The newest addition to the Oasis Day Spa family, Oasis Westchester, has already made its name known by winning the “Best of Westchester” award for the county.  With the same quality services and  outstanding hospitality that are staples of Oasis Day Spas, it is no surprise why Oasis Westchester in Dobbs Ferry has won such an esteemed laurel.  However, what really sets this spa apart is not necessarily in, but on top of the space.  Perched above the city, overlooking lush green hills, the spa’s exclusive rooftop garden offers a relaxing seclusion under the sun and amidst the sounds of nature.

Bruce Baltz, the Director of Massage Therapy, has often been credited as one of the creators of the art of stone massage, and his proprietary, ever-evolving therapies give the Oasis Day Spas another distinct advantage.  Bruce emphasizes that his massages are designed to allow the body to communicate with itself, in order to make the massage most effective (this is especially true during stretching modalities where clients are required to have active participation).  Specifically with the stone massages, such as the indulgent Lava Stone Massage, hot and cool, oiled basalt and marble stones are used to modulate the body’s internal temperature, in order to more effectively deep massage into tissue for utmost relaxation.

As if the stone massages weren’t enticing in and of themselves, a plethora of other services tantalize.  For a luxurious trifecta, opt for a classic Swedish Massage, which includes fluid strokes of varying depth and pressure to reduce stress and improve body circulation.  Next, rehydrate with one of Oasis’ relaxing hydrotherapy services, such as the Lavender Salt Scrubs, which leaves your body feeling moisturized and silky smooth.  Finally, finish with a Signature Facial that will let you walk out the door fresh faced and radiant.

Article written by: Anjali Menon

Oasis on Park
1 Park Avenue
New York, NY
(212) 254.7722

Affinia Dumont Hotel
150 East 34th Street
New York, NY
(212) 254.7722

Oasis Westchester
50 Livingstone Avenue
Dobbs Ferry, NY
(914) 409.1900
www.oasisdayspanyc.com

The Pierre, Taj’s iconic U.S. flagship hotel, sits on New York’s Fifth Avenue overlooking Central Park. The hotel re-opened in 2009 following a meticulous $100 million renovation to create new guestrooms and bath interiors and reconfigure first floor public areas to accommodate a new restaurant, Le Caprice, as well as Two E Bar/Lounge.

First opened in 1930, The Pierre still maintains its classic ambiance and original grandeur. Its illustrious history is still playing out in its 189 guestrooms, including 49 suites, 10 of which are the hotel’s premier Grand Suites. The Pierre’s superlative banquet spaces, including the Ballroom and Cotillion room, were also renovated.

The Pierre’s guestrooms and suites have been transformed to feature a warm, inviting residential-style décor with a feeling of quiet refinement. Color palettes comprised of soft neutrals are accented with burgundy and rose, light blues, greens, corals or gold and silver. Richly textured silk and brocade fabrics adorn upholstery, pillows, draperies and bed throws. Hand-carved carpets feature intricate patterns and offer superb acoustical sound control.

Each room also enjoys state of the art technology including 40-inch flat screen televisions, Bose Wave Studio with iPod docking stations, WiFi, and working desk with built-in data and power outlets. Access to all guestrooms has been upgraded to a new state-of-the-art electronic key system.

A significant portion of the renovation focused on updating all guest bathrooms. New Turkish marble-clad guest bathrooms feature a glass-walled shower with oversized showerhead and steam-free makeup, shaving and wall mirrors. A majority of the baths have been enlarged to also incorporate a separate soaking tub and a flat panel television.

Two new dining and nightlife outlets have opened within the hotel. Le Caprice, a London’s coveted classic captivates New Yorkers with its signature European dishes modified for the American palette. Martin Brudniski’s art deco design appeases the most discerning guests with its contemporary black and white décor, David Bailey photographs and long sleek bar. The restaurant sits among Richard Caring’s exclusive dining establishments including The Ivy, Annabel’s, Daphne’s, and Wentworth Golf Club.

