Valentine's Day: Fall in Love with New York City

We love New York City for many reasons. It is the place we call home and live our passion - real estate. It is also full of so many cultures and experiences. Falling in love with New York City is easy, although everyone loves it for a different reason. Perhaps it is your neighborhood, the restaurants, the array of different types of people you meet, museums, or shopping.

Below are some ideas of ways to celebrate the day that is all about love - Valentine's Day. If you are single this year, that doesn't mean you can't have some fun. Grab a friend and take one of our suggestions to fall in love with New York City!

Romantic Things to Do:

Ice Skate in Wollman Rink - Wollman Rink is one of the most iconic skating rinks in the city. Set just inside Central Park off of Central Park South, therink is positioned to take in beautiful skyline views of the 57th Street corridor. Wollman is hosting a Valentine's Day special which includes admission for 2 adults and 2 skate rentals for $35.

The Love Of Chocolate Class - The L'Ecole Valrhona in DUMBO will be hosting a "Love of Chocolate Class" which will teach attendees how to make treats such as macarons and bonbons. The class will be led by an expert chef who will guide attendees as they enjoy chocolatey cocktails, share hors d'oeuvres, and make a Valentine's dessert. For $119 the class includes champagne, a recipe book, apron, and 20% off the Valrhona website.

Romance Under the Stars- This swanky soiree will be held at the American Museum of Natural History’s Rose Center for Earth and Space. It will feature an open bar with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with a jazz quartet before the show. After mingling, guests will move to the planetarium while Astronomers tell love stories based on the methodology of the cosmos.

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon: Mr. Robuchon was anointed “Chef of the Century” in 1989 and has become the most awarded chef alive. After his Atelier closed in New York City in 2012, he is back in the Meatpacking District! Those who have gone have described the experience at Atelier like none other, finding themselves smiling the entire time throughout the dinner. There are tables that offer views of the kitchen so you can see how the magic happens. Additionally, the interiors are outfitted with a red and black geometric design, perfect for the occasion. A special 4-course Valentine’s Day menu with optional wine pairing is available for $275 per person.

Gift Ideas:

Landeau - Landeau has made 25 the new dozen when it comes to giving a "dozen" roses. The delivery will arrive in a Parisian-style hatbox that makes quite the statement. Roses are available in 8 different colors and varieties. The box is also perfect for reusing as storage or a chic addition to a room's decor.

Vosges Chocolates - Haut Chocolate house led by founder Katrina Markoff who, while studying at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, became inspired by Truffle Beignets at Place Des Vosges. This, in addition to her travels throughout Europe, inspired her company here in the States and her Travel the World Through Chocolate collections. She has won numerous awards, and Vosges Chocolates is now best known for its use of exotic ingredients such as spices, flowers, roots, and herbs.

Fragrance: Treat your loved one to a new fragrance. Perhaps is your favorite on them or their favorite. We love Creed Aventus for Men with notes of Bergamot and Blackcurrant Leaves and apple. For her, we pick Kilian Straight to Heaven. This sensual fragrance features base notes of Amber Gris and Cedar. It comes in a lockable display case.

Creed Aventus: Creed

Kilian Straight to Heaven: Saks

Fall In Love with New York at The Arcadia

408 East 79th Street, 17AB - 4 Bed (convertible 5) | 5 bath | $7,395,000

Fall in love with New York City with our beautiful listing at the Arcadia on the Upper East Side. Enjoy the exquisite interior design from Weitzman Halpern set against the backdrop of floor-to-ceiling windows with skyline views throughout.

Views from apartment 17AB

Ready to Fall in Love with New York? Arrange a confidential appointment with us to find your perfect home.

NYC Restaurant Week: Everything You Need to Know

Everything You Need to Know About NYC Restaurant Week

via

If you have ever been to New York City, New York, you know that there is prestigious food at every corner. But for a price. The city that never sleeps is saturated with many people which means high demand, and ultimately, higher prices on food and things to do around the city. No need to worry. The food is incredible. New York City knows this and wants to allow people to be able to get the incredible savory food for a cheaper price. This is where New York City restaurant week comes in. Twice a year, the New York City restaurant week is held to allow people from all over to come and try delicious food for a fair price. However, there are many things to consider when attending the restaurant week.

