Coco Chanel was not just a seamstress. I asked him

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if he thinks being a viticulturist for Mondavi is a spiritual craft and he told me, “Each year there is an opportunity for the viticulturist to learn something. There is a refinement of the craft, along with a relationship with the vineyard that evolves. Winegrowing becomes an art form when the viticulturist incorporates Mother Nature’s cues to guide the vine towards its highest quality potential.” To Kalon is a gift. When treated with respect, it lends to the purist form of winemaking. I’ve said this about a handful of wines from Napa, primarily my personal favorites like Colgin Estate, and Grgich Hills, that when drinking the purist form of expression of the land, it “tastes like Napa in a glass.” I am excited for the future of Napa Valley. As Mondavi paved the way over 60 years ago, I am hoping that this refocuses Mondavi again as a leader in Napa Valley, reimagined for the next generation. With any global luxury destination, it goes beyond being merely chic, but is sincerely stylish. For those who want exceptional wine, extraordinary design, and experiences with a profound sense of place, look to add Mondavi Winery to your next trip to wine country.

2022 RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON, To Kalon Vineyard | $250

2021 THE ESTATES CABERNET SAUVIGNON | $105

All that you expect from To Kalon, and more. Structure was the first thing I noticed. Initial big bold tannins, that landed with velvety grace. What makes it remarkable for me is the minerality on the palette giving that Napa gravel mouthfeel. All the star flavors here are from a Cabernet: bold, dark fruit, a hint of cocoa, and even a touch of dried flowers. This wine will take a long time to enjoy because the long luxurious finish will delay each next anticipated sip.

Coming in at 83% Cabernet, compared to about 94% with the To Kalon, this is the softer more rounded Cabernet offering, that still without holding anything back sings with big Cab energy with more plush ripe fruits, a silky yet firm texture. Coming from Oakville, rather than the esteemed To Kalon vineyard, this Cabernet still sings with power and elegance. I would collect and age this to really allow time to let the flavors and structure develop. So, buy a case and let it sit.

2022 RESERVE FUME BLANC, To Kalon Vineyard | $95

2022 THE ESTATES RED BLEND | $95

I’ll save the nomenclature of “Fume Blanc” for another article, but this truly is a lovely wine. You can tell this Sauvignon Blanc comes from an elevated vineyard source, To Kalon. Usually bright and often one-dimensional, this Fume Blanc is quite complex, especially in mouthfeel. It’s crisp while still being silky and plush. The pyrazine bell pepper profile is there, but it dances with delicate hints of lemongrass and flint. For everyday Sauvignon Blanc drinkers, this is quite a treat.

I love the Napa wineries that make off-the-wall bottled varietals like Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Kurtis is not afraid of showcasing these grapes in Mondavi’s red blends. The 2021 vintage featured almost 50% Cabernet Franc and the 2022 pulled in a whopping 14% Petit Verdot. (You can usually expect about 2-10%.) This gives their wine a beautiful deep inky color with pronounced graphite and mineral notes followed by dried herbs and spice. I love when a red blend goes beyond being just big and juicy but is a curated journey.

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FONTAINEBLEAU PAIRS THE SPECTACLE OF LAS VEGAS WITH THE CELEBRATED COASTAL FLAVORS OF CANTINA CONTRAMAR.

here are two kinds of Las Vegas. There is the city that begs for your attention with blinking lights, oversized spectacles, and enough neon to be seen from space. Then there is Las Vegas quietly inviting the one searching for something more. Fontainebleau belongs firmly in the

many resorts try to overwhelm guests with excess, Fontainebleau feels curated. Every polished marble surface, every soaring chandelier, every carefully framed view of the Strip serves a purpose. It is sophisticated without feeling sterile and luxurious without becoming intimidating.

After decades of anticipation, the iconic blue glass tower has finally become one of the Strip’s defining landmarks, bringing a distinctly modern interpretation of glamour to a city that constantly reinvents itself. While

The property stretches skyward with more than 3,600 guest rooms dressed in calming shades of blue that quietly reference its legendary Miami Beach predecessor. Floor-to-ceiling windows remind you exactly where you are, whether your room overlooks

second category.

