Mr. Sid: Boston Winter Black Book 2015

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Boston winter BLACK BOOK

2015

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CONTENTS

Holiday 2015

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FEATURES What Lies Beneath Photographer Michael David Adams submerges himself in his craft—literally. 16

Wine Cellars Raise the Bar These basement hideaways are merely functional no more. They’ve become inviting showplaces for family and guests. 22

departments

That’s the Spirit!

Invitation to Style

The holiday season is for good friends and good times. Here’s to looking and feeling our best.

Cheers! 30

Essentials

Destination: Morocco

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Enchantment awaits with these must-do activities throughout Africa’s northern treasure. 40

Thanks to you!

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Take the path less traveled to reach real holiday style. 8 food

The Charm of Cheese For holiday entertaining, no other food category matches its easy elegance. 50 SPiriTs

Cocktails & Cure-alls Here, we offer four tempting tipples to try—even if a cure isn’t what you’re after. 54

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mrsid.com

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BOSTON | NATICK | NOW OPEN: BURLINGTON | MGBWHOME.COM FEATURING: PRESLEY CHAIR, MOIRA PENDANT

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invitation to style

mr. sid 1211 centre street newton centre, ma 02459 617.969.4540 www.mrsid.com Store Hours

thanks to you! sneak peeks

Raise a glass!

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Travelin’ man!

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s the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, we’re giving thanks for a very successful year. Our gratitude begins with you, our loyal customers. It’s a pleasure to know you, see you, serve you and spend time with you in our Newton store. We appreciate your support!

Next we thank our designers and suppliers, who keep us stocked with some of the most elegant, luxurious, flattering, sexy clothing, footwear and accessories the world has to offer.

Third—and we can never say this enough—we thank our staff.

Our clothing consultants chose to work at Mr. Sid because they have a passion for fashion, and they derive a lot of satisfaction from helping people look and feel their best. We chose them, in turn, because we love that attitude!

Kudos also go to our Old World tailoring staff. They love a challenge, whether it’s a complicated alteration or a lightning-fast turnaround. Our tailors are driven by an innate sense of pride of workmanship. This pride is something that can’t be taught. Either you have it or you don’t, and our tailors have it in spades.

Please enjoy this holiday issue as a small token of our appreciation.

More than a gift guide, it’s a special issue of our regular magazine, with features on holiday travel, food and drink, as well as artful layouts on vintage fashion and home design.

Do stop by the store and see us when next you’re in Newton.

Meantime, we wish you and yours a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a joyous holiday season.

Barry Segel

Stuart Segel

tuesday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. wednesday & thursday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. friday & Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed Sunday & Monday Editor Mark Dowden Art Director stephen M. vitarbo Executive Editor rita guarna Managing Editor Carol Bialkowski Senior Editor Timothy Kelley Editorial Assistant Danielle Cookson Contributing Editor Josh Sens Contributing Photographers John Gillooly, Michael david adams Publishing staff

Publisher Shae Marcus Advertising Account Executives monica delli santi, Michelle Kaplan Director of Production and Circulation Christine Hamel Advertising Services Manager jacquelynn fischer Senior Art Director, Agency Services Kijoo Kim Production/Art Assistant Alanna Giannantonio Accounting amanda albano, agnes alves, Megan Frank Published by Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President Mark Dowden Senior Vice Presidents shae marcus, Carl Olsen Vice Presidents Rita Guarna, christine hamel mr. sid Magazine is published twice a year by Wainscot Media, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645, in association with mr. sid. Copyright © 2014

by Wainscot Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

Editorial Contributions: Write to Editor, mr. sid, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645; telephone 201.782.5730; email mark.dowden @wainscotmedia.com. The magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of unsolicited submissions.

Subscription Services: To change an address or request a subscription, write to Subscriptions, mr. sid Circulation Department, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale,NJ 07645; telephone 201.573.5541; email christine.hamel@wainscotmedia.com Advertising Inquiries: Contact Shae Marcus at 856.797.2227 or shae.marcus@wainscotmedia.com.

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It Looks as Good as It Sounds.

What do world-renowned pianists and prominent interior designers have in common? Both agree that a Steinway piano creates an exquisite central focus in a well appointed home.

The legendary sound of a Steinway comes beautifully wrapped in a piano case that is hand crafted and takes a full year to finish. The result is just as pleasing to the eye as it is to the ear.

Visit our showroom in downtown Boston or our newly expanded showroom in the Natick Mall to explore our selection of world-class instruments from Steinway, Boston, Essex, and Roland.

