Grand Opening of BaBoo NYC

If you are looking for unique pieces to decorate your home, look no further than the new design destination, BaBoo.

BaBoo recently opened its first New York location right in the heart of Tribeca. BaBoo offers a wide variety of unique and ethically produced home décor items from talented artisans around the world.

Some of BaBoo’s artisans include Knots Studio, Gaga & Design, Neo, IOTA, Mater, and Rone’l Jordaan, among many others. Whether you’re in the market for a fun knot-like pillow, or a ceramic sculpture, Baboo has got you covered.

If you are looking for unique and stylish home décor, we recommend you to stop by BaBoo, which is located at 90 Franklin Street. You are sure to find something to add a touch of personality to your home.

Old Hollywood Halloween Soiree

Leesa Rowland, Larry Wohl (Photo credit: BFA / Sabrina Steck)

Actress, Philanthropist, and Author Leesa Rowland and Larry Wohl hosted "Old Hollywood Glamour - A Halloween Soiree" at The Venue in the Hard Rock Hotel Times Square New York, bringing out silver screen flair and good grace with a special tribute to the luminaries of the film. This lighthearted gathering harkened back to the days when movie studios produced the stars and actresses who dominated our lives. Guests dressed to impress on the classic red carpet while sipping cocktails and dancing to live music.

The reception was hosted at the Hard Rock Hotel Times Square New York's one-and-only The Venue. Hank Stampfl's Revel Rouge provided the event décor, cocktails, and supper, with numerous personal touches from Leesa Rowland. Leesa's costume was created by fashion designer Marc Bouwer.

Photo Credit: BFA / Sabrina Steck

Photo Credit: BFA / Sabrina Steck

Notable Attendees included: Leesa Rowland, Larry Wohl, Marc Bouwer, Pedro Oberto, Ramona Singer, Carmen D’Alessio, Tina Radziwill, Debbie Dickinson, Wendy and Bob Federman, Dottie Herman, Pamela Morgan, Stewart F Lane and Bonnie Comley, Liliana Cavendish, Paul Margolin, Sergio Zapata, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Cindy Guyer, Nicole Noonan and Steve Knobel, Sharon Bush, Hank Stampfl, Lady Betty Grafstein and Jose Castelo Branco, Bill Sclight and Cheri Kaufman.

Leesa’s new book, The Charisma Factor: Unlock the Secrets of Magnetic Charm and Personal Influence in Your Life, which is available in bookstores and online.

About Leesa Rowland:

The daughter of an artist and college professor, Leesa Rowland grew up in Austin, Texas where she studied broadcast journalism and later became a classically trained actress at the world-renowned Stella Adler Studio in Los Angeles. 

Beyond her extensive career and credits as a film and television actress, she is also well-known for her work as a philanthropist and animal rights activist. A vegan dedicated to healthy eating, she has been active with the national non-profit organization Last Chance for Animals since 1989 and is the president of the New York non-profit group Animal Ashram, which she founded in 2013.

As she continues to develop her work as a philanthropist and involvement with these and other charities while exploring new dramatic roles, Leesa recently began adding something else exciting to her sizzle reel: comedienne. A lifelong sitcom fan, she has been taking comedy classes with Richard Kline - the actor best known as Larry on the late-1970s classic Three’s Company - in Los Angeles. She has also been studying improv and sketch comedy in New York at the famed Upright Citizen’s Brigade whose alumni include Amy Poehler, Horatio Sands, Matt Besser, Matt Walsh and Ian McKay.

For more information, visit leesarowland.net.

About The Venue:

The Venue is a one-of-a-kind showstopping bi-level venue in Manhattan is designed to impress and inspire. At over 6,000 sq. ft. the space features capabilities for a stage, live performance, or DJ with state-of-the-art audio-visual components. The Venue has cabaret style seating with leather banquettes, solid wood cocktail tables, high top tables, and a built-in bar located on each level ensuring the constant flow of liquid libations. You can treat your guests like rock stars with a dedicated street-level entrance, pre-function space on both floors (ideal for step & repeats or red carpets), green room for talent, and a dedicated elevator bank with a private entrance. For more information please visit: https://bit.ly/498QGlg

STARTER X COOKIES : "ALL CITY PACK" LAUNCH EVENT

On the evening of October 26th, Starter x Cookies held their collaboration release event at New York’s recently opened House of Cannabis. The two iconic brands at the intersection of old school and current culture united to create a limited edition drop that had the city buzzing with excitement.

The unexpected collaboration between Starter and Cookies promises to be the season’s most coveted drop. The Starter x Cookies Capsule “ALL CITY” Collection pays homage to four flagship cities of Cookies store locations using the iconic early 90s Starter jacket pullover silhouette. This vibrant capsule blends nostalgia, sports, and street culture, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it.

The launch event featured DJ Scram Jones, a bar, and the opportunity to shop pieces from this newest collaboration. The collection is now exclusively available at Starter.com, Cookiessf.com, and in Cookies flagship stores starting from 10/27.

Cookies, the brainchild of rapper and millionaire entrepreneur Berner, has rapidly ascended into the cultural zeitgeist, becoming the world’s first billion-dollar brand in its category. Known for its street cred and highly sought-after products, Cookies has also taken the fashion world by storm with its coveted streetwear line that has permeated the global market.

Launched in 1971, the legendary brand Starter is no stranger to the world of sports apparel. Boasting licensing deals with every major American sports league and being used by more professional teams than any other brand, Starter has left an incredible mark on the industry. It achieved cultural icon status in the early 90s, embraced by a plethora of hip-hop artists and influential trendsetters, including the likes of LL Cool J, Will Smith, Jay-Z, and Nas, just to name a few.

The Starter x Cookies collaboration offers a unique experience for fashion enthusiasts and streetwear connoisseurs alike. So, don’t miss the opportunity to shop this exclusive drop. Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and prepare for a style revolution!

Broadway Stars Light Up the Opening of Empire Steak House in NYC

Photos Courtesy of Daniel Kwak

The glittering lights of Times Square shone even brighter on Wednesday, October 25th, as Empire Steak House unveiled its latest culinary masterpiece in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The Sinanaj brothers, Jeff, Russ, and Jack, welcomed a star-studded guest list of over 100 special attendees, including the Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, for the grand opening of their third Empire Steak House location, situated at The Pearl Hotel (233 W. 49th Street).

Photos Courtesy of Daniel Kwak

New York City Hospitality Alliance Executive Director Andrew Rigie, Broadway League President Charlotte St. Martin, Times Square Alliance President Tom Harris and Broadway Association Chair Cristyne Nicholas shared remarks on Broadway's impact on businesses like Empire Steak House and how this restaurant's opening symbolizes the resilience of New York City.  Broadway stars Melba Moore and Andre De Shields were also on hand for the celebratory evening, which included a ceremonial ribbon cutting with Mayor Eric Adams who mingled with guests and congratulated the Sinanaj brothers on being the embodiment of the American Dream. Tony award winning producer Irene Gandy, MJ star Elijah Johnson, Purlie Victorious cast members Heather Alicia Simms and Vanessa Bell Calloway, along with Phillip Boykin, Natasha Yvette Williams, Thayne Jasperson, Kara Young, Lisa Arrindell, Emma Snowdon Jones, George Wayne and Chazz Palminteri were among the notable names in attendance. 

Photos Courtesy of Daniel Kwak

Empire Steak House's foundation was forged in the Sinanaj brothers' nearly 40-year career journey. In the 1980s, Russ, Jack, and Jeff Sinanaj left their homeland in Montenegro and embarked on a life-changing adventure to New York City. They brought with them a tenacious work ethic, inspired by their father, which has been the cornerstone of their success. Their journey began with Peter Luger Steak House, where they honed their craft and developed an unwavering commitment to warm, welcoming hospitality. This commitment has been the guiding principle behind each of their restaurants. The Sinanaj brothers proudly own multiple Empire Steak House locations throughout New York City, including E. 50th Street, W. 54th Street, W. 49th Street, and Broadway. Their culinary excellence extends beyond the borders of the United States, with a location in Tokyo. In addition to Empire Steak House, the brothers have brought their dedication to hospitality to Chazz Palminteri Italian Restaurant, which can be enjoyed in both New York City and Westchester.

