Jason Gao 9/13/22 Jason Gao 9/13/22

The Fresh Kids of Bel-Air at Le Poisson Rouge

The Fresh Kids of Bel-Air performing on Friday nights at Le Poisson Rouge (LPR) is a can't-miss dance party down memory lane!

The Fresh Kids of Bel-Air performing on Friday nights at Le Poisson Rouge (LPR) is a can't-miss dance party down memory lane!

The epic cover band, consisting of five local NYC musicians on vocals, electric guitar, and drums, takes the stage weekly to entertain a packed audience with hits from chart-topping artists of the 1990s and 2000s every Friday at 11:55 PM (and doors open at 11pm). The genre-bending musical event is the brainchild of Fun Music Presents and includes a sing-a-long filled with hit singles from stars like Jay-Z, Lizzo, Katy Perry, Fall Out Boy, Eminem, Rhianna, Blink-182.

Party-goers are also invited to an opening DJ set full of throwbacks and mind-blowing mash-ups. And expect the unexpected with special performances from surprise talent from the dance floor or elevated VIP booths, drinking their fave cocktails and belting out tunes into the AM!

This past Friday brought out Rock of Ages star Constantine Maroulis and Mims, who popped in to perform hits with The Fresh Kids.

To purchase tickets or reserve VIP tables and bottle packages visit, https://www.funmusicpresents.com

All photo credit : Toni-Ann Langella

Jason Gao 9/13/22 Jason Gao 9/13/22

Josh McBride annual birthday celebration at Somewhere Nowhere

TV personality Josh McBride hosted his annual birthday celebration at NYC hotspot Somewhere Nowhere on Friday, September 9th during NYFW. The black and white themed party was the talk of the town, drawing in over 200 of his closest friends and family.

Mya, Nina Sky and Tiffany Pollard celebrating TV Personality Josh McBride’s birthday, sponsored by Cupcake Vineyards, at Somewhere Nowhere in NYC

The night, sponsored by Cupcake Vineyards, was full of surprises. Grammy Award winning singer Mya had the crowd going wild when she took the stage to perform some of her biggest hits and the “Move Your Body” Musical duo Nina Sky put on an epic show. The fun didn’t stop there! Que from MTV’s Making the Band “Day 26” gave an impromptu performance that had everyone singing along.

Notables who were spotted wishing Josh McBride a Happy Birthday included Grammy Award winning singer Mya, Nina Sky, Tiffany Pollard, Sharelle Rosado (Netflix's new Selling Tampa), Riley Burruss (Real Housewives of ATL/Kandi Burruss Daughter), Que (MTV’s Making the Band “Day 26”), OneFunnyLisaMarie (Comedian/Social Media Sensation), Brittney Akins (WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop), Sameer Quereshi (owners of Somewhere Nowhere) and many more.

(Photo Credit: Tylik Hill | Vocab Entertainment)

Jason Gao 9/13/22 Jason Gao 9/13/22

Machine Dazzle Exhibition at MAD Opens During NYFW

Last night the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) welcomed more than 700 friends to celebrate the opening of Queer Maximalism x Machine Dazzle, the first solo exhibition dedicated to the genre-defying artist Matthew Flower, better known as Machine Dazzle. Sequins, glitter, feathers, rhinestones, and ribbons filled the Museum, as the self-taught designer shared his repertoire of stagecraft, design, performance, and music, showcasing queer maximalism’s aesthetic language of gay liberation.

“Since its founding, the Museum of Arts and Design has been a home for artists who have reimagined and radically subverted traditional craft techniques in search of more authentic self-expression,” said exhibition curator Elissa Auther, Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs and William and Mildred Lasdon Chief Curator at MAD. “Machine Dazzle demonstrates how costumes have world-making capacity, why unorthodox materials have become the preferred way for those outside of majority culture to describe themselves, and the ways in which excess can both transform and transfigure the queer body.”

Warmth, joy, and connection, exuded from the Museum, highlighting the importance of this exhibition to the LGBTQ+ community. “The higher the heels, the closer to the goddess,” said Machine Dazzle to a packed room as the Dazzle Dancers reunited to perform a colorful dance with a provocative finale of no clothing–just glitter! As founding Dazzle Dancer Mike Albo wrote in his essay contribution to the exhibition catalogue, “having fun is a political act,” and only fun was had last night.

Guests included Penny Arcade, Noella Bella, Mx. Justin Vivian Bond, Haleigh Ciel, MAD Chair Michele Cohen with Marty Cohen, Amy Fine Collins, Duke Dang, Darlinda, John "Lypsinka" Epperson, Taylor Mac, Andrew Martin-Weber, Dirty Martini, Marsy Mittlemann, MAD’s Nanette L. Laitman Director Tim Rodgers, Ben Rodriguez-Cubeñas, Dan Romer, Jean Shafiroff, Christopher Tanner, Davóne Tines, and MAD Chair Emeritus Barbara Tober.

On view until February 19, 2023, the exhibition brings together nearly 100 of the artist’s creations for stage, spectacles, and street theater, alongside a variety of environments, ephemera, material samples, photography, and video. Together, they chronicle the metamorphosis of Flower, a closeted suburban kid from Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, into “Machine Dazzle,” the queer experimental theater genius.

Displayed are Machine Dazzle’s famous collaborations with drag and performance luminaries such as the Dazzle Dancers, Mx Justin Vivian Bond, and Taylor Mac, among others, as well as the artist’s recent emergence from behind the scenes to center stage of their own artistic life.

Queer Maximalism x Machine Dazzle is accompanied by a 160-page catalog published by Rizzoli, as well as a series of films curated by Machine Dazzle, that helped shape the artist’s aesthetic sensibility. Starting October, the series includes screenings of the Faye Dunaway classic The Eyes of Laura Mars (1978) for Halloween and Xanadu (1980) starring Olivia Newton- John to mark the artist’s birthday. Attendees of the film screenings can expect costume contests, giveaways, photo shoots, and more! For more information, visit madmuseum.org.