Boston Natick 855-219-1854 855-260-5627 www.msteinert.com

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essentials

street smart Take the path less traveled to reach real winter style.

Most of us wore out our boots, scarves and gloves last year. This year, it’s time to look good and feel good. These cold-weather accessories will stand up to the coldest days and the harshest fashion critics. They include water-resistant suede chukka boots by Andrea Ventura, suede shearling-lined boots by Gravati, Edward Green Dainite rubber-sole dress boots, cashmere Pantherella socks, umbrella by Davek, two-tone scarves by Ermenegildo Zegna, gloves by Dent and ribbed cashmere hats by Johnstons of Elgin.

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Photography - Eric Roth Interior Design - Lewis Interiors

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No matter the look, the right accessories will complement and enhance every outfit. Look for details such as 24K-gold frames by Randolph, jasper and obsidian bracelets by Eton and sumptuous leather briefcases, bags and wallets by Ghurka. Don’t forget a Ghurka flask; its contents will keep you warm from the inside out this winter!

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Just because you’re not at work, there is no excuse for not looking your best. On a brisk New England day, nothing looks or feels better than wearing a textured sweater with five-pocket trousers. These shawl-collar sweaters by Isaia, Eidos and Mr. Sid, made in Italy, are both elegant and warm. They’re perfect when paired with these trim and soft wool flannel dress jeans by Ermenegildo Zegna, Hiltl and Corneliani.

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S pettacolare!

Moniques Bath Showroom is very proud to announce an exclusive relationship with Zucchetti design, and the Savoir line of bath fixtures. Zucchetti is Italy’s leading maker of fine bath fixures and these exquisitely crafted works of art are now available for viewing in our beautiful new Zucchetti showroom display. The Moniques staff look forward to showing you this spectacular new addition to our collection.

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. e imerse themselves in their work l p peo e m s avid Adam So D l e photographer Micha submerges him self in hi s cra ft—Literally.

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hen he’s not busy shooting fashion and beauty features for magazines like Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue and Glamour, photographer Michael David Adams often can be found underwater, capturing surreal, ethereal, magical images. “Shooting underwater is incredibly complicated and challenging,” the New York City-based artist has said. “[But] the results, when done well, are simply astonishing. It’s very rewarding, after all the hard work of being submerged for eight hours, to see the captured images. I love it!” We do too. Take a look at the photos on the following pages and see if you agree.

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Reprinted from Living with Wine by Samantha Nestor and Alice Feiring. Copyright Š2009. Published by Clarkson Potter/Publishers, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC.

wine

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why relegate your best bordeaux to the basement? Take a cue from these Collectors of fine wine and mAke the object of your passion an integral part of your decor.

the art of

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Previous page, a dazzling “wall of wine� fashioned from recycled bottles marks the entrance to this cellar. This page, a deep, rich chocolate stain on the doors and shelving, coupled with a neutral heavy-pile rug, warm up this wine cellar and adjacent tasting room. Opposite, an original, hand-crafted mosaic of marble, limestone and onyx welcomes oenophiles at the entrance to another cellar.

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This page, a “cathedral of wine” features soaring 12-foot ceilings, graceful plaster arches and brick-like tumbled limestone floors.

Notice how the bottles are displayed horizontally to show their labels clearly.

Opposite, homeowners and their guests can relax, play a game of pool or enjoy a tasting in this wine-centered “entertainment complex.”

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A wall of glass separates this masculine cellar from the equally handsome living room, allowing guests to gaze at the 3,500 bottles while kicking back in a comfy chair. Take note of the brick columns, the floor made of 2,000-year-old Jerusalem limestone and the koa breakfront housing a collection of whiskey and other liquor.

Left, the perfect accessory for a cellar: a tall vase containing used corks rather than flowers.

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that’s the

spirit ’tis the season for good friends and good times. Here’s to looking and feeling our best. Cheers!

Shot on location at Boston Harbor Distillery

Photography by John Gilooly

Opposite, blue sportcoat

by Ermenegildo Zegna, burgundy V-neck sweater

by Mr. Sid, striped shirt by Eton, tie by Brioni, pocket square by Sid Esquire and sunglasses by Randolph.

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This page, brown vest by Ermenegildo Zegna, green sweater by Eidos, checked shirt by Isaia, sunglasses by Randolph, pants by PT01 and shoes by Paraboot. Opposite, plaid sportcoat by Isaia, grey sweater and striped shirt by Ermenegildo Zegna, pocket square by Isaia and beaded bracelets by Eton.