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the glittering Strip, the glowing Sphere, or the surrounding Nevada mountains. The casino hums with energy, but the resort never feels trapped by it. There is room to breathe here. That sense of refinement extends well beyond the guestrooms. Fontainebleau has quickly established itself as one of the city’s most ambitious culinary destinations, assembling an impressive collection of restaurants from celebrated chefs around the world. While the lineup includes everything from elevated Italian to omakase experiences, one table deserves to be at the top of your reservation list. Cantina Contramar. For anyone familiar with Mexico City’s dining scene, the name carries real weight. Chef Gabriela Cámara’s original Contramar has long been considered one of Latin America’s defining restaurants, drawing devoted locals alongside travelers who happily build entire vacations around a single lunch reservation. Bringing that legacy to Las Vegas was never going to be about simply recreating an address. It was about transporting a philosophy. Step inside and you immediately understand the assignment.

Designed by acclaimed Mexican architect Frida Escobedo, the dining room trades predictable fiesta clichés for understated elegance. Rich indigo tile, warm wood, soft amber lighting, and an open comal station create an atmosphere that feels equally at home in Polanco or on the Las Vegas Strip. The room buzzes with conversation instead of nightclub theatrics. It feels alive, but never chaotic. The menu follows the same philosophy. Chef Cámara has built an international reputation on proving that restraint often requires more talent than extravagance. Bright seafood, pristine ingredients, fresh tortillas, and deceptively simple preparations allow every component to speak for itself. Fontainebleau describes the concept as “excellence in simplicity,” and it proves to be far more than marketing language.

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Start with the tuna tostadas that helped make Contramar famous. Delicate slices of tuna rest atop crisp tortillas with just enough richness and acidity to keep you reaching for another bite. The ceviches and aguachiles arrive vibrant and refreshing, balancing citrus, spice, and pristine seafood with remarkable precision. Of course, no visit feels complete without ordering the legendary Pescado a la Talla, Contramar-style. Split in half and dressed with two contrasting marinades, one smoky red adobo and the other herbaceous parsley, it is both visually stunning and deeply satisfying. Served family style, it transforms dinner into a shared experience rather than a collection of individual entrées.

Las Vegas exclusives make appearances as well, including indulgent wagyu preparations and larger-format dishes designed to match the city’s appetite for celebration, but seafood remains the undeniable star. Even the tortillas deserve attention. Pressed fresh throughout service, they remind diners that sometimes the smallest details create the strongest memories. The beverage program deserves equal praise. Premium tequilas and mezcals anchor an inventive cocktail menu that favors balance over sugar bombs. Margaritas arrive crisp rather than cloying, encouraging guests to linger instead of rushing toward the next reservation. That may be Cantina Contramar’s greatest achievement. In a city built around constant movement, it permits you to slow down. That same philosophy defines Fontainebleau as a whole. Yes, you’ll find world-class nightlife, a sprawling casino, designer shopping, an

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expansive spa, and enough entertainment to fill an entire weekend. But the property’s greatest luxury may simply be its confidence. It never feels like it is competing for your attention because it assumes it has already earned it. Las Vegas has entered a fascinating chapter where luxury is no longer measured solely by square footage or crystal chandeliers. Today’s travelers are looking for authenticity alongside indulgence, craftsmanship alongside spectacle. Fontainebleau understands that shift better than most. You may arrive expecting another glamorous casino resort. You leave remembering a perfect seafood dinner, handmade tortillas fresh off the comal, cocktails shared with friends long after dessert, and the realization that some of Las Vegas’ biggest wins happen far away from the gaming tables. Sometimes the city’s brightest lights are found around the dinner table.

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31922 Paseo Monte Vista SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 6 BEDS

