Resident Magazine Winter 2021 Issue

RESIDENT NEW YORK

THE WINTER ISSUE

MICHAEL FISCHER

ON A MISSION TO MAKE MANHATTAN SAFER

new york - madison avenue

212.794.4500

dennisbasso.com

HANDMADE IN NE W YORK CITY

C L E A N. H E A L T H Y. E F F E C T I V E. S K I N C A R E.

D I S COV E R T H E S K I N C A R E YO U ’ V E B E E N WA I T I N G F O R .

SHOP NOW w w w. i m m u n o c o l o g i e . c o m

RESIDENT NEW YORK

Catskill Mountain

RETREAT 65 Acres of Rural Beauty and a Home to Match i

THE WINTER ISSUE

MICHAEL FISCHER

ON A MISSION TO MAKE MANHATTAN SAFER

Michael Fischer Jan 2021 Cover.indd 1

1/19/21 2:57 PM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Julie Sagoskin LIFESTYLE EDITOR Norah Bradford CULTURE EDITOR R. Couri Hay SOCIAL COLUMNIST Clara Morgan EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Simon Gusev FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS W.A. Muller, Lauren Bens, Thomas Lau , Betty Taylor, George Wayne, Hailey O’Connor, Elizabeth Elston, Cecille Langtry, Ann Grenier, Lillian Langtry PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Christopher A. Pape

Boutique Resort Hotel on Seneca Lake Wine Trail in Beautiful Geneva, N.Y.

ART DIRECTOR Paul Crawford

Surrounded on manicured property this cut stone front entrance will welcome you to the ���� sq. ft of luxury, featuring 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, � home office spaces, a music room, gourmet kitchen, dazzling formal dining room, and a lovely fireplace graces the living room. Carriage house, inground pool, water wheel, a pavillion and gazebo. Much more to see

email Gailmv��5�@aol. com or call 8�5-���-�553 Gail M Vesely NYS Lic, Real Estate Broker Lucille Hand Real Estate ��� Continental Rd Napanoch, NY ����8 (cell) 8�5-���-�553

PHOTOGRAPHERS Fumihiko Sugino, Patrick McMullan

One of the world’s most beautiful inns.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHER Steve Sands

Bride’s

SENIOR SALES MANAGER Scott Pauker ADVERTISING MANAGER Lance Bryce DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Damien James MANAGING PARTNERS Adam Pierce, Don Winter

RESIDENT IS PUBLISHED TWELVE TIMES ANNUALLY. HAMPTONS RESIDENT IS PUBLISHED FOUR TIMES ANNUALLY BY METRO RESIDENT. COPYRIGHT 2016 BY RESIDENT MAGAZINE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION OF ANY MATERIAL FROM THIS ISSUE EXPRESSLY FORBIDDEN WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER. UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS ARE WELCOME ON AN EXCLUSIVE BASIS, BUT MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A SELF-ADDRESSED STAMPED ENVELOPE. REASONABLE CARE IN HANDLING MANUSCRIPTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS WILL BE TAKEN, BUT RESIDENT MAGAZINE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR UNSOLICITED MATERIALS SUBMITTED. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. *THIS ISSUE FEATURES PAID FOR SPONSORED CONTENT AND COVERS PROVIDED BY

The food is extraordinarily good!

Bon Appetit

WINTER GETAWAY PACKAGES 315.789.7190 www.genevaonthelake.com

I

t’s the New Year – one that couldn’t come fast enough – and we are here to help you ring in 2021 with our top trending wellness trends and winter beauty makeup tricks. What else can we all use more of this year? Getaways – and the best part is, you don’t have to go far to enjoy stylish staycations, boutique hotels and other posh properties which are just a short driving distance from New York City. From one of the hottest new hotels in New Hope, Pennsylvania to a winter wonderland in the Catskills, you can really get away from it all.

EDITOR’S NOTE

This month we spoke with Michael Fischer, the president of the Central Park Civic Association.

Fischer, a Central Park South resident, was acutely aware of the challenges facing this unique part of Manhattan and wanted to give a voice to residents in the area. While he treasures his close proximity to the park, Michael knew there were ways to make things better. The organization, which was formed with community buy-in, has grown exponentially and now includes thousands of members. Active members, who reside in the Upper West Side, Upper East Side and Midtown, came together to realize that they all shared a neighbor in Central Park. Their goal? To keep the area a beautifully maintained, safe and accommodating community. After all, Michael

wants everyone to enjoy the area as much as he does.

The Central Park Civic Association has become an outspoken citywide leader on the most pertinent issues currently impacting the Central Park area and the city at large. They are especially vocal about the homeless situation, and are hoping to find new ways to help their neighbors – and the city.

While indoor dining may currently be suspended, you can find some of our favorite foodie destinations for outdoor and takeout options. We even bring you a unique culinary concept called CookUnity, the first ever chef-to-consumer meal subscription platform which serves a seasonal variety of ready-to-eat meals, including those from famed local chefs. With so many restaurants suffering, one businessman and entrepreneur, Dennis Cunningham, is helping to save the hospitality industry with his $25 million cocktail giveaway in partnership with iHeart Radio.

Just download Dennis’ AirTab app to learn more about how you can take part, as well as the ways you can experience restaurants in a whole new communityfocused and delicious way.

However and wherever you spend the season, just make sure to take care of the most important thing this New Year – you!

Julie Sagoskin - Editor in Chief julies@resident.com

NEW YORK: 462 West Broadway New York, NY 10012 212.475.4524 BERLIN: BAUMBACHSTRAßE 17 13189 BERLIN, GERMANY +49.30.459.76861 bergesgallery.com

CONTENTS BUZZ 14

social safari:

BEAUTY 16 glam seamless

18

winter beauty guide

20

lulu liang

WELLNESS 22 big vision

24

dr. steven davidowitz

26

new year new you

28

dr. lisa zdinak

FASHION 30 pink a boo

38

anatomie

40

italeau

42

Michael Fischer

5 4 3Ma di s onAv e , Ne wY or k , NY1 0 0 2 2

ht t p: / / c a r l t onf a . c om/2 1 2 5 9 3 2 8 0 0 ht t ps : / / www. l i nj i e de ng. c om/

LOST

MUSEUM

CONTENTS DINING 50 sola

52

amaranth

54

union sushi nd steak

56 oiji

58

chotto matte

60

the bazaar

FOOD 62

better than milk

64

a dutch masterpiece

66

mikey’s

68

mateo marietti

70

airtab

72

ikraa caviar

ESCAPES 74

novotel miami brickell

76

the dupont circle hotel

78

villa roma

80

the whitby hotel

82

river house at odette’s

84

hard rock atlantic city

LIVING 90

modular closets

92

le lustre

PROFILE 94

tiffany Sorya

96

cory ahlawat

SOCIAL 98

new york society scene

Welcome.

Escape to your own private country estate at The Lodge at Woodloch, an all-inclusive destination spa resort just 95 miles from Manhattan.

Reservations: 866.953.8500

thelodgeatwoodloch.com

buzz

SOCIAL SAFARI

THE WINTER SEASON

Met Costume Institute, Dior, Chanel, Charles James, Hope Luncheon, Jane Pauley Miami Art Week, Libbie Mugrabi, Basquiat, Linjie Deng, David Datuna & Cattelan

By R. Couri Hay with photo contributions by Patrick McMullan Wonder Woman 1984: Gal Gadot reprises her role as Wonder Woman in Wonder Woman 1984, which you can watch on HBO Max. Unfortunately, this is a mediocre sequel to the terrific original. Gadot, who shines despite the disappointing story, admits, “There aren’t enough good roles for strong women. Most of the female characters you see in films Gadot in today are the ‘poor Gal Wonder Woman heartbroken girl.’”

Met Costume Institute: About Time Vogue Editor and Met Costume Institute’s Gala Chair Anna Wintour and the Metropolitan Museum cancelled their flashy Met Gala because of the pandemic. The benefit would have been cochaired by Emma Stone, Lin Manuel-Miranda, and Meryl Streep. The exhibition titled About Time: Fashion and Duration coincides with the Met’s 150th anniversary. The show depicts a disrupted timeline of fashion, from 1870 (when Emma Stone @ the museum was Met Gala 2019 Bridgerton on Netflix: founded) to the The bingeable TV show has a present day, using diverse cast, including a Meghan flashbacks and Markle-inspired character who fast-forwards marries the King and becomes to draw Queen of England. Phoebe surprising Dynevor stars as the “diamond of the comparisons. social season” in London during the To reiterate 1800s. Dynevor said of her role, “Her this sentiment, legendary life was to find a husband. We look writer Virginia Woolf presides at that now as independent women as the ghost narrator of the and think ‘Wow, that’s crazy that exhibition with quotations that was all she could get from from Orlando: A Biography, life.’” her time-travelling saga.

The excerpts are read Regé-Jean Page & Phoebe aloud by Nicole Kidman, Dynevor in Bridgerton Julianne Moore, and Meryl Streep; composer

Philip Glass’s score for the film The Hours serves as the soundtrack. Andrew Bolton, the Curator in Charge explained, “Fashion is indelibly connected to time. It not only reflects the spirit of the times but also changes and develops with the times.” Max Hollein, Director of The Met, Costume elaborated, “The result Institute Gallery is a show that presents a nuanced continuum of fashion over the Museum’s 150year history.” The delay gave Bolton an extra six months to re-curate the show, particularly so as to use a social justice-inspired lens, acknowledging the movements of this past summer and displaying the most up-todate pieces.

nature of fashion, the other its cyclical patterns. Yet, although the garments represent different times, the shape, motif, material, pattern, technique or decoration in each pair echo one another, just as how the past co-exists with the present.

Nearly all the pieces in the exhibition are black, with a bit of white for punctuation, to emphasize the 60 Minutes of Fashion changes in silhouette. The notable The Met’s stunning exception lies in the show’s finale, exhibit is presented where Viktor & Rolf’s white dress of in two rooms, spring/summer 2020 haute couture, one round like a surrounding by shining swatches of clock, the other a what appears to be fabric, mirrors mirrored-infinity the future of fashion: community, room. Each minute collaboration, and sustainability. of the “60 Minutes Among the 125 fashions featured in of Fashion” is the exhibition are designers Dior, delineated with an Chanel, Charles James, Alexander illuminated tick mark, McQueen, Zandra Rhodes, Cristóbal and is paired with Balenciaga, Yves-Saint-Laurent, a garment duo: one Miuccia Prada, and Marc Jacobs. The represents the linear exhibition is open until February 7,

Nicole Kidman in NYC

Peter Thomas Roth in NYC

2021. The timeticketed, sociallydistant show only allows 50 people in the space at a time.

Guests have included Hamish Bowles, Libbie Mugrabi, Peter Thomas Roth, Dr. Marie Hayag, and artist Linjie Deng. The exhibition, made possible by Louis Vuitton and supported

by Condé Nast, represents — quite literally — the fabric of time. metmuseum. org/150

Linjie Deng in NYC

having an advocacy role has been.” also showed works by her favorite Henson, the Empire and Hidden artists, including Basquiat and Figures star, recently launched emerging artist Linjie Deng at a campaign to offer free virtual her event at the Faena. Deng’s therapy services for African Yin-Yang calligraphy piece consists Americans unable to afford it of one set of mutually opposing and during the COVID-19 outbreak. She coexisting words: Freedom & Hope. said, “The more we speak about Deng said, “The canvas is the New depression, the more light York Times from the 2020 COVID we shine on it.” Chuck and the election news cycles. I Scarborough of NBC chose the word pairing because News was the Master this duo evokes some diametric of Ceremonies. The approaches to today’s relevant seminar focused on issues.” Libbie said of the piece, “The Value of Talk titled Freedom & Hope, “That’s Therapy, Especially exactly what I need in my life right Hope Luncheon: Now.” “The COVID now.” linjiedeng.com The Value of Talk pandemic has Therapy underscored the Hope for Depression urgency of our Research Foundation mission to better (HDRF), a non-profit understand and treat founded by Audrey Gruss depression. Over 100 dedicated to advancing million Americans the understanding and now report symptoms treatment of depression, of depression and Libbie Mugrabi & Ashley Judd & “Freedom & Hope” Audrey Gruss @ held its 14th Annual HOPE anxiety,” said Chair

by Linjie Deng Hope Luncheon luncheon. CBS Sunday Morning Audrey Gruss. Dr. host Jane Pauley and actress Taraji Jonathan Javitch, a scientist on the P. Henson, both mental health HDRF Task Force, also revealed Box of Lives advocates, accepted the Hope the non-profit’s upcoming David Datuna, the SmithsonianAward for Depression Advocacy clinical trial for a new category recognized New York-based artist and the Community Ambassador of anti-depressants. Audrey also who made headlines last year for of Hope Award, launched her new perfume Hope eating Italian artist Maurizio respectively. Pauley has Night at Bergdorf Goodman Cattelan’s $120k banana at been open about her with proceeds going to Art Basel, is displaying his battle with bipolar HDRF. hopefordepression.org latest collection, Box of disorder since her Lives, virtually in NYC. The diagnosis and has Miami Art Week new show is inspired by used her platform Art collector Libbie the hopefulness of the to remind those Mugrabi launched her COVID-19 vaccine after with their own new brand “Libbie” during so many months of global David Datuna battles that they art week at the Faena Hotel. suffering, exploring the are not alone. She She said, “I’m starting a range of human emotions confessed, “I can’t say brand where it’s all about healing. associated with the pandemic having bipolar disorder It’s about art, the art of fashion, and the recent distribution of the has been a blessing, but and the art of beauty.” Mugrabi vaccine. The work is sculpted from

multi-colored syringes; the pieces focus on the convergence of art and social consciousness.

“Just a bit over a year ago, during my Hungry Artist performance, I said that art is all about the fun it brings to our lives. As 2020 drew to a close, I wanted to focus on the other aspect of art: it’s all about hope, and hope is the key tool for survival in these challenging times.

We fear syringes, but we also fear death — and now the syringe is the ultimate expression of hope.” This is not the first time Datuna used his art to bring attention to the work of the pharmaceutical industry.

In 2016, Datuna presented Gilead Sciences Inc. with a Life Award in recognition of the pharma giant’s work in fighting Hepatitis C in Georgia. daviddatuna.com Surgeons of Hope Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff chaired the Surgeons of Hope virtual gala. The New York-based charity helps children with congenital heart disease. The funds are used to train local pediatric cardiac teams to aid impoverished children in Latin America. surgeonsofhope.org Jean Shafiroff @ Surgeons of Hope

Dr. Marie Hayag in NYC

resident.com | 15

BEAUTY

GLAM SEAMLESS Extensions For Hair Happiness

By Betty Taylor Photo by Sergio Mannino Studio

I

f you want to get glammed up with an extensive selection of quality hair extensions ranging from clips to halos to tape-ins, Glam Seamless has the best selection. With various styles and colors, plus celebrity clients including J.Lo, founder Alex Cristin is on a mission to make sure you never have a bad hair day again. Let’s just say that you won’t want to wait to get your own straight or wavy weft, especially when you visit their Soho flagship location, featuring a fullservice salon.

16 | resident.com

From the moment you enter this pink hideaway, you will find dozens of dazzling shades and styles.

Browse before getting a blowout at their upstairs salon by one of their expert stylists – don’t worry, there is plenty of social distancing and safety procedures in place. Whether you want tape-ins or a personalized cut or style for your U-Part wig, you will come out with the length, color and texture of your most tantalizing hair dreams. They also sell signature products, including brushes, hair tools, conditioners and other necessities to keep your

extensions looking glam for as long as possible.

It’s not surprise that all Glam Seamless collections are made with double drawn, 100% high-quality Remy human hair that lasts up to a year, as well as being accessible to all budgets. After all, Alex founded the brand based off of her own desire to own desirably long locks. “I saw that there was a need in the market for high-quality hair extensions at affordable prices. Getting extensions eight years ago was much different than it is now and finding them was a problem that I wanted to

Photo Credit: Sergio Mannino Studio

fix. Glam Seamless was built to provide consumers with premium quality hair for every budget. At Glam, we don’t believe in exclusivity and we want to empower all people and budgets worldwide to look and feel more confident with their looks through what we think will be your ultimate accessory—premium-quality hair extensions. Our passion goes beyond just the hair and stretches to our salon professionals and their businesses.

With shed-proof technology damage-free extensions, it’s no surprise that Alex has customers ranging from A-listers to those who have never tried extensions before. The former model learned for herself how difficult it could be to find natural looking extensions without salon prices. Her personal experiences led her to open the Glam Room, which opened in Soho in 2017, New York

City’s first ever extension bar, where their u-part wig and tape-in extensions are available not only for professionals, but can also be styled in-salon at their Glam Room. Their Soho flagship full-service salon specializes in extension installations, removal and restoration, blowouts, event styling and haircuts.

According to Alex, “we have it all – clip-ins, tapeins, halos, wefts, wigs and ponies. Whether you are looking for clip-ins for an easy at-home solution or a pony or bangs, we have pieces for every client’s need. We also offer products for salon and business professionals. Our Glam Seamless professionals are at the top of the game when it comes to hair extensions and have been trained in all extension techniques including tape-in extensions, braided and braidless weft installations, and - soon to launch - keratin bond extensions!”

Aside from helping their own customers get gorgeous hair, Glam Seamless is dedicated to helping other salon businesses grow through partnership tiers and most importantly, educational platforms. In fact, their platform and partnership programs for Glam Seamless salons and stylists can now be found worldwide.

In 2018, they also founded Glam Girls, a nonprofit mentorship program that provides high school girls in low-income areas scholarships, in addition to helping them find their own inner beauty.

