Promenade - Fall 2010

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PROMENADE

Dressing with style today COMES WITH SOME BAGGAGE. OURS.

PROMENADE About New York since 1934

NYLUXURY.COM

FALL 2010

N Runway Report N The Fall Arts Season N Elegant Jewelry N Fine Dining N

shopping * Stunning Stackables * The Runway Report

dining * Charlie Palmer’s Aureole * Open Kitchens, Chic Style

new york in fall

the arts FALL 2010

FIFTH AVENUE AT 39TH STREET Stop by our Executive office on the 7th floor to get a savings pass to use all day.

luxury properties * Investing from Afar

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* Pacino Plays Shylock on Broadway * Living Large at MoMA * It’s All About Dance

Fifteen Dollars 8/4/10 1:40:44 PM


NEW YORK CITY UPTOWN. DOWNTOWN. FROM THE BWAY TO SOHO.

A VERY STYLISH FREE GIFT* IS YOURS

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Just bring this ad and your same-day receipts to our Visitors Center at The Balcony on 1, 59th Street and Lexington Avenue or Guest Services on 2, Soho, 504 Broadway. *One per customer, while supplies last. For out-of-town visitors only. †Not in all stores.

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©2010 Helen Frankenthaler / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Jewelry

At MoMA, Helen Frankenthaler’s Great Meadows (1951)

fall in

Fashion

Joan Marcus

A

Theatre

Dining

PROMENADE

s you’ll see on Promenade’s fashion pages, this is a season of wow! The city’s best boutiques and fine department stores are on fire with the latest designer must-haves... from fabulous furs to the new narrow-leg look. Stunning stackable jewelry is everywhere. And speaking of stackable, meet Andrew Schloss, who runs the legendary jeweler Reinstein/Ross, renowned for its signature stacked rings and bracelets and handmade gold bijoux. Promenade talks with food entrepreneur Charlie Palmer, the chef/owner of Aureole, who moved his flagship restaurant to One Bryant Park last year. We take a tour of some of the city’s best open kitchens, including the sumptuous seafood establishment, Oceana, and visit the iconic ‘21’ Club. On stage, the stars are out. Discover what Al Pacino, David Hyde Pierce, Laura Linney, Cherry Jones, James Earl Jones, Vanessa Redgrave, Patti LuPone and many more are up to this season. Read what Eric Bogosian, in Time Stands Still, says about this production, which is heading back to Broadway. View MoMa’s 300 works by the Abstract Expressionists who shook the art world in the ’50s. And see dancers from far and wide performing at The Joyce, City Center, Dance Theater Workshop, Lincoln Center, Ailey Citigroup Theater and yes, even the Whitney Museum. Meander the Mediterranean in great style on a luxurious cruise from Venice to Athens, with port stops in Ravenna, the Greek Islands, the Turkish seaside and Istanbul. For absolute escapism right here in Manhattan, try our selection of city spas. And, as always, in Promenade, our up-to-date guides for shopping, dining, theatre, museums, galleries, performing arts, and sightseeing promise you wonderful choices for indulging in all that New York has to offer. Visit nyluxury.com for special events, things to do, and every week go behind the scenes with our theatre editor and get exclusive shopping tips from our style expert. Enjoy!

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David L. Miller Publisher­ PROMENADE I

DEDICATED TO THE AFFLUENT NEW YORK CITY VISITOR

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infinity was hard enough to describe. now, it’s even harder to miss. Just like a magnificent moment that never ends: nine seamlessly joined strands of gold combine to form the 18k rose gold Helioro Pendant. On white cord, $ 3,375; on brown cord, with a single row of cinnamon-colored diamonds, limited to 100 pieces, $ 6,145; on La Catena Necklace, full pavÊ set white diamonds, $ 16,975.


About New York since 1934

PROMENADE Shopping New York The Runway Report A season of winter wows!

nyluxury.com Fall 2010

stack ‘em up

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Keeping Time 22 Vintage and new treasures from renowned watchmakers are part of this New Yorker’s ever-expanding collection. Stunning Stacks 24 When one ring – or bracelet – is simply not enough. The Style Interview 28 Reinstein/Ross’s Andrew Schloss, on 25 years of jewelry making.

silver anniversary

Editor’s Picks: Tie One On 12 Suiting up for fall with neckwear that surprises. The Virtual Voyager 14 Topflight tips for the discerning traveler.

eloise décor The Plaza Hotel

fabulous furs

The Best Places 30 Great suggestions for successful shopping.

collector’s item

on the cover

Photo credits: Maya Jewels, Gregor Halenda, courtesy World Gold Council; Aureole, Eric Laignel; Arshile Gorky’s Agony, ©2010 The Arshile Gorky Foundation / The Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York; Al Pacino, Joan Marcus Twenty9th Park Madison, Courtesy of Warburg Realty

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Jonathan Hökklo

Clockwise from top left: Enamel Collection, Maya Jewels; Aureole; Fall Collection, Oscar de la Renta; Arshile Gorky’s Agony at MoMA: Al Pacino in The Merchant of Venice; midtown view at Twenty9th Park Madison.

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Promenade - Fall 2010: Aaron Basha advertisement (Right Hand Read)

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About New York since 1934

stars on stage

Annabel Clark

Fall 2010

Jack Guy

Ethan Hill

Annabel Clark

Joan Marcus

Andrew Eccles

PROMENADE

nyluxury.com

On the Town Theatre

met transitions

Ken Howard / Metropolitan Opera

The Fall Season 42 Familiar faces are on the boards, including, at top from left, Eric Bogosian, Laura Linney, Vanessa Redgrave, David Hyde Pierce, Patti LuPone, Helen Hunt and James Earl Jones. Talking With: Eric Bogosian 45 The man behind Talk Radio speaks out on writing, acting and the return of Time Stands Still to Broadway. opera

Levine and Luisi 56 At the Met, James Levine celebrates 40 years on the podium, and the new principal guest conductor, Fabio Luisi, strengthens his ties to New York.

boy swans

DANCE

Short Stays 58 Companies from around the world are making brief and brilliant visits to New York’s stages. Museums

Living Large at MoMA 64 300 works from the Abstract Expressionists who shook the art world. REAL ESTATE ©2010 Sam Francis Foundation, California / Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY

The Pied-à-Terre and Then Some 74 Smart investment opportunities for those who know where to look. Travel

Venice to Athens: Cruising the Light Fantastic Meandering the Mediterranean in ultimate style.

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Dining

Bill Cooper

Promenade Picks 84 “21” Club and Oceana.

big art fresh from oceana

Open Kitchens 85 6 great places to watch them cook for you. The Restaurant Interview: Charlie Palmer 98 ureole’s very busy chef/owner talks about his invigorating life as a restaurateur, A writing cookbooks and opening wine shops and hotels around the country. The Most Up-to-Date Guides:

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Theatre Performing Arts Museums Galleries Sights in the City Dining

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About New York since 1934

PROMENADE Fall 2010

PUBLISHER David L. Miller CO-PUBLISHER Eli Marcus DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Lisa Ben-Isvy SALES & MARKETING

VP Sales & Marketing VP Community Relations Director of Marketing Senior Account Manager

Vincent Timpone Janet Z. Barbash Susan Fine Fred Moskowitz

EDITORIAL

Editor Listings Editor Style Editor Theatre Editor Assistant Editor

Phyllis Singer Colin Carlson Ruth J. Katz Griffin Miller Christine Tarulli

Contributing Editors Kaitlin Ahern Martin Bernheimer Marian Betancourt Kristopher Carpenter Sylviane Gold Karin Lipson Research Assistant Sarah Wormser Art Director Jiyon Son PUBLISHING OPERATIONS

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Published by Davler Media Group LLC 1440 Broadway, 5th Floor New York, NY 10018 P: 212.315.0800 F: 212.271.2239 www.nyluxury.com www.davlermedia.com

Chief Executive Officer: David L. Miller Quarterly circulation is audited by BPA Worldwide NO PORTION OF THIS MAGAZINE, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ARTICLES, LISTINGS, MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE EXPRESSED WRITTEN PERMISION OF THE PUBLISHERS. Copyright: 2010 by Davler Media Group LLC. 212.315.0800.

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A Sampling of our 75 Superb Antique and Modern Boutiques. See them all in our Midtown Manhattan showroom and online at Center44.com. 222 East 44th Street New York, NY 10017 212-450-7988 • Center44.com

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EDITOR’S PICKS

Vineyard Vines’ 100% importedsilk, handmade ties, from left: “Burgee” in Dutch Blue, “Bar Stripe” in Marine, “Micro Dot” in Palm Beach, “Stripe” in Lily Pad, “Sailboat” in Mariner. $75 each. Bloomingdale’s, 1000 Third Avenue (59th Street); 212-705-2000; bloomingdales.com, vineyardvines.com

tie one on... Time to dump the flip flops and the T-shirts and disconsolately face the end of summer’s Casual Fridays. Back-to-work season means more formal dressing. (Read: Break out the ties.) If you’re still lusting for summer, though, transition through fall with brighter, pastel-y neckwear, before you start sporting the winter Repps and bold, jewel colors. A few ideas for tying the (Windsor) knot here. By Ruth J. Katz

From designer Josh Bach, two fun ties, both in silk, and hand-finished in Long Island City: “Civitas,” featuring a refined view of the map of Gotham, in a sunny blue. $55. Museum of the City of New York, 220 Fifth Avenue (103rd Street); 212-534-1672; mcny.org

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For the dog-lover in you, “Paw Prints” in Rover’s favorite bright red. $45. Tiecoon, Pennsylvania Station (Amtrak Level); Seventh Avenue and 33rd Street; 212-904-1433; joshbach.com

Two different colorways of a swirling, paisleylike design, handcrafted in 100% silk, from celebrated Italian designer Kiton. $245 each. Peter Elliot Men, 1070 Madison Avenue (81st/82nd Streets); 212-570-2300

A duo of classic styles from Brooks Brothers: “Fuchsia and Navy Stripe” with narrower white bands (near right) and “Pink Twill Track” (far right), with alternating stripes in a tri-color combo, with slivers of white accents. $75 each. Brooks Brothers, 346 Madison Avenue (44th Street); 212-682-8800; brooksbrothers.com

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HOTEL WALDORF-ASTORIA 301 PARK AVENUE 212-751-9824 509 MADISON AVENUE AT 53RD STREET 212-888-0505 800-CELLINI NEW YORK, NY  10022 www.CelliniJewelers.com

Brilliance in Black anD White Make a striking statement with our Black and White Diamond collection


editor’s picks

Topflight Tips for the Discerning Traveler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

virtual voyager

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By Griffin Miller

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Brut, Bubbly And Above It All

Uncompromisingly unique, France’s latest acquisition is PerchingBar, a posh, treehouse-style champagne bar overlooking a most apt vista: the Champagne countryside. Set in the heart of Arboxygene Park in Reims, and constructed around a tree and rising 18 feet above the ground – accessible via a wooden footbridge – PerchingBar has more than a few tantalizing highlights, including armchairs and champagne buckets suspended from the ceiling, and, at night, illuminated champagne flutes. As for its wine list, PerchingBar offers champagnes from both Grandes Maisons (major champagne houses) and specially selected cuvees (vintages) from regional producers. Dining is also available by reservation only. perchingbar.eu t

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In the P.S. Department: Barbie fans should check out the gloriously over-the-top Barbie Suite at The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, palms.com, while discriminating wee vacationers will be charmed by the Dr. Seuss-themed Kids Suites at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort. loewshotels.com

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International Connections

Jetsetting fashionistas and globe-trotting execs have an ally in Yves Saint Laurent, whose Travel Power Adapter (one piece/dual voltage) ensures everything from laptops to curling irons will work in over 150 countries around the world. So bring that electric shaver to Tokyo, charge your BlackBerry and iPod with wild abandon in Venice and Melbourne and do it with stylized panache. The adapter costs $450 and comes in a nifty little drum shaped leather case (super functionality and couture allure included!). ysl.com

Four Seasons

The Suite – a study in whimsy full of “surprises and distinct ‘Eloise moments’” – includes a room for parents (or a British Nanny!) and separate Eloise bedroom, in “rawther” perfect Eloise-ian pink with black accents, thank you very much. ThePlaza.com

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The Plaza Hotel

Why, the new one-of-a-kind suite at The Plaza Hotel, that’s what! I refer, of course, to the recently launched Eloise Luxury Suite created by maverick fashion designer Betsey Johnson. And who better to bring the precocious spirit of Kay Thompson’s famous Plaza denizen to 21stcentury tykes? Clearly Johnson, like Eloise, lives by the mantra, “Here’s what I like to do: Make things up.”

Bloodlust In Budapest...

It started with 15th-century Transylvanian psychopath Vlad the Impaler and hit pay dirt with novelist Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula in 1897 – defined by Hollywood via Bela Lugosi in 1931 and perpetuated by decades of vampire-themed B-flicks. Then came Anne Rice’s Lestat, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel…. all leading up to the 21st-century vampire renaissance sparked by the Twilight saga of films and True Blood. Now for those enticed by “the children of the night,” The Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest is offering an upscale tour of the dark side: “Twilight in Budapest,” a half-day limousine outing that includes a winding uphill trip to Visegrad Castle where Vlad was imprisoned. Post-tour, guests return to Gresham Palace’s historic bar for a glass of Bikaver (a.k.a. “Bulls Blood”), an excellent Hungarian red wine. (Through 12/31/10.) fourseasons.com/Prague

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Escape to Doral Arrowwood for a Getaway Weekend. Treat yourself to a refreshing weekend at Doral Arrowwood. Located on 114 acres in the heart of Westchester County, you’ll feel like you are a world away. There’s plenty to keep you busy: a round of golf, a game of tennis or a workout in our Sports Center. We also offer plenty of ways to relax: sauna, massage or lounging by the indoor/outdoor heated pool. In the evening, you can dance the night away at our Saturday Night Dinner Dance, or go al fresco at Mulligans. If you want to stay in the sports loop, drop by The Pub, where the big screen TVs will keep you on top of the action. Next time you’re thinking of getting away, think Doral Arrowwood.

Packages include a luxurious guestroom and a delicious breakfast.

Call Today. 866-312-0401 T O L L F R E E

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SHOPPINGNEW YORK

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Luca Luca

Chanel

Vera Wang

Tibi

fab fur the runway report:

a season of

I

t seems that each season, when we report the fashion runway’s highlights, we find some design statements that are holdovers from the previous season. That’s because fashion evolves, as styles build on previous silhouettes, and then extend to a look that is more exciting, something that makes you drop your jaw and say, “Wow!” So, while last season we remarked on the interesting prints the runway presented, this season—winter, when we usually expect woolen tweeds and solid cashmeres—we are finding all manner of surprising print applications, splashes of color, and demure patterns, many of which (from Erdem, Ralph Lauren, Rodarte, and of course, the perennial pattern guru, Missoni) will assuredly make you say “Oooh! There are also intricate, textured surfaces, resplendent with embroidery, fur, trims, and painterly looks. Similarly, in winter, we expect suits and warm wools, of course, but the newest suitings draw on last season’s unusual pairings: Mix-and-match suits that are simply not your mother’s lunch-club outfits. What we have this winter are far more attention-grabbing ensembles—from Ports 1961, Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière, and Marc Jacobs among the many—some with asymmetric jackets, or unexpected poufy skirts, or unusual leggings as a suit bottom. Suit jackets are not classic, either; they are tapered in some places and loose in others, sometimes with unusual collars, while sleeves are non-

winter wows! By Ruth J. Katz

traditional, as well, with raglan, leg-o’-mutton, or even saddle shoulders. This winter’s finery draws on all the richness we’ve seen the past few season—lots of glitz and an abundance of fur—and at almost every show (Alexander McQueen, Balmain, Emilio Pucci, Rochas, Jason Wu, and Proenza Schouler, among the countless runway presentations) there was what we’d call (for lack of another name) sporty luxury: Woolen suits with lots of lace and opulent fur; or tweeds with over-the-top trims in glamorous Lurex; or fantastic necklaces on plain cashmeres; or solid Melton wools with dramatic embroideries. Fur was in evidence nearly everywhere—Fendi (of course), Lanvin, Chanel, Michael Kors, Gucci, Valentino, Thakoon, among the hordes. The past two seasons we’ve seen lots of bare leg; this season legs are quite visible, but swathed in silhouette-hugging leggings, clingy Spandex, or in very tapered pants. Look to John Galliano, Akris, Dries Van Noten, Prada, and Vera Wang for some of these narrow-leg fashions. The neutrals are still in full force, and the canvas that in past seasons so readily embraced ivory, vanilla, cream, beige, and tan, has now exploded to all tones neutral, from charcoal and pewter to mushroom and fawn. When you start shopping for these winter wonders, show-stoppers are what you’ll find. n 17

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SHOPPINGNEW YORK

Galliano

Vera Wang

glam gams

Hervé Léger

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the runway report

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SHOPPINGNEW YORK Prada

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Tibi

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Issey Miyake

J. Mendel

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the runway report Prada Chanel

suited up

Issey Miyake

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STYLENEW YORK Clockwise from top left: [ Four IWC watches, including a favorite of Carney’s, the stainless steel Portuguese model, on the left and seen up-close in the next picture, showing off the watch’s delicate, rose-gold Arabic numerals; four Rolex models, often displayed together in a Rolex box; a typical vignette of watches in an antique wooden box; the Girard-Perregaux ww.tc Financial, another favorite. ]

Keeping Time A. Lange & Söhne. Cartier. Girard-Perregaux. Rolex. Treasures from these renowned watchmakers are all part of Hampton Carney’s ever-expanding collection. By Ruth J. Katz Photos by Jonathan Hökklo

“W

hen I get something new, I tend to keep it in heavy circulation, at least for a while,” quips Hampton Carney, a New York City public relations executive, who, at 39—and with nearly two dozen timepieces in his treasure trove—is well on his way to Major League Collecting. He has bought 12 new watches and four vintage ones over the years, plus he has serendipitously inherited a few fine specimens. And with every acquisition, he confesses, “I want to really experience it, experiment with it, enjoy it.” Carney, a native of Nashville, has had a passion for watches since high school, and it shows when he begins to talk about them. His jade eyes sparkle,

his warm smile dances, his face animates. He says simply, “I’m at my happiest when I’m talking about watches.” His first piece, a lovely Longines, was inherited from his grandfather, and bears a touching inscription, “From AH to AHC” and is a prized possession. With its acquisition, he notes slyly, “I caught the bug.” It was not long after, when he got his first big paycheck post-college, that a vintage Rolex Oyster Precision crept into his arsenal. Another inherited piece, a vintage Cartier, left to him by a dear friend (who had to know in his heart that Carney would be the ideal custodian of a precious timepiece) is also cherished. It’s a gold dress watch with an enamel dial, delicate Roman numerals, and a handsome sapphire cabochon on the

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What Collectors Want… Some thoughts from leading experts in the field. Bertram Kalisher wears many hats. He is the Executive Director of the American Watch Guild, an organization of watch retailers and manufacturers; he is the executive editor of Chronos magazine, a watch specialty publication; and he is the author of several books, among them Chronograph to Complication. “Men tend to be fascinated with the inner workings of watches, and the more complicated they are and the more functions they have, the better. They may start with self-winding watches, calendar watches, moonphase watches, and ultimately collect repeater watches that chime the hour, and the much-sought-after feature, the tourbillon. A highly complicated watch could have over 700 handmade parts to it.”

[ Carney, wearing his Perregaux...and his Boxer Pistol, wearing her natural coat ]

winding stem. “It’s sedate and elegant, not showy, just quietly stylish.” He also inherited another gold Longines (both Longines are mid-20th century); in addition, the last of the inherited quartet is a gold Omega Seamaster, on a custom-made bracelet, from the ’50s. It’s clear Carney has a special affinity for each of his “children” and he speaks lovingly about them all. Unlike many collectors who keep their watches stored and out of view, he enjoys displaying them, in charming vignettes around his apartment. There is an irony to these studied tableaux, in that they are hardly what a still life is all about, since they all move with grace and precision. Another treasure is a Patek Philippe, traditionally an aspirational brand for collectors. “Since I acquired this vintage Patek, I find it hard not to wear it,” he observes, discussing the Calatrava-style dress watch with a backwind, from about 1970. “I always wear it when I’m in a ‘gold mood’ and I find that this watch generates the most comments.” While all of Carney’s watches are special, he says that his prize is an A. Lange & Söhne. “This is a treasure,” he acknowledges, like a proud parent. He allows that it was a pricey splurge at $45,000, but the Lange 1 platinum—with a 39 mm. case, a power reserve indicator, and an especially large date window—is, he revels, “amazing. It’s got its own little soul and I think even people who do not know watches, sense that this is something special.” When Carney feels a little sporty, he might reach for a special 42 mm. Girard-Perregaux to wear with a suit; “It’s got a sporty feel to it, so I like to wear it that way.” He shows this model off, quick to point out that this ww.tc Financial, as it’s dubbed, is the first chronograph that shows the business hours of four different stock markets (New York, London, Hong Kong, and Tokyo) and displays 24 different world time zones. It’s technically and aesthetically a masterpiece. Is there anything that would make Carney happier? Well, probably acquiring that elusive tourbillon, and crossing off all the watches on his wish list. But, as every collector knows, the latter never happens; there is always something new to covet, another sought-after timepiece. What else, then, about watches makes him blissful? “Going to the various factories in the mountain and valley towns of Switzerland and Germany. It’s like a fairy tale, where I am sure Hansel and Gretel live.” n

Jeff Prine, former executive editor of Modern Jeweler, is a contributing editor to several consumer watch and trade magazines, and a consultant in the industry. “The most desirable watches are the ones with the most interesting mix of complications. One-of-a-kind and limited editions are always sought after, but given the economy, collectors are seeking more moderately priced, limited editions, at least for the moment, abandoning timepieces in platinum or those with the priciest complications. By “more moderate,” I mean watches that sell for $5,000 to $15,000. Up until the last few years, the ultimate complication was the tourbillon, but right now the hot complication is the minute repeater. “With mechanical watches, the most interesting thing is the mechanics—not whether a watch is diamondencrusted or even crafted from a precious metal. There are steel watches that are complicated that sell for $20,000.” Edward Faber is the founder of the 33-year-old Aaron Faber Gallery, which arguably was the originator of the revival in vintage watch-collecting in New York. “Within the last five years or so, women have emerged as serious collectors, as they have acquired more independent means. They have discovered that ‘the boys’ were onto something good in collecting mechanical vintage watches. The smaller, vintage men’s watches, say with 32 mm. faces, are ideal for a woman’s wrist. Women seem to collect in two veins: One is to seek the ‘glamour watches’ that were made with an eye toward the Hollywood of the ‘20s, ‘30s, ‘40s, and early ‘50s. They were invariably rose gold or platinum, and almost always had a great look and real verve. Today, they are trading way below market [value] and below what a new steel-and-diamond modern watch would currently sell for. There is another group who seek watches that were made for men in the mid-20th century, like the Rolex Explorer I, or the simple Rolex Perpetual [automatic] Datejust.” 23

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SHOPPINGNEW YORK

Wempe’s “Sundance” rings fashioned in 18-kt. rose, white, and yellow gold, with assorted colored gemstones. $1,735 and up. Wempe, 700 Fifth Avenue (55th Street); 212-397-9000, 800-513-1131; wempe.com

“Renaissance” rings in 20-kt. peach gold with cabochon and faceted sapphires and rubies. $4,500 to $5,900. Reinstein / Ross, 29 East 73rd Street (Fifth/Madison Avenues); 212-772-1901;122 Prince Street (Greene/Wooster Streets); 212-226-4513; reinsteinross.com

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Assorted, playful, narrow bangles in 18-kt. yellow gold by Bertoni Designs. $2,570 to $3,458. La Lumia, 27 Park Place (Church Street), Suite 200; 212-966-3923

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“Bamboo” band rings in 18-kt. rose, yellow, and white gold with diamond accents. From $2,000. Mish New York, 131 East 70th Street (Park/Lexington Avenues); 212-734-3500; mishnewyork.com

▼ From the stunning, exotic-looking “Enamel” collection by Maya Jewels, a correlated group of 22-kt. gold and enamel bangles. Top, $17,400; bottom, $23,700; right, $15,200. Maya Jewels, 212-473-2291; mayajewels.com

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stunning

stacks

When one is simply not enough...

Vintage-looking, sumptuous 18-kt. gold rings set with assorted colored sapphires and diamonds, from designer Alex Sepkus. $1,650 to $3,250. Bergdorf Goodman, 754 Fifth Avenue (57th Street); 212-753-7300, 800-558-1855; bergdorfgoodman.com, alexsepkus.com

Pity poor Venus de Milo. No hands, let alone arms, for stacking rings and bracelets. From time immemorial, women have sought to embellish their appendages with sparkling things—many sparkling things: Cleopatra stacked bracelets around her upper arm, African tribeswomen put garlands of jewels around their necks, American teenagers in the 50s wrapped delicate chains around their ankles. If only we had a few additional limbs, like the many fanciful goddesses of various mythologies, we’d adorn ourselves with even more! However, given our ten fingers and two arms, we do a fairly respectable job of piling on the elegant bling. Herewith, some ideas for transforming stacks into towers! By Ruth J. Katz

Bangles that dangle, perfect to cascade down an arm. In 18-kt. vermeil from designer Elyssa Bass, they feature stones which include sapphires, amethysts, rubies, and labradorite, among the mix. $198 each. Henri Bendel, 712 Fifth Avenue (55th/56th Streets); 800-423-6335; henribendel.com, elyssabassdesigns.com

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SHOPPINGNEW YORK

Striking 20-kt. peach gold “Hoopstock” rings, featuring center stones (a brown diamond, sapphires, and a ruby) flanked by diamonds along the band, highlighting the center stone. $1,650 to $2,800. Reinstein / Ross, 29 East 73rd Street (Fifth/Madison Avenues); 212-772-1901; 122 Prince Street (Greene/Wooster Streets); 212-226-4513; reinsteinross.com

Handcarved, ebony and boxtree wood bangles by Raffaella Mannelli. $200 each. Bergdorf Goodman, 754 Fifth Avenue (57th Street); 212-753-7300, 800-558-1855; bergdorfgoodman.com

▼ “Antiquity” bangles, featuring undulating, curvy metal, in 20-kt. yellow gold, with and without diamonds set into the edge, by designer Coomi. $11,000 without diamonds, $15,000 with diamonds. Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Avenue (49th/50th Streets); 877-551-7257, 212-753-4000; saksfifthavenue.com; 866-867-7272 for more information.

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From jeweler Yossi Harari, handcrafted, oxidized-gilver (a proprietary metal composition of the designer’s) and sapphire “Mica” bangles. $8,365 each. Bergdorf Goodman, 754 Fifth Avenue (57th Street); 212-753-7300, 800-558-1855; bergdorfgoodman.com, yossiharari.com

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stunning

stacks

Kwiat’s narrow stacking bands, available in ruby; blue, pink, and yellow sapphire; as well as in white, yellow, black, and brown diamonds set in 18-kt. rose, white, or yellow gold. $1,000 to $3,000. Kwiat, 725 Madison Avenue (64th Street); 212-725-7777, 800-927-4367; kwiat.com

▼ Silver-tone and crystal bangles, sold as a set, from ABS by Allen Schwartz. $175. Bloomingdale’s, 1000 Third Avenue (59th Street); 212-705-2000; bloomingdales.com

Stackable 18-kt. yellow-gold rings, featuring stones of smoky quartz, amethyst, and lemon quartz, with diamonds, accented with Carelle’s signature leaf motif gallery. $655 each. Carelle, 800-225-7782; carelle.com

▼ Stackable enamel rings in 18-kt. gold, in a myriad of designs, some with diamond accents, all by that masterful maestro of enamel stackables, Silvio Hidalgo. $400 to $2,000. Maurice Badler Jewelers, 578 Fifth Avenue (47th Street); 800-622-3537; badler.com, hidalgojewelry.com

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STYLENEW YORK

talking with

Andrew Schloss

As one of the new owners of the legendary jeweler Reinstein/Ross, now celebrating its 25th anniversary, Schloss pays homage to the company’s original iconic designs, hand-made on the Madison Avenue premises. By Kaitlin Ahern Above: [ Persian cuff, 25th anniversary edition, first produced in 1985. Sterling silver with 22k yellow gold and bezel-set cabochon sapphires ]

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adison Avenue is the renowned home to some of the world’s most contemporary luxury retailers. But step into the Reinstein/Ross store at Madison Avenue and 73rd Street, and you’ll be transported to a time when jewelry was made exclusively by hand with the most intricate attention to detail. Goldsmiths here use techniques that were invented by the Romans, dating back about 5,000 years, and the designs are evocative of those worn by ancient cultures such as the Egyptians and Etruscans. And yet, the store belongs here: Its elaborate and romantic designs, forged from ancient techniques, have a timeless elegance that lends itself well to the modern world. Signature pieces include stackable rings and bracelets, a look that has since been copied by many high-end designers; the original hoop and interchangeable drop earring collection; and hand-woven gold chains. Together with all Reinstein/Ross creations, these pieces celebrate the company’s passion for hand-done gold work and unusual precious stones from around the world. This year, Reinstein/Ross celebrates its 25th anniversary. Though the company has changed owners—in 2007, Susan Reinstein and Brian Ross handed over the reins to long-time colleagues Nancy Bloom and Andrew Schloss—its approach to producing high-quality, unusually beautiful adornments has remained the same since 1985, when it opened its original store in SoHo and set the standard for a new generation of jewelry design. We caught up with co-owner Andrew Schloss to find out how his company will celebrate its silver anniversary and what the future holds for the iconic brand.

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[ 1) A tumbled stack of sapphire rings by Reinstein/Ross goldsmiths 2) diamond Renaissance ring in 20k peach gold 3) woven chain bracelet with multi-colored sapphire clasp in 22k apricot gold 4) Tania rings with orange and purple faceted sapphires in 20k peach gold 5) blue dogwood cloisonneé pendant on Isabella chain in 22k yellow gold 6) Eclipse cufflinks with granulation in 22k yellow gold 7) tulip cloisonneé pendant on Isabella chain in 20k peach gold 8) wildflower diamond slice pendant on black diamond Isabella necklace in 22k yellow gold 9) cylinder

cufflinks with citrine and 20k peach gold bars ]

Q. How did the change in ownership occur? Nancy and I have known and worked with Brian and Susan for over 20 years. We really believe in what they created and we want to keep it going. We didn’t come in to change it. Q. How are you celebrating your 25th anniversary? We’re actually celebrating all year with a number of events in our stores. [And] we have an incredible archive of Susan’s designs. (She’s continuing to design with us and is constantly developing new things.) There are some really wonderful pieces that were part of her original collection in 1985, and we have decided to bring some of these things back and launch them this fall. We’re working on a few bracelets that have been out of production for a long time, some of which use sterling silver. These are unique pieces that the public hasn’t seen in a long time. They celebrate our style of goldsmithing, use fancy and unusual precious stones like sapphires, which we’re known for, and feature intricate, hand-done gold work. Q. Are all your pieces are made on-site in your Madison Avenue store? Yes, all of the work is done in-house by our goldsmiths; it’s one of the really unusual things in our business. Nothing is mass produced. It’s fun in this world and this economy not only to say that we’re made in the US, but we’re made in New York, on Madison Avenue. We’re proud of that. In a world that has gone increasingly toward mass production, our work has gone the opposite way, where everything is done by hand. Q. How many designers do you have? Right now Susan is our only designer—she’s still designing all her jewelry, and we’re producing the jewelry she’s designed for the past 25 years. She’s a very important designer in history, based on classical goldsmithing techniques that she perfected in the late 70s and 80s. She’s influenced an entire generation of designers. When Susan and Brian started the company [in 1985], people thought gold was just shiny, 14 karat gold and sapphires were blue. They brought in orange, yellow, etc. No one was doing that kind of work or using those stones in 1985.

Q. What is the goldsmithing process Reinstein/Ross uses? We start with 24 karat pure gold in our studio, then add small amounts of other metals that add strength, durability, and color. We have five custom colors we alloy to the gold, including 18, 22, and 24 karat gold, and we use a matte finish a lot of the time. We also use a technique called granulation: We take tiny, handmade spheres of 24 karat gold and fuse them by hand—using ancient techniques— to make unique patterns. We’re radically different; when the store opened in 1985 very few people had seen any of this. Now you see a lot of people that are doing somewhat that same style of work, though not exactly the same process because it’s so labor intensive. But it’s something we remain very committed to. Q. When someone wears a Reinstein/Ross piece, what kind of statement are they making about themselves? With our jewelry, it takes a little education and visual acuity to understand and appreciate it. The people who shop here are distinct. They’re individuals, and they care about and understand quality, design, and aesthetics. They have particular preferences, and I think it’s exciting for the client and for us because we don’t make the exact same piece twice. They really end up with something very personal, that has meaning, because they were involved in the process. Q. Custom-made jewelry is a big part of the company. What do you offer in terms of custom-made pieces? We love working with clients on custom jewelry or heirloom pieces. We can create a unique piece for them out of Reinstein/Ross raw material. They bring in the jew212-772-1901; reinsteinross.com elry or stone, and we evaluate the opportunities to create a new piece. A person may come in with a plan for the stone, or sometimes they just say they want to remake the piece. We help them figure out how they can use it and let them be involved in the design process of the piece. It’s really part of the culture of the business and is something we really enjoy. n 29

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Aaron Basha is a luxury jewelry brand known for its whimsical designs. Most celebrated for its famous jeweled Baby Shoe pendants, Aaron Basha brings style and elegance to every creation, while consistently following its trademark theme of “Forever Young.” All of the designs are delicately handcrafted in Italy in a wide range of choice and styles, from pure 18 karat gold to a rainbow of colored enamel. Sophisticated and playful, the Aaron Basha designs have captured many hearts, with such high-profile clientele as Hollywood celebrities, international royalty, as well as many influential members of the fashion industry. 680 Madison Ave. (61st St.), 212-935-1960; aaronbasha.com

New York Art and Antiques

SHOPPING

Center44 – A unique and dramatic shopping experience with 70 extraordinary international antiques dealers featured in a block-long showroom of open-room settings, with aisles of antiquities (from ancient to the 19th century), 20th-century design—including Deco, Modernism, and Futurism—and unique contemporary art and objects. On-site skilled artisans provide furniture and art restoration, as well as traditional upholstery. 222 E. 44th St. (Second-Third Aves.), 212-450-7988; center44.com

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Imperial Oriental Art – A distinguished name in the field of Chinese ceramics and works of art specializing in fine quality work over a range of various dynasties, including Ming and Qing. Also offered is an extensive selection of Blue and White, Famille Rose, Famille Verte and the finest quality of Qing monochomes in America. 790 Madison Ave. (66th-67th Sts.), Third Floor, 212-717-5383; imperialorientalart.com

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Showplace Antique Center – Over 250 galleries located on 4 spacious floors featuring Art Deco, Art Nouveau, mid-century Modern, bronze, silver, jewelry, vintage clothing & accessories, ceramics, art glass, antiquities, period furniture & lighting. Don’t miss the 3rd floor featuring designer room settings and over 50 showcases filled with an eclectic range of decoratives and collectibles. Mon.-Fri, 10am-6pm; Sat.-Sun., 8:30am-5:30pm. Silversmith, Espresso Bar & Café on the premises. 40 W. 25th St., 212-633-6063; nyshowplace.com

offered in a variety of styles. Their restaurant, Fred’s at Madison Avenue, is open for brunch, lunch and dinner. 660 Madison Ave. (61st St.), 212-826-8900; barneys.com

Department and Specialty Stores

Bloomingdale’s – One of the world’s most famous landmark department stores. The best international fashions and home furnishings are brought together under a single Art Deco roof, in a store that encompasses a full city block and more than 500 departments. 1000 Third Ave. (59th-60th Sts.), 212-705-2000; The SoHo branch is located at 504 Broadway (Spring-Broome Sts.), 212-729-5900; bloomingdales.com

Barneys New York – Long identified with New York chic and sophistication, Barneys features international men’s and women’s fashion designers ranging from the classically understated to the flamboyantly avant garde. Accessories, formal wear, cosmetics, and shoes are also

Bergdorf Goodman – Among the nation’s most prestigious shops, featuring women’s fashion designs from Armani, Chanel, Versace and Ferre, to Tyler, Galliano, and Westwood. 754 Fifth Ave. (57th-58th Sts.), 212-753-7300; The men’s store is located at 745 Fifth Ave. (58th St.), 212-339-3310; bergdorfgoodman.com

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SHOPPING SPOTLIGHT

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Century 21 Department Store – “New York’s Best-Kept Secret” with high-quality European and American designer merchandise at 40-70% off retail prices. 22 Cortlandt St. (Church St.Broadway), 212-227-9092; c21stores.com Hammacher Schlemmer – The landmark store for America’s longest-running catalog, offering unique products that solve problems, further your lifestyle, or represent the only one of their kind. 147 E. 57th St., 212-421-9002; hammacher.com Henri Bendel – This ultra-chic, elegant Fifth Avenue retailer features Lalique windows, in-store Lalique history and displays, and multiple dramatic spiral staircases. It makes for a wonderful backdrop for the high-end goods, including top women’s labels. 712 Fifth Ave. (56th St.), 212-247-1100; henribendel.com Lord & Taylor – Generations have shopped year-round at this, their flagship store, established in 1914, attracted by their focus on the American look and American designers, offering a vast selection of reasonably priced sportswear in all sizes, and particularly fine high-quality shoes and accessories. 424 Fifth Ave. (39th St.), 212-391-3344; lordandtaylor.com Macy’s – “The world’s largest store,” and one of NYC’s most visited landmark attractions. The world’s first department store maintains a huge stock of everything from sofas to caviar, clothing, and everything in between. Broadway & 34th St., 212-695-4400; macys.com Saks Fifth Avenue – This venerated symbol of class and elegance began in 1924 as the brainchild of Horace Saks and Bernard Gimbel.

