Elena Murzello - House Of Coco Magazine

Behind the bar July 14, 2023

Summer in the City: New York’s Best Rooftop Bars

Summer has arrived in New York City. What better way to admire the striking skyline than from a rooftop bar? With breathtaking views, happy hour specials and tasty food, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the summer. Below is a list of some notable ones around the city from Central Park, all the way Downtown.

Don’t forget to check out nyctourism.com to help you plan your next NYC getaway.

Central Park

Darling at the Park Lane New York

Located on the 47th floor of Park Lane Hotel, Darling is Central Park South’s only rooftop lounge offering a chic experience against a backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and iconic park. Darling provides an intimate and whimsical gathering space with an elevated cocktail menu and selection of thoughtfully curated food and beverage programming. Featuring a bold lounge with a wrap-around outdoor patio oasis, designed to embrace the expansive views. It is the final piece to the hotel and is the newest addition to Manhattan’s nightlife scene, bringing the eccentric spirit of the hotel to life. The food and beverage program has been created by Scott Sartiano, and includes a menu that features an eclectic mix of offerings such as seafood towers, caviar grilled cheese and A5 Wagyu Katsu Sando. This is complemented by extensive and inventive cocktails and spirits.

Midtown/Flatiron

Refinery Rooftop Bar at the Refinery Hotel

Credit: Refinery Rooftop

Midtown’s Refinery Hotel boasts a glamorous rooftop bar and lounge with impressive views of the Empire State Building and the Manhattan skyline. The American menu is designed for snacking and is accompanied by a signature cocktail list that is centered around natural ingredients and surprising pairings. Groups can order ‘cocktail caddies’ – four servings of their handcrafted cocktails, meant for sharing. The rooftop bar is a year-round destination, thanks to its retractable glass roof, there is a buzzing atmosphere no matter the season.

RT60 at Hard Rock Hotel New York

Credit: Hard Rock Hotel NYC

Located on the 33rd floor, RT60 delivers masterfully crafted cocktails, shareable bites and an effortlessly stylish scene. The music-themed bar is set to host world-renowned DJs and emerging local talent and boasts two outdoor terraces which offer incredible views of the surrounding Midtown skyline.

Bar 54 at Hyatt Centric Times Square

Credit: Chris Vilano

Set atop the 54-story tower of the Hyatt Centric Times Square, Bar 54 offers views that stretch across Manhattan from the East River to the Hudson River. Officially the highest hotel rooftop lounge in New York City, inside and outside, Bar 54 serves up tantalizing handcrafted cocktails and gourmet small plates.

Castell Rooftop Lounge at AC Hotel New York Times Square

Credit: Castell Rooftop Lounge

Perched atop the AC Hotel New York Times Square, offering iconic views, this cozy but modern rooftop bar has the spirit of the classic lounge, with extra emphasis on martinis. The venue’s contemporary décor provides a sophisticated but comfortable atmosphere to let off some steam. Guests can gather around the intimate fireplace lounge or the luxe granite bar or soak up some sun on the verdant, open-air terrace.

Haven Rooftop at The Sanctuary Hotel

Credit: Sanctuary Hotel New York

The Haven Rooftop, above The Sanctuary Hotel offers a perfect happy hour escape in Midtown. It’s just steps away from Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park and The Museum of Modern Art. Haven Rooftop offers $6 select beers, $9 glasses of wine and champagne, and $10 margaritas and from 4pm – 6pm, Monday – Friday. They also offer lunch and dinner service Monday through Sunday as well as bottomless brunch service on weekends. To capture the warmth of sunny days, order the Watermelon Mule featuring Tito’s Vodka, Watermelon, Orange Liqueur, and Ginger beer, or a glass of their Summer in a Bottle Rosé.

Sushi Lab Rooftop at The Sanctuary Hotel

Enjoy a modern take on traditional sushi from Executive Chef Frankie Chen at the Sushi Lab Rooftop. Delight in one-of-a-kind Japanese inspired cocktails Highlights like their Strawberry Geisha, featuring sake, shochu, yuzu, muddled strawberries and lychee or Spicy Toki 18, featuring Japanese whiskey, jalapeno, fresh lime and sparkling water utilize exotic fruits to craft a signature experience. Besides the creative Nigiri, Sashimi and Maki sushi, the star of the show is their omakase experience, utilizing only the freshest ingredients for lunch and dinner.

Apotheke NoMad at the Sonder Flatiron

Featuring a cellar speakeasy, penthouse lounge, and rooftop terrace, Apotheke NoMad is the second NYC outpost for the brand, expanding Apotheke’s apothecary-inspired cocktails and experience. Each week on Mondays from 8:30pm – 11:30pm Apotheke’s cellar speakeasy hosts a range of live music performances. The bar also offers bespoke academy mixology sessions in their penthouse lounge, which allows groups of up to 12 to choose a theme, liquor, or ingredient to be schooled in.

Nicolas O’Connor is behind the elaborate Garden-to-Glass cocktail menu, with many of Apotheke’s classic cocktails brought along with brand new creations such as sustainable caviar service and a selection of dumplings inspired by the bar’s Chinatown roots.

Lower East Side

Mr. Purple at the Hotel Indigo Lower East Side New York

Credit: Gerber Group

An NYC OG rooftop is Mr. Purple. It offers a menu focusing on locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients and an expansive collection of small-batch spirits, regionally brewed craft beers, universal wine offerings and a rotating cocktail menu. Mr Purple captures the vibrant and artistic spirit of the Lower East Side in its modern industrial vibe and offers panoramic views of the city.

The Highlight Room at the Moxy Lower East Side

In March, I had the pleasure of staying at the brand-new 303-room Moxy Lower East Side hotel. Michaelis Boyd and Rockwell Group worked on the hotel interior and architecture by Stonehill Taylor, giving references to the Lower East Side’s eclectic social history with the vibrancy of today.