Photos by PMC Getty photos

Stephanie Carino 9/7/22 Stephanie Carino 9/7/22

Festivál Cafe Celebrates 2nd Birthday in UES

Kicking off right before Labor Day Weekend, Festivál Cafe celebrated their 2nd birthday in their Upper East Side venue. Known previously from their Secret Summer events, the producers went on to open the only farm-to-table bar experience in NYC.

Much like Secret Summer, the birthday party featured spirits that were stars of the show. Dorothy Parker Rose Petal Gin was the main ingredient for the Dorothy’s Raspberry Rose cocktail served up in with a raspberry foam topper. Dorothy’s Birthday Melons featured a refreshing mix of Dorothy Parker Gin, yuzu lime, melon and green tea demerara. And Ragtime Rye was the main component of the Peach Ragtime Celebration cocktail with lemon, peach and thyme demerara and the Ragtime Rye Juleps, either the classic triple mint or elecampane variety.

Cocktails were not the only thing on the menu. In addition to a grand grazing table, Festivál served up mini lobster bites, tuna tostadas, and various flatbreads to keep palates satiated. For entertainment, Louis B. Middleton opened up the night playing covers of popular artists that encouraged attendee sing-a-longs, and a DJ Tony Starr closed out the night.

Didn’t make the event? You have plenty of opportunities to have a similar experience. The restaurant is open for coffee and pastries in the morning, afternoon menus and dinner service Monday-Saturday, with live music weekly on Thursdays. Should you want to host your own party, private parties are also available to host in their varied spaces. For more information, please visit https://www.festivalcafenyc.com/.

Stephanie Carino 9/6/22 Stephanie Carino 9/6/22

New Serafina Rooftop Perches Above Times Square

Serafina in the Sky, the newest location in the Pod Hotel, opened just before the end of summer, taking over the old Polynesian space.

Serafina in the Sky, the newest location in the Pod Hotel, opened just before the end of summer, taking over the old Polynesian space. Sitting nine stories above 42nd Street, the venue dons the iconic yellow accents along with the authentic Italian cuisine that Serafina is known for.

Highlights from the menu include the vegetable lasagna, cacio e pepe pasta and pizza margherita. Other dishes that are great to share for the table are the calamari, truffle fries and Serafina’s famous meatballs. While the cocktail menu is still being crafted, specialty drinks that are not to be missed while we still have warm weather are the rum punch, flavored margaritas and frose.

Whether it’s indoor or outdoor, pre-theater dining or happy hour, Serafina in the Sky is perfect for groups, corporate events, dining with family, friends, or with a date. For more information, please visit https://www.serafinarestaurant.com/serafina-in-the-sky-pod-hotel/.

Jason Gao 9/6/22 Jason Gao 9/6/22

Southampton Arts Center SummerFest

Southampton Arts Center [SAC – southamptonartscenter.org] hosted their largest benefit and culinary arts festival, SummerFest, on September 1st! Honorees Helena and Rob Vahradian accepted the 2022 Champion of the Arts Award for their commitment to the arts of Southampton. Broadway star Jessica Vosk (Elphaba in Wicked) performed a medley of songs entertaining over 370 guests, with dinner and dancing into the morning hours. SummerFest is SAC’s most critical fundraising initiative generating 1/3 of SAC’s annual contributed income – allowing the continuation of our year-round world class programming while serving as a critical economic driver of our beloved community. As a result of last night, today they proudly announce the event raised over $650,000! Committee members were dressed in Bulgari jewelry while guests perused Bulgari vitrines in their bespoke lounge and enjoyed sweet treats from their dessert cart. LaLique partnered with Oscar Mora to produce and design the floral decor for the tables and, additionally, their historic LaLique designed vases were centerpieces. As guests arrived for cocktails, they were greeted by the stunning LaLique floral cart for the perfect photo op. Guests strolled through the galleries experiencing SAC’s current exhibition, FIGURES TRANSFORMED, curated by Christina Mossaides Strassfield after enjoying signature dishes for an authentic taste of the Hamptons from its most celebrated East End restaurants! Serving as the backdrop for SummerFest, guests freely explored the historic grounds and galleries of 25 Jobs Lane, with artwork by Deborah Buck, Hal Buckner, and Strong-Cuevas.

“We've now completed our 9th season at The Southampton Arts Center. Next year that's double digits time!” shared founding co-chair, Simone Levinson in her opening speech. “SummerFest originated as a way to have a great party to represent who we are and what we do. It is an opportunity to come together to celebrate our mission of building community through the arts. Each year, we've grown exponentially, and tonight we're hosting 370 people here for dinner.” she stated, proudly. “We have an after dark party where we're going to have over 200 young patrons spearheaded by Andrew Warren and his host committee.”

Following SummerFest was SAC’s first annual SummerFest After Dark party. Hosted by Alexander Hankin, Danielle Naftali, Makenzie Moon Phelan, and Andrew Warren, with event co-chairs Emira D’Spain, Julia Moshy, Noor Pahlavi, Julian Polak, Ryan Thomas Roth, and Harrison Vail. Whipshots’ played a pivotal role as it hyped up the party with signature milkshakes passed just in time for Grammy Nominated singer Kelis’ performance of her iconic hit Milshake. The boozy, alcohol infused whipped cream topped the milkshakes, instantly taking everything to the next level. Guests enjoyed their bottomless drinks, bites, and danced past 2 am to music by DJ’s Zeke Thomas and Timo Weiland.