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This page, blue cardigan by Eidos, plaid shirt by Sid Esquire, burgundy corduroy pants by Hiltl, shoes by Gravati and bag

by Ghurka. Opposite, navy coat

by Corneliani, charcoal grey plaid suit and striped shirt by Alessandro Gherardi, tie by Brioni, scarf by Ermenegildo Zegna and bracelet by Eton.

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This page, suede jacket by Corneliani, navy sweater

by Mr. Sid, blue plaid shirt

by Corneliani, sunglasses

by Randolph, windowpane pants by PT01 and shoes by Andrea Ventura. Opposite, checked sportcoat by Samuelsohn, tan sweater by Gran Sasso, blue shirt by Van Laack, jeans by Joe’s and shoes by Andrea Ventura.

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This page, coat and vest by Waterville, grey sweater by Mr. Sid, checked shirt by Ermenegildo Zegna and bag

by Ghurka. Opposite, threepiece suit by Corneliani and plaid shirt, burgundy tie and pocket square by Isaia.

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destination:

morocco 10 can’t-miss adventures Enchantment awaits with these must-do activities throughout Africa’s northern treasure.

It’s little wonder the name Morocco comes from the Berber word for “Land of God.” From the Sahara’s golden dunes to the high peaks of the Atlas Mountains, this North African country’s magnificent beauty and exotic culture—a blend of Berber, European and Arab influences—seem touched by the divine.

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This page: A woman and small child stroll the streets of Chefchaouen, a city in northwest Morocco known for its buildings in shades of blue. Opposite: The thread-like red stigmas of the crocus sativus flower are known by another name: saffron.

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This page, from top: Should you decide to stay at the luxurious Royal Mansour Marrakech, the solicitous staff will be happy to arrange exclusive excursions beyond the walled city, such as luxury camping in the desert. The hotel’s magnificent reception building offers a glimpse of the opulence that awaits. Opposite: At the heart of the Royal Mansour Spa is a dramatic white wrought iron atrium, evocative of an elaborate bird cage. In the cool alcoves of this structure spa guests receive their initial consultation with a staff member.

cities, the most expansive ones are in the northern city of Fez, and Marrakech in the southwest. You’ll find narrow, winding streets and alleys lined with vendors—set up much as they were in centuries past. A few tips for your shopping excursion: Don’t be shy about bargaining with the vendors, beware of pickpockets and make sure you have plenty of dirham, Morocco’s official currency.

Climb the Atlas Mountains. Hardy travelers should pack comfy walking shoes to ascend this range, which winds through Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. The main trekking season runs from April, when the mountain snow begins to melt, until October.

Those in good physical condition might try reaching Jbel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest point at about 13,670 feet. The hike is challenging, but the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the vast Sahara beyond are well worth the effort.

Tour the palaces. To explore Morocco’s imperial past, stop by some of its grand palaces. In Marrakech, check out the El Badi Palace, a lavish creation of the Saadian dynasty built in the 16th century, and the Bahia Palace from the late 19th century. In the northern town of Meknès, visit Dar Jamai, a former private residence that is now part of

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Morocco is a bit bigger than California, so visiting its high spots requires several hours’ travel. Fortunately, trains here are efficient, comfortable and cheap.

For a Moroccan vacation you’ll never forget, squeeze in as many of these 10 experiences as you possibly can: Browse the markets. Herbal potions, colorful fabrics, pungent spices—you’ll find them all and more in the country’s souks, or urban markets. Though these bazaars are found in many Moroccan

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This page: a colorful alleyway in the Imperial City of Meknès.

Opposite, from top: a traditional Moroccan spice market; teapots and other wares for sale at a souk in Essaouira.

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Dar Jamai Museum, exhibiting local arts. Channel your own royal roots by lodging in one of Morocco’s riads, palaces converted into charming hotels in the historic centers of major cities.

View the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Once ruled by the great Roman Empire, Morocco contains some impressive Roman ruins from the 2nd and 3rd centuries in Volubilis, an ancient city-turned-archaeological site that’s an easy trip from Meknès. The spot is open to visitors from morning to sunset for a fee of about 20 dirham ($5.45).

Hit the beach. With coastlines on its northern and western sides, Morocco features a host of beautiful beaches. On the Atlantic coast, check out the ancient seaside town of Essaouira. Inhabited since prehistoric times, its powerful trade winds now make it a famous windsurfing spot. Asilah is also a must-see on the western shore, with sandy beaches, whitewashed houses and a lively festival held each August. If you’re heading north, check out the picturesque sands of Tangier, a seaside town on the Strait of Gibraltar.