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Their flagship “dream store,” a New York City landmark since 1985, features nine floors of grand luxury, stocked with exclusive items for men and women. 611 Fifth Ave. (49th-50th Sts.), 212-753-4000; saksfifthavenue.com

Fashion AND Accessories ADAM – Fashion designer Adam Lippes’ outpost, featuring luxurious fashion apparel for men and women, including runway designs and daytime basics. 678 Hudson St. (14th St.), 212-229-2838; shopadam.com Balenciaga – A futuristic, luxurious environment, with fashions that meld the avant-garde with classically wearable designs. 542 W. 22nd St., 212-206-0872; balenciaga.com BCBG Max Azria – Modern and chic suits, separates, jeans, coats, dresses, handbags, and accessories for fashion-forward women. 770 Madison Ave. (66th St.), 212-717-4225; 120 Wooster St. (Prince St.), 212-625-2723; bcbg.com Brooks Brothers – Classically modern business and casual clothing for fashionable men and women, including dress shirts, ties, pants, sweaters, and polos. 1 Liberty Plaza (Broadway), 212-267-2400; 346 Madison Ave. (44th St.), 212-682-8800; brooksbrothers.com Burberry – This luxury brand, synonymous with its signature house check–the camel, black, red, and white pattern–offers men’s, women’s, children’s, and babywear lines, fragrances, golf, eyewear, and home collections. Their made-to-order coat service has customized style and color options.

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160 Columbus Ave. (67th St.), 212-595-0934; 9 E. 57th St., 212-371-5010; 131 Spring St. (Greene St.), 212-925-9300; burberry.com Calvin Klein Collection – This monument to elegant modernity showcases its selection of women and men’s clothing, shoes, and accessories, and the home collection, including china, flatware, glassware, and linens, plus exclusive gift items. 654 Madison Ave. (60th St.), 212-292-9000; calvinklein.com The Carlisle Collection – Stylish women make appointments for an exclusive and personalized shopping experience with couture-quality clothing that can’t be found in stores, including everything from power suits for the executive office to elegant dresses for the evening. 16 E. 52nd St. (Madison-Fifth Aves.), 16th Floor, 212-751-6490; showroom@carlisleny.com; carlislecollection.com Carolina Herrera – Elegant, ultra-feminine, up-to-the-minute women’s dresses and fragrances. 954 Madison Ave. (75th St.), 212-249-6552; carolinaherrera.com Catherine Malandrino – High-end couture fashions that blend the energy of Manhattan and the romance of Paris, and are a favorite among celebrities. SoHo: 468 Broome St. (Greene St.), 212-925-6765; Meatpacking District: 652 Hudson St. (13th St.), 212-929-8710; catherinemalandrino.com Chanel Boutique – Featuring the classic elements of Coco Chanel’s renowned style, showcasing handbags, accessories, shoes, cosmetics, and ready-to-wear by Karl Lagerfeld.

Center44, a 25,000-square-foot showroom located in the heart of Midtown, brings together 75 extraordinary international antiques dealers in a block-long showroom of open-room settings. The spectacular and iconic “Raindrops” chromeand-steel wall sculpture pictured here is a signed Curtis Jere, c. 1970s, that measures over 5 feet wide; available from ReChi. Open to the public from Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm. 222 E. 44th St., 212-450-7988; center44.com

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SHOPPINGNEWYORK

With a history of watchmaking dating back to 1791, Girard-Perregaux recently opened its first U.S. store, a Madison Avenue luxury boutique on the Upper East Side and a beautiful showcase for its authentic Swiss watches. With a deep connection to the Swiss watchmaking tradition it has been enhancing for over two centuries, Girard-Perregaux combines modern technology with the very finest craftsmanship. All of the collections, including the Haute Horlogerie models and limited editions, are showcased in an elegant environment where you can admire truly exceptional watches, among them the famous Tourbillon with three gold Bridges (pictured). 701 Madison Ave. (62nd-63rd Sts.), 646-495-9915; girard-perregaux.com

Since its inception in 1968 in Italy, Monnalisa has become the world leader in the highfashion children’s wear market. The company distinguishes itself with cutting-edge design, with collections that feature a wealth of elegant hand-finished details, embellishments, and adornment. The 2010 Autumn/Winter collection has a sophisticated mood featuring heaps of tartan taffeta, elegant ruffles and bows, and bold hues. Down-filled jackets and tailored coats are trimmed with beautiful crystal details. Matching shoes and accessories complete the collection. 1088 Madison Ave. (81st-82nd Sts.), 212-249-9040; monnalisashopny.com

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With a silversmith and an espresso bar and café on the premises—not to mention over 250 galleries on four floors—Showplace Antique Center is one of the city’s premier destinations for antiques and decorative and fine art. The possibilities within are endless, with Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and mid-century Modern pieces to complement bronze, silver, jewelry, vintage clothing and accessories, ceramics, art glass, antiquities, period furniture, lighting, and much more. Be sure to save time for the 3rd floor, which features designer room settings and over 50 showcases filled with an eclectic range of decoratives and collectibles. 40 W. 25th St., 212-633-6063; nyshowplace.com

15 E. 57th St., 212-355-5050; 139 Spring St. (Wooster St.), 212-334-0055; chanel.com Davide Cenci – The women’s collection features Italian-made cashmere sweaters, shirts, dress suits, and slacks in various styles and colors, an assortment of outerwear and accessories tailored with unmistakable flair. The men’s collection features comfortable Italian-made suits, sport coats, pants, shirts, and accessories. 801 Madison Ave. (68th St.), 212-628-5910; davidecenci.com Derek Lam – Classic American fashion for women: elegant, modern, and ready-to-wear, plus limited-edition pieces, custom-made furniture, and more. 12 Crosby St. (Grand St.), 212-929-1338; dereklam.com Diane Von Furstenberg – Signature wrap dresses to flirty sportswear, swimwear, accessories, and more from the fashion icon. 874 Washington St. (14th St.), 646-486-4800; dvf.com DKNY – Lifestyle clothing, accessories, and more embracing the fun and “real” styles of New York from Donna Karan. 420 West Broadway (Spring St.), 646-613-1100; 655 Madison Ave. (60th St.), 212-223-3569; dkny.com Dolce & Gabbana – Ultra-modern Italian fashions, including men’s formalwear and more adventurous women’s fashions. 825 Madison Ave. (69th St.), 212-249-4100; dolcegabbana.com Donna Karan – This three-story home to the famed designer’s timeless collection is where simplicity meets glamour. 819 Madison Ave. (68th St.), 866-240-4700; donnakaran.com Dooney & Bourke – Designer handbags and small leather goods featuring trendy animal prints, soft suede, and their trademark logo. 20 E. 60th St. (Madison-Park Aves.), 212-223-7444; dooney.com Eileen Fisher – Classic women’s fashions promoting simplicity, versatility, beauty, and creativity. 395 West Broadway, 212-431-4567; 521 Madison Ave. (53rd-54th Sts.), 12-759-9888; 341 Columbus Ave. (76th St.), 212-362-3000; 314 E. 9th St., 212-529-5715; 1039 Madison Ave. (79th-80th Sts.), 212-879-7799; 166 Fifth Ave. (21st-22nd Sts.), 212-924-4777; eileenfisher.com Elie Tahari – Women’s ready-to-wear fashions and accessories, including suits, cutting-edge sportswear and dresses. 417 West Broadway (Spring St.), 212-334-4441; elietahari.com Emilio Pucci – Women’s clothing, hats, and shoes featuring brightly colored, often psychedelic, ultra-mod prints. 24 E. 64th St., 212-752-4777; 701 Fifth Ave. (54th St.), 212-230-1135; emiliopucci.com Eryn brinié – Inspired by “French chic and urban spirit,” this collection of clothing, shoes, and handbags for women merges refined, sophisticated silhouettes with modern sensibility.

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501 Broadway (Broome St.,), 212-308-6134; erynbrinie.com Façonnable – Designed in France, Façonnable offers classic men’s and women’s clothing and accessories made with exclusive fabrications and impeccable craftsmanship. 636 Fifth Ave. (51st St.), 212-319-0111; faconnable.com Giorgio Armani – The Italian designer’s fourlevel flagship features understated suits, elegant sportswear, outerwear, and exquisite evening wear for men and women. 760 Madison Ave. (65th St.), 212-988-9191; giorgioarmani.com Gucci – A name synonymous with haute couture and classic sophistication, the Italian luxurygoods company’s flagship store features five floors of cowhide sling-back chairs, up-to-the-minute handbags, signature jewelry, and men’s and women’s shoes and apparel. 725 Fifth Ave. (56th St.), 212-826-2600; 840 Madison Ave. (70th St.), 212-717-2619; gucci.com Hickey Freeman – Tailored clothing for men, including formalwear, men’s dress furnishings, and sportswear, and the hickey line for the younger set. Top-of-the-line fabrics, superior craftsmanship, and total uniqueness. 543 Madison Ave. (55th St.), 212-586-6481; hickeyfreeman.com Hugo Boss – With its brands BOSS and HUGO, Hugo Boss covers all the main fashion areas for women and men. Shoes and accessories, fragrances, glasses, watches and more. Shops at Columbus Circle, 212-485-1900; 401 W. 14th St., 646-336-8170; hugoboss.com Huminska – A charming East Village boutique and home to the Huminska line of classic “flirty little dresses” inspired by the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Greta Garbo. 315 E. 9th St., 212-677-3458; huminska.com Intermix – Cutting-edge American and European women’s styles and accessories, from big labels to up-and-coming designers. 125 Fifth Ave. (20th St.), 212-533-9720; 1003 Madison Ave. (77th St.), 212-249-7858; 210 Columbus Ave. (69th St.), 212-769-9116; 365 Bleecker St. (Charles St.), 212-929-7180; 98 Prince St. (Mercer St.), 212-966-5303; intermixonline.com Jack Olive – Italian-made preppy menswear inspired by the sport of cricket. 87 Mercer St. (Spring St.), 212-966-9692; jackolive.com John Varvatos – Home to the Varvatos lifestyle collection, including men’s designer suits, shoes, bags, belts, cologne, and more. 315 Bowery (Bleecker St.), 212-358-0315; 122 Spring St. (Greene St.), 212-965-0700; johnvarvatos.com Krizia – Superbly tailored Italian clothing for men and women, including suits, knitwear, ties, shirts, gowns, handbags, shoes, pants, skirts for day and for evening, as well as fragrances. 769 Madison Ave. (66th St.), 212-879-1211; krizia.net

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The “one-stop dental perfection” approach of Jan Linhart D.D.S., P.C. combines two elements: exceptional, cutting-edge dental treatment in a state-of-the-art facility, and the total patient experience. With multiple specialists, you can get on-the-spot evaluations, diagnoses, and proposed treatments with their areas of expertise including implants, orthodontics, periodontal surgery, and endodontics (root canal). Dr. Linhart can take care of all of your general and cosmetic dental needs as well. 230 Park Ave. (46th St.), 212-682-5180; drlinhart.com

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Lisa Perry Boutique – Women’s, children’s and home lines inspired by the designer’s love of the ’60s genre and characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, primary colors and minimalism, all sprinkled with a sense of whimsy. 976 Madison Ave. (77th St.), 212-334-1956; lisaperrystyle.com

Polo/Ralph Lauren, Madison Avenue – The jewel in the crown of the more than 145 stores worldwide, with authentic antique furniture, men’s and women’s wear, accessories, leather goods, home furnishings, and antiques. 888 Madison Ave. (72nd St.), 212-434-8000; ralphlauren.com

Loro Piana – For over a century, this luxuryclothing manufacturer has produced exquisite vicuna, cashmere, ready-to-wear, and custommade apparel for men, women, and children. 821 Madison Ave. (68th St.), 212-980-7961; loropiana.com

Prada – This specialist in minimalist fashion offers a range of men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, leather goods, and furnishings, as well as other exclusive products. 841 Madison Ave. (70th St.), 212-327-4200; 45 E. 57th St., 212-308-2332; 724 Fifth Ave. (56th St.), 212-664-0010; 575 Broadway (Prince St.), 212-334-8888; prada.com

Louis Vuitton – A showcase for the timeless elegance of the famed line of classic men’s and women’s fashions, handbags, watches and jewelry, and shoes. 1 E. 57th St., 212-758-8877; 116 Greene St. (Prince St.), 212-274-9090; louisvuitton.com Malo – Italian sportswear for men and women, with an emphasis on cashmere. 814 Madison Ave. (68th St.), 212-396-4721; malo.it Marc Jacobs – Casual-chic must-have fashions for men and women including simple dresses, classic tailored suits, and formal wear. 163 Mercer St. (Houston-Prince Sts.), 212-343-1490; 385 Bleecker St. (Perry St.), 212-924-6126; marcjacobs.com Michael Kors – Polished, classic-chic sportswear and accessories for men and women. 974 Madison Ave. (76th St.), 212-452-4685; 101 Prince St. (Greene St.), 212-965-0401; michaelkors.com Moschino – This flagship store offers an array of notions, shoes, and accessories from their Moschino, Moschino Cheap and Chic, Love Moschino, and Moschino Uomo lines. 401 W. 14th St. (Ninth Ave.), 212-243-8600; moschino.com

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Roberto Cavalli – A boutique with “funky, sexy stuff” from the Italian designer that is always fresh, dramatic, and innovative. The more economical Just Cavalli is located at 665 Fifth Ave. (53rd St.). 711 Madison Ave. (63rd St.), 212-755-7722; robertocavalli.com Scoop –The “ultimate closet,” featuring designer shoes, clothing, and accessories from Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Stella McCartney, and others. 473 Broadway (Grand St.), 212-925-3539; 1275 Third Ave. (73rd St.), 212-535-5577; 430 W. 14th St. (Washington St.), 212-929-1244; scoopnyc.com Searle –Best known for shearlings, classic coats and luxurious leathers, Searle offers their own collection and many designer labels appealing to fashion-forward women, from the latest in accessories, handbags, and apparel to swimwear and beauty. 1051 Third Ave (62nd St.), 212-838-5990; 635 Madison Ave. (60th St.), 212-750-5153; 1296 Third Ave. (74th St.), 212-717-5200; searlenyc.com Stella McCartney – The trendy boutique featuring au courant, animal-friendly fashions for women in the heart of the fashionable Meatpacking District. 429 W. 14th St., 212-255-1556; stellamccartney.com

Mulberry – British luxury bags, womenswear, menswear, and interior design. 605 Madison Ave. (58th St.); 387 Bleecker St. (Perry St.), 212-835-4700; mulberry.com

St. John Boutique – High-end knitwear, using their signature blend of wool and rayon. For special service, please ask for James Palazza. 665 Fifth Ave. (53rd St.), 212-755-5252; sjk.com

Nicole Miller – Unique in style, color, print, and fabric, these women’s fashions, including dresses, evening wear, and classic cuts, are often inspired by film imagery and exotic cultures. 780 Madison Ave. (67th St.), 212-288-9779; 77 Greene St. (Broome-Spring Sts.), 212-219-1825; nicolemiller.com

Stuart Weitzman – Elegant, high-fashion shoes and handbags for women. Also a wide selection of bridal and casual footwear. Shops at Columbus Circle, 212-823-9560; 625 Madison Ave. (59th St.), 212-750-2555; 2151 Broadway (76th St.), 212-873-0983; stuartweitzman.com

Paul Stuart – Men’s and women’s clothing exclusively designed with a distinctly American viewpoint, as well as outerwear, furnishings, shoes, and made-to-measure apparel. Madison Ave. & 45th St., 212-682-0320; paulstuart.com

Theory – Hip, classic work-friendly attire for men and women. 40 Gansevoort St. (Greenwich-Hudson Sts.), 212-524-6790; 151 Spring St. (W. B’wayWooster St.), 212-226-3691; 230 Columbus Ave. (70th-71st Sts.), 212-362-3676; theory.com

Peter Elliot – High-end tailored men’s clothing from formalwear to cashmere sweaters geared toward power-lunching businessmen. The cuff-link department is a must-stop. Peter Elliot Women is located at 1071 Madison Ave., 212-570-1551; 1070 Madison Ave. (81st St.), 212-570-2300

Thomas Pink – This premium UK shirt company’s core product is a hand-made Jermyn Street shirt for both gentlemen and ladies, made of the finest two-fold 100-percent Egyptian cotton. 520 Madison Ave. (53rd St.), 212-838-1928; 1155 Sixth Ave. (44th St.), 212-840-9663; Shops at Columbus Circle, 212-823-9650; thomaspink.com

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Unlike traditional spas, Phyto Universe does not offer a menu of wraps and massages; rather, it specializes almost exclusively in hair, scalp and facial treatments based on spa founder Patrick Ales’ celebrated lines of botanical hair products: PHYTO and PhytoSpecifie (available on site). Phyto Universe has diagnostic stations, where clients’ hair and scalp are magnified 200 times with a “hair” scope, and then analyzed by the spa’s experts. When the analysis is complete, technicians make a diagnosis and prescribe targeted solutions. Other treatments range from the “Thirst Quencher” for dry hair, to “Ultimate Express,” an effective—and luxurious—treatment lasting only 60 minutes, to more intensive treatments like “Dandruff Detox,” “Regenerating Thairapy” for thinning hair, and “Vital Force” for damaged and over-processed textured hair. Phyto’s facials are also customized to accommodate clients seeking anti-aging and intense cleansing treatments. 715 Lexington Ave. (enter on 58th St. btw. Lexington & Third Aves.), 212-308-0270; phytouniverse.com

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Known for cutting-edge designs and taking a modern approach to jewelry-making, Yael Sonia’s collections are as unique as each of its owners. Inspired by children’s toys, Sonia’s kinetic jewelry is comprised of rolling spheres, swinging pendulums and spinning tops. It’s jewelry that comes alive with its wearer as the melodic sounds are perpetually emitted when the fine gemstones and pearls meet the art of handcrafted 18K gold structures. Taking her cue from early childhood pleasures, Yael’s interactive kits are a personal invitation from her to participate in the fun of designing, a grown-up chance to recapture a bit of that early childhood innocence. 922 Madison Ave. btw. 73rd & 74th Sts., 212-472-6488; yaelsonia.com

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SHOPPINGNEWYORK

Bric’s Madison represents Bric’s U.S. flagship as well as the company’s first freestanding store in the United States. The store carries a selection of Bric’s merchandise including luggage, handbags and small accessories, which are currently sold at Barney’s New York, specialty luggage stores, and other luxury department stores. A family-owned business founded in 1952 by Mario Briccola in Comasco, Italy, Bric’s has evolved into a strongly established brand, aiming to meet the demands of fashion while staying true to multiple trends. 535 Madison Ave. @ 54th St., 212-688-4490; brics.it

Tracing its roots back to the 1826 partnership of Samuel Lord and George Washington Taylor on the Lower East Side—and now with 46 stores in nine states and the District of Columbia—the upscale specialty department store Lord & Taylor remains one of New York City’s longest surviving businesses. The oldest department store in America, they’ve built a reputation for attentive customer service and high-quality merchandise focused on apparel and accessories. Generations of families have shopped yearround at this, their flagship store, established in 1914, attracted by their focus on the quintessential American look and talented American designers, offering a vast selection of sportswear in all sizes, reasonably priced, and particularly fine high-quality, moderately priced shoes and accessories. But while loyal to their traditional customers, the grand store also accommodates the younger, more modern, hipper shopper as well. 424 Fifth Ave. at 39th St., 212-391-3344; lordandtaylor.com

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Imperial Fine Books Inc. was established in 1989 by Bibi Mohamed, a rare and fine books authority for over 35 years. Family-owned and -operated, the company is the leading specialist in leatherbound sets and fine bindings in all fields: literature, history, children’s, sporting, Americana, colorplate, illustrated, first editions, Cosway, jeweled, Judaica, music and more. Imperial also offers expert gift services, including special wrapping and hand- or typewritten notes with personal inscriptions. Through their “Library Projects,” Imperial can create a collection of any size for home or business. Whether your preference is a deluxe library of leatherbound books or simply finding an exceptional first edition, Imperial’s extensive inventory and custom bookbinding guarantees you the finest craftsmanship and the most sought-after works for your shelves. In addition, they offer other products such as archival boxes, slipcases, guest books and albums in leather or cloth, as well as issuing color catalogs. 790 Madison Ave. (btw. 66th & 67th Sts.), Second Floor; 212-861-6620; imperialfinebooks.com

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tibi – The renowned contemporary dress line, plus a complete shoe line, swimwear, and home accessories. 120 Wooster St. (Prince St.), 212-226-5852; tibi.com Tommy Hilfiger – Featuring the American fashion icon’s collections for men, women and children, including accessories and shoes. 681 Fifth Ave. (54th St.), 212-223-1824; 372 West Broadway (Broome St.), 917-237-0983; tommyhilfiger.com TSE – All things cashmere, for men and women. Sleek and sophisticated, the collection has an urban flair. 120 Wooster St. (Prince St.), 212-925-2520; tsecashmere.com Vera Wang – Featuring some of the finest bridal gowns in the world. 991 Madison Ave. (77th St.), 212-628-3400; 158 Mercer St. (Prince St.), 212-382-2184; verawang.com Yves St. Laurent – Refined, modern, elegant, and upscale men’s and women’s apparel, from tailored suits to refined knits. 3 E. 57th St., 212-980-2970; ysl.com

FURS Maximilian at Bloomingdale’s – Offering an extensive collection of premier designer furs of the highest quality and design. 1000 Third Ave. (60th St.), 212-705-3335; maximilian.com

Jewelry and Watches Aaron Basha - A family-owned and -run Madison Avenue staple, Aaron Basha has made its name with high-fashion jewelry pieces, most notably their distinctive jeweled baby shoes and assortment of baby charms (including frogs, ladybugs, flowers, teddy bears, you name it). They feature heirloom-quality jewelry as well, including bracelets, clasps, cuff links, chains, and much more. 680 Madison Ave. (61st St.), 212-935-1960; aaronbasha.com Cartier - A name synonymous with jewelry since 1847. Peruse the coveted classic gold jewelry, innovative new boutique pieces and the complete range of watches, clocks, leather goods, china, and crystal. 828 Madison Ave. (69th St.), 212-472-6400; 653 Fifth Ave. (52nd St.), 212-753-0111; cartier.com Cellini - Rare, one-of-a-kind jewelry and legendary collection of the world’s finest watches. Its reputation goes far and wide with watch connoisseurs, who also know it as a resource for limited edition timepieces. The window displays inside the Waldorf=Astoria flagship have long been one of NYC’s most beautiful fixtures. 301 Park Ave. (49th St.), 212-751-9824; 509 Madison Ave. (53rd St.), 212-888-0505 Chanel Fine Jewelry - The international luxurygoods company’s stand-alone shop for jewelry,

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which carries the core line of the collection. Take a peek at a modern interpretation of the screens in Coco Chanel’s Parisian apartment. 733 Madison Ave. (64th St.), 212-535-5828; chanel.com Georg Jensen - Trendsetting, luxury jewelry and watches, faithful to the unique Danish design language and committed to high quality and craftsmanship. The collection focuses on gold and sterling silver jewelry. 687 Madison Ave. (62nd St.), 212-759-6457; 125 Wooster St. (Prince St.), 212-343-9000; georgjensen.com Girard-Perregaux - With a history of watchmaking dating back to 1791, Girard-Perregaux just opened its first U.S. store, a Madison Avenue luxury boutique on the Upper East Side. It’s a beautiful showcase for their authentic Swiss watches for men and women, including the Vintage 1945, ww.tc, Haute Horlogerie, and Girard-Perregaux 1966 collections. 701 Madison Ave. (62nd-63rd Sts.), 646-495-9915; girard-perregaux.com Harry Winston - America’s premier jeweler and one of the world’s largest and most prestigious jewelry empires, famous for their huge diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires of the highest quality in hand-made platinum settings. 718 Fifth Ave. (56th St.), 212-245-2000; harrywinston.com Kaufmann de Suisse - Inspired by the symmetry of Art Deco and the romantic fluidity of Art Nouveau, Kaufmann de Suisse has become one of the world’s most recognizable jewelers, renowned for its selection of gemstones set in their custom designs, including many rare D/Flawless diamonds, as well as exceptional rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. 785 Madison Ave. (66th St.), 212-249-5700; kaufmanndesuisse.com Marisa Perry Atelier - Each piece in this collection of fine jewelry is unique and complete— boldly designed, detailed, and finely worked. Fashioned in gold, silver, and platinum, and set with precious and semi-precious stones, the jewelry for women and men—including rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, engagement rings, cuff links and belt buckles—evokes strength, beauty, and sensuality. 154 Prince St. (West Broadway), 212-566-8977; marisaperry.com Mikimoto - This Japanese company, renowned as the originator of cultured pearls for over a century, maintains high standards of quality, craftsmanship, and design. 730 Fifth Ave. (57th St.), 212-457-4600; mikimotoamerica.com Mimi So New York - Mimi So is the go-to name for luxury jewelry that is both modern and feminine. A third-generation jeweler and an alumni of the Parson’s School of Design, Mimi So’s collections are created for wearability from day into evening, and styling for vintage and couture casuals. Mimi So is worn by countless celebrities including Reese Witherspoon, Anne Hathaway, Courtney Cox, and Drew Barrymore. 550 Fifth Ave. (46th St.), Penthouse Salon, 212-300-8655; mimiso.com

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SHOPPINGNEWYORK

Davidoff of Geneva is one of the most popular cigar and accessories shop in America, with two warm and welcoming top-of-the-line shops in Manhattan, and the most comfortable smokers lounges in the city. Davidoff products—which include lighters, cigar cutters, ashtrays, humidors, cigar cases, pipes, and much more—unite craftsmanship, dedication, and understanding culminating in elegant, innovative, and functional pieces. Davidoff’s glass-walled walk-in humidor also features the best cigars and cigarillos available anywhere—over 1,000 to choose from more than 50 different brands including Davidoff, Winston Churchill, Zino Platinum, AVO, The Griffin’s, Super Selection, Zino, Private Stock, Alec Bradley, Ashton, and many others. 535 Madison Ave. (54th St.), 212-751-9060; The Shops at Columbus Circle, 10 Columbus Cir. (59th St.), 212-823-6383; davidoffnewyork.com

Energetic and playful, Sobral’s collections of jewelry and home accessories feature bold geometric shapes and lines and vibrant colors. Designer Carlos Sobral is also an environmentalist, dedicated to creating sustainable art. Eighty percent of the raw material Sobral uses comes from vegetable alcohol derived from wheat and corn, while 20% of the raw material comes from petroleum by-products, reducing the need to mine raw materials. This obsession with recycling has led to a number of technical innovations, including the use of recycled computer circuit boards and organic materials, and new pieces are created from the fragments remaining from previous collections. Pictured here are a variety of Kandinsky rings from Sobral’s Autumn/Winter 2010 collection. 412 West Broadway (Prince-Spring Sts.), 212-226-2710; sobralusa.com

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In the Flatiron District, nestled among luxury bathroom fixture and tile stores, is a little gem of a shop for chic fashionistas: L.O.L. Kids. The bright, fun and friendly atmosphere of the boutique is refreshing, while the selection of high fashion children’s wear is truly impressive, featuring European designers such as Sonia Rykiel Enfant, Roberto Cavalli, Simonetta, Miss Grant, and Monnalisa, to name a few. The boutique’s owner, Joseph Schoenfelder, has been at the forefront of the children’s apparel market for over 30 years and has lived in Europe and New York. “Today’s children are just as fashion-savvy and fashionforward as their parents,” he says, “seeking quality items that are unique and fresh, helping to customize their own personal style.” The boutique is the go-to shopping spot for the little ones. When you visit, you might even “Laugh Out Loud” and say there’s “Lots of Love” at L.O.L. Kids. 22 W. 21st St. (Fifth-Sixth Aves.), 212-929-6521; lol-kids.com.

Reinstein/Ross - Pairing vibrant precious stones and classical goldsmithing techniques, Reinstein/Ross jewelry is designed and hand-fabricated in New York City, in their Madison Avenue shop. Reinstein/Ross jewelry is distinctly contemporary, but reminiscent of Etruscan, Indian and Egyptian jewelry and art, and has a timeless quality. Often featured in magazines, movies and fashion events, the work of Reinstein/Ross has influenced an entire generation of jewelry designers. Custom orders are welcome, including setting your stones in their signature style. 122 Prince St. (Wooster St.), 212-226-4513; 29 E. 73rd St. (Madison Ave.), 212-772-1901; reinsteinross.com Sobral - Energetic and playful, Sobral’s collections of jewelry and home accessories feature bold geometric shapes and lines and vibrant colors, and utilize environmentally friendly techniques. 412 West Broadway (Prince-Spring Sts.), 212-226-2710; sobralusa.com Stephen Russell - Offering one of the most important and carefully chosen vintage jewelry collections available today, complemented with a collection of original contemporary designs. 970 Madison Ave. (76th St.), 212-570-6900; stephenrussell.com Tiffany & Co. - The renowned jewelry store offers luxurious merchandise with the tradition of quality, showcasing a wide variety of jewelry including diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, pearls, and the gold and silver signature collections. Other items include china, crystal, silver, watches and clocks, and fragrances. 727 Fifth Ave. (56th St.), 212-755-8000; tiffany.com Tourneau - America’s leading luxury-watch store features over 8,000 styles from more than 100 world-famous brands. You can even trade in your old watch for a new one. The TimeMachine on 57th St. is a state-of-the-art watch emporium. The Shops at Columbus Circle, 212-823-9425; 12 E. 57th St., 212-758-7300; 500 Madison Ave. (52nd St.), 212-758-6098; tourneau.com Wempe - With over 125 years of tradition and experience, Wempe offers an impressive selection of fine timepieces and clocks, exquisite 18-karat gold and diamond jewelry, cufflinks, and watch straps. Among the brands in its European-style salon with an elegant and inviting atmosphere, are Patek Philippe, A. Lange and Söhne, Rolex, TAG Heuer, Cartier and Jaeger-LeCoultre. Wempe has earned its strong reputation for exceptional customer service with its state-of-the-art service center with three full-time watchmakers.700 Fifth Ave. (55th St.), 212-397-9000; wempe.com Yael Sonia - Known for cutting-edge designs and taking a modern approach to jewelry-making, Yael Sonia has become synonymous with innovation and sophistication. All pieces are handmade at Sonia’s studio/showroom in Sao Paulo, Brazil and available at the first Yael Sonia art boutique (and the only one in America), located on Madison Avenue. 922 Madison Ave. btw. 73rd & 74th Sts., 212-472-6488; yaelsonia.com

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LUGGAGE & ACCESSORIES Bric’s Madison - The company’s first freestanding store in the U.S., carrying a selection of Bric’s merchandise including luggage, handbags and small accessories, which are currently sold at Barney’s New York, specialty luggage stores, and other luxury department stores. 535 Madison Ave. (54th St.), 212-688-4490; www.brics.it

Shoes Bally - Leather products featuring old-world artistry blended with modern design, including footwear, handbags, executive cases, luggage, and small leather goods. 628 Madison Ave. (59th St.), 212-751-9082; bally.com Jimmy Choo - Favored by movie stars, celebrities, and elegant women in the know, the Jimmy Choo shoe lines include house, evening, bridal, sandals, and more, as well as matching handbags in equally sumptuous leathers and unique stylings. 716 Madison Ave. (63rd-64th Sts.), 212-759-7078; 645 Fifth Ave. (51st St.), 212-593-0800; jimmychoo.com Manolo Blahnik – One of the world’s most influential international footwear designers. 31 W. 54th St., 212-582-3007; manoloblahnik.com Salvatore Ferragamo - Men’s and women’s shoes crafted from superb leathers, from classic business and formal footwear to casual styles with a European flair. 655 Fifth Ave. (52nd-53rd Sts.), 212-759-3822

CHILDREN LOL Kids - A fun, friendly shop in the fashionable Flatiron District catering to NYC’s hippest girls and boys, size 1 month-size 18. The finest European designer brands such as Sonia Rykiel Enfant, Miss Grant, Magil, Monnalisa, and ZaZieZen. 22 W. 21st St. (Fifth-Sixth Aves.), 212-929-6521; lol-kids.com Monnalisa - Since its inception in 1968 in Italy, Monnalisa has become the world leader in the high-fashion children’s wear market. The company distinguishes itself with cutting-edge designs, and collections that feature a wealth of elegant hand-finished details, embellishments, and adornments. Ultra-chic and ultra-feminine, the premier Italian brand brings its sophisticated style to NYC’s glamour girls from size newborn through size 18. 1088 Madison Ave. (81st-82nd Sts.), 212-249-9040; monnalisashopny.com Spring Flowers - The premier shopping destination for the finest European brands of clothing and shoes for girls and boys ages newborn to 12 years. 907 Madison Ave. (72nd-73rd Sts.), 212-717-8182; 538 Madison Ave. (54th-55th Sts.), 212-207-4606; springflowerschildren.com

doctors and Dentists Jan Linhart, D.D.S., P.C. - Cosmetic dentist Dr. Jan Linhart has been listed as one of America’s top dentists by Castle Connolly Consumer Guide and by the Consumers’ Research Council of America. Dr. Linhart has mastered the various modern, pain-free cosmetic dental techniques and procedures that can transform your smile, giving you a renewed sense of self-confidence and well-being. 230 Park Ave. (46th St.), 212-682-5180; drlinhart.com NY Hotel Urgent Medical Services - New York City’s premier 24-hour urgent care center, full-service travel medicine center and house call service. Medical care is provided in the comfort and safety of your hotel room. Dr. Ronald Primas has over 20 years of experience as one of NY’s finest internists. 952 Fifth Ave. (76th St.), Suite 1D, 212-737-1212; travelmd.com

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HAIR SALONS/SPAS John Barrett Salon - For more than a decade, John Barrett has been the mastermind behind some of the world’s most fashionable women, offering hair care from his vibrant penthouse space that offers spectacular views of Central Park and Fifth Avenue. Bergdorf Goodman, 754 Fifth Ave. (57th St.), 9th Floor, 212-872-2700; johnbarrett.com Phyto Universe - The latest innovation from Patrick Alès: a natural beauty oasis featuring hair analysis and treatments by Phyto hair care, facials and body treatments by Lierac Paris skin care, and haute parfumerie by Caron Paris fragrance in a tranquil environment featuring a 3,000-square-foot vertical garden complete with 9,000 live, tropical plants. 715 Lexington Ave. (58th St.), 212-308-0270; phytouniverse.com

Electronics/PHOTO The Apple Store - Your home to all things Apple. And if you need advice, insight, or hands-on technical support, head straight to the accommodating Genius Bar. The Fifth Avenue location is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 767 Fifth Ave. (59th St.), 212-336-1440; 103 Prince St. (Greene St.), 212-226-3126; 1981 Broadway (67th St.), 212-209-3400; 401 W. 14th St., 212-444-3400; apple.com DataVision - NYC’s largest computer and video retailer with 3 levels and 30,000 square feet of savings. They feature a full selection of computers, software, peripherals, digital cameras, camcorders, MP3 players, DVDs, and more. 445 Fifth Ave. (39th St.), 212-689-1111; datavis.com

CIGARS and ACCESSORIES Davidoff of Geneva - One of the most popular cigar and accessories shop in America, with two warm and welcoming top-of-the-line shops in Manhattan, and the most comfortable smokers lounges in the city. Davidoff products—which include lighters, cigar cutters, ashtrays, humidors, cigar cases, and pipes—unite craftsmanship, dedication, and understanding culminating in elegant, innovative, and functional pieces. 535 Madison Ave. (54th St.), 212-751-9060; The Shops at Columbus Circle, 10 Columbus Cir. (59th St.), 212-823-6383; davidoffnewyork.com

Bookstores Argosy Book Store – The city’s oldest purveyor of antiquarian books, autographs, maps, posters, and prints, focusing on the areas of Americana, history of science and medicine, and art. Highlights include a 1685 edition of Shakespeare, the editorial copy of Hemingway’s For Whom the Bell Tolls, and a first edition of Twain’s Innocents Abroad, inscribed by the author. 116 E. 59th St. (Park-Lexington Aves.), 212-753-4455; argosybooks.com/

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Created in 1993 by M.G. Hassan, Imperial Oriental Art is a distinguished name in the field of Chinese ceramics and works of art. Hassan, with 25 years experience, including 10 years at the Oriental Department of Christie’s New York, along with Bibi Mohamed, specialize in fine quality work over a range of various dynasties, especially Ming and Qing. Also offered is an extensive selection of Blue and White, Famille Rose, Famille Verte and the finest quality of Qing monochomes in America. The works of art collection includes Peking glass, Cloisonne, Gold-splashed bronzes and more. 790 Madison Ave. (btw. 66th & 67th Sts.), Third Floor; 212-717-5383; ImperialOrientalArt.com

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Imperial Fine Books – This store welcomes collectors, decorators, architects and browsers to view their selection of fine and decorative leatherbound sets, fine bindings, children’s, illustrated, first editions and rare books. Imperial also does custom bookbinding and appraisals, and offers a color catalogue. 790 Madison Ave. (66th-67th Sts.), 2nd Floor, 212-861-6620; imperialfinebooks.com Shakespeare & Company – One of the city’s top independent bookstores specializing in literature, lit criticism, poetry, drama, philosophy, and travel. 716 Broadway (Washington Pl.), 212-529-1330; 939 Lexington Ave. (69th St.), 212-570-0201; 137 E. 23rd St., 212-505-2021; shakeandco.com The Strand – With 8 miles of shelves and some two-million books, the biggest used-book store in the world. All items are discounted and include bestsellers, review copies, coffee-table books, used hardcovers, remaindered books, and paperbacks. 828 Broadway (12th St.), 212-473-1452; strandbooks.com

8/16/10 5:42:53 PM


day

spas

…Absolute Escapism … Inspired Euphoria By Griffin Miller

Adieu long summer days, beach weekends and definitive tan lines: Autumn has arrived. Yes, we have sinned, seduced by the sun, the sand and pina coladas (mea maxima culpa!). But true bliss – not to mention epidermal salvation – is but a few transcendent spa treatments away.