The New York Times acclaimed Two E Bar/Lounge, named for its location at 2 East 61st Street, is a dynamic space that serves hotel guests and neighborhood patrons alike. The Alexandra Champalimaud designed space features a striking art deco copper bar as its centerpiece which artfully balances the old world detailing on the classic columns and ceiling. The lounge, which offers light fare, a coffee bar and an elaborate afternoon tea in a residential-style sitting area by day, transforms into a stylish bar that serves up modern cocktails, a relaxed intimate atmosphere and unforgettable dance parties by night.

The Pierre, 2 East 61st Street, New York, New York 10021; (212) 838-8000;www.tajhotels.com/pierre

The Daniel experience is mesmerizing and addictive. The moment you walk into this exquisite space, you are transported into a luxurious European inspired paradise that captures the essence of the fine dining experience. A masterpiece of Chef Daniel Boulud and designer Adam Tihany, Daniel sets the stage for lavish dining.

The crowd is elite, the most cultural and intellectual of Manhattan. Daniel caters to the connoisseur. It’s the attention to detail that creates an environment for the gourmet to indulge in. Of course, in the spirit of elegance, a jacket is the preferred attire.  Awe-inspiring interiors resemble a Viennese palace with contemporary influence. Perfectly symmetrical Greek style pillars and arches contour the priceless porcelain chandeliers instilling a sense of grandeur felt at the holy classic temples. A tiered flower arrangement creates a sumptuous ambiance that builds an appetite for the ensuing banquet.

Though the main dining room plays no music, the environment is bustling and filled with revolving energy. The best place to sit is in the mirrored corner on the second tier. The perspective offers a view of elegant columns surrounding the space and set aside magnificent arches. Paintings from the renowned Mandy Valdez hang behind the pillars in couture fashion.

interior photography by David Christopher Lee

The dinner is a “Three Course Prix Fixe” and includes the best of Daniel has to offer. The dishes are elegantly composed to complement each other in succession, as they are brought out one after another in a timely manner. The staff awaits with an acute sense. Any subtle hints from the guests in their desire for the next dish and their wish is granted. Daniel’s wine selection is superb, a splash of which cleanses the palette to savor the next dish to come.

The Maine Peekytoe crab is most delectable with a rich meaty texture. Served with anise hyssop spring roll, pickled papaya and champagne mango, all an impressive masterpiece with overlapping tonalities. Chef Boulud is known for combining ingredients that yearn for one another in perfect matrimony.

Duo of hamachi prepared “En Tartare”, it comes with romaine lettuce, wasabi tandoori spiced with pickled onions and sesame tuile. A light dish with a bite from the wasabi and pickled onions that embeds into the hamachi creating a mouth watering appetizer beging of the duo of dry aged black Angus beef to come.

Sweet and succulent the aged Angus beef is a work of culinary art. The red wine braised short rib, carrot gratin seared rib eye with pommes Dauphine and shallot confit are in perfect harmony with the rest of the platter. The carrots melt in your mouth with every bite and mix with the short rib in a whirlpool of flavor.

Top the evening off with a tainori chocolate dacquoise with rice crispy lemon curd dark chocolate ice cream. A mix of rich, sweet chocolate and a lemon zest is simply delightful. It will leave you with a tantalizing reminder of an amazing meal and an awe-inspiring experience.

www.danielnyc.com
60 E 65th St
New York, NY 10065
(212) 288-0033

article by: Yaroslav Kofman

Interior photography: David C Lee

Executive Chef is Roberto Deiaco prepares the Bavette sul Pesce.

Italian designer Giorgio Armani is bringing a unique dining experience to Manhattan with Armani / Ristorante 5th Avenue (717 Fifth Avenue at 56th Street, 212.207.1902). The restaurant will be located on the top floor of his first U.S. concept store, Armani / 5th Avenue. Lorenzo Viani, of Ristorante Lorenzo in the seaside town of Forte dei Marmi in northern Tuscany, and his team have crafted a menu that translates the distinctive Armani philosophy into authentically Italian cuisine, blending both innovation and tradition.