The menu offers an array of mouthwatering options, including perfectly grilled steaks, succulent seafood dishes, and an impressive selection of fine wines and beers. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a memorable dining experience, Empire Steak House guarantees an unforgettable journey for the senses, where classic elegance meets culinary excellence.

Empire Steak House NYC is more than just a restaurant; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of New York City and the dedication of the Sinanaj brothers to create an establishment that encapsulates the essence of this great city. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a memorable dining experience, Empire Steak House guarantees an unforgettable journey for the senses, where classic elegance meets culinary excellence. For more information, visit www.empiresteakhousenyc.com.

Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur Takes Over U.S. With 2nd Annual Espresso Martini Fest

From October 9th-15th, Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur hosted their 2nd Annual Espresso Martini Fest in 14 cities and 240 bars across the country. NYC was considered one of the hubs and had special events for espresso martini aficionados that enveloped the city in a caffeinated haze. One of which was an espresso martini masterclass hosted at mixology bar, Death & Co. The instructors for the course was cocktail royalty, Bea Bradsell, daughter of Espresso Martini creator, Dick Bradsell and Mr, Black US Brand Ambassador Stephen Kurpinsky.

Bradsell took the crowd through the origin of the espresso martini (a model asking for something to wake her up and a happy accident of coffee grinds and vodka), and the history of the London bar scene at that time. The original recipe is quite different from what we expect today. It was on ice, was comprised of vodka, sugar syrup, Kahlua and strong espresso that was strained into a rocks glass.

After the introduction, guests were then invited to learn how to make cocktails of their own and received recipe books to make the concoctions at home.

Later in the week, Mr. Black introduced the Mr. Black Espresso Martini House, a pop-up in the West Village that gave old school Mad Men vibes upon walking into the space. The event hosted 4 of Mr. Black’s favorite bars with their own spin on the espresso martini including The Sylvester from Miami, FL, True Laurel from San Francisco, CA, and NYC native bars Dante’s and Milady’s.

Much like earlier in the week, Kurpinsky hosted another espresso martini masterclass for fans of the brand. As an onsite activity, attendees could get personalized Mr Black merch with branded patches from Unemployed Denim or custom embroidery from Apparel NYC. And for the entertainment portion of the evening, NYC faves DJ Mick and High & Mighty Brass Band brought the music. Upstairs a speakeasy was decked out to be the personification of Mr. Black, complete with a terrace, for VIPs.

It was a great week of buzzy craft cocktails prepared by the experts, showing just why the espresso martini is the star of the show. For more information and to attend next year, please visit https://www.mrblack.co/us/espresso-martini-fest.

Photos courtesy of Angela Pham and Stephanie Carino

Serving Up Smiles 2023

Overlooking the waterfront setting at the stunning Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers, the enCourage Kids Foundation (EKF) presented its annual Serving Up Smiles, a premium taste experience. The evening featured exquisite food from top restaurants and chefs in the globe, a VIP lounge, premium wines and spirits, and amazing auction items.

"Jean Butler, President & CEO of enCourage Kids Foundation, said, 'It was amazing to celebrate the joy, hope, and healing enCourage Kids Foundation has offered to pediatric patients throughout the country at our culinary tasting event, Serving Up Smiles. "We are immensely appreciative of all of our sponsors, chefs, restaurants, and attendees who so kindly contributed and made it possible for us to increase our influence and assist even more sick kids."

Alongside Culinary Chair Chef Ralph Scamardella (Chef & Partner TAO Group Hospitality), ABC Sports Anchor Ryan Field hosted the event. As guests dined, toasted, and partied into the night, DJ CHEF spun the greatest songs.

Hunt & Fish Club, LAVO New York, Ocean Prime, Robert, Sfoglia, TAO Downtown, Bryant Park Grill, Dolce Bella, F. Ottomanelli By The Water, Beauty & Essex, and The Curry Blossom were among the participating eateries. Sponsors of beverages were JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and Landmark Vineyards, Dr. Perricone Hydrogen Water, Fever-Tree, FIJI Water, Gelston's Irish Whiskey, Jade Sparkling Wine, Newburgh Brewing Company, Owl's Brew, Whitley Neill Gin, and Zyr Vodka.

Gold Sponsors: Ark Restaurants Corp, Bryant Park Grill, Cougar Capital & The Donut Pub, Feil Family Foundation, Flagstar Bank, GFP Real Estate and Robert. Silver Sponsors: Lucy and David Ball and Segal Mc Cambridge. Photo Booth Sponsors: Emerson Entertainment and Goldberg Weprin, and Giveaway Item Sponsor: Buchbinder & Warren and Newmark.

13th Taste of Sunnyside 2023

For the 13th year, Taste of Sunnyside made a comeback on Sunday, October 15th. This year's event included over 50 neighborhood eateries and breweries, along with a block party with live music, a local artists' exhibition, kid-friendly activities, and more on 46th Street between Queens Boulevard and Greenpoint Avenue.

The event's producer, Dirk McCall de Palomá, Executive Director of Sunnyside Shines, said, "Ticket holders traveled between participating restaurants and bars and were treated to a wide variety of tastes of local signature dishes and beers." He went on, "It's fantastic for small business owners to build relationships with their neighbors directly because event attendees got to visit each participating restaurant."

The annual Sunnyside Shines Business Improvement District event encourages both locals and tourists to enjoy the neighborhood's unique culinary offerings. Adding to the weekend's activities that united families in support of the community was the presence of regional musicians, artists, and merchants.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE PARTCIPANTS: 

1. 43rd Bar & Grill (Home of the Atomic Wings)

2. Alewife Brewery

3. Arcobaleno Gelateria NYC (Italian)

4. Ariyoshi (Japanese)

5. Bajeko Sekuwa

6. BigAlice Brewing

7. BK Dim Sum (Chinese Fusion)

8. Blended Smoothies

9. Bliss 46 Bistro

10. Bolivian Llama Party (Bolivian)

11. Brookside Market

12. Cardamom Indian Cuisine (Indian)

13. Chakra Café (Turkish)

14. Chiddy’s Cheese

15. Chip City

16. City Tamale (Mexican)

17. Cool Beans (lattes, hotdogs, coffee, and more!)

18. Copper Kettle Bar & Restaurant

19. Courtyard Alehouse

20. Danubius (Romanian)

21. De Mole (Mexican)

22. Elio’s Ice Cream (Ice cream, donuts and more!)

23. Empire Shop (Sandwiches, acai bowls, and smoothies)

24. Fat Puppies (Doggie treats)

25. Kaprichos (Colombian)

26. Kasbah Café

27. La Adelita (Mexican)

28. La Pollera de Mario (Colombian)

29. La Vienesa Bakery (Colombian Bakery)

30. Limena Pisco Bar (Peruvian)

31. Mad For Chicken (Korean)

32. Maison De Gateaux (French)

33. Makina Café (Ethiopian)

34. McGuinness Saloon

35. Mistura Peruana #4

36. Moa Coffee (coffee, sweets, and more!)

37. Moge Tee

38. Buncha (bubble teas)

39. Oasis

40. Pete’s Grill

41. QNSY

42. Ricas Pupusas and Mas (El Salvadorian)

43. Riko Peruvian (Peruvian)

44. Rincon Melania

45. Sanger Hall (American)

46. Single Cut Brewery

47. SoleLuna (Italian)

48. Sotto le Stelle (Neapolitan Pizza)

49. Spicy Nepal (Nepalese)

50. Sweet Avenue (taproom devoted to local brews)

51. The Globe Tavern

52. Tito Rad’s (Filipino)

Wild Ivy

In Gramercy, Wild Ivy is a stylish new bar and restaurant that's ideal for a first date, happy hour with coworkers, dinner with friends, or a night out on the town by yourself. Mick O'Sullivan, proprietor of Bell Book & Candle in the West Village, and Peter O'Connell, owner of Molly's and Malones on Third Avenue, brought Wild Ivy to life.