1 1 B AT H

10,503 SF

$15,000,000

Set across 2.2 acres of serene, storybook grounds, this truly one-of-a-kind estate offers an exceptional blend of tranquility, craftsmanship, and timeless character. Beneath a canopy of sprawling pepper trees, the property unfolds like a private retreat with beautifully laid stone surrounds a graceful fountain, boulders are thoughtfully placed, and a peaceful pond. A wishing well adds charm, while a rare 100+ year-old theater door serves as an architectural centerpiece. Designed for both quiet living and grand entertaining, this estate invites you to create a lasting legacy for generations to come. The main residence, completed in 2024 and spanning approximately 6,885 square feet, has wide-plank Monarch oak floors, custom cabinetry with Armac Martin hardware, and Waterworks fixtures define the interiors. A fully integrated Lutron HomeWorks system controls lighting, shades, audio, security, and pool features, complemented by whole-home water filtration and five HVAC zones. The kitchen features a LaCanche 55” range, Calacatta marble counters with integrated sinks, dual Wolf dishwashers, Wolf steam oven, Sub-Zero refrigeration, and a Scotsman ice maker. Additional spaces include a game room, a dog washing area, and a mudroom. The 3,180-square-foot carriage house includes a 1,180-square-foot guest residence with Thermador appliances, custom cabinetry, Sonos sound, and Lutron lighting. The lower level offers a four-car garage, theater, sauna, bathroom, kitchenette, and laundry. Additional structures include a studio, a private office with new HVAC and designer finishes; and an 800-square-foot barn featuring a catering kitchen with restored Viking range, Sub-Zero refrigeration, Bosch dishwasher, marble island, and a gym. The grounds have been fully replanted with new irrigation and lighting. A pool and separate jacuzzi have been updated, complemented by a pool house with HVAC. A private pickleball court adds recreation, while a chicken coop enhances the estate’s character. The BBQ area features Lynx appliances, refrigeration, and an ice machine. The koi pond and fountain have been upgraded, and the property includes fiber connectivity and infrastructure to host 300+ guests and also approved for solar installation. Ideally located just minutes from Dana Point Harbor—currently undergoing a major revitalization—beaches, golf, horse trails, River Street Marketplace, top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and five-star resorts.

S a r i Wa r d • R E A LT O R ® • L i c # 0 1 7 7 4 8 6 1 • 9 4 9 . 6 8 3 . 9 5 4 5

Lic# 01008773

4701 Balboa Avenue ENCINO 7 BEDS

7 B AT H

GUEST HOUSE SF: 835 SF | SF: 8,962 SF

L O T S I Z E : 4 1 , 4 4 6 ( N E A R LY 1 A C R E )

$14,495,000

Located in the prestigious Encino enclave, this exceptional estate blends modern elegance with effortless comfort. Privately set behind a long double-gated driveway on nearly one acre, the home offers seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms within a thoughtfully designed, expansive layout. A refined mix of stone, steel, white oak paneling, oak floors, and exposed wood beams creates a warm, sophisticated atmosphere throughout. The main level features formal living and dining rooms, a stunning great room with soaring ceilings and a statement chandelier, a chef’s kitchen with center island, an adjacent den, library, mudroom, and two en-suite bedrooms. Upstairs, four additional bedrooms include a luxurious primary suite with a private sitting room. The resort-style grounds are designed for both relaxation and entertaining, complete with a pool and infinity spa, outdoor kitchen, stone fireplace lounge, vineyard, and detached guest house. Two two-car garages and an expansive private driveway provide ample parking. A rare offering that captures the essence of luxury living in one of Encino’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

Ab el Sa nchez • R EALTO R® • Lic# 0 2004795 • 949. 529.4965 • ab els an ch ez@fi rstteam. com Felix Pena •

REALTOR® • Lic# 0 1 41 4250 • Hi lton & Hylan d

Lic# 01008773

217 West 57th Street NEW YORK, NEW YORK

4 BEDS

4 . 5 B AT H

4,295 SF

$29,500,000

Unobstructed views, extra high ceilings and never lived in! This jaw-dropping half-floor residence floats directly over Central Park, soaring 1,000 feet above New York City with Park views, unobstructed by any buildings. Welcome to Apartment 97E at Central Park Tower, a truly exquisite 4-bedroom, 4.5 bathroom, over 4250 square foot home, with 3 corner views and magnificent 13’6 ceiling heights, the highest in the building. This gorgeous residence is the epitome of ultra luxury, featuring floor-to-ceiling, sound-insulated glass walls that fill each space with natural light while showcasing expansive views in every direction.