With 15 extension collections in stunning shades, styles and lengths, you can achieve salon quality hair seamlessly. glamseamless.com

resident.com | 17

BEAUTY

Beauty Watercolor Eye Tint Flowerbeauty.com

Guinot Summum Serum guinotusa.com MOXIELASH® Happy Kit moxielash.com

WINTER BEAUTY GUIDE

Terra/form SPF 50 Moisturizer Terraformbrands.com

This winter might bring colder temperatures, but your beauty routine can stay hot with these body creams and bronzers all season long

By Julie Sagoskin

Kiss Salon Secrets Nail Art Starter Kit Kissusa.com

Balibody Original Bronzed balibodyco.com

Hempz Pumpkin Spice & Vanilla Chai Body Moisturizer ulta.com

Kiss Impress Press on Manicure Impressmanicure.com

Algenist Collagen Dreams Limited Edition Holiday Kit: GENIUS Liquid Collagen GENIUS Liquid Collagen Hand Cream GENIUS Sleeping Collagen sephora.com

Tammy Fender Celestial Rose Crème tammyfender.com

THE BEST DARN SUPER SOFT STYLING LOTION eeeee

Pillow Soft Curls® is the first ‘fabric softener’ type styling lotion that will leave your curls clothesline fresh & fluffy soft.

Perfect for achieving big, soft, curls.

AVAILABLE AT

MISSJESSIES.COM

BEAUTY

the perfect position to begin democratizing the stigma often associated with the category. Our mission has always been to inspire confidence and empower women to look and feel their best. Transparency is of utmost importance to Luxy Hair. Along with sourcing the hair ethically, all of Luxy’s accessories are made from sustainable and environmentally-friendly materials. Plus, Luxy’s hair extensions are packaged in a recyclable box made with FSC paper and printed with soy ink.

What kind of hair do you use?

Luxy Hair extensions use only the finest quality of 100% Remy human hair, which means that the hair has been carefully sorted after collecting from the hair donor to ensure all the cuticles are of the same length. It is by far the best quality of clip in human hair extensions on the market because of the care that is required and the time it takes to sort the hair so meticulously.

LULU LIANG CEO Of Luxy Hair

By Betty Taylor

L

uxy Hair, based in Toronto, Canada, has some of the most sought-after strands in the luxury hair extension market. Since 2016, the Luxy hair team, led by CEO Lulu Liang, has grown from two to over 20 members. Their ‘mane’ mission is to make luxurious extensions possible through DIY products.

Before

20 | resident.com

After

What makes LUXY hair different than other extension brands?

Luxy Hair was built organically and entirely through social media. Content has always been at the forefront of what Luxy does, how we grow and how we connect and inspire our customers. Luxy’s 4 million+ social followers and 4.2 million annual blog readers uniquely position Luxy Hair to be the first ever hair extension company to be able to take the leap from niche to mass. It is through this growth and dialogue with our community that placed Luxy Hair in

Tell us about the pony collection – how easy is it to use, does it come in different lengths, how many shades?

Introducing our Ponytail Extension was one of our most exciting launches of 2020! It’s now available in 33 shades and comes in 16- and 20-inch lengths. Our Ponytail Extension truly is the most natural looking clip-in ponytail on the market. It’s incredibly simple to use and takes just minutes to apply thanks to its velcro base that wraps around and adheres together to secure the ponytail. You can then use the 2 matching bobby pins included to secure it even tighter to ensure a seamless blend. It pairs perfectly with our new Gravity Defying Hair Ties to help you achieve the full, long and bouncy ponytail of your dreams.

Does the company help with selecting shades, length, etc?

We’re happy to help! You can email, chat or DM us a photo of your hair and we’ll be happy to help you choose your perfect Luxy match.

Can you style your Luxy extensions any way you want?

Since Luxy Hair extensions are made of 100% Remy human hair, they can be straightened, blow-dried, styled and curled to your liking. u

luxyhair.com

Luxury Refuge, for a demanding lifestyle.

TO UNWIND, DE-STRESS, AND BE PAMPERED… •

Immerse yourself in an exclusive sanctuary of tranquility and discover a new standard of relaxation in our Valmont SPA.

•

Offering world-class facial treatments by Valmont, luxurious body treatments and specialized massages designed to release stress and toxins.

•

Providing pampered attention from our experts, you will leave the Spa Valmont for Plaza Athénée feeling better than ever!

Since 1985, Valmont, the luxurious cosmetics brand has been helping women and men master the visible signs of aging, by perpetuating the expertise of Swiss cellular cosmetics with treatments that offer long-lasting results of unparalleled quality as well as infusing art with beauty through the four brand pillars: Valmont skincare, L’Elixir des Glaciers skincare, Storie Veneziane fragrances and Fondation Valmont.

Spa Valmont for Plaza Athénée 37 East 64th Street (between Madison and Park) , New York, NY 10065 Second Floor | 212-606-4675 | spavalmont@evalmont.ca

wellness

BIGVISION

Creating A Community For Those Struggling With Addiction

By Lauren Bens

F

Diamonds, which was started by her father over 50 years ago, is now as devoted to helping other young adults overcome addiction as she is to her diamond business.

year, but I eventually called a meeting of about 50 people who had gathered in my apartment, and I said this is what we’re doing, we have our big idea.”

Eve Goldberg, a native New Yorker who spent most of her life on the Upper West Side and who now resides in Tribeca, thought things such as accidental drug overdoses happened to other people. That was until her own son began experimenting with drugs in high school, a habit which escalated during his freshman year in college. Isaac was just 23 years old when he died of an accidental drug overdose almost seven years ago. Eve, who has worked in her family-owned jewelry business for 35 years, William Goldberg

“Big Vision came out of a very tragic story,” explains Eve. “I never dreamt I would be doing something like this. Isaac was a beautiful human being. When he passed away, I knew I had to do something. There are different types of people. Some people can’t function or get out of bed when something like this happens. While I was sitting shiva, I said to myself, I’m going to do something to make meaning out of his life.

Friends and family were asking what they could do to help, so I took out a big yellow pad and wrote down the names of people. It took me a

That big idea was to help young adults like Isaac live sober lives, something that proved to be a major struggle for him. The most heartbreaking and misunderstood aspect of addiction is that someone can get treatment and seem like they are readjusting back to normal life, only to have a relapse when least expected. “Isaac came out of a sober living facility in New York City and had moved into our apartment. He got a job working as an assistant basketball coach at the United Nations School which he really enjoyed. It took me years to realize that I had done all I could

ollowing the tragic death of her son Isaac to the opioid epidemic, Eve Goldberg had big dreams to keep his legacy alive while helping other young people struggling with addiction, and hence, BIGVISION was born.

22 | resident.com

for him. I couldn’t control the outcome. I finally recognized that this is a disease that has no magic cure. Everybody’s brain is wired differently and there are different paths to recovery, it’s a lifelong process. I had always thought that if you have an addiction problem you come out of rehab and you’re fixed, but in reality, that’s when the work begins. That’s when you have to figure out how to live a life. It’s about creating a new lifestyle where you can find your passions and still have fun like before, but with a clear head.

You can’t just go back to hanging out with your old friends and going to the same places and doing the same things as before.”

Eve believes people suffering from addiction need to find a place to connect with others going through what they are going through, and that is exactly what Big Vision has created – a community. According to Eve, talking about addiction has less of a stigma around it than in previous years, but it still exists. “There wasn’t much conversation about it back then” explains Eve. Celebrities weren’t talking about going to rehab. It’s starting to become more accepted and understood. Isaac felt horrible about it, he felt embarrassed. There are more organizations out there than ever before, and even some sober bars and events are starting to pop up. It’s super helpful to be around other people who understand. There’s even a movement called sober curious. We mask our feelings because life is hard, so it’s all about learning to face your feelings and your life.”

While her son seemed like he was doing great on the outside – he had a psychiatrist and life coach who had both commented on his incredible improvement just the day before he overdosed – he was still struggling internally. Even Isaac’s life coach felt such a loss over what had happened that she questioned what she had done wrong.

Eve came to the realization that her son’s brain had been hijacked. It wasn’t him speaking any longer. Her goal now is to help keep this from happening to any other parent. “We’re helping to save lives because we have people who come and still relapse, but they come back to us afterwards because they feel comfortable coming and saying I relapsed, but I want to come back. Having them come and reach out to us means everything.”

In order to keep everyone’s minds and bodies active, Big Vision typically offers everything from trapeze school to mini golf, ice skating, workouts, yoga, spin class, go karting, knitting and more. “We have a support group called Visionaries which meets twice a month. It’s an alternative support group for anybody who wants to join and they really just talk. Our executive director, a former clinician who is in recovery himself, leads the group. We regularly have trivia night and comedy night, plus health and wellness meditation classes. We try to provide as much content as we can as a way to give them a toolbox to sustain a sober lifestyle “It’s all about healthy eating and exercising and taking care of your body. Isaac especially loved workouts, it’s really a major key to sobriety.”

With the current pandemic, however, things are looking a bit different – but still beneficial – at Big Vision. While isolating at home is very difficult for all of us, especially those struggling with staying sober who are now experiencing high rates of relapse, Big Vision is still offering a sense of community, just virtually. Though it’s not the same as interacting in person, the sobering silver lining of virtual events and meetings is that people can join from all over the world. Their most recent attendees included visitors from California, Dallas, Oregon and beyond. They even host knitting classes twice a month. The virtual world has also allowed the organization to create more content on a more continuous basis.

“We’re giving people hope. So many of those struggling with addiction view living sober as a negative. Someone on our team, Suzanne has become the sober lifestyle poster child. She is constantly posting pictures of herself on social media out and about and having fun without substances. I like to think that if Big Vision had existed before, it might have helped Isaac. I know it helps people because they keep showing up. I see so many changes, especially with confidence levels, in so many of them the more they come. They just start to feel more comfortable in their own skin. A lot of them are so in touch with their feelings. These kids can really express themselves, they’re not like your average 20-year-old. Their stories can be pretty scary sometimes. A lot of them have been previously

incarcerated. After coming to our events, they become so grateful. Most are like a part of the family now.”

When she originally began working on Big Vision with her husband, Neil, and daughter Beatrice, Eve had no idea if her idea would turn into anything. Today, Big Vision keeps getting bigger, and they now have a diverse board of directors and advisory board. Every year in June they host an auction and basketball tournament in honor of Isaac’s birthday. With one in three households affected by addiction, almost everyone knows someone who has or is struggling with this disease. “Big Vision has given me a different passion in my life. I wanted to find something where I could give back and find something meaningful for me, and all in my son’s name. Isaac was such a compassionate young man. He helped so many people and this would have made him so happy. He was so sweet and kind and loving and was always there for his friends. I’m so happy that we can continue with this mission. “It’s like having two full-time jobs but it keeps me busy and I have so much support. It was very difficult in the beginning for my daughter to get involved because she wished she had been able to help Isaac but now she is an integral part of the organization. This is really a sober lifestyle movement that keeps growing. We just hit the fiveyear mark and we’re at a good place. We have people coming to us now and we are forming partnerships with different sober organizations in order to save as many lives as we can. It’s important to educate others and to keep away from substances until the brain is developed. Schools are now offering programs for kids on campus and offering support and mental health checks.

We have to keep these kids mentally healthy and on a good path from a young age.”

If you want to find out how you can help, head to the website. Whether it’s through donations or volunteering, it’s all about spreading the word about how important it is to embrace those struggling with addiction. Eve’s next big idea for Big Vision is to grow the organization to a national level, with community spaces around the country. u bigvision.nyc

resident.com | 23

wellness

DR. STEVEN DAVIDOWITZ

Keeping You Stress Free And Smiling

By Lauren Bens

T

hese might be stressful times, but that doesn’t mean you have to let it affect your smile, and nobody takes smiles more seriously than Dr. Steven Davidowitz of Luxury Dentistry NYC. With the latest technologies and personalized patient care, Dr. Davidowitz does things his own way – and that is sure to keep you smiling.

This New York native, who was born and raised in Brooklyn, was always fascinated with the health field and knew early on that he wanted to help people. While he had first planned on attending medical school and had even gotten into NYU prior to graduating from Baruch College, Dr. Davidowitz eventually realized he wanted to follow in his cosmetic dentist father’s footsteps. He wound up receiving his doctor of dental surgery degree from the New York University College of Dentistry and then completed fellowship training in implant surgery and restorative implant dentistry at NYU. With both the drive to be a dentist and a hidden artistic side which he knew would be able to bloom in the cosmetic dentistry field, Dr. Davidowitz had a vision to take things to a new level.

The result? A space that makes great smiles and instantly adds a smile to patients’ faces.

24 | resident.com

“The office that I wanted to create coming out of dental school was something I hadn’t seen before. I got into numerous programs for cosmetics while at NYU but they always focused on just fixing teeth. I wanted to merge beauty and wellness with dental health by introducing additional cosmetic procedures to really frame the smile while at the same time beautifying the smile.”

With a relaxing spa-like environment, plenty of pampering and even swag bags filled with goodies, Dr. Davidowitz’s upscale Upper East Side office keeps his patients feeling calm, even when he’s working on their uppers. In order to continuously achieve the best results, he always reinvests into his practice by purchasing the top new technologies.

After all, when it comes to your mouth, nobody is more committed to making sure yours is looking great on the inside and out, which is why most of his patients do in fact come by word of mouth.

“We’re not an office with 20 different doctors. I want to give the best overall outcome, mentally and physically. Patients know I give real results with my procedures and techniques and by really having that focus. Many people come through my

door because of what they hear from others – apparently my name regularly comes up at dinner table conservations!”

One of Dr. Davidowitz’s most effective and evolutionary technologies is the Evoke, a non-invasive cutting-edge device which requires no cutting or downtime. This facial remodeling treatment tightens and lifts the facial characteristics on the jowls and under the chin – all areas that frame the smile. By adding Evoke to other dental procedures, patients achieve their most successful smile. This is all part of the Signature Face approach. In fact, Dr. Davidowitz was the first dental office in New York to offer this treatment which truly turns back the clock. “This technology uses bi-polar radiofrequency energy and allows patients to walk out of the office the same day with a smile that they had 10 or 20 years prior. A lot of patients want to look younger, leading them to want to do a small makeover with veneers and porcelain crowns. We also use an upgraded digital impression scanner, eliminating the need to do radiation x-rays.”

These trying times are leading to troublesome teeth problems, especially when it comes to teeth grinding. According to Dr. Davidowitz, many of these issues are a continuation of what many people were diagnosed with already. “Night grinding in particular has gotten much worse. We make up these great night guards that protect enamel and wear due to stress induced muscle tension and tightening in the jaw. These devices are fairly comfortable, and we make taking impressions as pleasant as possible. We use iTero Element 5D, a little camera that takes five minutes and goes around the teeth as opposed to the old impressions which include trays and goo are much more uncomfortable. A lot of bad habits and neglect really started happening during the pandemic.

A lot of people are working from home and now they also have school at home with their kids, so grinding is happening more during the day and they’re forgetting about it. This all leads to fractured teeth, gum problems, TMJ, discomfort, unsightliness of muscles of the face and nutritional issues. Those that never experienced this before now have cracked tooth syndrome as well. This

While he is indeed known for his Signature Smile makeovers, Dr. D as he’s commonly referred to by his patients, really takes his smiles a step further by merging a Signature Smile with a Signature Face. “You never want to undo a bandage around your face or look in the mirror and go uh-oh, or that you have more to finish. This is all about designing the smile, and by using computer assisted designs, we are designing the smile before even doing the procedure. We do a simulation and look at the after photo following a Signature Smile procedure, and it is amazing how similar it looks to the simulation.”

is from biting hard and grinding, which really needs to be properly taken care of. I see other patients who have chips and wear and thinning of the enamel and now they’re diagnosed as having heavy clenching or night grinding and this is all part of stress taking its toll on oral health.”

In addition to teeth grinding issues, the pandemic has caused an uptick in reports of snoring, which is really grinding on some people’s nerves.

“A lot of patients wrote that they had no snoring problems when filling out their intake forms on oral and sleep health, and then I would find out from their partner that this was not the case!” exclaims Dr. Davidowitz. In order to treat this prevalent problem, Dr. Davidowitz is using a solea laser, an alternative to the dreaded dental drill which serves as a light source. This sleep treatment eliminates palatal snoring without pain or invasive procedures.

Dr. Davidowitz isn’t just saving people’s smiles, he’s saving their lives. That’s because stress causes systemic health problems, which is why he tells his patients to smile for at least five minutes a day in order for them to relax their whole bodies. Even those in a rather negative mood or mindset show a drastic change in behavior after undergoing a signature smile treatment. After being stressed himself upon having to close his practice for a few months due to the pandemic until reopening in June, Dr. Davidowitz makes sure that both he and his family, which consists of his wife and two children, ages 8 and 11, put on a happy face!

In addition to taking care of your mouth, Dr. D will make sure your whole face is looking fresh enough to face the world. He measures the upper lip to lower lip and the right to left jowls plus lines on the forehead, crow’s feet, etc., so that he can determine how to best combine his range of treatment options. This one stop smile and overall facial structure shop is designed to make things more seamless for patients, which has never been more important than right now.

After getting great dental work, you don’t have to look for another doctor to take over in order to complete your overall makeover. He also has Dr.Young, an expert in facial aesthetics who handles part of his Signature Face services , which include Botox, fillers and other noninvasive procedures at his practice.

While he is already known as New York’s luxury dentist, Dr. D is always looking for ways to keep his practice as modern as possible. He is currently hoping to introduce a plasma technology for laser resurfacing and rejuvenation especially around the lip line. This is really ideal for those who suffer from smokers’ lines as this can be extremely difficult to correct with just Botox.

