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Five of New York’s Iconic Buildings

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Bespoke Concierge Magazine
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For well over a century, New York City has summoned architects from all over the world to both work and garner artistic inspiration. The city is teeming with awe-inspiring architecture, which also help demonstrate its illustrious past. One of the first buildings erected in Manhattan was the Fraunces Tavern; built as a house in 1719, the venue became a tavern in 1762 and has essentially remained so ever since. In 1890 the city got its first skyscraper, which housed a newspaper, in the form of the New York World Building; also known as the Pulitzer Building, this was the first structure built higher than the spire on the city’s Trinity Church.

And the story continues to unravel: One of the latest masterpieces can be found downtown, where One World Trade Center pays homage to the iconic structure that preceded it. Whether you appreciate towering skyscrapers, modern museums or historical houses, New York City has it all. Though there are many great stories and architectural destinations to choose from, visits to these five landmarks offer a comprehensive view of the framework—and history—of the Big Apple.

 

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Courtesy of Grand Central Station

Grand Central Terminal

Given the building’s notoriety as a transportation hub for city slickers, it’s hard to believe that the Grand Central Terminal as we know it has been around since 1913. The original structure, constructed in 1871, was known as Grand Central Depot before it was renovated and expanded. With an estimated 750,000 people visiting the terminal each day, not only does this edifice accomodate city dwellers, it also acts as a meeting spot, shopping center, dining destination and event space. And yet, it was almost destroyed. In the mid-1970s there were plans to demolish the architectural gem, as was previously done to the old Pennsylvania Station in 1963. Thanks to the conservationists and the influence of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the terminal persevered. Today guests and commuters alike may take in the historic 13-foot Tiffany clock that hangs above the entrance before wandering inside to marvel at the vaulted ceiling’s famous zodiac constellations painting by French artist Paul Helleu.

The original Grand Central Terminal building was designed by the architectural firms Reed & Stem and Warren & Wetmore. Within the tiered concourse you will see Tennessee marble flooring, Botticino marble in the decorative trim and imitation Caen stone walls. And the magnificent details don’t end there: Visitors will also discover bronze and stone carvings and awe-inspiring chandeliers. And, of course, a must-see destination is the Grand Central Oyster Bar and Restaurant, one of the oldest restaurants in the city that not only offers a unique setting and tasty bivalves, but also some of New York’s best people-watching.

 

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Photo by David Heald

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

When you see the one-of-a-kind spiraling edifice that houses New York City’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, it’s easy to understand how this building—one of many that house the city’s art collections—became so notable. Built in 1959, it was designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright and is said to be the most significant project of the later end of his career. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation had tasked Wright in 1943 with the creation of a space for its Museum of Non-Objective Painting (established in 1939) and the artist accepted. Little did Wright know that it would take more than 15 years, six sets of plans and over 700 sketches before the building would come to fruition. In the design, Wright wanted to create a “temple of spirit,” as he was instructed by Hilla Rebay, the museum’s director and curator of the foundation during that time.

Once you step inside the Guggenheim, the feeling of otherworldliness indeed exudes from the inverted structure and endless ascending ramps which seem to lead visitors skyward. This unique floor plan complements the art that the structure contains, as the gallery can be experienced in one long, continuous path. Here, visitors can see intimate modern art showings. Guests also have the benefit of experiencing the structure’s expansion and renovations, which began in the 1990s when an eight-story tower was added and major interior changes were completed in the iconic structure.

 

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Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is easily one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world. After all, it’s the one King Kong climbed in the 1933 film with a screaming Fay Wray in his fist, and it has been featured in numerous other blockbusters since its official opening in 1931. When the ribbon was cut, the building, which boasts 102 floors, became the world’s tallest man-made structure; today, roughly 20 buildings worldwide have surpassed its height.

The Empire State Building’s design comes thanks to architects at Shreve, Lamb & Harmon Associates, who not only made this iconic figure what it is, but were also able to raise the building by an impressive four-and-a-half-stories per week during construction. In 2006, it celebrated its 75th anniversary and its ownership announced major plans for the Empire State ReBuilding initiative, which included complete interior renovations as well as a groundbreaking objective of making the building more energy-efficient. Today, the art deco lobby’s recreation of the original gold and aluminimum ceiling remains a highlight.

While the inside of the building leaves viewers gawking, its exterior proves just as remarkable. Every day the skyscraper’s crown changes color, a special effect courtesy of the LED light system implemented in 2012, which is capable of emitting 16 million different colors. The building chooses color schemes with significant or timely meanings. For example, silver and red in honor of the Tony Awards and green for Earth Day. And while the Empire State Building remains an architectural masterpiece in itself, with the 86th and 102nd floor observatories offering 360-degree views, it also affords visitors the ability to see another equally stunning sight: New York City from above.

 

Chrysler Building

Towering at over 1,000 feet, when this skyscraper was completed in 1930 it was the world’s tallest. Unfortunately, that title was short-lived, with the compleition of the Empire State Building one year later. But that hasn’t made this famous structure any less marvelous or deserving of its registration as a National Historic Landmark.

Modern visitors can still see the glittering art deco details put in by architect William Van Alen. This includes the stainless steel crown featuring shiny gargoyles in the shape of American eagles, and sunbursts rising in layers, which have the unique aspect of giving some of the floors triangular vaulted windows. Also on display are the aspects that came from its namesake, Chrysler automobiles, which include radiator caps along the lower setbacks and the ornamentations found on the car’s wheels. While the Chrysler Corporation did have offices in the building until the 1950s, Walter P. Chrysler paid out of pocket for its construction, leaving the deed to his heirs instead of the company.