Honorees Helena and Rob Vahradian were joined by event chairs Sylvia Hemingway, Simone and David Levinson, Nicole and Allen Salmasi, and Aline and Tom Shapiro, as well as distinguished supporters, including Stacey Bronfman, Henry Buhl, Candace Bushnell, Lisa Dennison, Jamee and Peter Gregory, Dorothy Lichtenstein, Margie Loeb, Daniel Nir, Susan Rockefeller, The Honorable Wilbur and Hilary Ross, Kara Ross, Chuck Scarborough, Jean and Martin Shafiroff, Sarah and Andrew Wetenhall, and more. And, After Dark guests included Mercedes de Guardiola, Gabi Demartino, Noriella (Nora Gjieli), Morgan Halberg, Logan Horne, Natalie Jackson, Brooke Korine, Brooks Marks, Micah McLaurin, Brooks Nader, Stephanie Nass, Preston NicholasJeff O’Donnell, Newman Parker, Erica Pelosini, Taylor Phillips, Giancarlo Purch, Kameron Ramirez, Melany Rodriguez, Nathan Romano, Sydney Sadick, Rosa Sanchez, Ally Shapiro, Duckie Thot, Blake and Elliot Tomaeno, and Michaela V.

A very special thanks to SummerFest sponsors 21 Seeds Tequila, Baked by Melissa, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Bulgari, D&G Gelato, Geo Events, GTIS Partners, ICHIBan Japanese Catering, KPMG, LaLique, New York Lounge Decor, Pearl Street Caviar, Peter Thomas Roth, PS Balloons, Puff Delights, Shearman & Sterling, Sundae Donuts, Tickets 2 Events, WhipShots, and Whispering Angel. Additional thanks to Fiduciary Trust International, and Purist. Dinner was served by Acquolina.

Select Southampton Arts Center programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature. FIGURES TRANSFORMED is presented by Sylvia Hemingway and Lana Jokel, with media partners Purist and WLIW-FM. FILM @ SAC is sponsored by Brown Harris Stevens. Wellness @ SAC media partner is The Purist. ECO Programs at SAC are made possible by Dorothy & Michael Reilly. Financial Literacy Partner: J.P. Morgan Private Bank. General operating support is provided by Bank of America. The SAC Summer Stage 2022 is sponsored by Primary Care and Reproductive Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian.

ABOUT SOUTHAMPTON ARTS CENTER

Southampton Arts Center is committed to community building through the arts. We present and produce inspiring, inclusive, socially and regionally relevant programs across all disciplines – welcoming, connecting, and collaborating with the diverse members of New York’s East End community and beyond. SAC is a not for profit 501(c)(3) organization.

For more information about Southampton Arts Center, located at 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton, New York 11968, visit southamptonartscenter.org or call 631.283.0967. Follow SAC on Facebook and Instagram @southamptonartscenter. For press inquiries, contact Rachel Bosworth via email at rachel@rachelbosworth.com or by phone at 631.220.1220.

Photos Credits: PMC / Getty by Sean Zanni, PMC / Getty by Patrick McMullan, BFA by Madison Voelkel

Jason Gao 9/1/22 Jason Gao 9/1/22

Lang Lang Hamptons Party

Christopher Burch opened his new Watermill residence for a Young Scholars Concert by the Lang Lang International Music Foundation on Saturday, August 27th. A longtime board member, Buch will soon again become the foundation’s chairman.

The two Young Scholars, Eden Chen and Maxim Lando, performed at sundown solos and four in hand reeditions of a varied program including Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux from The Nutcracker and Led Zeppelin's Stairway to Heaven, Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue, Sousa’s The Stars and Stripes Forever.

Lukas Barwinski-Brown, CEO of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, thanked Chris and spoke movingly of their work together, and how no child should be denied a musical education. Lang Lang’s Foundation now works on three continents, both partnering with schools in low income districts as well as mentoring for the most talented musicians. He also announced plans for the upcoming fundraiser, Lang Lang & Friends Gala Concert and Dinner, September 21 in New York City with performances by Lang Lang, his wife Gina Alice, Mauro Castillo (star of Disney’s Encanto), plus 20 of the Lang Lang Scholars.

Guests at the Burch residence included the Board Members David Hryck, and Kyle Wool, as well as Debbie Bancroft, Janna Bullock with her dog, Cricket and Richard Burns, Candace Bushnell, Lord William and Liliana Cavendish, Luane de Lesseps, Max Dolgicer, Patricia Duff, Lee Fryd, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Carole Guest, Andrea Karambelas, Ellie Manko, Liane Pei, Mary Snow, Sophia Tang, Peter Thomas Roth, and many more.

Jason Gao 8/16/22 Jason Gao 8/16/22

Farm to People

In the past, summer meant visiting the farmers' market and meandering among stalls brimming with colorful fruit, getting free samples, and talking to farmers who could explain exactly how they cultivated their food. Even though the pandemic has been abating, our purchasing patterns have been permanently altered because we now frequently order items online or over the phone in place of going to a physical store. There isn't anything that can replace the tradition of buying your own vegetables at the farmers' market, but there is a delivery service that comes very close.

Brooklyn-based Farm to People offers the greenmarket experience without you ever having to leave your apartment. Produce CSAs (community-supported agriculture) of all sizes are delivered by Farm to People to Manhattan, as well as select areas of Brooklyn and Queens. The boxes can include produce that is in season and organic, as well as protein and supplies. Produce, in particular, comes from farms that are free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), organic, and regenerative. One of the best things about Farm to People is that they pay their farmers $0.50 for every $1 sold on average (higher than the $0.13 per consumer $1 spent that farmers collect through traditional retail channels). You have the option of purchasing products à la carte or subscribing to a service, in which case you can remove items you aren't interested in and add others.

Michael Robinov, along with his father, David Robinov, and cofounder Anina von Haeften, established Farm to People in 2013. Michael Robinov was inspired to start the company after spending time working at the Union Square farmers’ market in New York City while he was a high school student. He was also influenced by his father, who was a pioneer in the natural food scene.