Its convenient location houses five new food and beverage establishments created in collaboration with Tao Group Hospitality. Look up 16 stories above the intersection of Broome and Bowery, and you will find The Highlight Room. The glamorous rooftop bar is encased in glass and a majestic tree spreads its branches across the room and outdoor terrace.

Chelsea/Meatpacking

The Fleur Room at the Moxy Chelsea

A nod to the Flower District, you will find the Moxy Chelsea’s Fleur Room at 35 stories high. The new concept by Tao Group Hospitality and Angelo Bianchi, interiors that reference the Flower Market (a chandelier that resembles oversize water droplets; dazzling floral-patterned seating; and a copper-clad bar). A list of creative cocktails is accompanied by a simple, elegant menu of elevated bar snacks—warm olives with Marcona almonds, king crab club sandwich, truffle grilled cheese toast. The lounge area comes complete with a DJ booth and a massive vintage disco ball—a one-of-a-kind artifact salvaged from the 1980s L.A. nightclub Vertigo. The glass-enclosed rooftop lounge has expansive 360-degree views that stretch from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building. Like magic (and at the touch of a button), a retractable window wall transforms the lounge into an alfresco sky veranda.

Soho House New York (Members Only)

The original New York City Soho House is set over six floors of a former warehouse in the heart of the Meatpacking District. A stone’s throw from The High Line and Chelsea Market, it’s home to (no pun intended) Soho House’s first-ever rooftop pool. The rooftop underwent a complete refresh ahead of the summer 2022 season and embraces a new floral-inspired design featuring Rosé-hued pastel tones and two new fully renovated bar areas. The pool is surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas and boasts views of lower Manhattan. A menu of poolside fare, Soho House Favorites, and specialty cocktails also grace the House in addition to a whole host of events and pop-ups on the rooftop terrace.

Daintree at the Hotel Henricks

Daintree sits atop Hotel Hendricks in Chelsea, and offers an unforgettable happy hour, two times a day! Pop in for an evening drink between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. or a nightcap from 11pm till close. Enjoy $12 sips such as the Aussie Spritz, Blood Orange Mule, Negroni, Old Fashioned and Mojito, discounted beers and wines like $10 Domaine De Moulin or $6 Reissdorf Kolsch, $8 bubbles, as well as a rotating list of bar snacks such as Hummus & Crudite, Boudin Balls, and and House Fries with Black Garlic Aioli for $6-$12.

Somewhere Nowhere NYC at the Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel

Somewhere Nowhere NYC is a bi-level lounge, nightclub and rooftop pool complete with floor-to-ceiling windows with 360-degree views. Escape the busy Chelsea streets to the 38/39th floors of the Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel to this 5,516 square foot luxury daylife and nightlife destination.

Guests can wind down after work with creative yet delicious cocktails and tapas or dance to live music. Ongoing events include Gotham Jazz on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. and Trusted Mic with The Rakiem Walker Project Band on Fridays at 5 p.m.

Downtown

PHD Rooftop Lounge at the Dream Downtown

PHD Rooftop Lounge is Dream Downtown’s rooftop nightclub and lounge bar decked out with uninterrupted views of the Hudson River and Empire State Building. With two full-service bars, a fully-equipped DJ booth and a retractable canopy for an outdoor terrace, PHD is one of the best rooftops in New York City. Located at Dream Downtown, a New York City lifestyle hotel with an emphasis on service and after-dark possibilities, there is no better place to experience exquisite Manhattan views.

City breaks June 4, 2023

The Best New York City Brunch Spots

Who does not love brunch? It is the meal of the day, where all the juicy gossip of the events of the night prior get discussed at length. Think Sex and the City/And Just Like That/ Gossip Girl. Brunch always supports that tête-à-tête.

Here are some great spots in the city to partake in the perfect combo of breakfast and lunch:

Cecconi’s, The Ned NoMad

The Ned NoMad hotel and private club welcomes visitors and guests to Manhattan’s first Cecconi’s restaurant. Open seven days a week from 7am-11pm guests can find themselves at the modern-day classic Northern Italian restaurant for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Those seeking a posh brunch featuring modern cuisine can look to Cecconi’s with selections from Cacio pepe scrambled eggs and Buttermilk pancakes topped with caramel and blueberry syrup, off of the breakfast menu, to hand-made pasta, wood-oven pizza, and seafood classics off of the all-day menu. I cannot wait to try Cecconi’s when I am back in the city.

Milady’s

Milady’s officially launches its outdoor terrace this spring, positioned on the corner of Prince and Thompson Street, right in the heart of Soho. Diners can soak up the sun while sipping on a line-up of refreshing cocktails, created by owner and bar-industry veteran Julie Reiner, such as the Milady’s Spritz, Hawaiian Iced Tea, or an American Whiskey Highball. There’s also delicious elevated and produce-focused fare for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, including Steak Tartare, Caviar Dip, and a house-made Veggie Burger.

Saint Theo’s

As the premier brunch destination in the heart of West Village, Saint Theo’s boasts an elevated Venetian-inspired weekend lunch menu. Served exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays from 12PM-2:30PM, menu highlights include Saint Theo’s classics including Tuna Crudo with lemon zest, olive oil and seasalt; Beef Carpaccio with mushroom, arugula, aioli and balsamic vinegar and the Seabass Linguine with dill, la passata and garlic oil. The breezy, vibrant 110-seat space uplifts a dining room, bar, and lounge, with an eclectic mix of vintage and modern design features including colorful Murano glass sconces, Venice Biennale exhibition posters, framed Pirelli calendars and deep green linen banquettes.

