HOLIDAY 2023 | WHERE TO EAT ON CHRISTMAS + NYE

We don’t know how we’re already in the holiday season, but here we are as we all begin to think about the Ball Drop, wherever you’ll be celebrating this year! These last few weeks are filled with a lot of activity and our gift to you is highlighting some great options that you can enjoy. Make sure that you check back as we will continue to add restaurants of note here in NYC as well as outside of it that are perfect for your Christmas Day, New Years Eve and even New Years Day plans! If you want to know more, make sure that you visit each restaurant either online or via their IG to see about their availability.

PHOTO CREDIT | Hortus NYC

HORTUS

For those who may be looking to dine in the NoMad where there’s so much do to this holiday season, as well as for those who enjoy Asian cuisine, Hortus NYC is the ideal dining destination for Christmas and New Year’s Eve plans. We covered Athleisure Mag back in our OCT ISSUE #94.

Diners can choose menu options a la carte or from Hortus NYC’s Christmas and New Year's Eve prix-fixe menu, served for both lunch and dinner.

The celebratory prix-fixe menu highlights the HORTUS Royal Platter, consisting of chilled lobster tail, tuna tataki, and shrimp cocktail, as well as the Truffle Ribeye-Cap with black bean puree, portobello mushroom, and pickled red cabbage.

Diners also have the option to choose one appetizer, including fan-favorite King Crab Noodle, fettuccine with mala cream sauce, shallot, and scallion, along with one entrée, like Truffle Donabe with wild mushrooms, cured egg yolk, and black truffle or the Korean BBQ Feast featuring prime center ribeye, smoked duck, broiled lobster tail with house-made ssamjang and special sides.

A special Christmas and New Year’s Eve dessert will be served, with the option to have an accompanied wine pairing.

The prix-fixe menu will be served on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, as well as New Year’s Eve. Hortus NYC will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., and dinner from 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Hortus NYC

271 5th Ave Store

New York, NY 10016

IG @hortusnyc

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PHOTO CREDIT | Sagaponack

SAGAPONACK

For seafood lovers, Sagaponack, situated in the fashionable Flatiron District is a standout dining destination this New Year’s Eve. We had the pleasure of interviewing them in our feature, The Art of the Snack in our OCT ISSUE #94.

Sagaponack will serve a prix-fixe 4-course curated tasting menu by Executive Chef Phil Choy, coined the Salt Bake Special.

The first of 4 courses will be a Fluke Tartare topped with coconut, Marcona almonds, and tobiko, drizzled tableside with a sauce crafted from cucumber, cilantro oil, chili oil, and lime, followed by a Coconut Squash Soup with ginger coconut cream, pumpkin seeds, and aleppo pepper, a gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan option. 

The main course will be a Salt Baked Black Bass, wrapped in banana leaf and marinated in lemongrass, Thai chili, shallot, garlic, ginger, and lime zest. Accompanying the bass will be a Thai Red Coconut Curry, made from baby bokchoy, roasted cauliflower, and fingerling potatoes, as well as Crab Fried Rice with lump crab, ginger garlic shallot confit, chili jam, and crispy garlic. 

Dessert, to start the New Year’s off sweet, a Thai Milk Cake with cinnamon, pecan, and mango.

The curated New Year’s Eve menu will be served from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

SAGAPONACK

4 W 22nd St

New York, NY 10010

IG @sagavibes

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PHOTO CREDIT | Dressed East Coast Oysters at Blu on the Hudson

BLU ON THE HUDSON

For those who may not be familiar with NY, many times, it’s fun to head out to New Jersey where you have epic views of the Manhattan skyline while having an upscale meal at a high-end restaurant! Within 5 minutes, you can take the ferry and have an amazing evening. Blu on the Hudson is a chicly designed, 30,000-square-foot, modern American restaurant with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline in Weehawken, New Jersey and a picturesque six-minute NY Waterway ferry ride from Manhattan. The restaurant offers a bold seafood-centric menu accented by a top-flight steak program, homemade pasta, a one-of-a-kind cocktail program, and a soon-to-come rooftop event space.

Christmas Eve

• A La Carte Dinner Menu All-Day

• Some brunch items will be offered between 1-3 p.m. 