What qualifies a restaurant

There are just about 400 restaurants that participate in the infamous restaurant week. Not every restaurant is able to participate though. In order to participate, NYC takes a few things into account. The chef’s background, the overall restaurant rating and reviews, and awards or other information. This makes it something that restaurants desire to become a part of. On top of that, the restaurant must offer a discount of 20 to 50 percent off the regular menu price to be picked.

The discounted food is pre-chosen

The menu will be chosen by the restaurant which is known as a prix fixe menu. It must include a three course meal and three choices for appetizers, three choices of entrees, and at least two dessert options. All participating restaurants will price their three-course prix fixe menus at $29 for lunch and $42 for dinner. You should be aware that not all restaurants will offer dinner and lunch at a special price. That’s why one should check ahead of schedule. You could also come across some restaurants with discounts on drinks as well. It is delightful to be able to have a choice of what kind of food you can have. You will also be able to find the NYC restaurant week dining guide in all participating restaurants a week before the event. Just keep in mind that beverages, gratuity, and taxes are not offered in the price.

Times

Restaurant week will take place from January 22, 2018 to February 9, 2018. During this time, you will find all the affordable, awesome meals. Just be sure to reserve your spot because all restaurants will most likely be very packed. Just in case one is looking to walk in, the discounts still apply.  There is a little bit of a catch. The restaurants will not offer the discounts on Saturdays, and Sundays are completely optional.

How to ensure a good time

Restaurant week is packed and hectic. You want to be sure that you could have the best possible experience. Most would start with choosing the kinds of foods they would desire to eat. This will help you get closer to which restaurants to choose. If you already have a specific restaurant in mind, then you should set your sights on it. Once reservations open (January 8th) you should try to book that specific restaurant immediately. Try to keep your options realistic. It might be very stressful to get a restaurant that is very prestigious and just ruin the thought of it all together. When you make your reservation, try to confirm what exactly they will be serving so you have an idea. Most menus are available for viewing online in advance. 

The best restaurants to visit

Most restaurants are going to be very rewarding when you take in their savory flavors, but you might want the challenge of getting to taste the best of the best. There are lists that you can find all throughout the internet of which restaurants should be chosen. Maybe classic New York City restaurants are on your mind and your taste buds, or perhaps those ranked as the best experience, and taste. There are even lists for getting the options that only go for lunch. No matter what you choose, you are going to find some incredible meals.

The Victoria Shtainer Team Picks:

• Tao Downtown
• Lavo
• Bagatelle
• Fig & Olive
• Mr. Chow

Broadway

How about a dinner and a show? Luckily, this year, broadway week is going on during the same time as New York City Restaurant Week. This will create the ultimate dinner and a show date scene. Tickets will be two-for-one to the best Broadway shows you can think of! This combination of 380+ restaurants and 19 Broadway shows will have you and a partner hitting the city almost every day. Try out this guide to see some awesome combinations of food and Broadway shows. It’s all about the experience in the end. 

All-in-all, the Restaurant Week in New York City is an incredible time. You get to enjoy food from all over that most never thought they could afford. So, whether you live in New York City, or live far away, attending the experience of restaurant week should really be considered. Hopefully, you  will have a wonderful time in the city that never sleeps.

Guest blog by Jeremy Alderman

6 New Year's Eve Parties to Ring in 2018

It is hard to believe it is time to say farewell to 2017 and raise a glass to welcome 2018 with open arms. New Year’s Eve parties will take place in cities around the globe, from New York to Tokyo. Everyone rings in the New Year a bit differently, from quiet dinners to champagne parades as clubs and everything in between!

Deciding on New Year’s Eve plans can be stressful, especially if friend groups want to head in different directions. If you are looking for a way to say goodbye to 2017 and hello to 2018 in New York City, we have curated a list of a few happenings around the city. Of course, these are just a drop in the bucket of all the events taking place on New Year’s Eve in NYC.