Farm to People has also launched Farm to People Kitchen & Bar, a restaurant serving the same premium, freshly chosen foods that consumers have come to love since its founding. A network of over 150 farms provides the ingredients for the cuisine at the restaurant. The space is the antithesis of the "dark store" movement and invites people to dine in, in an effort to further connect them with their food. Chef Matt's menu includes items like a Sumac Smash Burger, Yuzu Tarragon Potato Salad, Baby Gem Salad, lots of natural wines, and craft beers. “Food brings us all together,” said Michael Robnov, as he was giving a tour of the new space.

Farm to People Kitchen & Bar is located at 1100 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237 and open Friday 5 p.m.-12 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m.-12 a.m., and Sunday 2 p.m.-10 p.m.

Alexia Marza Doyle 8/14/22 Alexia Marza Doyle 8/14/22

Celebrating Drink Lightly Book Release with Lillet

Natasha David, a mixologist and author, hosted a party at the Showfields terrace to celebrate the publication of her book Drink Lightly.

Natasha David, a mixologist and author, hosted a party at the Showfields terrace to celebrate the publication of her book Drink Lightly. Guests enjoyed tasting light cocktails from the book, flower arrangements, delectable bites, and refreshing Lillet apéritifs.

Drink Lightly is a collection of low-alcohol aperitif style genre-pushing drinks that embrace a relaxed style of drinking while being based on the technical precision of craft-cocktails from award-winning bartender Natasha David’s expertise. Natasha also details in the book how her international upbringing, filled with food and music, and her journey in NYC brought her to where she is today. A collection of the book's recipes were available to try, like the “Endless Spring” with Lillet Rose, amaro, fresh lemon, and strawberry puree, or the non-alcoholic delight “Adult Supervision” with raspberry, verjus, and seltzer.

The “Giggle Fit” from Drink Lightly (*Lillet Rose, aquavit, fresh lemon, pomegranate, carrot eau de vie, and sparkling rose)*

Lillet celebrated their 150th anniversary with Natasha as their brand ambassador this year. The French aperitifs, perfect for light and bright summer cocktails, can be found in NYC retailers including Astor Wine and Spirits, Warehouse Wine & Spirits, Bowery and Vine Wine & Spirits, and East Village Wines.

Pick up your copy of Drink Lightly and a bottle of Lillet to start making some relaxing summer sunset cocktails!

Jason Gao 8/11/22 Jason Gao 8/11/22

Sapphire 39 with Haddaway, J Balvin

New York is titled to be “The City Where Dreams Come True” and Sapphire 39 is the place to make those dreams come true.

New York is titled to be “The City Where Dreams Come True” and Sapphire 39 is the place to make those dreams come true. The stunning adult entertainment venue, which has two additional locations in Times Square and on E. 60th Street, hosts some of the most uniquely over-the-top fun-filled nights out in NYC. On Monday, August 8th Sapphire 39 hosted “A Night at the Roxbury” themed Legends Only party hosted by former SNL star and Celebrity Big Brother alum Chris Kattan. The special night featured a headlining performance from Haddaway, who sang his hit "What is Love” alongside singer Dinah Nah. Sapphire's Michael Wright and Richie Romero welcomed guests including J Balvin and Bobby Shmurda to the party that DJ Marty Play provided the live soundtrack to.

Sapphire New York is famous for a reason. The club offers world-class adult entertainment to New York City with the same elegance and sophistication as its sister club in Las Vegas. Sapphire New York, the only gentleman's club located in Midtown, provides luxurious amenities like designer rooms with private butlers, concierge services, and rotating themes to fulfill every need.

If you’re lucky, you just might catch a glimpse of your favorite A-listers, Celebs, Athletes, DJ's, Musicians and Rap Stars partying right here with you. And the clubs play host to star-studded parties every week. Coming up next, Sapphire 60 will welcome Dennis Rodman to the club on August 21st. For more information, visit www.nysapphire.com.

All photos by @shareifz

Jason Gao 8/11/22 Jason Gao 8/11/22

Seltzerland NYC 2022

At the weekend's VIP and General Admission sessions, guests sampled more than 100 different hard seltzers from household names both locally and nationally, including White Claw, Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer, Vizzy, Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, and Smirnoff Spiked Seltzer.

On August 6, Seltzerland, the first hard seltzer festival to tour the nation, arrived in New York City and drew thousands of enthusiasts to Pier 36. At the weekend's VIP and General Admission sessions, guests sampled more than 100 different hard seltzers from household names both locally and nationally, including White Claw, Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer, Vizzy, Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, and Smirnoff Spiked Seltzer. Cornhole, lemonade ladder golf, and seltzer pong were just a few of the entertaining activities that charismatic guests enjoyed. Guests also took advantage of the interactive photo opportunities, like the inflatable bubble-filled photo booth and the lifelike White Claw lifeguard station, to capture their memories.

Throughout the event, Zazzy’s Pizza and Meatoss served delicious food to the buzzed crowds when hunger struck. The VIP ticket, priced at $59, offers early event entry, a full can of hard seltzer, a speciality drink, and a souvenir sampling cup for serious hard seltzer aficionados thinking about the premium Seltzerland experience. Visit www.seltzerland.com to learn more about where Seltzerland will be next, including the Jersey Shore, Denver, and Minneapolis.

A part of the earnings from all Seltzerland events are donated to Forage Forward, a nationwide organization that supports local and national non-profit groups with a focus on social justice, food banks, food sustainability, and food education.

Anika Czander 8/8/22 Anika Czander 8/8/22

Feel the heat at Ruth Stage's Cat On A Hot Tin Roof

As we stretch into the dog days of a sweltering summer, there’s no better time to see the Ruth Stage Production’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.