Today, the 77-floor building boasts more than 2 million rentable square feet, and it’s leased by a diverse array of tenants across many industries. It’s also reconized for being certified LEED Gold for Existing Buildings by the U.S. Green Building Council. All its inhabitantas may enjoy the 360-degree views of Manhattan—including the East River and Central Park—and its surrounding neighborhoods, as well as the building’s historically renovated lobby and elevators, and direct access to Grand Central Terminal.

 

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Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Most people know this Beaux-Arts landmark as The New York Public Library, instantly recognizable thanks, in part, to Patience and Fortitude—the duo of famous marble lions that stand sentry in front of the building. Located on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building became what it is today due to the melding of two prominent but failing institutions: the Astor and Lenox libraries. In an effort to preserve their treasures and still maintain the public libraries, the two venues joined with the Tilden Trust—of prominent one-time governor Samuel J. Tilden—to create The New York Public Library, of which the first cornerstone was laid in November 1902. Dr. John Shaw Billings, who was a renowned librarian, helped design the building with the architecture firm Carrère & Hastings. For the official dedication of the library nearly a decade later, more than 1 million books were brought inside in the building.

Today, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is part of The New York Public Library’s four major research libraries, though it’s widely considered to be the main branch. More than 17 million people visit the National Historic Landmark each year; researchers flock to the miles of shelves and visitors can wander the halls and marvel at rooms such as the unparalelled Rose Main Reading Room, which boasts 42 oak tables on marble bases. Of course, there is also Stephen A. Schwarzman Building’s exceptional collection of some 15 million tomes and other items ranging from ancient Japanese scrolls to baseball cards, contemporary novels and medieval manuscripts.

 

By Linnea Covington

Visit These Los Angeles Whiskey Bars

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Bespoke Concierge Magazine
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Call it your grandfather’s drink if you must, but there’s no denying that whiskey is in the midst of a long renaissance. The beloved brown liquor—bottled in countries ranging from Scotland to Australia and Japan—is one of the most globally popular spirits on the market, and its enduring appeal only continues to increase as the craft cocktail movement does, too.

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For Jeremy Lake, one of the owners of the Hollywood-based bar Lost Property, much of the spirit’s allure is attributed to its status as a fundamental building block of modern mixology. “A lot of old classic cocktails that people have been drinking for years are whiskey based, so if you’re going to go back and taste the classics, you’re going to have to learn to like whiskey because it’s called for so often,” Lake explains. “It’s also a good quality craft product, and people enjoy knowing they’re drinking something that took a lot of time … to make.”

Along with the advent of the spirit’s rebirth has come a host of whiskey-themed social components, including private membership clubs, tastings moderated by trained experts and high-end, oftentimes exclusive whiskey rooms that serve as forums for fans of the centuries-old liquor. Los Angeles, in particular, has become a hub of whiskey culture, with plenty of new bars springing up across the metropolitan area since 2007, when Seven Grand first opened its doors downtown.

 

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Seven Grand, which opened in May 2007, was at the forefront of the whiskey revival in downtown Los Angeles. (Photo by Jody Tiongco)

 

Time-Honored Traditionalist

When it comes to LA-based whiskey bars, Seven Grand is inarguably the granddaddy of them all. Opened in May 2007, the low-lit, wood-paneled bar immediately preceded two cultural shifts in Southern California—the whiskey revival and the reinvigoration of downtown LA—and currently houses one of the largest collections of premium whiskey on the West Coast.

“Seven Grand is the mecca for whiskey,” says Andrew Abrahamson, director of operations for single spirit bars and strategic partnerships at 213 Hospitality, which owns Seven Grand. Since its opening, Abrahamson says, patrons’ relationships with spirits have matured in the same way they have with food: The focus has shifted to bolder flavors with stories behind them. “Whiskey plays perfectly into that because the person putting a whiskey together really has a big imprint on it,” he says.

At Seven Grand, bartenders encourage visitors to explore whiskeys (and whiskey-producing regions) they might ordinarily discount, like Mackmyra’s single malt from Sweden. To introduce drinkers to new bottles, the bar hosts its own Whiskey Society, a program that connects whiskey fans with master distillers, brand ambassadors and other industry heavyweights in a setting that’s intimate, yet never intimidating. “People can ask nerdier questions, and the ambassadors will really break down the DNA of their whiskeys, but we’ve also always pushed really hard to make sure it doesn’t get pretentious,” Abrahamson says. “There can be a weird need to feel like you know a lot about whiskey, but it’s just like anything else: The more you learn, the more you realize you don’t know anything.”

Many of the Whiskey Society’s meetings take place at Bar Jackalope, in the space’s 12-seat “hidden” room dedicated to Japanese whiskeys, where jazz music plays from a vintage record player and liquor lockers hold bottles inscribed with the names of the society members who own them. Together, the selections at both bars comprise 900 different whiskeys, roughly 100 of which are exclusive to Bar Jackalope. It’s an excellent setting to enjoy a highball—Japanese whiskey paired with soda water and rock-solid ice from the bar’s medical-grade freezer—or a flight of four or five whiskeys in smaller portions.