Remede Spa at The St. Regis New York Three words define a spa experience at The St. Regis New York: luxury, intimacy and customization. On the luxury side there is the spa itself; intimate, exclusive, welcoming: from the relaxation area’s décor (overstuffed velvet club chairs, subdued lighting, simple floral arrangements, floating candles), to flutes of vintage champagne, to the subtle strains of classical music, to the sensually soft throws in the treatment rooms. Intimacy, on the other hand, is a given by virtue of the spa’s size: four upscale treatment rooms (two that accommodate couples), and well-appointed changing areas with steam rooms and amenities. As for customization – this is clearly what gives Remede its reputation. The staff – skilled and wonderfully accommodating – hone in on the uniqueness of their clients’ preferences and physical needs. Such elements of service are further reflected in the treatments offered, from customized facials and massages to such “locale-inspired experiences” as the Big Apple Recoup (facial), Big Apple Recoup Wrap, and Big Apple Recoup Body Polish – all designed to rejuvenate the over-stressed and travel-weary. Of course, should you require an in-suite treatment any time of day, The St. Regis Spa will provide. As senior spa consultant/therapist Danny St. Fleur observes: “It’s not unusual for a guest to arrive after a long flight from a different time zone, so a 1am massage can be a necessity.” St. Regis New York, 2 E. 55th St. (at Fifth Ave.), 212-753-4500; stregisnewyork.com

HaloAir Salt Rooms Nirvana has arrived in America and its name is HaloAir. Unlike traditional spas, this unconventional, totally intriguing concept spa invites its clients to escape from the madding Manhattan crowds into a pristine contemporary version of an Eastern European salt cave replete with sumptuous leather recliner, salt-framed flat-screen TV and whatever personal technotoys you wish to bring along. In this comforting white cocoon, the walls and floors are covered in imported Ukranian salt, while invisible air particles of salt circulate throughout. And while all this may sound a bit sci-fi, I can assure you that curling up for an hour in this mellow sanctuary is far more tranquil and therapeutic than it is otherworldly. According to Israeli-born Ron Rofé, Halo’s president and founder, salt rooms, being both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, are a natural alternative treatment for conditions such as asthma, migraines, allergies and even dermatological problems. With a dedicated following in Israel (where Rofé has eight centers) and Europe, it’s not surprising that Rofé chose New York to introduce salt rooms to the U.S. And so far, the response has been exceptional – and not only for adults. The spa also has a special children’s salt room with kid-sized furniture that’s been getting rave reviews since it opened. 133 W. 22nd St. (bet. 6th and 7th Aves.), 646-666-0554; haloair.com.

High-End Extension Course Courtney Akai, one of Manhattan’s premier eyelash specialists, is a winning mix of outgoing personality and professionalism. Intensely focused, she meticulously applies tiny wisps of hair to my thinning lashes, turning them from scant to lush. Yet clearly she is all about pleasing her clients, whether that means chilled bottled water, a glass of champagne, background music (her own mix tape or your personal iPod preferences), or arranging private manicures, pedicures and/or hand/arm and foot/leg massages during the two-hour session. And, for a premium, she can also bring her eyelash aesthetic – or makeup expertise -- directly to your hotel room or home. By appointment only. 501 Fifth Ave., Suite 1211 (bet. 41st and 42nd Sts.), 212-867-8469; courtneyakai.com

National Spa Week |

Fall 2010: New York City Edition October 11th Through October 17th

Central Park’s brilliant palette of foliage… the start of a new Broadway season… fall fashions to die for… and just when you thought autumn in New York couldn’t get any better, Manhattan’s most exclusive day spas come along to tempt your seasonal sensors with their most sought-after signature treatments for an irresistible price: $50 per full-service experience. The Spa at Trump, Clarins Skin Spa and Great Jones Spa will be among the many high-end spas and salons taking part in the fall version of National Spa Week—a bi-annual indulgence fest (there’s a spring version as well), designed to imbue patrons with a radiant/rested glow, even when you find yourself reveling lavishly in The City that Never Sleeps. For up to the moment information on participating spas, services offered and scheduling appointments, visit spaweek.com.

Insider Tip: Many of the spas signed on for Spa Week extend the special rate beyond a single week – sometimes up to a month – so it’s definitely possible to prolong the pampering.

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THEATRENEW YORK

& screen legends

a dream docket of

Joan Marcus

By Griffin Miller

Joan Marcus

stage

[ Laura Linney, Brian d’Arcy James and Eric Bogosian in Time Stands Still ; Dan Lauria (center) as the iconic title character in Lombardi ]

broadway

* Tony Award Winner

+ Tony Award Nominee

the shows

the stars

the scoop

Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson

Benjamin Walker

After playing the title role Off-Broadway at the Public to rave reviews and three extensions, Walker turned down a role in the X-Men prequel X-Men: First Class to take his rockin’ presidential reign to the Great White Way. FYI: Had Walker opted for the film he would have played Beast, the same role Kelsey Grammer (La Cage aux Folles) played in X-Men: The Last Stand.

Brief Encounter

Joseph Alessi Dorothy Atkinson Annette McLaughlin Tristan Sturrock

The actors behind the Broadway mounting of this breakout Brit hit might not be household names, but those cited proved their mettle to New York audiences in the Noel Coward classic at St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn last winter. FYI: Alessi appeared in the London cast of The Drowsy Chaperone with Bob Martin (Elf) as Aldolpho – the role that earned Danny Burstein (Women on the Verge…) a Tony nomination here in the States.

(Previews 9/20; opens 10/13)

(Previews 9/10; opens 9/28; thru 12/5)

Driving Miss Daisy

*Boyd Gaines *James Earl Jones *Vanessa Redgrave

The cast list says it all both in star wattage and Tony wins (seven). Interestingly, this marks the first Broadway production of Alfred Uhry’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play: It debuted Off-Broadway in 1987 with Morgan Freeman and Dana Ivey. FYI: Both Jones and Redgrave appeared as themselves/interview subjects in Al Pacino’s (Merchant of Venice) seminal docudrama Looking for Richard.

Elf

*Beth Leavel +Mark Jacoby Michael McCormick George Wendt

This new musical based on the hit 2003 Will Ferrell flick boasts a book by Tony winners Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone) and Thomas Meehan (Hairspray, The Producers) and stars former Cheers regular Wendt as Santa as well as the Drowsy Chaperone herself, Leavel. FYI: Jacoby costarred in the original Broadway cast of Ragtime with Brian Stokes Mitchell (Women on the Verge…), while McCormick was in Curtains with David Hyde Pierce and How the Grinch Stole Christmas with Patrick Page (SPIDER-MAN…)

A Free Man of Color

mos (Mos Def) +Reg Rogers Robert Stanton *Jeffrey Wright

Tony-winner John Guare’s racially-charged epic set to debut at the Public was bumped in 2009 (funding issues). Happily, it’s been picked up by Lincoln Center Theatre to usher in the new season. FYI: Robert Stanton appeared Off-Broadway in The Resistable Rise of Arturo Ui with Al Pacino (Merchant of Venice); Jeffrey Wright reunites with George C. Wolfe, former Artistic Director of the Public (will the irony never end?), who directed him in Angels in America, having its first revival Off-Broadway by the Signature Theatre.

La Bete

Joanna Lumley *David Hyde Pierce *Mark Rylance

Absolutely Fabulous’s Joanna Lumley has shed her debauched ways to play a Princess/patron of the arts in this Moliere-esque comedy alongside Hyde Pierce (as a playwright whose name is an anagram of Moliere) and Rylance, who embodies the coarse title character. FYI: Lumley’s role, originally male (Prince Conti), was changed for this production that ran in London before transferring to Broadway. Rylance and Vanessa Redgrave (Driving Miss Daisy) recently completed work on Anonymous, a political thriller, due for release in 2011.

(Previews 10/7; opens 10/25; thru 12/5)

(Previews 11/2; opens 11/14; thru 1/2/11)

(Previews 10/21; opens 11/18)

(Previews 9/23; opens 10/14)

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8/17/10 12:12:48 PM


Joan Marcus

Joan Marcus

the theatregoer’s guide: 2010 fall edition

[ Bernadette Peters and Alexander Hanson in A Little Night Music; the cast of Rain – A Tribute to the Beatles on Broadway ]

the shows

the stars

the scoop

A Life In the Theatre

T.R. Knight Patrick Stewart

You would have thought this David Mamet work from 1977 would have made it to Broadway long before now, but considering the casting of Stewart and Knight – and direction by Neil Pepe (Speed the Plow) – it’s worth the wait. FYI: Both Stewart and Brian Bedford (The Importance of Being Earnest-coming to Broadway in December) played gay characters on Frasier; in 2003, Knight (Grey’s Anatomy) played Brian Bedford’s son on Broadway in Tartuffe.

(Previews 9/23; opens 9/17; thru 1/2)

A Little Night Music

Currently running with two prominent cast additions:

Lombardi

(Previews 9/23; opens 10/21)

*Bernadette Peters *Elaine Stritch

Dan Lauria Judith Light

Stepping into the roles vacated by Catherine Zeta-Jones and Angela Lansbury, Peters as Desiree and Stritch as Madam Armfeldt have upped the ante for this first-rate revival. FYI: The 1996 benefit “Angela Lansbury—A Celebration,” hosted by Nathan Lane (The Addams Family), featured Stritch; both Patti LuPone (Women on the Verge…) and Peters have been celebrated for playing Mama Rose in Gypsy. A theatrical bio centering on Hall of Fame football coach Vince Lomabardi, the cast is headed by two stars known for their TV work: Lauria (The Wonder Years) in the title role; and Light (Who’s the Boss; Ugly Betty; Law & Order: CI) as his wife, Marie. FYI: In 2009, Lauria played Jimmy Hoffa in the off-Broadway production of Good Bobby; Light’s NY stage credits include a striking performance as an intellectual dealing with cancer in Wit.

The Merchant of Venice

*Al Pacino

The theatre gods are smiling on those who couldn’t get past the crowds at Central Park’s Delacorte Theater this summer to see Pacino’s much-lauded performance as Shylock. Still, attention must be paid to the fact that the window for this limited run closes in early January: any dawdling reserving tickets is highly risky. FYI: The last actor to play Shylock on Broadway was Dustin Hoffman in 1989; Pacino and Hoffman appeared together on screen in Dick Tracy in the gloriously cartoonish cameos of Mumbles (Hoffman) and Big Boy Caprice (Pacino).

Mrs. Warren’s Profession

*Cherry Jones Sally Hawkins

Following a two-season term as President Allison Taylor on 24, Cherry Jones has returned to the stage in the latest Roundabout mounting of a Shaw classic [she also had the title role in the company’s 2001 production of Major Barbara]. British actress/Golden Globe-winner Hawkins makes her Broadway debut as Vivie. FYI: Jones and Vanessa Redgrave (Driving Miss Daisy) both appeared in the film Cradle Will Rock.

(Opens 10/19; thru 1/9/11)

(Previews 9/3; opens 10/3 thru 11/21)

The Pee-wee Herman Show (Previews 10/26; opens 11/11; thru 12/5)

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Paul Reubens

After a successful revival in L.A., Reuben’s brings his Pee-wee Herman alter ego, his candycolored Playhouse and his gang of off-kilter sidekicks – Miss Yvonne, Cowboy Curtis, Jambi, Conky, Chairry, etc. – to Broadway. FYI: The magic word is “Wish.” (And don’t forget to scream real loud!!!)

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8/17/10 12:46:10 PM


Paul Kolnik

Kevin Berne

THEATRENEW YORK [ David Anthony Brinkley (middle) and the company in The Scottsboro Boys; A scene from the imaginative new production of the Noel Coward classic, Brief Encounter ]

broadway

* Tony Award Winner

cont’d

the shows

the stars

+ Tony Award Nominee

the scoop

The Pitmen Painters

Original London Cast

Lee Hall, the Tony-winning writer who took theatre audiences by storm with Billy Elliot, is back, this time with a play based on a real-life group of miners who became sensations within the world of art. FYI: The show was a sell-out at London’s National Theatre.

Rain - A Tribute to The Beatles On Broadway

Concert

A multi-media event capturing the Fab Four and their music, from their early days through their psychedelic and hard-rock incarnations, Rain boasts the full range of The Beatle’s discography…along with a historic video footage.

(Previews 9/14; opens 9/30)

(Previews 10/19; opens 10/26; thru 1/2/11)

The Scottsboro Boys

(Previews 10/7; opens 10/31)

*John Cullum

Tony winner Susan Stroman, who blew the socks off Broadway with The Producers alongside Thomas Meehan (Elf), directed and choreographed this Off-Broadway phenom to its new Broadway home. Music by Kander & Ebb. FYI: Cullum was last seen as Beverly Westin in August, Osage County, a role that allowed him to simultaneously star in Heroes at a nearby Off-Broadway theatre.

SPIDER-MAN: Turn Off the Dark

Reeve Carney Jennifer Damiano Patrick Page

The uber-anticipated premiere of this high-profile musical based on four decades of Marvel comic books is finally spinning its Julie Taymor-created web at Broadway’s newly named Foxwoods Theatre (formerly the Hilton). In addition to Taymor’s (The Lion King) inspired vision, the score was written by U2’s Bono and The Edge, promising a visual-musical confluence of major proportions. FYI: Patrick Page, who plays the show’s villainous Green Goblin, must feel right at home – he’s also known to the toddler set for his Yuletide antics as another naughty green guy: the Grinch.

Time Stands Still

Eric Bogosian +Brian d’Arcy James +Laura Linney Christina Ricci

Rarely does a brilliant drama have a long shelf-life on Broadway, let alone reemerge months after a limited run with three-fourths of its original cast. But Donald Margulies’ Time Stands Still is an exception to the rule. The newcomer is Christina Ricci, replacing Alicia Silverstone, who had other commitments. FYI: Ricci appeared with Linney in the acclaimed 2002 Laramie Project film; d’Arcy James, Broadway’s Shrek, also costarred in the far less whimsical Broadway musical, Next to Normal.

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown

*Laura Benanti +Danny Burstein *Patti LuPone *Brian Stokes Mitchell

This new star-studded musical based on the 1988 film of the same name reunites Danny Burstein with his South Pacific director Bartlett Sher. FYI: LuPone, Benanti and Boyd Gaines (Driving Miss Daisy) all won Tonys for the 2008 revival of Gypsy; both Mitchell and Sher are famously linked to August Wilson plays: Mitchell for his Tony-nominated performance as the title character in King Hedley II, and Sher for LCT’s revival of Joe Turner’s Come and Gone – attended by the Obamas on their famous New York “date night” in May, 2009.

(Previews 11/14; opens 12/21)

(Previews 9/23; opens 10/7)

(Previews 10/2; opens 11/4)

off-broadway Angels in America Signature Theatre (previews 9/14; opens 10/28; thru 12/19): First NY revival starring Christian Borle, Zoe Kazan, Zachary Quinto and *Frank Wood

The Break of Noon MCC Theatre (10/28 thru 12/12): New Neil LaBute play starring David Duchovny Divine Sister SoHo Playhouse (previews 9/12; opens 9/22): New comedy written by and starring Charles Busch Me Myself & I Playwrights Horizons (Opens 9/12; thru 10/31): New Edward Albee play starring *Elizabeth Ashley and Brian Murray 44

Through the Night Union Square Theatre (Previews 9/10; opens 9/26): Solo show written by and starring Obie winner Daniel Beaty

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8/16/10 6:34:47 PM


broadway PROFILE

Susan Johann

Eric Bogosian Back on stage in Time Stands Still, the actor, playwright, novelist, monologist, and social observer is a cult hero to those who aspire to all of the above.

By Griffin Miller

“I

Martha Swope

’m a theatre baby – it’s all I care about…it’s the love of my life,” says Eric Bogosian of the obsession that has dominated his creative cosmos since high school. No question that this fixation – combined with a desire to deconstruct literary and performance comfort zones – is responsible for the half-dozen solo shows that put him on New York’s underground radar in the late ’70s/early ’80s, ultimately leading to his breakthrough work, Talk Radio, in 1987. Twenty-three years later the passion – admittedly laced with experience and maturity – remains. It’s what has brought him to Broadway in Donald Margulies’ acclaimed drama Time Stands Still and it’s what fuels his ability to turn out new plays and novels on a regular basis. “The world of a writer is different from the world of the actor,” says Bogosian, who clearly enjoys straddling the parallel universes of actor and author. “As an actor, you get deeply involved in the gist of a character and the emotion of the guy you’re playing; as a writer, you’re more caught up in structure and syntax and the use of words. But this is different,” he explains, calling his involvement in Margulies’ play intriguing on several levels. “Doing Donald’s play means I have heard it more than he has – and I’m more intimately involved. As a writer, that’s an unusual place to be.” Last October he concluded a successful three-year/60-episode stint on Law & Order: Criminal Intent playing the head of the Major Case Squad, Captain Danny Ross – a gig that, like all his TV and Hollywood endeavors, serves to subsidize his writing and stage work. “Law and Order was so damn wonderful and perfect – shooting at Chelsea Piers, living on the Lower West Side,” he says. Still, being killed off at the top of season nine did manage to free up the 57-year-old Massachusetts native to move on to the Margulies project alongside Laura Linney, Brian d’Arcy James and Alicia Silverstone. A limited run, the show closed last March, but thanks to its popularity, is now back on Broadway (in a different theatre – The Cort) with three of the four original cast members (Silverstone was unavailable and her role has been taken over by Christina Ricci). Above: [ Bogosian in Talk Radio ] Right: [ Bogosian in an episode of Law & Order: Criminal Intent ]

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“I think the really exciting thing about this particular play is that it’s a drama about people like us – which is a real accomplishment,” says Bogosian. “I love my role, which is fascinating and I love that the cast, writer and director [Daniel Sullivan] are not only serious, but bring their best game to the play. When I walk in the door each night my pulse quickens.” As for Bogosian’s back-story, he lists his biggest film influences growing up as Dustin Hoffman and Al Pacino. “Ethnic guys with noses got my attention,” he laughs. When it came to theatre, however, he was drawn to “…guys who could take the stage and really knock you out: Frank Langella… John Wood… Philip Bosco.” After graduating from Oberlin in 1976, Bogosian headed to New York where he cut his performance teeth Off-Off Broadway with solo performances like Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll and Pounding Nails in the Floor With Forehead as he basked in the counter-culture glow of downtown Manhattan. During this period he was more than once compared to Lenny Bruce for his intensity and ability to deftly stick it to the jugular. It was 1980 when he met and married Australian graphic designer and director Jo Bonney (currently working with David Duchovny on Neil LaBute’s The Break of Noon at MCC Theatre), and then came Talk Radio, the play that would forever identify him as a writer-performer to be reckoned with. “It all seemed to come together at a very emotional and difficult time for us,” says Bogosian, painting a verbal photograph of himself and Jo living as archetypical starving artists as they dealt with the stress that went into “performing and writing and coming out other side of it.” Since then it’s been an interesting ride of films, theatre, novels, raising two sons and traveling with Jo whenever possible. Still, the incisive social analyst that drove his early work hasn’t left the building. And certainly, he can’t resist a poke or two at the inevitable ironies that catch people in the public eye offguard – himself included. “I get a lot of ‘Where do I know you from,”’ he says, recalling that when he told one guy he was an actor he’d probably seen on TV or in the movies, the comeback was: “No, you work behind the deli counter in my neighborhood.’ So I said ‘yeah.’ After a while you learn.” n

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8/16/10 7:20:30 PM


ON  THE  TOWN

New York

THEATRE AUTHOR! AUTHOR!

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Joan Marcus

On October 18th, Al Pacino returns to Broadway for the first time since 2003 to play Shylock in Daniel Sullivan’s production of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice at the Broadhurst Theatre. Pacino previously played Shylock in the 2004 film version and in the Public Theater’s 2010 Shakespeare in the Park series. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit publictheater.org. Get your tickets now: performances are only scheduled through January 9th.

8/16/10 5:45:45 PM


ON THE TOWN SPOTLIGHT

PERFORMING ARTS p.60

Please call the box offices for showtimes. All listings subject to change BROADWAY The Addams Family - (Musical) Two-time Tony Award winners Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth star as Gomez and Morticia in a musical based on the bizarre and beloved family of characters created by legendary cartoonist Charles Addams. Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 W. 46th St., 212-307-4100; theaddamsfamilymusical.com American Idiot - (Musical) Based on the Grammy Award-winning album of the same name, American Idiot follows working-class characters from the suburbs to the city to the Middle East, as they seek redemption in a world filled with frustration—an exhilarating journey borne along by Green Day’s electrifying songs. St. James Theatre, 246 W. 44th St., 212-239-6200; americanidiotonbroadway.com Billy Elliot: The Musical - (Musical) Set against the backdrop of a struggling English coal-mining town, the show—a celebration of a young boy’s dream to follow his passion for dance despite all odds—is a study in inspirational and entertaining musical theatre. Peter Darling choreographs, Sir Elton John wrote the score, and three young talents alternate in the title role. Imperial Theatre, 249 W. 45th St., 212-239-6200; billyelliotbroadway.com Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson - (Musical) This mix of historical fact and invention uses the story of America’s seventh president—the man who invented the Democratic Party, doubled the size of our nation, and signed the Indian Removal Acts that started the Trail of Tears—to investigate the attraction and terrors of American populism, using a blend of comedy, theatricality and emo rock. Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre, 242 W. 45th St., 212-239-6200; publictheater.org (Previews begin 9/20 for a 10/13 opening) Brief Encounter - (Comedy) This new work combines elements of Noël Coward’s beloved screenplay, and the one-act play on which it was based, with song, dance and Technicolor displays of emotion. Studio 54, 254 W. 54th St., 212-719-1300; roundabouttheatre.org (Previews begin 9/10 for a 9/28 opening; through 12/5) Chicago - (Musical Revival) Kander and Ebb’s long-running “musical vaudeville” follows murderous vixen Roxie Hart, who gains notoriety

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MUSEUMS p.68

from prison and locks horns with prison diva Velma Kelly when they both vie for the attentions of the hottest lawyer in town: Billy Flynn. Ambassador Theatre, 219 W. 49th St., 212-239-6200; chicagothemusical.com Come Fly Away - (Musical) A musical from director/choreographer Twyla Tharp that blends the vocals of Frank Sinatra with a live, 19-piece big band and 15 of the world’s finest dancers. Marquis Theatre, 1535 Broadway (45th St.), 212-307-4100 (Through 9/5) Driving Miss Daisy - (Play) Vanessa Redgrave and James Earl Jones star in a revival of Alfred Uhry’s classic play, a timeless, searing, funny, and ultimately hopeful meditation on race relations in America told through the complex relationship between two of popular culture’s most enduring characters: a widowed, 72-year-old Jewish woman living in midcentury Atlanta and an African American man who serves as her chauffeur. Golden Theatre, 252 W. 45th St., 212-239-6200 (Previews begin 10/7 for a 10/25 opening; thru 12/5) Elf - (Musical) The tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Buddy is raised unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. Based on the film starring Will Ferrell. Al Hirschfeld Theatre, 302 W. 45th St., 212-239-6200 (Previews begin 11/2 for an 11/10 opening; through 1/2) Fela! - (Musical) The critically acclaimed and award-winning musical based on the life of groundbreaking African composer, performer and activist Fela Anikulapo Kuti. A phenomenal company of actors-singers-dancers join world-renowned Antibalas and other members of the NYC Afrobeat community, who perform Kuti’s rousing music live onstage. Eugene O’Neill Theatre, 230 W. 49th St., 212-239-6200; felaonbroadway.com A Free Man of Color - (Play) A freewheeling epic set in 1802 New Orleans in which a new world Don Juan and the wealthiest inhabitant of this sexually charged and racially progressive city thinks all is well in his paradise until history intervenes, setting off a chain of events which no one realizes is about to splinter the world. Vivian Beaumont Theater, 150 W. 65th St., 212-239-6200; lct.org (Previews begin 10/21 for an 11/18 opening) In the Heights - (Musical) 2007’s Tonywinning Best Musical about two days in the life

SIGHTSEEING p.80

of Manhattan’s vibrant and tight-knit neighborhood of Washington Heights. The story follows the hopes and dreams of three generations as they struggle to forge an identity in a neighborhood on the brink of transition. Richard Rodgers Theatre, 226 W. 46th St., 212-307-4100; intheheightsthemusical.com Jersey Boys - (Musical) Based on the life story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, this musical chronicles the rise to superstardom of a group of blue-collar kids from the wrong side of the tracks during the 1960s. Filled with just about every major Four Seasons hit, from “Sherry” and “Rag Doll” to “You’re Just Too Good to Be True.” August Wilson Theatre, 245 W. 52nd St., 212-239-6200; jerseyboysbroadway.com La Bete - (Play) David Hirson’s rollicking 1991 play is a comic tour de force about Elomire (David Hyde Pierce), a high-minded classical dramatist who loves only the theatre, and Valere (Mark Rylance), a low-brow street clown who loves only himself. When the fickle princess (Joanna Lumley) decides she’s grown weary of Elomire’s royal theatre troupe, he and Valere are left fighting for survival as art squares off with ego in a literary showdown for the ages. Music Box Theatre, 239 W. 45th St., 212-239-6200; labetetheplay.com (Previews begin 9/23 for a 10/14 opening) La Cage Aux Folles - (Musical) A delightful tale of an unusual nightclub and the extraordinary characters whose lives and relationships revolve around it, in which a camp man (and his lover) pretend not to be gay just to meet his son’s prospective parents-inlaw. Starring Kelsey Grammer. Longacre Theatre, 220 W. 48th St., 212-239-6200; lacage.com A Life in the Theatre - (Play) Patrick Stewart and T.R. Knight star in the Broadway premiere of David Mamet’s latest. Describing life in the footlights from an actor’s point of view, the show focuses on the relationship between two thespians: Robert, an older, experienced performer; and John, a relative newcomer. Though Robert’s guidance is welcomed by John at first, as the play progresses Robert falters as an actor and mentor, and John emerges as a mature actor. Schoenfeld Theatre, 236 W. 45th St., 212-239-6200 (Previews begin 9/21 for a 10/12 opening; through 1/2) The Lion King - (Musical) The Tony- and Olivier Award-winning stage version of Disney’s celebrated animated feature follows the lion cub Simba as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destined role of king of the jungle. Filled with colorful characters

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THEATRENEWYORK and Grammy-winning numbers by Elton John and Tim Rice. Directed by Julie Taymor. The Minskoff Theatre, 200 W. 45th St., 866-870-2717; disneyonbroadway.com A Little Night Music - (Musical Revival) Bernadette Peters and Elaine Stritch star in the first Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s Tony-winning masterpiece serving up a web of romantic intrigue in a 19th-century Swedish country home. Walter Kerr Theatre, 219 W. 48th St., 212-239-6200; nightmusiconbroadway.com Lombardi - (Play) A new play by Oscar winner and Steppenwolf Theater Company member Eric Simonson—based on the best-selling biography by Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss— that brings the audience into the life and times of one of America’s most inspirational and mercurial personalities, Hall of Fame football coach Vince Lombardi. Starring Dan Lauria and Judith Light. Circle in the Square Theatre, 235 W. 50th St., 212-239-6200; lombardibroadway.com (Previews begin 9/23 for a 10/21 opening) Mamma Mia! - (Musical) Set on a Greek isle, this clever hit musical romance incorporates 22 ABBA songs (“Dancing Queen,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You”) into a story about a single mother and her daughter on the eve of the daughter’s wedding— and three men who could be the bride’s father. Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway (50th St.), 212-563-5544; mamma-mia.com Mary Poppins - (Musical) Based on the P.L. Travers stories and the Oscar-winning film, this fast-paced, heartwarming musical about the world’s most famous nanny boasts numbers from both the original film as well as new songs by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. New Amsterdam Theatre, 214 W. 42nd St., 866-870-2717; disneyonbroadway.com Memphis - (Musical) From the dance halls of Memphis, Tennessee comes this “hot and bothered” Tony-winning musical set in the turbulent south of the 1950s. It tells the story of Huey Calhoun, a white radio DJ whose love of good music transcends race lines and airwaves. Shubert Theatre, 225 W. 44th St., 212-239-6200; memphisthemusical.com The Merchant of Venice - (Play) Al Pacino stars in Shakespeare’s play, directed by Daniel Sullivan, which was part of The Public Theater’s 2010 Shakespeare in the Park repertory season. Broadhurst Theatre, 235 W. 44th St., 212-239-6200; publictheater.org (Opening 10/19; through 1/9) Million Dollar Quartet - (Musical) A musical inspired by the famed 1956 recording session that brought together four of the most legendary figures in the history of rock n’ roll—Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley. Nederlander Theatre, 208 W. 41st St., 212-307-4100; milliondollarquartetlive.com

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Mrs. Warren’s Profession - (Play) Tony Award winner Cherry Jones returns to Broadway in

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George Bernard Shaw’s scorching tour de force that tells the story of a mother who makes a terrible sacrifice for her daughter’s independence. The clash of these two strong-willed but culturally constrained women is the spark that ignites the ironic wit of one of Shaw’s greatest plays. American Airlines Theatre, 227 W. 42nd St., 212-719-1300; roundabouttheatre.org (Previews begin 9/3 for a 10/3 opening; through 11/21)

Rock of Ages - (Musical) This show is a true crowd-pleaser with its high-energy retro score made up of 1980s hits by Journey, Bon Jovi, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Asia and Whitesnake. Set at a Hollywood rock club, the show tracks an aspiring young rocker and a small-town girl chasing her dreams. Brooks Atkinson Theatre, 256 W. 47th St., 212-307-4100; rockofagesmusical.com

Next to Normal - (Musical) This Tony Awardwinning, intimate six-person musical featuring a contemporary rock score, explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family’s world intact. Longacre Theatre, 222 W. 28th St., 212-239-6200; nexttonormal.com

The Scottsboro Boys - (Musical) Kander and Ebb’s musical explores the “Scottsboro” case of the 1930s, when a group of African American teenagers were unjustly accused of attacking two white women—and their attempts to prove their innocence. Lyceum Theatre, 149 W. 45th St., 212-239-6200; scottsboromusical.com (Previews begin 10/7 for a 10/31 opening)

The Phantom of the Opera - (Musical) Gaston Leroux’s famous period thriller now reigns as Broadway’s most legendary grand dame, having broken countless records as it continues to thrill new generations of theatregoers. Majestic Theatre, 247 W. 44th St., 212-239-6200; thephantomoftheopera.com The Pee-wee Herman Show - (Comedy) Based on the TV show that became a cultural phenomenon, The Pee-wee Herman Show reunites Pee-wee (Paul Reubens) with many of the original Playhouse cast of characters for an all-new celebration of sophisticated silliness, subversive humor and childlike wonder. Stephen Sondheim Theatre, 124 W. 43rd St., 212-239-6200 (Previews begin 10/26 for an 11/11 opening; through 12/5) The Pitmen Painters - (Play) Inspired by a book by William Feaver, this new work by Tony winner Lee Hall offers a humorous, moving and timely look at art, class and politics. Set in 1934, the play follows a group of miners who hired a professor to teach art appreciation in an evening class. Within a few years, they were befriended by the most avant-garde artists while their work was acquired by prestigious collections—still, every day they worked, as before, down in the mine. Samuel J. Friedman Theatre, 261 W. 47th St., 212-239-6200; myc-nyc.com (Previews begin 9/14 for a 9/30 opening; through 12/12) Promises, Promises - (Musical) Based on the 1960 Academy Award-winning film The Apartment, the story of the Consolidated Life Insurance Company and Chuck Baxter (Sean Hayes), one of its young employees. In an effort to advance, Chuck lends executives his apartment for their extramarital trysts. But things become complicated when the object of his affection (Kristin Chenoweth) becomes the mistress of one of the executives. Broadway Theatre, 1681 Broadway (53rd St.), 212-239-6200; promisespromisesbroadway.com Rain - A Tribute to The Beatles on Broadway - (Musical) This multimedia concert recaptures the era through all phases of The Beatles’ musical career including Shea Stadium, the psychedelic late 60s, and their long-haired, hard-rocking rooftop days. Neil Simon Theatre, 250 W. 52nd St., 877-250-2929; raintribute.com (Previews begin 10/19 for a 10/26 opening; through 1/2)

Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark - (Musical) Julie Taymor (The Lion King) directs this new take on the mythic tale of Peter Parker, who’s bitten by a radioactive spider and wakes up with supernatural powers. With music and lyrics by Bono and the Edge of U2. Foxwoods Theatre, 213 W. 42nd St., 800-745-3000; spidermanonbroadway.com (Previews begin 11/14 for a 12/21 opening) Time Stands Still - (Play) Donald Margulies’ play returns to Broadway. In it, Sarah and James, a photographer and a journalist (Laura Linney and Brian d’Arcy James) have been together for years and share a passion for documenting the realities of war. But when circumstances compel them to return home to New York and their circle of friends (Eric Bogosian), the adventurous couple confronts the prospect of a more conventional life. Cort Theatre, 138 W. 48th St., 212-239-6200; timestandsstillonbroadway.com (Previews begin 9/23 for a 10/7 opening) West Side Story - (Musical Revival) The landmark musical by Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, and Arthur Laurents transports Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to the turbulent streets of the Upper West Side in 1950s New York City. The star-crossed lovers find themselves caught between the rival street gangs: watch for new bilingual elements. Palace Theatre, 1564 Broadway (47th St.), 212-307-4100; broadwaywestsidestory.com Wicked - (Musical) Set in Oz before the arrival of Dorothy, this knock-out production follows the friendship between two girls—one smart, misunderstood, with green skin; the other beautiful, popular, and ambitious—who grow up to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. Gershwin Theatre, 222 W. 51st St., 212-307-4100; wickedthemusical.com Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown - (Musical) Based on Pedro Almodóvar’s internationally acclaimed 1988 film, this new musical set in late 20th-century Madrid tells the story of the intertwining lives of a group of women whose relationships with men lead to a tumultuous 48 hours of love, confusion and passion. Belasco Theatre, 111 W. 44th St., 212-239-6200; lct.org (Previews begin 10/2 for an 11/4 opening)