As we stretch into the dog days of a sweltering summer, there’s no better time to see the Ruth Stage Production’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. The Ruth Stage production marries Tennessee Williams’ classic 1955 play with modern aesthetics as the set design featured sleek furniture and modern costuming. With the script unchanged from it’s original form, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof continued the featured motifs such as social morals, greed, superficiality, mendacity, decay, sexual desire & taboo, repression and death.

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof stars Ruth Stage co-founder Matt De Rogatis as the lead character Brick. De Rogatis’ layered and powerful performance brings a troubled depth to one of the show’s more taciturn characters, relying on subtle acting choices and expressions to evoke Brick’s emotional turmoil. His chemistry with on-stage wife Maggie, played by Sonoya Mizuno, brought a tense presence to the stage. A native Brit, Mizuno’s mastery of a gallant Southern accent is all the more impressive as she floats between impassioned monologues like a songbird. The two leads were flanked by a powerhouse cast of seasoned dramatic actors, including Tony veteran Alison Fraser, and crowd-adored Christian Jules Le Blanc of “The Young & Restless”.

Beneath the shouting, struggling, and shoving on stage the familial dynamic between the cast was clear on and off the stage. After having been delayed multiple times due to COVID-19, there is almost a sense of relief behind the palpable joy that is felt from the actors getting the chance to perform in front of a live audience again. This is made apparent through their utter commitment to their roles and scenes, including very real bruises on De Rogatis’ that were made visible as the actor took his bows, or Le Blanc’s impassioned toss and subsequent breaking of the crutches used by Brick.

The show’s only downfall is in its limited run, which goes between July 15th to August 14th. If you haven’t had the pleasure of viewing this spectacular production, make sure to make your way to the Theater at St Clemens as soon as you can: https://www.ruthstage.org/cat.html

The cast takes their bows to a standing ovation.

Jason Gao 8/5/22 Jason Gao 8/5/22

A Celebration of Tuscan Cuisine

The tasting event honored Chef Luongo's extensive heritage by serving iconic dishes such as focaccia robiola, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and an antipasto misto terra table

At his signature eatery, Morso, legendary chef Pino Luongo hosted “A Celebration of Tuscan Cuisine” last night. The event highlighted Chef Luongo's 40-year history and substantial contributions to the city's cuisine and restaurant sector, in addition to raising money for City Harvest and God's Love We Deliver. Many of the participating chefs, including Rocco DiSpirito, Margherita Aloi, Cesare Casella, Kevin Garcia, Patti Jackson, Maurizio Marfoglia, Soerke Peters, Gianni Scappin, Michael Schlow, Pat Trama, and Ciro Verde, have cooked with or been inspired by Luongo.

The tasting event honored Chef Luongo's extensive heritage by serving iconic dishes such as focaccia robiola, bistecca alla Fiorentina, and an antipasto misto terra table. Guests enjoyed a full bar with specialty Italian cocktails and wines, and danced to the music by renowned D.J. Dipp

In Florence, in his mother's kitchen, Pino Luongo first developed a passion for cooking. He began honing his culinary skills at the age of sixteen while spending the summers working at his uncle's restaurant in Porto Santo Stefano, Tuscany. When Luongo relocated from Florence to New York City in 1980, he pursued his genuine passion—becoming a chef and restaurateur.

Luongo has operated restaurants in New York City for more than 40 years. He opened several highly regarded restaurants since his arrival, including the East Village institution Il Cantinori, Coco Pazzo, Le Madri, Mad 61, and his most recent venture, Coco Shack. With every new restaurant he opened, up to a total of sixteen at one point, he brought a piece of his native Italy to the United States, bringing with him the cuisine, the scenery, the heritage, and the culture of Italy. A mentor and former boss to the late Anthony Bourdain, Luongo is the bestselling author of several books, including A Tuscan in the Kitchen, Fish Talking, and Dirty Dishes: A Story of Passion, Pain, and Pasta.

“Coming to the US from Italy in 1980, I imagined a very modern trattoria serving authentic Tuscan cuisine. I never dreamed I would achieve success and recognition in the business I love so much,” said Chef Pino Luongo. “Throughout the years, I was lucky enough to mentor some of the most talented chefs cooking Italian food today. It gives me tremendous joy to see how many have come together to celebrate my passion for Tuscan cuisine and belief in giving back to the community that has supported me. For me, food, especially Italian food, has always represented a certain love and nurturing that we try to demonstrate in all of my restaurants. By partnering with City Harvest and God’s Love We Deliver for this special evening, I recognize and celebrate the tremendous efforts, love, and nurturing that both have given to many New Yorkers in need. We are so proud to be a part of this milestone evening.”

Proceeds from the event benefited two amazing organizations: God’s Love We Deliver and City Harvest. City Harvest is New York City's largest food rescue organization, assisting in the feeding of millions of low-income New Yorkers. This year, they will rescue 75 million pounds of food and deliver it for free to hundreds of food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community partners throughout the five boroughs. By reducing hunger and malnutrition, God's Love We Deliver seeks to promote the health and wellbeing of men, women, and children who are afflicted with HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other major illnesses. They make and distribute wholesome meals for those who are unable to furnish or prepare meals for themselves due to illnesses. To learn more or donate, please visit cityharvest.org and glwd.org

Jason Gao 8/4/22 Jason Gao 8/4/22

Greenwich Polo Club Spectacular 2022 Season

The tournament saw four teams compete in the East Coast Gold Cup leading to its thrilling finale where Level Select CBD triumphed with a final score of 5-6.

The Greenwich Polo Club, one of the premier polo clubs in the world, hosted the East Coast Gold Cup Final 2022 between Teams La Fe (players: Louis Devaleix, Robbi Bibao, Agustin Palomeque and Lucas Diaz Alberdi) and Level Select CBD (Andrew Gundlachh, Enrique Zavaleta, Joaquin Panelo and Ezequiel Martinez Ferrario). The tournament saw four teams compete in the East Coast Gold Cup leading to its thrilling finale where Level Select CBD triumphed with a final score of 5-6.