Lisa K. Lippman • Lic# 30LI0869919 • 212-588-5606 • llippman@bhsusa.com

Lic# 01008773

NEWP ORT B E ACH 1312 Dover Drive 5 BEDS

5 B AT H

5,206 SF

$ 7, 2 0 0 , 0 0 0

DOVER SHORES

Completely rebuilt and reimagined from the studs up in 2025, 1312 Dover Drive offers a rare opportunity to own a virtually new luxury residence in the heart of Dover Shores, one of Newport Beach’s most sought-after coastal communities. Thoughtfully redesigned, this five-bedroom home blends sophistication, comfort, and functionality in a floorplan tailored for modern living and entertaining. Vaulted ceilings, open-concept living spaces, abundant natural light, and refined architectural details create an immediate sense of elegance. Premium finishes, custom cabinetry, designer lighting, and curated materials enhance every room. At the center of the home, the chef’s kitchen features high-end appliances, striking stone surfaces, generous prep space, and seamless flow to the dining and living areas. The home includes five beautifully appointed bedrooms, including two ensuite guest suites on the main level. Upstairs, the luxurious primary suite offers a spa-inspired bath, expansive walk-in wardrobe, and a true retreat-like atmosphere. Designed for exceptional Southern California living, this residence embodies luxury, comfort, and timeless coastal style. Visit 1312DoverDrive.com

M i c h a e l M a h o n • L i c # 0 2 0 7 6 8 9 7 • 9 4 9 . 8 8 7. 0 3 5 0 • m i c h a e l @ s e l l e r s r e s e r v e . c o m A l ex a n d e r Yu • L i c # 0 1 4 9 2 6 7 4 • 9 4 9 . 6 8 2 . 8 8 8 0 • a l e x @ a l e x y u t e a m . c o m

Lic# 01008773

WORDS BY MICHELE HARRINGTON

his year, as our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, I've found myself reflecting on what happened 250 years ago. I always enjoy studying our Founders and the incredible history surrounding the birth of our country, but this milestone makes it feel even more significant. It's kind of mindblowing when you stop and think about what those men and women were willing to risk, and what they were attempting to accomplish. One of the greatest experiments in human history wasn't the light bulb, the airplane, or the internet. It was the idea that ordinary people could govern themselves. For thousands of years, people lived under kings, emperors, and dictators. The assumption was simple: people couldn't be trusted to rule themselves. They needed someone else to make the decisions. Then a small group of colonists decided to challenge that idea. Men like Benjamin Franklin walked away from comfortable, prestigious lives and risked everything. Franklin had status, influence, wealth, and a successful career within the British Empire. He was one of the most respected men in the world. By choosing the cause of independence, he knowingly put all of that at risk. Why would anyone risk everything for an idea? Because they believed freedom was worth it. George Washington made a decision that may have been just as remarkable. After leading the colonies to victory, he could have become king. Many expected him to. Instead, he voluntarily surrendered power and returned home. Throughout history, countless men have sacrificed principle to gain power. Washington did something almost unheard of, he gave up power because he believed no man should rule over a free people. That single act helped establish one of the defining principles of our republic: that leaders serve the people, not the other way around. One of my favorite quotes comes from Patrick Henry as the colonies debated whether to fight for independence: "Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!" Those weren't just dramatic words. They reflected a generation that understood freedom always carries a price.

Self-government only works when people are willing to govern themselves first. It requires discipline, personal responsibility, critical thinking, and engaged citizens. It asks us not to become lazy in our thinking, not to take our freedoms for granted, and not to become cynical. Skeptical? Absolutely. Ask questions. Challenge ideas. Hold leaders accountable. But cynicism assumes nothing matters, and once enough people believe that, self-government begins to erode from within. Our system has produced one of the greatest engines of innovation the world has ever seen because it gives people the freedom to build, create, invent, and pursue ideas. Benjamin Franklin wasn't just a Founder, he was an inventor. Thomas Edison transformed the world because he was free to pursue thousands of experiments. The Wright brothers were bicycle mechanics before they changed aviation forever. Entrepreneurs, dreamers, and builders throughout our history have taken risks, failed, learned, and tried again because they were free to do so. That freedom has created extraordinary opportunity, not only for Americans, but for people around the world whose lives have been improved by what free people have built. The Founders took enormous risks so future generations would have extraordinary opportunities. Those opportunities also come with responsibility. Luke 12:48 reminds us, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded." We've been given an incredible gift. Our responsibility isn't simply to enjoy the blessings of liberty, but to be worthy stewards of them. That means thinking deeply, pursuing truth, working hard, serving others, taking worthwhile risks, and doing our part to preserve the freedoms that others sacrificed so much to secure. George Washington understood that America's future would never depend solely on its Constitution or its leaders. It would depend on its people. In his First Inaugural Address, he wrote: "The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the republican model of government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people." 250 years later, the greatest experiment in human history is still underway. The question isn't whether the Founders did enough. The question is whether we will.