Start with some Salt & Pepper Chicken Wings, Crispy Deviled Eggs, or Mini Meatballs with Chimichurri. The 16-oz grilled ribeye, the grilled cheese and truffle sandwich, and the chicken cordon bleu sandwich are among the larger dishes. Pizzas such as the Italian Flag, which has buffalo mozzarella, tomato, and basil, the Old Stand By, which has Ezzo pepperoni, and the tasty Spicy Meatball with Serrano chile are also available for guests to enjoy. Order a traditional Caesar, a stone fruit mixed green salad, or an heirloom tomato salad for a lighter choice. A comprehensive brunch menu will also be available at Wild Ivy starting at the end of October.

A cocktail menu that honors Wild Ivy's Gramercy location was created by bar director Kelly Jakobs. The color-changing Poison Ivy, which is made with Grey Goose, lemon, and lavender infused with butterfly peas, dill, gin, and ginger; Ruggle's Choice, which combines vodka, Kahlua, espresso, and pumpkin spice; Booth's Hooch, which combines gin, lime, ginger, and beet; and Irresistible Irving, which combines rum, lime, peach, cinnamon, and angostura. Weekly specials include $4 off specialty cocktails, $7 house wine, $6 beers, and $1.50 oysters during happy hour, which runs from 4 to 7 p.m.

All the walls at Wild Ivy are covered in the breathtaking Abstract Expressionist artwork of the late New York City artist Rick Librizzi, who resided at the Chelsea Hotel. Librizzi's art alluded to his contemporaneous relationships with Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The area has large booths, a stunning bar, and sultry low lighting. It has 74 indoor seating capacity.

The bar will be open from 4pm till late, 7 nights per week. Happy hour will be offered on weekdays from 4pm-7pm

The Best Ways to Celebrate Halloween in New York City

The leaves are changing, and temperatures are dropping, it’s officially Halloween season. Get in the spirit with New York City events that promise frights and thrills, humans and pups adorning costumes, and ghoulish theatrical extravaganzas.  

Dreams of Dracula:

New York is a city filled with world-class immersive theater. The newest is Dreams of Dracula: An Immersive Masquerade Experience which brings to life a Vampire Masquerade. Presented by Bucketlisters and Never More Immersive, step into the seductive tale of Dracula as you’ve never experienced before.

An immersive theatrical event, you’ll saunter through the darkness of Castle Dracula and enter a choose-your-own adventure journey that details Bram Stoker’s original classic vampire novel. You’ll find yourself mingling with Dark Romantics, Lord Byron, John William Polidori, and Mary Shelley as you all step into the dreamtime – the shadow world between sleep, nightmares, and ecstasy.

Join a secret society of the dark arts and explore a world beyond the borders of your conscious reality and knock around the limits of your hypnotic dreams. Rendezvous in the salon with the intoxicating Oscar Wilde or slip into the Alchemical Study of Sigmund Freud. Just be warned! Hypnosis, tarot readings, scary tales, darkness, flashing lights, thunder, and lightning will all be a part of this experience.

Written and directed by Jonathan Albert and Nicole Coady. Choreography by Arianne Meneses. Music composed by Dian Shuai. The experience takes place on two floors and within four rooms that spans 25,000 square feet.

Friday and Saturday evenings are for the most elegant guests with black-tie attire as a requirement for admittance. For all other immersions into this dreamscape, basic black will get you past the velvet ropes and you’ll be provided with masks. Be sure to come thirsty and indulge in specialty cocktails. *opening photo curtesy of Bucketlisters

Photo Curtesy of Bucketlisters & Nevermore

Bucketlisters presents Cityside Pumpkin Patch

Pretend you are Upstate in a field of pumpkins with the Cityside Pumpkin Patch. New York City's most expansive Halloween extravaganza has been created at The Summer Club rooftop with sweeping views of Manhattan. The rooftop has undergone a complete metamorphosis into a family-friendly, Halloween-themed experience, where the boundary between reality and Halloween magic dissolves

Grab your camera and feel the enchantment of this fully operational patch. All of the pumpkins on are up for grabs and included in most ticket packages or available for purchase.  Besides a bevy of pumpkins that come in all sizes, there is a frenzy of fall activities.

The Smash-o-Lantern Zone is space for releasing stress as you smash a pumpkin to smithereens. Test your aim at Scarecrow archery, see what your future holds with Tarot Reading and get your face painted. Fall photo opportunities are around every corner at the Midnight Mausoleum, the Sleepy Hollow Graveyard, Dexter’s Deadly Display, the Ringmaster’s Circus and a Pool of Pumpkins.

Special treats and potions are also available so come hungry. Nosh on Pumpkin seeds, Carmel Dipped Apples, NY Style Pretzel, Sweet Potato Pretzels, Thanksgiving Sandwich and more. Sips include beers from Sam Adams and specialty cocktails like Frankin-Rita, Gravedigger, Black Magic Mulled Wine and Triple Hot Chocolate. The Beer Fest, Fear Fest presented by Sam Adams challenges you to face your biggest fear - Cenosillicaphobia (the fear of having an empty glass when drinking.)

BloodManor Celebrating 20 Years of Terror

BloodManor is celebrating 20 years as New York City’s premier haunted attraction with three new themed rooms and all new costumes created by NYC's ultimate Halloween store, Abracadabra NYC. The last two decades BloodManor has been oozing spine-chilling scares and thrilling entertainment, becoming a staple in NYC for the Halloween season.

This years’ experience leaves visitors more afraid with elevated horrifying attractions, mind-bending theatrics, and bone-chilling surprises. BloodManor's most hair-raising attractions have returned – revamped and amplified to intensify the fear factor. Visitors confront their deepest fears through dark, sinister corridors filled with twisted characters causing jump worthy scares at every turn. Every moment is elevated thanks to state-of-the-art special effects, bringing realism to the haunting experience and blurring the lines between reality and fiction. From cursed mansions to abandoned asylums, each attraction within the “house” is based on carefully crafted, original storylines. Visit now through November 4 and with October the 13th falling on a Friday, BloodManor will be hosting a night of fright party.

Photo curtesy of Union Square Advertising 

More Spooky Fun:

Nightfall: Danse Macabre at Green-wood Cemetery | October 19 & 20

Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade| October 21

New York's Village Halloween Parade | Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 7 pm

Monster: A Halloween Party at The McKittrick Hotel | October 27, 28 and 31

Pumpkin Nights at Bronx Zoo | Through October 29

Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch | Through October 31

Immersive TerrorVision: Experience the Nightmare Live | Through November 5

Explore the HALLOWverse at INTERween |Through November 5

The Pumpkin Arch at Pier 17 |Through November 7

FALL-O-WEEN at New York Botanical Gardens | Through November 12

Catacombs by Candlelight at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral | Through end of 2023

Saw the Musical | Through January 1, 2024

Visit Sleepy Hollow in Upstate

Things to Do in October

1. Hole in the Wall and Isla & Co. will Celebrate International Coffee Day with a $2 Flat Whites on 10/1

Hole in the Wall in Murray Hill (445 E 35th St.) and Isla & Co. in Williamsburg (107 N. 12th St.) will celebrate International Coffee Day on Sunday, October 1st by serving up $2 Flat Whites featuring coffee from Hole in the Wall Coffee Co. during this global celebration of everyone's favorite bean.  The deal will be available from 11am to 1pm on Sunday, October 1st while supplies last.

2. Celebrate National Taco Day at Bar Bruno on 10/4 with a Trio of Tacos for $10.04

Head to Bar Bruno, which has locations in Greenpoint (560 Manhattan Avenue) and Carroll Gardens (520 Henry Street), on National Taco Day by indulging in a trio of delicious Carnitas, Fish or Veggie Tacos for $10.04 on 10/4.  The bar, which is also known for its wide variety of margaritas served in skull glasses, will also have Bacon, Egg & Churro Pancake Tacos on the menu for the special occasion in addition to dessert nachos and much, much more. 