• Feast of the Seven Fishes: Four Course Dinner for Two: $150 per person (Pre-Reserved Only)

  • Availed starting at 4:45 p.m.

• Hours of operation: 1-9:45 p.m.

New Year’s EvE

• Highlights include food stations, a live DJ, sparklers, stand-out Instagrammable cocktails, good vibes, and a champagne toast with screening as the ball drops at midnight. 

• Tickets will be offered in two tiers, which are as follows:

  Tables

  • $500/ticket

    Includes: three-course dinner, open bar, food stations and more 

  • Available for 2-8 people  

  • Entry Time: 8 p.m.

    GA

  • $300/ticket 

  • Includes: open bar and passed hors d’oeuvres

  • Does not guarantee seating; high-tops will be available on first come first serve basis

  • Entry Time: 9:30 p.m.

GA tickets are sold via Eventbrite and OpenTable, Table tickets are sold via OpenTable.

BLU ON THE HUDSON

1200 Harbor Blvd

Weehawken, NJ 07086

IG @bluonthehudson

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PHOTO CREDIT | Pernil Pork Shank at Son Cubano

SON CUBANO

Son Cubano, a modern Cuban cuisine in West New York, New Jersey is adjacent to the BLU ON THE HUDSON. It has the most breathtaking, unobstructed, pristine views of the Manhattan skyline that spans from the Upper West Side to the Liberty Tower. The restaurant emits a vibrant ambiance with authentic Cuban dishes and a fusion of Latin flavors with dazzling cocktails and live entertainment. 

Christmas Eve

• A La Carte Dinner Menu All-Day 

• Hours of Operation: 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. 

Christmas Day 

• Brunch: A La Carte Menu 

• Hours of Operation: 12-3 p.m. 

• Dinner: A La Carte Menu 

• 4-8:45 p.m.

New Year’s Eve 

• Early Dinner: A La Carte Menu 

  • 4-6 p.m. 

  • Late Dinner and Party: 3-course Prix Fixe Menu 

  • Highlights include a live DJ, entertainment, specialty cocktails and VIP Bottle Service.  

  • 9 p.m.-closing 

  • No Dining Limit 

    • $150 Havana Room

    • $200 Vista

    • $250 Vista VIP

• NYE Party Tickets (Bar Only)

  • 10:30 p.m.

  • Tickets $75, Early Bird $50 

New Year’s Day

• Brunch: A La Carte Menu 

  • Hours of Operation: 12-3 p.m. Dinner: A La Carte Menu 

• Dinner A La Carte Menu

  • 4-8:45 p.m. 

    SON CUBANO

    40-4 Riverwalk Pl

    West New York, NJ 07093

    IG @soncubanonj

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VENTANAS

VENTANAS is a Modern American, Latin, and Asian fusion restaurant and lounge in Fort Lee, New Jersey, minutes away from the George Washington Bridge. The restaurant offers a prolific menu of land and sea options, as well as an award-winning wine list and cocktail program, accompanied by live entertainment and a bustling nightlife scene. 

Christmas Eve

• Dinner: A La Carte Menu

• Hours of Operation: 1:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Christmas Day

• Brunch: A La Carte Menu

  • Hours of Operation: 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

• Dinner: A La Carte Menu                       

  • Hours of Operation: 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

New Year’s Eve

• Brunch: A La Carte Menu

  • Hours of Operation: 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

• Dinner: 4-course Prix-Fixe Menu

  • Served: 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

    • Early Seating: 4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

      • $95 Prix-Fixe Menu

        Second Seating: 9 p.m. – 10:15 p.m. 

    • Second Seating: 9pm - 10:15pm

      • $195 Prix-Fixe Menu, including a champagne toast and entry to the masquerade ball

    • Final Seating: 10:30 p.m. – Close

      • $225 Prix-Fixe Menu, including a champagne toast and bottle service, as well as entry to the masquerade ball

• Masquerade Ball

  • Hours of Operation: 10 p.m. – Late

    • Highlights include a Live DJ, Party Entertainment, VIP Bottle Service, and Live Performances

      • NYE Party Tickets (Masquerade Ball only)

        • $50 Early Bird until 12/10

        • $75 from 12/10 – 12/31

New Year’s Day

• Dinner: A La Carte Menu

  • Hours of Operation: 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

VENTANAS

200 Park Ave

Fort Lee, NJ 07024

IG @ventanasatthemodern

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PHOTO COURTESY | Halifax Hoboken @ W Hotels Hoboken