“We encourage people to try stuff blindly and trust their palate,” Abrahamson adds. “If you’re coming in to do a flight, just give us your price range and we’ll pour you four or five different whiskeys—you’ll be blown away by what you liked and thought you might not like as much.” (515 W. 7th St.; 213-614-0736)

 

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Miro, which recently made its debut in LA’s Financial District, has its own underground lounge dedicated to whiskey. (Photo by Roman Udalov)

 

Subterranean Secret

One of the more recent additions to downtown LA’s Financial District, Miro isn’t only a whiskey bar, but also a restaurant complete with its own underground, 25-seat Whiskey Lounge boasting 500 bottles of the spirit. Reflecting what the restaurant refers to as hyper-seasonality, Miro’s menu spotlights a variety of Mediterranean flavors, incorporating the cuisines of Greece, Italy, Spain and North Africa in dishes like wood-grilled peach, lamb tagine and yellowtail crudo.

So where does whiskey fit into all this? “I don’t think there’s necessarily a direct connection as far as flavors go, but as far as philosophy goes, our chef is going to the farmers market almost every single day, and all our dishes try to celebrate food that comes from a place or a farmer with a name and a story. It’s not from a warehouse or a factory,” says Ben Scott, one of Miro’s whiskey masters. “The spirits selection we have here reflects that same set of ideals. We’re using spirits that come from tradition and show some terroir.”

That philosophy translates into a collection rife with exotic, internationally sourced whiskey releases from brands such as Port Ellen, a cult favorite Scotch distillery that closed in 1983, rendering its bottles extremely rare, and Lark, a Tasmania-based producer. “Most people don’t think of Australia as being a boomtown for whiskey, but the English left, among other things, a good tradition of Scotch-drinking pretty much anywhere they colonized,” Scott says. “As a result, we have a lot of good stuff from both Australia and India.”

Heightening the experience is the lounge’s decor, which includes brick walls, crystal barware, jewel-shaped ice and a hardbound book that features the stories of every bottle available at the bar. The goal, Scott explains, is experimentation. To that end, the bar serves all its whiskeys in smaller 1- or 2-ounce pours, as well as by the bottle.

“You should be coming here to eat something you don’t cook at home and drink something you don’t drink at home,” Scott says. “When you put yourself in the hands of a knowledgeable bartender, you have the opportunity to have your eyes opened to things you might fall in love with.” (888 Wilshire Blvd.; 213-988-8880)

 

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Lost Property boasts selections from Breaker Bourbon and Good Honest Whiskey. (Photo by Charles Contreras)

Retro Renegade

Meanwhile, at the famous intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Hollywood, guests will find Lost Property, the brainchild of veteran LA bartender Jeremy Lake. Outfitted in midcentury-style furnishings, and featuring unique design details like light fixtures made from empty whiskey decanters, the space is something of a throwback to the dark, moody nightspots of yesteryear, but its selection of whiskeys, other spirits and craft beers is a testament to the progression of contemporary distillation. In fact, some of Lake’s personal favorite brands include Breaker Bourbon, a newer whiskey distilled in Santa Barbara County, and the Sacramento, Calif.-based Corti Brothers’ Good Honest Whiskey, a deep-toned American whiskey that’s aged in old wine barrels.

When it comes to rare whiskeys, though, Lake is fiercely proud of one find in particular: “I have an Old [John E.] Fitzgerald [Very Special Reserve 20 Year] … which is actually whiskey from the old Stitzel-Weller Distillery,” he says. “Technically speaking, it’s original Pappy Van Winkle juice. The Pappy Van Winkle we have now comes from Buffalo Trace Distillery, but the bottle of Fitzgerald I have at the bar is from when Stitzel-Weller was still around, so when that bottle is gone, there’s no more of that.”

Lake now credits his expansive whiskey knowledge to his professional background,which includes a laundry list of stints behind the bar at shuttered restaurants like Rivera and Playa, where he trained with the legendary LA bartender Julian Cox, and game-changers such as Soho House and Tal Ronnen’s Crossroads Kitchen—as well as his love of trial-and-error research. Years of seeking out and drinking different whiskeys have resulted in a curated selection of around 100 bottles behind the bar at Lost Property. And yet, like most people with nostalgic memories of the first time they drank whiskey, Lake still remembers his first bottle—or, in this case, his first jar.

“I was celebrating my 21st birthday, and my great-grandpa took a Mason jar out of his closet and had me drink it,” he reminisces. “I can’t confirm whether that was corn whiskey or gasoline; in fact, I’m still not sure which one it was.” (1704 Vine St.; 323-987-4445)

 

By Tess Eyrich

New York Fall/Winter 2016

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Bespoke Concierge Magazine
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Los Angeles Fall/Winter 2016/2017

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San Francisco Fall/Winter 2016/2017

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Beautiful Casinos for a Luxurious Destination Wedding

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Guest Contributor
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Who says that casinos aren’t romantic? These days, it seems like everyone is taking their wedding to a casino, which doesn’t come as a shock given the world-class food, amazing architecture, and the spectacular amenities at these entertainment complexes. Perhaps Las Vegas was the primary influence in the growth of casino weddings since the gambling capital also happens to be a mecca for nuptials, with around 100,000 couples getting married every year.

There’s something quite exclusive about casinos, and while the lack of dress code in American gaming facilities says otherwise, casino patrons enjoy the luxury treatment provided by the resort staff, which is why they’re more inclined to upgrade to VIP services in terms of both gaming options and non-gaming offerings like they would if they were dealing with online operator services. With the high quality services they are known for, casino resorts have not only become the destination for gambling enthusiasts, but they’ve also transformed into the premiere venue for elite and sophisticated celebrations, such as a wedding.