THIEF

Thief combines the precision and craft of a world-class cocktail program with the edge and artistic culture of New York City in the ‘80s. Located at 161 Ludlow St, the bar pairs classic and modern art pieces, graffiti murals and a killer playlist with a distinctive cocktail menu and expansive food offering. Thief recently launched brunch with twists on classic brunch favorites like french toast served with apple mezcal caramel and mezcal maple butter.

Valerie

Midtown East’s Valerie, known for its extensive gin library and lively happy hours, has unveiled their boozy rendition of morning tea time. The Tea with the Queen, is a spiked cuppa with English breakfast & bergamot infused Navy Strength Gin, Luxardo Bianco, Punt e Mes, and orange juice. If you’re looking for an excuse to have a G&T at 11am, the Chai Gin & Tonic includes chai infused Fundy Gin (with notes of earthy, sweet juniper berry & citrus peel), lemon, Havi Amer, cardamom bitters, and Fever Tree Premium Indian Tonic. Guests can pair these brunch libations with lemon ricotta pancakes with cardamom and crab salad and egg toast with roe which are a few of their new dishes.

Isla & Co

Isla & Co. is Parched Hospitality Group’s popular Aussie all-day cafe and restaurant with locations in Midtown at Hotel Hendricks and in Williamsburg adjacent to the William Vale. Executive Chef Matt Foley’s brunch menu, which is served daily until 3pm, includes favorites like Brioche French Toast, Isla Benedict, Smashed Avocado Toast and Mushroom Toast. There are new additions to the menu like Kangaroo Tucker, traditional Australian rubbed kangaroo skewered over herbed tahini, marinated cucumbers and pickled onions. I highly recommend the Kangaroo Tucker! Brunch pairs perfectly with an Aperol Spritz, Bloody Mary or Espresso Martini.

Ainslie Bowery

Ainslie is now open in the 20,000 square foot space that formerly occupied Vandal at 199 Bowery on the Lower East Side. Ainslie has remained a neighborhood favorite in Williamsburg since its flagship location opened in 2019. Ainslie’s kitchen is helmed by Executive Chef John DeLucie serving a menu filled with Italian favorites ranging from wood-fired pizzas and Eggs in Purgatory to French Toast and Pancetta & Pecorino Omelette.

Haven Rooftop, Sanctuary Hotel

Haven Rooftop above the Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown is ready for diners to escape to. Haven offers delicious food and craft cocktails. Favorites include sliders, tuna tartare, and Times Square Omelet, Acai Bowl and Brunch Pizza with eggs sunny side, mozzarella, tomato sauce, bacon. Pair that with a Cloudtini or Summer Sangria for a truly elevated experience. Brunch can be made bottomless for $29 with the purchase of an entree for an hour.

Hole in the Wall

Hole in the Wall has locations in FiDi, Murray Hill, in Flatiron at Hotel Henri and Williamsburg . Signature dishes from Executive Chef Matthew Foley include a Chili Scramble, Avocado Toast and a Brekky Roll with applewood smoked bacon, chorizo pate, folded eggs, chimichurri and mayo on a milk bun with tots on the side. You can also enjoy the Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich or Crispy Pork Belly with sticky glaze, chili, fried shallots and lime. Sip on a Jalapeno Bloody Mary, a Blood Orange Negroni, an Aperol Spritz or a Mimosa any time of day.

Amali

Amali features seasonal Mediterranean fare that’s locally sourced and served in a sleek space. The restaurant’s Executive Chef Alex Tubero works with many small farmers, purveyors and fishermen, resulting in frequent menu changes. Amali is currently serving Soft Scramble with Bloomsdale spinach, feta, lemon and flatbread, Shakshuka, Cavatelli and Wild Mushroom Caponata along with many others for brunch.

Carnegie Diner & Cafe

Carnegie Diner & Cafe is located on the corner of West 57th Street and 7th Avenue, steps from the iconic Carnegie Hall in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The diner and cafe is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner indoors and outside seven days a week. It pays homage to the diners of yesteryear in its design only but has a menu made for today, with something for everyone. Menu items feature an extensive all-day breakfast menu in addition to serving up salads, burgers, sandwiches, main entrees, pastas and desserts.

Carroll Place

Carroll Place is a classic Italian American wine bar and gastropub in the heart of Greenwich Village. The brunch menu, created by Chef John DeLucie is filled with favorites like Eggs Benedict, Penne Alla Vodka, Pappardelle and more with 1 1/2 hours of unlimited brunch drinks for $30 with the purchase of any entree. which pair perfectly with the restaurant’s artisan cocktails, beers and 25 wines by the glass.

Loulou

Loulou is a stunning French Bistro and Speakeasy in Chelsea with one of the most stunning outdoor seating options in town. Signature menu items from Executive Chef Jarett Brodie include a Loulou Burger made with grass-fed beef, cheddar and caramelized onions, Duck Leg Confit with apple rosemary puree and gala chutney and Steak Frites. That’s in addition to a large selection of gorgeously crafted cocktails, which you can indulge in, in the dining room or by entering the restaurant’s speakeasy via a vintage Coca-Cola vending machine door on 8th Avenue.

Accessories June 3, 2023

Behind the Brand: A Q & A with Pentire’s founder, Ed Grieg-Gran

Tell me about Pentire’s origin story.

Pentire is all about active living and being outdoors; we set out to create healthy drinks for folks who shared our love of those things.

After spending almost a year working experimenting with plants from our local coastline in Cornwall, UK; we landed on our first non-alcoholic spirit, Pentire Adrift. There are now 5 products in our range including our non-alcoholic aperitif, the Pentire Coastal Spritz, which is bright red and has quickly become our best seller!

I joined Frosty, my co-founder, a few months into starting the business and fast forward four years, I’m now living on Venice Beach in California. Since launching Pentire in the USA, our growth has quadrupled and it’s super exciting to see our active community growing across the pond. There’s something pretty special about seeing people drinking Pentire at Malibu Farm after starting the brand in our tiny flat in Cornwall a few years ago.