Other big plans in the pipeline for the new year include a brand-new book and even his own smile-centric show. Tune in to find out how this expert in facial aesthetics is able to focus not just on your teeth, but your full facial structure – and make sure to schedule a stress-free, perfect smile appointment. u luxurydentistrynyc.com

resident.com | 25

wellness Belcorva Pants Belcorva.com

Aura Smith Collection Frame auraframes.com

Emerging Heroes Face Masks emergingheroes.com

Vellabox Candle Subscription vellabox.com

Smile Direct Club Electric Tooth Brush smiledirectclub.com

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

Live Love Gameday Mask livelovegameday.com

Wellness Trends

Well Told Glass Mug Welltolddesign.com

Silken Pure Pillowcase Silkenpure.com

By Lauren Bens

LaCrosse™ Down Comforter thecompanystore.com

It’s a New Year, which means it’s time to find new ways to keep your space and your mind stress-free. From journaling to candles and new home accessories, your biggest resolution should be to stay safe and stylish.

Jazz Muse by Eddy Bogaert Vegan Leather Print - Art Mecca maskingfashion.com 26 | resident.com

Retro Disney X Happy Socks happysocks.com

2021 Happy Planner® Teresa Collins Deluxe Classic Vertical Planner thehappyplanner.com

Cooch Ball coochball.com

Modernist X Gravity Weighted Robe gravityblankets.com

Longaberger Grey Matte Stoneware Plate longaberger.com

NESPRESSO Vertuo Next nespresso.com

Smythson Swan Soho Notebook smythson.com

PJ Salvage Thankful Hoodie pjsalvage.com

Smile Direct Club Bright on Light and Pen smiledirectclub.com

Remo Tulliani Sunglasses tulliani.com

Hyascent Diffuser neimanmarcus.com

ViraShield Pictarworld.com

Faber-Castell Guilloche Yozakura Ballpoint Pen 5 faber-castell.com

LOLA Leggings lolagetts.com

resident.com | 27

wellness

DR. LISA ZDINAK Precision Aesthetics MD

By LAUREN BENS

I

f you want to look like someone you would want to emulate, it’s time to eliminate cellulite with Emtone™, the easiest and most effective new technology, and no one has a leg up on this latest technology like Dr. Lisa Zdinak, medical director of Precision Aesthetics M.D. Dr. Zdinak was even selected by BTL to be the first ever physical educator on this device which is driving the beauty industry crazy.

Dr. Zdinak is able to cut out cellulite using the cutting-edge Emtone™, which requires no cutting or downtime. By utilizing the simultaneous delivery of two body shaping technologies – monopolar radiofrequency and cellulite busting target busting energy, formally referred to as acoustic wave therapy, she puts cellulite in its not-so-pretty place. Now you can start working on a new you for the New Year.

If the super effective and efficient Emtone™ is cellulite’s worst enemy, then Dr. Zdinak is the leader in the battle to getting a better body. Due to her pioneering use of this sequential combination which has led to overall better outcomes and

28 | resident.com

faster treatment times, this dedicated doctor was selected by BTL to bring her expertise to others.

It’s no surprise that the cellulite eliminating Emtone™ has a 90 percent rate of patient satisfaction; after all, it is not only significantly more effective than standalone cellulite treatments for elastin and building collagen, but it can be used on all skin types to treat lumps and bumps. Plus, Emtone™ therapy feels like a soothing massage, there is no surgery or scars on your road to smooth skin. After just four treatments that take around 20 minutes, patients start to see the parting of the cellulite sea.

Some clients even see a difference after just one session, while additional improvements can usually be seen within the next few months.

Dr. Zdinak, who is dedicated to helping patients achieve their dream bodies, currently offers a range of other treatments as well, from Emsculpt, a body sculpting and muscle enhancing device which uses high intensity focused electromagnetic energy Acoustic Wave Therapy and skin-tightening thermage, to Botox Cosmetics and many other treatments.

When it comes losing your cellulite, this world-renowned expert in the field of medical skin care is leading the way with the easier than ever Emtone™. Dr. Zdinak, who sculpts, shapes and tightens her clients’ bodies with this breakthrough technology at her practice on West 74th Street, frequently lectures other medical professionals and media in the field of the latest aesthetic techniques. She is even a faculty lecturer to the World Congress on Anti-Aging and Aesthetic Medicine in Paris and Monte Carlo. Let’s just say that if you want to look like an A-lister, Dr. Zdinak has just the aesthetically pleasing cellulite reducing device for you.

Want to get rid of cellulite? You don’t have to take it anymore, just treat it with the FDA-cleared Emtone™ which addresses all the lumpy, fatty factors that cause cellulite. Get ready to experience this unique energy combination with Dr. Zdanik, the world’s leading expert. Say goodbye to cellulite and hello to looking and feeling gorgeous. u 212-799-1411 precisionaestheticsmd.com

fashion

PINK A BOO

30 | resident.com

Photographed By Jialang Cai Model Darius the Barbarian resident.com | 31

fashion

32 | resident.com

fashion

34 | resident.com

resident.com | 35

fashion

36 | resident.com

u o y e e Is

resident.com | 37

FASHION

ANATOMIE A-lister Athleisure Wear

By Betty Taylor

F

or fitted athleisure wear fit for an A-lister, Anatomie is the brand that has become favorited by travelers and fashionistas alike. That’s because the anatomy of Anatomie is made up of high-quality and versatile materials, making them the ultimate luxury-travel specific athleisure company with pieces built to last – talk about strong and stylish.

From wrap dresses to fitting tights, plus stylish outwear meant for the sophisticated globetrotter, Anatomie has all of the looks you’re looking for, whether you’re traveling or out on the town. These easy-towear and flattering pieces are great for whatever adventure you find yourself on. This family-owned fashion label was founded by husband and wife Kate and Shawn Boyer.

The brand offers something for everyone’s style and taste, including classic plaid blazers, fun print patterns, water-resistant travel jackets, leggings with lamb leather inserts, the Shiloh blazer jacket with nylon sleeves, and fun tops with asymmetrical mesh patterns. These posh pieces which are perfect for packing take casual to a whole new and chic level. Select items even come with a lifetime guarantee.

Find the latest collection on their website and in more than 400 specialty stores around the country. u anatomie.com

38 | resident.com

Price may vary and items shown may be subject to availability.

KARLIE KLOSS

#BrillianceForAll SHOP THE SWAROVSKI REMIX COLLECTION STARTING AT $39

SWAROVSKI TIMES SQUARE 1565 BROADWAY NEW YORK, NY 10036

FASHION

Lilian Booties

Laura Boots Jak Boots

ITALEAU Makers Of The Italian It Boot

By Betty Taylor

From slouchy knee-high boots to fashionable and functional booties – all of which are waterproof - Italeau’s latest boot collection is perfect for walking all over anything – and anyone you want! italeau.com

Veronica Booties Shearling Jin Booties

40 | resident.com

Joy Booties

CABOCHON RING

609 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10022 (212) 355-6550

Bal Harbour Shops 9700 Collins Avenue Bal Harbour, FL 33154 (305) 537-5150

238 N. Rodeo Drive At 2 Rodeo Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (310) 271-7892

47 East Oak Street Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 867-1787

JOIN THE GAME on lalique.com

The Shops at Crystals 3720 Las Vegas Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89109 (702) 507-2375

cover

42 | resident.com

MICHAEL FISCHER On A Mission To Make Manhattan Safer

by W.A.Muller I Photographed By Fumihiko Sugino

C

entral Park is considered the “Crown Jewel” of New York City. Its sprawling 40 acres are an oasis for New York City residents and visitors to enjoy. With nearly 40 million entering the park yearly, it is by far and wide the busiest urban park in the world.

Neighboring communities on all four sides, this autonomous area for nature is a reprieve for New Yorkers from the city grid. Neighborhoods surrounding the park share a symbiotic relationship with Central Park, with residents loving the park as one of the city’s most sought after amenities, and the park being tended to by residents with the care of a suburbanite to their front lawn.

Tens-of-thousands of New Yorkers identify the park’s edge as “home.” The park is lined by apartments and condominiums, leading the area to retain a largely residential character that has an identity of its own, despite transcending the City’s traditional neighborhood definitions.

Until 2018, the Central Park region remained largely voiceless in community matters, given the lack of unity and the obvious geographic challenges of living on opposite sides of the park. This was recognized by Michael Fischer, a Central Park South resident, who then hatched a plan to bring community to this region of the City. It was then that the Central Park Civic Association was formed.

“Given that some of our members live on the Upper West Side, while others reside on the Upper East Side, as well as near me, in Midtown, it was often overlooked that we all shared one, quite large, neighbor in Central Park,” said Fischer. “While life along the park side is the most wonderful aspect that the city has to offer, our neighborhood is not devoid of challenges, and our residents are not without ideas on how we could improve this region for the better,” he continued.

Fischer then formed the organization, with community buy-in. Dozens became hundreds, and continued

Hair and Makeup by Angela Caroll, Award-Winning Hairstylist in NYC

resident.com | 43

cover

44 | resident.com

growing, as interest in the organization and its cause grew. Today, they are proud to boast a growing membership, who share a mutual interest in keeping the area surrounding the park beautiful, safe, accommodating, prosperous, and an “all-around great place to live,” says the group’s founder.

Almost immediately, the Central Park Civic Association emerged as an outspoken, citywide leader on the issues facing the Manhattan Borough and the City at-large.

Alongside other community groups, one of the first, and perhaps most notable, endeavors undertaken by the group was joining the opposition to the conversion of the Park Savoy Hotel to become a homeless shelter.

“The Park Savoy Hotel, located just one block from Central Park South, was chosen as a site for one of the City’s controversial homeless hotels. When the community learned about this, our first reaction was one of neighborly concern: what would this do for the safety in our community, when would our new neighbors be moving in,” says Fischer. “These are the same concerns that anyone living next to a homeless shelter would feel, but we understood the needs to help those who are underserved.”

Then, after learning that the location was slated to house 150 single men and that the infrastructure of the building had not been updated with the essential safety measures since the 1930’s, the situation boiled over.

“The homeless crisis in New York City is at fever pitch, with more New Yorkers living on the streets now than at any other period in the City’s history, other than during the Great Depression. We can not, though, stand idly by as the City bypasses its own safety codes to put these people in need in a fire-trap hotel, where one emergency could lead to many being injured or killed in a blaze,” said Fischer.

“What makes the building unsafe,” says Fischer “is that there is only one staircase which in the event of an emer-

resident.com | 45

cover

gency, the residents could be trapped from exiting the building. This is a violation of NYC Building Code. The one staircase is narrow and winding, with no platform, making a giant fire trap,” he continued.

“Not one of the bedrooms has fire sprinklers at the Park Savoy. Hallways are narrow. Residents would have a very hard time exiting the building in the event of an emergency - altogether, a recipe for a disaster.”

“The City can learn from past mistakes. The 2019 Harlem fire at the Frederick E Samuel House resulted in 4 young children and two adults losing their lives to a fire because they were trapped in a building with only one way out. In the 1990 Happy Land Nightclub fire, 87 people lost their lives due to being trapped on the only single narrow staircase due to smoke inhalation.

In both instances, as required by NYC Building Code, a second way out of the building would have saved lives.”

46 | resident.com

Some of the top fire experts in New York City have come forward and agreed. In a high-profile battle, which at one point reached the cover of the New York Daily News, the residents of this community fought this - with politicians, with facts, and with lawyers. This remains in litigation.

Fischer believes that the homeless in New York City are abandoned. “We need to partner with the Federal Government, the State government, and localities, to innovate new ways that effectively house and rehabilitate this vulnerable population,” says Fischer. “There are less costly opportunities than currently being done to build modern rehabilitation facilities that are effective to rehabilitate those in need. The ones who can’t be rehabilitated to the point of being placed in jobs, would have a place to live. It’s the year 2021, no one should be living on the Streets.”

there was strength in numbers.”

While the Central Park Civic Association has continued to grow its influence, President Michael Fischer has also begun to grow his profile as an advocate for the City of New York, to help bring attention to those in need and to preserve the integrity of the City of New York.

And, given the City’s contemporary challenges with crime, with homelessness, with the COVID-19 pandemic bearing down on urban New Yorkers, there has been no shortage of subject matter.

“The City is in crisis, because there are several mini-crises that are boiling over at any given time. In a lot of ways, the crises that occur here first, they then spread elsewhere throughout New York when no one addresses them.

The subways, he offers as an example:

“Central Park Residents are not the type of people to ignore a tragedy in the making,” said Fischer. “This was the first time we realized that

“New York City’s subway system has basically become, at this time, the world’s largest home-

resident.com | 47

cover

48 | resident.com

less shelter. Which began here on the outskirts of the park, the mentally disturbed or those without a permanent residence began to use the platforms as a means of staying warm in the winter,” said Fischer.

“Due to the woefully inadequate services that are being provided by the City of New York, now, there are homeless in nearly every-single subway platform, this is contributing to crime, it’s contributing to community spread of the coronavirus. If the government would have acted immediately and cracked down on this when it first became an issue, it would not have led to a systemwide issue that every New Yorker is burdened with.”

Fischer has been sourced as an expert in the media to discuss these issues, too, on local news networks like New York 1, Fox 5, in the New York Post and the New York Daily News, even on national broadcasts like FOX News Channel.

When asked about his role in citywide affairs, Fischer compared his role to the “squeaky wheel.”

“In a lot of ways, I am trying to get the attention of our politicians to address the issues that have gone on for far too long, while also attempting to generate publicity around issues that have not yet risen as a topic of conversion,” said Fischer.

“It’s important to note that the only way things become high-profile, is by someone taking up the cause and championing it for change. If not me, then who will do something about it?

My only motivation remains simple, to help improve our community for us all.”

Fischer believes that the best pathway forward is by growing the club. While no longer in the “infancy” of existence, the organization is still new. To become a greater power player, it needs to emerge on the radar.

“We have a real plan for growth here. In coop-

eration with our membership, we are planning on making ourselves very actively known in the City’s upcoming political affairs,” Fischer said.

“We are going to be hosting ‘Meet the Candidates’ nights, COVID-19 permitting or virtual.

We are going to request that the candidates for mayor fill out surveys, so our organizations and its membership knows where every candidate stands on the issues. We need solutions and if we keep electing politicians with ideas, not solutions, we will just continue to see cherished institutions of our city deteriorate.”

“We must unite, grow, and from there use a bullhorn to be heard,” said Fischer. “But if anyone can do it, it is us.”

For more information on the Central Park Civic Association, visit the organization’s website at www.CentralParkCivicAssociation.com or follow them on their active social media accounts, Facebook and Twitter. u

resident.com | 49

dining

I

t is not at all surprising that the jet-set fashion set has seemingly made Grand Street in Soho the go-to for that one-of-a-kind five-star pasta craving. Ryan Seacrest, Winnie Harlow (when in town) and uber-fashionista-PR-queen Kelly Cutrone know that when the dinner date requires the finest Italian. I won’t be at the over-rated Cipriani up the street or the underwhelming Il Mulino across the street.

It will be at the consciously chic and intimate Instagram ready setting of Sola. With inviting French doors that swing open up to lower West Broadway and a splashy open concept stainless steel kitchen replete with a jazzy brass bar and cloaked with serrated hand-carved stone. It is the restaurant’s design statement piece-de-resistance.

The true piece-de-resistance of Sola is unquestionably the food. ‘’Quality is the key!’’ says the

50 | resident.com

SOLA

The Soho Pasta Mecca

By GEORGE WAYNE urbane Milanese emigre turn chic restaurateur Simone Tiligna. ‘’The pasta is homemade, our sauces are homemade, even the focaccia is homemade, the burrata is homemade and the pesto is homemade.’’ The exclusive pasta is in fact made in-house at the Sola pasta factory at another location in the Financial District. ‘’We are Italian and we bring real Italian taste. Simplicity and authenticity and passion is the Sola credo,’’ the sexy restaurateur continued.

The menu of the chic Sola is deliciously minimal

and consists of a range of 10 pasta dishes and four appetizers. And the array of pasta dishes arrive at the table Instagram-ready in custom-designed plating. It is swirl after swirl of the most delicious pasta you will find anywhere in Soho, New York City. ‘’We didn’t want a huge menu with a lot of items but we had to have our signature delicious staples.’’ And so, the Sola experience must begin with an order of the Crochette Di Pollo-- delectable, melt-in-your-mouth organic chicken croquettes garnished with spicy jalapeno mayo, and a must order of Tempura Di Gamberi--the delicate and tasty shrimp tempura with shishito peppers and pepperoncini. The large gnocchi like orbs of stuffed porcini is also another worthy appetizer standout. Sip on the exquisite espresso martini or a glass of the house red Montepulciano and check out the bon-chic and bon-genre that

will once again be flocking to lower West Broadway and Grand Street come the Spring of 2021.

Ryan Seacrest is a fan of the 24K Gold Spaghetti which is a squid ink sea urchin eye-catching concoction highlighted with Calabrian chile and gold leaf. ‘’Aaah...one of our best-sellers’’ says the handsome restaurateur in an even more charming and beyond endearing Italian accent. GW is completely smitten with the dapper style plate sitting before me, but once the food arrives--well that is another story entirely. The legendary fashion PR maven Kelly Cutrone orders in daily and she is a fan of the signature Cacio de Pepe and so too the famed DJ Steve Aoki. For GW it’s all about the Tagliatella Di Tartufo Blanco. The most decadent serving of truffled tagliatelle I have ever eaten! And instant Sola house classic! In one word--orgasmic!

Other dishes guaranteed to have your foodie

hormones in over-drive include anything with the fresh and distinct pesto or the classic ragu bolognese. And the camera-ready star of the night -- the turquoise blue rigatoni Sola classic. Homemade rigatoni with blue butterfly pea coloring in a four-cheese sauce of mozzarella, pecorino, parmesan and cheddar. Watching the willowy Italian waitress bringing this dish over is like watching the unforgettable catwalk debut of the next great supermodel. It’s a gorgeous mesmerizing plate which takes the Sola dining experience to the next level.

And that’s what makes this tiny minimalist Soho face-place a must dine experience for the first days of Spring or the first days of a new year in Manhattan. The cool astute foodie looking to gorge on the tastiest pasta dishes in New York City and get into to the groove once again. We just found the perfect pasta mecca for you.