Ready to turn your fantasy wedding into a reality? Here are three casinos that will make all your wedding dreams come true:

 

Bellagio wedding

Bellagio in Las Vegas, Nevada

No one does a casino wedding better than Las Vegas. Voted one the world’s most beautiful casinos across the Web, Bellagio is a five-star rated hotel that exudes out luxury. Have your guests witness you and your partner exchanging vows in one of their many chapels, decorated with hues of champagne and Italian opulence. If you prefer an outdoor wedding, the Fountain Courtyard is a dreamy setting designed to mirror a Tuscan landscape. Another option is to have the ceremony at Terrazza di Sogno that has a terrace overlooking the Lago di Como. Bellagio offers a range of packages, from definitive packages like their Valentine’s Day Special to seasonal offers that often include discounts. No minor detail will be overlooked at the Bellagio, as the event planners will take care of everything from wedding accessories and keepsakes to live webcasting.

 

Sun City wedding

Sun City Resort in Rustenburg, South Africa

Sun City Resort opened its doors back in 1979 with the intention of giving South Africans a taste of Las Vegas in the African savanna, offering countless attractions that cater to every interest. The golf courses, the water park, safari trips, and the magnificent casino will keep your wedding party busy while you sort out any last minute details. With four exclusive hotels on Sun City premises, the selection of venues can accommodate anywhere between 10 to 10,000 guests. Start your event off with your ceremony at the Wind Chime Chapel located in the Lost City of Gardens on the Baobab Trail, then head to one of the numerous venues for the reception. After a long night of celebration, you and your guests can retreat back to your luxurious rooms.

 

Ritz London wedding

The Ritz London, England

Possibly the world’s most exclusive casinos, The Ritz London is undisputedly at the height of British sophistication. A bride looking timelessness and class should look no further than this venue. The hotel has previously hosted a selection of high society events, including Royal birthday parties. Most of these affairs have taken place in the adjoining 18th-century mansion William Kent House, which consists of six lavish private dining rooms, various reception areas, and even a secret garden that leads to Green Park. Trust the coordinators as they provide you with decadent dishes from their restaurant chefs and flower arrangements from one of London’s most sought-after florists. The architecture, distinguished location, ornate interiors, and the garden make for that fairytale wedding that most of us can only imagine in our wildest dreams. You can learn more about their Once Upon a Lifetime wedding package on their website.

On the Road

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Bespoke Concierge Magazine
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Point Bonita Lighthouse

Visitors in need of a break from San Francisco city life need only take a page out of Jack Kerouac’s renowned roman à clef, “On the Road,” and hop in the car for a daytrip to nearby destinations. The 1957 novel details a cross-country adventure through America, and you can embark on your own while staying in the City by the Bay—scenic views and fine dining await in nearly every direction.

Kerouac himself is known to have traveled frequently in the 1940s and 1950s to Marin, an affluent county just north of the Golden Gate Bridge; Marin City and Mill Valley even make an appearance in the novel as “Mill City.” Intrepid travelers can also head southeast to the peninsula city of Palo Alto, home to Stanford University and a thriving culinary scene. Or, a short cruise southwest offers stunning views of the Pacific coast on the way to Half Moon Bay. Whichever way you choose, the cities around San Francisco offer myriad activities and lend themselves to the serenity that comes from a day’s drive. As Kerouac noted in his novel, “Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road.”

 

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Muir Woods National Monument

 

Northern Exploration
Where: Marin County
Distance: Approximately 20  miles
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes, plus side trips
Directions: Drive U.S. Route 101 north to San Rafael, stopping in communities just off the highway along the way.
Alternate Route: Take a ferry into Marin and enjoy views from the water; they depart for Larkspur from the Embarcadero behind the famous Ferry Building several times a day.

Spending a day in Marin County—encompassing the cities of Mill Valley, San Rafael, Larkspur, Sausalito and more—gives visitors the perfect excuse to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge. An icon of San Francisco, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it was completed in 1937. Today, it is continuously painted to protect from corrosion and, contrary to popular belief, receives coats of a signature International Orange color, not red. It’s just the first of many historic sights to behold on a day trip through the northern county.

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Marin Civic Center farmers market (Courtesy of Agricultural Institute of Marin)

“Sandwiched in between San Francisco and the Napa Valley, Marin makes this tourist destination a trifecta,” says Brigitte Moran, CEO of the Agricultural Institute of Marin. “Our rolling hills, our farmers, our food, our beaches, our bay and the people are what make Marin special.”

Start your tour with the gentle giants of Muir Woods National Monument, a coastal redwood forest off state Route 1, accessed from U.S. Route 101. (Parking fills up quickly; a shuttle is available near the Muir Woods entrance on weekends, and on summer weekdays.) Thanks to then-U.S. Rep. William Kent of California, who bought the land before donating it to the federal government in 1908, visitors can amble through the park looking for their favorite specimens, which can grow hundreds of feet tall and live for thousands of years.