How is Pentire different from other non-alcoholic beverages on the market?

Pentire is all about health and active living and we’re more interested in building a brand centred around that lifestyle than pushing sobriety.

We’re not trying to encourage people to stop drinking (and interestingly 80% of our customers still drink alcohol) – just making sure there’s a healthy and delicious option out there for folks that share our love for keeping active and healthy.

All of our drinks have this delicious coastal flavour profile too, which is pretty unique in our space.

Why is being a certified B Corp company important to Pentire?

Ultimately, Pentire is about giving people clarity of mind to enjoy meaningful experiences outdoors, so looking after mother nature from the start and making sure our whole team can get outside and be active during the working day was a non-negotiable.

We’ve tried to make ethical decisions at every stage of building the business to stay true to this, from using carbon-offset deliveries to recyclable packaging and working with amazing charities who share our love for the ocean like Blue Marine Foundation.

Probably the best thing about being a B Corp is being part of the community that comes with it. Everyone is super inspiring and we learn a lot from each other.

What’s next for Pentire?

We’re just super excited to grow our like-minded community in the USA.

There’s a great surf scene in Cali and Pentire feels like a really natural fit here – we’ve actually just launched our range of pre-mixed cans in Erewhon Market and have listings in places like Butchers Daughter, Malibu Farm and Soho House – so we’re excited to see what happens next.

Where can one purchase Pentire?

You can shop Pentire from our online store and we’re also stocked in a range of retailers across the USA like Erewhon, Boisson, and activewear store, Huckberry – the best way to find your local store is to visit the stockist page on our website.

Accessories May 14, 2023

The Marvelous Mauritius

After spending what seemed like eternity in the cold, rainy polar vortex, I escaped. Once completing my first red-eye to London from Vancouver, I refreshed myself for another long flight ahead. Periodically, on the direct Air Mauritius journey from London, I would consult our map on our exact location. I finally located the small island in the vast, beautiful turquoise Indian Ocean. Mauritius, is approximately 1865 km2 or 470,000 acres and is volcanic in origin, thanks to the now dormant volcano on neighboring Réunion Island.

The morning Mauritian sun was ready to greet us, as we emerged from our plane and conveniently remained throughout our stay. There are only two seasons in Mauritius: Summer (October to April) and Winter (May to September). There is a mild climate all year round with an average temperature of 25ºC, which makes Mauritius the perfect year round destination. Our group had the unique experience of sampling a few Marriott properties on the island. While common denominators included the warm and inviting Mauritian hospitality and direct access to the tepid Indian Ocean; they each had their own unique vibe.

Quiet Luxury

Our adventure started at the JW Marriott Mauritius, which is located in the southwest Rivière Noire District. It lies on the Le Morne Peninsula. The sheltered lagoon, coupled with the large waves, makes Le Morne Peninsula ideal for both beginner and advanced kite surfers from around the globe. Mauritius hosts several international kite surfing competitions each year, such as Kiteival and Kite Jam. Stock photos of Mauritius often showcase Le Morne Brabant – a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is nearby the JW Marriott.

Fresh from our journey (although not feeling very fresh at the moment), we were whisked away by golf cart to our suites by our butlers. In fact, there are only suites (172 in total) at the JW. From the king-sized bed to the oval bathtub, it would be easy to vegetate in your room. But why stay indoors, when the beach and the Indian Ocean are right outside your door?

Settling into island life was only a time adjustment – never a quality adjustment. The turn down service and service button located at each beach lounge umbrella, made assistance both accessible and attentive. There was a delicate dance between being helpful (A mosquito repellent cream magically appeared on my night stand, after I had a short casual conversation about bug bites) and not feeling overpowering or uncomfortable. The JW Marriott Mauritius staff seemed to know exactly what we needed. Case in point, when we arrived back to our rooms at the end of our first night’s dinner at the elegant South Asian fusion Floating Market restaurant, a warm bath was already drawn with the perfect water temperature.

The next morning, we toured the island on e-bike. It was a fabulous way to see Mauritius, and I welcomed the physical activity after the long journey. Not to mention, biking along a triathlon route in the heat was a humbling experience.

The serenity of the result was all encompassing. It was busy, but I did not feel busy. At the time, it was 80% full, yet it never seemed to be over crowded with people. The most people I saw at any given point was during common meal times.

The morning of our last day at the JW, we had breakfast in one of the largest private villas in the Indian Ocean. The sprawling, Grand Beachfront Villa sleeps up to eight adults and eight children across four luxuriously designed villas (three of which have their own private pool). Spread over an impressive 17,870 sq. ft (1,660 square meters), there is secluded beach and a dedicated 24-hour butler, as well as an array of in-villa facilities such as a bar, games room, fitness center, infinity pool and more. Available by private booking only, it fits those with the most discerning of tastes.

Dazzling Delights

As we entered the lobby of the Le Méridien Ile Maurice, from our day of sightseeing in Chamarel (Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, Chamarel Waterfall, Rivière Noire Gorges), we were transported to a sun-filled palace. Accents of black, cream and gold marble adorn the entryway. It was posh, without the pretension. We were thankful for the refreshing, cool facial towels and a welcome drink that greeted us at the door.

The $60 million dollar renovation transformed the Le Méridien Ile Maurice to the place where friends and family can gather in the northwest Pamplemousses region. The property boasts 261 newly designed guestrooms and suites, an adults-only Nirvana wing, world-class spa and fitness center, three pools and a choice of four restaurants and three bars.