Halifax Hoboken @ W Hotels Hoboken

We covered Halifax Hoboken at the W Hotel in Hoboken earlier this year in our feature Athleisure List in the AUG ISSUE #92. Yet another eatery that had epic views of NYC while being located in Hoboken, NJ. Their New Year’s Eve will be a culinary feast - with a seven piece band for the late sitting! Halifax Hoboken’s New Year’s Eve celebrations and menus showcase an array of delectable dishes crafted by Chef Seadon Shouse and Pastry Chef Joshua Coleman for 2 seatings.

For those who want to make it a getaway, consider a stay at the W Hotel. The second seating is $254 all-inclusive (tax and tip) and features a 7-piece live band by GROOVE. You can reserve your spot here.

New Year’s Eve Details:

• What: New Year’s Eve

• Where: Halifax Hoboken

• When: December 31st, 2023

• Cost: first seating a la cart. Second seating $254 pp 

• Includes: 4 hours premium bar, raw bar, hors d’ouvres, charcuterie & cheese, carving station, caviar, seven-piece live band by GROOVE

• Time: 

  • First seating: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm - A La Carte

    • Choice of starters: clam chowder, poached pear salad, fritto misto, maine mussells, lamb meatballs, black sea bass tartar. Main course: squash agnolotti, saffron rigatoni, pan seared salmon, NJ Sea Scallops, Smoked Amish Chicken, Prime New York Strip, or Bone in Beef Shortribs. Choice of dessert.

  • Event starts at 9:30 PM - 1:30 am - Prixe Fix $254 pp all inclusive (tax and tip)

    • Stations 9:30-11:30: Charcuterie & Cheese (housemade and artisinal), NJ Clams, Maine Mussels on the Half Shell, Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Crab Claws.

    • Passed Hors D'ouvres 9:30-11: Tuna tartar panu puri, Caviar potato chips, Foie Gras Terrine, Risotto Balls.

    • Stations 10-11:30: 

    • Carving station: with in-house dry-aged striploin with demi glace, butter roasted maine lobster tails, salmon roulade with shellfish mousse & lobster cream, truffle mash potato, fresh dinner rolls, squash salad.

    • Pasta station: Seafood risotto with scallops, shrimp, crab, clams, tomato, fresh orechiette pasta bolognese.

    • Slider & Flatbread: Halifax beef slider, crispy chicken slider, truffle mushroom fontina flatbread, squash and duck confit flatbread.

    • Dessert 10-12 am: Assorted mini desserts.

HALIFAX HOBOKEN @ W HOTEL HOboken

225 River St

Hoboken, NJ 07030

IG @halifax_hoboken

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PHOTO CREDIT | Cochinita Pibil at Casa Bond

CASA BOND

This Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, lovers of Mexican cuisine can enjoy refined Mexican fare at Casa Bond, a new, hot dining destination on the Bowery.

On Christmas Eve, Casa Bond will be open from 5 pm to 10 pm. 

On New Year’s Eve, Casa Bond will have a DJ, party favors, and a Champagne toast at midnight. Casa Bond will offer their regular a-la-carte menu from 5 pm to 8 pm, then transition to two formal seatings for the prix fixe menu, offering seatings at 8 pm and 10 pm. The party will continue into the night after the midnight toast, and Casa Bond will close at 2 am.

CASA BOND

334 Bowery

New York, NY 10012

IG @casabondnoho

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PHOTO CREDIT |Beets at Restaurant Yuu

RESTAURANT YUU

Restaurant Yuu, who was recently awarded one-Michelin Star, is the only new Brooklyn restaurant to receive a star. For Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve, Chef Yuu will showcase tasting menu, about 15 courses, which highlights a Wagyu Fillet Wellington with a layer of minced Wagyu with mushrooms, a layer of foie gras and a later of Wagyu filet, all wrapped in spinach and baked in a pie crust, served with Sauce Périgueux, a sauce made with red and port wine. We shared more about them in our feature Athleisure List in the JUN ISSUE #90.

Optional wine and tea pairings to the tasting menu are also available.