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Bar Bocce

Of course, all that hiking is sure to work up an appetite: For upscale versions of American classics, stop by Buckeye Roadhouse or Bungalow 44 in Mill Valley. You can also head north to Larkspur, where Marin Brewing Company serves up award-winning microbrews including raspberry and blueberry ales, and Pizzeria Picco specializes in seasonal ingredients. Nearby, the Marin County Civic Center in San Rafael offers guided tours of its buildings, which were the final commission of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and also hosts one of the largest farmers markets in California year-round on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

On the way home, consider a side trip to the still active Point Bonita Lighthouse, a hidden gem of the Bay Area. Built in 1855 to help guide ships through the perilous Golden Gate straits, the site offers sweeping views of the iconic bridge. The lighthouse is in Golden Gate National Recreation Area; nearby Sausalito offers several dining options to try before heading back to the city. Bar Bocce is a local favorite for pizza and bocce ball against stunning shoreline vistas—be aware that in-demand tables are first-come, first-served. A block away, Sushi Ran has some of the best sushi in the region, and down the road, Le Garage Bistro—opened by two Frenchmen who met while working at the now shuttered Chez Papa Bistrot in San Francisco—offers French classics in a waterfront setting.

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“The Three Shades” by Auguste Rodin at Cantor Arts Center (Jim Gasperini)

 

Luxe Locale
Where: Palo Alto
Distance: Approximately 33 miles
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Directions: Instead of taking U.S. Route 101, cruise south down Interstate 280, nicknamed the “World’s Most Beautiful Freeway” with views of Montara Mountain and the Crystal Springs Reservoir. Take exit 24 and continue on Sand Hill Road to arrive downtown.
Alternate Route: Palo Alto is also easily accessible by Caltrain, which departs from the San Francisco station several times a day and makes stops at both University and California avenues.

One of the most affluent cities in America, Palo Alto is located in the heart of Silicon Valley and has served as headquarters for some of the biggest names in technology, including Facebook, Hewlett-Packard and Tesla. But don’t be fooled by the impressive resume: With plenty of shopping, fine dining and wine bars, it’s also where geek meets chic.

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Stanford University

Start your tour in downtown Palo Alto, where San Francisco restaurant owners have found new homes on and around University Avenue in recent years and given visitors the chance to enjoy the same big-city flavors in a decidedly more relaxed setting. San Francisco staples like Tacolicious and Pizzeria Delfina have locations downtown, and even the sweets are moving south—Chantal Guillon, owner of the eponymous specialty macaron shop in Hayes Valley, opened her second shop on University Avenue three years ago and has remarked that Palo Alto reminds her of the south of France. If you’re still in the area around dinner, head to popular Lure & Till for handmade pasta and a house-made aged vermouth cocktail, or cozy up after dinner in The Wine Room, which offers dozens of sips by the glass.

Continue up University Avenue, and you’ll find yourself on the sprawling campus of Stanford University. Though the grounds are technically within their own adjacent city located in Stanford, Calif., they flow seamlessly into Palo Alto. Shoppers will be happy to discover the Stanford Shopping Center, a dog-friendly, open-air mall that features plenty of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and Kate Spade New York. More valuable, however, is the assemblage at the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University, which includes one of the largest collections of bronze sculptures by French artist Auguste Rodin outside of Paris. There are also two outdoor sculpture gardens open 24 hours a day—one features 20 bronzes by Rodin and the other contains 40 wood and stone carvings created by 10 artists from the inland Sepik River area in Papua New Guinea.

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Lure + Till

Because Palo Alto annexed the city of Mayfield in 1925, a second downtown exists and is worth visiting. Located along California Avenue and its surrounding streets, it hosts a year-round farmers market on Sunday mornings and is home to several boutiques as well as Michelin-starred French restaurant Baumé, which features tasting menus for lunch and dinner.

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Point Montara Lighthouse

 

Coastal Appeal
Where: Half Moon Bay
Distance: Approximately 30 miles
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Directions: While U.S. Route 101 is more direct, the scenic drive south along state Route 1 follows the coast overlooking the Pacific; turn left on Kelly Avenue to reach the destination.
Alternate Route: If you decide to take U.S. Route 101, follow your GPS. There are a few freeway transitions and turns required to reach the city.

Half Moon Bay and its surrounding areas offer visitors the ultimate in quiet, beach town charm. Expect stunning views and a reprieve from city life—all within an hour’s drive from San Francisco.

“There is a constant pressure in the city that does not exist in Half Moon Bay,” explains Francesco D’Agostino, co-owner of the city’s award-winning restaurant Via Uno Cucina Italiana & Bar. “It feels peaceful and relaxing, with a small-town vibe and friendly people, like you are back in time when the pace of life was slower. I love it here, it reminds me of my small, seaside town in Italy.”

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Cetrella Dessert (Eric Wolfinger)

On the scenic drive down state Route 1, keep an eye out for whales as you pass Gray Whale Cove State Beach and consider stopping at the lookout near the Point Montara Lighthouse along the way. You could also schedule a visit to the Friends of Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach, just north of Half Moon Bay. At low tide, visitors can explore 3 miles of bluff and tide pools, and see species of fish, crab, octopus and more.

Arrive downtown at the epicenter of the city, and discover an array of art galleries and boutiques. Head down Main Street and you’ll find Light & Art, a shop filled with glass sculptures and jewelry, as well as the Colors of the Coast Gallery, where artist Ellen Joseph produces dozens of paintings of the surrounding landscapes. If you stay until dinnertime, make a reservation at Cetrella for upscale, Mediterranean-inspired fare and live jazz on the weekends.