Before having a wonderful Mauritian meal at the beachfront Zoli Mamzel restaurant, I learned the art of sabrage. Sabrage is opening a champagne bottle with a saber. To our delight, everyone tried their hand at Sabrage throughout our stay, which kept the bubbles flowing. The Zoli Mamzel deck and restaurant was my favorite. Set on the beachfront, it has a wonderful unobstructed view of the sunset.

Not that we needed an excuse to relax, the next day we spent the afternoon indulging in the redesigned Explore Spa. Paul Bishop was at the helm of the renovation and transformed the space into a peaceful oasis with five treatment rooms. Besides the standard massages and facials, the spa offers hot-cold therapy as well. It was invigorating to try Mauritius’ very first and only snow room after sweating it out in the steam and sauna room. A must do for your visit to Le Méridien Ile Maurice.

Tranquil Wellness

We closed out our trip with a night at the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa. Located in the northwest Pamplemousses region and on 800 meters (10 hectares) of beachfront within the tranquil and protected Turtle Bay Marine Park. With 190 spacious guest rooms and suites, each with its own private balcony or terrace, an adult-only Whisper Zone, a state-of-the-art spa and 24-hour fitness center, two outdoor pools and 5 restaurants and 2 bars. The property is a combination of the best of the two resorts mentioned prior, in one idyllic location.

Like the JW Marriott Mauritius, the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa’s layout is spread out along the beachfront. Every guest room and suite overlooks a stunning ocean view and either has an outside terrace or balcony. My room was a Deluxe Family room, complete with a Heavenly® king-sized bed with a double Heavenly® day bed tucked in the corner. The massive marble bathroom has a separate shower room, soaker tub, and topped off with White Tea by WestinTM bath amenities.

The property, like the Le Méridien Ile Maurice, has a world-class spa. The Heavenly Spa by WestinTM, has a large focus on wellbeing. The spa offers a Be Well/Ness Sunday package providing guests with a holistic mind and body experience consisting of a private consultation with one of the resort’s wellness experts, a rejuvenating 60-minute massage, access to the Eat Well Buffet, serving fresh and organic dishes. Taking a short break from the sun and maintaining our relaxed mood, we participated in a Mandala art therapy class.

Is it a lengthy journey to Mauritius? Yes. Yet, having visited, I can attest that the charm of the island goes beyond the cliché of a “hidden gem.” The island is not hidden and is well worth the journey. Once you arrive, you will truly experience an island full of magic and marvel, paired with hospitality of the Mauritian people, that wraps guests in the warmth of the Indian Ocean.

Accessories May 1, 2023

Here comes the Bride!

Dovetailing on Sofia Ritchie’s star-studded France wedding, NADINE MERABI releases a beautiful collection ready for wedding season. Say ‘I do’ to a forever love. Bridal SS’23 incorporates 13 designs with 12 brand new pieces and 1 already known and loved piece revamped in white for the bride. This collection incorporates a beaded and floral story along with a selection of other stand-alone breath-taking designs like jumpsuits, fitted shorts and crepe maxi fishtail skirts.

I love the complimentary detachable tonal slip dresses, available for both the beaded and floral dresses. The slip dress can be worn underneath as a layering piece to provide extra coverage while creating the illusion of a luxurious sheer finish when worn on the body. Available in both light nude or dark nude.

“Offering tonal slips ensures that everyone can wear MERABI. We are inclusive and we continually ensure our designs match this by offering pieces that everyone can feel comfortable in.” – NADINE MERABI Design Team

These 13 styles create a collection encapsulating timeless beauty and glamour. A true ode to tradition but a nod to the modern bride.

Exclusively available at Nadinemerabi.com.

Check out this article from the knot about finding your perfect wedding dress.

Accessories May 1, 2023

All About Elle

In 1981 with a loan of £100, Karen Millen bought 1,000 metres of cotton and began creating white shirts to sell to friends. Now, more than four decades later, the brands’ ICON series partners with one of the best in the business, International Supermodel Elle Macpherson. The series highlights iconic women from the Eighties, Nineties and Noughties.

This fourth volume, entitled All About Elle, has Elle Macpherson at the center. Instantly recognisable across the globe, she has sustained her reputation as The Body, the brains and the beauty.

Hear from Elle…

How would you define your personal style?

Elle: I believe style is a reflection of your attitude and your spirit; how you are in this world. My personal style tends to be ‘heart-led’ which makes it natural and effortless.

What are your favourite pieces from the edit?

Elle: There are so many great pieces from this collection. I really love the yellow suit, it had an easy masculine/feminine almost Japanese-inspired vibe. The long black dress was so chic, sexy and effortless and I see myself wearing it with flip flops even on the red carpet – that’s very much my style! I also loved the white oversized jacket. It was the first look we shot and it really set the tone for the whole shoot.

I think the look that surprised me the most was the fluorescent green short dress and jacket which I actually loved, it had a real ‘90s supermodel feel.

What are your wardrobe essentials?

Elle: My personal wardrobe essentials anchor to quality and simplicity, and I love white and cream, no matter what the season!

The curated dedicated edits inspired by their style, fused with the brand’s classic design will be available at karenmillen.com.

Accessories April 28, 2023

Earth Day, Every Day

As Earth Month comes to a close, we should recognize that if we are really looking to make a difference –Everyday should be Earth Day.

Expanding on my original story for House of Coco, which you can read here; adding a few more brands that make sustainability a pillar of their brand ethos.

Ready – To – Wear

Craghoppers

70% of this outdoor clothing brand is made using recycled materials and the brand is continuing to focus on developing technology that is planet friendly. The water repellent technology named EcoShield DWR, uses 63% renewably sourced content from a variety of plant-based sources.

ETICA

Based in Los Angeles, ÉTICA is rooted in the ideals of fair labor practices and environmentally conscious manufacturing. Their factory, Hera Apparel has been manufacturing for the premium denim industry for over 20 years by using the most sustainable and eco-friendly technologies available. The brand is a supporter of One Tree Planted, a non-profit organization focused on global reforestation. For every purchase made on eticadenim.com a tree is planted.