With an emphasis on fresh flavors and balance, Armani / Ristorante 5th Avenue offers both á la carte and vegetarian, fish and meat tasting menus. Viani, known in Italy for his inspired seafood preparations, brings that passion to such dishes as Penne con Calamaretti e Granchio (Penne Pasta Prepared in a Light Fresh Tomato Sauce with Baby Calamaretti and King Crab) and Branzino Selvaggio al Forno con Patate e Coriandoli di Verdure (Oven-Baked Wild Sea Bass with Potatoes and Vegetable Confetti).

Inventive vegetarian offerings include an antipasti of Tortino di Melanzane Grigliate Bufala, All’olio di Basilico su Coulis di Pomodoro (“Thousand layers” of Grilled Eggplant and Buffalo Mozzarella, served with Tomato Reduction Sauce) and Ravioli alle Due Ricotte con Salsa di Zucchine e Tartufo di Stagione (Ravioli with Two Ricotta Cheeses, Zucchini Sauce and Seasonal Truffle). Among Viani’s meat offerings are Lombetto di Agnello Farcito di Olive Taggiasche e Riduzione al Vermentino (Loin of Lamb Stuffed with Taggiasche Olives and Vermentino Wine Reduction Sauce) and housemade Pappardelle al Ragout di Salsiccia e Pecorino (Fresh Housemade Flat Pasta in Sausage and Pecorino Cheese Ragout).

An extensive dolci menu features such highlights as Semifreddo di Pistacchi Sorbetto alle Clementine e Caprese di Cioccolato (Pistachio Semifreddo, Clementine Sorbet and Chocolate Caprese) and Sfoglia Napoleon con Crema Doppia e Frutta di Bosco in Composta (Napoleon Puff Pastry with Pastry Cream and Berry Compote). Armani / Ristorante 5th Avenue also offers an extensive collection of Italian, French, and American wines as well as a full cocktail menu. A Thursday night aperitivo, focusing on a different region of Italy each week, features complimentary bites at the bar starting at 6:30 p.m.

Giorgio Armani collaborated with the architects Doriana and Massimiliano Fuksas to design the 5,200-square-foot restaurant and bar, which offers a stunning view overlooking Fifth Avenue. The multi-level store was conceived as a single, fluid space brought together by a central staircase. The restaurant’s beige walls, black floors and ceilings, and metal throughout combine to provide a glossy feel that evokes movement. Special attention has also been paid to the lighting which appears invisible and creates a theatrical mood. The hidden lighting emphasizes the use of curves, a consistent feature found throughout the restaurant and store.

Armani /Ristorante 5th Avenue is open for lunch and dinner daily until 11 p.m. Monday-Saturday and until 5 p.m. on Sunday, with lunch service beginning at 11:30 a.m. With a menu evocative of Mr. Armani’s simple yet elegant aesthetic and a location in the heart of one of the world’s premier shopping districts, Armani / Ristorante 5th Avenue will offer guests authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming and relaxed setting.

Armani Ristorante / 5th Ave
717 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10022-8101
(212) 207-1902

Ivanka Trump launched her fine jewelry collection in September 2007 with the opening of a jewel-box boutique on Madison Avenue in New York City. Partnering with Dynamic Diamond Corp., one of the most respected diamond companies in the world, Ivanka combines her innate understanding of modern luxury with a vision of heirloom-chic jewelry inspired by the best classic styles of all times. Access to breathtaking diamonds and an unwavering commitment to superior quality of craftsmanship further distinguish the elegantly youthful and stylish collections. Ivanka’s seal of approval, her personal signature and a trademarked coral enamel accent mark each piece that bears her name. The creative core of the jewelry collection remains to “Rock Tradition” — putting a modern twist on the most desirable jewelry classics from the 20’s to the 60’s.