Visit Casablanca’s modern mosque. While Morocco as a whole may evoke images of ancient, exotic cultures, Casablanca most often calls to mind 1940s Hollywood. But this historic locale is actually

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a vibrant, modern city that boasts the country’s largest mosque.

Opened in the early 1990s to commemorate the 60th birthday of a former king, the Hassan II Mosque overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and can hold some 25,000 worshippers—plus another 80,000 in its courtyard. The structure features a retractable roof, a 689-foot minaret that shines a laser beam toward Mecca at night and a vastly ornate CONTINUED...

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This page, from top: bright blue fisherman’s boats in the port city of Essaouira; navigating narrow Medina Street in the northern city of Fez. Opposite: Morocco’s trademark brew, mint tea.

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Ride a camel. While trains and taxis might be the best mode of transportation to most of Morocco’s attractions, there’s no better way to see the Sahara’s dunes than on camelback. You can arrange your trek with various tour companies located in cities bordering the desert, including Merzouga, M’Hamid and Zagora.

Beginners are advised to try a day trip first (long journeys can leave you tired and sore); adventurers might opt for a two or three-day excursion.

Try Moroccan mint tea. Amble the streets long enough and you’ll undoubtedly be offered this trademark brew—especially by shop owners hoping you’ll stop to browse their wares. Mint tea is Morocco’s national drink, and it’s regarded as a way to welcome visitors and relax with family and friends. Served in small crystal tumblers that resemble shot glasses, the tea has earned the nickname “Moroccan whiskey.”

Rock the kasbahs. Drive through the Dades Valley (between the High Atlas Mountains and the Jebel Sahro mountain range) to behold breathtaking views of lush oasis towns and red cliffs lined with kasbahs—ancient North African forts. Indeed, the sheer multitude of these structures makes it clear why the area is known as “The Valley of One Thousand Kasbahs.” For an authentic experience, try lodging in one of the many kasbahs that have been converted into hotels.

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prayer hall adorned with woodcarving, tile work and stucco molding.

Experience the Djemma el-Fna at night. When dusk falls on Marrakech, Djemma el-Fna—the city’s large center square— transforms into a fantastical world of acrobats, dancers, storytellers, musicians and jugglers. When hunger strikes, grab a meal at one of the outdoor food stalls or enjoy a relaxing repast in one of the cafés overlooking the hustle and bustle.

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the

charm of cheese For holiday entertaining, nothing equals it for easy elegance. In minutes you can create an imaginative grouping from different lands, ranging from mild to tangy, from a hard block to a glorious goo. cheese is bound to please!

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A warm, soft cheese is a sensuous pleasure on the tongue—and deliciously simple to prepare. Bake a round of Camembert (you can leave it in the box) and serve with toasted slices of French bread, sliced pears or grapes and an assortment of nuts. Almonds and walnuts are good choices. What to drink? Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Beaujolais.

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Parmigiano-Reggiano, the “king of cheeses,� is a must on any cheese board. Nutty and creamy, it pairs particularly well with pears, figs, walnuts, hazelnuts, olives, balsamic vinegar and, of course, warm crusty bread. A glass of bubbly Prosecco is the perfect accompaniment.

But if you prefer red wine, Barbera and Lambrusco are outstanding options.

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When assembling your cheese board, aim for a variety of textures and flavors—soft to firm, creamy to crumbly, sweet to pungent, sharp to mellow.

Some tried-and-true suggestions: cheddar or gouda, Brie or Camembert, Parmigiano-Reggiano or Manchego, Gorgonzola or Roquefort. It’s a good idea to vary texture and taste among the carbs too—sliced baguette, bread sticks, and “neutral” crackers. (Flavored crackers can overwhelm the flavors fo the cheeses.) Thinly sliced fresh fruit, figs, apricots, almonds, walnuts, jams and chutneys all make excellent accompaniments.

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Cocktails & cure-alls before there was ALKA-SELTZER or ASpiRIN OR AMBIEN, folks feeling under the weather relied on restorative remedies whipped up by local pharmacists.

Here, we offer 4 tempting tipples to try—even if a “cure” isn’t what you’re after.