French Lime

Founded by Denise Saad, French Lime is the sustainable athleisure brand designed to last (with a 10-year warranty), using quick dry eco-friendly fabric that won’t lose its shape or vibrancy.

Kinflyte

Designed by women, for women. The patented Posture System will support your posture and lifestyle, no matter what you do. Offering sizes in XXS-6XL, and A-K Cup, the brand prides themselves on being an inclusive brand that creates sustainable apparel to help everybody move better.

Kindly

Kindly, the planet-friendly, Walmart-exclusive intimates brand, is on a mission to make the world a kinder place. Launched by the lingerie manufacturer Gelmart, the brand’s goal is to offer affordable, inclusive, and sustainable intimates to consumers. All of the products in the line – which also include underwear – is made from 75% recycled materials. The brand partnered with Walmart to bring you the first-ever plant-based bra cup made from sugarcane, and a collection of intimates sourced from recycled materials.

LA RELAXED

This female-founded eco-friendly brand is making clothes in a more responsible way, all under one roof in Los Angeles. It takes less than 100 steps to complete a garment, dramatically reducing their carbon footprint. LA RELAXED is made in limited runs, using natural fibers and deadstock fabrics, offering beautiful pieces designed to be worn across seasons and trends.

LILYSILK

The sleepwear and home brand uses the finest Grade 6A silk from China – the producer of the world’s finest silk and Grade A Cashmere from Inner Mongolia. LILYSILK partnered with TerraCycle on a Recycling Program, which offers a free and convenient way to recycle non-donatable silk and cashmere products including bedding, women’s/men’s apparel, and sleepwear.

Losano

Made locally in Los Angeles, Losano empowers consumers to reduce waste by buying less and investing in quality. The collection of elevated fitness wear, lounge sets, and athleisure uses recycled and recycled and eco-friendly materials throughout. Losano’s high-performance garments don’t sacrifice style or comfort and are available direct-to-consumer.

Londre Bodywear

Londre Bodywear is a sustainable fashion label offering ultra-flattering swimwear made from recycled plastic bottles and butter-soft loungewear made from sustainably harvested wood pulp. Dreamt up by founders Ainsley Rose and Hannah Todd on a beach in Mexico with the goal to empower and educate women on both environmental issues and social change. Ranging from versatile swim pieces to beachy loungewear, all pieces are available on LondreBodywear.com ranging from sizes XS – 5XL.

Luxeire

Luxeire’s mission is to provide women with sustainable, sophisticated wardrobe essentials that are exceptional quality, comfortable and easy-care. Developed from founder Gina Kuyers’ frustration with the discomfort and high maintenance of luxury clothing. With a 20-year career and PhD in school psychology, Gina spent decades applying research to real-world problem solving. She brought these well-honed skills to the challenge of designing and producing a line of elevated wardrobe staples made from luxurious, eco-friendly technical fabrics.

Marcella NYC

The sustainable fashion brand founded by Siyana Huszar, creates minimalist with an edge, pieces for the ultimate New York City woman and beyond. Their just-in-time production practices help the brand to stay on top of trends without creating unnecessary waste while using fully sustainable materials. With their vertical integration, the brand focuses on fair wages and compensation for all workers starting with their production teams including initiatives to enhance the livelihood of girls and women around the world. Marcella NYC is ensuring their impact is anything but minimal but always sustainable.

Neem London

The London based brand’s collection ranges from T-shirts to collared shirts, sustainable merino knits, and regenerative cotton button downs, all allowing for essential style with the advantage of supporting a carbon neutral company ethos.

Nudies and Nubies Essentials

Nikki Chu, a celebrity interior designer and entrepreneur, created Nudies for women who are always on the go, love to travel, and still enjoy being chic during that time of the month. The designs have a gentle effect on the environment and are made with biodegradable 100% cotton fabric with recyclable packaging and low impact dyes. Nudies recently expanded into the kids sector with Nubies , to encourage children to practice hygiene at a young age.

State Cashmere

To maintain the quality of its products, State Cashmere ensures sustainable practices across all facets of the process committing to sustainability and transparency; proudly being fair-trade and cruelty-free. Using pure Grade A cashmere and offering the fairest prices without compromising the wages and livelihoods of their shepherds from inner Mongolia, State Cashmere works to raise the circular economy and sustainability initiatives in the cashmere industry.

Tiare Hawaii

Since 2009, all pieces from Tiara Hawaii are handmade with love in Bali using traditional dyeing techniques that have been used for centuries. Branching out (pun intended) the brands latest eco-friendly collection, Naturals uses fibres from Banana, Bamboo, Eucalyptus, Pineapple, and Mulberry Bark Silk.

Accessories

Allurez

Allurez offer lab-grown diamonds that are both eco-friendly and affordable. All Allurez jewelry is proudly crafted with love locally in New York, USA with superior materials and craftsmanship.

AMYO Jewelry

AMYO Jewelry make minimalist and classic pieces meant to last at an affordable price point. Not only, does the company guarantee a fair wage and good working conditions for their artisans, but also upcycles and recycles materials for new jewelry.

Emma Israelsson

Born in Stockholm and with a touch of Los Angeles, the Swedish brand quickly entered the fashion market when it launched in 2013. Offering sustainable and lasting jewelry, always on-trend, and with a signature piece and bestseller representing a Peace Dove, the collections have been must-haves for many.

Haverhill

The sustainable luxury jewelry brand uses ethical practices in all steps of their production. With conflict free, traceable and 100% recycled gold and silver, they are known for their ability to personalize necklaces, rings, and bracelets. Rooted in confidence and thoughtfulness, they crafted a series of premade collections that are dedicated to giving back and they are also currently donating funds to save the children in Ukraine with their new Solidarity collection.