’We’ve created something cool and that was always the goal,’’ says the other business partner Marc Pedrazzoli. Elevated classic Italian dishes served up in a slick fashionista ready setting. In other words--experiential Italian! The sexy style plate Simone Tiligna, in his bespoke Italian suit, chirps and charms once more. ‘’We had to do something different. After all, we are surrounded by the best competition. So we had to truly bring it and make a difference. So Sola is our theatre.

Sola is our story. Sola is your home for the finest pasta dining.’’ There is no doubt that when you visit to just go with the house Pasta Tasting-- a prix fixe $95 offering opportunity to slurp down five different pasta dishes with your favorite dinner date. And a visit to the less formal, more low key sister satellite-- Call Me Pasta at 241 Pearl Street-- is also worth the trek. u solahospitality.com

resident.com | 51

dining

AMARANTH A Mediterranean Oasis

By Lillian Langtry

L

ocated just off Madison Avenue on 62nd Street, between Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue, Amaranth offers a fusion of original Italian food and French food, with a large portion of specialty items imported directly from Italy and France. Owned by Paola Pedrignani and Francois Marchand, this year marks the 21st year for Amaranth—a testament to the quality, service, and warm ambiance found at this upscale Mediterranean restaurant, opened in 1999. They are renowned for their classic dishes, like their famous Focaccia Robiola, baked in our brick oven and served with Robiola cheese. Other fixtures on the menu include the Steak Tartare, which is prepared in front of customers to ensure freshness and the right balance of spices, and the Octopus Carpaccio – fresh, quality seafood from the Mediterranean served on a bed of greens.

cotti served with Vin Santo Wine for dipping.

There are also a number of healthy, light choices served with the highest quality ingredients – like the Whole Maine Lobster Salad, served with radicchio, endive, arugula, cremini mushrooms and citrus vinaigrette.

The Pan Seared Nantucket Sea Scallops with mushrooms, braised leeks and lemon white wine sauce always impresses. Amaranth’s pastas are homemade and are available whole wheat and gluten free. The dessert menu is hard to resist – from the Mille Feuille Napolean with mixed berries and crème anglaise to the Cantucci al Vin Santo – a homemade bis-

Amaranth is the perfect place to hold private parties and special celebrations. The team can organize private sit-down dinners and cocktail parties, with a special menu personalized by the chef. Amaranth staff love celebrating birthdays with customers. With sparkler candles and delicious Valhona Chocolate Cake, a birthday celebration at Amaranth will always be an unforgettable one. u

52 | resident.com

Amaranth is named after the deep red-rose colored flowers of the Amaranth plant, owner Paola Pedrignani says. “The deep, wine red color is warm and welcoming – we thought it represents the way our restaurant feels brilliantly.” Customers come to Amaranth for the full dining experience – excellent service, elegant décor, and the casual, home-awayfrom-home feel.

The restaurant’s charm has attracted a dedicated fan base of New Yorkers, Europeans, and celebrity clientele including the late Joan Rivers, Miranda Kerr, Orlando Bloom, former president of France Nicolas Sarkozy, and many more.

amaranthrestaurant.com

dining

Union Sushi & Steak Hosts

“MUSING AND MASTERING: THE ORDINARY,” Presented By UEast75 Gallery

By Elizabeth Elston Alysha Marko

U

pper East Side’s UEast75 Gallery presents “Musing and Mastering: The Ordinary,” an upcoming pop-up exhibition at Union Sushi & Steak in Southampton, NY. Featuring work from six world-renowned Latin and American artists – curator Alysha Marko, along with Juan Lazaro, Renelio Marin, Rodrigo Pedrosa, Lane Rudder and Carlos Vega – this art exhibit will be unlike any other you have witnessed in the East End.

“As this year descends ever so bittersweetly, we can all agree it has been one that has been far from The Ordinary. We have all been forced to some degree to experience what we have right in front of us much clearer. Artists have done it for centuries -- being stuck inside their mental and physical spaces, giving birth to works, beckoning the word ordinary to [come to light]. These moments are expanded here [in this moment]. We thank these artists for each of their unique imaginations within this subject,” Alysha Marko, owner of UEast75 Gallery, shares.

54 | resident.com

From December 10th, 2020 through January 18th, 2021, Union Sushi & Steak will be transformed into a one-of-a-kind experience where restaurant-goers will get to dine on exquisite food all while taking in remarkable art. Co-owner Ian Duke of Union Sushi & Steak teamed up with longtime pal Alysha Marko to bring some entertainment in the form of original art and canvases to the Hamptons this holiday season, rather than have New Yorkers, who have remained in the Hamptons these past few months, travel back to the city to shop for art.

Work from “Musing and Mastering: The Ordinary” will be up for sale (ranging from $400 up to $18K) and a portion of the proceeds will benefit NORD (National Organization of Rare Diseases). Now is the perfect time to pick up some amazing pieces for yourself or for gifts for loved ones, make a great investment in art and charitable donation, and add some eccentric decoration to your home.

“I’m thrilled. A lot of my clients who have second

homes in the Hamptons haven’t been able to see my new work because they haven’t been coming into the city as much lately,” Marko says. “This new location is what I’ve wanted for a long time. The gallery in NYC, which is street level on 75th Street off Madison, has seen much less foot traffic and walk-ins lately. Now, I’m just thrilled because this is the perfect market to have a pop-up gallery in Southampton.”

Duke adds, “Ultimately, Alysha and I saw an opportunity for us to work together, which we haven’t had the chance to do before, nor has it ever been done at the restaurant. There are a number of people out on the East End who can’t go in or won’t go into Manhattan to visit galleries, so we thought this would be a great opportunity to bring the gallery to them. Plus, we thought this would create a very unique environment for people to experience art as well as a unique dining experience.” u dineatunion.com

Enjoy the barefoot luxury of Saint Lucia’s Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort.

Treat your palate by dining in any of our 5 restaurants. Balancing culture, entertainment, romance, and adventure, Windjammer Landing provides guests with everything they need to create an unparalleled vacation experience that is uniquely Saint Lucia.

Have A Question? Give us a call: US+Canada 877-522-0722 | UK 0808.101.7261 Labrelotte Bay Labrelotte Bay Castries, St. Lucia | reservations@windjammer-landing.com

dining

KEEPING UP WITH OIJI New York’s Best Korean Fare

By Lauren Bens

W

hen it comes to serving up authentic and refined Korean fare, no one can keep up with Oiji, a contemporary and cozy restaurant in the East Village. This scrumptious and stylish spot is creating unique plates of Korean cuisine using both traditional and innovative methods.

From intimate interiors to very palatable plates – and plating - Oiji offers an elevated dining experience. With artful techniques and seasonal, fresh ingredients, their dishes are just as decorative as the décor. Their mouthwatering fare served in a modern setting, is both reimagined and comforting. With an open kitchen concept, reclaimed wood, exposed brick and ambient lighting with factory sash windows overlooking downtown streets, you can enjoy an appetizing meal with ambiance.

This unique spot with tasty bites is brought to you by chef and owner team Brian Kim. He was born and raised in Korea and eventually went on to work in numerous restaurants in Seoul before attending the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. This talented chef wanted to bring his own take on Korean food to the Big Apple which diners can now take

56 | resident.com

a big bite out of. Kim wound up working at the famed gastronomic gem Gramercy Tavern before opening Oiji and realizing his delicious dream.

Enjoy his inventive menus, which include chicken, seafood, vegetarian and meat options. Sample different dishes, including Korean Fried Cauliflower with Greek yogurt and finger musket grapes, the Oiji Bowl, comprised of sea urchin, sweet shrimp and seaweed rice, Baby Octopus, made with butter gochujang and chayote, Jang-Jo-Rim, beef shank with buttered rice and soy marinated egg and Chili Lobster with chilled rumyun, scallion garlic sauce and sugar snap peas. His most innovative dishes include the Long Island Duckling with kimchi fried rice, asparagus and eggplant, Oxtail with glass noddle and rice vegetables and Bone Marrow, tender short rib with maitake and crispy rice cracker. Please your palate with the Ssam Platter, spicy port and Gang-deon-jang for two.

You won’t find such Korean inspired fare like this anywhere else. u oijinyc.com

WHY NOT?

dining

ing menu deluxe featuring Shishito Peppers, Nikkei Gyoza, Nikkei Jalea Mixta Deluxe, Chuleta de Cordero Ahumada, Tentaculos de Pulpo and a chef’s choice dessert amongst other plates.

CHOTTO MATTE Fine And Fun Nikkei Fare

By Lauren Bens

C

how down on delicious at Chotto Matte, Miami’s number one spot for palatable plates in paradise. Take in the eclectic vibe which fuses urban Tokyo with the South Beach scene while enjoying the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. Miami has never been so mouthwatering!

Experience the cultural flair incorporated into Nikkei fare at the first Chotto Matte spot in the U.S. Founder and owner Kurt Zdesar, who now has locations in St. Tropez, Toronto and London, opened this Miami space in 2018. With tropical interiors and a tantalizing take on this unique cuisine, plus a retractable roof for year-round al fresco dining, this is the sleekest spot on South Beach. Sip on mixed cocktails surrounded by cherry blossom orchards, bespoke art and fun beats. It’s time to get your gastronomic groove on.

Nikkei, a Japanese and Peruvian fusion food, is the tasty trend taking over the culinary world. Since

58 | resident.com

emigrating to Peru, the Japanese community has made significant cultural – and culinary contributions. This cuisine incorporates traditions of both cultures, including fresh fish, especially Japanese sushi, a perfect pairing with ceviche, a Peruvian favorite. Chef Jordan Sclare brings his innovative techniques and modern touch to these Nikkei style dishes. This sleek space is also sustainable.

After all, they believe in using only natural, locally produced ingredients made with no artificial flavoring.

Chotto Matte’s flavorful fare is just as appetizing as their ambiance, and the best way to experience it all is by sharing. Their Nikkei vegan sharing menu includes BBQ Edamame, Lychee Ceviche, Asparagus Spring Roll, Shojin Nikkei Maki, Rocoto Cauliflower Wings, Nasu Miso and King Oyster Tostadas. Delicacies from some of their other delectable sharing menus include Pollo Picante, Chotto Ceviche, Asado de Tira, Salmon Tiradito and Spicy Tuna O.N.M. For a super special experience, indulge in the shar-

Try some appetizing appetizers, or what they like to call a little something. From Edamame to Purple, Green and White Tostada Chips with guacamole to gluten free Yuca Frita, including cassava wedges and smoked panca dip, your culinary adventure is off to a very promising – and palatable – start. Their sashimi specialties include Chotto Ceviche, made with branzino sashimi, leche de tigre and chive oil and El Trio de Lima, a great medley of tuna, yellowtail, salmon, Sakura salsa, chives, olive oil and lime. Their tasty Tuna Tataki is a delicious dish of seared tuna, Karashi su miso and red jalapeno herb salsa while their Yellowtail “Nikkei Sashimi”, yellowtail with cherry tomatoes, jalapeño, cilantro and yuzu truffle soy is another favorite find.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Robata, or Binchotan Charcoal BBQ. Robata organic plates include Rocota Cauliflower Wings with Peruvian chili dressing and cilantro and King Oyster Tostadas with pulled mushroom, smoked aji panca chili, guacamole, lime and cilantro. Robata Grill favorites include Gambas a la Parrilla, smoked aji amarillo marinade and chipotle ponzu and Tentaculos de Pulpo, octopus, yuzu and purple potato. You can even enjoy Arroz Chaufa, made with Peruvian vegetable, egg fried rice and spicy sesame soy with shrimp, waygu or lobster. Their sushi and sashimi options range from Suzuki with branzino to Tamago, a Japanese omelet.

Take your tasty culinary tour to new heights with their Machu Picchu Mountain, made of pistachio ice cream, caramelized popcorn and mango coulis. You will definitely find enough Nikkei dishes to enhance and please your palate. u chotto-matte.com

There is Beauty in Simplicity.

Please Drink Responsibly. Chopin Vodka, 40% Alc. By Vol. Imported by Chopin Imports, Wilmington, DE www.ChopinVodka.com @ChopinVodka resident.com | 59

dining

Bite Into International Bites At

THE BAZAAR BY JOSE ANDRES

By Betty Taylor

L

ive la dolce vida with Latin inspired indulgences at The Bazaar by Jose Andres in South Beach. While each Bazaar hot spot offers a one-of-a-kind and delectable dining experience, the South Beach space features signature plates with innovative cuisine reflective of both Latin American and Caribbean influences.

Their creative and flavorful fare deliciously display the talents of famed chef Jose Andres and his ThinkFoodGroup team.

Fall in love at first bite at this beachfront eatery which offers tasty takes on creative cuisines and sleek scenery. Located in the SLS Hotel South Beach, guests can enjoy cocktails at the al fresco Bar Centro before moving to the mouthwatering part of the meal in one of two artsy dining rooms.

With oversized columns featuring writing in various languages, an oversized pink bull head, dramatic red curtains and leather booths, the space near the hotel’s entrance is both playful and perfect for people watching. Further inside the lobby is the gently lit and whimsical Blanca, with calming off-white tones and natural woods.

this architectural style for its extravagance mixed with contemporary design. Get your taste bud party started with Singapore inspired starters including the Caviar Cone, with Ossetra caviar, capers, eggs, onion and crème fraiche, and the Tortilla De Patatas “New Way”, egg 63, potato espuma and crispy potato. Healthy vegetarian dishes include Baby Japanese Peaches, with fresh burrata, hazelnuts and arugula, and the Piquillo Relleno De Cana De Cabra, a perfect balance of flavors featuring goat cheese, plantain and mojo verde.

Dig into Dragon Fruit Ceviche, composed of tuna, pecans, lemon and hibiscus and Smoked Oysters with compressed apples and apple mignonette.

You’ll be sure to have sweet dreams after tasting Neptune’s Pillow, a tasty concoction of tuna sashimi, spicy tuna, spicy rocoto and sea lettuce powder. Other succulent seafood plates include Conch Fritters “Café Atlantico” with a liquid center and Fish En Papillote, made with sauce alcaparrado and crispy quiona. Meet unique meat dishes, including Cuban Coffee Rubbed Churrasco with passion fruit and Pollo Al Ajillo Cubano, slow-cooked chicken thigh and black garlic.

Aside from serving seaside inspired favorites, their other tasty twists showcase the area’s Art Deco roots which are also reminiscent of the hotel, as well as inspirations from Singapore – in the 1930s, both Miami and Singapore embraced

Latas y Conservas might be a technique that was invented in France in 1810, but Spain has since become known for producing the highest quality canned goods in the world. Although the restaurant prepares everything fresh on premises, they

60 | resident.com

also pay tribute to these inventive methods by preparing selections in this Spanish canning fashion and presenting them in a can. Enjoy Ferran Adria Modern and Traditional Olive, featuring a liquid green olive and gordal olive stuffed with piquillo pepper and anchovy. Other Spanish dishes include Chorizo Iberico ‘Fermin’, or dry-cured sausage and Pa Amb Tomaquet, a Catalan-style toasted bread brushed with fresh tomato which can be served with Spanish anchovies or Manchego cheese. Try a selection of queso, made with cow, goat or sheep milk, or Verduras Tradicional, including Pisto, with tomato sofrito, eggplant, cipolini onion, zucchini, bell pepper and golden egg. At the center of Spanish cuisine is their seafood, and The Bazaar puts their scrumptious spin on it with dishes like Octopus Romesco with potatoes, tomato comfit and seaweed and Sauteed Shrimp with garlic, parsley, spicy tomato sauce, emon and guindilla pepper.

If you’re craving carnes, enjoy Croquetas de Pollo, chicken bechamel fritters, or Secreto Iberico de Bellota with Iberico potato puree and Pa’aamb Tomaquet. Just make sure to save room for Key Lime Pie – made Jose’s way of course – or a Banana Mojito, with mojito sorbet, mint and caramelized banana.

Cheers to a delicious adventure in South Beach with tasty bites at The Bazaar by Jose Andres. u thebazaar.com

g i l de d

age

of

grandeur

Newly Reimagined Spring 2018

Every great destination has one iconic hotel. hidden away on more than 110 acres in the berkshires, one of the most idyllic locations to enjoy New England’s seasons, stands a Tudor-style estate evocative of a 19th century Scottish stone manor.

Elegant and distinguished, steeped in history and charm where experiences are infused with lasting traditions, unwavering attention to detail and unparalleled personal service.

Recently reimagined after a multi-million dollar renovation, Blantyre offers pampered pleasures from exquisite cuisine paired with a Wine Spectator Grand Award wine list, a world-class collection of art and an array of complimentary resort and cultural activities.

413.637.3556

BLANTYRE.COM

resident.com | 61

food

BETTER THAN MILK®

Better For Your Body And Better For The Environment

By Lauren Bens

I

f your New Year’s resolution is to stay healthy without compromising on happiness, organic beverage Better Than Milk® has arrived just in time to turn your resolution into a reality.

Made with clean and simple ingredients, both the contents and container of this plant-based brand are environmentally conscious. Better Than Milk is quickly becoming the most satisfying and sustainable milk alternative on the market.

62 | resident.com

This healthy and delicious drink will definitely put a spring in your step – literally. That’s because these shelf stable and satisfying beverages contain Italian spring water sourced 450 meters above sea level in the Lessini Mountains of Northern Italy. Your taste buds are sure to find themselves on a tasty trip with this creamy, organic goodness which is also USDA organic, vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, kosher and

devoid of any dairy, gluten, lactose, soy, carrageenan, soy, artificial flavors, sulfites and even cholesterol.

With Better Than Milk, you can be good to your body, and the environment. Not only are all beverages made in a state-of-the art, environmentally friendly facility, but all containers are FSC certified. Even the plastic caps are bio-based and

composed from sugarcane rather than the commonly used petroleum.