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The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay (Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay)

Farther south, more dining options abound with stunning views, such as Via Uno, which specializes in authentic southern Italian cuisine. For a more formal atmosphere, try Navio inside The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay: Offering American fare in an upscale setting overlooking the ocean, the restaurant is complemented by neighboring Eno Wine Bar—boasting international wines in addition to cheese and chocolate—as well as two championship golf courses on the property. C

All About Andersonville

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Bespoke Concierge Magazine
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Andersonville Sign Photo Credit Starbelly Studios
(Starbelly Studios)

By Belinda Lichty Clarke

Just north of the soaring skyscrapers that define downtown Chicago sits the quaint neighborhood of Andersonville—a picturesque oasis where a fascinating history seamlessly melds with a passion for personal relationships and community. Brick adorned buildings line the streets and house local businesses that have stood the test of time, avoiding takeover by chain restaurants and retailers thanks to their eclectic products, delectable menus and committed patrons.

“A huge part of Andersonville’s charm is that nearly all of the businesses are locally owned,” says Ellen Shepard, executive director of the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce and Andersonville Development Corporation. “It has long been part of the neighborhood’s strategy to support the ‘ma and pops.’ The result is that Andersonville has its own unique culture, with stores and restaurants that you won’t find anywhere else, and a small-town friendliness in the middle of the big city.”

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Andersonville supports “ma and pop” businesses (Courtesy of Greensky)

 

Located north of Foster Avenue and east of North Ravenswood Avenue, Andersonville developed out of necessity and remains relatively devoted to its Swedish heritage. The unique transformation of a small, cherry tree-dappled farming community in the 1850s into the bustling Swedish enclave called Andersonville can be attributed to one of Chicago’s most historic and cataclysmic events—the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Afterward the city banned the construction of wooden houses within the city limits, compelling Swedish immigrants—who could not afford to build homes of brick and stone in the city—to move outside of the city’s northern limits into the neighborhood now known as Andersonville. While the Swedish population has waned, the influence of Swedish culture remains; it’s particularly evident in the thriving Swedish History Museum, which helps give the neighborhood a special, historic flair.

 

Activities for All Ages

Never short on community-building events, Andersonville offers a plethora of activities to keep visitors engaged while enjoying the neighborhood. The Swedish American Museum might be described as the heart and soul of Andersonville. It began as a small storefront log cabin in which family histories were collected, and found a permanent home in Andersonville in 1976 with a goal of bringing together the Midwestern Scandinavian community. Today, still located in one of the most concentrated areas of Swedish culture in the United States, the 24,000-square-foot facility houses a gallery with special art exhibits, a permanent exhibit “The Dream of America – Immigration to Chicago,” the Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration, a library, genealogy center and a museum store. “Andersonville is a wonderful neighborhood and the Swedish American Museum is proud to be part of the community and to share our Swedish heritage,” says Karin Moen Abercrombie, the museum’s executive director.

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Swedish American Museum (Courtesy of the Swedish American Museum )

The museum serves as more than just a center of learning—it’s also a gathering place for gourmands and shoppers in the market for fresh, mouthwatering fare. On Wednesdays, May 18 through Oct. 19, the Andersonville Farmers Market—named by Chicago Magazine as one of the top five farmers markets in Chicago in 2013—is sought out for its great collection of cut flowers, heirloom produce, specialty baked goods, and more. For more foodie-friendly activities, The Wooden Spoon cooking school is family owned and operated and incorporates ingredients from the rooftop garden into the various recipes and lessons.

Beyond the museum, visitors are sure to find amusing activities that will offer original experiences day or night. Those looking for exercise can find it a short walk to the lake at Andersonville’s local shore, Kathy Osterman Beach, where the Chicago Paddle Co. has a location for both paddleboard rentals and lessons for beginners. From the water, paddlers are treated to an incredible skyline view in a serene setting. Theater buffs have no shortage of entertainment in Andersonville as the neighborhood is home to seven local theaters and workshops, including The Neo-Futurists theater ensemble—one of the most respected experimental theater companies in America. The troupe launched “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind” in 1988 and holds the title for the longest-running show in Chicago—an impressive feat in a theater town.

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Midsommarfest (Starbelly Studios)

The culmination of all things Andersonville commences the weekend of June 10 when the streets are crowded with people attending Midsommarfest, the neighborhood’s summer street fair. A $10 donation buys attendees access to a day of food and fun and helps to keep the neighborhood’s dynamic programs running throughout the year. Nearly 50,000 diverse members of the community attend this weekend festival of music, food, Swedish heritage, crafts and performances.

 

Tantalizing Tastes

Tradition meets epicurean haven in the restaurants that dot Andersonville’s North Clark Street. For a taste of authentic Nordic edibles, the landmark Swedish Bakery, opened in the 1920s, is a page out of time and is the neighborhood’s unrivaled sweets spot. Be sure to order the Andersonville Coffeecake: cardamom dough with cinnamon sugar and almond filling, says Eliza Williamson, general manager. While traditional Swedish products are the focus, the bakery also offers a variety of other European and old-fashioned American items.

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M. Henry focuses on organic ingredients. (Courtesy of M. Henry)

For a heartier breakfast, brunch or lunch, The Bongo Room gets raves for its signature cocktails along with decadent variations on the traditional benedict—think BLT, ground sirloin and deconstructed lobster roll.