But freedom also comes with an obligation. You can follow all of Michele’s articles on substack @MicheleHarrington

EVENTS

NOBLE WINE & DINE 2026 THE RESORT AT PELICAN HILL PHOTOS BY FRANK SALAS NOBLEMAN’s fourth annual NOBLE Wine & Dine returned in spectacular fashion, bringing together hundreds of sold-out guests for an unforgettable weekend at The Resort at Pelican Hill featuring the legendary Chef Daniel Boulud. Set against beautiful ocean views, the weekend showcased world-class culinary talent, exceptional wines and spirits, and luxury experiences. The weekend officially kicked off with an extraordinary VIP Opening Dinner celebrating world-class cuisine, exceptional wines, and luxury hospitality. The evening began with exclusive test drives of the allnew Cadillac Celestiq before moving to the terrace for an elegant cocktail reception featuring exceptional wines from Frank Family Vineyards, handcrafted cocktails with Golden Eagle Vodka, Silent Pool Gin, and Peroni, and premium Frosista Caviar. Guests also had the rare opportunity to mingle with NOBLEMAN Chef of the Year, Daniel Boulud while enjoying an exclusive tasting of Louis XIII Cognac and ultra-rare Gordon & MacPhail Scotch. Guests were then welcomed for an intimate six-course dinner celebrating Chef Boulud’s extraordinary culinary legacy. The menu began with a course by Chef Daniel Boulud before continuing with five exceptional courses created by Chef Riley Huddleston of The Mayor’s Table, Chef Michael Reed of Poppy & Seed, Chef Daniel Hohng of The Park Club, Chef Pedro Almeida of The Resort at Pelican Hill, and Pastry Chef Lee Smith of Montage Laguna Beach.

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EVENTS

Each chef crafted a dish in honor of Chef Boulud, with every course thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines from Frank Family Vineyards. The evening was further elevated by an incredible fashion show from Eleventy Milano. A special thank you to our valued partners, FirstTeam® Real Estate, Visit Newport Beach, Aura California, and The Zandbergen Group, for helping make the evening truly unforgettable. The celebration continued with the Saturday Grand Tasting, beginning with a red carpet experience before guests made their way to Cadillac’s impressive showcase featuring the all-new Cadillac Celestiq and Escalade IQ. Guests then continued onto the resort’s stunning terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Pelican Hill Golf Course before descending to the Mar Vista Lawn & Rotunda, where an extraordinary open-air culinary experience awaited. Guests explored chef stations, wineries, premium spirits, luxury brand activations, and interactive partner experiences while enjoying live music and a lively marching band. Throughout the weekend, guests explored an extraordinary walk-around tasting experience featuring acclaimed chefs from across Southern California and beyond. Participating chefs included Chef Kevin Meehan of Kali, Chef Max Boonthanakit of Camphor, Chef Seigo Tamura of 715 Sushi, Chef Roberto Alcocer of VALLE Oceanside, Chef Pedro Almeida of The Resort at Pelican Hill, NOBU Newport Beach, Chef David Castro Hussong of Bruma Wine Garden and Fauna, Chef Viet Nguyen of Kei Concepts, Chef Alex Espinoza of Bottega Napa Valley, Chef Vince Terusa of VIII by Selanne, Chef Erik De Marchi of Oliver’s Trattoria, Chef Dennis Efthymiou of Montage Laguna Beach, Chef Ross Pangilinan of Mix Mix, Chef Ben Martinek of Pendry Newport Beach, Chef JoJo Ruiz of SET Steak & Sushi, Chef Riley Huddleston of The Mayor’s Table, Chef Daniel