Executive Chef/Owner Yuu Shimano is a creative powerhouse and consistently showcases seasonal produce and proteins at the height of their seasonality, presented artistically with inventive French and Japanese flavor combinations through the lens of his vast fine dining experience. 

In addition to its regular offerings, courses from the tasting menu include, but are not limited to are: 

• Consomme 

• King crab with celeriac and citrus 

• Uni 

• Langoustine

• Abalone 

• Filets de Poisson en Écailles Croustillantes (Fish Filets with Potato Skin) using amadai fish

• Abalone risotto 

• Strawberry dessert

Seating times are at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. with 18 guests each. Reservations are available on Tock. 

Restaurant Yuu is also offering stollen (“Christmas specialties like fruitcake and panettone”) which is available until Christmas Day. 

RESTAURANT YUU

55 Nassau Ave

Brooklyn, NY 11222

IG @restaurant_yuunyc

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PHOTO CREDIT | Silver Cod Steaks at Chef Guo

CHEF GUO

Offering a regal dining experience this holiday, Chef Guo, takes diners on a cultural culinary journey. Chef Guo inflects his expertise on traditional Chinese dishes modernizing them and creating a healthier, more nutritious version, using organic and daily sourced ingredients. 

Situated discreetly in the Randolph House luxury residences, diners are greeted by a server dressed in a traditional red robe and are transported to an intimate dining room that resembles an imperial courtyard.

The dining room accommodates just 10 for each seating, and the servers take their time to carefully explain each dish, its ingredients, and the story behind its invention, creating the atmosphere of a private dinner party.

The menu offers an exceptional 19-course Imperial Chinese Tasting Menu that features innovative dishes crafted for each seating. 

Chef Guo has reservations for its 19-course Imperial Chinese Tasting Menu available, with exclusive seatings at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Years Day. 

You can book your reservations here and see their full menu here. 

CHEF GUO

135 E 50th St

New York, NY 10022

IG @chefguorestaurant

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PHOTO CREDIT | Kintsugi

KINTSUGI OMAKASE

Kintsugi Omakase, an understated, fashionable sushi atelier that is tucked away in Soho, will be offering a one-of-a-kind Normandin-Mercier Christmas Cognac, which dates back to 1876, for the holidays. Edouard Normandin reserves one barrel for this special Christmas Cognac and produces 250 bottles each year. For more information on this very exclusive cognac, please visit the website here. The cognac will be served at $28 per glass. 

For Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, Kintsugi Omakase, small jewel box sushi counter, will be serving two tiers of omakase: 

• Kintsugi Experience: 20-courses for $195

• Soho Experience: 17-courses for $155

The tasting also includes a sushi chef’s choice of handroll, gourmet miso soup, tamago and a seasonal dessert. Executive Chef Victor Chen (formerly of New York Sushi Ko) creates imaginative starters with exciting flavor combinations and uses locally sourced fish, enabling for a broader selection.

Another holiday special being offered is a Winter Beverage pairing for $85 per person that features a five-glass paring of new sake and wine, which will rotate weekly. 

Seating times are at 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

KINTSUGI OMAKASE

28 Grand St

New York, NY 10013

IG @kintsuginyc

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PHOTO CREDIT | Tsubame

TSUBAME

Tsubame, the Tribeca-based Kaiseki-inspired omakase from Michelin-recognized Executive Chef Jay Zheng, will be open to ring in the New Year. 

Far from your typical omakase experience, Chef Zheng creates masterfully plated Japanese dishes derived from ultra-seasonal ingredients and fish sourced from Japan. Central to Chef Zheng's preparation is the rich culinary concept of Shun, the use of ingredients at their peak seasonal freshness, allowing each dish to be both the best-tasting and most visually appealing.

In a succession of 8 courses, Sakizuke – the amuse bouche – launches the meal. Chef Zheng’s Shiroebi Uni Shokupan is a big opener, housemade milk bread layered raw baby shrimp from Toyama and vivid uni from Hokkaido, garnished with shiso flowers. Luxuriously creative, it sets a tone for the meal that follows. 

Another highlight of the Chef’s curated menu is the Futamono (lidded dish) an A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Shabu Shabu with udon made of pressed sawara (Spanish mackerel), in awase dashi, a tribute to the Chef’s family fish noodle. It is accompanied by a jidori egg in sweet shoyu (soy sauce) for dipping.