“We care about our consumers and we care about the earth”, explains Lonnie Williard, Vice President of Marketing at PANOS brands®, parent company of the Better Than Milk brand. “Our organic drinks are responsibly-sourced and with recyclable packaging, so we proudly bring welcomed relevance to shelf stable milk alternatives, as even our caps our made from renewable resources.”

In addition to natural spring water – no distilled or tap water here – all five flavors of this organic nondairy beverage alternative also include Unsweetened Almond Drink, Almond Drink, Unsweetened Oat Drink, Unsweetened Rice and Calcium Drink, and Rice Hazelnut Drink. Whether you don’t do

dairy due to health or lifestyle reasons, Better Than Milk is indeed better than all other dairy alternatives – and even real dairy products.

What can you do to make this holiday a bit healthier? Make some festive cookies and other baked goods using Better Than Milk - along with a glass of their plant-based milk. You can even check out their website for some great ideas. Find the year’s best new non-dairy brand which retails at $3.99 at specialty and natural grocery retailers around the country, including Jewel-OSCO, Erewhon Market, Woodman’s, Buehler’s Fresh Foods, Pete’s Fresh Market, and on Amazon.

About PANOS Brands PANOS brands®, is a consumer products foods company that manages a unique portfolio of

shelf stable and perishable specialty food and beverage brands across multiple categories and channels. “P.A.N.O.S.” is an acronym that precisely defines the company’s mission to offer Premium, Authentic, Natural, Organic, and Specialty foods throughout the U.S and Canada. True to its namesake - the ancient Greek word for torch – they like to think of their brands as a beacon for consumers who are increasingly demanding a wide spectrum of specialty foods. Their collection of brands speaks directly to sustained trends in categories such as organic, ethnic, vegetarian and restricted-diet, and gourmet foods.

Make it a better holiday and year ahead with Better Than Milk! u drinkbetterthanmilk.com

food

A DUTCH MASTERPIECE Meet The Award-Winning Cheese

By Lauren Bens

I

f you want to show off your masterful palate this holiday season – and all year-round – A Dutch Masterpiece has an award-winning repertoire of cheeses. You can taste their quality craftsmanship, heritage and Gouda goodness in each and every bite.

Just in time for the holidays, the brand has introduced a redesign featuring exquisite packaging as well as an updated website that will let you explore the wonders of this world-renowned brand. Now you can really enjoy appetizing artwork from this timeless cheese collection!

This posh – and palatable - new packaging depicts famed and readily identifiable Dutch painters along with their most well-known works of art.

Cheese connoisseurs as well as those just learning about the brand, which offers a variety of bold and full-bodied cheeses, will also find informative tasting notes on the packaging. For A Dutch Masterpiece, it’s all about educating people on what makes this unique line of cheeses so special and more importantly, scrumptious.

Between their creatively designed packaging presentation which showcases their traditional roots and techniques, you can see that behind the scenes of A Dutch Masterpiece, the cheese wheels have spinning with great – and tasty – ideas.

Consumers can enjoy both sophisticated cheese wedges as well depictions of the Netherlands most notable painters including Rembrandt van Rijn, Vincent van Gogh, Johannes Vermeer and Frans Hals. Just as these artists from the 16th, 17th and 19th centuries remain classics, so do these

64 | resident.com

cheeses – talk about a perfect pairing with the perfect presentation. Let’s just say these artworks and cheeses continue to heighten the senses, from your eyes to your tastebuds.

The timeless beauty and rich heritage of these painters inspired the four matured and mouthwatering cheeses that make up the range of A Dutch Masterpiece. Made with fresh milk from the world’s most dedicated dairy farmers, each cheese has its own customized recipe and ripening process. With farm fresh flavors as well as unique and refined textures and taste, it’s no surprise that all members of the Dutch Masterpiece family have won numerous awards for their distinct qualities and commitment to the craft of traditional Dutch cheesemaking. Both the Rembrandt (2004) and Vermeer (2012) were voted best cheese in the world at the World Championship Cheese Contest held in the U.S. – yes, that’s a thing.

“Our cheeses are as much a work of art as the innovative and prolific golden age painters for which they are named” explains Debbie Seife, marketing director of Friesland Campina Consumer Dairy. “Distinctive in flavor like their artists, our new brand identity and package design frames the distinctive features of each painter, their formative work, and the unique age and tasting notes of each of the awarding winning cheeses in our masterpiece collection.”

By paying homage to their roots in a traditional Dutch way while using state-of-the-art production facilities, A Dutch Masterpiece is the perfect addition to your holiday platter, as well as snack

time and well, all the time. It’s time to meet these masterpieces, from the full-bodied Frans Hals to the rich flavor of Vincent, as well as the delicate fruity flavor of Vermeer and sharp taste and rich texture of Rembrandt: Rembrandt: This Extra Aged Gouda Cheese features a firm texture and strong, robust taste. This cheese, which is traditionally ripened for one year, is the winner of the World Championship Cheese Contest World Champion in 2004 and received the World Cheese Awards 2016 Gold.

Vincent – Fully ripened for six months, this sweet cheese is the perfect example of where Gouda meets parmesan flavor. Winner of the World Cheese Awards 2013 Gold.

Frans Hals – Find a full-bodied taste and delicate aroma with this aged Dutch goat cheese that is naturally matured for up to six months. Made with 100 percent goat’s milk, Frans Hals found itself at the top with the World Cheese Awards 2016 Super Gold.

Vermeer – Dig into this delicious Dutch Gouda with a delicate, fruity flavor. Traditionally ripened for five months and World Championship Cheese Contest World Champion in 2012, World Cheese Awards 2013 Gold.

Whether it’s a snack or holiday platter, A Dutch Masterpiece will turn each and every occasion into a mouthwatering masterpiece. u adutchmasterpiece.com

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION CHEESEBOARD

INGREDIENTS 1 package each A Dutch Masterpiece Rembrandt Aged Gouda, Vermeer Aged Gouda, Fran Hals Goat and Vincent Cheese 3 types of charcuterie 8 oz Pecans 8 oz Walnuts (shelled) 1 Persimmon

1 Blood Orange ½ cup Blackberries Small bunch of red grapes Fig Jam 1 Honeycomb 2 types rustic crackers Garnishes – rosemary, whole cranberries, whole star anise Large Cheese Board, cheese knife, small table knife, small bowl, and spoon

INSTRUCTIONS (Serves 8 to 10 people)

Cube, slice or make small rough cuts from the selected cheeses and arrange on the board. Arrange selected charcuterie on board, fill the fig jam in a small bowl, and create small piles of nuts, sliced fruits and crackers. Add honeycomb and fig jam.

Garnish for the finishing touch. If smaller gathering start with 2 cheeses and reduce quantity of accompaniments accordingly.

A holiday celebration calls for bubbles. A crisp, chilled bottle of Prosecco which pairs beautifully with the creamy tone of the cheese.

resident.com | 65

food

FIND FUN AND FLAVOR Mikey’s Gluten-Free And Dairy-Free Frozen Foods

By Betty Taylor

T

here are lots of fads in the food business, products that burst onto the scene and then lose their luster. Michael Tierney, founder of Mikey’s gluten and dairy-free frozen pizza pockets and baked goods, doesn’t chase fads. He launched his eponymous brand in 20__ with the goal of reinventing the category and bringing clean ingredients, dense nutrition and great taste to allergen sensitive consumers. Today, Mikey’s is a leader in better-for-you, freefrom hand-held meals, tortillas, English muffins and pizza crusts, realizing his ambition to create “the next generation of gluten free.”

Before making his mark in specialty foods, Michael Tierney, a Long Island native, was enamored with high-end dining. He began helping

66 | resident.com

in commercial kitchens at the age of 12, graduated from the Culinary Institute of America, and worked in two of the world most acclaimed restaurants, Thomas Keller’s legendary French Laundry in Napa Valley, and Daniel Humm’s esteemed Eleven Madison Park in New York City. “It was such a unique time to be at Eleven Madison,” explained Tierney. “I had the chance to help grow it from the very beginning, watching it get four stars in the New York Times and then be voted one of the top ten restaurants in the world. But I had another dream, to make the first chocolate filled marshmallow, and I wound up leaving the fine dining world in order to figure out how to make Stuffed Puffs. No one had ever done it before, and it turned out to be a lot harder than I expected. So, I started catering on the side and led

led me to a health store in Plainview, New York, owned by Debbie Cohen and her husband Marty.”

While at the store, Michael observed that there was a huge space for gluten-free bread, which was growing in popularity, but most of the products had the same or higher numbers of calories and carbohydrates than regular bread. The only thing going for it was the absence of gluten. “I said to myself, we have to do better than this. By incorporating clean and functional quality ingredients, we could create a product that’s more than gluten-free. I started Mikey’s with a holistic approach. There was a consumer base that was really underserved. It was very misleading for people to think these products were better for them holistically. While only a small percentage

of Americans have celiac disease, many people are on healthy diet regimens which eliminate gluten, which is highly inflammatory even without a noticeable reaction. So, a lot of people feel better not eating gluten and typically find they have more energy.”

Determined to bring his baked goods to the forefront of the healthy food frontier, Michael started cooking in small commercial kitchens and drove them out to Plainview every day, where they soon had a loyal following at the health food store. His first hit product was a delicious gluten-free English muffin make with just 6 ingredients found in everyone’s pantry. As word spread, so did demand, and Mikey’s was born.

The secret to Mikey’s success was a Michael Tierney insight: people on restricted diets, such a gluten-free, hated being forced to compromise on taste. With his background in fine dining, Michael was determined to solve that problem. “I knew everything carrying the Mikey’s name had to not only be nutritious but also taste great. Quality is at the heart of our business – it all starts with the ingredients you use. I didn’t go to business school. I was fortunate to go to the best cooking school in America, and to work in two of the world’s greatest restaurants. So, I knew how to combine a few simple ingredients into great tasting baked goods. We started out with English muffins and then noticed people on Instagram making pizza bagels out of them and started making pizza crusts. Then we saw tortillas becoming a thing in the market and launched our own frozen tortillas.

But the really big move happened when I partnered with Factory LLC, a food and beverage accelerator in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. With Factory’s support, I began making Mikey’s frozen pizza pockets, gluten and dairy-free handheld meals. Starting with pepperoni,

and then adding dairy-free cheese, we grew the business into a line of five meal and snack pockets and two breakfast pockets. And next year we are introducing two vegan pockets, partnering with Beyond Meat.”

From English muffins to breakfast pockets, Mikey’s is providing gluten and dairy-free families with wholesome and delicious foods for every meal and snacking occasion. And Mikey’s fan base is rapidly expanding beyond families with food allergies.

The newest Mikey’s products – vegetable-base superfood tortillas – may be the most innovative and tasty food to hit the better-for-you freezer this year. Mikey’s new superfood tortillas are colorful, tasty and fun, with inventive names that echo the inventive products: Sweets & Beets, Golden Turmeric, Super Greens and Purple Power.

“Most of the superfood tortillas on the market are based on alternative grains,” Tierney said. “They are all chickpea or almond, there is no fun or variety to them. So once again, we looked at the landscape and asked what we could do that was different and better and more appealing to kids and their parents. For health and color, we used superfoods such as spirulina, beets and sweet potatoes, broccoli and turmeric. They’ve only been in the market a short time, and they are already a hit.”

“Years ago, frozen meant lower quality. But Mikey’s uses the freezer in lieu of preservatives. Many consumers are ordering products directly through our website, and we have mastered the art of shipping frozen food because during the pandemic, many of our customers are avoiding stores. When consumers study products before ordering them online, rather than grabbing them out of a freezer, they pay more attention to ingredients and nutrition panels. They are holding food companies to higher

standards, and we are determined to exceed their expectations.”

Today, Mikey’s is a thriving brand sold at Sprouts, Whole Foods, Kroeger and both natural and conventional retailers across the country. And while Michael Tierney continues to lead Mikey’s both in the kitchen and the office, he is also realizing his other dream.

Before launching Mikey’s, Michael had cracked the code on filling a marshmallow with chocolate.

But there was no manufacturing facility in the world that could make a product that had never been made before. That problem was solved when Michael teamed up with Factory. His new partner underwrote the construction of a pilot factory to make Stuffed Puffs, which re-invents the s’more – the chocolate melts while the marshmallow roasts.

While he wasn’t the first person – or even the hundreth - to think of this idea, he was the first to actually do it. Launched for the 2019 summer season, the market responded so enthusiastically that Stuffed Puffs immediately had to begin building more capacity. Its new plant, in Bethlehem, PA, started making Stuffed Puffs in December, 2020. And the best s’more you’ve ever tasted is only the beginning. From Rice Krispies treats to fantastic hot chocolate to dreamy chocolate peppermint bark fudge, Stuffed Puffs is quickly becoming America’s favorite new sweet treat. u eatmikeys.com

resident.com | 67

food

MATEO MARIETTI

Creating A Culinary Community Through CookUnity

By Lauren Bens

W

hen times get tough, the cooks get cooking – and beyond restaurant walls – with CookUnity, the first ever chef-to-consumer meal subscription platform, serving up a scrumptious and seasonal variety of ready-to-eat meals from famed local chefs. By preparing meals in either CookUnity’s kitchen or their own, chefs can create meals which are delivered to homes across the East Coast, and soon enough, to the rest of the country. Argentinian founder Mateo Marietti is shaking up the food industry with this digital-first model, especially during these turbulent times. Marietti, who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and children, hopes to bring happiness direct to homes with fine fare created by their roster of talented chefs – they have even launched “The Creators Club” which brought nine of New York City’s most iconic chefs, including Leah Cohen, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and others to CookUnity. This exciting new concept, which offers weekly, fresh and sustainable items, is changing up the culinary world as much as an upside-down cake!

How did you get your start in the food industry?

My love for locally grown, hand-crafted food be-

68 | resident.com

gan with my upbringing on a small farm in Argentina. I formed a connection to quality ingredients through harvesting, farming, and preparing meals -- it was a true farm-to-table lifestyle. I got my start in the food industry in Buenos Aires, where I co-founded Sushi Pop, an innovative sushi delivery service that ended up revolutionizing the way people in the greater Buenos Aires region ate sushi. Our team was one of the first to conceptualize and use the now popular virtual, or “ghost” kitchens and we used them across six different brands over the course of six years. I grew Sushi Pop to become one of the largest food delivery companies in Latin America, and also expanded into 32 brick and mortar locations. I also co-opened several restaurants before moving to New York City and creating CookUnity.

What inspired you to start CookUnity?

To put it simply, my passion for creating a better food system. I believe we should spend our time solving the world’s biggest problems and food is one of the biggest since it affects our bodies (nutrition), our spirit (culture), our economy (jobs) and our planet (footprint). Food brings people together and connects communities and I want-

ed to create something that did that and amplifies local talent and businesses. I knew that I wanted to work with diverse chef talent and farmers to offer a variety of cuisines that represent each community uniquely, and from that came CookUnity.

CookUnity was founded on two ideas; to bring consumers an elevated, chef-prepared experience in their home and give independent chefs an opportunity to share their passion for cooking beyond the confines of a restaurant kitchen and lifestyle - enabling them to scale and grow beyond those four walls.

How are you attempting to shake up the food industry?

We are shaking up the food industry by offering a unique, daily meal plan that is unlike anything else on the market, and an opportunity for chefs that has never existed. Unlike any other meal-kit delivery service, our dishes are made by independent chefs and ready to eat whenever from the convenience of home, giving customers exceptional food without the hassle of cooking. We offer over 250 different meal options every week, prepared by the chefs themselves, and our options are ever growing. CookUnity’s digital plat-

form also lends itself to connecting chefs with consumers. From real-time meal reviews that can inform recipe adjustments to seeing what meals may be more successful than others, we can make necessary changes to the menus in a way we have not been able to do within the confines of the brick & mortar restaurant experience. For chefs, CookUnity’s model enables them to deliver restaurant-quality food to customers in a way that’s operationally manageable and aligns with business goals. For chefs who do own restaurants, they often have constraints, be it space restrictions, serving a finite number of consumers, limited reach outside of NYC, etc.

With CookUnity, chefs can amplify the restaurant and their CookUnity meals to millions of consumers beyond New York City. In the current climate, CookUnity has allowed chefs to rehire staff, reopen a restaurant, and/or supplement existing revenue streams.

Is the quality and freshness equal to restaurant quality?

Absolutely. We have an ingredient-led philosophy at CookUnity that prioritizes sustainably sourced proteins, seasonal produce, dynamic flavors, and balanced nutrition from real food.

Some of our ingredients are even brought directly from our chef’s private gardens in the Hudson Valley. CookUnity is focused on key things when it comes to food: using the best ingredients; encourage culinary creativity and make it convenient; connecting farm to kitchen to table.

What were your goals when you started this unique concept?

To create a third alternative for both consumers and chefs. Current alternatives for chefs are working at a restaurant cooking someone else’s menu day after day or opening your own restaurant which is very hard. Current alternatives for consumers are cooking yourself, which takes a lot of time, or ordering restaurant delivery that is expensive or not great food. We want to put the chef back in the center of the food universe and re-enable the dialogue between the producers of the food and consumers in a more conscious way. And as a consequence of this, provide much better selection and quality to consumers and a more fair and exciting way of life for chefs, doing what they love.

Do you accommodate people with various food allergies/cuisine preferences?

Yes, our chefs curate a vast variety of cuisines and allergy-friendly/diet-friendly meals to best accommodate your diet and taste. We accommodate Paleo, vegetarian, Keto, Mediterranean, whole 30 and vegan diets, as well as any dietary restrictions such as low calories, gluten, soy, dairy, low-calorie etc. We want to know your preferences (plant-based, kid-friendly, high protein) as well as any specific food allergies so we can serve up a menu that delivers on your preferences.

How do you think the restaurant industry will be affected in the long term?