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Hohng of The Park Club California, Chef Joel Hammond of Uchi West Hollywood, Chef Brandon Hall of Thyme Well Spent, Pastry Chef Lee Smith of Montage Laguna Beach, Chef Jimmy Matiz of Matiz Cuisine, and Chef Dusty V. Featured ingredients included premium duck from Maple Leaf Farms, 100% grass-fed wagyu from First Light Farms, exceptional Lumina Lamb of New Zealand, and luxurious Frosista Caviar. Guests also enjoyed handcrafted coffee and matcha from MoonGoat Coffee, authentic Italian gelato from Gelato-go, and premium still and sparkling volcanic artesian mineral water from Splendor Water. Each bite was complemented by an exceptional selection of wines, including the beautifully designed Frank Family Vineyards wine bar beneath the iconic Rotunda. Additional featured wineries included Wiens Cellars, Darioush Winery, Lloyd Cellars, Bouchaine Vineyards, Perchance Estate Wines, and Rusack Vineyards. Guests also enjoyed premium spirits and craft cocktails from Blue Run Whiskey, Golden Eagle Vodka, Silent Pool Gin, and Peroni, while MADWOMAN served refreshing Italianinspired cocktails. A hidden speakeasy presented by Gordon & MacPhail offered guests an exclusive collection of exceptional Scotch whiskies. Beyond the culinary offerings, guests explored luxury activations including an Eleventy Milano pop-up boutique featuring the brand’s signature Italian craftsmanship and timeless menswear, beautifully handcrafted culinary knives from Aura California, and Leisure Society’s collection of handcrafted eyewear and sunglasses. Guests also had the opportunity to give back through a silent auction benefiting Miracles for Kids and The James Relief Project.

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The weekend welcomed our esteemed Chef of the Year, Chef Daniel Boulud, one of the most influential chefs of our time. With 54 career Michelin stars and a global culinary legacy that has helped define modern fine dining, Chef Boulud continues to inspire generations of chefs around the world. During the event, he was honored with the NOBLE Wine & Dine Chef of the Year Award before the reveal of his cover on the newest issue of NOBLEMAN Magazine. The celebration continued on Sunday with the sold-out Ultimate Brunch, where guests enjoyed another incredible lineup of culinary creations, exceptional wines and cocktails, breathtaking ocean views, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere that provided the perfect finale to an extraordinary weekend. Our fourth annual NOBLE Wine & Dine was an incredible success, and we are deeply grateful to every chef, winery, spirits partner, luxury brand, sponsor, charitable partner, and guest who helped make the weekend so special. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another extraordinary NOBLE Wine & Dine next year!

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EVENTS

ITALIAN EASE MEETS CALIFORNIA COOL INSIDE ZEGNA’S MALIBU SHOW On June 5, Malibu Pier traded surfboards for supermodels as Zegna unveiled its Summer 2027 collection against one of California’s most iconic backdrops. With the Pacific stretching endlessly behind the runway and the golden-hour light doing what only Malibu can do, the evening felt less like a fashion show and more like a destination experience. That was exactly the point. Titled La Villeggiatura, an Italian concept centered around escaping everyday life for a slower, more intentional summer, Zegna’s latest collection captured the relaxed elegance that has become the house’s signature under Artistic Director Alessandro Sartori. The mood was effortless, but the craftsmanship was anything but. The collection leaned heavily into easy sophistication. Soft tailoring, relaxed silhouettes, airy seersucker, luxurious knits, lightweight leather, and washed textures created a wardrobe designed for movement and comfort without sacrificing refinement. Colors pulled from both the Italian Riviera and the California coastline, sun-faded oranges, ocean blues, warm neutrals, and shades of green, helped blur the line between resort wear and modern luxury.

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What stood out most was Zegna’s ability to make luxury feel livedin. Nothing appeared overly precious. Jackets looked like they had traveled the world. Shirts felt designed for long afternoons by the water. Even the tailoring carried a relaxed confidence that reflected the brand’s evolving vision of contemporary menswear. The setting amplified the message. Malibu Pier was transformed into an Italian-inspired seaside escape complete with colorful seating and beach-club energy, creating a natural extension of the collection itself. Guests, including actors, filmmakers, athletes, and some of the brand’s most loyal clients, gathered to experience what felt like a perfect collision of Italian craftsmanship and California cool. Our team left with the same impression shared by many in attendance: Zegna understands where luxury menswear is headed. The future isn’t about dressing up for the sake of it. It’s about dressing well, feeling comfortable, and carrying an understated confidence wherever summer takes you. If this collection is any indication, Zegna’s version of the endless summer is one worth chasing.

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BE IN THE CENTER OF IT ALL A grand estate with sweeping views of the Pacific, The Resort at Pelican Hill has an unrivaled Newport Beach location paired with world class golf, spa and dining. A feast for the senses.