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OFF-BROADWAY Angels in America - (Play) Tony Kushner’s Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play is set during the first wave of the AIDS epidemic. Characters include: lawyer Roy Cohn; an African-American male nurse; a Mormon housewife; a prophecy-bearing angel; the ghost of Ethel Rosenberg—all played by a company of eight actors. The play’s two parts perform in repertory (call or visit website for schedule). Signature Theatre Company, 555 W. 42nd St., 212-244-7529; signaturetheatre.org (Previews begin 9/14 for a 10/28 opening; thru 12/19) Avenue Q - (Musical) Singing puppets and their human neighbors make up the residents of Avenue Q, a fictional New York City street where a collection of twenty-somethings struggle to find their way in the world. New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St., 212-239-6200; avenueq.com The Awesome 80s Prom - (Interactive) This comedy invites theatregoers to rediscover their favorite characters from the 1980s as everyone competes for the titles of Prom King and Queen. ’80s fashions strongly encouraged. Village Nightclub, Webster Hall, 125 E. 11th St., 877-RAD-PROM; awesome80sprom.com Black Angels Over Tuskegee - (Play) Layon Gray’s historical drama based on true events. Six men explore their collective struggle with Jim Crow, their intelligence, patriotism, dreams of an inclusive fair society, and brotherhood as they become the first African-American fighter pilots in the U.S. Army Air Forces. St. Luke’s Theatre, 308 W. 46th St., 212-239-6200 Blue Man Group - (Spectacle) Best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows, the trio of post-modern clowns known as Blue Man Group combines music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. Astor Place Theatre, 434 Lafayette St. (so. of Astor Pl.), 212-254-4370; blueman.com Bottom of the World - (Play) Heartbroken over the sudden death of her sister Kate, Abby delves into the world of Kate’s final novel to deal with her grief and somehow move on. As the lines blur between the fictional world and her own reality, Abby attempts to make sense of life and death in Lucy Thurber’s funny and poignant play. Atlantic Stage Two, 330 W. 16th St., 212-279-4200; atlantictheater.org (Previews begin 9/3 for a 9/14 opening; through 10/3) The Break of Noon - (Play) In Neil LaBute’s latest, David Duchovny stars as John Smith, a man who, amidst the chaos and horror of the worst office shooting in American history, sees the face of God. His modern-day revelation creates a maelstrom of disbelief among everyone he knows. A newcomer to faith, John urgently searches for a modern response to the age-old question: at what cost salvation? Lucille Lortel Theatre, 121 Christopher St., 212-279-4200; mcctheater.org (Opens 10/28; through 12/12)

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Celebrity Autobiography: In Their Own Words - (Comedy) Created by Eugene Pack, this brilliant and hilarious concept show features a line-up of revolving performers who interpret the actual words and stories written by the famous and the infamous, in both solo and ensemble pieces. Triad Theatre, 158 W. 72nd St., 212-868-4444; celebrityautobiography.com The Collection & A Kind of Alaska: Two Plays By Harold Pinter - (Play) Two one-acts steeped in Pinter’s signature humor, mystery and psychological tension. In The Collection (1961), a 4am phone call and a surprise visitor set off a series of conversations about potential infidelities among two couples. A middle-aged woman who has been asleep in a hospital room awakens after 30 years and must reorient herself to a greatly changed world in A Kind of Alaska (1982), which was inspired by the work of Oliver Sacks’ Awakenings. Classic Stage Company, 136 E. 13th St., 212-279-4200; atlantictheater.org (Previews begin 11/3 for an 11/21 opening; through 12/21) The Complete Performer - (Comedy) A solo show featuring Emmy-winning writer Ted Greenberg combining stand-up, mind-reading, magic, a half-time show, full-frontal nudity, and a cab ride home. SoHo Playhouse, 15 Vandam St., 212-691-1555; thecompleteperformer.com The Coward - (Play) A cowardly young gentleman named Lucidis initiates a pistol duel then finds that he can’t go through with it. So he hires a common criminal to fight in his place, only to have the scoundrel make a bloody mess of things. As duel follows duel with many shots fired, this coward finds his reputation growing beyond his wildest expectations. The Duke on 42nd Street, 229 W. 42nd St., 646-223-3010; lct3.org (Previews begin 11/8 for an 11/22 opening; through 12/4) Danny and Sylvia: The Danny Kaye Musical - (Musical) This love story follows the duo from the time the young comic Danny Kaminsky meets aspiring songwriter Sylvia Fine at an audition in the 1930s through the romance and conflict that made them such a volatile and successful couple. Featuring many of Danny’s hit songs. St. Luke’s Theatre, 308 W. 46th St., 212-239-6200; dannyandsylvia.com D’Arranged Marriage - (Play) A play about Sanjay Gupta, an aspiring New Zealand Indian stand-up comic who spends his life working at his father’s corner shop and avoiding the issue of an arranged marriage. Triad Theatre, 158 W. 72nd St., 212352-3101; thoseindianguys.com (Through 12/17) The Deep Throat Sex Scandal - (Play) The bizarre journey from the creation of the legendary adult movie starring Linda Lovelace and Harry Reems through the raids, arrests and the banning of the film, to the political fallout of the ensuing courtroom drama. Bleecker Street Theatre, 45 Bleecker St., 212-239-6200; deeptrhroattheplay. com (Previews begin 9/17 for a 10/10 opening)

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The Divine Sister - (Comedy) This outrageous comic homage tells the story of St. Veronica’s

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indomitable Mother Superior (author Charles Busch), who is determined to build a new school for her Pittsburgh convent. Along the way, she has to deal with a young postulant who is experiencing “visions,” sexual hysteria among her nuns, a sensitive schoolboy in need of mentoring, a mysterious nun visiting from the Mother House in Berlin, and a former suitor intent on luring her away from her vows. SoHo Playhouse, 15 Vandam St., 212-691-1555; divinesisteronstage.com (Previews begin 9/11 for a 9/22 opening) Dramatis Personae - (Play) Peruvian playwright Gonzalo Rodriguez Risco delves into the intersecting lives and minds of three authors searching for inspirational triggers amid the trigger-happy environment of Peru’s political coup in the early ’90s. When the writers’ demons emerge, the lines between fiction and reality blur in this dark and wickedly witty play that forever changes what it means to be “based on a true story.” Cherry Lane Studio, 38 Commerce St., 212-239-6200; playwrightsrealm.org (Previews begin 10/1 for a 10/7 opening; through 10/23) Encores! Great American Musicals in Concert: Bells Are Ringing - (Musical) Music by Jule Styne; book and Lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green. A lonely girl who runs an answering service falls for a client she has met only by voice, and typical 1950s mayhem ensues. The score includes a fistful of great tunes from one of Broadway’s greatest tunesmiths. New York City Center, 131 W. 55th St., 212-581-1212; nycitycenter.org (11/18-21) An Error of the Moon - (Play) A fictional portrait of brothers Edwin and John Wilkes Booth, the rock star actors of their day. Edwin tells his tale of a man consumed by jealousy, of bitter sibling rivalry, and the mad obsession that sparked the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Beckett Theatre, 410 W. 42nd St., 212-239-6200; anerrorofthemoon.com The Fantasticks - (Musical) A romantic classic centered on the simple love story of a boy, a girl, two fathers, and a wall. With book and lyrics by Tom Jones and music by Harvey Schmidt. Snapple Theater Center, 1627 Broadway, 212-307-4100; thefantasticks.com Fuerza Bruta: Look Up - (Spectacle) Breaking free from the confines of spoken language and theatrical convention, this new show from the creators of De La Guarda immerses performers and audience in an environment that floods the senses and makes the imagination soar. Daryl Roth Theatre, 20 Union Square E. (15th St.), 212-239-6200; fuerzabruta.net Gazillion Bubble Show - (Spectacle) Fan Yang’s eye-popping production offers parents and kids an unforgettable extravaganza of soap-bubble creations rich in beauty and whimsy and accompanied by fantastic lighting effects, including a jaw-dropping laser show. New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St., 212-239-6200; newworldstages.com ImaginOcean - (Musical) John Tartaglia’s amazing musical for families takes audiences on an underwater journey full of surprises and special effects. New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St., 212-239-6200; newworldstages.com

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In Transit - (Musical) In this fresh take on the modern musical, seven performers take on multiple roles and create every note with their own voices. The show follows an aspiring actress, a fledgling financier, and others as they find their way in NYC. Primary Stages at 59E59 Theaters, 59 E. 59th St., 212-279-4200; primarystages.org (Previews begin 9/21 for a 10/5 opening; through 10/30) The Language Archive - (Play) Julia Cho’s new comedy about a man devoted to the study of language who struggles to find the right words to save his career...and his marriage. Laura Pels Theatre at the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre, 111 W. 46th St., 212-719-3100; roundabouttheatre.org (9/24-10/17) Line - (Play) Israel Horovitz’s classic comedy about five people standing in line has been playing Off-Off Broadway for many years—in fact, it’s inching up on the 35-year mark and has become the longest-running play in Off-Off Broadway history. 13th Street Repertory, 50 W. 13th St., 212-352-0255; 13thstreetrep.org The Little Foxes - (Play) Acclaimed director Ivo van Hovexe’s fresh vision of Lillian Hellman’s iconic play is a study of how women of different races and classes contend with male aggression, power, and domination. Elizabeth Marvel stars. New York Theatre Workshop, 79 E. 4th St., 212-279-4200; nytw.org (Previews begin 9/10 for a 9/20 opening; through 10/31) Love, Loss and What I Wore - (Play) Written by Nora and Delia Ephron, this collection of vignettes and monologues based on the best-selling book by Ilene Beckerman, as well as on the recollections of the Ephrons’ friends, features rotating celebrity cast of five lending their talents to this femalecentric show. Westside Theatre, 407 W. 43rd St., 212-239-6200; lovelossonstage.com Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake - (Dance) Matthew Bourne blends dance, humor and spectacle with extravagant, award-winning set and costume designs by Lez Brotherston and lighting design by Rick Fisher, to create a provocative and powerful Swan Lake for our times. A modernday classic, this production is best known for replacing the traditional female corps de ballet with a menacing male ensemble. New York City Center, 131 W. 55th St., 212-581-1212; nycitycenter.org (10/13-11/7) The Memorandum - (Play) A spiky satire of bureaucracy gone mad. When the managing director of an enormous corporation discovers that all office communications are suddenly being written in a newly invented and indecipherable language, his attempts to get one memo translated lead him through an increasingly ridiculous maze of red tape. Beckett Theatre, 410 W. 42nd St., 212-239-6200; tactnyc.org (Previews begin 10/25 for an 11/4 opening; through 11/27)

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Me, Myself & I - (Play) In the New York premiere of Edward Albee’s new play, Mother

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can’t tell her identical twins apart. But when Otto announces his brother doesn’t exist, the household descends into chaos. Playwrights Horizons, 416 W. 42nd St., 212-279-4200; playwrightshorizons.org (In previews for a 9/12 opening; through 10/31) Middletown - (Play) Pulitzer Prize finalist Will Eno’s moving and funny new play exploring the universe of a small American town. As a friendship develops between a longtime resident and a new arrival Mary Swanson, the lives of the inhabitants of Middletown intersect in strange and compelling ways. Vineyard Theatre, 108 E. 15th St., 212-353-0303 ; vineyardtheatre.org (Opening 10/6) Mistakes Were Made - (Play) Oscar nominee Michael Shannon stars in the NY premiere of Craig Wright’s new comedy. Barrow Street Theatre, 27 Barrow St., 212-868-4444 (Previews begin 11/4 for an 11/14 opening) Murdered by the Mob - (Interactive) Join a private audience with the Don, mingle with mobsters and molls, and meet the new “Boss of Bosses.” It’s the party of the year celebrating the induction of the newest crime boss and everyone’s invited. Amo Dinner Theatre, 141 W. 38th St., 800-MURDER-INC; murdermysteryinc.com Musicals in Mufti Concert Series - (Musical) Script-in-hand concerts with minimal staging. Coco (9/10-12); The Roar of the Greasepaint-The Smell of the Crowd (10/1-3); I Remember Mama (10/8-10); I Love My Wife (10/22-24). York Theatre Company, 619 Lexington Ave., 212-935-5820; yorktheatre.org My Big Gay Italian Wedding - (Comedy) Two handsome grooms, one overbearing Italian mother, a jealous ex-boyfriend, the wedding planner from Hell, and an assortment of kooky family and friends all gather for this new comedy starring Amazing Race winner Reichen Lehmkuhl. St. Luke’s Theater, 308 W. 46th St., 212-239-6200; biggayitalianwedding.com Naked Boys Singing - (Musical) Hunky guys in the altogether performing 16 musical numbers. New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St., 212-239-6200; newworldstages.com Nance O’Neil - (Play) David Foley’s work, imaginatively elaborated from a historical footnote, examines the relationship between actress Nance O’Neil and the infamous Lizzie Borden in 1900s Boston. Were they in love? Or were there other motivations? Access Theater, 380 Broadway, 212-868-4444; accesstheater.com (Previews begin 9/8 for a 9/15 opening; through 10/9) Orlando - (Play) Sarah Ruhl adapts Virginia Woolf’s classic novel in which an Elizabethan man who wakes one day to find he has become a woman. Classic Stage Company, 136 E. 13th St., 212-352-3101; classicstage.org (Previews begin 9/8 for a 9/23 opening; through 10/17)

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Our Town - (Play) Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winner follows the lives of the residents of a New England town. In this staging, the action takes place in, among and around the audience. Barrow Street Theatre, 27 Barrow St., 212-868-4444; ourtownoffbroadway.com (Thru 9/12) Perfect Crime - (Mystery) The long-running hit cat-and-mouse thriller about a wealthy female psychiatrist who has returned to America and a bizarre murder. Snapple Theater Center, 210 W. 50th St., 212-307-4100; perfect-crime.com Prayers for the Ghetto (a dramatic stageplay) - (Play) 1960s-’80s Black life in the ghetto of Brooklyn combines with Jewish life in the ghetto of the Holocaust as three women go on a journey of recovering from what seem to be failed lives until God steps in. Producers Club Grand Theatre, 358 W. 44th St., 212-868-4444; prayersfortheghetto.com (11/21-12/20) Rosmersholm - (Play) Emotionally charged and politically provocative, Ibsen’s haunting work tells of democratic ideals tested by harsh realities, friends turned enemies, and a terrible price yet to be paid. New York City Center Stage II, 131 W. 55th St., 212-581-1212; pearltheatre.org (11/12-12/29) The Screwtape Letters - (Play) A provocative and wickedly funny theatrical adaptation of the C.S. Lewis novel about spiritual warfare from a demon’s point of view. Westside Theatre, 407 W. 43rd St., 212-239-6200; fpatheatre.com The Sneeze - (Play) Michael Frayn’s comic adaptation of Chekhov’s vaudevillian vignettes bounds across town and country with an improbable duel, a mismanaged marriage proposal, and a life-shattering sneeze along the way. New York City Center Stage II, 131 W. 55th St., 212-581-1212; pearltheatre.org (9/17-10/31) Spirit Control - (Play) Adam Wyatt has the perfect family and a perfect record as an air traffic controller. But when the pilot of a small plane suffers a heart attack, Adam must talk a terrified passenger through an emergency landing. New York City Center Stage I, 131 W. 55th St., 212-581-1212; mtc-nyc.org (Previews begin 10/7 for a 10/26 opening) Stomp - (Musical) Springing from Brit clubs and an urban aesthetic, this eight-member theatre of percussion has caused sensation after sensation at each of its international appearances—and what can only be called a big bang in the Big Apple. Orpheum Theatre, 126 Second Ave. (7th St.St. Marks Pl.), 212-307-4100; stomponline.com

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There Are No More Big Secrets - (Play) In Obie Award-winning actress and playwright Heidi Schreck’s work, expat Gabe hasn’t seen Charles and Maxine in years. When he returns to the U.S. with his Russian journalist wife and their daughter, he seeks refuge in the home of his old friends. Rattlestick Playwrights Theatre, 224 Waverly Pl., 212-868-4444; rattlestick.org (Previews begin 11/3 for an 11/11 opening; through 12/11)

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The 39 Steps - (Play) Four actors breathlessly and hilariously reenact all of the characters, locations and famous scenes in Hitchcock’s 1935 film with a few props, theatrical ingenuity, and split-second quick changes. New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St., 212-239-6200; newworldstages.com Through the Night - (Solo show) Obie awardwinner Daniel Beaty performs the story of six interconnected black males ages 10-60—a child scientist, a young man from the projects on his way to college, an ex-convict, a corporate executive, a health food store owner, and the Bishop of a mega church. They all experience an unexpected phenomenon on the same evening that changes their lives forever and challenges them to tackle important issues. Union Square Theatre, 100 E. 17th St., 800-982-2787; danielbeaty.org (Previews begin 9/10 for a 9/26 opening) Tigers Be Still - (Play) Sam Gold (Circle Mirror Transformation) directs this funny and moving world premiere by Kim Rosenstock, which follows the spectacular misadventures of a substitute art teacher who, in the midst of mentoring a troubled teen and dealing with a tiger on the loose, faces her biggest challenge yet: getting her sister off the couch. Roundabout Underground, 111 W. 46th St., 212-719-3100; roundabouttheatre.org (Previews begin 9/10 for a 10/6 opening) Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding - (Interactive) Tony has been marrying Tina since 1988 with family and friends ready to celebrate the occasion with live music, champagne, Italian food and cake. Sweet Caroline’s, 322 W. 45th St., 212-352-3101; tonyandtinanewyork.com underneathmybed - (Play) The world premiere of Florencia Lozano’s play, in which ghosts of a dirty war invade the home of the Jimenez family, while a woman remembers when she disappeared for good. Rattlestick Playwrights Theatre, 224 Waverly Pl., 212-868-4444; rattlestick.org (Previews begin 9/1 for a 9/10 opening; through 10/10) Venus Flytrap - (Play) Done in the snappy-patter style of the Raymond Chandler, the husbandand-wife team of Anthony Dodge and Marcia Milgrom Dodge explore a genre usually reserved for male exploits: film noir. But their detective, Butch Diamond, is a woman who likes women, and whom women like back. WorkShop Theater Company - Main Stage Theater, 312 W. 36th St., 212-352-3101; theactivetheater.org (11/4-14) Viewer Discretion Advised - (Play) A contemporary psychological thriller in which lives are changed by a mysterious visitor. Provoked to the limit by a stranger, how far will nice-guy Norm go for revenge against a woman’s betrayal and an unfair world? Kraine Theater, 85 E. 4th St., 212-352-3101; theactivetheater.org (9/9-10/2) Zero Hour - (Play) The play traces actor Zero Mostel’s days growing up on the Lower East Side through his rise as a stand-up comedian and from the devastation of the blacklist to his greatest Broadway triumphs. DR2 Theatre, 103 E. 15th St., 212-239-6200; zerohourshow.com

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Koichi Miura/Metropolitan Opera

OPERANEW YORK

From left: [ Fabio Luisi; James Levine ]

Levine and Luisi At the Met this season, James Levine, the legendary music director, celebrates 40 years on the podium and Fabio Luisi, the new principal guest conductor, strengthens his ties to New York.

By Martin Bernheimer

A

ll – well, most – eyes are on James Levine as the Metropolitan Opera inaugurates its 126th season on September 27. Following numerous bouts with ill health, culminating in spinal surgery last April and the cancellation of all summer engagements, the masterly music-director is coming back to celebrate some extraordinary milestones. He has led no fewer than 2,412 performances since making his Met debut with Puccini’s Tosca in 1971. That is more than twice the number managed by any other conductor in company history. Under his baton and pervasive influence, the Met orchestra has risen from solid competence to become a virtuoso ensemble with few equals, and no superiors, anywhere. It now plays on concert stages for symphonic dates in addition to its normal duties in the pit. Commemorating his 40th anniversary season at 67, Levine functions as the grand old man of the Met. One should note, however, that 67 is still a ripe young age for a conductor. The company is honoring him with special DVD and CD releases, a documentary film, a tour to Japan, a book and numerous public tributes. Attention certainly is being paid. Levine’s vast repertory spans massive music dramas of Wagner, intimate comedies of Rossini, rarities as well as standard masterpieces of Mozart, decadent challenges by Alban Berg, sensuous and sensational indulgences by Richard Strauss, mythological musings by Berlioz and, of course, hum-along favorites by Verdi and Puccini. His opening-night vehicle is Wagner’s Das

Rheingold, presented in a new high-concept production by the provocative director Robert Lepage, best known for his fanciful wizardry with the Cirque du Soleil. This is the first installment of the Met’s much anticipated modernization of Wagner’s sprawling Ring tetralogy. Die Walküre follows in April, to be joined by Siegfried and Götterdämmerung in the full cycle next season. In addition to the two Wagner operas, Levine’s current assignments are Berg’s shattering Wozzeck, Donizetti’s light-hearted Don Pasquale and Verdi’s not-so-light-hearted Il Trovatore and Simon Boccanegra. Type-casting isn’t exactly his forte. Nor is relaxing. When he isn’t superbusy in New York, he serves as music director of the mighty Boston Symphony. No one knows when he sleeps. So, you may wonder, why did we use that odd qualifier in the opening sentence above, saying most eyes are on Levine as the season opens? The rhetorical question can be answered with two words: Fabio Luisi. He is the 51-year-old Genovese who returns on April 26, 2011 to conduct Verdi’s Rigoletto. Since his Met debut in 2005, Luisi – Italian by birth, German by career orientation, professorial by nature – has made frequent, highly successful appearances on the Met podium. Last spring he proved his versatility by replacing Levine for both the verismo passion of Puccini’s Tosca and the modernist pain of Berg’s Lulu. The latter demonstrated the conduc-

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[ A scene from Act II of Verdi’s Rigoletto. Fabio Luisi will be conducting in April, 2011 ]

tor’s analytical brilliance as well as his theatrical flair. Now Peter Gelb, the Met’s general manager, has strengthened Luisi’s ties to New York by naming him principal guest conductor. No one admits openly that there can be a relationship between Levine’s precarious health and Luisi’s sudden rise to ongoing prominence. Perish the ignoble thought. Asked by Daniel J. Wakin of the New York Times if he could be waiting in the wings to step forward and upward in case of need, the maestro professed innocence: “It is not a thought which crosses my mind.” He claimed he was just “helping this house in order to have a musical profile.” Gelb seconded the fragile motion, to a degree. He insisted that Luisi’s title and new job description have “no direct connection” to Levine’s medical status. The boss just wanted to find a way “to maintain the quality of artistic forces here and to think about the future as well.” Still, when asked if Luisi would be qualified for Levine’s job, Gelb was unequivocal. “Absolutely.” The Met has had only one principal guest conductor before Luisi: the peripatetic workaholic from Northern Ossetia, Valery Gergiev. He held the title from 1998 to 2008, but his role was essentially ceremonial. Importing productions and casts from the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, his home base, he bolstered the Russian repertory. However, he led only two

Ken Howard / Metropolitan Opera

productions a year at Lincoln CenMetropolitan Opera ter, came briefly, went rapidly, and Lincoln Center; 212-362-6000; wielded little impact on day-to-day metoperafamily.org/metopera/ operations. Before his appointment/promotion, Luisi had been contracted for just two productions this season: Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos in May in addition to Rigoletto. Now he speaks of “the great honor to work with the Metropolitan Opera continuously in the coming years.” Future plans, still unofficially defined, include an unspecified Verdi opera, Massenet’s Manon, Verdi’s Aida and Beethoven’s Fidelio. He says he intends to spend three months a year here, and looks forward to advising Gelb on the casting of singers, the choice of directors and assorted musical problems. Until recently, Luisi’s most crucial post tied him to Dresden, where he ran the Saxon State Opera. He resigned abruptly in February, however, when bureaucrats made some artistic decisions without consulting him. Had this not happened, he would not have been available so soon for the Met. Dresden’s loss turned out to be New York’s gain. n Pulitzer Prize-winning critic Martin Bernheimer covers music in New York for the Financial Times and Opera magazine. His last piece in Promenade was on summertime activities at Lincoln Center.

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Costin Radu

DANCENEW YORK [ Dresden Semperoper Ballett ]

a season bursting with short stays And a full-length, but non-traditional Swan Lake, a slew of modern masterpieces, brilliant recent creations and a roster of international treasures.

By Sylviane Gold

[ The Tanztheater Wuppertal in Pina Bausch’s Vollmond ]

Laurent Philippe

[ Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake ]

Basil Childers, Julieta Cervantes and Rob Rich

Bill Cooper

[ Ronald K. Brown’s Dance Company, Evidence ]

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ew York likes to call itself the dance capital of the world, and never is that description more apt than in fall. Theater, music, museums and galleries all come to life this time of year. But for dance lovers, September always arrives with a bang, a rush of activity that brings dance companies from far and wide to perform everything from hip-hop to ballet to butoh. The seventh edition of City Center’s Fall for Dance Festival sets the eclectic, international tone for the season with a tasting menu - at $10 a ticket! - of solos, duets, and full-ensemble pieces from 20 companies (Sept. 28-Oct. 9). Divided into five programs, each to be performed twice, the festival includes big-time ballet troupes (New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet, Miami City Ballet) and renowned modernists (Merce Cunningham Dance Company, Paul Taylor Dance Company) as well as younger choreographers (Madhavi Mudgal, Ronald K. Brown, Emanuel Gat) and less familiar troupes (Germany’s Dresden SemperNY City Center oper Ballett, Brazil’s Companhia Urbana de citycenter.org Dança, Finland’s Tero Saarinen Company). For those who prefer their cutting-edge choreography undiluted by anything - horrors! - classical, Dance Theater Workshop hosts a similar smorgasbord event every fall. This year’s edition, DanceNOW [NYC] Festival Twenty Ten (Sept. 8 - 11), includes 40 new works, none longer than seven minutes. During the regular season, which offers short engagements by leading contemporary choreographers, DTW’s programs run the gamut from the breakdancers of olive Dance Theatre (Sept. 29 - Oct. 2) to Alain Buffard’s Les Inconsolés (“The Inconsolable”), inspired by Goethe’s eerie poem The Erl-King (Oct. 21-23). With pre-performance talks, post-performance wine receptions, and other outreach efforts, DTW is making Dance Theater Workshop it easy to enjoy an art that can too often dancetheaterworkshop.org be seen as intimidating. A full-length, full-bodied alternative to the Fall for Dance and DanceNOW diet of snippets takes over City Center with the arrival of Matthew Bourne’s spectacular, tradition-shattering version of Swan Lake (Oct. 13-Nov. 7). A hit in London, on Broadway, and around the world, Bourne’s production wittily replaces the Tchaikovsky ballet’s fairytale setting with a tabloid-ready royal family, a neurotic prince and a gaggle of powerful, bare-chested male swans in feathered breeches. In British slang, you could call Bourne’s wimpy prince “wet.” But wet is a literal description of the dancers in Pina Bausch’s Vollmond (“Full Moon”), another full-length import from Europe. Bausch, the groundbreaking and hugely influential German choreographer, always provided a unique environment for her pieces, and this one covers the stage with a shallow pool of water replenished by a mini-Niagara Falls. The Tanztheater Wuppertal virtuosos cavort in the spray, climb the onstage boulder, and swim to and fro illuminated by, needless to say, a full moon. The company, a regular visitor to the Brooklyn Academy of Music’s annual Next Wave Festival, returns this time without Bausch, who died last year (Sept. 29-Oct. 9). The Next Wave continues with Ralph Lemon’s meditation on his relationship with 102-year-old Walter Carter, a sharecropper, carpenter, and gardener in rural Mississippi, in How Can You Stay in the House All Day and Not Go Anywhere? It melds live performance, film and visual art into a multi-layered stage event that Lemon describes as “bodies honed by years of contemporary

dance training and bodies honed by decades of physical labor” (Oct. 13-16). Two more visitors from Europe round Brooklyn Academy of Music out the fall offerings at BAM: Ballet Prelbam.org jocaj presents Angelin Preljocaj’s Empty moves (parts I & II), John Cage’s Empty Words (Oct. 27-30), and Sasha Waltz and Guests perform her Gezeiten to live cello music by Jonathan Bepler and Johann Sebastian Bach. The Joyce Theater doesn’t call its fall season a festival, but it might just as well. From Israel comes Batsheva Dance Company, with new work from its inventive artistic director, Ohad Naharin (Sept. 21-Oct. 3); from Japan comes Sankai Juku, the preeminent butoh company, with the latest from Ushio Amagatsu (Oct. 5-17); Belgium is sending les Joyce Theater Ballets C de la B, with a tribute to Bausch called Out joyce.org of Context - For Pina (Oct. 19-24). As the travelers strut their David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center stuff, local companies will be lincolncenter.org busy as well. At Lincoln Center’s Koch Theater, New York City Ballet is adding four weeks of repertory (Sept. 14-Oct. 10) to its usual autumn roster of Nutcracker performances (beginning Nov. 26). In addition to jewels from its treasury of unsurpassed modern masterpieces by George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins, NYCB will also be performing some of the more recent creations of Christopher Wheeldon, Mauro Bigonzetti, and Alexei Ratmansky. Peter Martins, the ballet-master-inchief, is reviving his comic ballet, The Magic Flute, to music of Riccardo Drigo. And Benjamin Millepied will unveil his newest dance, to a commissioned score by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer David Lang. Meanwhile, New York’s other ballet fixture, American Ballet Theatre, has abandoned its usual fall season of repertory in favor of a winter fling with The Nutcracker. But those willing to attend a one-night-only benefit can still see the company: new works from four ABT dancers - soloist Craig Salstein and corps members Gemma Bond, Nicola Curry and Daniel Mantei - will be given their world premieres as part of a gala fundraiser at Jazz at Lincoln Center (Oct. 12). There’s no shortage of offerings for modern dance fans, either. Former Graham dancer Kazuko Hirabayashi shows new work to music of Philip Glass, Igor Stravinsky and Michael Gordon at Ailey Citigroup Theater the Ailey Citigroup Theatre (Oct. 8-10). And ailey.org Trisha Brown, who made dance history in the 1970s, is celebrating her company’s 40th anniversary by going back to the future. Works like Falling Duet I, Walking on the Wall, and Man Walking Down the Side of a Building, which helped touch off the post-modern dance revolution, return, some for the first time, when the Trisha Brown Dance Company performs at the Whitney Museum of American Art (Sept. 30-Oct.3). And these are just the highlights of a season bursting Whitney Museum with goodies for the dance lover - and for anyone whitney.org ready to become one. n Sylviane Gold has written about the arts for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Newsday and Dance Magazine. Her last piece for Promenade was on the New York City Ballet.

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New York

PERFORMING ARTS CULTURAL CENTERS

WHITE HEAT October 28th sees the introduction of a new annual celebration courtesy of Lincoln Center: the White Light Festival. Intended to highlight “music’s unique emotional power to evoke the transcendent in us,” it presents 10 U.S. and New York premieres and debuts by artists and companies from 15 countries. The festival closes on Nov. 17th & 18th with the U.S. premiere of Roysten Abel’s The Manganiyar Seduction (pictured above), a combination of folk and classical Indian music. For tickets and more info, visit lincolncenter.org or call 212-875-5000.

Please call the box offices for showtimes. All listings subject to change.

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Beacon Theatre – Sonny Rollins (9/10); ZZ Top (9/12-13); Jackson Browne (9/14-15); Trey Songz (9/16-17); The Ultimate Doo-Wop Show 2010 (9/25); Lady Antebellum (9/28); Night of Too Many Stars - An Overbooked Concert for Autism Education presented by Comedy Central, hosted by Jon Stewart (10/2); The Hold Steady (10/7); Cheech & Chong (10/23); America’s Got Talent Live (10/27); Guster (10/29); Daniel Tosh (10/30); Pink Martini (11/13); Church Girl (11/16-21); Straight No Chaser (11/30). 2124 Broadway (74th-75th Sts.), 212-465-6225; beacontheatrenyc.com

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Brooklyn Academy of Music – Dance: Vollmond (Full Moon) (9/29-10/9); How Can You Stay in the House All Day and Not Go Anywhere? (10/13-16); Empty moves (parts I & II) (10/27, 29); Gezeiten (11/3, 5-6). Music: Delusion (9/21-10/3); Brooklyn Omnibus (10/20-23); Persephone (10/26-30). Opera: A House in Bali (10/14-16). 30 Lafayette Ave., 718-636-4100; bam.org Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts – Night of Awakening - 5th Annual Avinu Malkeinu Event (9/13); Tom Chapin (10/3); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (10/17); Klezmer Conservatory Orchestra (10/24); Cirque Le Masque (10/31); The Tito Puente Jr. Orchestra (11/6); Brooklyn Gospel Celebration (11/7); Tommy Tune (11/14); Philadanco (11/20). Brooklyn College, Campus Road & Hillel Pl., Brooklyn, 718-951-4500; brooklyncenter.com

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ONTHETOWN

Carnegie Hall – Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra (9/29-30, 10/2-3); Ensemble ACJW (10/12); The Philadelphia Orchestra (10/12); The English Concert (10/13); Cyro Baptista (6/23); CareFusion Jazz Festival New York: Herbie Hancock (10/13); Arcanto Quartet (10/15); American Composers Orchestra (10/15); The New York Pops with Rajaton (10/15); Hugh Masekela (10/16); Mariinsky Orchestra (10/17, 20-22, 24); Regina Carter (10/20); The Parker Quartet (10/22); Indigo Girls (10/23); András Schiff (10/26); Mark Padmore (10/27); Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott (10/27); Orchestra of St. Luke’s (10/28); L’Arpeggiata (10/29); Standard Time with Michael Feinstein (10/29); Evan Ziporyn (10/30); Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (10/30); The MET Chamber Ensemble (10/31); Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain (11/2); Brentano String Quartet (11/3); Brad Mehldau (11/9); Ensemble ACJW (11/10); Chris Potter (11/10); Angelique Kidjo (11/11); Nicholas Phan with pianist Myra Huang (11/12); New York Philharmonic and Midori (11/12); Ghazal (11/12); Too Hot to Handel: The Gospel Messiah with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (11/13-14); The Books (11/13); David Fray (11/16); Bryn Terfel with Malcolm Martineau (11/17); Murray Perahia (11/18); Miami String Quartet (11/19); The New York Pops - Stephen Sondheim 80th Birthday Celebration (11/19); Pinchas Zukerman and Yefim Bronfman (11/20). 57th St. & Seventh Ave., 212-247-7800; carnegiehall.org Dance Theater Workshop – The DanceNOW [NYC] Festival (9/8-11); Raimund Hoghe with Faustin Linyekula (9/16-18); Faye Driscoll (9/2225); olive Dance Theatre (9/29-10/2); SITI Company (10/5-16); Alain Buffard (10/21-23); Dance by Neil Greenberg (11/9-13). 219 W. 19th St., 212-924-0077; dancetheaterworkshop.org

Dicapo Opera Theatre – The Seagull (9/23-26); La Bohème (10/15, 17, 21, 23). 184 E. 76th St., 212-288-9438; dicapo.com The Joyce Theater – Jérôme Bel (9/18-19); Batsheva Dance Company (9/21-10/3); Sankai Juku (10/5-17); les Ballets C de la B (10/19-24); Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet (10/26-11/7); Garth Fagan Dance (11/9-14); Complexions Contemporary Ballet (11/16-28); Ballet Hispanico (11/30-12/12). 175 Eighth Ave. (19th St.), 212-242-0800; joyce.org Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts – Great Performers: Henning Kraggerud, violin (10/17); Škampa Quartet (10/31); Dresden Staatskapelle (10/31-11/1); Collegium Vocale Gent Choir (11/2); Garrick Ohlsson, piano (11/10); Kremerata Baltica (11/11); What Makes It Great? with Rob Kapilow (11/22). White Light Festival (10/28-11/18): Brahms’ German Requiem (10/31); Splendor Rising (11/2); Sutra (11/2-4); Judith (11/3, 5-6); Tallis Scholars (11/7); Silent Prayer (11/11); Late-Night Elegies: The Messenger (11/11); Officium Novum (11/12); Late-Night Elegies: Baltic Dreams (11/12); Bach and Arvo Pärt (11/13); Late-Night Elegies: Impromptus (11/13); The Organ Master: J.S. Bach (11/16); The Manganiyar Seduction (11/17-18). David Rubenstein Atrium Target® Free Thursdays (Broadway bet. 62nd & 63rd Sts.; lincolncenter. org/atrium): The Film Society of Lincoln Center (9/9); Juan Pablo Villa (9/23); Canta Libre (9/30); Roy Nathanson’s Sotto Voce: Subway Moon (10/7); Metropolitan Klezmer (10/14); Fish Police (11/4); Sabor Brazil (11/11); Hot Club San Francisco (11/18). Columbus Ave. btw. 62nd & 65th Sts., 212-875-5000; lincolncenter.org

Madison Square Garden – Ivete Sangalo (9/4); Marc Anthony (9/10); Shakira (9/21); Alice in Chains (9/24); Roger Waters: The Wall Live (10/5-6); Vicente Fernandez (10/16); Phoenix (10/20). 4 Pennsylvania Plaza (Seventh Ave. & 32nd St.), 212-465-5800; thegarden.com Merkin Concert Hall – Si-Hon Ma Memorial Concert (9/12); Ensemble 212 Duologues: Beethoven & Fairouz (9/18); Broadway Close Up Special Event: Ridiculously Talented! (9/20); American Composers Forum: Piano Innovation (9/25); Concertante (9/27); Broadway Close Up Special Event: Fire and Rain - The Songs of James Taylor (10/4); New York Philharmonic Ensembles (10/10); Tuesday Matinees: Benjamin Moser, piano (10/12); Young Concert Artists: Caroline Goulding, violin (10/12); New York Festival of Song: Beginner’s Luck (10/19, 21); Broadway Close Up: Off-Broadway Close Up (10/25); Heartbeats of the World: An Evening with Steve Ross (10/27); Tuesday Matinees: Afiara String Quartet (11/2); Broadway Close Up: All the Things You Are - Jerome Kern (11/15); Concertante (11/16); American Classical Orchestra (11/17); The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Presents: Meet the Music! (11/21); The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Presents: Meet the Music! (11/21); Cristina Fontanelli’s “Christmas in Italy” (11/28); New York Festival of Song: Manning the Canon (11/30). 129 W. 67th St., 212-501-3303; kaufman-center.org The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Strings of the Black Sea (9/19); Judy Collins in Dendur (9/21); Dee Dee Bridgewater (9/24); Till Fellner, piano (10/15); First Person: Seeing America (10/16); Christine Ebersole (10/22); Pacifica Quartet (10/23); Musicians from Marlboro (10/29); David Kadouch, piano (10/30); Alessio

Mark Bussell

The David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center Located on the same site that introduced Charlie Chaplin to American audiences and featured vaudeville acts such as the dance team of Fred and Adele Astaire, the David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center (Broadway bet. 62nd & 63rd Sts.) officially opened to the public last December, and has since become a lively Upper West Side hub, home to an array of programs, services, and amenities. In addition to serving as a community gathering place and starting point for guided tours of the Lincoln Center campus, the Atrium offers free performances every Thursday night at 8:30pm with Target® Free Thursdays, Chef Tom Colicchio’s ’wichcraft café, a staffed information desk, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi access. And for the first time in Lincoln Center’s 50-year history, a one-stop box office location offers same-day discount tickets to Lincoln Center performances Tuesday through Sunday at noon. (Monday tickets are sold on Sundays.) The atrium is open Mon.-Fri., 8am-10 pm and Sat.-Sun., 9am-10pm. For more information, visit LincolnCenter.org/Atrium. See our Lincoln Center listing for a schedule of Target® Free Thursday events.