3. Experience Trusted Mic at Somewhere Nowhere with The Rakiem Walker Project Band on 10/5

Trusted Mic, featuring live Hip-Hop music from The Rakiem Walker Project Band- the ultimate authentic sound from Harlem- is now in residence every Thursday at 6pm at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th Street). Rakiem Walker is an accomplished saxophonist and musical director born in Brooklyn and raised in Harlem and the Bronx. He has toured with Lisa Simone Kelly, and was the musical director of Red Rooster Harlem and Ginny’s Supper Club, owned by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson. Expect weekly surprise performances, great vibes, classic cocktails, dinner, and most importantly- dancing. More information can be found by visiting, https://somewherenowherenyc.com/. Reservations are encouraged and can be made via OpenTable.

4. Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch Hosts Hoppy Hallowine at Pollyn on 10/7

Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch will host Hoppy Hallowine at Pollyn (115 Broadway at the Corner of Bedford and Broadway) every Saturday through Halloween weekend with festivities for the whole family! Visit the patch for a day full of fun anytime between 2pm and  8pm, to enjoy activities like pumpkin carving and painting with all supplies included and clean up provided. Browse their exceptional collection of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, including fancy gourds and tons of Halloween decor. When night falls, the party begins with access to a bar menu featuring beer and wine, as well as music from a live guest DJ from 8 p.m and on. Find more information by visiting, https://gregstrees.com/

5. Sample hard cider and snacks at Food Karma’s annual CiderFeast event.

We will be kicking off Cider Week New York in style with tastings from twenty cidermakers based in New York and beyond. The all-inclusive event will also feature snacks like bread, cheese and apple pie plus amazing 24-month aged ham from Dakota Hams. VIP and General Admission  tickets are on sale now.:

VIP Session: ($75 + fee) includes early admission at 12:00 PM for an extra hour of tasting including rare New York state ciders, a guided aged country ham tasting with Pig Perfect author Peter Kaminsky, welcome drinks, select cheeses and first bites. Featuring a custom, 24-month aged, traditional country ham by Dakota Hams in Nancy, Kentucky sliced by Master Ham NYC plus an heirloom apple education from Original Sin.

General Admission: ($55 + fee) all-inclusive food and drink tasting tickets with 6:00 PM entry

LOCATION

Industry City Brooklyn. Courtyard 1/2, 11232

BUY TICKETS HERE

6. Experience EMRG Media’s 11th Annual Event Planner Expo and After Party at Nebula 10/10-10/12

The 11th Annual Event Planner Expo, presented by EMRG Media, is set to take place in NYC from October 10-12, 2023. This is the premier conference for the events and marketing industry with over 3,000 attendees expected including event producers, corporate decision makers, and industry professionals. Keynote speakers for this year's event include Gary Vaynerchuk, CEO of VaynerMedia and Marcy Blum, an Author and Wedding Planner. The Expo will showcase more than 150 top venues and event services at Metropolitan Pavilion, with two floors of exhibitors, VIP lounges, fireside chats, and a new Hospitality Lounge for networking. It provides opportunities to create strategic partnerships and foster business growth. The event begins with an opening party, followed by educational sessions and networking opportunities on subsequent days, culminating in an after-party at Nebula (135 W 41st St). To purchase tickets, starting at $70, visit https://www.theeventplannerexpo.com/ 

7. Gear up for an exhilarating Stein Holding Contest this weekend in celebration of Oktoberfest at Ainslie (199 Bowery)!

Starting on Friday, September 29th and Saturday, September 30th at 8pm, Ainslie will host a thrilling showdown where participants can test their strength and endurance by holding their Stein upright the longest. The festivities kick off with the ceremonial tapping of the Oktoberfest keg on Friday prior to the contest, marking the beginning of their exciting Italian Week. The contest will end after the following Friday, October 6th and Saturday, October 7th and winners will be rewarded with $250 in gift certificates. If beer is not your thing – sign up for Ainslie's Instagram selfie competition, encouraging patrons to capture their favorite spots in the restaurant and post their selfies. The picture with the highest number of likes will earn its creator a prize of $1,000 in gift certificates, while anyone amassing over 100 likes will receive $50 in gift certificates, making this Oktoberfest celebration an event not to be missed! Find more information by visiting, https://ainsliebowery.com/

8. Experience Taste of Sunnyside on 10/15 

The 2023 Taste of Sunnyside Restaurant Crawl on Sunday, October 15th will spotlight the diverse flavors and hidden gems of Sunnyside, Queens from 2pm-7pm. Taste of Sunnyside is back for its 13th year and better than ever as an open-air restaurant crawl celebrating the resilience of this unique neighborhood. With over 40 local restaurants and breweries in participation, and a block party on 46th Street (between Queens Boulevard and Greenpoint Avenue) with live music, a local artists exhibition, and family friendly activities, there is something for everyone at Taste of Sunnyside. This annual food crawl offers you a taste of Latin, Italian, French, Asian, Middle Eastern cuisines and more! Participating restaurants include Chakra Cafe, Danubius, De Mole, Sweet Avenue and Riko Peruvian. Each bar or restaurant you visit will have exclusive food and/or drink samples exclusively for ticket holders. In addition to October 15th’s festivities, all Taste of Sunnyside ticket holders will have access to the official kick-off party on Thursday, October 5th from 6pm-8pm at QBK Sports (41-20 39th Street). Tickets are $50 plus taxes and fees and can be purchased by visiting Taste of Sunnyside Tickets.

**Check in for the event will be at Lowery Plaza at 40th Street and Queens Boulevard and 46th Street and Queens Boulevard. Guests will be provided with recommended routes to experience each ‘taste’ on the crawl. Two trollies and an ADA compliant bus will be available for those who would like transportation along the event route.  

9. Slice Out Hunger Presents: Pizza on the Pier at Fornino on 10/15

Brooklyn favorite Fornino (Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park) is proud to partner with Slice out Hunger to host a pizza party of epic proportions on Sunday, October 15! This event features 30+ of NYC's top pizza makers baking off exclusive, specialty pizzas all day. The afternoon is split into three 90-minute sessions. Grab a ticket for 1, 2, or even all 3 sessions to max out your pizza experience! Attendees will have access to unlimited pizza, the chance to connect with NYC's top pizza makers, pizza making lessons, prizes, and more! Presale tickets are available now, and close on 10/14/23 at 11:45PM EST. A limited number of tickets will be available day-off. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: https://sliceouthunger.org/pizza-on-the-pier

10. Tastes of Brooklyn Presents: Tastes of Carroll Gardens 10/21

Tastes of Brooklyn invites you to create your own personal food and drink tour along the brownstone-lined streets of picturesque Carroll Gardens on Saturday, October 21. Each ticket allows you four tastes to choose from any of the array of participating establishments from their Taste Map. Participating venues include classic Carroll Gardens restaurants like Bar Bruno, Caputo's Fine Foods, Smith and Vine and more! See all participating venues on the Tastes of Carroll Gardens map HERE, and know that as you enjoy exceptional culinary talent in Brooklyn you are also supporting Seeds in the Middle, a foundation that aims to erase food desserts by building multiple farm stands in Brooklyn so everyone has equal access to fruits and vegetables. Tickets start at $43 and are available at http://tastesofbrooklyn.com/

11. Celebrate Rytoberfest, A Party for Ryans at Clinton Hall in Williamsburg on October 21st

Oktoberfest may be ending soon, but Rytoberfest has only just begun. All Ryans are invited to Clinton Hall in Williamsburg (247 Metropolitan Ave) on Saturday, October 21st beginning at 6pm to pay homage to the name and celebrate where the beers will be flowing and the Bryans won’t be going. The Ryan who travels farthest to attend will receive a coveted handshake trophy, which will be announced at 9pm. All ages are welcome to attend. They’ll have root beer available for the underage Ryans, who may be accompanied by a non-Ryan guardian throughout the event. There will also be 15% off stays at Pod Hotels Williamsburg, which is directly attached to Clinton Hall, using promo code RYTOBERFEST. 

More information can be found by visiting, https://www.meetup.com/ryanmeetup/events/296347747/

12. Experience Mel Debarge at Somewhere Nowhere on 10/26

Kick off Halloween Weekend on Thursday, October 26 at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St) with Mel Debarge, a New York City-based DJ and household fixture on the international fashion scene. Tickets start at $40.17 and are selling fast, so grab yours today at: https://www.halloweenweekend.com/. To purchase a VIP Table, please visit: Mel Debarge Tables. For further questions, please contact info@elgruposn.com. 