Several local eateries follow Andersonville’s environmentally conscious ethos by using local, seasonal, organic and sustainable ingredients: M. Henry, an American bistro open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, focuses on healthy, organically sourced ingredients; Big Jones, the creation of chef and cookbook author Paul Fehribach, offers sophisticated heirloom southern cooking while supporting local farms year-round. Regularly featured in regional and national press, Big Jones’ menu items such as the Chatham Artillery Punch, chicken and dumplings, shrimp and grits and crispy catfish offer an infusion of Southern warmth any time of the year.

 

Bars, Brews and Beans

While glogg, a mulled wine of European origin, may be the most prominent alcoholic drink in Andersonville, innovation abounds in the form of mixed libations. Elixir Lounge Andersonville not only handcrafts each cocktail, but celebrates the art of the perfect drink. Signature specials include the Pretty in Pink with BroVo Pretty, BroVo Pink, Aperol, prosecco, soda and orange, or the Swedish Dream with North Shore Aquavit, lingonberry syrup, soda, lemon and a crispbread cracker. The Brixton also features specialty cocktails, along with American cuisine and a great summer weather patio with tables and umbrellas. For whiskey lovers, neighborhood hot spot Little Bad Wolf features its take on favorites like the Old Fashioned and mint julep. Or try one of the signature drinks, specifically the often-reviewed El Chupacabra with Don Amado Rustico Mezcal, Cana Brava Rum, velvet falernum, LBW Pineapple Shrub, firewater bitters and black pepper.

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Little Bad Wolf offers new takes on whiskey classics. (Courtesy of Little Bad Wolf)

For a nonalcoholic beverage, visitors tend to linger at the The Coffee Studio, named in 2009 as one of the Bon Appétit top 10 boutique coffee shops in America. Try the Dolce Latte, which co-owner Lee Corrina Cano describes as “a very gently sweetened version of our signature latte and a popular introductory choice for people who want to discover the flavors of really great espresso but prefer a touch more rounded sweetness than the steamed milk alone provides.”

 

Unique Boutiques

Eclectic antiques, chic interior design and stylish fashions intermingle along the streets of Andersonville, creating a landscape of retailers with new and old must-haves. The long history that permeates the neighborhood is easily evident at Brownstone Antiques, a shop that requires a little work to fully appreciate—be prepared to sift through piles of forgotten goods to find those unforgettable treasures. Just down the road, Scout is a home-decor heaven—refurbished vintage furniture is expertly curated in this centerpiece of neighborhood shopping. For stellar clothing finds, Turley Road features a wide variety of distinctive designers, while Milk Handmade offers handcrafted, limited-run finds for gifting and coveting, with items ranging from dresses to soft T-shirts to exclusive jewelry.

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City Olive’s oils, vinegars and more are curated from around the world. (Courtesy of City Olive)

For unique food finds, City Olive offers a menagerie of oils, vinegars, pastas, mustards, olives, tapenades and other curated gourmet items from around the world. Finally, the Andersonville Galleria is like an upscale permanent indoor street fair, with more than 90 artisan merchants to choose from for that perfect gift. With handmade jewelry, accessories, kids’ clothes, paintings, crafts and even natural cosmetics and skin care, a visitor could spend hours perusing this uncommon urban collection.

While the Andersonville neighborhood has certainly evolved, the small-town feel remains. Bolstered by groups of passionate citizens and merchants who are committed to retaining its history and sense of community, Andersonville will continue to be, for the foreseeable future, a one-of-a-kind hamlet just a bit south (4,200 miles) of Stockholm.

Girls Weekend in Waikiki

By
Dorie Leo
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Hawaii hula

As our flight taxied in on the runway at Honolulu International Airport, I felt the same sense of excitement.  No matter how many times I have made this flight, first as a high school graduate, then as a flight attendant working this desirable route, later as the wife of my then-husband, a roadie with various rock and roll groups that performed at the Waikiki Shell, and now with my BFF, who owns a timeshare at the Imperial Hawaii Resort ….it always thrills me.

Hawaii rainbow waikiki

Hawaii is known as a very romantic place for couples.  In fact, on practically any given day, one can see just-marrieds being photographed in their hotel lobby, on the beach, or along Kalakaua Avenue, the bride in a gorgeous, long, white wedding dress, usually escorted by someone holding up the train of her gown to make it easier for her to navigate.

Yes, Hawaii is a definitely a place for lovers; however, I want to go on the record to say that Honolulu, and especially the Waikiki area, can also be an outstanding travel destination for two good friends, with no romance at all involved.

We always start our vacation with brunch at the Outrigger Reef’s Shorebird Restaurant.  Situated on the beach with a view of Diamond Head, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a comprehensive buffet breakfast for $15.95, plus tip & tax. (And, if you go online to the Shorebird’s website and show that page to the cashier as you enter, you’ll only pay half price for the second person’s buffet.) This generous spread includes freshly-sliced ham and turkey, scrambled eggs, French toast, fish, sausages, yogurt, a variety of fresh fruit and pastries, coffee, hot cocoa, tea, and various juices, including the always popular POG (a combination of passion fruit, orange and guava).  Begin your day here, and you can be set for most of the day meal-wise.

Dining out in Waikiki in general is amazing because there are so many choices of cuisine in a variety of price ranges. Some recommendations of our favorites include:

IMG_0018-077Hula Grill in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, overlooking the beach with a view of Diamond Head. For breakfast, we tend to share either the banana/macadamia nut or the tropical pancakes and an acai bowl (a fruit smoothie served in a bowl with fresh fruit and granola on top).