Established in 1981, the Greenwich Polo club is considered as one of the top high-goal venues in the world. Greenwich Polo Club runs 10 matches almost every Sunday through September. Sunday High Goal Public Matches - Gates open at 1:00 pm, the match begins at 3:00 pm and ends around 5:00 pm.

Nestled in the beautiful backcountry of Connecticut, the Greenwich Polo Club has hosted many of the top tournaments in Polo, including the esteemed East Coast Open. It is also home to the acclaimed White Birch polo team, one of the most successful teams in history, having won the most high-goal polo tournaments of any team over the course of the past 25 years, including the US Open Polo Championship in 2005. Legendary teams and players including Mariano Aguerre, Facundo Pieres, Hilario Ulloa, Nacho Figueras and many others, converge on the club every year to compete for some of Polo’s most prestigious titles.

Each Sunday match is attended by thousands of spectators flocking from New York City, Fairfield and Westchester counties, to witness the highest caliber of polo while enjoying an afternoon with friends and family. Greenwich Polo Club has also hosted many dignitaries and celebrities and in 2013 Prince Harry chose Greenwich Polo Club to host the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup.

The Season has already had many memorable contests and moments and in the past month and many more are to come with upcoming contests including;

Sunday August 28th, 2022 – East Coast Open

Sunday September 4th, 2022 - East Coast Open

Sunday September 11th, 2022 - East Coast Open Final

Saturday, October 8th, 2022 – CS14*/2* Greenwich Show Jumping

For more information, schedule and tickets, visit: www.greenwichpoloclub.com

Jason Gao 7/29/22 Jason Gao 7/29/22

LongHouse Reserve 2022 Summer Benefit

The LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton, New York, held its annual Summer Benefit on July 23rd to honor its artists, past, present, and future.

The LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton, New York, held its annual Summer Benefit on July 23rd to honor its artists, past, present, and future. A favorite slogan of its creator, Jack Lenor Larsen, ONWARD is the name of the organization. In the end, the old-fashioned sit-down supper beneath the tent was wiped out. It was instead stretched out in the garden beneath the stars with sofas, canopied beds, carpets, and chairs, as well as five buffets that included everything from poké bowls to a raw bar. More than 300 revelers danced into the wee hours of the morning, many of them in caftans, thanks to the art auction and a variety of bands.

“Having so many of the talented makers of our new artworks with us is in keeping with LongHouse’s tradition of honoring makers” said executive director Carrie R. Barratt. “LongHouse is so fortunate to have such a wealth of talent and support in our community,” offered co-president Dianne Benson. “You could feel the love and support in the air” added co-president, Nina Gillman.

Among the artists attending were Cheng Tsung Feng, who traveled with his team from Taiwan, inviting guests to enter his bamboo pavilion, Fish Trap VI; Steven Ladd stood inside his piece (created with his brother William Ladd), Right Here, Right Now; Moko Fukuyama engaged us with her Hell Gate Keepers; and Fitzhugh Karol shared Friendship, his immense totems honoring the spirit of trees. Other work on the property for the first time included Bjorn Amelan's sumi ink paintings and Alexander Polzin's Parthenope alongside permanent installations by Yoko Ono, Buckminster Fuller, and Willem de Kooning.
Guests included Alice Aycock, Tony Bechara and Desiree Von la Valette, Halim Bulos, Stacy Engman, Edwina von Gal, Dakota Jackson and RoseLee Goldberg, Anna Kulinova, Nathan Lane and Delvin Elliott, Stewart Lane and Bonnie Comley, Laura Lobdell, Fern Mallis, Jean Shafiroff, Leann Pei, Harry Santa-Olalla, Lee Skolnick, Barbara Slifka, David White (Mr.StarCity), Robert Wilson, stylish sister duo Tanya and Temidra Willock, and Victoria Wyman, as well as LongHouse Reserve Board of Trustees, Sherri Donghia, Dr. Derick George, Ayse Kenmore, Mark and Elizabeth Levine, Deborah Nevins, Peter H. Olsen, Suzanne Slesin and Michael Steinberg, and James Zajac.

The Summer Benefit is LongHouse Reserve's largest event of the year, with all proceeds going towards their mission of teaching living with art in all its forms; this includes diverse educational outreach, community programming, and maintenance of the grounds to keep it open for all. Sponsors included Macari Vineyards, Springs Brewery, Baked by Melissa, Marders, Diversified Services Inc., Power Equipment, and Riverhead Building Supply. Music provided by The Cherry Bombs, Joy Jan Jones, Royal KhaoZ and Certain Moves, with choreography and movement from Hadam Sung.

Photography by Patrick McMullan and Richard Lewin

Jason Gao 7/28/22 Jason Gao 7/28/22

Best Places for Happy Hour NYC

As workers reluctantly return to their workplaces and inflation continues to drive up day-to-day living expenses for city dwellers, happy hours are making a comeback in New York City.

Having too many choices might be problematic. The pubs and restaurants in New York City are some of the greatest in the world, and practically all of them feature happy hour specials. So, how are you going to pick a place to go out for a drink after work?

Our list of the greatest happy hours in the city is here to help you find a new favorite way to occupy the time between work and dinnertime. There are a variety of ways to get drunk on a budget in New York City, from local dives to trendy cocktail lounges.

Haven Rooftop above The Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) in Midtown is the perfect happy hour escape. Haven offers $6 select beers, $9 glasses of wine and champagne, and $10 margaritas and Aperol Spritzes from 4:30pm - 5:30pm, Monday - Friday. For more information, visit http://www.havenrooftop.com/

Kumi (120 W 57th St) has a new Happy Hour offered at their stunning bar from Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm - 7pm. Guests can enjoy special half-off pricing on small plates like Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Shishito Peppers, Edamame and BBQ Bao Buns. Cool down with $5 draft beers and sip on select wines for $9. For more info visit, https://www.kumirestaurant.com.