13. Attend The Villains' Ball ft. Brandi Cyrus x Nathan Leong at Somewhere Nowhere on 10/27

Embrace your inner evil at The Villains’ Ball on Friday, October 27 at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St). HalloweenWeekend.com is serving the most wicked party vibes with music by Brandi Cyrus x Nathan Leong, and opening DJ set by Mock. Villain-themed costumes are highly recommended. Darkness will reign starting at 10PM ’til late. Tickets start at $64.89 and are selling fast, so head to Dice to grab yours today at: https://www.halloweenweekend.com/. To purchase a VIP Table, please visit: www.sevenrooms.com/events/somewherenowhere. For further questions, please contact info@elgruposn.com. 

14. Experience The Halloween Sunset Party ft. DJ Pickle at Somewhere Nowhere on 10/28

Join us on Saturday, October 28th at Somewhere Nowhere NYC (112 W 25th St) for a Halloween Weekend Sunset Party from 4PM until 10PM, brought to you by HalloweenWeekend.com and Rose Gold. Harness the Halloween Energy as you dance to tracks from masked DJ Pickle while the full moon rises. Dress to impress- costumes are highly encouraged. This event is 21+ and tickets are recommended, grab yours today by visiting https://www.halloweenweekend.com/. For further questions, please contact info@elgruposn.com. 

15. Open The Book of the Forbidden ft. Rick Wonder x Firpo at Somewhere Nowhere on 10/28

On Saturday, October 28th, HalloweenWeekend.com and El Grupo SN will present The Book of the Forbidden, a Halloween themed party, at Somewhere Nowhere NYC with music by Rick Wonder and Firpo. The haunting begins at 10PM and goes ‘til late. Costumes are highly recommended. Tickets start at $64.89 and are selling fast, so grab yours today at: https://www.halloweenweekend.com/.To book a VIP Table, please visit: www.sevenrooms.com/events/somewherenowhere. For further questions, please contact info@elgruposn.com. 

16. Party at The Forbidden Palace at Slate on 10/28

This Halloween Weekend, uncover the secrets of the Forbidden Palace at Slate (54 W 21st St) on Saturday, October 28th, with live music! The haunting fun, presented by The Lure Group, begins at 8 p.m. and the celebration will run ‘til late with an open Vodka bar set from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Costumes are highly recommended. Early bird tickets start at $20 and are selling fast, so grab yours at: www.SlateTickets.com. 

17. Enter The Forbidden Garden at Somewhere Nowhere on 10/29

Join us for The Forbidden Garden- NYC’s hottest, darkest Halloween party at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St) on Sunday, October 29. Costumes are highly recommended. The garden gates open at 10PM, and all bar reservations must arrive before Midnight for guaranteed entrance. Tickets start at $40.17 and are available here: https://www.halloweenweekend.com/. To purchase a VIP Table, please visit www.sevenrooms.com/events/somewherenowhere. For further questions, please contact info@elgruposn.com.

18. Experience Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike’s Twilight Harbor at Brooklyn Navy Yard on 10/28

Grab your tickets to NYC's largest Halloween Party, Twilight Harbor, featuring the long-awaited U.S. return of Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike at Brooklyn Navy Yard on Saturday, October 28th. This special night is presented by Ignite Group and Nebula.  Brooklyn Navy Yard will be transformed into a visually-stunning 104,000 square foot playground that combines killer DJ sets, captivating lights and special effects to create the spookiest, immersive Halloween scene in NYC. Tickets are officially on sale and can be purchased exclusively from the ticketing platform http://get-in.com/en/ignitegroup.  VIP SkyDeck Experiences are also available in collaboration with Nebula Nightclub for those looking for an elevated night out. For VIP table inquiries, email: Skydeck@Nebulanewyork.com. Doors for this event open at 8:30pm, with the party going until 4am. For the latest information, or to purchase tickets, please visit https://get-in.com/en/

19. BloodManor NYC Celebrates 20 Years  of Terror, And This Year Promises Unprecedented Horror and Excitement!

BloodManor, New York City’s premier haunted attraction, is thrilled to announce its 20th year anniversary, marking two decades of spine-chilling scares and thrilling entertainment. As the pioneers of the haunted house experience, BloodManor has become a staple in NYC for the Halloween season, delighting and terrifying millions of visitors over the years. In honor of this momentous holiday season, BloodManor has prepared another year of unforgettable theatrical quality production, with three new rooms, all NEW costumes created by the designers of NYC’s ultimate Halloween store Abracadabra, trained actors, set designers, and make-up artists. This year’s experience will leave visitors more afraid and excited than ever! The 20th-anniversary season will showcase an array of horrifying attractions, mind-bending theatrics, and bone-chilling surprises, ensuring a night of terror unlike any other.

BloodManor's most infamous and hair-raising attractions will return, revamped, and amplified to intensify the fear factor. Visitors will confront their deepest fears as they journey through dark, sinister corridors filled with twisted characters and jump scares at every turn. As an industry leader, BloodManor incorporates state-of-the-art special effects, bringing unparalleled realism to the haunting experience. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a nightmare fueled by technology that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. Each attraction within the “house” will be based on carefully crafted, original storylines, transporting visitors into eerie and macabre worlds. From cursed mansions to abandoned asylums, every theme promises to invoke terror and adrenaline.Dates: BloodManor is open every weekend and some weekdays from Thursday, September 29th through Saturday, November 4th.

Tickets: Timed-entry tickets can be purchased online at BloodManor.com or at the door. You can also follow BloodManor’s Instagram for real-time information, images, videos, and real-life experiences

19. Get Spooky at Daintree’s Fright Night Halloween Party on 10/27

Experience thrills at Daintree during their Friday Night Halloween Party on Friday, October 27th atop of Hotel Hendricks (25 W. 38th Street) in Midtown Manhattan. Add a little sparkle and luxury to your spooky itinerary by reveling in Daintree’s one-of-a-kind view of NYC’s skyline, sipping carefully curated seasonal cocktails and jamming out to music from a Guest DJ throughout the evening. Between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m., guests can party while enjoying Aussie-Asian cuisine fusion like Chicken Salt and Seaweed Popcorn, Ahi Tuna Tartare, Kangaroo Skewers and tempting plates of Oysters and drink reimagined New York classics, or distinct Australian wines. Find more information and purchase tickets, starting at by visiting https://vibestub.com

20. Attend Daintree’s Tower of Terror Halloween Party on 10/28

Get spooked at Daintree during their Tower of Terror Halloween Party on Saturday, October 28th, atop of Hotel Hendricks (25 W. 38th Street) in Midtown Manhattan. Make your Halloween itinerary glamorous with Daintree’s one-of-a-kind view of NYC’s skyline, refreshing seasonal cocktails and music from a Guest DJ throughout the evening. The party begins at 10 p.m. and includes a special Aussie-Asian cuisine fusion menu with highlights like Chicken Salt and Seaweed Popcorn, Ahi Tuna Tartare, Kangaroo Skewers, tempting plates of Oysters and reimagined cocktail classics, or distinct Australian wines. Find more information and purchase tickets, starting at by visiting https://www.vibestub.com/e/daintree1028

BondSt Brings Trendy Dining Experience to Hudson Yards

BondSt in Hudson Yards just opened a week ago and the secret is out. From opening to our departure at 7pm, this place was packed with clientele from all walks of life. Corporate huddles, intimate dates, family gatherings and us in the corner booth in the middle of the restaurant, overlooking the Vessel during golden hour.

For those that were familiar with Hudson Yards food and beverage offering at its’ start, BondSt took over where Wild Ink left off, making the space their own and bringing their 25 years of expertise with them into the newly developed area. Known for contemporary interpretations of Japanese-inspired cuisine, the menu features something for everyone. Brett Singer, who has been with BondSt for over a decade, is taking the title of Opening Chef for the space, followed by Executive Sous Chef Daniel Su and Louis Smebi will be handling front of house operations

When you come to BondSt, drinks and sharing plates is the way to go. We opted to start with the Yamamomo Framboise and the Toasted Barley Old Fashioned. The first was recommended because it is on the sweeter side, centering around the Japanese Mountain Peach, with St. Germain, raspberry jam, fresh lemongrass and topped with Tattinger Champagne.. The latter was unique because of the Muchicha-infused Makers Mark and walnut bitters, that gave it a little bit of a spin.