Tilia Aloha Café at Kuhio and Kaiolu with its delicious waffles made of taro. Be adventurous and try these great-tasting waffles served with fresh fruit and mascarpone.  Tilia also dishes up an excellent acai bowl.

Roy’s Waikiki for dinner, international cuisine with a Hawaiian influence, a bit pricey, but worth it.  Do ask for the complimentary dinner rolls, which are baked right at the time you order them; otherwise, they may not be offered. We enjoy dining on the lanai and watching the world go by.

IMG_0003-159Ruth’s Chris Steak House for dinner or for happy hour.  Their steaks are outstanding, but if you are a vegetarian, there are still plenty of options. Do try the amazing sweet potato casserole and one of their salads, and, if you are still hungry, they have delicious desserts.

Last, but not least, the best “hole in the wall” ever is the Seaside Bar & Grill on Seaside and Kuhio where you may want to request Cisco as your waiter.  This diner has been around for quite some time and not much has changed.  Murals of Hawaiian hotels and of Diamond Head grace the walls, and it offers one of the cheapest breakfasts in town.  Their breakfast special brings you scrambled eggs, bacon, and two pancakes for just $4.95.  There is also a coupon for two glasses of orange juice for the price of one. Visit soon, though, because rumor has it that due to increasing rents, this restaurant may not be here forever.

After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to hit the beach, relax at your pool, or perhaps to start shopping.  For the basics, the ABC Stores are everywhere. In fact, sometimes there are two on one block.  There you will find gift items, Aloha clothing, food to go, toiletries, soaps, lotions and, of course, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts.  If you keep your receipts and spend a total of $100, you will receive a gift, which is typically a coffee mug.  We laugh at the effort we have put into spending $100 just to get a free mug that sells for $3.00 at the store.

The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center has an extensive list of free classes.  I tried the hula one and thought I looked pretty good by the end of the hour lesson.  You can learn to weave a mat or make a lei and watch hula shows, and there is a list posted for the week to let you know all the activities that are happening.

Hawaii portraitWe actually enjoyed taking classes at the Apple store on Kalakaua, There are two other locations including the one at the Ala Moana Shopping Center.  If you are into shopping malls, you can combine a computer class with a shopping expedition.  You should sign up for the classes online and book in advance, although people do just show up, and if there is space, they will let you join the class. We enjoyed the iphone photography class and also learning more about our laptop computers.

A stay in Honolulu would not be complete without listening to beautiful Hawaiian music and watching graceful hula dancers.  We have many recommendations, but at the top of the list of “must not miss” is the renowned group Olomana with Jerry Santos, Ryan Tang, and Ku’uipo Kumukahi playing at the Tapa Bar in the Hilton Hawaiian Village on Friday and Saturday evenings starting at 8:00 p.m. Jerry is a gifted story teller who shares with his audience Hawaiian legends and also his personal insights into life in Hawaii.  On any given night, Rae Tang and other well-known hula dancers may be there to further entertain. There is no cover or minimum and as you sit outside in a lovely tropical setting, you can enjoy typical drinks, smoothies, and pizza.

You may also want to check out the fireworks before the show starts on Friday  at 7:45 p.m. on the beach of the Hilton Hawaiian Village.   And if you want to make this a very complete evening, make a reservation at Benihana’s before the show starts and allow about 1.5 hours for dinner.  They really don’t serve food at the Tapa Bar, just a pizza that gets delivered from a nearby pizza restaurant.

Other great places to enjoy music include any of the groups that play at Dukes, which is situated at the Outrigger Waikiki, or at the restaurant as you walk into The Reef.  The Blue Note which is a jazz club, originally started in New York, now has a location in the Outrigger Waikiki.  They have a Sunday gospel brunch and an evening show.  Lee Rittenour just performed there and Chaka Khan performed in May. In the evening, you have a choice of having a cocktail with a minimum charge or dinner.  I would say that most of the seats are good, so no need to purchase the dinner in order to get priority seating

There are some interesting shows such as Rock a Hula Legends in Concert. We saw a tribute show featuring a tribute to Elvis Presley, Michael  Jackson and Celine Dion, intertwined with hula, Tahitian and fire dances.  I wouldn’t say it was the greatest show in town, but surely a fun evening.  Again, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend having the dinner before when just an entry ticket will suffice.  We ate at The Cheesecake Factory in the same area.   Do prepare for a wait since it is one of the busiest restaurants in town.

And yes, there is always the beach.  Do check online for the jellyfish schedules since you don’t want to be there when they are active.  You can rent surfboards and get private lessons if that interests you.

For one of the best hotels in town, stay at the Waikiki Sheraton.  Their infinity pool overlooking the ocean will cause you to want to spend the entire day there. That and the fact that they came around with frozen grapes and wet cloths.  Of course, if you do that, how will you get around to these other places…….

Aloha and have fun!

Millbrook Vineyards & Winery

By
Bespoke Concierge Magazine
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Millbrook Vineyards & Winery

Millbrook Vineyards & Winery

Called “the Hudson Valley’s flagship winery” by The New York Times, Millbrook Winery is located in the magnificent Dutchess County just 90 minutes north of New York City – 5 minutes from the village of Millbrook. Considered one of the top wineries in not only the Hudson River Valley but all of New York State, our 130-acre estate is planted with 30 acres of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. The Winery is open daily throughout the year for guided tours and wine tastings.

The hours are 12:00-5:00 PM with extended closing hours from June through October. 

845.677.8383
www.millbrookwine.com

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