The collection has shaken up the luxury world by taking a fresh approach to design and positioning. The unique design has resulted in a “refined yet unpretentiously chic” jewelry collection that “pays homage to the past while embracing the future” -– remaining true to its motto, “Rock Tradition.” The heir-loom chic collection has achieved a niche positioning with Ivanka’s heritage and power to influence a new generation of consumers: younger female consumers who admire and identify with Ivanka’s ideals, as well as stylish women of all ages who appreciate the intelligent, thoughtful and distinguished approach of the brand. The jewelry collection has achieved resounding success and editorial accolades from the top fashion titles, such as, The New York Times, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Town & Country and Oprah, among other prestigious media outlets.

Widely perceived as “classy”, “diverse”, “timeless” and “thoroughly appealing to the today’s women”, Trump’s jewels have, in a short time, secured their place in New York’s jewelry scene as well as Hollywood with style icons such as Demi Moore, Lindsay Price, Ginnifer Goodwin, Brooke Shields, Ziyi Zhang, and Blake Lively among others gracing the red carpet in Trump’s unique creations. The collection will be launched globally in the fall of 2010 through select US and International retailers. “After great success in New York I am excited to launch my collection globally. I am confident in my design of heirloom chic jewelry and believe the world’s top capitals will continue to carry my vision into their markets”, states Ivanka.

The new 2010 jewelry collection reinforces the brand’s earlier focus on the heirloom-chic style that is Ivanka’s own. Approximately 65 new styles will complement the existing assortment of approximately 100 pieces in platinum, 18K white, yellow and rose gold, featuring diamonds, onyx, black spinel, agate, pearls and rock crystals. New materials such as black diamond beads, rough diamonds, shagreen, leather, velvet and carved onyx will now add excitement and accessibility to Ivanka’s signature look. Among the new pieces are more than 20 new styles with retail prices ranging from $550 to $2,500. Equal emphasis was given to strengthening the offerings between $3,000 and $8,000, addressing the price points most commonly associated with the shopping preferences of the independent, self-purchasing woman of today.

The creative core of the jewelry collection remains to “Rock Tradition” — putting a modern twist on the most desirable jewelry classics from the 20’s to the 60’s. The collection has shaken up the luxury world by taking a fresh approach to design and positioning. The unique design has resulted in a “refined yet unpretentiously chic” jewelry collection that “pays homage to the past while embracing the future” -– remaining true to its motto, “Rock Tradition.” The heir-loom chic collection has achieved a niche positioning with Ivanka’s heritage and power to influence a new generation of consumers: younger female consumers who admire and identify with Ivanka’s ideals, as well as stylish women of all ages who appreciate the intelligent, thoughtful and distinguished approach of the brand.

The jewelry collection has achieved resounding success and editorial accolades from the top fashion titles, such as, The New York Times, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Town & Country and Oprah, among other prestigious media outlets. Widely perceived as “classy”, “diverse”, “timeless” and “thoroughly appealing to the today’s women”, Trump’s jewels have, in a short time, secured their place in New York’s jewelry scene as well as Hollywood with style icons such as Demi Moore, Lindsay Price, Ginnifer Goodwin, Brooke Shields, Ziyi Zhang, and Blake Lively among others gracing the red carpet in Trump’s unique creations. The collection will be launched globally in the fall of 2010 through select US and International retailers. “After great success in New York I am excited to launch my collection globally. I am confident in my design of heirloom chic jewelry and believe the world’s top capitals will continue to carry my vision into their markets”, states Ivanka.

The new 2010 jewelry collection reinforces the brand’s earlier focus on the heirloom-chic style that is Ivanka’s own. Approximately 65 new styles will complement the existing assortment of approximately 100 pieces in platinum, 18K white, yellow and rose gold, featuring diamonds, onyx, black spinel, agate, pearls and rock crystals. New materials such as black diamond beads, rough diamonds, shagreen, leather, velvet and carved onyx will now add excitement and accessibility to Ivanka’s signature look. Among the new pieces are more than 20 new styles with retail prices ranging from $550 to $2,500. Equal emphasis was given to strengthening the offerings between $3,000 and $8,000, addressing the price points most commonly associated with the shopping preferences of the independent, self-purchasing woman of today.