Top of the Standard with Gloria Gaynor

Singer Gloria Gaynor will be hosting a NYE Bash on the top of The Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District. The glitzy black-tie party will feature DJs all evening as well as a countdown and performance by the Disco legend herself. The venue is sure to offer a backdrop of spectacular skyline views in all directions. Tickets start at $275.

Spa of Sensorium

NYE at a secret spa in Brooklyn? That is an option! Drink, Dance, and even detox at Spa of Sensorium. The Russian Turkish bath house will be transformed into a Sonic Jungle. Party goers can recharge in saunas, steam room, Jacuzzi, and cold plunge pools, and then dance the night away with 2 rooms of music. Tickets start at $125.

The King’s Winter Masquerade

The McKittrick Hotel, of Sleep No More Fame, will be hosting their final masquerade of 2017. The opulent masked soiree will include a large feast, open bar all night, live entertainment, and other curiosities throughout the hotel. Tickets start at $295.

Gatsby Party at Catch Rooftop

Say goodbye to 2017 in Gatsby style at Catch in Meatpacking. The party will be Gatsby themed with 1920’s style cocktail attire and décor. Wear your glitziest and most glamour attire as you enjoy a 2-hour open bar. Tickets start at $125.

Black Tie Gala at The Carlyle

Head to the Upper East Side and ring in 2018 with Steve Tyrell at Café Carlyle. Enjoy a four-course prix fixe menu that will be followed by dancing in the lobby with the Peter Duchin Orchestra. 8pm and 8:30pm seatings are available. $730 per person.

Midnight Run

Partying not your thing? Dancing in Central Park and take a run that event counts as credits towards the NYC Marathon with NYRR. The evening starts at 10pm with dancing, then at midnight hundreds of festive joggers embark on the run while taking in the Central Park fireworks. Participation starts at $45.

6 Things To Do in New York This Winter

Things to Do in New York City this Winter

We know it’s cold outside and there are fewer things nicer than watching New York City streets through your frosted window while you cuddle under a fuzzy blanket and drink hot cider, but New York City in the wintertime is worth venturing out into the cold for.

Chill is in the air, but holiday music can be heard on every street corner and the city is aglow with lights and winter decorations that you won’t soon forget. So, tip your doorman and leave the building. Venture to 1251 Sixth Avenue, near Rockefeller Plaza and look out for the glowing giant red orbs reminiscent of pomegranates, or the gigantic Christmas tree ornament sculpture popping out of a city fountain on 6th avenue. There are endless events and festivities as the new year approaches, and unless you have a friend who can get you into The Metropolitan Club, it can be difficult to choose where you’ll spend your time. That’s why we’ve done all the work for you and put together a list of some of the most exclusive activities and events in and around Manhattan and New York City to keep you in the know this winter.

Window Shop on Saks 5th Avenue

via

One of the best things to do in New York City during the holiday season is wander through Midtown to check out extravagant window displays at stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and more. Every winter, the shops on Saks 5th Avenue compete for the best window display by bringing to life fairy tale panoramas, winter wonderlands, and otherworldly scenes of grandeur and winter cheer. Curbed, a New York Neighborhood guide, curated this user-friendly map of the best holiday window displays in the area, so they’re easier to find than ever.

See the World-Famous Nutcracker Ballet

via

Ah, a night of beautiful dancing, magnificent costume design, and high-end musical composition is in store for you at the NYC Ballet’s rendition of the Nutcracker. Running until December 31, this globally acclaimed ballet will delight and surprise regardless how many times you’ve seen the ballet before. All 90 dancers, 62 musicians, 40 stagehands and more than 125 children, in two alternating casts, from the School of American Ballet join forces to make each performance as magical as possible. Tickets range from $89-290, depending on the seats you choose. We recommend sitting as close to the orchestral pit as possible, to get a glimpse of both the dancers and musicians alike.