In some ways it will be negatively affected, and in other ways I’m optimistic it will create the context for positive evolution for the restaurant industry. To start, I think it is time to really think from first principles and remember why restaurants exist in the first place, and what the best role chefs and restaurants can play in our modern society. Restaurants have been created for people to stop, recharge physically and spiritually. The first restaurant was created in France in the 18th century, the name comes from the french verb “restaurer”, which means to restore. As people cook less and less, we need to come up with the optimal way to solve that daily meal need while having restaurants be the best version of the initial essence of helping people restaure.

Describe how the subscription series works - can you try different chefs?

You can try as many different chefs as you like!

Choose from 4, 6, 8, 12 or 16 meals per week and we deliver them fresh, in our 100% recyclable, refrigerated box, for you to simply heat up - in the oven or microwave - and enjoy.

Who are your most popular chefs at the moment?

The most popular chefs at the moment are Chris Ratel, Akhtar Nawab, Andy Mendez and Esther Choi. They all have very different styles and stories and bring amazing diversity to the platform.

A special shout out to Andy who came to NY as an immigrant and after working hard in several Manhattan restaurants he is now building his own brand, employing five cooks and selling 4,000 meals a week through CookUnity! Those are the chef hero journeys we want to enable. u cookunity.com

resident.com | 69

food

AIRTAB

Flying in To Save The Restaurant Scene

By Lauren Bens

F

or the chance to win free cocktails while helping restaurants get back on their food-preparing-feet, just put your drinks on the Airtab tab. Airtab’s CEO, Dennis Cunningham, originally started Airtab to create a social community, but he is now taking it a step further by using his pioneering platform to help the culinary community during these trying times.

Dennis is passionate about paying it forward, with a program that runs on the iHeart Radio Network to announce a $25 million cocktail giveaway in an effort to support the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation as part of the #saveourbarsandrestaurants movement. The program partners include RedBull, Maxim Creator Network as well as other local sponsors such as Bahama Boat Works.

Dennis, whose father was in the Coast Guard, moved all around the country as a kid before relocating to Silicon Valley. He then became a promoter at a young age, bringing new visitors into bars and concerts, which is where he realized that entertainment spaces consistently needed foot traffic to stay relevant. After moving to Jupiter, Florida, he started a mortgage lending group which wound up doing $2 billion worth of transactions. This dedicated businessman and entrepreneur has always done things differently, and even began incorporating radio to do live endorsement media. With local celebrity morning DJs promoting the business, they turned saving mortgages into something trendy.

Aiming high is what Dennis does best, which is why he started Airtab, a social networking app that connects trending bars and restaurants with customers and offers them bespoke experiences. By letting the customer create the scene, Airtab makes dining more pleasant for the guest as

70 | resident.com

well as more profitable for the space.

“Younger millennials especially know if a particular place has the right vibe or is appropriate for their preferences,” explains Cunningham. “Our platform creates the ability for someone to see who is there – they can say ‘let me invite my friends and make our own vibe’. We’re very particular about the type of restaurants we include on the platform. We prefer craft cocktail bars, farm to table type establishments, unique music, and places that offer an experience. We even have one restaurant that features gourmet bacon tastings served tableside.”

Since Airtab is regional and based upon your exact location, your delicious dining experience might differ depending on where you are. The app, which populates with food and drink experiences near wherever you happen to be, is continuously evolving. The app is also able to collect important data which helps them learn about certain behaviors in a region. Do people in Florida prefer fish or a filet? Airtab is the first platform being used to figure out these types of patterns. By gathering this important data, they are able to help figure out which restaurants should be attracting people with certain interests, such as soft rock, etc. For example, restaurants can get free analytical data by hosting a pop-up mixology event and then keep track of which drink was most popular; they can now use this valuable data to become a better restaurant. This appetizing app is designed to create the Amazon effect by bringing traffic and reaching out to people, showing trends and creating experiences. Getting restaurants on the platform can be the difference between them surviving or not. It also serves as a live media outreach service, as people can download the app and everyone in their network can then see what is happening at the restaurant. Airtab is making sure to hit all eight cylinders and leaving no

stone – or succulent steak - unturned. .

With everything going on, their goal is to get people back into the restaurants over the next few months, especially with holidays including Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day coming up. By collecting data, they can also help restaurants plan events without ever having to worry about suffering a loss. For example, if a restaurant notices that vegan dishes are becoming super popular, they can do a vegan pop-up offer — customers would have to buy the special that day and redeem it the next night or another time. The app also doesn’t charge anything for this invaluable information. They just want to become the leader in the food place and are already on their way to millions of mouthwatering downloads.

Another unique feature of this food centric app is that all people and checkins have to be certified, meaning you have to actually be where you say you are, you can’t just post that you are there, something which is all too common in the virtual world of social media. Users can also capture content and show a timeline of where their friends are, all while providing a secure, enclosed environment. By using modern technology, they are creating a traditional type of community where people meet and interact in person, just like in the old days! This village mindset and mentality allows for people who are attracted to a certain type of restaurant to become a part of a community, regardless of age. “If you want a free cocktail, you have to prove you’re there, and this in turn brings in additional visitors and friends who want to be a part of it,” says Dennis. “This gives people a reason to populate and patronize a restaurant. The app might show you when there is a tasting or maybe a drink special if you show up at a particular time. It’s really a niche platform.

It’s about engaging people. After all, people are the entertainment, which can elevate a three-star restaurant to a five-star.”

In order to make the holidays even merrier, Dennis and Airtab launched the $25 Million Dollar Cocktail Giveaway, the largest ever national holiday contest in the history of iHeart Radio. This creative contest supports the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation as part of the #saveourbarsandrestaurants movement to help the hospitality industry stay afloat during these harsh times. Program partners include RedBull beverages where you can gift and receive RedBull and Sugar Free RedBull as well as Maxim Creator Network who reach millions of followers. They even have a slew of celebrity DJs and famous names such as Mario Lopez taking part. “When Covid hit, I started buying up domains with terminology about saving the restaurant industry. They say 35 percent of all restaurants will be out of business,” explains

Dennis. “We created a movement that is going to incentivize people with liquor and let them send holiday gifts that are super unique.”

The giveaway, which will reach more than 200 million people between the radio stations within the iHeart Radio network as well as participating restaurants, is the promotion that ‘gives and gives back’. Once they download the AirTab app, 50,000 people will be able to win a cocktail package with 50 drinks in their Drink Locker, part of the virtual storage on the app which is redeemable at any of the participating partner restaurants nationwide. This is definitely the generous giveaway which keeps on giving, as drinks can be shared with friends and family via Facebook messenger, Instagram, email or text. The program runs through February 11th and people can enter by downloading the Airtab app at airtabapp.com How does it work? Participants are able to redeem their first cocktail the moment they enter a bar or restaurant and then have to wait 45 minutes for the next drink. In the meantime, people are connecting and ordering bites from the menu, culminating in the perfect combination of food and fun while raising funds for the restaurant. Since most people sign up with Facebook, they can message others to join them and continue to connect, creating a unique and savory scene. The manager can also see the names of people who are engaging, giving them a sense of who their customers are and what they’re looking for. By creating partnerships, they are also helping restaurants discover new and emerging brands, such as liquor companies, while also helping those brands with small start-up budgets gain recognition. This giveaway also gives back by helping to revive the restaurant industry – the average person spends around $30 when they go out, meaning half a billion dollars could be raised when 50,000 people go out to redeem their free drinks.

In addition to helping a struggling industry, Dennis is committed to making sure that restaurants become even more successful after the pandemic passes through his app, which connects people with exciting spaces as well as with each other. By introducing restaurants to new brands and creating unique experiences, Dennis is the bold businessman who is bringing the restaurants back. “We are spending a lot of energy on this and there’s no other platform quite like it. We knew restaurants would be a hard-hit community and most restaurants don’t have large buying power, so we offer them value propositions which help keep foot traffic up and keeps them trending in the here and now. People are interacting and inviting friends in the moment to create a vibe.” u airtabapp.com

resident.com | 71

food

INDULGE IN LUXURY WITH IKRAA CAVIAR Arty And Anna Dozortsev

A

rty Dozortsev who is a beloved New York character and a successful entrepreneur is following in his father’s footsteps by bringing the best sourced caviar directly to consumers. Joining him in this endeavor is his gorgeous wife Anna Dozortsev. Arty is well known around town for hosting dinner parties at the most glamorous restaurants in NYC. There are always tons of beautiful girls and European Playboys with long names and longer titles. He originally followed his father Eugene into the liquor business after graduating from college.

They own a large distribution company called Dozortzev and Sons based in Elizabeth, NJ. They carry such Popular brands as Alarcan Tequila, Forever Young wines and Saint Arturo which you can find as Scarpetta, Tao Downtown and all NYC Serafinas.

But now let’s get to the caviar. It’s imported from different countries as production is no longer limited to Russia. Arty’s father Eugene was a pioneer in the caviar business when he took a chance by going to Russia’s Far East in the 1980’s and became

72 | resident.com

By Cecille Langtry one of the biggest importers of Russian Caviar in NYC. Eugene also owned , the award-winning Caviar Russe for many years on Madison Avenue before selling it. Caviar runs in Dozortsev DNA. Anna , Arty’s wife who looks like a Grecian Goddess came from the Real Estate business but has taken to Caviar Business like a sturgeon to cold water if I could be allowed to use this pun. She handles the daily details of running the business.

Anna has also been integral with launching new liquor brands such as Root Out whiskey for their successful distribution business, Ikraa Caviar enjoys a celebrity following, including actor Ray Stevenson and artist Domingo Zapata.

The hip brand will hand deliver a Caviar package to your place in NYC or the Hamptons. Their ViP package which starts at $1600 will be at your place within four hours of ordering it. The package includes Caviar, blinis, truffle butter and two mother of pearl spoons. There is also one for $4600 that includes A kilo of Golden Ossetra from Russia.u Ikraa Caviar.com

THERE’S A NEW NORMAL,

BUT PARADISE HASN’T CHANGED. FA L L I N L O V E W I T H C A P T I VA!

Stay for two nights or longer on this special promotion and receive: • 20% discount off our regular rates.

• $100 resort spending credit.

• Coupon Book with over $250 in savings in Resort outlets; enjoy family activities, restaurant savings, golf, spa services and merchandise, and more.

Travel Dates: 8/9/20 through 2/24/20 2 Night Minimum

Welcome to Island Life

Call 800.931.6600 and ask for the Fall in Love with Captiva Promotion or visit SouthSeas.com/offers Offer cannot be combined with other packages, promotions, Homes of Distinction or group rates, and cannot be applied to existing reservations.

Offer is subject to availability and may only apply to certain accommodation types. Resort credits will be applied at time of check-out toward applicable charges. Credits can not be used towards room rate, resort fees and corresponding taxes. Unused portions of the credit will be forfeited and not reimbursed in cash. Resort fees and room taxes additional.

#SouthSeas

escapes

NOVOTEL MIAMI BRICKELL Do Miami Like Never Before

By Simon Gusev

N

ovotel Miami Brickell will have you seeing Miami with new glasses, even if you’ve been to this vibrant and upbeat city many times before. The hotel, which always provides an exceptional stay with their elegant accommodations, is also joining its parent hospitality group Accor’s award-winning global loyalty program. When it comes to safety, Novotel does not mess around. Since reopening in the fall, the hotel group has been working with a team of expert advisors to ensure they are implementing the highest safety standards. From mandatory screenings to face coverings, all you have to worry about is having a worry-free stay.

Nestled in the heart of Miami’s flourishing finan-

cial district, Novotel Miami Brickell is the perfect place for both business and leisure travelers. In close proximity to the very best of Downtown Miami and Port of Miami, the hotel offers convenient access to top local businesses, delicious dining destinations, sports, arts and an outstanding nightlife scene. Some of the great attractions near the property include a 1916 National Historic Landmark, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and American Airlines Arena, home to exciting sports events and concerts. For those who like to shop till they drop, the Bayside Marketplace is only in a 5-minute drive, while The Shops at Mary Brickell Village is just a short walk from the property.

As an innovative full-service hotel brand, Novotel is heavily invested in maintaining its impeccable

image among all its properties. Novotel Miami Brickell aspires to demonstrate the next level of hospitality, offering their guests high-end amenities and accommodations to promote total relaxation and enjoyment in South Florida. Boasting 275 deluxe guestrooms and suites, the 12-story Novotel Miami Brickell is a charming residence, the perfect respite for those traveling for either business or pleasure – or both. All standard rooms are designed to satisfy even the most discerning clientele. You’ll be surrounded by Miami’s crisp seaside sophistication and rooms featuring spacious bathrooms with designer toiletries, plush beds with snow-white linens, complimentary WiFi, flat-screen TVs, stunning views of the city and and many more stylish amenities in your spacious

surroundings. Offering separate work and living areas, the suites offer chic comfortability. The gem of this Novotel is its Skyline Suites, with contemporary eco-friendly design, premium amenities and decorative décor.

Featuring 5,000 square feet of meeting and conference space, the property is an ideal destination for your next important meeting in Miami.

Besides business-related features, the hotel also offers a rooftop swimming pool, so you can relax after a day of sightseeing and people watching.

Hang out at the poolside Vista Pool Bar, where you can enjoy handcrafted drinks and soak in the sun with Brickell’s striking skyline and Biscayne Bay in sight. For those who like staying in shape, the

state-of-art gym has all the machines and equipment needed to make you sweat. You can also take advantage of the hotel’s entertainment and wellness programs such as Sunset Sessions by the pool, Full Moon and Sunset Yoga, inspiring workshops and Movie Under the Stars.

Unwind at Uva Bar, located in the lobby area, where you can enjoy delicious tapas-style fare with a glass of Chilean and Argentinian wine or signature spirits from the extensive beverage menu. Their happy hour will definitely make your trip even happier! For fine dining, head to Lima restaurant – a shrine to the rich and thrilling flavors of Latin American cuisine. Lead by talented Chef Benjamin Meyer, the restaurant offers small

contemporary plates with an inventive presentation. The menu fuses many cultures and traditions, shaped by the various cuisines, from Peruvian and Spanish to Portuguese, Japanese and Korean. For a once in a lifetime flavorful experience, we recommend sampling an extraordinary Watercress & Arugula Salad with orange, udon crisp, cucumber, wasabi peas and sesame-ginger vinaigrette. Pair your meal with one of the refreshing beverages the restaurant has to offer.

Surrender your mind and soul to the sunshine – and more importantly, to the stylish surroundings of Novotel Miami Brickell. u novotelmiami.com

escapes

THE DUPONT CIRCLE HOTEL Where History Meets Haute Design

By Thomas Lau

J

ust a short drive from New York City, it’s time to discover the best of DC at The Dupont Circle Hotel. From museums to galleries and historical sites, there is plenty to do and now an even posher place to stay in the nation’s capital. This recently redesigned space offers modern comfortability surrounded by history and some new surprises in store.

Part of The Doyle Collection, The Dupont Circle Hotel is located in the desirable Dupont Circle area, providing easy and quick access to all major attractions. Walk to the White House and other iconic sites in just 20 minutes. Earlier this year, The Dupont Circle Hotel undertook a major renovation before reopening in September. The result? A clean and modern space which perfectly merges with its historic façade. In order to make this memorable stay magic happen, Bernie Gallagher, the Chairman of the Doyle Collection, brought in some of the brightest talent to be a part of his designer dream team so that guests would be guaranteed sweet suite dreams.

The overall elevated experience, from the new lobby to redone penthouse suites, is mostly thanks to the innovative décor imagination of Irish designer Clodagh. Clodagh is a supporter of minimalistic but luxurious designs which she showcased most stylishly, all while encompassing her interpretation of Irish hospitality. The Clodagh studio brought the calming and solid elements of the Irish aesthetic to echo the Irish roots of this beloved hotel brand.

Both the penthouse and lobby exhibit the designer’s aptitude for merging ancient and cutting-edge elements into her interior designs. The redesign also shares Mrs. Gallagher’s vision, which can be seen with the heated terraces of the penthouse suite. In addition to Clodagh, Mrs. Gallagher also

brought in Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki.

Both designers are known to embrace the feeling of the 1940s, allowing them to authentically pay tribute to the building which was built in 1947. While Brudnizki focused on bold colors and textures in the dining spaces with his Nordic touch, Clodagh brought in details like live-edge wood and handwoven rugs which can be seen in the posh penthouse suites and luxe new lobby.

For an equally delectable dining experience, Martin Brudnizki worked on both the Doyle, a club-like bar with rich hues, and Pembroke, a posh space with palatable plates. Brudnizki is a veteran in transforming hospitality spaces including hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and more. He redesigned these two spots with differing yet complimentary approaches by bringing in his Scandinavian aesthetics: bold colors and simple furniture with lots of big windows to show off the natural lighting. At Doyle, you can sip on specialty cocktails reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s, as well as an extensive wine list, in a classic setting feature blue leather bar chairs and gold art deco chandeliers with panoramic views of Dupont Circle. From small plates to weekend brunch, you can enjoy the best of DC food and beverage culture without leaving the hotel. Featuring American fare with a global twist, you can savor breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between at Pembroke, which serves up fresh fish, handmade pastas, steaks and more. It’s time to dig into their new digs!

This haute hotel also offers a variety of spaces for private – and socially distanced events – for any occasion. With natural light and a gas fireplace, Foxhall makes for a cozy and memorable conference or intimate wedding, while the glamorous Glover Park

is a throwback to the 1950s with leather blue booths and a private patio. For a more modern affair, Dupont Ballroom has both indoor and outdoor space plus state-of-the-art technology.