Idyl

Idyl offers the finest materials handcrafted in their Antwerp ateliers. The brand’s signature modular design allows customers to mix and match various styles over time to grow a collection that is easy as it is affordable. In addition to transparent pricing, the Belgium born brand proudly donates a portion of all profits year-round to the Global Fund for Women, a global champion for the human rights of women and girls.

M.Gemi

Each week M.Gemi releases new, limited-edition designs. By effectively speeding up the supply chain and building small batches of inventory more rapidly than typical manufacturing models, they’ve created limited surplus inventory, allowing them to keep product out of landfills and in your closet at an accessible price point.

Merry People

Merry People is the Australia-based, female founded, unisex, vegan gumboots brand that look cool enough to wear anywhere! Merry People’s quality vegan rain boots are 100% waterproof and made with natural rubber and lined with 4-millimeter neoprene, which adds warmth and comfort to the entire shoe. Unlike other rainboots, Merry People boots hug the foot a little more, and lines the footbed, giving the whole shoe a much more snug, comfortable fit that only neoprene can.

Modern Picnic

Founded in 2018 by 25-year-old, Ali Kaminetsky, Modern Picnic was born following an attempt to find fashion-forward adult lunchboxes in lieu of wasteful brown paper and plastic shopping bags. Committed to using organic fabrics and ethical manufacturing, Modern Picnic aims to provide working women with a chic and sustainable alternative to the traditional lunchbox. Crafted with functionality in mind, Modern Picnic feature high-quality vegan leather exteriors, insulated interiors, and available in several rich colorways with an option for hand-painted monogramming.

Paradigm Eyewear

Paradigm Eyewear is committed to offering products that are produced responsibly and sustainably so that the consumer can feel as good about their processes as their products. Using ISCC-certified recycled materials in their latest collection enables Paradigm to reduce the amount of newly produced plastics while also meeting increasing customer demand for sustainable fashion. Throughout the year, Paradigm donates a percentage to the National Forest Foundation.

Interested in sustainable beauty too? Read this piece on VOGUE.

City Guides April 15, 2023

Beautiful Boutique New York City Hotels

Of course, New York is known for large hotels like the Palace, the Plaza, and the Waldorf-Astoria. But if you know, you know – the coolest stays are those Beautiful Boutique spots. With unique amenities, striking interiors and impeccable service, check these out for your next NYC getaway.

The Lowell

Established as a luxury hotel in 1927, The Lowell is found a block away from Central Park in the Upper East Side. The Lowell comes complete with a stylish restaurant, Majorelle and bar, Jacques, both of which are inspired by the iconic Yves Saint Laurent gardens in Marrakech. It is home to 74 rooms and suites, which offer guests the feeling of a private New York apartment. Many have spectacular views of Manhattan from beautiful terraces, gourmet kitchens and original, wood-burning fireplaces – a rare find in New York.

Smyth Tribeca

With only 100 guest rooms and suites, the Smyth offers an intimate city hideaway in one of the city’s most loved neighbourhoods, TriBeCa (Triangle Below Canal Street). The area is also home to the TriBeCa Film Center and the TriBeCa Film Festival.

Stay at the Smyth, and you might be able to spot acting heavyweights residents, like Meryl Streep, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Robert De Niro. Pressed for time? Get your sweat on at the 24-hour gym. Dining options include in-room dining, the Smyth Tavern and the Galerie Bar.

The Smyth Tavern serves up American tavern fare, including deviled eggs with caviar, a raw bar, and dry-aged steaks. In the lobby of the hotel, you can find the Galerie Bar. It’s a hidden, 12-seat bar with a front lounge and two cozy fireplaces. Perfect for your next fireside chat over some light bites.

Photo Credit: Chris Sanders

MADE Hotel

On my last visit to NYC, I walked into Paper Coffee (in the lobby of the MADE Hotel) for a meeting and I made, (pun intended) a mental note to put this lovely boutique hotel on my list for my next New York stay.

Found in NoMad (29th and Broadway), this Scandi-style hotel features leafy green plants, bronze fixtures, wooden accents and bohemian fabrics that make my heart swoon. The low wooden platform beds hold comfy mattresses topped with Frette linens for the best night’s sleep. Keep your room tidy, with the foldable Maple Desk and hidden storage for your luggage in the platform bed frame.

The on-site restaurant, Debajo, is a tapas-inspired concept. Rooftop bar, Good Behaviour can be found on the 18th floor, while the Lobby Bar and Paper Coffee share the adjacent spaces on the main level.

Photo Credit: Lester Ali

Crosby Street Hotel

The first New York property for the London-based Firmdale Hotel group opened in Fall 2009 and has been a stateside jewel ever since. The 86 individually designed bedrooms and suites are spread over 11 floors, featuring floor-to-ceiling warehouse-style windows with tall headboards and sleek modern furniture. All design elements reflect Co-Owner and Creative Director Kit Kemp’s style.

The hotel is both colourful and quirky, with personally selected antique and modern elements. It is certified GOLD LEED by the US Green Building Council, making it one of the very first hotels in New York to have this certification.

The Crosby Bar serves food and drink throughout the day and is a great place to meet for breakfast, morning coffee, a casual lunch or dinner, afternoon tea or evening cocktails. Here, there is no distinction between a bar and a restaurant – guests can eat or drink wherever they wish. The bar opens onto a garden oasis with shady trees and ivy-covered walls serving guests respite from the busy city.

The High Line Hotel

From a 17th-century apple orchard to an 18th-century cloistered seminary, The High Line Hotel has transformed into Chelsea Square’s architectural masterpiece. The preserved gothic moulding and fireplaces are only highlighted by the hand-selected, one-of-a-kind pieces (like vintage typewriters) sourced from antique fairs and vintage markets alike. These fine details can be experienced in the 60 oversized, light-filled rooms.