Enjoy a festive dinner at Old Homestead Steakhouse

via

The Old Homestead is the perfect place to flock to on a wintery night with friends and loved ones. Located in the heart of the former meatpacking district, this old-world steakhouse was made famous as the first restaurant in the United States to import Japan’s fabled kobe beef for use as the feature in its sumptuous steak dishes. The interior is plush and comforting, perfect after a chilly evening trek through the city.  Menu features include the Oyster Rockefeller Royale topped with a simmering pernod cream, the filet mignon for two with golden Yukon potatoes, aged cheddar spinach, sour cream and Asian vegetables, and the deliciously famous Homestead chopped salad.

Escape for a Weekend at the Windham Mountain Resort

via

The Windham Mountain Resort, a true gem hidden away in the great northern Catskills, is only three hours from New York City and offers everything from skiing and boarding to spa relaxation and delicious dining opportunities. It’s the perfect place to escape for the weekend when you need a break from the droves of winter tourists flocking to New York to see the famous city decorations and the NYE festivities. Packages are varied, so whether you need to play hooky in the middle of the week or want to embark on a weekend getaway, Windham has an option for you to enjoy.

Get Your Groove on at NYC Winter Jazzfest

via

Each January, Winter Jazzfest hosts the genre’s top talent over the span of several evenings. Its signature two-night Greenwich Village marathon brings vets and up-and-comers, hordes of music fans and a palpable air of excitement to an array of cozy downtown venues. The shows aren't individually ticketed, so a wristband grants you access to any of each night's shows—as long as venues don’t fill to capacity. This is a model built for venue-hopping and exploration. If your preferred show is full, pull out the schedule, and head to one of the nearby spots for something unexpected. This event happens after the New Year celebrations, which can be a downtime for happenings around the city. So grab yourself a ticket before they sell out and get your winter groove on to combat the post-NYE blues that can set in.

Drink in a Rooftop Igloo

via

This is one experience you won’t want to miss. 230 Fifth declares itself “New York's largest outdoor Rooftop Garden and fully-enclosed Penthouse Lounge.” One floor is fully enclosed, while the rooftop garden is open to the sky. If it’s raining, the venue will provide umbrellas and keeps it cozy by heating the place on cooler evenings. This venue is a marvelous place to sip cocktails before making your way to one of many New Year’s Eve happenings around the city, if you need a pre-party.

Guest Blog by Jeremy Alderman

How Much Should I Tip? - NYC Holiday Tipping Guide

The holiday season is always a time to give back to those that had a positive impact on our lives over the past year. One question that always comes up, especially in New York City, is how much to tip the building staff and those that are intimately involved in day-to-day life?

Holiday tipping is an opportunity to give back to those that make running our daily lives a bit easier. Thus, it is important to say that it is highly encouraged, but not required. As December rolls around, many begin to get anxiety about who to tip, how much to tip, and if he or she should even tip at all. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. 

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

---

Tipping Guidelines

---

Super: $150-200
Doorman/Concierge: $100-150
Nanny: 1 Week Salary
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Driver: 1 Week Salary
Personal Trainer: $100
Chef: $300-500
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $50-75
Manicurist: $25

Something to Consider: If you have been tipping throughout the year utilizing a "pay as you go" method, it is customary to tip on the lighter side during the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Tradition: Macy's Parade & A Favorite Recipe

Thanksgiving: a time to gather around the table and forget about the gifts while enjoying the company of friends, family, and relatives. Thanksgiving is a time where many come together and reflect upon all the things to be thankful for - family, careers, a home. A common theme weaves its way throughout the Thanksgiving holiday, namely traditions. Traditions are a big part of Thanksgiving from that favorite recipe to all gathering around to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. 

Read below for some of our favorite Thanksgiving traditions including the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and a favorite recipe that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The parade is a city tradition dating back to 1924, making it the second oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country, which attracts more than 3.5 million to the streets and an even larger audience via television. This year marks the 91st parade, and Macy's has set up a special interactive website to browse through the parade over the decades and get a look at this year's lineup. The parade is, perhaps, best known for its large balloon class which has featured many cultural icons over the decades. This year, the lineup is slated to include the likes of the Pillsbury Dougboy, Ice Age's Scrat and his Acorn, and Angry Birds to name a few. The parade route is 2.65 miles long, starting at 77th street and Central Park West.