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performing artsNEWYORK

Bax, piano (11/5); Patti Smith (11/6); Mariachi Los Camperos (11/12); Montero & Capuçon (11/13); Bayanihan Philippine Dance (11/19); CONTACT! (11/20); Chanticleer: Christmas (11/30). Fifth Ave. & 82nd St., 212-570-3949; metmuseum.org Metropolitan Opera Company – Les Contes d’Hoffmann (9/28, 10/2, 6, 9, 12, 16, 19); Das Rheingold (9/27, 30, 10/4, 9); Rigoletto (9/29, 10/2, 5, 8, 14); Boris Godunov (10/11, 15, 18, 23, 25, 30); La Bohème (10/16, 20, 23, 28, 11/1, 5); Il Trovatore (10/26, 30, 11/3, 6, 11, 15, 19); Don Pasquale (10/29, 11/2, 6, 10, 13, 18); Carmen (11/4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 27, 30); Così fan tutte (11/9, 13, 17, 20, 23, 27); Don Carlo (11/22, 26, 29). 212-362-6000; metoperafamily.org Miller Theater at Columbia University – Music by Samuel Barber (9/13-15); Opening Night: Kaija Saariaho’s Maa (9/22, 24-25); Vijay Iyer & Craig Taborn (10/9); Matthias Pintscher (10/21); FFEAR (10/23); Fred Lerdahl (11/19). 2960 Broadway (116th St.), 212-854-1633; millertheatre.com The Morgan Library’s Gilder Lehrman Hall – Orchestra of St. Luke’s Nothing Sacred: Bolcom & Beethoven (10/20, 22); New-Trad Octet (10/30); Boston Early Music Festival - Music for Viol Consort by Henry Purcell and William Lawes (11/10); George London Foundation Recital Series (11/14); Wolfgang Holzmair (11/30). 225 Madison Ave. (36th St.), 212-685-0008; themorgan.org

AS THE CROW FLIES Summer saw the release of Sheryl Crow’s seventh album, 100 Miles from Memphis, and on September 26th you can see the nine-time Grammy winner performing at Radio City Music Hall. Hailed as a return to her musical roots, Crow’s latest songs evoke the likes of Al Green and Stevie Wonder, while featuring unusually open and direct lyrics from the Missouri native. For tickets, call 212-307-7171 or visit radiocity.com.

New York City Opera – A Quiet Place (10/27-11/21); Intermezzo (10/31-11/20). David H. Koch Theater, Columbus Ave. & 63rd St., 212-870-5570; nycopera.com New York Philharmonic – Opening Night (9/22); Perlman Performs Mendelssohn (9/23-25, 28); Alan Gilbert Conducts Mahler’s Sixth Symphony (9/29-10/1); Joshua Bell Performs Sibelius (10/6); Joshua Bell, Debussy, Sibelius, and Lindberg (10/7-8, 12); Zukerman, Webern, and Brahms (10/14-16); Mendelssohn’s Elijah (11/10-11, 13); Anne-Sophie Mutter, Lynn Harrell, and Yuri Bashmet Play Beethoven (11/14); Anne-Sophie Mutter Plays Mozart and Wolfgang Rihm (11/18-20, 23); Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto and Stravinsky’s Firebird (11/26-27); Saturday Matinee: Mozart, Haydn, and Tchaikovsky (11/27); Haydn, Debussy, and The Firebird (11/30). Avery Fisher Hall, Broadway & W. 65th St., 212-875-5656; nyphil.org

Tina Tahir / DG

NY City Center – Fall for Dance Festival (9/28-10/9); Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake (10/13-11/7); 25th Anniversary Silver Jubilee - A Star-Studded Retrospective (11/8). 130 W. 56th St., 877-581-1212; nycitycenter.org

simply strings Violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter, celebrating 35 years with Deutsche Grammophon and Artist-in Residence of the New York Philharmonic, performs chamber music on November 14th and the world premiere of Wolfgang Rihm’s Lichtes Spiel alongside Mozart violin concertos on November 18th, 19th, 20th, and 23rd at Avery Fisher Hall (Broadway & 65th St.). For tickets, call 212-875-5656 or visit nyphil.org.

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92nd Street Y – Music: Music and the Brain—Music and the Mind: From Neurons to Nirvana (10/6); The Lyricist’s Voice: Rosanne Cash (10/7); Takács Quartet & Jeffrey Kahane, piano (10/16); Paquito D’Rivera Quintet (10/23); The Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio / Michael Tree, viola / Anthony McGill, clarinet (10/27); The Kalichstein-Laredo-Robinson Trio / Michael Tree, viola / Anthony McGill, clarinet (10/28); Tokyo String Quartet & Juho Pohjonen, piano (10/30); Family Music, Ages 3-6—Bash the Trash’s Spooky Celebration (10/31); Scottish Chamber Orchestra & Piotr Anderszewski, piano/conductor (10/31); Music and the Brain—Music, Inspiration and Creativity: Does Practice Make Perfect? (11/3); Leon Fleisher, piano (11/13); Charles Rosen on Chopin’s Last Year (11/14); Sérgio & Odair Assad, guitars (11/18); Charles Rosen, piano & Fred Sherry, cello (11/20); Family Music, Ages 3-6—Bash the Trash Celebrates Feasts with Friends (11/21). Dance: Sundays at Three: Satoshi Haga (10/17); Walking Talking (11/4). Lexington Ave. & 92nd St., 212-415-5500; 92y.org Radio City Music Hall – Vampire Weekend (9/15-17); Porcupine Tree (9/24); The Fab Faux (9/25); Sheryl Crow (9/26); Drake (9/28-29); The Gaslight Anthem (9/30); Celtic Thunder (10/1); Yo Gabba Gabba! Live (10/2-3); So You Think You Can Dance (10/7); The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (10/8-9); The Avett Brothers (10/13); Radio City Christmas Spectacular (11/5-12/30). 1260 Sixth Ave. (50th St.), 212-307-7171; radiocity.com

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ONTHETOWN

Regina Opera Company – Tosca (11/20-21, 27-28). 12th Ave. & 65th St., Brooklyn, 718-232-3555; reginaopera.org St. Bartholomew’s Church – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart- Missa Brevis in F Major (“The Little Credo”), K. 192 (9/5); Jean Gilles- Requiem (Messe des Morts)- A 9/11 Memorial Service (9/12); Choristers Sunday: Haydn - Missa Sancti Nicolai (9/19). Park Ave. & 51st St., 212-378-0248; stbarts.org

Buena Vista Social Club” (11/9); Live from the Heart of Europe (11/10); John McLaughlin and the 4th Dimension (11/13); Ani DiFranco with special guest Ane Brun (11/19-20); Pimpinela (11/21). 123 W. 43rd St. (Broadway-Sixth Ave.), 212-997-1003; the-townhall-nyc.org

The Theater at Madison Square Garden – Madea’s Big Happy Family (10/15-17); Machete Music Tour 2010 (10/22); Wintuk From Cirque du Soleil (11/17-1/2). 4 Pennsylvania Plaza (Seventh Ave. & 32nd St.), 212-465-5800; thegarden.com

Symphony Space – New York Choral Society Summer Sings (9/1); Piazzolla’s Tangos: Brunetti, Walevska, Darvarova (9/10); Philip Smith: Principal Trumpet, NY Philharmonic (9/10); Free Concert Presenting Very Young Composers (9/11); Christine Walevska: Goddess of the Cello (9/11); Pianist Ludmil Angelov Performs Chopin (9/12); Metropolitan Opera Musicians Greg & Patricia Zuber (9/12); Pianist Pascal Roge Plays French Music (9/13); Sassmannshaus Piano Trio (New York Debut) (9/14); Pascal Roge & Friends (9/14); Shai Wosner, Piano & Hyunah Yu, Soprano (9/15); New York Piano Quartet Performs Austrian Composers (9/15); Elmira Darvarova, Violin and Scott Dunn, Piano (9/16); NY Philharmonic Principals with Shai Wosner, Piano (9/16); Between Classical and New, Variations on a Theme (9/20); The New York Baroque Dance Company (9/21-22); Celebrating Generations of Change (9/24); Harlem Opera Theater - 2010 Vocal Competition (9/25); Second Annual World of Colors (9/25); The Story Pirates (10/2); Heart to Heart Concert (10/2); Flamenco Vivo presents Bailaor / Bailaora (10/7-9); Randy Kaplan (10/9); Arriba! (10/15); Secret Agent 23 Skidoo (10/16); Trance Music & Dance Of Southern Iran (10/16); Circurious (10/23); Classics Declassified: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (10/24); Bombay Bellywood (10/26); Farmer Jason (11/6); All-American (11/10); David Amram: The First 80 Years! (11/11); Nerac featuring Elisabeth A., French Songwriters (11/12); National Dance Institute’s The Celebration Team (11/13); Premiere Works XIX (11/13); The Gustafer Yellowgold Show (11/20); The Mannes Orchestra (11/23). 2537 Broadway (95th St.), 212-864-5400; symphonyspace.org The Town Hall – A Special Evening with Andre Agassi (9/2); An Acoustic Evening with Airborne Toxic Event featuring The Calder Quartet (9/11); Aziz Ansari: Dangerously Delicious Tour (9/16); Demetri Martin (9/24-25); A Special Show for Families with They Might Be Giants (9/26); Songs of the Persian Mystics: Mohammad-Reza Lotfi & Shayda Ensemble (10/1); Laurie Berkner (10/3); Queen of Afro-Peruvian Song: Eva Ayllon (10/8); Broadway Melody Makers (10/15); Betty Buckley (10/16); Broadway Originals! (10/17); Buika (10/22); The Richard Thompson Band (10/23); Masters of Indian Music: Zakir Hussain & Niladri Kumar (10/29); Buddy Valastro: The Cake Boss in The Bakin’ with the Boss Tour (11/3); AfroCubism “The original idea for the

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©2010 The Pollock-Krasner Foundation / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

©2010 The Barnett Newman Foundation, New York / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

ARTNEW YORK

living large at MoMA For the first time in more than 40 years, some 300 works from the Abstract Expressionist movement that shook the art world with both their size and their artistic aims are being displayed together.

T

hese days, it’s all about “small”: Tech gadgets are tinier and tinier, information comes in ever-briefer sound bites or tweets. But with “Abstract Expressionist New York,” the survey exhibition that runs at the Museum of Modern Art from Oct. 3 through April 25, the museum has headed in the other direction, with a vengeance. Reinstalling its entire fourth floor, which usually houses half its galleries for paintings and sculpture, and further taking over galleries of drawings and prints on two other floors, MoMA is devoting more than 25,000 square feet of space to some 300 works—paintings, sculpture, drawings, prints, even photographs –30 artists who were part of the startling new movement that made New York City the center of the art world in the 1950s .

By Karin Lipson

The space is justified not only by the large dimensions of the works— Jackson Pollock’s One: Number 31, from 1950, is nearly 9 by 17 1/2 feet—but also by the outsize aims of their creators, says Ann Temkin, MoMA’s chief curator of painting and sculpture and the organizer of the exhibition. “It wasn’t just that they were trying to make something to look at,” Temkin says of these artistic pioneers. “They were trying to make something that would hit you like a truck. Maybe it was a sublime truck, but it was something that was going to overwhelm your body and your mind and your spirit.” The “sublime trucks” parked at MoMA, all from the museum’s own huge holdings (nearly 1,000 works that could be labeled Abstract Expressionist, according to Temkin), include pieces by Pollock, of course, and Willem de Koon-

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Opposite page from left: [ Barnett Newman’s Onement, I (1948); J ackson Pollock’s Untitled (ca. 1943-44) ] This page:

©2010 Sam Francis Foundation, California / Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY

[ Sam Francis’s Big Red (1953) ]

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©2010 Helen Frankenthaler / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

©1998 Kate Rothko Prizel & Christopher Rothko / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

66 ©2010 The Arshile Gorky Foundation / The Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

©Dedalus Foundation, Inc./Licensed by VAGA, New York, NY

©2010 The Willem de Kooning Foundation / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

Clockwise from top left: [ Willem de Kooning’s Woman, I (1950–52);

Robert Motherwell’s Pancho Villa, Dead and Alive (1943);

Arshile Gorky’s Agony (1947);

Helen Frankenthaler’s Great Meadows (1951);

Mark Rothko’s No. 10 (1950) ]

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ARTNEW YORK


©Dedalus Foundation, Inc./Licensed by VAGA, New York, NY

living large at MoMA

[ Lee Krasner’s Gaea (1966) ]

ing, Mark Rothko, Robert Motherwell, Barnett Newman, Arshile Gorky, Lee Krasner, David Smith, and Joan Mitchell, to name just some of the more celebrated members of that loose-knit brother- (and sometimes sister-) hood. Surprisingly, perhaps, this is the first time in more than 40 years that these works are being displayed together at the museum in a comprehensive exhibition: The last such show was in 1969, which means that it will be a new experience for at least a couple of generations of MoMA-goers. “Isn’t that incredible?” Temkin says of the time gap. “I think it became something that people so took for granted, and thought they knew everything there was to know.” For this 21st-century look, the museum has selected works that reflect the diversity of the Abstract Expressionism, but which generally share at least two attributes: an all-over composition that moves the eye throughout the work, and the sheer size of many pieces—so American, so filled with post-World War II bravado. “The first two rooms will still be those European-scale paintings,” Temkin said in an interview over the summer, as the show was still being organized, “and then it will be like—boom!” Roughly chronological, “Abstract Expressionist New York” traces the development of the movement, and of individual artists, some of whom earn special rooms where visitors can study their work in depth. In general, the curator says, the flow of the show is not intended to elicit an “‘oh yeah, that’s a great Pollock. Oh yeah, that’s a great Rothko.’ We’re plunging you into their own efforts and their own struggles.” Some lesser-known compatriots of the big-name artists are also being shown, to sink or swim alongside them. These include William Baziotes,

Theodoros Stamos, and Bradley Walker Tomlin; the last, Temlin says, “died in 1953, tragically early, so the career didn’t have a chance to develop. MoMA owns three paintings of his—at least two will be up. They are really strong— and in the proximity of people like Pollock.” If the show is about a revolutionary breakthrough of the past, MoMA is also going to some effort to connect the exhibition to the present. The museum is “doing an iPad app for the show,” Temlin says. She pronounces herself “curious” and “open-minded” about the museum’s first iPad app, noting that, in any case, “there MoMA is no substitute” to seeing these works in the flesh: “It’s 11 West 53rd Street; 212-708-9400; moma.org (Closed Tuesdays) not really about the image— it’s about the physical and psychological experience that you have with this thing that in many cases is bigger than you are.” Adding to that experience will be tours led by young working artists, whose commentaries are unscripted, the curator says. “I’m curious about what they think about the impact of these paintings,” Temlin Savills. “Does it have relevance to what they’re doing? What do they see in it that interests them?” No question that they’ll find something, Temlin says, “because all great art is new all over again, for every time.” n Karin Lipson, a former arts writer and editor for Newsday, is a frequent contributor to The New York Times. Her last article in Promenade was on the city’s smaller museums.

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The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of Georgia O’Keeffe, through the generosity of The Georgia O’Keeffe Foundation and Jennifer and Joseph Duke, 1997 (1997.61.19)

The MET’S PHOTOGRAPHIC TREASURES

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At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Stieglitz, Steichen, Strand exhibit features the seminal works of three groundbreaking American photographers with approximately 100 photographs drawn from the Met’s own collection. (Pictured here is Alfred Stieglitz’s Georgia O’Keeffe, from 1921.) The exhibition runs Nov. 10th through April 10th. Closed Mon. Fifth Ave. & 82nd St., 212-535-7710; metmuseum.org

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New York

museums All exhibits are subject to change American Folk Art Museum – Approaching Abstraction (through 9/5); Women Only: Folk Art by Female Hands (through 9/12); Up Close: Henry Darger and the Coloring Book (through 9/19); Quilts: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum (10/5-10/16/2011). Closed Mon. $12; students/seniors, $8; 12 & under, free. 45 W. 53rd St., 212-265-1040; folkartmuseum.org American Museum of Natural History – Lizards & Snakes: Alive! (through 9/2); Highway of an Empire: The Great Inca Road (through 9/30); Race to the End of the Earth (through 1/2). Open daily. $16; seniors/students, $12; children 2-12, $9. Central Park West at 79th St., 212-769-5100; amnh.org Asia Society and Museum – Yoshitomo Nara: Nobody’s Fool (9/9-1/2). Closed Mon. $10; seniors, $7; students, $5. 725 Park Ave. (70th St.), 212-288-6400; asiasociety.org Bronx Museum of the Arts – Yankee Stadiums (through 12/31); Lobby-for-the-Time-Being - A Project by Acconci Studio (through 1/2); Urban Archives: Happy Together - Asian & Asian-American Art from the Collection (through 1/2). Closed Mon.-Wed. $5; students/seniors, $3; 12 & under, free; free on Fri. 1040 Grand Concourse (165th St.), 718-681-6000; bronxmuseum.org Brooklyn Museum – Andy Warhol: The Last Decade (through 9/12); Kiki Smith: Sojourn (through 9/12); Healing the Wounds of War: The Brooklyn Sanitary Fair of 1864 (through 10/17); Work of Art: The Winner (through 10/17); Fred Tomaselli (10/8-1/2); Seductive Subversion: Women Pop Artists, 1958-1968 (10/15-1/9); Sam Taylor-Wood: “Ghosts” (10/30-8/14); Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera (11/19-4/10); Body Parts: Ancient Egyptian Fragments and Amulets (through 10/2/11). Closed Mon. & Tues. $10; seniors/students, $6; under 12, free. 200 Eastern Parkway (Washington Ave.), 718-638-5000; brooklynmuseum.org Center for Architecture – Our Cities Ourselves: The Future of Transportation in Urban Life (through 9/11); New Practices New York 2010 (through 10/23). Closed Sun. Free. 536 LaGuardia Pl. (Bleecker-W. 3rd Sts.), 212-683-0023; aiany.org Chelsea Art Museum – Closed Sun. & Mon. $8; students/seniors, $4; under 16, free. 556 W. 22nd St., 212-255-0719; chelseaartmuseum.org

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China Institute – Woodcuts in Modern China, 1937-2008: Towards a Universal Pictorial Language (9/16-12/5). Open daily. $7; students/seniors, $4; under 12, free. 125 E. 65th St., 212-744-8181; chinainstitute.org Cooper-Hewitt, National De­sign Museum – Ted Muehling Selects: Lobmeyr Glass from the Permanent Collection (through 1/2); National Design Triennial: Why Design Now? (through 1/9). Open daily. $15; seniors/students, $10; under 12, free. 2 E. 91st St., 212-849-8400; cooperhewitt.org The Drawing Center – Gerhard Richter - Lines which do not exist (9/11-11/18); Claudia Wieser - Poems of the Right Angle (9/11-11/18). Closed Mon. & Tues. 35 Wooster St. (Grand-Broome Sts.), 212-219-2166; drawingcenter.org El Museo del Barrio – Nueva York (9/17-1/9). Closed Mon. & Tues. $6; seniors/students, $4; under 12, free. 1230 Fifth Ave. (104th St.), 212-831-7272; elmuseo.org Fraunces Tavern Museum – Revolution and the City (through 1/31). Closed Sun. $10; seniors/ children, $5; under 6, free. 54 Pearl St. (Broad St.), 212-425-1778; frauncestavernmuseum.org The Frick Collection – The Spanish Manner: Drawings from Ribera to Goya (10/5-1/9); The King at War: Velázquez’s Portrait of Philip IV (10/26-1/23). Closed Mon. $18; seniors, $12; students, $5; pay-what-you-wish Sun., 11am-1pm. 1 E. 70th St., 212-288-0700; frick.org Grey Art Gallery at NYU – Künstlerplakate: Artists’ Posters from East Germany, 1967-1990 (9/7-12/4). Closed Sun. & Mon. $3. 100 Washington Square East, 212-998-6780; nyu.edu/greyart The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum – Julie Mehretu: Grey Area (through 10/6); Broken Forms: European Modernism from the Guggenheim Collection (through 1/5); Chaos and Classicism: Art in France, Italy, and Germany 1918–1936 (10/1-1/9); Intervals: Ryan Gander (10/1-1/9). Closed Thurs. $18; seniors/students, $15; under 12, free. 1071 Fifth Ave. (89th St.), 212-423-3500; guggenheim.org Hispanic Society of America – Arts and cultures of Spain, Portugal, and Latin America. Closed Mon. Free. Audubon Terrace (Broadway btw. 155th & 156th Sts.), 212-926-2234; hispanicsociety.org International Center of Photography – For All the World to See: Visual Culture and the Struggle for Civil Rights (through 9/12); Perspectives 2010: Carol

Bove, Lena Herzog, Matthew Porter, Ed Templeton, Hong-An Truong (through 9/12). Closed Mon. $12; students/seniors, $8; under 12, free. 1133 Sixth Ave. (43rd St.), 212-857-0000; icp.org Japan Society – The Sound of One Hand: Paintings and Calligraphy by Zen Master Hakuin (10/1-1/16). Closed Mon. $12; students/seniors, $8; under 16, free; free Fri., 6-9pm. 333 E. 47th St., 212-832-1155; japansociety.org The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Tutankhamun’s Funeral (through 9/6); An Italian Journey: Drawings from the Tobey Collection, Correggio to Tiepolo (through 9/19); Epic India: Scenes from the Ramayana (through 10/3); Drawings and Prints: Selections from the Permanent Collection (through 10/3); Hipsters, Hustlers, and Handball Players: Leon Levinstein’s New York Photographs, 1950–1980 (through 10/17) Doug + Mike Starn on the Roof: Big Bambú (through 10/31); Vienna Circa 1780: An Imperial Silver Service Rediscovered (through 11/7); Celebration: The Birthday in Chinese Art (through 11/28); The World of Khubilai Khan: Chinese Art in the Yuan Dynasty (9/28-1/2); John Baldessari: Pure Beauty (10/20-1/9); Man, Myth, and Sensual Pleasures: Jan Gossart’s Renaissance (10/6-1/17); Sounding the Pacific: Musical Instruments of Oceania (through 1/23); The Artistic Furniture of Charles Rohlfs (10/19-1/23); Between Here and There: Dislocation and Displacement in Contemporary Photography (through 2/13); Katrin Sigurdardottir at the Met (10/19-3/6); The Roman Mosaic from Lod, Israel (9/28-4/3); Stieglitz, Steichen, Strand (11/10-4/10). Closed Mon. $20; seniors, $15; students, $10; under 12, free. Fifth Ave. & 82nd St., 212-535-7710; metmuseum.org The Morgan Library & Museum – Written in Stone: Historic Inscriptions from the Ancient Near East, ca. 2500 B.C.-550 B.C. (through 9/5); Defining Beauty: Albrecht Dürer at the Morgan (through 9/12); Mark di Suvero at the Morgan (through 9/12); Anne Morgan’s War: Rebuilding Devastated France, 1917-1924 (9/3-11/21); Mark Twain: A Skeptic’s Progress (9/17-1/2); Roy Lichtenstein: The Black-and-White Drawings, 1961-1968 (9/24-1/2); Degas: Drawings and Sketchbooks (9/24-1/23). Closed Mon. $12; seniors/ students/children under 16, $8. 225 Madison Ave. (36th St.), 212-685-0008; themorgan.org Museum of American Finance – Scandal!: Financial Crime, Chicanery and Corruption that Rocked America (through 4/29). Closed Sun. & Mon. $8; students/seniors, $5; under 6, free. 48 Wall St. (William St.), 212-908-4110; moaf.org

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MuseumsNEWYORK

The Museum of Modern Art, New York, James Thrall Soby Bequest, 1979

CHAOS & ORDER

Museum of Arts & Design – Intertwined: Contemporary Baskets from the Sara and David Lieberman Collection (through 9/12); Portable Treasuries: Silver Jewelry from the Nadler Collection (through 9/26); California Dreamers: Ceramic Artists from the MAD Collection (through 10/10); Abraaj Capital Art Prize 2010 (through 10/10); Dead or Alive: Nature Becomes Art (through 10/24); Think Again: New Latin American Jewelry (10/12-1/9); The Global Africa Project (11/16-5/16). Closed Mon. $15; students/seniors, $12; under 12, free; Thurs., 6–9pm, pay-what-you-wish. 2 Columbus Cir. (near Eighth Ave. & W. 58th St.), 212-956-3535; madmuseum.org The Museum of Biblical Art – Ukrainian Icons (through 9/12); The Stranger - A Biblical Reading of Enrique Martinez Celaya (9/30-1/14). Closed Mon. & Tues. $7; seniors/students, $4; under 12, free. 1865 Broadway (61st St.), 212-408-1500; mobia.org Museum of the City of New York – America’s Mayor: John V. Lindsay and the Reinvention of New York (through 10/3); Samurai in New York: The First Japanese Delegation, 1860 (through 11/7); Glorious Sky: Herbert Katzman’s New York (11/5-2/6). Closed Mon. $10; seniors/students, $6; under 12, free. Fifth Ave. & 103rd St., 212-534-1672; mcny.org Museum of Comic & Cartoon Art – Closed Mon. $5; 12 & under, free. 594 Broadway (Prince-Houston Sts.), Ste. 401, 212-254-3511; moccany.org Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the Holocaust – The Morgenthaus: A Legacy of Service (through 12/30); Project Mah Jongg (through 12/30); Fire in My Heart: The Story of Hannah Senesh (opening 10/13). Closed Sat. $12 (free Wed. 4-8pm); seniors, $10; students, $7; 12 & under, free. 36 Battery Pl., 646-437-4200; mjhnyc.org

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Museum of Modern Art – Contemporary Art from the Collection (through 9/12); Matisse: Radical Invention, 1913–1917 (through 10/11); The Original Copy: Photography of Sculpture, 1839 to Today (through 11/1); Experimental Women in Flux (through 11/1); New Photography 2010 (9/29-1/10); Underground Gallery: London Transport Posters 1920s-1940s (through

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In the years immediately following the first World War, European art moved away from the avant-garde schools of Cubism, Futurism and Expressionism and toward a new form of “classicism,” rejecting the pre-war aesthetic of “innovation at all costs.” Chaos and Classicism: Art in France, Italy, and Germany, 1918–1936, a new exhibition opening Oct. 1st at the Guggenheim, highlights the most important artist of the time—Pablo Picasso—while simultaneously introducing European artists (such as Balthus, whose The Street is pictured here) to the masses through mixed media, sculpture, decorative arts, fashion photography, and films. Covering the period of time between the armistice and the 1936 Berlin Olympics, the exhibition presents works concerned with “the idealization of the human form,” says Kenneth E. Silver, guest curator and Professor of Modern Art at NYU. The show is organized by theme rather than country, showcasing that “there are more similarities between the three countries rather than vast differences,” according to Silver, and that while “the look of classicism is rather common between the countries, the use is drastically different.” Closed Thurs. 1071 Fifth Ave. (89th St.), 212-423-3500; guggenheim.org - Sarah Wormser

1/11); Projects 93: Dinh Q. Lê (through 1/24); On Line: Drawing Through the Twentieth Century (11/21-2/7); Counter Space: Design and the Modern Kitchen (9/15-3/14); Pictures by Women: A History of Modern Photography (through 3/21); The Big Picture: Abstract Expressionist New York (10/3-4/25); Contemporary Art from the Collection (through 5/9). Closed Tues. $20; seniors, $16; students, $12; 16 & under, free. 11 W. 53rd St., 212-708-9400; moma.org Museum of the Moving Image – Pays homage to the art, history, and technology of film and television, educating the public on its influence in our culture and society. Tues.-Sat., 10am-3pm. $7. 35th Ave. & 36th St., Astoria, Queens, 718-784-0077; movingimage.us Museum of Sex – Sex Lives of Robots (ongoing); Action: Sex and the Moving Image (ongoing); Rubbers: The Life, History & Struggle of the Condom (ongoing); Sex Lives of Animals (ongoing). Open daily. $16.75; students/seniors, $15.25. 233 Fifth Ave. (27th St.), 212-689-6337; museumofsex.com National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian Institution – HIDE: Skin as Material and Metaphor (Part II) (9/14-1/16); Beauty Surrounds Us (through 3/31/11); A Song for the Horse Nation (through 7/7/11); Infinity of Nations: Art and History in the Collections of the National Museum of the American Indian (opening 10/23). Open daily. Free. U.S. Custom House, 1 Bowling Green (Broadway), 212-514-3700; americanindian.si.edu Neue Galerie – Franz Xaver Messerschmidt: From Neoclassicism to Expressionism, 1736-1783 (9/16-1/10); Postcards of the Wiener Werkstätte: Selections from the Leonard A. Lauder Collection (10/7-1/17). Closed Tues. & Wed. $15; students/ seniors, $10. 1048 Fifth Ave. (86th St.), 212-628-6200; neuegalerie.org New Museum of Contemporary Art – Rivane Neuenschwander: A Day Like Any Other (through 9/19); Amy Granat: Light 3 Ways (through 9/19); Museum as Hub: The Bidoun Library Project (through 9/26); Brion Gysin: Dream Machine (through 10/3); Ugo Rondinone: Hell Yes! (through 12/1). Closed Mon. & Tues. $12; seniors, $10; students, $8; 18 & under, free. 235 Bowery (Prince St.), 212-219-1222; newmuseum.org

8/16/10 5:56:39 PM


ONTHETOWN

NYC’s Femmes Fatales The noteworthy women who embodied the glamour of the 20th century and New York City with unforgettable style will be featured in Notorious and Notable, a new exhibition running September 14th through January 3rd at the Museum of the City of New York. Co-presented with the National Jewelry Institute, the exhibition is organized by color with a special area for the jewels, and spotlights 80 of New York City’s famous femmes, presenting visitors with the opportunity to “experience the voice of the individual through choice of garment or accessory,” says Phyllis Magidson, the museum’s Curator of Costumes and Textiles. Pieces range from a Gypsy Rose Lee striped costume equipped with snaps down the back (for her stripteases, at left), to stunning, signature jewelry pieces brought in from private collections, such as Fannie Hurst’s emerald calla lily bracelet. Each of the runway-worthy women featured will have biographical information accompanied by related press coverage that reflects the “notorious and notable” aspects of their lives. The stories include the multiple marriages of Mrs. Harris Williams, a.k.a. Mona, and the downfall of Imogene “Bubbles” Wilson, aka Mary Nolan, a Ziegfeld girl with a scandalous life who eventually died a penniless heroin addict. The show highlights the performers, literary figures, politicians, philanthropists, and socialites who were famous for their exciting lives, some of whom fell into obscurity—women such as Clara Rockmore, a beautiful, exotic performer of the ’30s and ’40s. The roles of women were evolving in those years and the clothing is demonstrative of the changes. Closed Mondays. Fifth Ave. & 103rd St., 212-534-1672; mcny.org. – Sarah Wormser

New York City Fire Museum – One of the nation’s most important collections of fire-related art and artifacts from the late 18th century to the present. Closed Mon. $5; seniors/students, $2; under 12, $1. 278 Spring St. (Varick-Hudson Sts.), 212-691-1303; nycfiremuseum.org New York City Police Museum – Artist as Witness: The 9/11 Responders (opening 9/7). Closed Sun. $7; seniors/students, $5; under 6, free. 100 Old Slip (Water-South Sts.), 212-480-3100; nycpolicemuseum.org The New-York Historical Society – Grateful Dead: Now Playing at the New-York Historical Society (through 9/5); Nueva York (1613-1945) (9/17-1/9); Breakthrough: The Dramatic Story of the Discovery of Insulin (10/5-1/31). Closed Mon. $12; seniors, $9; students, $7; under 12, free. 170 Central Park West (77th St.), 212-873-3400; nyhistory.org New York Public Library (Humanities and Social Sciences Library) – Call 212-869-8089 for a recorded announcement of all current exhibitions. Open daily. 42nd St. & Fifth Ave., 212-340-0830; nypl.org New York Transit Museum – The Triborough Bridge: Robert Moses and the Automobile Age (through 12/31). Closed Mon. $5; seniors/children 3-17, $3. The New York Transit Museum Gallery Annex in Grand Central Terminal presents changing exhibitions. Boerum Pl. & Schermerhorn St., Brooklyn, 718-694-1600; mta.info/museum The Noguchi Museum – Noguchi ReINstalled (through 10/24); California Scenario: The Courage of Imagination (through 10/24); On Becoming An Artist: Isamu Noguchi and his Contemporaries, 1922-1960 (11/17-4/24). Closed Mon. & Tues. $10 (pay-what-you-wish first Fri. of the month); students/seniors, $5; under 12, free. 9-01 33rd Rd. (Vernon Blvd.), Long Island City, Queens, 718-204-7088; noguchi.org The Paley Center for Media – A center for the cultural, creative, and social significance of television and radio. Closed Mon. & Tues. $10; seniors/students, $8; under 14, $5. 25 W. 52nd St., 212-621-6600; paleycenter.org

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The Queens Museum of Art – Working Stiffs: Photography from the Collection (through 10/3); The Curse of Bigness (through 10/3); waterLINE: Porto Alegre New York, 2010 by Claudia Vieira (through 10/3). Closed Mon. & Tues. $5; seniors/children, $2.50; under 5, free. NYC Bldg. in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, 718-592-9700; queensmuseum.org The Rubin Museum of Art – Bardo: Tibetan Art of the Afterlife (through 9/6); Tradition Transformed (through 10/18); Embodying the Holy (10/6-3/7); From the Land of the Gods (through 3/8); Grain of Emptiness (11/5-4/11); The Nepalese Legacy in Tibetan Painting (through 5/23); Gateway to Himalayan Art (through 1/1/12). Closed Tues. $10 (free Fri., 6-10pm); seniors/students/artists with ID, $7; under 12, free. 150 W. 17th St., 212-620-5000; rmanyc.org Scandinavia House: The Nordic Center in America – Headquarters of The American-Scandinavian Foundation. Closed Sun. & Mon. Free. 58 Park Ave. (37th-38th Sts.), 212-879-9779; scandinaviahouse.org The Skyscraper Museum – The Rise of Wall Street (through 10/31). Closed Mon. & Tues. $5; seniors/students, $2.50. 39 Battery Pl., 212-968-1961; skyscraper.org The Studio Museum in Harlem – Zwelethu Mthethwa - Inner Views (through 10/24); Usable Pasts: 2009-10 Artists in Residence: Mequitta Ahuja, Lauren Kelley, and Valerie Piraino (through 10/24); Inside the Collection: Interiors from the Studio Museum (through 10/24); Hi-Res: Expanding the Walls (through 10/24). Closed Mon.-Wed. $7; seniors/students, $3; under 12, free. 144 W. 125th St. (Lenox Ave.-Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd.), 212-864-4500; studiomuseum.org Whitney Museum of American Art – Christian Marclay: Festival (through 9/26); Off the Wall: Part 2 - Seven Works by Trisha Brown (9/30-10/3); Heat Waves in a Swamp: The Paintings of Charles Burchfield (through 10/17); Collecting Biennials (through 11/28). Closed Mon. & Tues. $18 (pay-what-youwish Fri., 6-9pm); seniors/students, $12; 18 & under, free. 945 Madison Ave. (75th St.), 800-WHITNEY; whitney.org

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Photo: Jon Furlong

MAY DAY POWER Presented by Goldman Properties and Deitch Projects, the May Day mural by Shepard Fairey—the street artist responsible for the iconic Barack Obama “Hope” poster—is on view outdoors through Dec. 31st on Houston Street and Bowery, a tribute to the Pop artists who have influenced him.