For the food, we chose an item from 4 different categories. We began with the popular Big Eye Tuna tarts, which felt like mini pizzas. The white truffle oil definitely was prominent on the dish and the cream ponzu stood up to the tuna displayed on top. We then tried the Seared Salmon Belly, which was beautifully displayed and tasted just as good. We followed this up with the Tuna Crispy Rice, served with Korean Kochujang Sauce. The texture combination of tuna on top and chewy rice was tasty. The last savory item that we had was my favorite and that was the Short Rib Foie Gras Gyoza. A perfect dish for fall, the dumplings were hearty with a bit of texture outside from it being seared and the sour cherries in the plum wine sake sauce was a great compliment to the dish.

We ended on a sweet note with the Bread Pudding, complete with Yamazaki Whiskey Toffee Sauce. Also a recommendation from the expert staff, the dish melts in your mouth and we could not think of finishing our experience any other way.

The new space feature a main dining room,indoor/outdoor patio, 14 seat bar and 10 seat omakase bar, accommodating up to 225 guests at a time. The restaurant s is currently open for dinner service Monday through Saturday, with lunch offerings to follow. For more information or to make a much needed reservation given the traffic we saw on a Wednesday, please visit https://bondstrestaurant.com/reservations/,

-Photos courtesy of Anthony Tello

Interview: Fashion Designer Alexander King Chen

After years in Taiwan, where he’s dressed A-list celebrities, undertaken humanitarian endeavors, and made three fashion films, designer Alexander King Chen decided to retreat to New York to ask himself a simple question: Where am I?

Scroll down to hear about the designer’s journey of self-discovery, as well as his thoughts on everything from currents trends to eastern vs. western fashion. 

Photos by Asante Holder, @capturebyasante.

Why did you decide to go into fashion?

I want to say that I knew I wanted to be a fashion designer when I was a fetus—almost like I was born knowing that's what I was going to do, like it wasn’t even a decision. My mom loved art and fashion, and since I was really young we'd go shopping and do lots of artsy things, so with her influence I feel pretty much like it was meant to be from day one. 

How would you describe your work? 

Well for years I designed ready-to-wear, so my early work was really dictated by trends and what was selling. But then 5 years ago, I shifted directions and decided to make my work more story driven versus being driven by sales. Now it’s so much more theatrical, it’s dramatic—almost like a production compared to what I used to do. Much harder also, because it’s not designed with sales in mind. But this storytelling type of designing is much more true to who I am, and in combination with the short films I’ve done I feel that my work is much more impactful now for the audience as well. 

What would you say is the biggest difference between western and eastern fashion?

The east uses a LOT of color. We’re always embellishing, adding beading, adding drama. But in New York, for example, it’s very black and white, very neutral. You’d be surprised but it’s a whole different way of designing even when these basic tenets are different. 

Photos by Asante Holder, @capturebyasante.

Do you draw more inspiration from eastern or western fashion? 

Fashion in both cultures is amazing so it’s hard to say….I’d really say it’s an even mix between east and west as well as what I imagine the future of fashion in both those places to be. 

What city do you consider the most fashionable? 

Well every city definitely has its own unique fashion sense…this is really hard! Honestly, this doesn’t exist anymore, but Hong Kong in the 90’s was so interesting with the mix of British influence and Asian culture. People were pairing Chanel with H&M and Versace….I kind of really like that! Even still, when I go to weddings in Hong Kong…it’s like going to the Oscars, everyone is so decked out, like we’re in the 1920’s. 

What was your inspiration for your SS24 collection? 

I’ve been on a bunch of different journey’s the last few years…my mom passed away, I made films, I moved to a new city…so I decided to make every look in this collection representative of an important event in my life. One of the designs tells the story of my birth, another is a visual representation of my time in Taiwan…just keeping true to myself and how I perceived all these personal histories. 

What is the process of creating all these pieces like? 

This collection was SO hard to make—at one point my hands were bleeding because of how difficult some of the fabrics were to work with. It was just very tedious and meticulous because of the vision I had, I’d say even more so than previous collections because I was really trying to incorporate lots of different things from my life, which meant using a wider range of fabrics than usual. But you can’t say something represents your life and then just use one fabric! 

Photos by Asante Holder, @capturebyasante.

Will this collection be getting a film? 

Not yet :).  

What do you think of all the shows you’ve seen so far? Any trends you love? 

To be honest, I’m not in the scene as much in terms of trends these days—personally I’m just wearing the same thing every single day. Of course I’m scrolling, but personally I’m not putting that sort of effort into myself, just really focusing on my own designs. I love the focus on ethical materials recently though, the shift to pleather, for example, I think is really admirable. 

Lastly, any advice to up and coming designers?

Please have perseverance! You need a big heart because there might be a lot of people who will pull you down—even just by accident—but you need to not let it stop you from being kind to yourself and others. It’s a very ego-driven industry, but being kind will help you so much. And I’m not here to say that I’m the nicest person, but we’re all human beings, so it pays to be kind. 

Photos by Asante Holder, @capturebyasante.

Learn more about Alexander on his website: https://www.alexanderkingchen.com/, or follow his journey on his instagram, @alexanderkingchen.

Celebrate National Taco Day at Bar Bruno!

National Taco Day is just around the corner on October 4th, 2023! While there’s no shortage of delicious tacos in NYC, Bar Bruno is one of the standouts that we recommend this year. With locations in Carroll Gardens and Greenpoint, this hidden gem celebrates the art of taco making and more.

We started off with their signature margaritas and guacamole, which set the tone for a fun and delicious meal. The service was kind and lively and although we went on a Monday night, the vibes were friendly and upbeat. The cucumber margarita was especially delicious, a refreshing fiesta in a glass. It paired well with the bright flavors of the guacamole and crunch of the homemade tortilla chips. We added on some plantains for a sweet side, which were cooked to perfection. 

The tacos were authentic and delicious, offering the usual options of carnitas, chicken, veggies, fish, shrimp, and more, each flavor choice seasoned and balanced expertly. Though there were 3 filling tacos in each order, the taste left me craving more even after we had finished them.

Luckily there was more food on the way - we couldn't resist trying the birria pizza. This innovative entree featured layers of tender, flavorful birria meat over a crisp tortilla. Paired with the signature savory birria broth, this dish was nothing short of extraordinary.

Whether you’re stopping by to celebrate National Taco Day, or just heading over for a delicious meal, Bar Bruno goes above and beyond to bring tradition, innovation, and flavor to every bite.

Discover A Mesmerizing Late Night Extravaganza At Hypnotique

Hypnotique, the latest offering from The McKittrick Hotel, has burst onto the New York nightlife scene with an electric blend of sensuality and mystique. Taking place exclusively on Friday and Saturday evenings in The Club Car, Hypnotique promises an unforgettable late-night experience that immerses you in a world of spontaneous performances, mesmerizing dancers, and daring sonic soundscapes. After attending the opening night on September 15, 2023, it's clear that this captivating revue delivers on its promise.

Beginning at 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday nights, Hypnotique transforms the Mckittrick Hotel’s Club Car into a playground of enchantment. The performance unfolds with a highly-skilled ensemble cast, who weave a hypnotic narrative with elements from the worlds of burlesque, drag, cabaret, and ballroom into a dynamic and breathtaking live acts filled with tantalizing choreography and sultry music.This immersive approach allows spectators to feel an integral part of the show, drawing them into the deepest fantasies and desires explored on stage.

The McKittrick Hotel, known for its innovation in immersive theater with productions like Sleep No More, continues to push boundaries with Hypnotique. The club-like atmosphere is heightened by the availability of specialty cocktails, including the signature Hypnotonique, an electrifying punch that perfectly captures the show's spirit with cucumber-infused vodka, elderflower liqueur, and grapefruit juice. It was a delightful addition to an already captivating evening.