Tsubame is open on New Year’s Eve with two seatings at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.

TSUBAME

11 Park Pl

New York, NY 10007

IG @tsubameny

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PHOTO CREDIT | Bohemien Bar

BOHEMIEN BAR

As the festive month of December is in full swing, Bohemien Bar, the chic cocktail bar in Brooklyn Heights, is employing a “12 Days of Christmas” themed happy hour from 5-7 p.m., Sundays through Thursdays throughout the entire month of December. The happy hour will feature their Holiday Cocktails, as well as their Cheese and Vegetable offerings especially priced at $12, to commemorate the popular “12 Days of Christmas” holiday song.

Bohemien Bar, outfitted with cheerful holiday décor for the season, has a lineup of winter-themed cocktails, including, but not limited to:

• O Sanctissima intricately blends Tequila, spiced cider, vanilla, lemon juice, and dehydrated carrots, served in a cute snowman mug.

• Dulce Besos, served in a fun gingerbread man mug, is a hot-chocolate-based drink with mezcal, Madeira, cayenne powder, and toasted marshmallow.

•  New Order presented in a festive Christmas tree, mixes gin, apple brandy, quince, ginger, lime, and juniper smoke.

The Cheese selection highlights the Baked Brie with herbs de Provence, while Beet Dip with Labneh and Walnuts and Crispy Zucchini with smoked paprika aioli showcase the Vegetable section.

Bohemien Bar’s “12 Days of Christmas Happy Hour” is a get-away for all weary shoppers and those seeking to relax after a day of taking out-of-town friends and family holiday sightseeing.

BOHEMIEN BAR

97 Atlantic Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11201

IG @bohemienbar

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PHOTO CREDIT | Li-Lac Chocolates

LI-LAC CHOCOLATES

New York’s iconic Li-Lac Chocolates, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary and has been enjoyed by generations of locals, tourists and celebrities including Martha Stewart, Andy Cohen and Emma Stone among others. Manhattan’s oldest chocolate house, Li-Lac, has remained true to its tradition maintaining the same single-minded focus on product quality. Its confections are handmade daily in its Brooklyn Factory using many of the original techniques and equipment from 1923. 

With the holiday season quickly approaching, Li-Lac Chocolates makes for the perfect gift idea. They have a broad selection of specialty molds and gifts, now offering more than 120 items making it one of the largest selections of gourmet chocolates in the world. 

A few gift options, but are not limited to, include: 

• Christmas: Spectacular Christmas Basket: assortment of 12 gifts

• Limited-Edition Vintage Recipe Gift Box: 1/2 lb. each of four original recipes created by our founder in 1923 (A special box created for its centennial celebration)

• Chanukah: Treasure Chest Filled with Gelt: approx. 20 pieces of Gelt 

• New Years: Giant Champagne Bottle: 32’’ tall and weighs approx. 11 lbs

For those looking for an impressive business gift or a present for your special someone, Li-Lac allows you to create and customize your own chocolate mold here. To view a variety of gift boxes and baskets for any occasion, click here.

Store locations: Industry City/Brooklyn, Greenwich Village, Bleecker Street, Chelsea Market, Hudson Yards and Grand Central Market.

Ships: via FedEx in the United States and Canada. 

Read the latest issue of Athleisure Mag.

JOURNEY OF FLAVORS | HORTUS NYC

We truly enjoyed catching up with new and old friends while we covered the Food Network's Wine Food Festival! What do you do after being able to enjoy some of the most amazing bites? You check out a fantastic restaurant that has been on your list for awhile to continue to enjoy the positive vibes that a great meal can provide!

We found ourselves at Hortus NYC here in NYC where we knew that we wanted to try their amazing Tasting Menu as well as cocktails that include one of our favorites, soju! The laid back ambiance and cool tones was a great way to decompress after some hectic days. We wanted to find out more about what we eat and the restaurant itself. We took some time to chat with Suhum Jang, Managing Partner of Hortus to find out more.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Before we delve into Hortus NYC, tell us about when the restaurant opened as well as a bit about the ambiance in terms of the design aesthetic!