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Recipes reprinted with permission from Apothecary Cocktails by Warren Bobrow. Š 2013 Fair Winds Press, an imprint of Quarto Publishing Group

s Corpse Reviver True to its name, a Corpse Reviver is meant to re-animate the dead—or, at least, the vividly hungover. A hearty dose of cognac soothes the pain of the night before, while the fragrant falernum rejuvenates all five aching senses. Falernum gets its name from an ancient Roman wine called falernian, which, legend has it, was so high in alcohol it could be set on fire. n 3 ounces cognac n 2 ounces calvados n 1 ounce gin n 1 ounce sweet vermouth n 1 ounce falernum n Ice

Fill a Boston shaker threequarters with ice. Gently pour the cognac, calvados, gin, vermouth and falernum over the ice, and shake briskly for 30 seconds.

Toss a few ice cubes into a short rocks glass. Strain the mixture into the glass, sit back and slowly sip that hangover away.

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c/o Fair Winds Press, an imprint of Quarto Publishing Group

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Absinthe Frappé These days, when we think of frappés, we usually imagine high-octane, sugar-laden, iced-coffee drinks. Traditionally, though, a frappé is simply a liqueur poured over shaved ice. This take on the frappé features absinthe, which has a reputation for alleviating aches due to its high alcohol level. Absinthe frappés have their roots in New Orleans, where these cooling potions could be enjoyed all year. n 2 ounces absinthe n ½ ounce simple syrup n 10 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish) n 3 ounces seltzer water n Crushed, pebble-sized ice

Combine the absinthe, simple syrup and mint leaves in a large martini glass. Add the ice a spoonful at a time as you stir the absinthe mixture gently with a bar spoon, so that the glass becomes frosty. When the glass is nearly full, top with the seltzer water and stir gently. Tear a few mint leaves and strew them over the top of the drink. When nothing else will shift that truly dogged headache, this icy concoction can help.

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Aperol Fizz Historically, the citrusy Italian aperitif Aperol has been enjoyed before, during and after lengthy meals to perk up appetites and ease digestion. It gently raises the spirits too, especially when combined with aromatic bitters and fizzy water. Plus, since it’s relatively low in alcohol, the Aperol Fizz is a sensible drink, so you’ll be less likely to overindulge. n 2 ounces Aperol n Ice cubes n 6 ounces sparkling natural mineral water (preferably one with a strong mineral flavor) n 2 shakes Angostura bitters n Lemon zest twist or lemon slice

Add the Aperol to a Boston shaker and fill the shaker threequarters with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds. Add a few cubes of ice to a Collins glass; then strain the mixture slowly over the ice. Top the chilled Aperol with the sparkling mineral water; add bitters; garnish with the lemon zest twist; and prepare to be transported to an outdoor cafĂŠ in Italy. The Aperol Fizz is so light and refreshing, you have permission to go ahead and have another!

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Mexican Sleep Cure Alcohol-driven sedatives were originally created to treat individuals who were overwrought with stress. These sedatives relaxed the body and calmed the mind through the combination of hot, strong liquids and even stronger liquors. Here, mezcal—a smoky, agave-based Mexican spirit—is added to a cup of spicy Mexican hot chocolate, and it’s very effective when it comes to chasing the sandman. n 3 ounces mezcal n 1 cup Mexican “spicy” hot chocolate (see below) n ½ tsp. vanilla extract n Dark brown sugar, to taste

Mexican “spicy” hot chocolate n Combine ¾ cup whole milk with ¼ cup heavy cream. n Add ¼ pound grated bittersweet chocolate. n Heat slowly, do not boil, and whisk constantly until smooth. n Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and sugar to taste.

Prepare the hot chocolate. Preheat a mug by pouring boiling water into it; discard the water after a few seconds. Add the mezcal to the mug, followed by the hot chocolate, and then doctor it with the vanilla extract and sugar. Sip, and sleep is sure to follow.

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Coconut Cooler In the Caribbean, pharmacists of days gone by might have been called on to help patients counter the effects of too much sun. Their “prescription” was probably a simple one—potassium-packed coconut water for hydration (it has more potassium than two bananas) and local rum to ease the sufferer’s body and mind. The best part is, there’s no glass to clean afterward. n 1 large coconut, chilled n 6 ounces Rhum Agricole

Chill the coconut by keeping it on ice overnight, or by storing it in the refrigerator. Using a drill, puncture three holes in the coconut. (But don’t discard the precious water inside!) In the islands, a machete is often used to punch holes in coconuts. Some people who use machetes are missing their fingertips. Don’t be one of them.

Add the Rhum Agricole through one of the holes, using a funnel if necessary.

Stick a straw into each of the holes, and sip the contents while cheek-tocheek with a close friend. Serves 2.

holiday 2015

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