New York

art galleries All exhibits subject to change

Agora Gallery - American and international contemporary art. Portal: Paul Cote (through 9/7); Bloom: Tamar Rosen (10/5-26); Red: LEGO Sculpture by Nathan Sawaya (11/23-12/14). Tues.-Sat., 11am-6pm. 530 W. 25th St., 212-226-4151; agora-gallery.com Artists Space - One of the first alternative spaces in New York, founded in 1972 to support contemporary artists working in the visual arts. Danh Vo Autoerotic Asphyxiation (9/15-11/7). Tues.-Sat., noon-6pm. 38 Greene St., 3rd Floor, 212-226-3970; artistsspace.org Bonni Benrubi - 20th-century and contemporary photography. Summer Place (through 9/25); Abelardo Morell: Groundwork (10/7-12/18). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 41 E. 57th St., 13th Floor, 212-888-6007; bonnibenrubi.com

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Peter Blum Gallery - Contemporary American and European art. Wooster St.: Matthew Day Jackson: The Tomb (9/17-11/13). 29th St.: Matthew Day Jackson: In Search of (9/16-11/13). 99 Wooster St., 212-343-0441; 526 W. 29th St., 212-244-6055; peterblumgallery.com

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Campton Gallery - Contemporary international and American art. Igor & Marina (9/1-9/30); TR Colletta (9/1-9/30); Ilya Zomb (9/1-9/30); Regina Saura (10/1-10/31); Greg Miller (11/1-11/30). 451 West Broadway, 212-387-0208; camptongallery.com Cheim & Read - International contemporary artists. Adam Fuss: Home and the World (9/9-10/23). Tues.-Thurs., 10am-6pm; Fri., 10am-4pm. 547 W. 25th St., 212-242-7727; cheimread.com James Cohan Gallery - Contemporary art. Ingrid Calame - Swing Shift (9/10-10/9); Roxy Paine - New Work (10/16-12/11). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 533 W. 26th St., 212-714-9500; jamescohan.com Heidi Cho Gallery - Contemporary art from mid-career/emerging artists. Sophia Petrides (9/16-10/9). Tues.-Fri., 11am-6pm; Sat., 11am-5pm. 522 W. 23rd St., 212-255-6783; heidichogallery.com CUE Art Foundation - Exhibitions featuring under-recognized artists. That is Then. This is Now. Group Exhibition (9/9-10/30). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 511 W. 25th St., 212-206-3583; cueartfoundation.org DCKT - Cordy Ryman (9/9-10/31). Tues.-Fri., 11am-6pm; Sat., noon-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm. 195 Bowery, 212-741-9955; dcktcontemporary.com

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ONTHETOWN

Deitch Projects - Shepard Fairey May Day Mural (through 12/31). Tues.-Sat., noon-6pm. 76 Grand St., 212-343-7300; 18 Wooster St.; deitch.com

Susan Inglett Gallery - Emerging artists and historical exhibitions. Eric Fertman (9/10-10/16). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 522 W. 24th St., 212-647-9111; inglettgallery.com

David Findlay Jr. Inc. - American 19th- and 20th-century paintings and sculpture. Jon Schueler The Castelli Years: 1955-1959 (10/6-10/28). Mon.-Sat., 10am-5:30pm. 41 E. 57th St., 212-486-7660; davidfindlayjr.com

Paul Kasmin Gallery - Contemporary and modern art. David Lachapelle - American Jesus (through 9/18); Deborah Kass - More Feel Good Paintings for Feel Bad Times (9/23-10/30). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 293 Tenth Ave. (27th St.); 511 27th St., 212-563-4474; paulkasmingallery.com

Zach Feuer Gallery - Contemporary art in all media by emerging and mid-career artists. Anton Henning (Sept.-Oct.). Tues.- Sat., 10am-6pm. 530 W. 24th St., 212-989-7700; zachfuer.com Gagosian Gallery - Modern and contemporary art, including works by de Kooning, Hirst, Picasso, Twombly, and Warhol. Madison Ave.: Gregory Crewdson - Sanctuary (9/23-10/30). Tues.- Sat., 10am-6pm. 980 Madison Ave. (76th-77th Sts.), 212-744-2313; 555 W. 24th St., 212-741-1111; 522 W. 21st St., 212-741-1717; gagosian.com Galerie Lelong - Contemporary art from the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Angelo Filomeno (9/10-10/23). 528 W. 26th St., 212-315-0470; galerielelong.com

Knoedler & Company - Contemporary and sculpture works. Lynn Davis (9/16-10/30). Tues.-Fri., 9:30am-5:30pm., Sat., 10am-5:30pm. 19 E. 70th St., 212-794-0550; knoedlergallery.com L & M Arts - Paintings, drawings, and sculptures by first-generation Abstract Expressionists. Damien Hirst - The Medicine Cabinets (10/28-12/11). Tues.-Sat., 10am-5:30pm. 45 E. 78th St., 212-861-0020; lmgallery.com Lehmann Maupin Gallery - International contemporary painting, sculpture, photography, video, and new media. 26th St.: Jennifer Steinkamp (9/10-10/23); Erwin Wurm

Gallery Henoch - Contemporary American, European, and Asian painting and sculpture. Mel Leipzig - Artists, Architects, & Others (9/16-10/9); Steve Mills - Paintings (10/14-11/6); Max Ferguson - Urban Intimacy (11/11-12/4). Tues.-Sat., 10:30am-6pm. 555 W. 25th St., 917-305-0003; galleryhenoch.com

Greenberg Van Doren - Contemporary fine art. Kanishka Raja - Against Integration (9/9-10/23). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 730 Fifth Ave. (57th St.), 212-445-0444; gvdgallery.com Stephen Haller Gallery - Contemporary paintings. Johnnie Winona Ross (9/9-10/16). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 542 W. 26th St., 212-741-7777; stephenhallergallery.com Hauser & Wirth - Emerging and established contemporary artists. Anj Smith Geometry of Bliss (9/7-10/2). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 32 E. 69th St., 212-794-4970; hauserwirth.com Hasted Hunt Kraeutler - Contemporary photography from emerging and established artists. Jeff Bark - Lucifer Falls (9/9-10/16); Albert Watson Retrospective (10/21-12/4). Tues.-Sat., 11am-6pm. 537 W. 24th St., 212-627-0006; hastedhunt.com

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Marlborough Gallery - Important contemporary masters. 57th St.: Threading Orbs : Recent Tapestries and Works on Paper by Thierry W Despont (9/23-10/23). 25th St.: Chihuly 2010 (9/16-10/16). Mon.-Fri., 10am-5:30pm. 40 W. 57th St., 212-541-4900; 545 W. 25th St., 212-463-8634; marlboroughgallery.com The Pace Gallery - 20th-century art, including works by Calder, Close, LeWitt, Nevelson, Noguchi, Picasso, Rauschenberg, Rothko, Tuttle, and many others. 22nd St.: 50 Years at Pace (9/17-10/23). 32 E. 57th St., 212-421-3292; 534 W. 25th St., 212-929-7000; 545 W. 22nd St., 212-989-4258; thepacegallery.com Yancy Richardson Gallery - 20th century and contemporary photographs. Laura Letinsky After All (9/16-10/30). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 535 W. 22nd St., 646-230-9610; yanceyrichardson.com Perry Rubenstein Gallery - Solo exhibitions by international artists. Plus One: Curated by Dan Cameron (9/10-18); FAILE (opening 11/4). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 527 W. 23rd St., 212-627-8000; perryrubenstein.com Spanierman Modern - Modern and contemporary paintings, watercolors, works on paper, drawings, and sculpture. Frank Bowling: Paintings 1974–2010 (9/14-10/16); Charlotte Park (9/1411/27). Mon.-Sat., 9:30am-5:30pm. 53 E. 58th St., 212-832-1400; spaniermanmodern.com

Gladstone Gallery - Contemporary art. 24th St.: Cecilia Edefalk - Weeping Birch (9/17-10/23). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 515 W. 24th St., 212-206-9300; 530 W. 21st St.; gladstonegallery.com James Graham & Sons - 19th- & 20th-century American paintings, American & European sculpture. Consider the Oyster (9/23-10/30). 32 E. 67th St., 212-535-5767; jamesgrahamandsons.com

(10/28-12/4). Chrystie St.: Yul, Yul Brynner: A Photographic Journey (9/12-9/25). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 540 W. 26th St., 212-255-2923; 201 Chrystie St., 212-254-0054; lehmannmaupin.com

For art collectors with an interest in Indian artworks, Saffronart, the world’s largest online fine-art auction house, will showcase the works of modern masters and contemporary artists at its annual Autumn Online Art Auction. With a total of 90 lots, the sale includes a wide variety of paintings and sculptures by 43 leading Indian artists, and will take place online at saffronart.com Sept. 8th & 9th. Jehangir Sabavala’s The Wayfarers – II, S.H. Raza’s Bhartiya Samaroh, N.S. Harsha’s Conversing Cleansers, Subodh Gupta’s Untitled (above), Ravinder Reddy’s Untitled and Manjit Bawa’s Untitled, are some of the highlights. An illustrated print catalog is available at saffronart.com. Collectors may also place bids via Saffronart’s BlackBerry and iPhone mobile apps.

303 Gallery - Contemporary photography, video projections, film, paintings, and sculpture. Sue Williams (9/18-10/23); Collier Schorr (10/30-12/4). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 547 W. 21st St., 212-255-1121; 303gallery.com Tibor de Nagy Gallery - Contemporary paintings. David Kapp - Recent Paintings (9/11-10/16); Tom Burckhardt - 157 Elements of a Drawing (9/11-10/16). Mon.-Fri., 10am-5:30pm. 724 Fifth Ave. (56th-57th Sts.), 212-261-5050; tibordenagy.com Mike Weiss Gallery - Contemporary art. Liao Yibai - Real Fake (opening 9/10). Mon.-Fri., 10am-6pm. 520 W. 24th St., 212-691-6899; mikeweissgallery.com David Zwirner - Contemporary art. 525: Suzan Frecon - recent painting (9/8-10/30); 519: Al Taylor - Rim Jobs & Sideffects (9/14-10/23); 533: John McCracken - New Works in Bronze & Steel (9/16-10/23); Raymond Pettibon (11/6-12/21); Luc Tuymans (11/6-12/21). Tues.-Sat., 10am-6pm. 519 W. 19th St., 525 W. 19th St., 533 W. 19th St., 212-517-8677; davidzwirner.com

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Courtesy of Prudential-Douglas Elliman

REAL ESTATENEW YORK Mike Tauber

Courtesy of Warburg Realty

Clockwise from top: [ A spacious pied-à-tierre at 34 Greene Street in SoHo; an apartment at Twenty9th Park Madison with midtown views; the living room in Apartment 1112 at The Pierre Hotel ]

the pied-à-terre and then some Softer prices and a more stable market are providing smart investment opportunities for those who know where to look.

By Kaitlin Ahern

A

bout three years ago, the Manhattan real estate market saw a boom of international investors looking to take advantage of a window of opportunity created by two concomitant conditions: foreign currencies’ strength over the declining dollar and the United States’ faltering housing market. Buyers came in droves from around the globe, but most notably from Western Europe, where the weight both the euro and pound held over the dollar offered an incentive too strong to ignore. But over the past year or so, the dollar has begun to gain back strength and the housing market in Manhattan is stabilizing again. And while it’s true that foreign buyers have declined in number, many are still interested. “People think that because the euro has taken a dip lately that foreign purchasers are no longer active, but that’s not true,” says Luigi Rosabianca, principal attorney of the Manhattan-based real estate law firm Rosabianca & Associates. “The dollar is a bit stronger now, but in New York prices are a little softer than a year ago, so their actual acquisition costs are actually the same.” And with the current economic upheaval in some European countries, Rosabianca says Manhattan real estate is understandably an attractive investment. “Many people are relegated to the fact they have to place their assets somewhere, and what’s safer than bricks?” he says. “The safest bricks in the world are in New York.” While a non-liquid asset may not seem all that attractive to some buyers,

the burgeoning nature of the market right now is providing a lot of opportunities for long-term investors, says Steven Goldschmidt, senior vice president and licensed broker with Warburg Realty. “The market has been very depressed for the past two and a half years. The relative signs of some modest recovery are reflected in the dollar’s strength, and that’s what’s bringing investors back: They see opportunity,” Goldschmidt says. “The signs are all there that things will continue to move in a positive way if you can find good purchases now.” So, where to invest? Interest is always high in the classic neighborhoods like Central Park West and SoHo, but luxury inventory there is currently lacking, says Anne Marie Moriarty, vice president and associate broker with Corcoran Real Estate Group. “The market needs to open up,” Moriarty says. “There’s not as much good property, especially on the higher end. Whereas about two years ago I could show my clients about 10 fantastic properties, now I have only two or three. We’re sorely lacking inventory.” However, a new development at 34 Greene Street in SoHo is attracting attention from buyers looking for a pied-à-terre. Developed by Sorgente, an international firm based in Italy, the 1873 cast iron loft building was redesigned with the international buyer in mind, says Jason Karadus, senior vice president at Prudential Douglas Elliman and Sorgente’s director of sales for the property. Since the building was completed this spring, three out of the seven units have

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Managing the Investment: Platinum Style “Manhattan is a very international city,” says Daniel Hedaya, executive vice president of Platinum Properties, a boutique real estate brokerage and management company based in downtown Manhattan that also has a satellite office in Paris. “It’s a location that people from all over the world know and come to,” he adds, which is why foreign investment in Manhattan property is so common. But when those investors live in China, Europe, or South America, as many of Platinum’s clients do, managing that property can become especially difficult.“ They want a point of contact in Manhattan,” Hedaya says. Platinum Properties was one of the frontrunners in recognizing the demand for services that would streamline the process of managing an apartment from overseas (or a similarly protracted distance), which came coupled with the spike in foreign demand for Manhattan property a few years ago. As a result, the company opened a management branch that caters exclusively to foreign investors. “We help foreign investors with all the tasks associated with the ownership of property in Manhattan, including finding the right property, providing financing, finding and communicating with a renter, maintaining the property, and billing and collecting rent,” Hedaya says. “We manage the day to day activity.” The cost of these services can run anywhere from 7-10 percent of the property’s monthly rent, he adds. Other real estate agencies, and even some individual realtors, have begun partnering with foreign companies to provide similarly extensive broker and management services to international investors: Stribling and Associates recently affiliated with Savills, the London-based international real estate company; Halstead Property now offers Halstead360, a full-service program for real estate investors run by its global services division; and individual agents like Corcoran’s Anne Marie Moriarty have established partnerships with overseas agencies to better reach and serve their foreign clients. The objective of these new-age services, Hedaya says, is to provide a “one-stop shop” for international clients. “All of our services are tailored to the needs of the private investor who is not from New York,” he says. “The goal here is to provide a very easy means of investment in Manhattan without a lot of headache.”

Zamir Equities

sold, and all as second homes to European buyers. “The floors are American oak, but everything else in the residences is European, from the marble to the appliances,” Karadus says. Still, the building’s technological trimmings may be its most attractive feature: All residences come equipped with CytexOne technology, which means everything from lighting to electronics equipment can be controlled remotely from your desktop or smart phone. “It was very much designed with a pied-à-terre buyer in mind,” Karadus says. “You can land at JFK and set up the whole loft from your phone. Or you can set it up for a guest while you’re in Paris.” Four units remain, priced from $3.95 up to $13.75 million for the two-floor, four-bedroom penthouse that clocks in at 5,000 square feet, plus 2,300 square feet of private rooftop terrace. While SoHo is world renowned for the shopping and cultural experience it provides, some buyers may want to be closer to some of Manhattan’s more impressive physical statements, such as the Empire State Building. Five blocks from this quintessential landmark and three blocks from Penn Station lies Twenty9th Park Madison, a 142-unit condominium tower on Park Avenue South. Its proximity to midtown makes it desirable, Goldschmidt says, while it also boasts concierge services and other amenities coveted by foreign absentee owners. Some apartments’ ceilings reach up to 13 feet and floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the city. Studio, one-, and two-bedroom units are available, priced from $685,000 to $1.765 million. While she understands the draws of the archetypal Manhattan neighborhood, Moriarty advises her international clients to keep an open mind and explore areas they’re less familiar with. “I like to educate my clients about different neighborhoods. Sometimes if they’re set, I’ll say let’s wait until something opens up. But sometimes they buy in areas that are alien to their initial opinions and they end up loving it.” One less recognized area that many realtors have pointed to as a smart area to invest in right now is the Financial District. “A lot of people are not going to find a bargain in Central Park West or SoHo,” says Daniel Hedaya, executive vice president with Platinum Properties. “The majority of investors are targeting areas that are hurting a little more.” Hedaya cites an oversupply of condos in FiDi as reason for the attractive prices investors have been noticing there. A property seeing a lot of activity right now, says Hedaya, is 75 Wall Street, a soaring, state-of-the-art condominium building just north of Hanover Square. Prices here range from about $550,000 for a studio up to $8.4 million for a 3,400-square-foot, four-bedroom penthouse duplex. Those with their heart set on park views may want to explore a less traditional route, like a co-op apartment at The Pierre Hotel. Situated at 795 Fifth Avenue and overlooking Central Park, this property appeals to those searching for the quintessential New York luxury home, says Kirk Henckels, director of Stribling Private Brokerage. It comes with all the comforts of a hotel, including furnishings and daily housekeeping and concierge services, and can be rented out by the hotel to defray the buyer’s cost, Henckels says. Apartment 1112, a two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath apartment in the sky, is currently on the market for $6.5 million. No matter where in the city you’re buying, New York is always a strong, safe investment, Moriarty says. “Our currency might fluctuate, the property might falter a bit, but [real estate] is a lot better than the stock market: Thirty years from now you’re going to have something tangible.” n

[ An apartment Platinum Properties manages at the Setai Wall Street, located at 40 Broad Street in the Financial District ]

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Turkish Culture & Tourist Office

TRAVELcruise

Venice to Athens:

cruising the light fantastic With port stops in Ravenna, the Greek Isles, the Turkish seaside, and Istanbul, Crystal Cruises lets travelers meander the Mediterranean in ultimate style. By Ruth J. Katz

C

rystal Cruises’ daily shipboard gazette, Reflections—distributed to staterooms on the regal Serenity each evening—heralds the next day’s happenings, functioning as a maritime town crier. On Wednesday, June 30th, it billboarded the “Oceans 20” luncheon buffet, promising “culinary highlights,” which would be available “for picture-taking at 11:30 a.m.; chefs presented at 11:50 a.m.; and dining begins at 12 noon....” What? Let’s just say that any dining extravaganza for which management has actually set aside 20 minutes for picture-taking is a gastronomic gala I am compelled to plunder. Before continuing to read, however, a health warning: Knock back a statin, because what follows is a mere trifle (O.K., the pun is intended) of the groaning board of desserts alone offered that day: Norwegian wedding cake, caramel flan, Valrhona chocolate mousse, vanilla cream swans, puff pastry cornets, berry compote with heavy cream, chocolate-dipped coconut macaroons, Viennese delight, vanilla bean crème

brûlée, pecan pie, sacher torte, tiramisù, bread pudding...a sampling of cakes: Malakoff, imperial, paradise, black forest, Spanish vanilla nut, carrot, a few sugar-free... and ice creams, fruits, cheeses, caramelized nuts, and a cascading fountain of molten chocolate for dipping. Given that this is but a portion of the desserts, just envision the rest of the food fest. Three hours later, if your stomach is growling, there’s a formal tea service in the panoramic Palm Court. (Not to mention there are a half-dozen dining venues besides the main salon; among them, the Silk Road, featuring mouthwatering delicacies on a menu created by the legendary Nobu Matsuhisa.) Of course, this gustatory celebration was painstakingly prepared, artfully presented, and scrumptious. But then anyone who has ever cruised with this luxury line knows that everything on board is always beyond five-stars. With a guest:crew ratio of 1.65:1, the staff know about details: Guests can even order pillows from a printed pillow menu that features feather-and-down

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From left: [ Steaming past the Piazza San Marco in Venice; offshore in exotic Istanbul ]

offerings plumped to perfection. My wonderful, I’ll-know-what-you-needbefore-you-know-you-need-it butler Saša Minié saw c to countless of those details. This “Byzantine Odyssey” was a journey from Venice to Athens, with three at-sea days. Those are the mornings you wake up languidly, pondering, “How shall I amuse myself today? ” There is never a paucity of activities on board a cruise ship, and Crystal’s staff of enrichment educators and guest lecturers do not disappoint. Fitness activities? There are early-morning and evening classes, even Pilates; table and paddle tennis; sophisticated golf clinics and practice areas for driving/putting, not to mention a carefully outfitted gym and indulgent spa. The University@ Sea offers computer favorites; tickle the ivories of a Yamaha keyboard in Passport to Music; pick up a paintbrush; habla Español; explore Bridge; demystify casino games; learn to cha-cha or merengue. There are lectures galore, includ-

ing many on the history and culture of the ship’s ports of call; a library with well over 3,000 books and DVDs; on-board shopping; nighttime entertainment in multiple venues; and ship tours round out the docket. Take the galley tour, for sure. It’s a stainless steel universe unto itself, a hotbed of staff (180) and round-the-clock bustle. The logistics of planning, ordering, and actually obtaining foodstuffs to be transformed into star-worthy repasts is a thorny ballet orchestrated by culinary masterminds. For a 12-day cruise, enough food has to be stocked for 10,000 dinners—representing over 150 choices of entrees. On a typical cruise, the ship blasts through 50 pounds of caviar, 4,000 pounds of fresh fish, 30,000 eggs...and on a daily basis, meal prep consumes 200 pounds of butter and 500 pounds of flour! And don’t even ask about the laundry! On a cruise such as this one, 126,000 pounds of laundry are done daily, including 2,400 napkins and 450 plush, striped beach towels used poolside. 77

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Greek National Tourism Organization

Greek National Tourism Organization

Turkish Culture & Tourist Office

Greek National Tourism Organization

Fototecca ENIT/Gino Cianci

TRAVELcruise lockwise from top left: C [ The Blue Mosque, Istanbul; the legendary Ponte di Rialto in Venice; the Parthenon, Athens; a typical site on the Greek isle of Mykonos; a panoramic vista of Mykonos ]

It is at the pool, perhaps, that the level of sumptuousness delivered by a Crystal vessel is apparent. Just how gracious and spacious the 820-foot-long Serenity (at capacity, she holds 1022 guests and is serviced by a crew of 655) and her sister ship, the Symphony are, is embodied in a mystifying number, expressed as a space ratio in ship argot, and here it is 64.4, considered one of the highest in the luxury cruising arena. What it means, in practical terms, is that you’ll never feel cramped, never lack a chaise longue for loafing. But, with an itinerary as compelling as this one, you won’t really want to be a pool potato. Naturally, Crystal offers a vast assortment of shore excur-

sions at each port, priced from as little as $42 for a basic scenic bus tour, to more interesting adventures: Discover Rhodes in a 4 x 4 ($206); windsurf in Bodrum ($235); in Corfu, investigate grottoes and caves ($183) by boat; go for broke in Mykonos and charter a private yacht to navigate hard-to-reach coves ($3,447). Ravenna, the western capital of the Roman Empire for three centuries, is a trove of art and history. The city boasts eight World Heritage sites and is perhaps best known for its stunning mosaics, but here you will also find Dante’s tomb, lit by a lamp fueled with oil from Tuscan olive trees. The

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three Greek isles we visited might all be described as having quaint ancient towns, cobbled streets, charming stalls and nooks for (ahem) mercantile prospects, striking churches, and remarkable history, all punctuated by ruins of civilizations past. But the similarities end there; each could not be more diverse, with a different flavor, a distinct vibe. Corfu, mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey, has a picturesque promenade and an impressive cathedral. Mykonos looks like what a set designer would create given the direction to fabricate a Greek isle—a dreamlike, whitewashed village, set against the cerulean sea. The walls of the old city around Rhodes are redolent with bougainvillea and inside that perimeter is a ferment of shops and sites, including a superb archaeology museum. Perhaps one of the most visited island attractions here is the lovingly restored Kahal Shalom synagogue, the oldest temple in Greece; it has a fascinating museum, and is well worth a visit. Ah, Istanbul—that exotic mixture of East and West—offers so much, two days don’t even cross off a page in a guide book. Musts: The Hagia So-

phia, the most glorious Byzantine structure, and for 1,000 years, the largest cathedral in the world (subsequently it became a mosque, and today is a museum); the Blue Mosque, so named because of its resplendent, indigenous blue tiles; the Topkapi Palace, formerly the home of the sultans, which now guards the crown jewels; the Grand Bazaar, with its 4,000 vendors. I spent two hours in Galeri Kayseri (it just reads “Bookshop” outside), poring over massive tomes (at least $1,000 each) by the publisher Ertušg + Kokabiyic, specialists in Byzantine and Ottoman art and architecture. I ended my stay in Istanbul with an evening observing the religious trance-dances of the famous Mevlevi Whirling Dervishes, and a drink at the Çirašgan Palace Kempinski Hotel, waterside on the Bosphorous. And, alas, back to the ship, signaling the end of my whirling adventure. But like so many people I met on board—including a woman who lives on the ship, a couple who have taken over two dozen journeys with Crystal, and another traveler who sailed around the world with Crystal—I will be back! n

[ the details ] For a 12-day cruise like this one, fares start at $6,465 per person, which includes round-trip airfare and a $1,000 per person on-board ship credit; additionally, many travel agents sweeten the package by prepaying on-board gratuities for their clients. Further information: 888-799-4625; crystalcruises.com

[ Splendor aboard the Serenity, top to bottom: A gourmet treat—afternoon tea delicacies; the setting for a sybaritic soak in the spa; a capacious Penthouse Suite with Veranda ]

Veiled Venice Surely it is providential to embark on a cruise aboard the Serenity from the magical metropolis renowned as La Serenissima, the most serene. With two days to savor Venice, I chose to dine one evening at the Bauer Hotel, in its delightful De Pisis restaurant, nestled literally on the water. At dusk, the vistas of the Punta della Dogana (now a contemporary art center), the majestic Santa Maria della Salute church, and the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, will truly enrapture. The sumptuous dinner—fish/shellfish origami papillote with celeriac, almonds, and seaweed sauce, followed by a sinful gorgonzola and liquorice cheesecake with mango and saffron sorbet—was transporting. With time to further explore the exotic La Serenissima, I called on Samantha Durell (an expat New Yorker who has lived there over 21 years) to be my eyes and ears. If you have but one day and want to see churches and museums, Samantha’s not for you, but if you would revel in seeing the hidden Venice through a local’s eyes, her delightful walking tours are spot-on. As you amble among the residential neighborhoods, her commentary is peppered with the most interesting storytelling and cultural history, not to mention solid information about things like Venice’s physical infrastructure. Along the way, you’ll stop at the local “vintner” where you bring your own bottle to fill with regional wine, siphoned from large casks. You’ll go to the bakery for the most heavenly olive bread, stop at the cheesemonger’s, or the fruit purveyor, who sells from a boat—and then you will take all your goodies and briefly “picnic” in her home on the water’s edge. This basic half-day excursion is 275 Euros for two; in addition, Samantha offers several other add-on walks (for photographers and cooks) and a canal excursion, as well. —RJK [ One of the terraces of the Bauer Hotel, with views of the Grand Canal ]

More information: bauervenezia.com; marvindurell@gmail.com or samveniceit@yahoo.com

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New York

Sightseeing

SWEET SOMETHINGS

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Chocolate lovers, mark your calendars: The world’s largest event dedicated entirely to chocolate, the 2010 New York Chocolate Show, rolls into the Metropolitan Pavilion (125 W. 18th St.) Nov. 11th through the 14th. This year’s extravaganza boasts chocolates from world-renowned chocolatiers and pastry chefs, appearances by chefs, book signings by award-winning authors and more. $28 (13 & up) in advance/$30 at the door (kids are free with a two-child-per-adult limit, $8 per additional child (5-12)). To purchase tickets, visit chocolateshow.com.

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ONTHETOWN

9/11 Memorial Preview Site – Learn about the plans for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum currently under construction at the World Trade Center site. Share your 9/11 story with the Museum and help make history. 20 Vesey St. (Church St.), 212-312-8800; national911memorial.org Apollo Theater – Harlem’s world-famous showplace offers tours seven days a week, as well as the Apollo Amateur Night every Wednesday at 7:30pm. 253 W. 125th St. btw. Seventh & Eighth Aves., 212-531-5337; apollotheater.org Battery Park – The row of cannons that once defended New York from invasion and gave this park its name are long gone now, but what remains is a pleasant open space on the water, a popular lunch spot for office workers from the nearby Financial District. The view of the harbor, and of a group of monuments recalling New York’s maritime and commercial history, is unparalleled. Battery Place & State St. (foot of Broadway); batteryparkcity.org Bike and Roll NYC – Bike the Hudson River Greenway—it’s car-free, fun, and easy. A huge variety of bikes and accessories are available, as are guided tours including the Central Park Bike Tour, Brooklyn Bridge & the Hudson River, and many others. For more info, email nyc@bikeandroll.com. Pier 84, Hudson River Park, W. 44th St. & the Hudson River, 212-260-0400; bikeandroll.com/newyork BODIES...The Exhibition – This striking exhibit showcases real human bodies, giving visitors the opportunity to see themselves in a fascinating way like never before. Both captivating and edifying, it unveils the many complex systems of organs and tissues that drive every aspect of our daily lives and unite us all as humans. Exhibition Centre at the South Street Seaport, 11 Fulton St., 888-9BODIES; bodiestheexhibition.com Brooklyn Botanic Garden – 52 carefully tended, intensively planted acres of flora and exotica, including a carefully repro­duced Japanese garden and one of the largest public rose collections in America. Upcoming events: Patrick Dougherty, a monumental woven-wood sculpture in honor of Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s centennial (through 8/31/11); Chile Pepper Fiesta (10/2). Tues.-Fri., 8am-6pm; Sat.-Sun., 10am-6pm. $8; $4 (seniors/ students); free (under 12). 1000 Washington Ave., Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, 718-623-7200; bbg.org Carnegie Hall – Learn about the story of Andrew and Louise Carnegie, hear how the Hall was saved from demolition in 1960, and experience a century-long performance tradition that has showcased the world’s finest artists from Tchaikovsky to Mahler, from Horowitz to Callas to Bernstein—even Judy Garland and the Beatles. Tours are offered seven days a week, as schedule

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permits; call ahead for details. 881 Seventh Ave. at 57th St., 212-903-9765; carnegiehall.org Central Park (centralparknyc.org) – Belvedere Castle (79th St. south of the Great Lawn, 212-772-0210) - This famed, whimsical landmark is within sight of the Delacorte Theatre (summer home of the Public Theater/ New York Shakespeare Festival.) The Henry Luce Nature Observatory at Belvedere Castle is a permanent interactive exhibit focusing on how to observe, record, and identify the plants and wildlife that exist in Central Park’s rich and diverse natural habitats. Bethesda Terrace (mid-Park at 72nd St.) - Reconstruction has restored the Victorian stonework and steps to the acre-sized esplanade. Carousel (mid-Park at 64th St., 212-879-0244) - Nostalgic turn-ofthe-century merry-go-round open daily, weather permitting. Central Park Walks and Talks (212-794-6564) - Subjects ranging from geology to bird-watching to astronomy, ecology, and park history make for lively free weekend walking tours of the Park. Central Park Con­servancy staff and volunteers, as well as Urban Park Rangers of the City of New York Department of Parks and Recreation lead the tours. Central Park Zoo (Fifth Ave. btw. 63rd & 66th Sts., 212-439-6500; centralparkzoo.com) - From a steamy rain forest to an icy Antarctic penguin habitat, the zoo features natural tropical, temperate, and polar environments with dozens of fascinating animals, from leafcutter ants to polar bears, plus monkeys, sea lions, and cute penguins. Open daily; call for hours. The Charles A. Dana Discovery Center in Cen­tral Park (110th St. & Lenox Ave., 212-860-1370) provides year-round environmental education and visitors’ programs. Free workshops, performances, and events highlight the beauty of Central Park and the vitality of its surrounding neighborhoods. Bird­watching, fishing, ecology, and horticulture explorations are just a few of the family and youth activities available. The Conservatory Garden (Fifth Ave. near 105th St.) - A lush and dazzling six-acre garden. The Dairy (mid-Park at 65th St., 212-794-6564) - The main visitor information center, set in a vintage Victorian Chalet. Pick up a map or a calendar, and enjoy the gift shop. Horse-and-Carriage Rides (212-736-0680) wait on the Central Park So./59th St. side of the Park. Sheep Meadow (66th to 69th Sts. on the west side of the park) is a lush, 15-acre quiet zone open for passive play and skyline admiring. Strawberry Fields (71st to 74th St. near Central Park West) - A 2.5-acre Interna­tional Garden of Peace dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre (enter at Central Park West & 81st St., 212-988-9093) - Shows for the general public. Call for current schedule. Tisch Children’s Zoo (Fifth Ave. btw. 64th & 65th Sts., 212-439-6500) - This wildlife center echoes and reinforces the pastoral landscape of Central Park by creating a rustic Enchanted Forest with soft paths and native

plantings. Youngsters will love the bewitching area, which suddenly unfolds into a magical place filled with birds flying freely overhead, contained in a virtually invisible net suspended in the trees, and a petting zoo. Victorian Gardens (212-982-2229; victoriangardensnyc.com), a family-entertainment center with handcrafted rides for children 2-12, interactive games & activities, clowns, face painters, and other amusement park classics, takes over Wollman Rink through 9/12. Wollman Rink (wollmanskatingrink.com) re-opens in October. Central Park Bike Tours and Rentals – Discover Central Park by bike on the original Central Park Bike Tour. This 2-hour leisurely tour is a sure fire way to see all the sights and secrets. A nice combination of exercise and sightseeing. 58th St. & Seventh Ave. and at 51st St. & Twelfth Ave., 212-541-8759; centralparkbiketours.com Circle Line Downtown – Enjoy a narrated harbor tour including views of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and more on board the luxurious ZEPHYR, departing daily at 10am, 11:15am, 12:30pm, 2pm, 3:30pm & 5pm. The Shark speedboat thrill ride runs through Sept. Special cruises include: the Hidden Harbor Tour (9/14); Seaport Music Cruises (every Sat. through 10/2); Happy Hour on the Harbor (select evenings through 10/1); a Halloween Costume Party Cruise (10/31); and Fall Foliage Cruises (10/23, 10/30, 11/6). 866-925-4631; circlelinedowntown.com Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – Take in the grandeur of New York and see spectacular views of Manhattan as knowledgeable guides point out the famous landmarks. There are many cruises to choose from, for every type of traveler: the classic 3-hour Full-Island Cruise; the 2-hour Semi-Circle Cruise; the 75-minute Liberty Cruise (May-Oct.); the romantic 2-hour Harbor Lights Cruise. The Beast’s 30-minute thrill ride runs through 9/30. Pier 83, W. 42nd St. & 12th Ave., 212-563-3200; circleline42.com CitySights NY – See New York from top-seatingonly double-decker buses with unobstructed views of NYC attractions, neighborhoods, and places of interest. Buses are furnished with stateof-the-art sound systems and entertaining urbanstorytellers who offer interesting facts and tales about all of the city’s famous faces and places. They also feature combination tickets, day trips, and more. They offer tours in four languages (Italian, French, German, and Spanish) by way of an audio headset that plugs into a player at each seat. 212-812-2700; citysightsny.com Empire State Building – From the Observatory on the 86th floor, reached by express elevator in less than a minute, Manhattan is an unforgettable spectacle day or night. You’ll enjoy the