Relax right in one of their penthouse suites, which really show off the fruits and flair of their renovation labor. There are five types of A-list penthouse accommodations - Signature Terrace Suite, Luxury Terrace Suite, Parkview Suite, Studio Terrace Suite and Studio Suite One King Bed. All suites feature heated floors in the bathrooms and wideopen views overlooking the capital. The Signature Terrace Suite, Luxury Terrace Suite and Studio Terrace Suite also offer private terrace access. This upscale yet understated property offers the option to book one suite or the entire penthouse floor of 12 bedrooms with private elevator, ideal for intimate events or wedding parties – or just a super socially distanced stay.

The other guestrooms in the hotel were also redesigned with fine details including a new color palette and furnishings. In order to keep everyone safe, the air conditioning system of the hotel has been completely replaced, creating more optimal airflow into the rooms for cleaner and fresher air. They also offer a fitness center, room service, valet parking, Nespresso Coffee and Espresso machines in all guest rooms, HD LED TVs, Malin + Goetz bath amenities, duck down duvet and luxurious imported linens.

Discover The Dupont Circle Hotel and the spots that make up this historically significant area before settling into your stylish accommodations. u doylecollection.com

resident.com | 77

escapes

VILLA ROMA Find Comfort In The Catskills

By Julie Sagoskin

W

ith endless activities, oversized apartment style suites and enchanting views, there’s no better way to get away from it all than with a getaway to Villa Roma Resort, a special Catskills hideaway in Sullivan County. Currently celebrating their 50th anniversary year, the resort offers seasonal activities, themed weekends and holiday celebrations. You will almost feel like you are in camp again – a camp with decadent dining, spacious accommodations, a spa and professional golf course, that is! It’s no wonder that Villa Roma has been a favored destination for families, becoming a passed-on tradition through the generations.

Indulge in indoor and outdoor winter activities, fine fare and never-ending events at this all-inclusive spot in Callicoon, New York. Whether you’re

78 | resident.com

simply looking to relax by exploring the grounds and enjoying serene spa services, or want to get your winter weather game on, Villa Roma is ready to customize a memorable vacation just for you, and it’s all just a few hours from Manhattan. The weather might be getting colder, but things are just starting to heat up at this resort which offers tons of recreational activities all-year round. The property becomes especially magical when Villa Roma transforms into a whimsical wonderland with festive décor, dining displays and a winter package including snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding, bowling, racquetball and even sledding for the kids.

In addition to daytime activities such as bingo, shuffleboard, and other indoor games led by their famed social director, Doc Holiday, their indoor sports complex features a fitness cen-

ter, bowling alley, arcade, bounce houses and more boundless fun. After dinner, you can enjoy nightly entertainment, from singers to comedy nights. This relaxing resort also offers an indoor pool, jacuzzi and sauna, as well as outdoor bocce and shuffleboard, hiking trail, tennis and handball courts, go-karts, bumper boats and so much more. With various dining options, including a main dining hall, plus a lounge and café serving Starbucks and Italian pastries, there is something for every person in your party. When it comes to fun, Villa Roma does it right – they are also wellknown for themed stays, especially Italian Weekend and holiday packages, plus mystery dinner theater weekends and everything in between. At Villa Roma, love is not in lockdown, which can be seen from the resort’s intimate weddings set against their unique and breathtaking backdrops.

With large rooms, ranging from a one room suite with separate living room, as well as a sofa bed and fridge, plus two queen beds and accessible private bath, to a deluxe room with large private balcony, two double beds, wet bar and small seating area, these residential style accommodations are spacious enough for families – they also offer adjoining rooms. Featuring two bedrooms, as well as a large living room and kitchen, the two-bedroom efficiency can comfortably fit up to six people.

The kitchen features full-size appliances and a large bathroom with separate bathtub and shower. From a romantic getaway to a family reunion, their different layouts are perfect for all types of stylish stays. They also offer timeshares for those who want to own a piece of this prized property.

This resort will definitely feel like a throwback to

simpler, more wholesome days, and with acres of land with working farms nearby, Villa Roma truly serves as a much-needed respite from today’s most unusual times. With social distancing and the highest standards of cleaning procedures in places, you and your family can rest assured that every precaution is being taken to protect the health of both staff and guests.

ter being purchased by Marty Passante, along with a few friends, Villa Roma came to life like never before - Marty eventually came to own the entire property and made his resort dreams come true with spacious rooms and enough event spaces to host thousands of yearly guests. Today, the property is known for being the most comfortable destination in the Catskills.

The friendly staff will have you feeling like you’re indeed a part of the family by the time your magical stay comes to end, and that’s all part of the charm of this Catskills gem. While today they have hundreds of full-time employees, 139 hotel rooms, 24 timeshare buildings and an 18-hole PGA Championship golf course, the original property, owned

by Eneresto Vindigni, was a simple, quaint boarding house with only 46 rooms and 10 cottages. Af-

This expansive resort has a become a major part of the community – their hospitable staff is more like family, which is why families have been traveling to Villa Roma for years. Many now bring their own kids and grandchildren to enjoy the festivities, from the fishing pond to the fun park and so much more. u villaroma.com

resident.com | 79

escapes

THE WHITBY HOTEL Walk Into Whimsy

By Betty Taylor

W

alk into wondrous whimsicality at The Whitby Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. With enchanting touches everywhere you look plus many stylish suites, this boutique hotel on West 56th Street between 5th and 6th offers the escape we all need. With plenty of unique spaces perfect for private and social distanced events, you will want to stay and play the Whitby way, especially with their staycation packages.

80 | resident.com

Find yourself surrounded by sophistication when you enter the lobby, which features one-of-akind artwork including modern marble sculptures by Stephen Cox as well as the colorful loom

by Hermione Skye O’Hea. From the sitting area to the restaurant, every space shows off the best of contemporary art and design – you might even find a modern, mixed media grandfather clock looking back at you. The inviting guest drawing room draws in visitors with a fireplace, more

detailed décor, rich fabrics, original art and a bespoke library collection. Enjoy a drink at the hotel’s honor bar in the back of the room – just take your own pour and leave your room number.

This haute property, part of Firmdale Hotels, which also owns Crosby Street Hotel in Soho and multiple properties in London, features the designs and décor of Owner and Creative Director Kit Kemp. Kit makes sure each location remains

unique while keeping in British style. She also takes pride in ensuring that each hotel is the perfect balance of both chic and comfortable.

Whether you want a change of scenery for work or just wish to get away without going far, The Whitby Hotel is offering staycation packages for all 86 uniquely appointed rooms and suites. These special rates include a bottle of champagne upon arrival and daily breakfast. Each room features floor to ceiling windows with views of the surrounding area as well as marble and granite bathrooms with a walk-in shower and free-standing bath. The rooms, which range in size and style, are all unique, with varying bold colors, artwork and furniture. Comfortable Superior Rooms, as well as Luxury and Deluxe Rooms, include a king size bed, workspace and sitting area. Their fabric headboards and matching curtains also add to the cozy charm. If The Whitby Hotel is the crown jewel in the hotel collection, then their suites are the diamond at the top.

Photo Credits: Simon Brown Photography

With a light open floor plan and large sitting area, The Junior Suite is a stylish space where you are guaranteed to have some very suite dreams. Wake up to the smell of the sweetness of your eclectic Junior Terrace Suite – and also your morning cof-

fee which you can enjoy on your very own private patio. Located on the upper floors of the hotel, One Bedroom Suites have a full living room, fireplaces, high ceilings and of course, stunning views of the city skyline. They will even arrange for al fresco dining on your balcony – perfect for social distancing in style. You are sure to feel right at home in your residential feeling home away from home. You can also bring the family and book their two- or three-bedroom suites, with the same A-list amenities, plus more space. Fea-

turing a wraparound balcony, you can take your staycation to new and haute heights with the Terrace Suites, which can be found on the highest floors of the hotel overlooking iconic buildings.

Extend your staycation at this special and spacious space which even has a record player and plenty of Sinatra and Beatles records, a cozy living room and posh places to focus on work – just take a walk on your balcony for lunch breaks. If you really want to be wowed, The Whitby Suite is perfect for celebrating special occasions or romantic stays. This two-bedroom suite occupying the entire top floor also includes a kitchen, powder room, and doors leading onto two sweeping terraces. With airport transfers, an in-room massage for two, breakfast in bed and even a private screening in the hotel’s luxury screening room, this is sure to be the most memorable Manhattan experience you will ever find. The suite is also ideal for smaller weddings and elopements.

They might be stylish, but The Whitby Hotel is also dedicated to remining safe during these times and have implemented new procedures and protocols throughout the hotel with a special health and safety team in place. Their gym is currently available to guests who sign-up in advance with one person allowed in at a time.

Snuggle up with a good book – there are hundreds to choose from – in their colorful Reading Room, which you will find on the lower floor.

Other unique spaces include the Anrep Room, featuring walls decorated with Anrep mosaic prints, and Araminta, with sumptuous wallpaper and paintings. The Whitby Bar and Orangery are also decadent dining spaces with delightful bites and a famed afternoon teatime. With a bold blue background and orange seats, you can even watch a film safely and socially distanced in The Whitby Theater. u firmdalehotels.com

resident.com | 81

escapes

RIVER HOUSE AT ODETTE’S A New Hot Spot Filled With History

By Julie Sagoskin

I

f there’s one good thing that has come out of 2020, it’s River House at Odette’s, New Hope, Pennsylvania’s most stylish and scenic boutique hotel and event space. With a members-only rooftop, seductive piano bar and weekly entertainment, this might be the area’s most luxurious new spot, but it’s also laidback enough for you to feel relaxed and recharged.

This brand-new property, which just opened its doors at the end of September, is filled with detailed décor, from the dining room to the guestrooms. River House at Odette’s is an ode to Odette Myrtil, whose popular cabaret used to sit on this very spot. With a vaulted-ceiling lobby Piano Lounge, leather couches, velvet textiles and

82 | resident.com

eclectic, industrial fixtures, the vision behind the hotel was to reflect Odette’s very own personality and French flair. The space is at once sensual and sleek yet comfortable and unpretentious.

You will also find unique art installations through this very posh property. Aside from their 38 guestrooms and suites, River House at Odette’s also offers a rustic yet glamorous open-concept ballroom with vintage accents. If you’re looking to book an intimate wedding, you will want to say ‘I do’ in this airy and enchanting space with antiqued wall coverings featuring love letters from Chez Odette’s past. If you thought it couldn’t get any more romantic than that, there are also floor to ceiling glass doors that lead to a private veranda and breathtaking views!

While this jewel box like space has so much to offer, enjoying a Sunday morning coffee on my own private balcony overlooking the scenic towpath and Delaware River was all I needed to feel like I had escaped to a faraway fairytale oasis – and all in less than two hours from Manhattan! The property is also conveniently located in walking distance to the historic art galleries, famed antique stores and gourmet restaurants of the artsy, straddling neighborhoods of New Hope and Lambertville, New Jersey. As you walk over the bridge that separates Pennsylvania from New Jersey and take in the awe-inspiring river and mountain views, you will see why the area has continuously drawn painters from around the world. If you are feeling adventur-

ous, they also offer bicycles free of charge so you can ride into town or on the path right behind the hotel.

With the highest standard of safety protocols currently in place, you can rest assured that you are safe while you sprawl out on your Frette sheets and fluffed white duvet which can be found in each and every room. The hotel’s modern rooms feature bold, colorful flowered murals, tufted leather headboards, green chairs and of course, stunning water or mountain views – or both! Step into serenity in your private, spa-like bathroom with deluge showerheads and eclectic tiles. You can also enjoy your own coffee bar.

With cutting-edge designs mixed with classic prints and pops of color, River House at Odette’s is adding a new level of sophistication to their surroundings while remembering their historical roots. Get away for a romantic getaway and book a king room with elevated river view or treat your girlfriends to a fun surprise with the queen residential-style room, which sleeps up to four guests. If you really want to experience the

opulence of Odette’s, the Bridge and Bow Suites bring on the glamour. You can really enjoy the sweet suite life here with elevated riverfront views, a state-of-the-art kitchen, dining area which seats eight guests, spacious living room and a floor to ceiling bay window overlooking the Delaware River. Let’s just say that these stylish suites will feel like your own very haute home away from home. All accommodations also offer Malin & Goetz bath products, amenity bar with Keurig coffee maker, under-counter refrigerator and wall-to-wall heritage flooring.

What could be better than stunning views?

Scrumptious fare to go with it! After enjoying a craft cocktail at their bar and lounge area, you can dig into decadent dishes made from fresh, local and seasonal ingredients at Odette’s. Their diverse and delicious menu features mouthwatering Mediterranean inspired flavors as well as fish, pastas and even burgers. Odette’s offers an elevated indoor dining room or balcony seating overlooking their riverfront ceremony garden.

You can also sip on a nightcap this winter while

soaking up the river views in front of their outdoor fireplace.

With a 70s inspired vibe and visually appealing cocktails and other bites, their now sold-out members-only rooftop is the swankiest spot on the Delaware River. Hotel guests are also invited to explore this chic space which features both indoor and outdoor seating options, as well as decadent gold and green colored furnishings, tiles and textures. From brunch to after dinner cocktails, Roof is the perfect mix of cozy and chic.

Known as one of the country’s most breathtaking and historical spots, Bucks County, Pennsylvania offers the best of both outdoor activities as well as cultural spots. The area is most known for their hiking trails, water sports, famed Bucks County Playhouse, galleries, farmhouses, yearround activities - and now, most importantly, River House at Odette’s! u riverhousenewhope.com

resident.com | 83

escapes

HARD ROCK ATLANTIC CITY

Rocking Out With Their Safe + Sound Program

By Lauren Bens

W

hile things might be a bit quieter these days, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City is rocking hard once again with their Safe + Sound program. Since reopening their doors a few months ago, this Jersey Shore hotspot is welcoming guests with their newly improved protocols and procedures which have been implemented to keep guests and employees as safe as possible. From the gaming floor to the Rock Spa & Salon and restaurant areas, which are all kept at limited capacity, don’t be surprised if you see a cleaning crew carefully disinfecting and monitoring each and every space.

You will also be able to sleep well in their modern and stylish rooms and suites – after all, you can rest assured that they take safety as seriously as their hard rock sounds! The Hard Rock Atlantic City team has worked hard with AtlantiCare

84 | resident.com

Health System to create operational protocols for all front and back-of-house departments and is inclusive of all procedures needed to ensure the highest level of safety. If you see that some rooms are out of use, it’s because after sanitizing guestrooms, they let them air out for a minimum of three days between guests. Their plan also includes the recommended protocols of Hard Rock International Guidelines as well as all of the baseline guidelines of the CANJ protocols from the Atlantic City Casino Industry. As things continue to change, they are keeping up with the latest safety laws. Guests will also have temperatures checked upon arrival and be made to mask up.

Hard Rock Atlantic City might be committed to keeping you safe, but they are still offering the same fun gaming activities, fine fare at their signature restaurant Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, and se-

rene spa services. Upon entering Rock Spa, you will even have your very own Safe + Sound attendant, who will ensure everything is highly sanitized before escorting you to your appointment. From hair and nail services to massages and facials, it’s more important than ever to make time for yourself. Escape the stresses of everyday life and relax amidst their soothing environment. Other rocking restaurants at this casino which is located right on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, across from Steel Pier, include Sugar Factory, Il Mulino New York, Kuro and everyone’s favorite, White House Subs.

From sports betting to slots and fun shops, plus one-of-a-kind memorabilia throughout the property, you can stay safe and sleep sound with their strict Safe + Sound program. u hardrockatlanticcity.com

WINTER wonderland

Book a room on the

adults-only concierge level and soak away your cold-weather blues. We’re open 52 weeks a year—and so is our Victoria’s Restaurant. 2 Olive Avenue & the Boardwalk Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Call (800) 33 BEACH or (302) 227-7169, or visit www.boardwalkplaza.com.

resident.com | 85

RoyalShellRealEstate.com | 239.216.9867

CAPTIVA ISLAND

BONITA SPRINGS

MARCO ISLAND

• Your Own Private Beachfront Resort!

• Spacious 5 BR, 6 BA, Gulf Frontage • Fantastic Captiva Village Location • Turnkey, Fully Furnished $ 4,895,000 MLS 220043725 Jim Peterson 239.470.2353

• Gulf Access Estate Home, Riverfront Lot • 2 Private Boat Docks w/No Size Limits • Expansive Outdoor Living w/Cabana • 3 Car Garage, New Roof & Pool Cage $ 3,200,000 MLS 220059984 Sue Ellen Mathers 239.877.2726

• Coastal Contemporary • Built in 2019, 5 Bedrooms, 4 Baths • Open Floor Plan Great for Entertaining • New Boat Dock/Lift $ 2,499,000 MLS 220051259 Justine Hine 239.784.3298

CAPE CORAL

ESTERO

• 4 BR, 3.5 BA, Game Room • 230'+ Seawall, Deep Water Direct Access • Resort Pool w/Swim Up Bar • Koogler Designed Home $ 2,000,000 MLS 220071786 Ginger Cross Walker 239.410.3599

• 3 BR, 3.2 BA + Den, 4,380 S.F., Pool • Great Room, Wet Bar, Outdoor Kitchen • Steps to Clubhouse, Near Beaches • Golf, Tennis, Beach Club, Fitness $ 1,599,000 MLS 220056535 Meli Chelon-Gumma 239.273.3974

• 3 BR, 2.5 BA + Den, Near Beach • Screened Pool, 3 Car Garage, Furnished • Lakefront, Updated, Beautiful Setting • Virtual Tour: www.509LakeMurex.info $ 1,225,000 MLS 220071257 Bob & Viv Radigan 239.691.6240

FORT MYERS

NAPLES

OCALA

• 4 BR, 4 BA, 4,000+ S.F., 2.5 Acres • 2 Offices w/Separate Entry • Gazebo w/Swing, Play House • Pool/Spa, Lake, 2,000+ S.F. Garage $ 985,000 MLS 220071271 Kiersten Capo, McMurray & Members 239.284.5847

• 10th Floor, 2 BR, 2 BA, Over 1,700 S.F. • Turnkey Furnished, Gulf & Bay Views • Upgraded & Updated, Hurricane Protection • Close to Beaches, Shopping & Dining $ 899,000 MLS 220066212 Connie Lummis, The Lummis Team 239.289.3543

• Near World Equestrian Center • 5.5 Acres, Triple Crown Homes Built • 3 BR, 2 BA, 2,305 S.F., Open Floor Plan • Updated Interior, Expansive Outdoors $ 874,900 MLS 608303 Blake Hunter 352.286.5674

SANIBEL ISLAND SANIBEL ISLAND

Holidays are happier in paradise

Warmth and sunshine can be your gifts this holiday season when you choose luxury accommodations in a private home or condo. Choose the shell-strewn beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, the lush, verdant fairways of a challenging golf course, or the rolling hills of Ocala’s horse country. Lose yourself in a tropical paradise and enjoy doing what you love with the ones you love. Book your stay today and get away #RoyalShellStyle.