Route: 77th at Central Park West south to 59th Street.
East on 59th Street to 6th Avenue.
South on 6th Avenue to 34th Street.
West on 34th Street to 7th Avenue.

The admission is free to the Parade. The best place to view it is between 72nd and 61st Street and Central Park West.

The viewing areas along the route gets incredibly crowded. It is recommended that you arrive no later than 6:30am if you plan to scout out a good viewing spot along the route.

Sour Cream and Chive Mashed Potatoes 

via

The perfect compliment to the Thanksgiving turkey? Mashed potatoes. This recipe takes traditional mashed potatoes to a new level with sour cream and chive. They are sure to be a crowd pleaser and will have guests coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes 
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted  
• 1/2 cup half-and-half  
• 1/2 cup sour cream 
• 1/4 cup chopped chives  
• Salt & Pepper to Taste

Bring potatoes to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork tender, about 20 minutes. In a small pot over low heat combine half-and-half and butter. Heat until hot but not simmering. Drain the potatoes in a colander. Wipe the saucepan dry. Add the potatoes back to the saucepan and mash. Give it a quick mix with a hand mixer to incorporate some air and ensure a smooth texture. Fold in the melted butter and half-and-half mixture until just incorporated. Fold in sour cream and 1/4 cup chives and season with salt and pepper.

Of course, it is important to remember what we are grateful for and share that with others. We are so grateful for good health and loyal clients that allow us to do what we love, in one of the best cities in the world!

Happy Thanksgiving!

-The Victoria Shtainer Team

Summer at the Seaport District

via

In the heart of Downtown Manhattan, the Seaport District has been undergoing a large revitalization and transformation. We previously wrote about all the exciting things happening in the Seaport. This summer, however, the heat has been kicked up another notch at the waterside neighborhood with the “Summer at the Seaport” sponsored by Chase Sapphire.

Have you explored any seasonal spots this summer in the city? With many looking to get in a last vacation day or Summer Friday before Labor, the Seaport is the perfect spot to enjoy a summer afternoon or evening downtown. For Summer 2017, the Seaport is serving as a destination for highly curated culinary, music, retail, and cultural experiences.

There may only be a few weeks of summer left, but there is still a lot happening at the Seaport District to checkout.

Not convinced? Check out this wonderful video from our friends at South Street Seaport:

The Garden Bar

Perhaps the main focal point of the Summer at the Seaport installation is the Garden Bar sponsored by Chase Sapphire with special VIP access for card members. The bar is situated in the middle of the iconic cobblestone streets of the neighborhood, stretching 78 feet long and draped with greenery and palms. The setting feels like a garden oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The Garden Bar will be serving up selection of rare beers, rosé, and cocktails.

Additionally, The Garden Bar is located directly adjacent to a lush stage where live performances have been happening all summer long. Outdoor drink + live music…what is better? The lineup for the rest of the summer is as follows:

Thursday August 10th at 6pm: Breanna Barbara

Saturday August 12th at 6pm: Gedeon Luke and the People

Thursday August 17 at 6pm: Southern Avenue

Saturday August 19 at 6pm: Behold the Brave

Thursday August 24th at 6pm: Annie Hart

Saturday August 26th at 6pm: Showtime Goma

Thursday August 31st at 6pm: Calvin Love

Thursday September 7th at 6pm: The Alpaca Gnomes

The Chase Sapphire Lounge is reserved exclusively for Chase Sapphire members and offers a special menu of beverages and food.

Food Lab

Speaking of Chase Sapphire, members will also be able to get exclusive access to tickets at the Food Lab which has been hosting some of the most renowned chefs all season long. Each cehf will take up a 2-week residency at the Seaport, offering guests a taste of their signature culinary dishes. With guest chef’s coming in through early fall, you are sure to catch a unique experience before the summer ends.