Hypnotique is a late-night spectacle that's as beguiling as it is alluring. It's a testament to The McKittrick Hotel's commitment to pushing the boundaries of immersive theater. If you're looking for an evening that will whisk you away into a world of mystery, desire, and artistic wonder, Hypnotique is an experience not to be missed. Prepare to be mesmerized and captivated by this enchanting journey.

Tickets available now to guests 21+ with valid photo ID.

General Admission tickets with standing room are priced from $65 per person, offering an up-close experience with the performers. Reserved seats are available for an additional fee: https://mckittrickhotel.com/events/hypnotique/

Interview: Fashion Designer Sahibzada Mayed

With multiple showings at NYFW, Sahibzada Mayed is making waves as the creator of Naranji, a modern yet culturally-rooted brand that seeks to disrupt the gender binary and transform how people view their identity. We caught up with the designer shortly after AsianNYFW to learn more about their vision and process.

Q: Why did you decide to go into fashion?

I kind of stumbled my way into it. What really sparked my interest was reflecting on how I grew up in a cultural environment that strived to assimilate to Whiteness. For a great part of my life, I felt bound in my own skin and wanted to be something I could never be. This harsh reality was a consequence of persistent cultural critique, representation in media, and normative beauty standards. I’ve always felt this gap between what’s considered fashionable and what cultural clothing is. I wanted to change that and reclaim my cultural diversity and heritage. Around the same time, I started to question the gendered conventions of clothing and why certain types of garments were restricted within rigid binaries. 

Q: How would you describe your work? 

Above everything else, I believe my work is a form of storytelling. I usually position fashion as a form of resistance to connect with our ancestral histories and reclaim the narratives that have been lost and forgotten. My work tends to be bold and visionary. The visual language is vibrant and colorful to capture the beauty and essence of South Asian culture. 

Q: What would you say is the biggest difference between western and eastern fashion?

This question is very close to my heart and it’s kinda unsettling to think about. There is definitely a power differential between western and eastern fashion, and what is prioritized more. Mainstream fashion fails to center the rich and diverse cultures that exist outside of Eurocentric norms and trends. Generally, what I’ve found is that cultural fashion tends to focus on storytelling and traditional craftsmanship. Sometimes, I find it hard to separate western fashion from the plethora of fast fashion brands that have commodified clothes for capital gains. Alongside it is important to parse through the colonial legacies that have defined what dominant western fashion is. 

Q: Do you think you draw more inspiration from eastern or western fashion? What are your favorite elements of each? 

My work focuses on decolonizing cultural fashion, drawing from my South Asian and Middle Eastern roots. What I appreciate most is the incredibly rich history and culture of garments that has been preserved through generations and evolved over time. I tend to draw my inspiration from that, focusing on cultural patterns, motifs, and visual representations. Lately, I have been stepping more into a fusion of cultures, which is a commentary on the diasporic experience that many immigrant communities live through. I am leaning more on the hyphenated identity of what it means to be South Asian and American, and exploring that through fashion. 

Q: What do you hope wearing Naranji can give to your consumers? 

Above everything else we want our consumers to feel empowered and be able to express themselves freely. I really think of fashion as a journey, brimming with possibility and growth, so we hope we can inspire others to leverage that as an outlet to explore who they are and who they want to be/come. Our clothes carry the weight of untold stories, narratives that have been forgotten, and ancestral histories that have been lost through colonial legacies. We invite people to reconfigure their relationships to clothes and what they wear as a way to reconnect with their pasts and forge pathways for liberated futures. Clothes are often seen as a commodity or object, but we encourage people to start noticing how they embody cultural significance and meaning.

Q: What was the inspiration for your SS/24 collection?

Our latest collection is titled: “Culture, Costume, and Non-Conformity.” What I’ve noticed is how people tend to separate cultural fashion from contemporary wear. This perspective tends to prioritize Eurocentric norms in the fashion industry. We wanted to challenge and disrupt that, and redefine how we can capture the essence of South Asian culture and tradition while crafting visions for the future of fashion. Featuring vibrant hues, intricate artisanry, and rich heritage, this collection transcends conventions and marks the intersection of fashion and culture as an ongoing journey of endless possibilities. Each garment tells a unique story of evolution and celebrates the idea of non-conformity. There are no assigned gender labels and rather we embrace the fluidity and expansiveness of gender by welcoming our community to explore who they are and who they could be.

Q: What was the process of creating all these pieces like?

I feel like I tend to be all over the place and that’s where the magic happens. There’s a lot of reflection and I just really try to stay curious. What matters the most to me is thinking about what I’m trying to represent and then crafting a story around that. I think what I really try to capture is being able to showcase culture in all of its richness and beauty. So for this collection, I really emphasized the choice of fabric and technique that was used whether that’s chikankari (a form of embroidery) or block-printing completed by hand. 

Q: I’m curious about the name “Naranji.” What does it mean, and why did you choose it?

The word Naranji translates to the color orange in Urdu and Farsi. I feel like I just felt really compelled and ended up going with it. Orange is my favorite color and when I think about it I feel a sense of warmth, joy, and rejuvenation. That to me captures the essence of our brand: being held and nurtured like a heartfelt embrace. The visual representation is also very inviting and welcoming which speaks to our values around cultivating a sense of community through our work.

Q: What do you think of all the shows you’ve seen so far? Any trends you’re noticing for the next year?

I’m definitely noticing a shift toward more ethical and sustainable fashion. I feel like a lot of activists in the space have been pushing for a divestment from animal products and moving toward slow, circular fashion. An example of that happened during Coach’s show this season at NYFW. Another thing I’m really sitting with after this season is the continued lack of age and body diversity among models that are selected to walk for these prestigious shows. This is definitely something I want to focus on next year and see what possibilities emerge. 

Q: Lastly, any advice to up and coming designers?

I feel like this is a very exciting yet overwhelming time to be in the fashion space. There’s a lot of movement and things are constantly in flux. While this can seem daunting, I have come to realize that it also is a rich breeding ground to harvest new ideas and forge alternative paths for the future of fashion. My advice is really to stay true to who you are and be very intentional about what you’re creating and who it is for. I’m hoping that the consumerist culture really catches on to a more mindful and responsible lifestyle, shifting toward brands that have a strong commitment to preserving culture and the environment.

For more information or to shop looks from Naranji, follow their instagram @hello.naranji or peruse their site: https://naranji.fashion.

Dîner en Blanc Takes Over Meatpacking District With 11th Annual Event

Photo Courtesy of Eric Vitale Photography

On a sunny day in September,  Diner en Blanc carried out their meticulously planned pop-up urban dinner party, complete with 4,000 guests, 250 volunteers and 23 meeting points that ultimately led to this year’s secret location, the Meatpacking District.

Guests carried everything they needed to execute the perfect dinner, from tables to tablecloths, dishes and glasses and immaculate menus and decorations. Pommery Champagne, this year’s bubbly sponsor, was on hand to add some sparkle to the night. 

This year was different though because it was the first time that DEB and the Meatpacking District Management Association and the Street Activity Permits Office joined forces to carry out this event. It was also the first time that the event took over multiple city blocks, where everywhere you looked was a sea of white.

The evening included entertainment from Broadway soloists Margot Siebert and Allison Blackwell, a quartet on stilts and a DJ. New York City’s Mayor Eric Adams even stopped by to show his support to an event that has meant so much to the community for over the past decade. The star of this show is always the fashion though and there was plenty of that!

For more information and to get on the waitlist for next year, please visit https://newyork.dinerenblanc.com/. 

Inside TV Host Josh McBride’s Birthday Extravaganza

Among the glitz and glam of high-end fashion shows and exclusive parties that comes with NYFW, one event stood out as the absolute highlight of the week: TV personality Josh McBride's annual birthday extravaganza. 

Mya, Josh, Aubrey O’Day, Que Mosley, Justina Valentine.
Photo Credit: Tylik Hill | Vocab Entertainment

Held at celebrity hotspot Somewhere Nowhere, the party saw over 400 invited guests arriving in their most stylish black and red outfits, adhering to the party's color scheme.  Emceed by DJ Nyce, talent and friends who came to wish Josh a Happy Birthday included Chris Redd (Saturday Night Live),  Sherri Shepherd, Que  Mosley  (MTV’s Making the Band Day 26), Justina Valentine, (Wild N Out), Derek Warburton (TV personality),  Kariselle Snow (Netflix Perfect Match),  Dia Simms (CEO Lobos 1707), Lisa Evers (FOX 5 NY), Joelle Garguilo (NY Live/Today Show) and Sameer Qureshi (owners of Somewhere Nowhere) and more.