Wonderland (20 W 20th St), the city's newest adult nightlife destination, has Happy Hour offered Monday through Thursday from 7pm - 9pm where guests can score half-priced drinks and bottles and no cover charge. Guests will also be treated to live entertainment and performances throughout the night! For more information visit, https://nycwonderland.com

Enjoy happy hour at every Clinton Hall! All locations offer $6 drafts, $8 well drinks, wine, and select cocktails as well as deals on bar snacks. Their flagship FiDi location (90 Washington St.) has an expansive indoor and outdoor seating area to enjoy happy hour from 3pm - 6pm, Monday - Friday along with their expansive W. 36th Street locale. Clinton Hall’s Williamsburg (247 Metropolitan Ave.) and E. 51st Street locations offer happy hour Monday - Friday from 3pm - 7pm and the Bronx (601 E. 189th St.) location offers happy hour from Monday - Friday from open, till 7pm. For more information, visit https://clintonhallny.com/

Slate (54 W. 21st St.) in the heart of Chelsea, opens at 4pm, Monday-Thursday and has a happy hour till 8pm with $5 Bud Light, $6 Well Drinks, $8 House Wine and $9 House Margaritas and House Martinis. Enjoy a drink while playing ping pong, pool, giant jenga or the world’s largest Pac Man. For more information, visit https://slate-ny.com/

Hidden Lane (129 E. 15th St.) has you covered if you're workin' 9am - 5pm, with a happy hour menu from 5pm - 8pm, Monday to Friday. Grab drinks with friends and coworkers with specially priced cocktails including $5 Bud Lights, Narragansetts and well shots, and $8 Margaritas, Spicy Margaritas as well as a Beer & Shot combo for $8. Guests can also enjoy $2 off all draft beers as well as $2 off mixed drinks and cocktails. More information can be found by visiting, http://www.hiddenlanebar.com

Bar Marseille (190 Beach 69th St) in the Rockaways includes $10 cocktails, $5 beers, and $8 house wines from 3pm to 7pm daily. Along with drinks, added can’t miss specials include $1 oysters all day. The seaside restaurant, which has airy indoor dining and a stunning outdoor patio and a rooftop bar, and pays tribute to Provençal cuisine paired with a robust wine and cocktail list. For more information, visit https://www.barmarseille.com

Bongos (85 Orchard Street) (right in the heart of Dimes Square) This trendy, noir-inspired bistro offers unexpected twists on classic cocktails (like a Chamomile Martini and a full menu of house-made negronis) alongside elevated bites like charbroiled oysters and crispy artichokes – perfect for kicking off the night. Be sure to come back once you’re done reveling for a nightcap (as dinner is served until late!). Bongos is all about creating a grown-up dinner party atmosphere, with rich conversation and memorable experiences. Their outdoor seating area is the perfect place to take in the whirlwind of happenings on Orchard Street while you snack and sip.

Canary Club (303 Broome Street) For a night of jazz, modern American bites, and elevated cocktails, stop in at Canary Club—the vibrant and chic music & supper club in the heart of the Lower East Side. Starting in August, Canary Club will be offering a list of 100 happy hour cocktails for $10 each (Monday-Friday, 5-7 pm). Additionally, on Thursdays from 5 pm-close, martinis are 2-for-1 all evening long! Enjoy New Orleans-inspired cocktails and sharable small plates in Canary Club’s stylish club lounge, dining room, or outdoor patio.

Grey Lady (77 Delancey Street) For those who are staying in the city but still craving a New England escape, look no further than Grey Lady, the unpretentious farm-to-table restaurant and late-night bar inspired by the casual beach towns of Nantucket. Stop in for happy hour (Sunday-Friday, 4-6 pm) and grab $1 fresh oysters and $10 Nantucket-inspired cocktails. Additionally, on Wednesday evenings (4 pm-close), enjoy half-off on bottles of wine, paired with sharable seafood plates like Fried Calamari or Crab & Artichoke Dip.

Sereneco (113 Franklin St) Sereneco has just expanded their happy hour to Tuesdays—Saturdays from 4:00–7:00pm. Take advantage of Summer Fridays and sip on $10 summery spritzes (more on those below), $10 select cocktails, $5 beer, $6 cider, and $10 glasses of red, white, rosé, and orange wines.

Aunt Bernie's Bar and Jardin (513 3rd Ave) Aunt Bernie’s offers $13 wine flights and many more options for people in the Murray Hill area.

Jason Gao 7/28/22 Jason Gao 7/28/22

Rosé Filled Summer Brunch at Amali

The Mediterranean diet, which places an emphasis on vegetables, olive oil, cheese, grains, and fish, served as the inspiration for Amali.

The Mediterranean diet, which places an emphasis on vegetables, olive oil, cheese, grains, and fish, served as the inspiration for Amali. Its name is taken from a Turkish phrase that refers to the similarity of the regions west of Istanbul. Amali's dedication to sustainability is exceptional for the Midtown East neighborhood in which it is located and has won praise from the Obama White House, Slow Food Society, New York Times, and James Beard House. Since 2011, Amali has led the way in introducing customers to Greek wine, female winemakers, and the biodynamic/organic/vin natural wine movement.

With a "New York City spin," the meal at Amali pays homage to the rich historical traditions that contemporary Greece, Italy, France, Israel, and Spain share. At Amali, the trip starts with mouthwatering sesame bread with whipped feta butter and continues with fresh pastas, a variety of seafood dishes, including tableside flambéed salt-baked market fish, quinoa-crusted duck, filet mignon, spice-grilled chicken, and more.

With the summer heating up, Amali is helping out with their Summer of Rosé promotion, where diners can purchase half-off bottles of Rosé during brunch now through Labor Day Weekend.

Capacity: Main dining and three private dining rooms offer seating for up to 135 guests.