Alon Shaya is currently in the Seaport until August 12 with Jessica Koslow, of Sqirl fame in Los Angeles, arriving on August 20th.  A partnership with Sixpoint Brewery has allowed each guest chef to create a custom beer for their time in residency. The remaining schedule for The Food Lab is as follows:

Jessica Koslow – August 20th – September 2nd

Dale Talde – September 20 – 23rd

Wylie Dufresne – September 29th – October 11th

Other Attractions

The Seaport is home to other attractions to enjoy a summer day or evening. Check out these popular spots to grab a cold drink or a good bite:

• Clinton Hall: The popular pub has opened a location right on the heart of the Seaport. Clinton Hall is known for its 20 rotating draft beers alongside 20 burgers. There are also table games
• Front Row Food Trucks: Various food trucks are rotating into front street, parking in a Smorgasburg-style street food display.
• Mr Cannon: There is not much description provided on this new Speakeasy, aside from its inspiration. The address is not published on the website, but rumor has it it is located at 206 Front Street.

6 Rooftop Bars to Visit this Summer

Outdoor space is highly coveted in the city, especially during the warmer weather months when long days lead to beautiful sunsets over the skyline. We look for outdoor space in apartments, and we also desire it when deciding where to go for a cocktail.

Below is a list of 6 of the best rooftops to hangout in New York City and enjoy a cocktail (or 2) and skyline views from different vantage points. Perched in the sky, you might even catch a breeze to cool you down. Don’t take our word for it, and check out these place:

The Roof

via

Situated atop the Viceroy Hotel, The Roof offers a sophisticated space to escape Midtown to enjoy a cocktail and view. The space faces North, offering views of the classic Central Park South skyline as well as the park itself. The interior of the lounge is reminiscent of an old luxury airliner with a menu offering up craft beers, global wines, and classic and modern cocktails that rotate to utilize the freshest ingredients.

The Viceroy Hotel 124 W 57th Street

The Roof at Park South

via

Take in views of the Chrysler and Empire State buildings while sipping on quality cocktails at the roof of the Park South Hotel. The space not only offers good views and good drinks, but also good DJs. The menu breaks down cocktails into categories such as “Effervescent and Easy Drinking” and “Fancy”. The space is outfitted with copper siding, orange canopies, and a fireplace.

The Park South Hotel 125 E 27th Street

1 Hotel DUMBO

via

Looking for views of the skyline from a different perspective? DUMBO offers the perfect vantage point and the chic 1 Hotel offers the perfect spot from which to gaze. Grab a cocktail or glass of wine and take in sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline from the rooftop.

60 Furman Street

Salon De Ning

via

Head to the Peninsula Hotel on 5th Avenue and make your way to the roof for a sophisticated setting to enjoy a drink while looking over the iconic stores of 5th Avenue. Salon De Ning was recently renovated in 2016 and features Hampton-esque aesthetics. The two outdoor spaces are complimented by an interior bar. The space operates on a first come first served basis.

700 5th Avenue

The Press Lounge

via

Tucked away in Hell Kitchen on Manhattan’s West Side is the Kimpton Ink 48 Hotel which is home to The Press Lounge. The Press Lounge is a fan favorite for rooftop bars in the city, offering up a swanky space and panoramic views of both the Manhattan skyline and Hudson River.

653 11th Avenue

PHD Terrace Midtown

via

Check out the newly expanded terrace of the Midtown outpost of PHD, the popular rooftop of the Dream Downtown in Meatpacking. PHD Terrace, at the Dream Midtown, allows guests to enjoy a different perspective than its sister, namely views of Midtown and Times Square. Word on the street is they serve a 164 oz. Moscow Mule!

210 W 55th Street

Your Memorial Day Weekend Guide

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us, and we are going to be kicking off the unofficial start to the summer season. Whether you stay in the city or spend your summers out east, The Victoria Shtainer Team has curated a list of a few of our favorite happenings in NYC and the Hamptons. From art festivals to the must-try new restaurants in The Hamptons, this list will keep you busy during the long weekend.  

While we cannot wait to kick off the summer season, we also must take a moment to pause and remember the meaning of the Memorial Day Holiday. We would like to thank all of those that serve in the US Armed Forces and continue to protect our country every day. Salute our troops and celebrate the start to summer!

 

New York

 Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit:

The bi-annual art fair is returning to the streets of Greenwich village. Browse artwork on display by original artists from New York, the nation, and globally. The fair includes paintings, sculpture, and eco-friendly art and unique pieces that are available for purchase at substantially less than gallery prices.