Click here for more

685 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10065-8042
(212) 756-9912

Where does the Baccarat crystal’s luster come from? The air blown into the glass, the fire, telluric elements and love! Nothing has changed, or very little, since the creation of the house of Baccarat: endowed with an immemorial savoir-faire, the highly skilled glassblowers give birth to a crystal that the artists, creators and designers metamorphose so brilliantly. They are the magicians of light and the instigators of the most beautiful play on artifice.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Although Baccarat crystal is synonymous with eternity it is reborn every time the collection has been put into the hands of the most modern designers. Audacious or humorous and eternally desirable shapes that are subtle variations of the company’s iconic pieces or esthetic symbols: this voyage from the past to the present illustrates Baccarat’s ambition to write in sparkling letters a lifestyle for today and tomorrow without compromising its heritage.

Endowed with glassworks, still located on the original site in Lorraine, its archives and precious historical heritage, the most prestigious crystal glasswork factory in the world is a fabulous source of inspiration to its collaborators and all the aesthetes in search of something exceptional.

Baccarat
625 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10022-1814
(212) 826-4100

AvroKO is behind the design, concept and branding of PUBLIC. The team was awarded two James Beard Awards for PUBLIC in 2004, for “Best Restaurant Design” and “Best Graphics.”

Double Crown & Madam Geneva, conceived by the AvroKO Hospitality Group and Executive Chef Brad Farmerie, creators of NoLIta’s PUBLIC & The Monday Room, explore the aesthetic and culinary dualities arising from the British Empire’s forays into Southeast Asia.

The menu highlights the two-way street of culinary influence between Britannia and the East with dishes including a rich Singapore laksa soup, miso-glazed bone marrow, duck steamed buns and more.

Madam Geneva features gin concoctions flavored with homemade jams and preserves.

Double Crown was awarded two stars (excellent) from the New York Times and received ‘Best Return of Fusion’ award by Time Out.

Executive Chef Brad Farmerie

Brad Farmerie grew up in Pittsburgh in a food-loving family. His mother, an avid home cook, exposed him to a variety of cuisines and insisted on home baked bread and vegetables straight from the family garden.

Farmerie enrolled at Penn State, intent on completing a degree in mechanical engineering. Two years into his studies it became apparent that the cooking he did to pay his tuition was the real source of his collegiate contentment. Thus he took a year-long hiatus from studying the principles of physics to exploring first-hand the cuisines and wines of Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and the Antipodes.

One year turned to seven, and Farmerie’s culinary wanderings turned serious when he settled in the UK in 1996, earning a “Grande Diplome” at Le Cordon Bleu.  He further rounded out his education and technique at acclaimed restaurants such as Coast, Marco Pierre White’s Chez Nico and Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons. Most influential to his own style was his experience working with Peter Gordon at the Sugar Club in 1996, then assisting Gordon and Anna Hansen in the opening of the critically-acclaimed The Providores and Tapa Room.

In 2003 Farmerie moved back to the States to head up the kitchen of the AvroKO-designed PUBLIC.  There, his creative, global approach was described by the New York Times as one that “swings for the fences with each and every dish” and Michelin awarded the restaurant a coveted star in the 2009 Red Guide.  2006 saw the opening of The Monday Room, a 20-seat wine bar inside of PUBLIC which Farmerie turned into a laboratory for his most creative dishes yet, designed expressly to pair with the Monday Room’s eclectic and adventurous wine selections.In the fall of 2008, Farmerie extended his culinary reach as executive chef of AvroKO’s long-awaited two-in-one project, Double Crown and Madam Geneva, which takes as its inspiration the unique cuisine that emerged when the British colonized the countries of South Asia and the Far East.

To read more visit Double Crown

The richly wooden ceilings of the restaurant are adorned with memorabilia donated by legendary patrons of the restaurant such as Groucho Marx, Katherine Hepburn, Frank Sinatra, and Sammy Davis Jr. and Joe DiMaggio. Football helmets, baseballs, replicas of classic cars all add to the character of the space. The bar even has a legacy trapdoor from the Prohibition era, which allows all the bottles of alcohol to drain at the push of a lever. A plethora of other similar quirky facts add to the historical charm of this restaurant, the oldest in NYC to be named for its address.