Days & Hours of Operation:

Lunch is offered Monday - Friday 12pm - 3pm Brunch Saturday - Sunday 12pm - 5pm

Dinner is offered Sunday - Monday from 5pm - 9:15pm and Tuesday - Saturday, 5pm - 10:30pm

Instagram Handle: @amalinyc

Jason Gao 7/25/22 Jason Gao 7/25/22

Holiday House Hamptons

On Wednesday, July 20th, Holiday House Hamptons held their second annual summer "Coming Together" Tabletop event at Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton

On Wednesday, July 20th, Holiday House Hamptons held their second annual summer "Coming Together" Tabletop event at Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton to support the vital fundraising efforts of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) and the Ellen Hermanson Foundation.

Founder Iris Dankner was joined by co-chair designers Andrea Stark, Campion Platt and honorary chair Jean Shafiroff as well as Elisa DiStefano for the chic event. The showcase featured the talents of fifteen leading designers ABC Carpet & Home, Abundant Habitat, Amal Kapen Interiors, Ashley Stark Home, Elsa Soyars Interiors, Evan Mason Designs, Hidden Gem NY, Kathy Kuo Home, Katie White Interiors, Sage & Madison, Sarah Lederman Interiors, Sea Green Designs, The Lewis Design Group, The Rinfret Group, Unlimited Earth Care by Frederico Azevedo and Weston Table. Each presented unique and cutting-edge tabletop designs while guests indulged in hors d’oeuvres from Topping Rose House, cocktails by Tito’s Vodka, and wine by Whispering Angel.

Frederico Azevedo, Jean Shafiroff, Iris Dankner, Lynn Scotti, Debra Halpert

Sid Banon, Louise Banon, Shea O'Rourke, Suki LaBarre, Jennifer Chon, Erin Nicholson

Those in attendance included Sid and Louise Banon, The Paddle Diva, Gina Bradley, Helen Gifford, Kathy Kuo, Bill McCuddy and Felicia Persaud.

The host committee included Alison Stager, Allison Eden, Alyssa Kapito, Amy Hill, Beth Cogan, Claudette Greenstein, Darcy Miller, Elisa Distefano, Elissa Grayer, Evan Mason, Felicia Persaud, Gabriela Gargano, Gina Bradley, Joe Badilla, Joe Sarasky, Julie Alvarado, Julie Ratner, Kristen Farrell, Laurie Lederman, Lynn Blumenfeld, Lynn Scotti, Maryline Damour, Maureen McDermott, Melanie Roy, Melissa Cohn, Nancy Mizrahi, Patti Grabel, Phebe Wahl, Renee & Richard Steinberg, Sasha Bikoff, Steve Roeder, Thomas Davis and Timothy Davis.

Chloe Bradley, Nikki Butler, Samantha Donini, Kristen Farrell, Kate Farrell, Flora Veitch, Brigitte Branconnier

The event was sponsored by ABC Carpet & Home, Tim Davis (Corcoran), Kathy Kuo Home, Unlimited Earth Care by Frederico Azevedo, Adam Miller Group, Ashley Stark Home, CLEAN by Meurice, Dan’s Papers, FJ Hakimian, Hamptons Magazine, Hamptons Real Estate Showcase, Nash Stone Group, Palm Beach Design Masters, Stark Carpet, Tito’s Vodka, Whispering Angel, The Melissa Cohn Group (William Raveis) and Modwell.

Founded by interior designer and breast cancer survivor Iris Dankner in 2008, Holiday House is an interior design showhouse in which top interior designers and lifestyle brands can showcase their talent. All proceeds from Holiday House events benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. You can learn more about Holiday House by visiting their website at www.holidayhousehamptons.com.

Photos by Holiday House

Jason Gao 7/24/22 Jason Gao 7/24/22

“New York Made” Cocktail Menu at Greenpoint’s Sereneco

Sereneco is an upscale contemporary American restaurant with a focus on seasonal veggies. We recently went to this establishment in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Sereneco is an upscale contemporary American restaurant with a focus on seasonal veggies. We recently went to this establishment in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The decor was stunning, and the energy in the room was second to none. Everything we ate was prepared to perfection by the chef. Throughout the night, the service was fantastic and everything ran well, allowing us to enjoy our time together.

Sereneco has just expanded their happy hour to Tuesdays—Saturdays from 4:00–7:00pm. Take advantage of Summer Fridays and sip on $10 summery spritzes (more on those below), $10 select cocktails, $5 beer, $6 cider, and $10 glasses of red, white, rosé, and orange wines. Snack on Sereneco favorites like Whipped Ricotta with House-Made Focaccia (toasted pistachio, orange blossom water, honey) or try the new Raw Oysters (two types, spicy mignonette, cocktail sauce), Roasted Mushroom Crostini (Vermont goat cheese, vin cotto, thyme) or Caponata Crostini (roasted zucchini, eggplant, bell pepper, pinenuts).

Owner and Beverage Director Billy Van Dolsen is incorporating regional ingredients into Sereneco's cocktail menu as a complement to the restaurant's emphasis on seasonal, local foods. The result is a new “New York Made” section of the drinks menu, featuring three light spritzes and two botanically-inspired gin & tonics:

St. Agrestis Spritz (locally-made St. Agrestis Paradiso aperitif, prosecco, club soda & blood orange)
Forthave Spritz (Brooklyn-made Forthave red aperitif, prosecco, soda, & orange)
Le Moné Spritz (local Le Moné Meyer lemon aperitif, prosecco, soda, fresh lemon & thyme)
Dorothy Parker G&T (NYC-made Dorothy Parker gin, fever tree tonic, hibiscus flowers, & grapefruit)
Greenhook G&T (Brooklyn-made Greenhook Ginsmiths gin, fever tree tonic, lime, grapefruit, & pink peppercorns)