The exhibit is free admission and will be running May 27-39 as well as June 3-4, 12pm-6pm. University Place beginning at East 13th down the east side of Washington Square Park to West 3rd Street.

 Brooklyn’s King County Memorial Day Parade:

via

There are quite a few different Memorial Day parades throughout the city, however, the Kings County Memorial Day Parade in Bay Ridge is the most iconic. 2017 marks the 150th year of the parade. Following the ceremony there will be a 21-gun salute by the U.S. Army at Fort Hamilton. The NYPD and FDNY participate in the march, and antique fire trucks and autos are on display. 

The parade kicks off at 11am on Monday, May 30th at 78th St and Third Avenue in Bay Ridge. Take the R train to 77th St Bay Ridge Avenue or 86th St.

Arlo Hotel Weekend BBQ:

A post shared by Arlo Hotels (@arlohotels) on Mar 1, 2017 at 2:06pm PST

A great option if you are staying in the city for the weekend. Head to Arlo SoHo for one of the best open bar BBQ parties around town. The rooftop event will have traditional MDW fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and tacos complimented by panoramic city views. A DJ and entertainment will round out the event.

Saturday May 27th, 2-5pm. Tickets purchased in advance for $65. 231 Hudson Street

 Lower East Side Festival of the Arts:

 The Lower East Side is known to be a culturally diverse and vibrant neighborhood of the city, making it a great setting to celebrate performing art. Over 100 performers from poets, puppeteers, and filmmakers will take over the Theater for the New City for the long weekend. Saturday’s event also features a streetfair with food and art vendors.

Free Admission. May 26-28 with Saturday’s festivities held outdoos

 Rooftop Cocktails at 1 Hotel:

via

Enjoy the long weekend with a relaxing cocktail while taking in wonderful views of the Manhattan skyline. The chic 1 Hotel at Brooklyn Bridge rooftop offers a great vantage point to view the city. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, a plunge pool, or fire pits on a chilly evening.

60 Furman Street, Brooklyn

The Hamptons

 Montauk Show on the Green:

The 9th Annual Memorial Day Weekend on the Montauk Green is coming to Montauk Village Green. Artisans from throughout New York and the country will be showcasing original creations including paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography, and ceramics. Admission to the show is free and it will be running Friday 12-6pm and Saturday and Sunday 10-6pm.

Free Admission. 742 Montauk Highway, Montauk

Wolffer Estate Vineyards:

The annual summer events return to the Sagaponack vineyard starting the Friday of Memorial Day weekend.  You will not want to miss summer 2017's first installment of Sunset Fridays and Saturdays at the wine stand with music by Clinton Curtis Friday evening and Mamalee Rose Saturday evening. Enjoy wine by the glass or bottle as well as cheese and charcuterie plates. 

Yoga in the vines will be returning to Wolffer beginning Thursday, May 25th. Some of the Hamptons' best yoga instructors will be conducting classes right in the vineyard. Drop in classes are $25 with packages available for purchase as well.

139 Sagg Road, Sagaponack

Le Bilboquet Sag Harbor:

The popular French eatery on East 60th Street in Manhattan is heading out East. The restaurant, of which Ronald Perelman is a partner, is taking over a prime spot on the docks in Sag Harbor. If the crowd at the Manhattan location is any indication, we expect this is going to be a popular spot! The restaurant is slated to have a crudo bar and feature its signature Cajun chicken dish.

1 Long Wharf, Sag Harbor

Eleven Madison Park Summer House:

The former Moby’s space in East Hampton will be transformed into the renowned 11 Madison Park pop-up for the summer. The restaurant is closing its Manhattan location for the summer to renovate and moving operations out East.

The opening has been the talk of the town as the 3-star Michelin restaurant is making reservations exclusively for American Express cardmembers. The East Hampton location is expected to be more casual than its city counterpart and feature an a la carte menu, indoor dining room, tented area, and picnic tables and games in the backyard. Note: the tent and backyard will be on walk-in basis only.