The food, however, is perhaps the biggest draw of ’21′ Club. Every dish was delicious; full of flavor and texture. Be sure to start off with the tomato and eggplant soup that is warm, hearty, and has small pieces of chicken and vegetables that add some texture to the creamy soup. Next, move on to the well-portioned entrees. Although the crispy seared organic chicken combined with smooth chive whipped potatoes was succulent, and nearby diners commented on the excellent dry aged sirloin with bordelaise sauce, the highlight of the night was the horseradish-crusted salmon.

The most moist, tender, flavorful salmon you will ever eat, this fillet was perfectly crisped on top with a mild horseradish crust that added a delightful crunch to each bite. This buttery, juicy fish is definitely reason enough to visit ’21′ Club! As the perfect end to your dinner, finish the night indulging in one of ’21′s many dessert treats. Opt for the dark chocolate mousse cake with chestnut ganache for a dark, dense chocolate cake paired with molten nutty ganache. Or, if you’re looking for a more fruity option, the elegantly simple pear tart was sweet and delectable.

With its culinary excellence and upscale saloon feel, it is no wonder why ’21′ Club has drawn in such a loyal and eminent crowd.

Article by: Anjali Menon

21 West 52nd Street
New York City, NY 10019
(212) 582-7200

Morgans is the hotel that changed all the rules. From the moment it opened its doors on Madison Ave, it startled the world with a convention-shattering attitude and distinctive design sensibility.  This grand experiment in style was first concocted by legendary designer Andree Putman when she unveiled a new vision for the Morgans.  Her powerful reinterpretation of the first boutique hotel propels Morgans’ style and spirit forward without changing its unique character.

Destination Luxury gives you a peak into the exclusive 2-story penthouse that features a garden terrace, spectacular New York City Views and a chic design that exudes the New York City lifestyle.

Morgan’s Hotel

237 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016
(212) 686-0300

It is no surprise that the elite of Manhattan flock to the Julien Farel Salon. Located in midtown on Madison , the salon attracts a chic clientele. Think Prada, Hermes, Valentino–Farel’s style is classic with a twist of fashion.

Farel designed the salon to revolve around feng shui, an ancient Chinese system of aesthetics believed to use the laws of both Heaven (astronomy) and Earth (geography) to help one improve life by receiving positive qi. Clients come to the salon for more than just services but for the energy that permeates throughout the space.

The Julien Farel salon is such a destination that clients will fly halfway across the world in their private jets just for a haircut. It’s all about consistency, customer service and making the customer feel beautiful and comfortable. Farel’s technique is very special–he cuts with such precision that after 2 and a half months, I still didn’t need a haircut. My hair grew out evenly with texture and form even though usually, I would need to get a haircut every 6 weeks.

David Christopher Lee & Julien Farel

He works like an architect to create masterpiece haircuts that are timeless, combining geometry with fashion and style. It is no surprise that the most stylish celebrities are regular clients of the salon–fashion icon Kate Moss, Audrey Tatou, and Ivanka Trump have been spotted here. Farel says that he believes luxury is something where somebody does everything for you and all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the experience. There is no waiting and no detail left unattended. Whatever you need, it is taken care of. His philosophy is to do everything with your heart.

“The new generation wants the money first, but life is not about money. It’s about doing something for the experience and making the client want to come back,” says Farel. He plans to keep building the brand and expand into luxury hotels. Recently, he launched a location in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and plans to develop salons in five other countries.

“The world belongs to the people–whatever you touch, be the best,” says Farel. With his precision and meticulous detail Farel has a style that is clean, simple and chic. He doesn’t try to compete, but strives to create a product that is so outstanding that clients come to him. “If you are not interesting, don’t bother. If you work with your heart, it shows. If you do something for the money, it shows too. There is way too much competition.”

605 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10022-1638
(212) 888-8988

Click here to visit Julien Farel’s Website

Article by David Christopher Lee