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panoramic view, which, on a clear day, reaches 80 miles in each direction. Visitors may also enjoy the free changing exhibits in the lobby. Tickets to the 102nd floor observatory sold only upon arrival. Daily, 8am-2am; last elevator at 1:15. $20; $18 (seniors, 12-17); $14 (6-11). 350 Fifth Ave. (34th St.), 212-736-3100; esbnyc.com Grand Central Terminal – This international landmark masterpiece boasts a huge, dramatic sunken central room, lit by huge windows and ornamented by a whimsically designed ceiling depicting the constellations of the zodiac and a nostalgic in­formation kiosk topped by an old clock set in the center of the main floor. Join the one-hour walking tours, Wed. at 12:30pm, sponsored by the Municipal Art Society; call 212-935-3960. Upcoming events: Turkish Cultural Center Event (9/16-17). 42nd St & Park Ave., 212-532-4900; grandcentralterminal.com

GLITZY, RITZY, AND JUST RIGHT: MADRID’S HOTEL RITZ If you haven’t heard of César Ritz (1850-1918), then you most likely haven’t stayed in one “his” opulent, eponymous hotels. Nicknamed the “king of hoteliers, and hotelier to kings,” Ritz was a formidable Swiss, and yes, you guessed it: the adjective “ritzy” was coined for him. After years as the master of London’s venerable Savoy Hotel, he opened the Ritz in Paris, then the Ritz in London, and in 1910, under the prodding of King Alfonso III of Spain, the Ritz in Madrid. César would be justly proud of his namesake hotel, managed today by Orient-Express. With a lobby dripping in ormolu and polished-to-reflection perfection marble, it promises, and delivers, old-world, cosseting care and world-class service and amenities. Not to mention fabulous food—no accident, since Ritz’s partner-in-crime during his career was the celebrated French restaurateur, and arguably the father of modern French cuisine, Georges Auguste Escoffier. The hotel’s 137 rooms are all decorated differently. The legendary Spanish carpet manufacturer Real Fábrica de Tapices has supplied each room with its underfoot comfort and cushioning, determining the shades of the opulent wall coverings and textiles swathing the chambers in style and grace, exquisite counterpoint to the antiques, polished wooden paneling, fine porcelains, and crystal chandeliers. Even the laundry bags are classy—embroidered white piqué—and regular guests have sumptuous bathrobes custom-embroidered with their initials. And regulars have been legion: Princess Grace and Prince Rainier came to honeymoon; it was here that the American heiress Barbara Hutton cavorted with toreros; kings and queens from just about every royal family tree have camped here as have Madonna and Placido Domingo; Arthur Rubinstein and the Jonas Brothers; Salvador Dalí and Manolo Blahnik, not to mention Fidel Castro and Yassir Arafat. It is no wonder that Travel & Leisure consistently names it to its Best Hotels of the World List, and that it is almost always included on the Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List. And if history, cuisine, elegance, and service are not enough, the hotel is so centrally located, you’ll fall out of bed and land in a Trifecta of Monumental Museums: Museo del Prado, the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the wonderful Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. It’s a short hop to the bucolic Retiro Park and to the famed Plaza Mayor. ritzmadrid.com – RJK

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Gray Line Sightseeing Tours – Daily tours by open-top deluxe double-decker buses and luxury coaches. Classic New York Tour includes a round-trip ferry ticket to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, a ticket to the South Street Seaport Museum, a ticket to the Empire State Building Observatory and the ALL LOOPS TOUR, a 2-day ticket hop-on and off w/ 50+ stops from Times Square and Broadway to Harlem to Brooklyn, & Night Tours. 777 Eighth Ave. btw. 47th & 48th Sts.; PABT, 42nd St. & Eighth Ave.; Times Square, Broadway btw. 46th & 47th Sts., 800-669-0051; newyorksightseeing.com Harlem Spirituals/New York Visions – Explore Harlem with Gospel tours on Sun. and Wed. and the evening soul food and jazz tours Mon., Thurs., and Sat.; New York Visions uncovers the hidden treasures of Manhattan, the Bronx, and Brooklyn. 690 Eighth Ave. (43rd-44th Sts.), 212-391-0900; harlemspirituals.com Helicopter Flight Services Tours – See NYC from above the turmoil of its streets. They offer 2 long helicopter tours that include the Statue of Liberty, NY Harbor, the Chrysler Building, Central Park, Columbia University, the George Washington Bridge, Yankee Stadium and the Financial Center. They also offer customized tours of the city and hourly rates. Downtown Heliport (Pier 6 & the East River), 212-355-0801; heliny.com Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum – The renovated museum complex includes the 900-foot-long aircraft carrier with seven full decks and four theme halls; the guided missile submarine Growler; and an extensive aircraft collection including the A-12 Blackbird and the British Airways Concorde. Experience newly opened areas of the ship, new multimedia presentations and exhibit collections, interactive educational stations, recently restored historic aircraft collection and a brand new state-of-the-art public pier. Upcoming events: 27 Seconds - The Apollo I Tragedy (through 11/21). Pier 86, W. 46th St. & 12th Ave., 212-245-0072; intrepidmuseum.org King Tut – After more than 30 years, the record-breaking exhibition, returns to NYC for its final stop before these ancient treasures return to Egypt forever. Discovery - Times Square Exhibition, 226 W. 44th St., 888-988-8692; kingtutnyc.com Liberty Helicopter Tours – Six different tours in modern jet helicopters. Reservations required for 6 or more passengers. Downtown Heliport (Pier 6 & the East River), 212-967-6464; libertyhelicopters.com Madame Tussauds New York – A chance for an up-close-and-personal look at nearly 200 famous faces, from the Dalai Lama to Madonna, Albert Einstein to Joe DiMaggio. The famed Madame Tussauds wax museum of London has a spectacular NYC version in Times Square that’s become one of the city’s must-see sights. New York and world notables from film, television, music, politics, history and sports are represented in themed displays. Open 365 days a year from 10am. $35; $32 (seniors); $28 (4-12). 234 W. 42nd St. (Seventh-Eighth Aves.), 800-246-8872; madametussauds.com/newyork Madison Square Garden All-Access Tour – The one-hour guided tour features backstage and onstage at the Garden, locker rooms, dressing rooms, and more. Group discounts are available. Tours operate daily, approx. every half-hour: Mon.-Sat., 10am-3pm; Sun., 11am-3pm. $17; under 12, $12.

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Group and student rates available. 4 Pennsylvania Plaza (Seventh Ave. & 32nd St.), info: 212-465-5800; groups: 212-465-6080; thegarden.com/about/ all-access-tour.html NBC Universal Store / Studio Tour – Stroll through the halls of NBC, the NBC History Theatre, and the studios of some of NBC’s most popular shows, including “SNL,” “The Today Show,” and others. Tours run every 15-30 minutes, seven days a week. Reservations recommended. The NBC Universal Store is open Mon.-Sat., 8am-7pm; Sun., 9am-6pm. 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 49th St. btw. Fifth & Sixth Aves., 212-664-3700; nbcuniversalstore.com The New York Botanical Garden – Offering a variety of gardens and collections and events, courses and exhibitions, year-round. Current events include: The Edible Garden (through 10/17). Bronx River Parkway (Exit 7W at Fordham Rd.), The Bronx, or by Metro-North Railroad to Botanical Garden Station, 718-817-8700; nybg.org New York Water Taxi – Tours include the 1-hour Statue of Liberty Express and the Statue By Night Tour. 212-742-1969; nywatertaxi.com NY SKYRIDE – A combination of movie-motion and sights rolled up into NY’s only aerial virtual tour simulator. Guide Kevin Bacon takes you on an adventure above, through, and underneath New York. An IMAX®-style digital presentation combining HD technology, custom-designed seats, and a 6-meter/18-foot screen. Open daily at 8am. Empire State Building, 350 Fifth Ave. (33rd St.), 2nd floor, 212-279-9777; skyride.com

Ticketmaster and the Box Office only. 1260 Sixth Ave. (50th St.), 212-307-7171; radiocity.com Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Times Square – Ripley’s showcases the oddities in life and delivers the ultimate in shockingly strange, true stories. Open daily, 9am-1am. 234 W. 42nd St. (Seventh-Eighth Aves.), 212-398-3133; ripleysnewyork.com South Street Seaport – Located in lower Manhattan, along the East River and adjacent to the Brooklyn Bridge, the refurbished, 200-plus-year-old designated historic landmark is a thriving waterfront community encompassing 12 cobblestone blocks of restored 19th-century buildings, shops, and restaurants. Pier 17 (Water-Fulton Sts.), 212-SEA-PORT; southstreetseaport.com Staten Island Ferry - Free for pedestrians, leaving from South Ferry at the Battery, any day, any time. siferry.com Statue Cruises – The only provider of ferry transportation to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from Battery Park, as well as from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Tickets: $12 adults/$10 seniors/$5 kids (with Audio Tour: $20/$17.25/$12.75). 877-523-9849; statuecruises.com

OnBoard Tours – NYC’s most comprehensive 5-1/2-hour tour combines driving and short walks with a ferry cruise past the Statue of Liberty. Stops include the World Trade Center site, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building. 212-277-8019; onboardnewyorktours.com

Top of the Rock – 30 Rockefeller Plaza’s dazzling, 360-degree indoor and outdoor views are not exactly new –– in fact, it was open from 1933 to 1986. The brainchild of John D. Rockefeller, the original deck was designed to evoke the upper decks of a 1930s grand ocean liner. They’ve preserved the historic integrity of Rockefeller’s creation while incorporating innovative features, and three decks featuring outdoor terraces and indoor space. Open daily, 8am-midnight. Reserved-time tickets available. 30 Rockefeller Center (W. 50th St. btw. Fifth & Sixth Aves.), 877-692-7625; topoftherocknyc.com

Radio City Music Hall – Get an exclusive look at the legendary hall. And as a bonus, you’ll meet one of the world-famous Rockettes. Daily, 11am-3pm. $17; seniors, $14; under 12, $10. Tickets sold at the Radio City Avenue Store on the day of the tour. Advance tickets can be purchased through

United Nations – Multilingual guided tours normally leave every half hour Mon.-Fri., 9:45am-4:45pm. Call 212-963-7539 for a schedule of tours in other languages. $16; seniors & students, $11; children 5-14, $9. Children under five not admitted. First Ave. & 46th St., 212-963-8687; un.org/tours

The InterContinental New York Times Square: Luxury that’s Eco-Friendly This summer, Times Square welcomed a new hotel to the neighborhood: the InterContinental. Located on West 44th Street at Eighth Avenue in the heart of the Broadway Theatre District and a short stroll from Fifth Avenue shopping, the 607-room, 36-story property is the largest hotel to be built in New York from the ground up in nearly a decade. The grand opening of the InterContinental was marked by a “vine-cutting” ceremony that celebrated the hotel’s eco-friendly initiatives, including two green roofs on the second and seventh floors, compact fluorescent and LED lights, low-flow toilets and the use of local and recycled building materials and off-site composting. The hotel is currently seeking silver LEED certification which will make it the largest new-build hotel in New York to achieve this prestigious environmental recognition. Developed by Tishman Hotel & Realty, the stunning property boasts a Todd English restaurant called Ça Va, a lobby-level courtyard garden, a 2,700-square-foot penthouse, touch-screen computers in every room and oversized spa-inspired bathrooms with walk-in rain showers accented with midnight blue mosaic tile. As one of the closest hotels to the Javits Convention Center, the hotel features 10 meeting rooms totaling 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including a 4,000-square-foot ballroom. Additionally, there are 25 flexible suites that can be utilized as event space. But the real standout here are the amazing views of New York. Virtually every guest room and suite is wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows, providing guests with panoramic views of Times Square, Broadway, the New York City skyline and the Hudson River.

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Promenade PICKS Oceana

In September of 2009, the Livanos family, owners of this legendary sea-foodery, made a big splash by packing up their crew - including lauded Executive Chef Ben Pollinger – and moving from East 54th Street to a glittering and expansive Rockefeller Center location on West 49th. Their new locale offers a 165-seat dining room, private rooms providing an additional 106 seats, and additional outdoor seating for 60. A huge, custom lobster tank announces the open kitchen and the striking raw bar greets Oceana’s entrants with one of the largest displays of fresh fish in the city. Raw bar diners lucky enough to snag a seat at this luxuriously appointed beacon of seafood are privy to a daily selection of oysters and clams on the half shell, crudos, ceviches, caviar plates and chilled seafood — among which marinated razor clams, and the spicy smoked tuna roll are stand-outs. A pure and natural ethos characterizes Pollinger’s cooking style. Through his innovative compositions, traditional preparations of whole fish and other offerings are transformed into superb global cuisine, such as the bold flavors of his Halibut saltimbocca with spinach, prosciutto, confit tomato and sheep’s milk ricotta. House smoked fish, specialty condiments and artisan breads baked on premises further showcase his careful attention to detail.

Known the world over, ‘21’ is one of the most iconic and elegant dining destinations in New York City. Still the place to see and be seen, ‘21,’ by Orient-Express, has been welcoming guests for over 80 years. There are two restaurants within ‘21,’ each offering something distinctively appealing. The heart of ‘21’ is the famous Bar Room with its collection of corporate logos and sports memorabilia suspended from the ceiling and its sophisticated yet fun setting. Superb American cuisine is featured on an extensive á la carte menu plus prix-fixe menus offering great value at both lunch and dinner. Executive Chef John Greeley balances classic ‘21’ dishes such as Dover Sole and New York’s best crab cakes with his own cutting-edge creations such as Vermont farm-raised lamb with creamed nettles, roasted eggplant and fingerling potatoes; and roasted halibut with shrimp, bay scallops, razor clams, bok choy, chanterelle and corn kernels.

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‘21’ Club

Although any restaurateur or chef will tell you that the greatest reward is getting a positive response from patrons, Oceana has sustained quite a few more tangible ones as well. Besides glowing reviews in Crain’s and the NY Post, Oceana has been awarded a Michelin star for four years running, and was nominated for a 2010 Time Out New York “Eat Out Award” for “Best New Seafood Restaurant.” In his three-star review, former Times critic Frank Bruni wrote, “The fish was excellent, and superbly cooked. More than that, it was a vessel for an exhilarating voyage around the world, through culinary traditions as disparate as Italian and Indian.” Location 120 West 49th Street • 212-759-5941 • oceanarestaurant.com

One flight above the Bar Room is the more intimate Upstairs at ‘21,’ acclaimed by the New York Times as New York’s most romantic restaurant. Enjoy wonderful cuisine and impeccable service in a formal setting adorned by four murals of scenic New York. ‘21’ also features one of the world’s most prized wine cellars, which has earned the Grand Award from Wine Spectator magazine. Among its 1,300 selections are more than 130 priced at $60 or less. For one of the city’s most comfortable meeting spots for cocktails, try the lounge at ‘21’ with its leather chairs and wood-burning fireplace. Men need jackets to dine but one can be provided if you are traveling. And please, no jeans or sneakers.

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’21’ Club also has 10 beautifully appointed private banquet rooms. No two are alike and these rooms are perfect for everything from a small corporate event to a large family celebration. Parties of 10 to 200 for lunch or dinner, and up to 400 for a reception can be accommodated to enjoy classic American cuisine, and experience service that is both caring and anticipating. Location 21 West 52nd Street • 212-582-7200 (Private Dining: 212-582-1400) • 21club.com

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DINING Open kitchens

New York By Marian Betancourt

A Voce, Columbus Circle

Missy Robbins, A Voce’s Executive Chef, is one of Food and Wine magazine’s top ten chefs for 2010, and previously worked at Spiagga in Chicago, a favorite of President and Mrs. Obama, and also an open kitchen. “Cooking in an open kitchen actually made me calmer,” she says. Although a glass wall encloses the kitchen at A Voce on the third floor of the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle, it is visible to all in the 114-seat dining room and 34-seat bar area. Robbins emphasizes flavor in cooking with traditional Italian ingredients. For example, in an appetizer called Funghi al Forno, “It’s about the mushrooms,” Robbins says. Trumpet royal mushrooms are roasted with butter and thyme to release their earthiness and served with a fonduta of fontina cheese and truffle, reduced cream, and a sprinkling of hazelnuts. Pasta is handmade and the diamond-shaped Sagne alla Amatriciana is dressed with a sauce of San Marzano tomatoes, bacon and marjoram, sprinkled with pecorino cheese. Robbins has an affinity for marjoram, which she calls “the feminine version of oregano.” A signature secondi is Agnello, two grilled Colorado lamb chops served with braised lamb belly (the most concentrated lamb flavor), Yukon gold potatoes, and the buttery black Taggiasca olives from Liguria. Meyer lemon and chilies are so delicately used to enhance flavor that the succulent lamb practically sings an aria in your mouth.

Gregory Zapantis, chef/partner of Kellari Taverna, believes today’s restaurant goers want to be transported to a different dimension to forget their cares. Thus, the restaurant becomes theater. Fittingly, his busy, four-year-old establishment is in the Theatre District and diners can view the open kitchen from almost any of the 220 seats. Those who like to sit closest to the kitchen often choose the tasting menu, a family-style Aegean feast, which waiters describe in detail. (“We get them involved,” Zapantis says.) The kitchen is framed by a mountain of ice with the day’s fish and baskets of fresh-baked bread hanging overhead. Tomatoes, lemons, and bottles of Greek olive oil add to the friendly ambiance, which is enhanced by low-key background music featuring Sinatra and other standards.

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Kellari Taverna

A three-course $29 prix fixe (prezzo fisso in Italian) menu, available weekdays for lunch and early dinner, focuses on particular regions of Italy and changes every two weeks. A new series of chef’s dinners with the sommelier began this fall with a white truffle dinner. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Entrees range from $22 to $34. Location 10 Columbus Circle • 212-823-2523 • avocerestaurant.com

Zapantis grew up in a fishing family on Kefalonia, an island off the west coast of Greece, where they grill the large fish and pan sear smaller ones in olive oil. That’s how it is done here, where 85 percent of the menu is fish – the most popular being grilled lavraki, a mild sea bass served with steamed wild greens. Jumbo shrimp, garides psites, are grilled with lemon, olive oil, and indigenous herbs. The fire-roasted salmon, or solomos, is served with a tangy sauce of red beet reduction and organic asparagus and fennel. Greek salad is made with organic or heirloom tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, peppers, feta, olive oil, and wild Greek oregano, picked from mountainsides overlooking the Mediterranean.

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Entrees from $26 to $40; the $39 three-course theatre menu is available from 4 to 7pm or after 10pm. Or try the $26 prix-fixe lunch, or the $49 Aegean Feast. Location 19 West 44th Street • 212-221-0144 • kellari.us

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Aldea Aldea (al-DAY-ah), which means village in Portuguese, is a small, elegant restaurant with 68 seats and a simple blue-and-glass décor that conveys a feeling of the sea. In this long, narrow space, the bar is near the front door and the kitchen is at the far end. There are six stools at the kitchen counter and behind those are two tables for four or six guests. “People do request these seats,” says chef/owner George Mendes, who tried to ban picture-taking because it was distracting the staff, “but I gave up after it became impossible to enforce.” A signature petiscos (small bite) is sea urchin toast. A delicacy considered by some to be the “new caviar,” sea urchin has the feel of panna cotta and is at the same time briny and sweet. Served on a bed of cauliflower cream on thin toast with mustard seed, a squeeze of lime and a sprig of sea lettuce, “it’s meant to be consumed in two bites,” says Mendes. The lunch menu includes an open-faced sea urchin sandwich with heirloom tomatoes, which provides a few more bites. The most popular entrée is Arroz de Pato, a hearty dish of rice, duck confit, chorizo, black olive, and crispy duck cracklings, which Time Out magazine called one of the 10 best things to eat in New York. “Something is changing all the time on the selective menu,” says this hands-on owner/chef, who is in constant motion in the small kitchen he shares with six others.

This Bobby Flay restaurant occupies a beautiful two-story space designed by David Rockwell that can accommodate 200 guests. The raw bar in front of the open kitchen is a popular attraction here and one recent lunch time, four young businessmen made swift work of a triple tier of shellfish platters along with a variety of relishes and sauces that went with it. On a more manageable level, you can order one of three specialty shellfish cocktails—shrimp-tomatillo, crab-coconut, or lobster-avocado. Smaller portions of the three can be served together as a mini-tasting.

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Bar Americain

Lunch and dinner daily except Sundays; reserve two or three weeks ahead for prime time. Entrees from $24 to $29; a five-course chef’s tasting menu is $80 but must be ordered for the entire table. Location 31 West 17th Street • 212-675-7223 • aldearestaurant.com

The spicy tuna tartar is the must-have appetizer. An essence of chipotle is finessed into the cold raw tuna for the perfect hint of heat. The tartar is surrounded by a dusting of chopped egg, capers, and red onion. Another signature appetizer is fried green tomatoes with fresh ricotta, basil, and a sweet and sour dressing. Entrees include a selection of spice-rubbed steaks, as well as a variety of seafood, but always check out the Plate of the Day. One Tuesday it was seared Nantucket Bay scallops nestled on a bed of roasted lemon grits and drizzled with green California olive, served in a wide pasta bowl. Cheese is not the only complement to grits— the fresh, bold flavor of roasted lemon grits will linger in your culinary memory bank for a long time. Bobby Flay’s affinity for Kentucky is the flavor focus of a profiterole filled with vanilla bean ice cream and dripping with rich bourbon sauce. Like a hollow popover, the profiterole can easily be split in two for a shared dessert.

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Open daily for lunch and dinner. Entrees from $24 to $39. Location 152 West 52nd Street • 212-265-9700 • baramericain.com

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Open kitchens Olives, Union Square The open kitchen at Olive’s, the Todd English restaurant off the street-level lobby of the W Hotel in Union Square, attracts regulars who occupy the only two seats at the counter. There’s also a large party table opposite the kitchen. “People are more knowledgeable today,” says Executive Chef Michael Crain. “They like engaging with the chef.” Known for their European craft beers and house cocktails such as the Olive’s Infusion of vodka, ginger, pineapple, and rum, the bar is a lively scene of the young and hip before diners begin arriving later in the evening to fill the 120-seat dining room. A fig and prosciutto flatbread with rosemary, sweet and sour fig jam, gorgonzola, and prosciutto di Parma, is a good start to dinner here. Or try the very tender grilled octopus salad with smoky roasted green pepper acquired earlier that same day from the green market across the street. Bits of chorizo add some heat. A pan-roasted red snapper, served in corn chowder with lobster foam, is tender inside with great crunch on the outside. The grilled sirloin is topped with tender fava beans, sliced onions and mushrooms and accompanied by crunchy, thimble-size risotto cakes in their own little pool of truffle oil aioli. “We call them risotto tots,” says Crain. The Liquid Snickers is a scoop of rich brown butter ice cream and another of milk ice surrounded on a long narrow plate by a warm and crunchy sauce of caramel, nuts, and chocolate. If a Snickers bar had remade itself at culinary heaven it would be this fabulous dessert.

Jean Georges Vongerichten’s Mercer Kitchen in the basement of the Mercer Hotel in SoHo feels like a hotel kitchen, but one of warmth and geniality. Brightly lit, this open kitchen reflects the shine on the white wall tiles and the gleam of the pots and pans hanging from hooks over the stoves. No counter prevents you from walking right in, although most diners are perfectly happy to watch the activity from nearby communal tables. Private tables occupy the other half of the restaurant, near the bar with its lively, standing-room-only SoHo “scene.”

Entrees from $25 to $35; chef’s tasting menu is $72 per person for the entire table. NYC

Mercer Kitchen

Location W Hotel, 201 Park Avenue South • 212-353-8345 • toddenglish.com

There is a brick pizza oven in the kitchen where they make appetizersize pizza with un-pizza-like ingredients such as black truffle and fontina cheese, or raw tuna and wasabi. The New York strip steak topped with gingered shitake mushrooms and sweet and tangy caramel soy-infused sauce (with a whisper of balsamic vinegar) is arranged on a bed of perfectly tender and bright green broccoli rabe. Fried shoestring potatoes are served alongside a tiny saucer of Heinz ketchup. This mouth-tickling blend of comfort food and exotica is just one example of Jean Georges’ infinite talents with global flavors. Slowly baked salmon, still moist and tasting of the ocean, is served on a bed of fresh corn pudding, and garnished with cherry tomato vinaigrette containing a bit of onion. A refreshing dessert is the wine sorbet, an infusion of intensely flavored tiny strawberries and red currants, accompanied by ladyfingers like no others.

NYC

Entrees from $19 to $35. A $38 prix fixe dinner is available from Monday to Thursday from 6 to 6:30pm or at 10pm. Location 99 Prince Street • 212-966-5454 • jean-georges.com

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DININGNEWYORK American ABC Kitchen - Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s contemporary American restaurant inside ABC Carpet & Home features a locally sourced, globally artistic changing menu “passionately commited to offering the freshest organic and local ingredients possible.” Open for dinner 7 days at 5:30. ABC Carpet & Home, 35 E. 18th St., 212-475-5829; abckitchennyc.com Aldea - Named after the Portuguese word for village, Aldea’s seasonal, New American menu is inspired by the Iberian Peninsula and Chef George Mendes’ heritage, including a variety of shellfish, various preparations of salt-cod, or bacalao, rice dishes and Iberian-cured hams. 31 W. 17th St., 212-675-7223; aldearestaurant.com Aureole - This American eatery—located in the most environmentally advanced skyscraper in the world—offers the best of famed chef Charlie Palmer’s unabashed, energetic signature Progressive American cuisine. The sharply focused flavors of Executive Chef Christopher Lee’s elegant menu continue to draw rave reviews, showcasing the best of the season. One Bryant Park, 135 W. 42nd St., 212-319-1660; charliepalmer.com/ Properties/Aureole/NY Beacon - Feasting on cuisine cooked over a wood fire is an incomparably delicious experience, and at Beacon, it’s all about the flame. Waldy Malouf, chef and co-owner, wields flame as a culinary tool to enhance the bold flavors of his ingredients, employing a wood-burning oven, a rotisserie, and a grill to perfect his earthy, flavorful and inventive American fare. 25 W. 56th St., 212-332-0500; beaconnyc.com Blue Smoke - This bustling restaurant puts the “soul” back into soul food. They’ve got spareribs cooked Kansas City-style (saucy) and St. Louis-style (marbled), as well as pulled-pork and Texas beef-brisket sandwiches. Make a night of it—lick the sauce off your fingers and head downstairs for live music at the Jazz Standard. 116 E. 27th St., 212-447-7733; bluesmoke.com The Breslin Bar and Dining Room - The latest gastropub venture from the team behind the Spotted Pig and chef de cuisine Peter Cho, featuring full English breakfasts, decadent three-cheese-and-ham sandwiches, and some of the best fries in the city. For dinner, expect exquisite cuts of meat, sausages, and a variety of terrines. Ace Hotel, 20 W. 29th St., 212-679-2222; thebreslin.com Bryant Park Grill - Overlooking the magnificent Bryant Park and set behind the landmarked New York Public Library, this American-style grill, with seasonal outdoor patio and roof-top dining, features an elegant and sophisticated dining room ideal for a romantic dinner or a festive party. Whether you’re in the mood for light fare or a full-course meal, the restaurant’s

high-end, traditional menu is sure to delight. 25 W. 40th St., 212-840-6500; arkrestaurants.com City Hall Restaurant - City Hall Restaurant has been a crowd pleaser since opening in 1998. Just a few blocks from “the other City Hall,” this sophisticated Tribeca mainstay blends 21st-century elegance with rustic New York charm. Chef/owner Henry Meer brings almost 30 years of experience to the table in the form of surf, turf, and his claim to “the best burger in town.” 131 Duane St. (West Broadway-Church St.), 212-227-7777; cityhallnewyork.com David Burke at Bloomingdale’s - The ultimate in culinary cafes, David Burke brings his signature creations to this upscale but casual setting. Nothing satisfies the shop-till-you-drop appetite like the highly touted asiago truffle fries, and for the dinner guest, every night of the week you’ll find a $24.07 three-course prix-fixe dinner. 150 E. 59th St., 212-705-3800; burkeinthebox.com David Burke Townhouse - The flagship of the Burke-ian fleet, this provocative and elegant Upper East Side resident has been turning heads and delighting patrons since 2003. As dishes—like the culinary marvel, the crisp & angry lobster “cocktail”—make their way through the dining room you’ll see that Burke’s flair for presentation is matched only by the food’s outstanding taste. 133 E. 61st St., 212-813-2121; davidburketownhouse.com Doral Arrowwood - Westchester County’s Doral Arrowwood hotel features three dining options. Dine al fresco at Mulligan’s Outdoor Cafe, which overlooks the ninth green and features salads, light dishes, and grilled specialties. The PUB has a wrap-around bar and fireplace as well as 14 high-definition flat-screen TVs, pool tables, dartboards, and a dance floor. The light, airy Atrium serves buffet-style lunches and à la carte dinners. 975 Anderson Hills Road, Rye Brook, NY, 914-939-5500; doralarrowwood.com Eleven Madison Park - Relive the glamorous era of Cole Porter and New York’s café society in the sleek, high-ceilinged elegance of what was once the cavernous Art Deco assembly hall of the old Met Life Building. The restaurant has that wonderful jazzy, streamlined look of the Roaring ’20s and the menu features American fare with an emphasis on sophisticated French classics. 11 Madison Ave. (24th St.), 212-889-0905; elevenmadisonpark.com The Four Seasons - A spectacularly beautiful restaurant serving excellent American seasonal specialties. As seasons change, so do the menu and decor. The restaurant has two dining rooms: the Pool Room with its trees and marble pool, and the wood-paneled Grill Room. And one of America’s most complete wine lists. We strongly recommend that you make your reservation at least 5 to 7 days in advance. 99 E. 52nd St., 212-754-9494; fourseasonsrestaurant.com

The Four Seasons Restaurant is one of New York City’s most iconic restaurants, and over the last 50 years, in the same location on East 52nd Street, it has flourished as a dining destination and one of the city’s premier power lunch venues. Offering award-winning seasonal American cuisine created from locally grown ingredients, the Four Seasons offers two dining rooms: the Pool Room is airy and romantic, with a bubbling marble pool and canopy of trees; while the Grill Room has soaring two-story windows, French walnut-paneled walls, and the restaurant’s legendary wooden bar. 99 E. 52nd St. (btw. Lexington and Park Aves.), 212-754-9494; fourseasonsrestaurant.com

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Gilt - Executive chef Justin Bogle helms the New York Palace’s elegant and refined yet striking and futuristic Gilt, where contemporary, honeycolored leather accented with white man-made materials provide harmonious contrast to the 19th-century details. The New American menu offers transcendent twists on the classics. 455 Madison Ave. (50th St.), 212-891-8100; giltnewyork.com

The River Cafe - One of the world’s most famous views combined with one of the most glamorous and romantic restaurants creates a premier dining destination for discriminating New Yorkers as well as heads of state and celebrities. The cuisine, desserts, and outstanding wine list more than live up to the spectacular waterfront ambiance. 1 Water St. at the East River, Brooklyn, 718-522-5200; rivercafe.com

Rouge Tomate - This striking space of rich natural wood, plush booths and a cranberry pool complete with a sexy bar and lounge offers a refuge for the urban set. Chef Jeremy Bearman’s Modern American cuisine touts impeccably created dishes that utilize local purveyors and sustainable ingredients. 10 E. 60th St., 646-237-8977; rougetomatenyc.com

Gramercy Tavern - This classic American tavern offers extraordinary cuisine and hospitality in a historic landmark, featuring contemporary American fare with French and Italian overtones in a dining room that recalls a country estate. 42 E. 20th St., 212-477-0777; gramercytavern.com The Harrison - This Tribeca favorite—with a menu by chef Amanda Freitag—exudes the aura of a long-time neighborhood haunt, serving comfort food with a downtown twist. 355 Greenwich St. (Harrison St.), 212-274-9310; theharrison.com Inside Park at St. Bart’s - A space built across the famous Terrace at St. Bartholomew’s Church, with intricate, Byzantine-like decorative stenciling, true to the immense room’s original colors, motifs, and craftsmanship, painstakingly replicated on the 30-foot ceiling, as well as on the walls and overhanging balcony. Executive Chef Matthew Weingarten oversees the ever-changing contemporary American menu. 109 E. 50th St., 212-593-3333; insideparknyc.com The Libertine - Celebrity chef Todd English’s clubby restaurant and bar with a small dining room and a rustic pub fare menu. A popular stop for the neighborhood’s Financial District workers. 15 Gold St. (Platt St.), 212-785-5950; libertinerestaurant.com Métrazur - Charlie Palmer’s gorgeous seasonal American restaurant overlooking Grand Central Terminal’s Main Concourse features an open kitchen where Chef de Cuisine Stefan Bahr adds a Mediterranean touch to Palmer’s signature style. Grand Central Terminal, East Balcony, 42nd St. & Park Ave., 212-687-4600; charliepalmer.com/Properties/Metrazur/ The Park Room - Exceptional nouveau American cuisine—courtesy of executive chef Anthony Marra—and stunning views of Central Park are the order of the day at Helmsley Park Lane’s The Park Room, making for a quintessential New York experience. The dinner menu currently features entrées such as baked black sea bass, a five-spice duck breast, roast bone-in pork loin, and organic pork chops. Helmsley Park Lane, 36 Central Park So. btw. Fifth & Sixth Aves., 212-521-6655; helmsleyparklane.com Per Se - Luxurious in its stunning views of Central Park from each table, its décor of dark woods and glittering metal surfaces and its incomparable menu featuring caviar, lobster, foie gras, and Kobe beef. Time Warner Center, 10 Columbus Circle (60th St.), 4th Floor, 212-823-9335; perseny.com

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DININGNEWYORK “21” Club - One of the most iconic and elegant dining destinations in NYC. Executive Chef John Greeley balances classic ‘21’ dishes such as Dover sole and New York’s best crab cakes with his own cutting-edge creations such as Vermont farm-raised lamb with creamed nettles, roasted eggplant and fingerling potatoes; and roasted halibut with shrimp, bay scallops, razor clams, bok choy, chanterelle and corn kernels. Dine in either the famous Bar Room or the romantic Upstairs at ‘21’; or host an event in one of their 10 private banquet rooms. Jacket required. 21 W. 52nd St., 212-582-7200; 21club.com 2 West - A spacious, elegant, French-American eatery with park views, on the waterfront. Chef Michael Grau accents his menu of prime steaks and Atlantic seafood with regional ingredients, and classic French sauces. Ritz-Carlton, Battery Park, 2 West St., 212-344-0800; ritzcarlton.com Union Square Cafe - By day, this is one of the most red-hot businesslunch spots in town; by night, it’s a popular bistro. Owner Danny Meyer, chef Michael Romano, and executive chef Carmen Quagliata oversee this hit, serving American cuisine with Italian soul. 21 E. 16th St. (Union Sq. West-Fifth Ave.), 212-243-4020; unionsquarecafe.com The View - Spectacular, panoramic views of the city from the 47th floor and inviting décor of leather, velvet and lacquered woods are a splendid backdrop for the contemporary American, New York-centric menu and wine list. Times Square Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway (45th-46th Sts.), 212-704-8900; nymarriottmarquis.com Vince & Eddies - Located near Lincoln Center, this cozy spot offers upscale American comfort food, including beef stew, lamb shank, and much more. The glass-enclosed courtyard garden and fireplace make it a charming destination during any season. 70 W. 68th St. (Columbus Ave.-Central Park West), 212-721-0068; vinceandeddiesnewyork.com