Photo Credit: Tylik Hill | Vocab Entertainment

Party-goers were  treated to exquisite cocktails courtesy of LOBOS 1707 and Ten To One Rum, as well as delectable sweet treats provided by Baked By Melissa. The combination of premium spirits and mouth watering desserts set the tone for a night of unparalleled luxury and indulgence.

Josh McBride with treats from Baked By Melissa.
Photo Credit: Tylik Hill | Vocab Entertainment

But the real magic of the evening came from the surprise performances that left attendees in awe. First to take the stage was new-to-the-scene music artist Tyler Bragoli, being hailed as the next Justin Beiber, kicked off a performance with a cover of Beiber’s Baby, followed by his two original songs L.Y.L.Y.S and Star Baby. Next to follow was WanMor, sons of Boyz II Men's Wanya Morris, who led a  heartfelt rendition of  Happy Birthday to Josh and also performed  a few  of their new songs. And the show didn’t stop there—Grammy Award Winning Mya set the room on fire with her soulful melodies and hit songs that had the crowd feeling nostalgic. Jumping on stage for an impromptu performance was the fiery red hot rapper and star of VH1’s Wild N Out Justina Valentine, making the crowd go wild with her new song Mouth Go Crazy. And the surprises continued to roll out! The crowd couldn't contain themselves when Aubrey O'Day (Danity Kane)  took to the mic, captivating the audience with her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence. 

Mya performs.
Photo Credit: Tylik Hill | Vocab Entertainment

Just when everyone thought the party was ending, it only made sense to have NYC rap legend Ja Rule cap off the night with his hottest hits including New York,  Always on Time and Livin’ It Up.  His high-energy performance was the perfect way to end  this unforgettable night.

Ja Rule Performs
Photo Credit: Tylik Hill | Vocab Entertainment

AsianNYFW: A New Collective

For the past two days, St. Mary’s Church on the LES has been more than a house of god—thanks to the minds behind @AsianNYFW, it’s been a bona fide house of fashion.

Produced by award-winning PR executive Connie Chi and the Coalesce Collective from Minnesota, AsianNYFW is a platform for Asian designers to present their collections to the world while also building ties within their community. Drawing on their cultural heritage, daily life, and personal vision, the event’s 27 designers showcased innovative designs ranging in themes from gender fluidity and body diversity to struggles of the Asian-American identity. 

Collection from @ara.collectives

Of all the themes, however, one that stood out in particular was the commitment to slow fashion. Designers like Sukushine and LOWKEN made pieces using materials like secondhand clothing and plant-based leather that showed attendees just how fashionable ethical clothing can be. In a world where designers are the ones who start trends, a decision like that has enormous weight, and can go a long way towards making sustainable fashion the norm for both consumers and other designers. 

NYFW has evolved over the last few years, and Asian designers have played an essential role by introducing new aesthetics and perspectives to the world of fashion. Creatives like Alexander King Chen, named one of Taiwan’s top ten most influential people, have taken the medium to new heights by blending film and fashion for an experience that transcends traditional runway shows. But while there have been strides in representation, many are still reeling from the wave of asian-hate crimes that occurred during the pandemic. AsianNYFW made sure to address that. In between shows, guests took the time to share stories of how they were impacted by Asian Hate with AAP (I Belong), a non-profit that offers a space for AAPI to be open about the struggles and fears they face. More than anything, AsianNYFW served as a boost of positivity to a community that has been through much the last few years. 

Collection by @mengfeilin

Read more about AsianNYFW here. Want to attend next year’s event? Follow @AsianNYFW for recaps, updates, and future plans. 

Things to Do in September

Major Cultural Attractions

1. The U.S Open: Continues until September 10th.

2. New York Fashion Week: Runs from Sept. 7th to Sept. 13th.

3. New York Broadway Week: Get 2-for-1 tickets to 20+ broadway shows between September 4th-17th.

4. New Voices in Cinema 2023: For its seventh edition, New Voices will highlight nine films by visionary storytellers and include the new season of Quartiers Lointains.

5. The New York Film Festival: Opens on September 29th.

Food Events

1. Smorgasburg: Continues through Oct. 29th

2. JapanFes: Sept. 9th, 16th, and 17th.

3. Feast of San Gennaro: September 14th to 24th.

4. Uptown Night Market: September 14th.

Nightlife

1. Experience Passa Passa: A Night of Dancehall at Schimanski on 9/1

2. Jam to Cloonee Live at Somewhere Nowhere on 9/2.

3. Party after Ezoo at at Nebula with American DJ and electronic dance music producer 3Lau on 9/3.

4. Celebrate the cinematic release of My Big Fat Greek Party 3 at The Springs on 9/8

5. Get Your Laughs at Slate During the Jackknife Comedy Show on 9/26

6. Join The Angel Band Project for an intimate night of original music at Chelsea Table & Stage (152 W 26th St) on 9/21.

A Travel and Style Guide for a Weekend Out in Brooklyn

Among the five boroughs of New York City, Manhattan has always been known to draw the highest number of tourists with its endless supply of restaurants, bars, museums, and attractions. But a new study by Placer.ai reveals that Brooklyn is slowly catching up in terms of tourism. The borough recorded double-digit increases in foot traffic between 2019 and 2022, while Manhattan saw a 14% decrease in tourism during the same period.

As Brooklyn also remains the most populated borough in the city, this translates into more sights to see and more things to do for tourists. Since you’ll also want to blend in with the unique fashion styles of Brooklynites while you’re there on a weekend, here’s a travel and style guide to help you out.

Elevate a casual outfit for an NYC-approved brunch

In true New Yorker fashion, you can start your weekend in Brooklyn by grabbing brunch with family or friends. Among the best and classiest brunch spots is Barano, with its seasonal menu of freshly made pasta and wood-fired pizzas that go perfectly with cocktails. As you enjoy these delectable dishes and drinks on the outdoor patio, you may want to elevate a casual outfit of a shirt and jeans with gold jewelry and an oversized blazer from brands like Zara or Massimo Dutti. Alternatively, you can dress down a matching pantsuit by wearing socks and sneakers instead of heels.

Dress up for an afternoon at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Once you've filled and boozed up from brunch, it’s time to immerse yourself in nature by visiting the 52-acre Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Whether you’re looking to snap outfit photos or simply want to sit on the lawn surrounded by plants and flowers, make sure that your attire is appropriate for the weather. Note that wearing polarized sunglasses all year round is crucial to reduce glare and protect your eyes from ultraviolet damage while you're soaking in the sun. Tortoiseshell frames like the Impression can be paired with a Reformation sundress in the summer, while the black Borneo sunglasses are more suited for a monochrome fall outfit like dark denim with a black leather jacket.

Slip on comfortable shoes for a walk around Williamsburg

After a relaxing stay at the urban garden, spend the rest of your afternoon until nighttime getting up close and personal with Brooklyn’s rich culture and history. One way to do this is by dropping by the unique neighborhood of Williamsburg, where you’re free to explore the archives at the City Reliquary Museum, have a quintessential shopping experience at the Artists & Fleas, and catch a Hollywood or indie film at Nitehawk Cinema. Since you’ll be wandering around in this walkable area, slip on a pair of comfortable shoes, whether you're in a billowy dress or donning a simple combination of shirt and jeans. Additionally, Williamsburg is also home to several up-and-coming Brooklyn-based fashion brands. Lauren Gabrielson offers essential womenswear ranging from dresses to maternity clothing, while FLAN Labs is the go-to for kitschy menswear like patterned jackets and hoodies.

If you still can’t get enough of Brooklyn after an entire day out, extend your experience by exploring its rich nightlife of bars and clubs like the cozy, tropical-themed Bossa Nova Civic Club. Wherever you end up in Brooklyn, you’re guaranteed the best combination of dining, culture, and entertainment.