BOOK DIRECT and useand code XXXX get 10%•to844.854.1693 20% off! • 844.854.1693 • RoyalShellNYC.com BOOK DIRECT save 5%toto 10% • RoyalShellNYC.com

Helping Sellers

Helping Buyers

Global Relocation Services

Helping Owners

Helping Renters/Guests

Annual/Seasonal/Vacation Rentals

Offices in Florida and North Carolina

BUCKS COUNTY, PA

escapes

PIPERFALLS Piperfalls is an iconic Bucks County retreat perfect for weekend getaways or a

THE DUANE HOMESTEAD The Duane Homestead is sited, majestically, at an elevated location

TARA Sited on an extremely shy 5 acre parcel sits Tara.The Genesis of Tara was a

STARVIEW This home, set on a large open lot, allows for a pool or tennis court or

BRAMINGHAM HALL Bramingham Hall is a magnificent stone Country Estate sited on 11

SANSSOUCI This home is nestled in magnificent Bucks County. Not only beautiful and

fulltime residence.This home, located in desirable Tinicum Township, is just minutes from Frenchtown, N.J. and about 20 minutes to the vibrant Hamlet of New Hope. $495,000

thriving and well-known restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine.Today, this famous establishment has been converted into a beautiful and well designed private home. $749,000

Solebury acres. The main home, consists of 2-3 bedrooms, but has all of the appointments of a proper stone Manor. A sophisticated Bucks County Estate, blended with the sensibility of a European Manor home. $1,975,000

amidst 67 fertile farmland acres. The Bedminster countryside moves in all directions and the open land provides ample opportunity for agrarian pursuits and/or a serious equestrian facility. $1,795000

just open space for family functions. The interior boasts the open floor plan and vaulted ceilings. The finished basement is ideal for large scale entertainment or a home theater. $949,000

practical, but as a LEED home, the size, location, and system in the house are all carefully selected for efficient and healthy living. $2,395,000

Art Mazzei

Art@AddisonWolfe.com Cell: 610.428.4885

550 Union Square, New Hope, PA 18938 • AddisonWolfe.com • 215.862.5500

HORTULUS FARM

Hortulus Farm, as featured in House and Garden, House Beautiful, Elle Décor, Veranda, Town & Country, and The New York Times, is arguably one of the most spectacular private gardens on the American East Coast. Comprising 100 acres down a 1/4 mile long, tree-lined drive, this 18th C. Bucks County farmstead boasts absolute privacy, 5 ponds, a waterfall, and 30 acres of “world-class” gardens, including lavish perennial and summer borders, a woodland walk, a birch alee, French and Mediterranean gardens, and vegetable and herb gardens.

The main stone farmhouse, circa 1793, and looks out across Fire Creek and the largest pond, a happy home to swan, ducks, geese, and a fanciful, floating Victorian gazebo. One of the two huge 19th C. dairy barns on the property separate 2 bedroom apartment and spectacular library/office space, the other storage for farm equipment and stalls for the farm’s animals. As well, there’s a separate 2 bedroom caretaker’s home, and a vintage corncrib, milk barn, aviary and chicken house. A massive circular swimming pool, the focal point and the end of the perennial borders, rivals most pools/fountains found in public parks. The overall property, which is in Conservancy, also allows for yet another residence with separate driveway. Hortulus Farm is an extremely rare listing that can evolve in myriad directions, The current stewards spent 40 years creating this masterpiece and now it awaits a new owner to add their own chapter to this truly one-ofa-kind piece of history and horticultural splendor. $5,650,000

Art Mazzei

Art@AddisonWolfe.com Cell: 610.428.4885

550 Union Square, New Hope, PA 18938 • AddisonWolfe.com • 215.862.5500

living dining

MODULAR CLOSETS Designing Your Dream Closet

By Lauren Bens

H

ow much serenity and peace-of-mind would a beautifully organized space add to your life? When it comes to maximizing closet space while maintaining a tasteful, modern style, Modular Closets does it all – and more. Modular Closets makes it simple, fast and affordable to get organized with beautifully custom designed storage systems.

Over the years, the brand, which is committed to building what is arguably the most important space in your home, began noticing consumer trends towards more streamlined tastes, like built-in custom furniture.

90 | resident.com

While this can be an extensive and expensive undertaking due to the lengthy and arduous measuring, manufacturing and installation process, Modular Closets had made the process of getting a designer closet more palatable and doable than ever. By developing and patenting the original modular closet system, they have been able to combine individual pieces and modules to create fully custom and creatively designed, functional closet spaces. With hampers, pull out drawers, and a plethora of accessory options, you can enjoy detailed storage designs for every space in your home including office, garage, laundry room, playroom,

pantry, mudroom and more, with the only limit being your imagination.

Modular Closet makes the design process a breeze by allowing you to design your space on your own using their intuitive 3-D closet design tool, giving you full control of all specifications and features. This will generate life-like 3D renderings so you can see your closet before ordering to ensure your new closet is everything you envisioned. You can also have an expert Design Specialist design a complimentary custom closet especially for you, according to your exact requirements and needs, providing you with a life-like 3D rendering for your approval. By designing your own configurations, you can get personalized touches, including hanging doors and other stylish storage solutions made just for you.

Installation is incredibly easy and fast and can be done with simple household tools. Each and every custom closet is made from high-quality elements in a family-owned factory in New Jersey. Everything is furniture

grade, easy to clean and super strong and sturdy – no bubbles or chips.

Most importantly, it’s movable, scalable and reconfigurable, ensuring it never loses value as it can always be broken down or moved around.

Having their own factory and manufacturing capabilities allows Modular Closets to eliminate the middleman and offer its customers manufacturer-direct pricing. Plus, your posh new closet comes with a direct manufacturing warranty, as well as lifelong friendly customer service and free shipping nationwide.

Furthermore, you can find organizing tips and storage solutions form Christina, their in-house organizer who features on the companies Instagram page and writes a blog, as well as a closet junkie Facebook page. By providing high-quality and personalized creations, Modular Closets gives you peace of mind- and most importantly, more shoe space! u modularclosets.com

resident.com | 91

living

WILL YOU BE THE OWNER OF THE LUX CHAMONIX HOME?

By Ann Grenier

L

e Lustre is a private luxury home in the Chamonix Valley of the French Alps, an epicenter of historical creativity drawing in the likes of well-known mountaineers and poets. Le Lustre presents the perfect restoration with the backdrop of Mont-Blanc.

Modern Chamonix is a painting comprised of a palate of interesting facts - romantic poetry dating back to mid 17th Century when Chamouny was discovered, coupled with a carriage road built in the 1860s to link Geneva to Chamonix. Add a railway line which first opened in 1901 and making history as the first Winter Olympic games debuting in Chamonix in 1924, to the fabulous art deco period all added to the texture and warmth of this beautiful alpine town.

Seven years ago, a talented interior designer, Georgia May took over a project that had been at the center of town which had been lying dormant and unfinished for several years. “It was clearly going to be a long haul project, but I was captivated by the potential for the project, the extraordinary views and the history of the building”. The first 24 months were spent acquiring additional adjoining spaces

92 | resident.com

and peeling the whole construction back to “bare bones”. This involved removing an existing roof construction on the upper floor, and designing and erecting a new mansard roof, hand double pinch pleated in copper surrounds complemented with a 9m (27ft) bay window (looking up to Mont Blanc).

The design required planning approvals which received a positive audience once the planners realized how sympathetically the treatment of this unloved building was being brought back to life.

The building itself was constructed in 1928, and the design concept was to reflect the period of the late 1920’s and early 1930’s while retaining the integrity of the original features of the building. The conceptual architectural design and the interiors were undertaken by Georgia working closely with two firms of architects — Alexander Stuart Design from Hong Kong and FedArch Studio in Chamonix (who played a key role in achieving planning consents and managing the project).

After achieving planning approval, Le Lustre moved from concept to reality over the course of two years. The result being a juxtaposition of artdeco meets contemporary-modern and includes

a pneumatic lift which fits perfectly within the original art-deco staircase, as well as hidden speakeasy with vintage trap and bar and original iron and draylon bar stools. Additional quirky design elements which also play to that romantic art-deco era include carefully curated tiles and mosaic in all bathrooms, restored ironwork and beautiful hand-crafted wooden doors.

As Georgia puts it so well, “Le Lustre is a puzzle of extremes to make a truly inspirational and beautiful property”. “It is very much not ‘alpine-style’ design and this is what makes it so individual and special, coupled with 360 degree views of the Mont-Blanc skyline and Chamonix Valley”. “Le Lustre pays homage to the past and to the present”.

With nostalgia comes romance of the mountains as so well documented by numerous poets, one being Percy Bysshe Shelley who composed Mont Blanc in 1816 ……“Mont Blanc yet gleams on high – the power is there”. As it was then, so it continues today – a breath of fresh air considering the year we have all been through. u sothebysrealty.com

profile

TIFFANY SORYA CEO: Novel Education Group

By Hailey O’Connor #MakingSmartStylishAgain If anyone could “make smart stylish again,” it’s Tiffany Sorya, the founder and CEO of Novel Education Group. Sorya is a renowned influencer and thought leader in the education industry, pioneering a movement of passionate students who love what they learn. “Because I hadn’t always been the best student, I understood why so many kids performed poorly, or why they couldn’t understand a difficult topic; I had been there.” This understand-

ing and relatability made her a great teacher and tutor. When she moved to Los Angeles post-college, Sorya continued tutoring to “keep herself on her toes.” Word spreads quickly in the City of Angels, and soon, Sorya was the private educator of Kylie and Kendall Jenner, two of the most famous teenagers America has ever seen.

Novel Education Group Founding Novel Education Group with two high

profile clients, Sorya knew she needed to adapt her curriculum to something unique and accommodating. “I felt I was doing a disservice to my students by providing a curriculum I didn’t believe in. So that’s when I really created Novel,” confessed Sorya. Novel Education Group is an elite homeschooling and academic enrichment agency focused on creating a customized and personalized learning environment. Sorya vets teachers, curriculums, and programs before carefully pairing each with a student. She estimates that her homeschooled students — whose curriculum is provided

by Novel’s partner, the online private school Laurel Springs — spend only 15 hours per week in class, nearly 20 hours less than the majority of students in America. laurelsprings.com

Specialized Academic Enrichment Beyond homeschooling, Novel Education Group offers Specialized Academic Enrichment; here, the student’s interests provide the inspiration and structure behind either a 4-week, 8-week, or 12-week program, which is available for high school elective credit. The Academic Enrichment program allows the student to better understand their interests, thus preparing them to pursue these courses in their college years. Novel Education Group also partners with Command Education, a high-end college consultancy, to ensure their students have a competitive edge when it comes to the college application process. commandeducation.com

Distance Learning “Because of the pandemic, so many students are remote through their own high school. The stigma behind homeschooling, or what I like to call ‘distance learning,’ has faded,” explained Sorya.

“Students are highly responsive to distance learning, and ‘tutoring pods,’ as we have seen in these last few months.”

Novel Education Group grants their students freedom, control, and accountability that, in turn, inspires deep love and respect for learning. In fact, Tiffany Sorya wants to reform the students’ perception of education entirely. “Our ultimate goal is to make students thirsty for learning again. Because being smart is actually really cool.” u noveleducationgroup.com

EXPERIENCE THE HUDSON VALLEY’S MOST ICONIC RESORT Enjoy breathtaking views, pristine hiking trails, golf, nightly entertainment, and much more.

Savor farm-to-table cuisine from award-winning chefs—all included in your overnight rate.

Rejuvenate with a nature-inspired treatment at The Spa at Mohonk Mountain House.

Join us on the mountaintop and feel your stresses melt away.

BOOK YOUR SPRING GETAWAY THE MOHONK TULIP FESTIVAL April 24 - May 8

MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND May 8-10

COUPLES’ ROMANTIC GETAWAY May 29-31

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL WEEKEND May 1-3

BIRDING & SPRING NATURE May 15-17

NEW! TENNIS WEEKEND May 29-31

877.243.3911 | mohonk.com | New Paltz, NY

profile escapes

COREY AHLAWAT The Leading Expert In PACE Financing

By Hailey O’Connor

Going Green Thanks to Corey Ahlawat, the leading East Coast expert in Property Assessment Clean Energy (PACE) financing, “going green” is easier than ever. Ahlawat, a New York based commercial banker and President and CEO of Centurion Financial, has been in the business for 20 years.

Withstanding the highs and lows of 2008, Ahlawat has learned to be on the lookout for “what’s next” in the finance industry. His watchful eye and innovative mindset propelled him to the forefront of financing, as he closed the largest commercial PACE transaction in the state of New York to date.

PACE Property Assessment Clean Energy financing dominates the West Coast because of Ahlawat’s Californian partner, Shawn Heyl. PACE can finance 100% of the costs of a building’s retro-fitting or new construction, as long as it is an energy efficient/renewable project. For instance, heating and cooling systems, electricity, and windows would be made more efficient. As the efficacy of the building is improved, no longer will your heat (and money!) slip out through cracks in the window. The efficiency of the building offsets the money you are borrowing, thus making the daily operations cheaper in the long run. As if that deal

96 | resident.com

wasn’t sweet enough, as the financing is property assessed, there is no personal guarantee. Statewide and county-by-county legislation must be passed to allow such financing, but when the East Coast finally caught up to its cross-continental friends, Ahlawat hit the ground running.

Recapitalizing Shrub Oak International School The ink on the PACE legislation had hardly dried before Ahlawat provided much needed capital to Shrub Oak International School, a now worldclass therapeutic day and boarding school for students on the autism spectrum. The pandemic had shuttered new student enrollment at Shrub Oak’s doors before they ever had a chance to fully open.

Ahlawat explained, “Shrub Oak school was put on crutches by COVID, saddled by the shutdown and needed to reinvest in making the school COVIDsafe for students,” notably because no schools were open at the time. Shrub Oak went to virtually every bank in New York, asking for more operating capital to fund coronavirus-related safety measures, such as air filtration and personal protective equipment. When they came to Ahlawat, he dug deep into the history and construction of the school; he recognized the campus’ clean energy facilities, and that this money could be re-

captured through PACE financing. He was able to loan them $7 million, millions more than they had originally asked for. Now, Shrub Oak’s doors are finally — and safely — open, with a years-long waiting list.

It’s the Future This success story epitomizes a new solution in New York, one Ahlawat seeks to parlay into troubled schools and locations when their money gets tight. He speculates that because of the “acute political realm we are in post-election,” the administration-elect will only further incentivize PACE financing and other clean energy projects. Government subsidies will bolster PACE, which is entirely privately funded, thus wholeheartedly motivating the clean energy initiative. In particular, Ahlawat hopes to utilize PACE financing in cities.

“It’s no secret that big cities give off the most pollution, and I would love to see the Manhattan skyline clear of fog and smoke. Clean energy is the only way to get there. It’s the future.” And once more, Corey Ahlawat is on the lookout for “what’s next.” For him, that means expanding the green — energy and loaned dollar bills—up and down the East Coast. u centurionfin.com

AN EXTRAORDINARY LUXURY EXPERIENCE IN THE RIVIERA MAYA The Royal Hideaway Playacar, an adults only hotel, represents the evolution of an all-inclusive resort.

Located alongside one of the Riviera Maya’s most beautiful beaches, stunning design, exquisite culinary offerings, relaxing spa, and much more come together to achieve a new level of excellence.

Royal Hideaway Playacar boasts the AAA-Four Diamond award distinction, is a member of Leading Hotels of The World and is also included in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2019 Star Awards in the category of “Recommended Hotels.”

profile

NEW YORK SOCIETY SCENE

By Clara Morgan Painter, sculptor, and former dancer Gabriela Gil has opened her first New York solo exhibition. The artist showed the first volume of her “Time and Space” series at a private opening in Soho.

Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation honored Leidos Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Roger A. Krone at its annual Collaborating for a Cure Virtual Gala ©LMG

Maribel Lieberman, Gabriela Gil ©BFA

Michael Nierenberg

Malan Breton, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin ©BFA

Chris Wragge

Hayley Henning ©Neil Tandy

Samuel Waxman MD

98 | resident.com

the

grand

d ame

Celebrate the Season with Ocean House a destination of exceptional character and spirit.

Embrace the magic of spring with a luxurious getaway package including a $100 resort credit designed to rejuvenate your senses.

Indulge, savor and fall in love with every moment of the season with us. Elegant accommodations, impeccable cuisine and unforgettable experiences await you.

866.905.4089 OCEANHOUSERI.COM

living escapes

Independent eyewear design handcrafted at the MYKITA HAUS in Berlin.

Amy wears VALDA. Photography by Mark Borthwick.

Cohen’s Fashion Optical 132 W 57th Street, between 6th & 7th Ave, NY NY 10019 212.581.4967 Eye Exams, 1-Hour service, Large selection of designer frames & sunglasses, Exam walk-ins welcome, Contact lenses, Shipping service available, Doctor on premise Mon – Sat