Asian Bann - Young Choi, owner of Woo Lae Oak, got even more creative with Bann, the city’s highest-rated Korean restaurant according to Zagat. While the décor evokes Korea—the elegant, cool ambiance is characterized by the handcrafted copper bar and marble tables, with the flickering flames of smokeless barbecue grills in the center of each table—the fare is very eclectic. 350 W. 50th St., 212-582-4446; bannrestaurant.com Mr. K’s - Chinese fare in a spectacular Art Deco food palace. Fresh from Washington D.C., where he wowed the culinary tastes of the Capitol set for 15 years, proprietor Johnny Kao has transformed an old bank into a splendid serene oasis with a bar that dazzles with green Avonite tops and etched glass panels, complementing the rich, mauve interior, two-tone wood décor and quietly elegant ambiance. 570 Lexington Ave. (51st St.), 212-583-1668; mrksny.com

Pranna - Executive chef Keith Kornfeld adds his own special touch to the flavors of modern Southeast Asian cuisine in a wide-open, opulent space. The satays are especially popular, while the menu also includes dishes from Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and India. 79 Madison Ave. (28th St.), 212-696-5700; prannarestaurant.com Spice Market - Stepping into this Meatpacking District retreat will transport you into a world of Eastern exotica, far from New York’s urban hustle and bustle. The airy, two-level room features teak floors from a 200-year-old Bombay palace, and custom-made, colonial-style furniture. Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten draws inspiration from the best of the region’s street food and gives it a New York spin. 403 W. 13th St., 212-675-2223; jean-georges.com Sugiyama - Even New York’s most knowledgeable Japanese- cuisine aficionados are astonished by the authenticity of chef-owner Nao Sugiyama’s creations, which are his own interpretation of the traditional Kaiseki meals— multi-course, prix-fixe dinners that range from the mini-Kaiseki to a majestic 14-course extravaganza—all personally prepared behind an open counter. 251 W. 55th St., 212-956-0670; sugiyama-nyc.com Tse Yang Restaurant - The serenely elegant Tse Yang lives up to its name, an exclusive epicurean “Center of the Sun” boasting authentic, Northern Chinese seasonal dishes created from fresh local and imported ingredients and served European-style. 34 E. 51st St., 212-688-5447; tseyangnyc.com Woo Lae Oak - Featuring upscale, radically innovative Korean fare in a sleek, cool interior in the heart of SoHo. The dishes, which fuse traditional elements with a modern flair, have garnered praise and popularity in equal measure. 148 Mercer St. (Prince St.), 212-925-8200; woolaeoaksoho.com

Continental Delmonico’s - Founded in 1837, Delmonico’s was the country’s first fine-dining establishment, introducing haute cuisine, wine lists, and menus written in French to the United States. It has been returned to its former glory in its stately landmark premises in the Financial District, with dark mahogany and period murals that evoke the restaurant’s legendary days as the favorite haunt of the city’s power brokers. Private dining rooms available. 56 Beaver St. (William St.), 212-509-1144; delmonicosny.com One If By Land, Two If By Sea - Consistently rated one of the most romantic restaurants in New York. Located in a converted carriage house, with two fireplaces and a pianist playing in the background, it’s like dining in an aristocrat’s extravagant living room. 17 Barrow St. (Seventh Ave.W. 4th St.), 212-228-0822; oneifbyland.com

The grand atmosphere of The Park Room features extravagant brass chandeliers, arched high ceilings covered with velour, mirrored columns, a color scheme reflecting the changing seasons, and floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal sensational views of Central Park. The Atlantic Rim menu reflects the overall feel, offering authentic flavors and using market ingredients while adding an occasional twist. The adjacent Harry’s Bar offers a small menu of sandwiches and bar snacks, but its main focus is the choice of wines by the glass that change regularly. Open daily (7am-10pm) for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Harry’s Bar is open daily from noon to 1am. Helmsley Park Lane, 36 Central Park So. (btw. Fifth and Sixth Aves.), 212-521-6655; helmsleyparklane.com

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Opia - This plush and popular Midtown oasis offers a total New York experience with creative food and wines from around the world. The menu includes American, French and international specialties such as a full sushi bar serving the freshest sashimi, maki rolls, and cones. 130 E. 57th St., 212-688-3939; opiarestaurant.com

DELIS

France adorn the walls. 340 West Broadway (Grand St.), 212-431-0021; felixnyc.com Gascogne - Re­flecting the hospitality, joie de vivre, and hearty regional fare of Gascony is this Gallic jewel. The décor is a blend of rustic French and candlelit romance. It is almost de rigueur to end the evening with a glass of fine Armagnac, the region’s most famous spirit. 158 Eighth Ave. (17th-18th Sts.), 212-675-6564; gascognenyc.com

Jean Georges - Contemporary French works of art created by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. There is both a formal dining room and the more casual Nougatine Room. Reservations are generally taken one month in advance. Jacket and tie required. Trump International Hotel, 1 Central Park West (60th-61st Sts.), 212-299-3900; jean-georges.com La Grenouille - One of the last hold-outs in the rarified world of fine French dining in New York,

Carnegie Deli - For the truly robust appetite in search of the quintessential New York eating experience, the Carnegie has been offering delicious gigantic sandwiches in the hotel and Theatre District since 1937. One of the world’s most famous and busiest delis, and a required culinary stop on any visit, they specialize in oversized portions of the whole range of scrumptious deli food—from Jewish-style meats to smoked white fish and cheese blintzes. 854 Seventh Ave. (55th St.), 212-757-2245; carnegiedeli.com Katz’s Delicatessen - Sometimes it’s best to leave a classic alone, as in the case of the famous Katz’s Deli. This near-mythic legendary restaurant has been serving half-pound sandwiches of hot pastrami and corned beef, plump grilled franks, knishes, matzoh ball soup, and other favorite deli fare since 1888. Open 24 hours. 205 E. Houston St. (Ludlow St.), 212-254-2246; katzdeli.com

French/French Bistro Balthazar - A magnetic dining scene, filled to the brim with luminaries from the art, movie, theatre, and fashion worlds and stalwart nightlifers in a transplanted Parisian-brasserie-like atmosphere. Traditional bistro fare is served from breakfast through late-night dinner, with an extensive wine list, a raw seafood bar, and breads and pastries from Balthazar bakery. 80 Spring St. (BroadwayCrosby St.), 212-965-1414; balthazarny.com Brasserie 8 1/2 - A delicate fusion of creativity and comfort, featuring a world-class art collection, haute French cuisine, and a plush atmosphere, complemented by Latin- and Asian-influenced dishes, a raw bar, and desserts. 9 W. 57th St., 212-829-0812; rapatina.com/brasserie8/ Corton - Legendary chef Drew Nieporent has reinvented and re-imagined his long-adored Tribeca mainstay Montrechet with new decor, a new name, and a new chef, Paul Liebrandt, who brings his revolutionary molecular-gastronomy skills to reinvent French classics. 239 West Broadway (White St.), 212-219-2777; cortonnyc.com Daniel - One of the rare restaurants with a fourstar rating by The New York Times, Daniel marries neighborhood hominess with a contemporary French menu inspired by the seasons and the market, in a Renaissance-inspired dining room. 60 E. 65th St., 212-288-0033; danielnyc.com Felix - Some of the SoHo’s finest French food, lovingly prepared and served in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, where prewar photos from

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DININGNEWYORK

La Grenouille continues to attract patrons in search of its flawless, Gallic cuisine. The menu offers the classic cuisine that guests have appreciated since the restaurant opened in 1962, featuring frogs legs, Burgundy-braised oxtail, and chicken in champagne sauce. Jacket required. 3 E. 52nd St., 212-752-1495; la-grenouille.com Le Périgord - Long regarded as one of New York’s superb old-school French dining rooms, this refined, luxurious gem is one of the longest-running four-star operations under the same management. The menu blends classical French technique with a lighter contemporary touch, natural flavors, sauces and spices, and high-quality produce. Jacket and tie required. 405 E. 52nd St., 212-755-6244; leperigord.com The Modern at MoMA - As sleek, elegant, and contemporary as the MoMA that houses it, The Modern features original French-American cuisine by chef Gabriel Kreuther. Enjoy fine dining in the main room—overlooking the sculpture garden and visible from the street through a long glass wall—or a more casual menu at the curved marble bar in the Bar Room. Operated by Danny Meyer. 11 W. 53rd St., 212-333-1220; themodernnyc.com Nice Matin - With warm colors, chic light fixtures, and plush chairs, this gorgeous space is lively, yet still conducive to easy conversation. The wine list and the cocktails are imaginative. 201 W. 79th St., 212-873-6423; nicematinnyc.com

GREEK Ammos Estiatorio - Using only the freshest seafood and ingredients imported from the Mediterranean, the seasonal menu blends traditional Greek cuisine with innovative culinary techniques, complemented by an extensive wine list. 52 Vanderbilt Ave. (45th St.), 212-922-9999; ammosnewyork.com Estiatorio Milos - This New York cousin to Montreal’s famed Milos eatery specializes in Greek seafood and seasonal vegetables in a minimalist setting. From a display of fresh fish on ice flown in daily from all over the world, and top-quality vegetables and fruits, diners pick out a meal, which is weighed and then charcoal-grilled and brought to the table. 125 W. 55th St., 212-245-7400; milos.ca Molyvos - Ouzo flows freely and the baklava is piled high at this authentic Greek spot. A tavern-like atmosphere (including the boisterous crowds) doesn’t prepare you for the food to come: don’t leave without trying the grilled baby octopus or cabbage doulmades, and moussaka. There’s a meze menu for those who just want small bites and a comprehensive Greek wine list. 871 Seventh Ave. (55-56 Sts.), 212-582-7500; molyvos.com

Indian

Orsay - This Upper East Side brasserie features a classic Art Nouveau interior, using rich woods, traditional moldings, and mirrors. The menu marries modern French and classic fare with an award-winning wine list dominated by French and American varietals. 1057 Lexington Ave. (75th St.), 212-517-6400; orsayrestaurant.com

Tabla - Walk up the impressive staircase to Danny Meyer’s Tabla, which combines classic American dishes with pungent Indian spices. For a downscale version, head downstairs to its less expensive sister restaurant, Bread Bar at Tabla. 11 Madison Ave. (25th St.), 212-889-0667; tablany.com

Pastis - An unassuming restaurant enjoyed by everyday people and movers and shakers. The mood of bohemian chic is carried out in the décor, and Executive Chefs Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson and Chef de Cuisine Pascal Le Seac’h prepare a menu that combines hearty Provençal dishes with moderately priced bistro fare. 9 Ninth Ave. (Little W. 12th St.), 212-929-4844; pastisny.com

Tamarind - Authentic Indian cuisine, with a menu that include excellent vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, incredible spices, assorted handmade Indian breads, tandoori delights from their clay oven, and lamb, goat, beef, shrimp, and chicken entrées. 41 E. 22nd St., 212-674-7400; tamarindnyc.com

Triomphe - Two dining rooms, with only 20 tables between them, offer a warm and comfortable atmosphere, both stylish and subtle, and a diverse menu of French American cuisine with an international flair. Iroquois Hotel, 49 W. 44th St., 212-453-4233; triomphe-newyork.com

Utsav Festive Indian Cuisine - With an elegant décor, this upscale Indian restaurant in the heart of Times Square provides relaxed dining in a spacious and serene setting. Their extensive lunch buffet and pre and post theatre prix fixe dinner will please carnivores and vegetarians alike. 1185 Sixth Ave. (enter at 46th St. btw. Sixth & Seventh Aves.), 212-575-2525; utsavny.com

James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef and restaurateur David Burke serves his signature whimsical, modern American cuisine at David Burke Townhouse, the Upper East Side eatery that made him famous. A redesign last fall brought changes, including a striking, backlit salt wall, a playful dungeon door resembling a classic castle door complete with skeleton keys, as well as new fabrics, carpet and wall coverings, and a stunning mahogany wine display that can hold over 300 bottles. The menu includes signature dishes from Burke’s career—such as Sea Scallops “Benedict” and Lobster Steak—while continuing to offer the inventive dishes that have made Townhouse a neighborhood fixture since 2003. A meat-carving station provides drama as whole chicken, rack of lamb and porterhouse steak are carved and presented tableside. Burke and Executive Chef Sylvain Delpique work closely to create dishes including Pretzel Crusted Crabcake with Tomato Orange Chutney and Poppy Seed Honey, “Bronx” Style Filet Mignon of Veal & Veal Cheek with Pea Purée and Pistachio “Candy,” and of course his Famous Cheesecake Lollipop Tree. There’s also a $24.07 three-course lunch menu. Sundays are double the fun with brunch and Chicken Little Dinners. Start with Sunday Brunch—one of the Zagat’s top 25 brunches in New York City—and then stop back in for the $35 three-course Chicken Little Sunday Dinner featuring your very own “Angry Chicken Salad” to take home for Monday’s Lunch. Either way you slice it, you’re sure to leave with your tummy full and your heart content. David Burke’s tasty empire: David Burke Townhouse (133 E. 61st St., 212-813-2121; davidburketownhouse.com); David Burke @ Bloomingdale’s (150 E. 59th St., 212-705-3800; burkeinthebox.com) and Fishtail (135 E. 62nd St., 212-754-1300; fishtaildb.com).

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INTERNATIONAL and ECLECTIC Asia de Cuba - Asia de Cuba’s centerpiece is a marble communal table for 36, enhanced by an enormous photo light box with an image of a waterfall above. Against a stunning, theatrical backdrop—designed by the famed Philippe Starck—diners indulge in the unique flavors of a culinary fusion between Asian and Latin cuisine. The Morgan Hotel, 237 Madison Ave. (37th-38th Sts.), 212-726-7755; chinagrillmanagement.com

Esca - Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich have created yet another successful venture with this popular West Side seafood trattoria. Culinary delights include “crudo,” raw fish seasoned with a touch of olive oil and lemon, and served with sea beans and radish. A sensational wine list rounds out the experience. 402 W. 43rd St., 212-564-7272; esca-nyc.com Insieme - This Italian restaurant from Marco

Canora, the man behind Hearth, has earned its Michelin star with perfectly prepared, uncomplicated dishes and sincere hospitality. The old and new worlds meet here in all areas, from the menu and wine, to the service and design. The Michelangelo Hotel, 777 Seventh Ave. (51st St.), 212-582-1310; restaurantinsieme.com Maialino - A Roman-style trattoria from Danny Meyer’s award-winning Union Square Hospitality

Double Crown - The stunning atmosphere here evokes the colonial British East of the 19th century, while the eclectic menu features dishes such as pork rillette, venison Wellington, and wild boar. The brunch, offered Sat. and Sun. 10am-3:30pm, is also very popular among the Village denizens. 316 Bowery (Bleecker St.), 212-254-0350; doublecrown-nyc.com The Spotted Pig - Chef and co-owner April Bloomfield presides over this West Village favorite’s eclectic menu of seasonal British and Italian fare, which uses local ingredients whenever possible. Kitchen open until 2am nightly. 314 W. 11th St., 212-620-0393; thespottedpig.com Wallsé - Austrian cuisine and wild game are the order of the day here, at chef Kurt Gutenbrunner’s elegant restaurant that has quickly become a favorite among NYC foodies and West Villagers. Menu favorites include the veal goulash, and other Austrian favorites such as tafelspitz and Wiener schnitzel. 344 W. 11th St., 212-352-2300; wallserestaurant.com

ITALIAN Abboccato - This 75-seat restaurant serves true and time-honored Italian recipes elevated through the talent and techniques of the chefs, and features a multitude of Italian products and ingredients. Leading the culinary charge is chef partner Jim Botsacos. 136 W. 55th St. (Sixth Ave.), 212-265-4000; abboccato.com Bice Ristorante - Combining traditional and new trends in Northern Italian cuisine in an elegantcasual atmosphere, Bice Ristorante caters to a knowledgeable clientele seeking out superior versions of beloved Italian fare utilizing top-of-the-line ingredients, refined dishes, light-touch cooking, seamless service, and, most of all, consistency. Top dishes include tagliolini lobster, ravioli massala, osso buco, and papardelle al telefono, just to name a few. And don’t miss out on dessert—the tiramisu della Bice is one of the best in the city. 7 E. 54th St. (MadisonFifth Aves.), 212-688-1999; bicenewyork.com ’Cesca - ’Cesca joins the ranks of its older sibling, Ouest, serving hearty, rustic Italian cuisine with an open kitchen. After imbibing a cocktail at the generously appointed bar, head to the charming, country dining room in the back, outfitted with oak tables and painted in warm yellow tones. 164 W. 75th St., 212-787-6300; cescanyc.com

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DININGNEWYORK Group (their first new restaurant since 2005), serving Roman-style cooking from Executive Chef Nick Anderer. Gramercy Park Hotel, 2 Lexington Ave. (21st St.), 212-777-2410; gramercyparkhotel.com Marea - Chef Michael White and restaurateur Chris Cannon’s third venture offers a fresh interpretation of Italian coastal cuisine, with dishes such as Santa Barbara sea urchin with lardo, lobster with burrata, eggplant funghetto and seaweed-marinated east coast halibut and sea scallops with endive and bagna cauda. 240 Central Park S. (Broadway), 212-582-5100; marea-nyc.com MODA - A chic, sophisticated eatery for rustic Italian fare, MODA, Italian for “style,” offers a sophisticated yet friendly dining atmosphere, and an outdoor patio that lies beneath a three-story glass canopy overlooking 52nd Street. Flatotel, 135 W. 52nd St., 212-887-9880; flatotel.com

One of the original men of meat, Ben Benson has been in the restaurant game since the late 1960s and running his eponymous Steak House since 1982. At Ben Benson’s, the steaks are expertly prepared, using only the freshest market ingredients, but what really sets the restaurant apart is the menu: “We’ve got five different veal dishes, four different chicken dishes, and six seafood dishes,” says Benson of his own menu. A sentiment that Esquire echoed: “Ben Benson’s menu has range,” like wild game, pork chops with homemade applesauce, and triple lamb chops that round out the meat spectrum, and a bevy of salads, sides and seafood – a menu that’s perfect for first timers and regulars alike. 123 W. 52nd St., 212-581-8888; benbensons.com

Otto Enoteca and Pizzeria - Otto offers a world of pizza, cooked on a griddle instead of in an oven, that ranges from traditional margheritas to more creative interpretations, like pizza topped with cured salt pork and fresh rosemary. Sample one of the bruschettas, antipasti, cheeses or delectable appetizers that include eggplant caponata or chickpea fritters. Selecting a wine shouldn’t be a problem with Otto’s list of nearly 500 Italian labels. 1 Fifth Ave. (8th St.), 212-995-9559; ottopizzeria.com Patsy’s - Considered one of the greatest attractions in the Theatre District, renowned for its celebrity clientele (it was Frank Sinatra’s favorite), this landmark has been family-run since 1944. The Neapolitan cuisine is heavenly, including succulent veal chops Siciliano, spicy lobster fra diavolo, savory calamari stuffed with seafood, and much more. A “must go” New York favorite. 236 W. 56th St., 212-247-3491; patsys.com Remi - Remi, created by renowned designer Adam D. Tihany, combines the rich traditions of Venetian cuisine with the romance and elegance of Venetian design and architecture in an updated and innovative style. Often rated among the top Italian restaurants in NYC, if not the entire U.S. 145 W. 53rd St., 212-581-4242; remi-ny.com Salute! - This Murray Hill staple has been attracting a steady stream of clientele with its mix of sleek sophistication and Italian/Mediterranean cuisine for over a decade, merging old-world tradition with contemporary flair. The menu features authentic homemade pastas, savory seafood, brickoven pizzas, and healthy gourmet delights. 270 Madison Ave. (39th St.), 212-213-3440; salutenyc.com SD26 Restaurant & WineBar - Tony May of San Domenico fame (which closed in 2008) has returned to the contemporary-Italian scene with this theatrical Flatiron space and a modern, American spin on Mediterranean food and wine. 19 E. 26th St., 212-265-5959; sd26ny.com

Japanese and Sushi

The romance and elegance of Venetian design meets the rich tradition of Northern Italian cuisine at Remi. Dining here is a bit like embarking on a luxury cruise through Venice, with a stunning mural of a grand canal, flying buttress archways, Brazilian cherry-striped floors, and glass chandeliers. The endless menu features a wide variety of antipasti and salads, homemade pastas, and classic signature dishes like the Spaghetti Remi, prepared al dente with oven-dried tomatoes, garlic and hot pepper and Venetian-style calf liver sauteed with onions and served on polenta. 145 W. 53rd St., 212-581-4242 (212-757-7610 for private parties); remi-ny.com

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Blue Ribbon Sushi - Featuring some of the freshest fish this side of Tokyo, served in a lovely wood-and-mural setting. For those who don’t relish the sushi and sashimi or raw bar, a wide variety of cooked entrées are also available. No reser­vations. 97 Sullivan St. (Spring-Prince Sts.), 212-343-0404; blueribbonrestaurants.com BondSt Sushi - This high-end Japanese restaurant focuses on the finest and freshest delicacies of the sea. They boast one of the most extensive sake menus in the city, along with their own saketinis, available in the cozy, candle-lit lounge downstairs, or more formal dining areas upstairs. 6 Bond St. (Broadway-Lafayette St.), 212-777-2500; bondstrestaurant.com Hakubai - The only branch of Japan’s renowned ancient Nadaman restaurant, and one of the very few in the U.S. serving Kaiseki, which has its roots in Zen Buddhism and the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Both the dishes and food change with the seasons. The elegant, comfortable Tatami rooms feature perfect presentation and flawless service. Kitano Hotel, 66 Park Ave. (38th St.), 212-885-7111; kitano.com/hakubai.html

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Inakaya - The first New York City outpost of the renowned 39-year-old eatery in Roppongi, Tokyo. A traditional robatayaki restaurant, Inakaya features Japanese barbecue cooked right in front of you by chefs that shuttle the dishes at you via long wooden paddles. Everything is larger than life and theatrical, from the shouts that greet you when you enter to the enormous dining bar to the elaborate costumes worn by the waiters. 231 W. 40th St., 212-354-2195; inakayany.com

linen, crystal, silver, and china. 35 W. 64th St., 212-724-8585; picholinenyc.com

Mexican/Tex-Mex El Parador Café - The oldest—and one of the most authentic—Mexican restaurants in New York City. Recommended dishes include the mole poblano, Mexico’s national dish with a half-chickn

stewed in a complex, multi-layered sauce with over 24 ingredients. Lauded for having the best margaritas by New York Press, the best ceviche by The New York Times, and named the city’s number one Mexican restaurant in New York City by Open Table diners. 325 E. 34th St., 212-679-6812; elparadorcafe.com Rosa Mexicano - Upscale Mexican cuisine in a stylish and festive atmosphere. The David

Masa - This four-star restaurant is making waves among sushi aficionados. Evoking the quiet aura of a rare temple, the décor is every bit as simple and elegant as the fish, prepared with painstaking care by the staff. Sit at the 27-foot-long sushi bar, where you can watch owner Masa Takayama at work. Time Warner Center, 10 Columbus Circle (60th St.), 4th Floor, 212-823-9800; masanyc.com Nobu - Celebrated chef Nobu Matsuhisa dazzles with his daring cuisine that fuses influences from Tokyo to Peru in partnership with restaurateur Drew Nieporent and actor Robert De Niro. David Rockwell’s lovely Japanese countryside setting showcases yellowtail tuna tartare, monkfish liver pate, both served with caviar, squid “pasta” with asparagus, butter and garlic or New Style Sashimi, seared in garlic, ginger, sesame seeds and scallions. 105 Hudson St. (Franklin St.), 212-334-4445; myriadrestaurantgroup.com Riingo - The perfect balance of American comfort and Japanese minimalism is achieved at this contemporary fusion restaurant. A stark white sushi bar complements the gray marble liquor bar and dark woodwork throughout the room, bathed in warm lighting and accented with tall, lavish plants. The Alex Hotel, 205 E. 45th St., 212-867-4200; riingo.com Sushi of Gari - Sushi chef Masatoshi “Gari” Sugio opened his first restaurant on the Upper East Side in 1997, featuring his own original sauces and toppings that bring out “the true taste of sushi”—honed over several years working as a chef in Tokyo and New York City. 402 E. 78th St., 212-517-5340; 370 Columbus Ave. (77th-78th Sts.), 212-362-4816; 347 W. 46th St., 212-957-0046; sushiofgari.com

Mediterranean Isabella’s - This Upper West Side mainstay, across from the American Museum of Natural History, serves Mediterranean-style fare. The ambiance is sunny and casual, with its split-level dining room, rattan chairs, and popular outdoor patio. 359 Columbus Ave. (77th St.), 212-724-2100; brguestrestaurants.com Picholine - Acclaimed chef/restaurateur Terrance Brennan takes a modern approach to Mediterranean cooking, expertly layered with French, Italian, and Spanish influences. Enjoy the casually elegant succession of dining rooms, with soaring boysenberry velvet curtains, purple leather and grey mohair banquettes, contemporary artwork, and the restaurant’s customary fine

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Rockwell-designed Lincoln Center space features a 30-foot cascading waterwall that spans both levels, complete with 200 miniature cliff divers. Three locations: 61 Columbus Ave. (62nd St.), 212-977-7700; 1063 First Ave. (58th St.), 212-753-7407; 9 E. 18th St., 212-533-3350; rosamexicano.com

PAN LATIN Agua Dulce ­- Sexy and sophisticated, featuring lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, and an exceptional late-night meal at 3am. Highlights include organic salmon citrus ceviche, skirt steak, grilled chicken with saffron scented Valencia rice and chorizo, smoked tea braised short rib, yellowfin tuna with minted lychee salsita, and house-made guacamole. 802 Ninth Ave. (53rd-54th Sts.), 212-262-1299; aguadulceny.com

SCANDINAVIAN Aquavit - Marcus Samuelsson’s modern Scandinavian establishment reflects the best of minimalist mid-century Scandinavian design with its pale wood tones, soft indirect lighting, and unique tableware. A large selection of aquavits—potato vodka infused with fruits or spices—is available, along with cocktails inspired by the region. 65 E. 55th St., 212-307-7311; aquavit.org

Seafood Blue Water Grill - This majestic bank redux is just the thing for those seeking fresh raw-bar delicacies and entrées. 31 Union Square West (16th St.), 212-675-9500; brguestrestaurants.com Fishtail - David Burke’s newest NYC addition, Fishtail, opened in December 2008 and has diners lining up for his signature spin on upscale seafood. Shortly after its opening, Burke was inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America. 135 E. 62nd St., 212-754-1300; fishtaildb.com Le Bernardin - Exquisite, ultra-fresh seafood served with impeccable service in an elegant venue has earned Le Bernardin a four-star rating since it opened in 1986. Veteran chef Eric Ripert surprises diners with Asian accents throughout his menus, featuring fish that is “almost raw” or “lightly cooked.” The Equitable Building, 155 W. 51st St., 212-554-1515; le-bernardin.com Oceana - Complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, chef’s table, and outdoor dining, Oceana features a raw bar and the innovative seafood cuisine of executive chef Ben Pollinger, with fresh, whole fish, prime meats, naturally raised fowl, and artful desserts. 120 W. 49th St., 212-759-5941; oceanarestaurant.com

Westchester County’s Doral Arrowwood hotel not only features 114 acres of rolling hills, open meadows, ponds, and a nine-hole, Robert von Hagge-designed golf course, but also three excellent dining options. You can dine al fresco at Mulligan’s Outdoor Cafe, which overlooks the ninth green and features salads, light dishes, and grilled specialties. The quintessential pub experience is offered at The PUB (above) with a wrap-around bar and fireplace as well as 14 high-definition flat-screen TVs, pool tables, dartboards, and a dance floor. The light, airy Atrium serves buffet-style lunches and à la carte dinners amid spectacular views through floor-to-ceiling windows, an award-winning brunch, and the Saturday Night Buffet Dinner Dance. 975 Anderson Hills Road, Rye Brook, NY, 914-939-5500; doralarrowwood.com

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Southwestern Mesa Grill - Chef Bobby Flay serves South­western cuisine in a whimsical setting accented in shades of Sutter’s gold, adobe terra cotta, and sage green, and boasting a view of the kitchen. Dining room people-watch­ing is just as much fun, and the mood is relaxed and friendly. 102 Fifth Ave. (15th-16th Sts.), 212-807-7400; mesagrill.com

Steakhouses Ben Benson’s Steak House - This classic American steakhouse is a true, one-of-a-kind New York City cultural descendant of its authentic 19th-century ancestors, independently owned by the hands-on Ben Benson. It serves only USDA prime dry-aged meats, beef, veal and lamb, seasonal game and premium-grade seafood and poultry, prepared simply and perfectly and offered in substantial servings. Res­ervations recommended. Rockefeller Center, 123 W. 52nd St., 212-581-8888; benbensons.com

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Ben & Jack’s Steak House - Ben & Jack’s serves generous portions of steakhouse favorites to a very satisfied clientele. Enjoy the restaurant’s signature Porterhouse for one, two, three or four, fresh seafood, mouthwatering side dishes and exquisite desserts. 255 Fifth Ave. (28th-29th Sts.), 212-532-7600; 219 E. 44th St., 212-682-5678; benandjackssteakhouse.com Benjamin Steakhouse - Peter Luger alumni Benjamin Prelvukaj and chef Arturo McLeod join forces to create an opulent steakhouse in the centuryold Chemist Club building. Six cuts of dry-aged beef are available, from 36-ounce porterhouses to top sirloins to rib eyes to succulent filet mignon. 52 E. 41st St., 212-297-9177; benjaminsteakhouse.com Bull and Bear - A swank Regency-style club, the Bull and Bear serves hearty fare in the form of succulent steaks (the only certified Angus Beef Prime in the city), and seafood. The elaborate and celebrated mahogany bar is one of the city’s most popular watering holes. The Waldorf=Astoria, 570 Lexington Ave. (50th St.), 212-355-3000; bullandbearsteakhouse.com The Capital Grille - The capital of theater, music, literature, and adventure boasts yet another gem: The Capital Grille. Known for delicious dry-aged steaks, chops, fresh seafood, and an award-winning wine list in a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. 3 locations, including the Trylon Towers of the exquisite Chrysler Center. 120 W. 51st St., 212-246-0154; 120 Broadway (Wall St.), 212-374-1811; 155 E. 42nd St., 212-953-2000; thecapitalgrille.com Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House - This expansive steak house’s soaring, two-story-high windows offer a spectacular view of Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center and Broadway’s theatres are just a block or two away. The menu features fresh USDA aged prime beef shipped from the Midwest twice a week. Lobster, fish, lamb, osso buco, and veal chops receive equal billing . 49th St. & Sixth Ave., 212-575-5129; delfriscos.com Quality Meats - Chef Craig Koketsu creates modern interpretations of familiar dishes and flavor combinations, resulting in unique tastes, innovative presentations, and a distinctive style. 57 W. 58th St., 212-371-7777; qualitymeatsnyc.com Rothmann’s Steakhouse & Grill - Near the Theatre District, Rothmann’s Steakhouse & Grill has been serving New Yorkers, celebrities, and visitors the finest quality prime dry aged beef, delicious chicken, and mouthwatering seafood for over 100 years. The beautiful space and attentive staff make it ideal, whether it’s for a business lunch, a romantic dinner for two, or celebrating a special occasion. 3 E. 54th St., 212-319-5500; rothmannssteakhouse.com Smith & Wollensky - This celebrated steakhouse is recognized for its healthy portions, seasoned service staff and elegant interior with turn-ofthe-century design elements. Steaks take center stage, including juicy double sirloin, chateau­briand for two, filet mignon, filet au poivre, and sliced steak Wollensky, all of which have been dry-aged in-house for 28 days. 797 Third Ave. (49th St.), 212-753-1530; smithandwollensky.com Uncle Jack’s Steakhouse - Pleasing the most discerning of steak lovers, the USDA prime steaks here—all aged for at least 21 days—include New York strip, filet mignon and a special Kobe beef, hand-massaged with sake. For the seafood lover, there are crab cakes, Australian lobster tails, a seafood platter, and more. 440 Ninth Ave. (34th-35th Sts.), 212-244-0005; 44 W. 56th St., 212-245-1550; 39-40 Bell Blvd., Bayside, Queens, 718-229-1100; unclejacks.com

VEGETARIAN Pure Food and Wine - New York’s premier raw-foods restaurant, utilizing organic and seasonal fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to create a unique, award-winning culinary experience. Open daily at 5:30pm. 54 Irving Pl. (17th St.), 212-477-1010; purefoodandwine.com

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THEINTERVIEW

Charlie Palmer

135 West 42nd Street • 212-319-1660 • charliepalmer.com/Properties/Aureole/

With 13 restaurants, four cookbooks, two wine shops, hotels and even a store for tabletop and home ware, Aureole’s busy chef/owner talks about his invigorating life.

Bill Milne

Dan Walbridge

By Kristopher Carpenter

[ Aureole’s Bar Room; Charlie Palmer and a signature dish: Chilled Peekytoe Crab, Citrus, Sesame Seed Oil, Anise Hyssop, Chive Vinaigrette ]

C

Eric Laignel

harlie Palmer has opened 13 restaurants across the country in 20 years, and when asked how the journey has been, Palmer answers simply, “It’s been invigorating; I don’t get tired.” This may come as a surprise, because just reading his resume would tire the common man - but Palmer is, of course, anything but common. In 1988, after spending three lauded years as the Executive Chef at the River Café on the Brooklyn side of New York Harbor, Palmer opened Aureole on the Upper East Side of Manhattan - his first restaurant as a chef/owner. He would hone his craft there for nearly a decade, garnering a three-star New York Times review in 1991 and several other kudos, including a James Beard Award for Best Chef New York in 1997. It must have been around this time that the entrepreneur trapped inside his chef’s outfit broke free and began to spread fantastic “progressive American” cuisine across the land. Hurricane Palmer started small, with Astra, a beautiful but subtle event space and café here in Manhattan on 3rd Avenue. Then, two years later, Palmer opened Aureole Las Vegas in 1999, and since he was already there, he opened Charlie Palmer Steak in Vegas the same year. Métrazur opened in Grand Central Terminal in 2000 and between then and now Palmer has opened seven more restaurants, a hotel, two wine shops, written four cookbooks, and re-located his NYC flagship Aureole to One Bryant Park in 2009. Aureole New York is “his soul” as Palmer says himself, and although he’s usually in the kitchen, he’s often seen by the far corner of the bar, usually smiling and cracking jokes about the speed at which other restaurateurs move.

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Q. World-class restaurants, wine shops, hotels, I hear you make furniture (which may be hearsay). Is there anything that you want to do that you haven’t been able to do yet? Hundreds of things, I just haven’t had enough time to do them, yet. I’ve started to make my own wine; I love the wine business from the vineyards to the people. One of my first experiences with food was in my family’s vegetable garden, so the nuances, all of the variables that go into making great wine, are interesting to me from an agrarian standpoint and a chef’s perspective, but also the business aspect of making and selling wine. I have the wine shops in Dallas and Costa Mesa and I hope to expand on those. Q. What was it like moving a flagship restaurant from the Upper East Side to a drastically different neighborhood, in the heart of midtown? Obviously, I felt like One Bryant Park offered the ideal environment; it’s new and it’s different but that fit the ideal that Aureole was founded upon–constantly striving for better products and

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new ideas. The view of 42nd Street’s evolving landscape sparked something new for me and I feel like we built our ideal restaurant space with a dream kitchen, larger wine storage, and more diverse dining rooms. Combined with our talent in the kitchen and dining room, this Aureole is designed to last another 20 years. Q. What was the biggest obstacle in moving? Packing and unpacking all the wine. It may sound funny, but we have over 14,000 bottles on premise; and besides the sheer volume and weight, we obviously had to be pretty careful with them. It required a lot of coordinated work among the team, but we set up in a little production line down the stairs in the townhouse and had all the cases moved in just one day. Q. Among all of these accomplishments, is there one that you’re most proud of? My four kids. I’ve been very blessed with a loving home. When we’re not watching or playing football, we cook together and they help out with events like Pigs & Pinot. They also keep tabs on my Facebook and Twitter pages now.

8/16/10 6:20:04 PM


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