This location is the ideal spot to explore Chelsea. Guests are welcome to borrow complimentary Shinola bicycles and a helmet for a ride to Hudson River Park or for use in the local area. Before you leave, say hello to Daisy, the 1957 London double-decker bus that is parked in the front garden. Or grab a coffee to go at Intelligentsia. When you return, switch your coffee for a cocktail at the Lobby Bar.

Photo Credit: The High Line Hotel

The Greenwich Hotel

I simply cannot write about TriBeCa and forget about The Greenwich Hotel. The hotel concept was conceived by Ira Drukier and Robert DeNiro, along with their partners Richard Born and Raphael De Niro, and created with regard to comfort and hand-crafted beauty. Look for the Moroccan tile, hand-loomed Tibetan silk rugs and hand-made Italian terracotta floors throughout the hotel.

The Greenwich Hotel has 88 rooms, thirteen suites, and two duplex suites: the Greenwich and the N. Moore. No two rooms are alike. Some suites have saunas and others have working fireplaces. The duplex suites have 30-foot skylights, chef’s kitchens, and two master bedrooms with two bathrooms, stone fireplaces, and offices with separate entrances. On the top floor, there is a 2,500-square-foot penthouse. It is complete with a rooftop garden with a private hot tub.

Eat at the adjoining Locanda Verde “Green Inn”. Its casual Italian dining offers views of the wood-burning oven and the open kitchen. In summer, Locanda Verde has outdoor cafe seating on Greenwich Street’s broad sidewalks. It also provides 24-hour room service to the hotel.

The Shibui Spa houses a lantern-lit swimming pool and lounge under the roof of a 250-year-old wood and bamboo farmhouse that has been reconstructed in the hotel by Japanese craftsmen. Try an Onsen ritual that pairs a tub soak with a soothing massage after a day exploring the city.

Photo Credit: Yoshihiro Makino for The Leading Hotels of The World

Accessories April 15, 2023

Long Haul Carry-on Essentials

Packing for your next getaway? As more of us are leaning towards carry-on only, to avoid long wait times or lost luggage – every square inch in our personal bags/suitcases matter.

I recently traveled 20 hours to Mauritius. For the record, the journey spanned two flights starting in Vancouver, Canada to London, UK then on to Port Louis, Mauritius. For my 6 night excursion on the other side of the world, I expertly packed my carry on all of the resort-ready essentials – everything from pool-side to 5 star dinner.

Here’s a carry-on checklist that will help you get to your next destination unscathed. No matter how long the flight.

Skincare

On any flight, moisture is key. While it is all about drinking water and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, why not take advantage of the idle time on a long-haul flight and work on your skin care at the same time? Patchology has both On Ice Under Eye Gels and Hydrogel Masks in single use packets.

Pack these AMEŌN Skin Frozen Essence Glow Manifesto Ice Cubes for the night you arrive at your destination. Pop them in the freezer (or surround with ice bucket or glass and put in the fridge) when you arrive and use them throughout your stay. If you tend to get swollen in the heat, you might find this helpful to decompress at night.

Because not all airport lounges are created equal, nor do all of us have access to them – use these Beia Beauty Refresh Wipes to freshen up. Although this will not take the place of a shower, it will make you feel less grimy. Especially if you have back-to-back flights and short layovers.

I’m such a fan of this MD Solar Sciences Mineral BB Crème with SPF 50. It’s lightweight, easy to apply and has natural looking coverage. Moisturizer with a tint does double duty; wear it alone or under makeup.

All sunscreen, all the time. Habit Skin N°41 SPF MISTER brings you a mist that smells wonderful and protects you too. The mist is a nice ultra-fine application, but still gives you SPF 41 broad spectrum.

Since we are on the topic of sunscreen, my favorite body one is NIVEA SUN Protect & Moisture SPF 50+ Lotion. Extremely moisturizing and acts more like straight up lotion. Last year, this saved me while trekking in the Himalayas. The sunscreen comes in a larger (250 ml) and a travel size (100 ml).

Who doesn’t love a good hand sanitizer that won’t liquify in certain temperatures unlike gels? This Saje Hand Sanitizer comes in two sizes and smells of lime and aloe vera. It will also take up less room in your luggage than wipes and is unlikely to dry out too.

Natural Patch Buzz Patch Mosquito Repellent Stickers offer full protection that lasts for 12 hours and wears off over a 24–72-hour period from opening. Don’t worry if the citronella essential oil stickers don’t match your outfit – they are equally effective if you wear them inside your clothes. A great alternative to Deet products.

Makeup

One could argue that makeup is unnecessary on the flight, but nothing beats a healthy glow when those lights come up indicating the plane is ready for landing.

The ICONIC LONDON Rollaway Glow is a rollerball liquid highlighter with no glitter or shimmer. It’s an instant illuminator which adds radiance and a pearlescent finish. It’s the perfect size to pack and is available in three different shades – Peach Paradise, Rose Potion and Champagne.

Wanting a hint of color with hydration? Try the ICONIC LONDON Melting Touch Lip Balm. Like the name suggests, this magic lip balm just melts on. Available in five shades, my go-to is Love Language.

Hair

Have you seen the viral reel with the gal using a sock curler during a flight to obtain the perfect blow-out look upon arrival?

As a person with wavy hair – I get it. I braid my wet hair and use either amika On Lock Hold Hair Wax (to define my curls and for my ends) after it dries on the plane mid-flight. Then before landing I give my hair a good shake upside down as a reset.

During a beach holiday, I love how much volume the salt-air and humidity can give me naturally. Yet I need products to maintain the structure of the curl like the BondiBoost Curl Boss Shampoo and Conditioner.