341 Pantigo Road, East Hampton

Calissa:

via

A taste of Mykonos is coming to Water Mill starting Memorial Day weekend. The team of Il Cantinori in partnership with executive chef Dominic Rice (formerly at Narcissa and Jean-George) will be leading Calissa. Rice will be using Long Island seafood to serve up dishes salt-baked striped bass and lobster bucatini.

1020 Montauk Highway, Water Mill

Guide to Mother's Day in New York City

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 14th. Whether you plan to spend the day with Mom, or you plan to send a gift because she is not in town, we have you covered with ideas for ways to make Mom feel special. From Brunch to spas, check out our guide to Mother's Day in New York City. 

Aire Ancient Baths

via

Situated in Tribeca among the neighborhood furniture stores, restaurants, and warehouses is the first American outpost of Aire Ancient Baths. The luxurious water spa has been widely popular since opening its doors on Franklin street as a destination to relax and detox.

Aire started in Seville, Spain in 2004 in a 16th century palace that had original Roman baths beneath it. The first location was followed by ones in Barcelona and Almeria.

The spa, located below ground in a cavern only lit by candles, combines soaking traditions from the Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Arab empires. Guests move between 4 pools ranging from 102 degrees to 46 degrees. There is also salt water as well as a jet tub. The space is done completely in stone imported from the South of Spain and only accommodates 20 people at a time.

Prices start at $75 for 2 hours of lounging- Aire Ancient Baths

New York Botanical Garden Garden Party

via

Enjoy the beautiful spring blooms at the weekend-long garden party at the New York Botanical Garden. Stroll through the newly opened Lilac collection and enjoy live music and dancers on the garden’s main stage. There are a bunch activities planned throughout the whole day, making it a great family event. Activities include putting on the green, croquet, and guided walking tours throughout the gardens. Brunch, by reservation, will be served picnic-style.

Brunch at While We Were Young

A post shared by While we were Young (@whilewewereyoungnyc) on Apr 15, 2017 at 5:00pm PDT

 This new West Village restaurant and bar has been called the “ultimate ladies’ night out” spot because of its beautiful interior. The space is a bit more girly than your typical West Village restaurant, so it will be perfect for mom.

From the bar covered in petals to the rose colored banquet and chevron marble floor, the setting is sure to be beautiful for a Mother’s Day brunch. The cocktail creations are equally as beautiful, and we are confident the Kale Margarita will make for a great Instagram picture!

The space is quite small, and does not take reservations so we recommend getting there early! Looking for more Brunch recommendations? Don't forget to check out our list of The Best Places for Your Weekend Brunch.

Oysters and Champagne at Grand Banks

A post shared by GRAND BANKS (@grandbanksnyc) on May 6, 2017 at 5:02am PDT

 On Pier 25, situated on the historic schooner, Sherman Zwicker, Grand Banks offers a setting that feels as if you are transported away from the city. The setting gives guests panoramic views of the Hudson River, New York Skyline, and Freedom Tower in Lower Manhattan.

The floating vessel is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of champagne and a dozen (or two!) of oysters while taking in the New York skyline and the Hudson River. Additional menu items such a freshly crafted cocktails and lobsters. Grand Banks will also serve brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am- 2pm with menu items including French toast and Avocado toast and poached eggs.

If you can't spend the day with Mom, consider these gift ideas that she is sure to love!

Gifts:

Flowers: Beautiful flowers are always a great-go to gift to remind Mom you lover her. Favorites include peonies, orchids, and Lilacs. Check out Blanchet Flowers in Chelsea. .They are known for their orchids, including rare varieties. They incorporate them into all of their bouquets! Ordering is available online.

Fragrance: Gift Mom her favorite fragrance this Mother's Day. While scent preference varies, a favorite among many is Chanel No. 5. Available at Bergdorf Goodman

Salon: Treat Mom to an appointment at the salon so she can relax and look her best. We recommend a gift certificate to The Dry Bar. She will love getting a blowout while sipping champagne before a night out!

Massage: Another great gift selection is a massage so Mom can have some "me" time. Consider using Zeel, an on-demand massage service that will come directly to her home! Booking are available through their app.