HORTUS NYC: Hortus NYC opened in 2018. The name Hortus NYC, Latin for garden, reflects the emphasis on freshness, and the theme of the garden runs through the interior. The restaurant is divided into four distinct areas, the first floor is dedicated to bar dining with an open kitchen and a Chef’s Table. The second floor contains an adjoining glass-enclosed hidden garden oasis complete with lights hanging above for a warm and intimate glow in the evening as well as the main dining room, which offers exquisite views of the illuminated stained-glass windows at the Marble Collegiate Church across the street.

AM: Tell us about who the chef of Hortus NYC and what is his culinary background?

HN: Chef Geo Park initially served as the opening sous chef at Hortus NYC in 2018 and moved on to work in the kitchen at Michelin-starred Jua. He returned to Hortus NYC in the spring of 2023 and is using the techniques he has learned from his other posts to add his own touches to the menu at Hortus NYC.

AM: You received a Michelin plate in 2020 and the menu is an interesting blend of cuisines that come together beautifully, what can you tell us about the countries that you draw from in the menu?

HN: We have blended the cuisines of many Southeast Asian countries, including China, Thailand, and Korea, to design a unique menu that combines the flavors in unexpected ways, expressed through out European techniques. This is part of our mission to reinvent how we approach modern Asian cuisine.

AM: We had the pleasure of enjoying the Tasting Menu - can you tell us more about this?

HN: The Hortus Tasting Menu allows guests to curate their own experience and is not a set tasting menu. It begins with The Hortus Royal Platter, which includes chilled lobster tail, hamachi crudo, and a shrimp cocktail, with an option to add a dozen oysters, paired with gochujang and a lightly sweet, tart plum mignonette. It is followed by a choice of an appetizer, main course, and dessert from our dinner menu, which allows diners to curate their own tasting menu and enjoy various dishes from our a la carte menu.

AM: Are diners able to pick menu items a la carte?

HN: Yes in addition to offering the Hortus Tasting Menu and Prix Fixe options, diners can order dishes a la carte.

AM: That's great! We definitely love the Tasting Menu and found that we added a few items as well. What are 3 appetizers that you suggest that the table can share?

HN: Three appetizers I would recommend, that are also great for sharing are: the Hamachi Crudo in a yuzu kosho sauce with cucumbers, pickled pepper, and orange segment; Crispy Rice, topped with spicy tuna, quinoa, and sriracha truffles; and King Crab Noodle, fettuccini in mala and cream sauce with shallots and scallions, which is a house favorite.

AM: Tell us about your 3 favorite mains that you suggest that we should try upon our next visit for dinner?

HN: A few favorites from our dinner menu are: Sea Urchin Donabe, a clay pot filled with rice infused with nori puree, topped with, ikura roe, a cured egg yolk, sea urchin, and freshly shaved truffle; our Cod, which has a gochujang crust and is served over lobster risotto accompanied by charred Spring onion; and the Truffle Donabe, probably our most famous dish composed of wild mushrooms, cured egg yolk, black truffle, and an option to add short rib, served over rice in a clay pot.

AM: You have 3 desserts on the menu - we enjoyed the Yuzu Panna Cotta as well as the Matcha Tiramisu! Can you tell us about all 3 desserts?

HN: All of our desserts blend Asian flavors with traditional European desserts. For instance, the Matcha Tiramisu uses matcha in place of espresso and cocoa; Our Panna Cotta uses Yuzu, an Asian citrus fruit, to add a new flavor profile to the classic dish; and Mango Bread Pudding, which was inspired by the classic bread putting, using more exotic ingredients to add a twist.

AM: The cocktail menu had a number of options that included soju and sake. What are 3 drinks that you suggest that we should enjoy for our next visit?

HN: I would suggest: the Pear Affair, made with Hummy Seltzer, pear, and soju; and Piña, jinro, lychee puree, and Lunar Seltzer; for dinner. For brunch-goers, I would suggest our Yuza Aperol Spritz, consisting of Prosecco, Aperol, yuza, and orange.

AM: For those that are looking for wine, beer, soju, or sake what are 3 bevbeer, soju, or sake what are 3 beverages that we can enjoy by the glass to enhance our meal?

HN: Our wines by the glass rotate seasonally and currently feature: Chardonnay, Louis Moreau 1er Cru from Chablis, France and Pinot Noir, Morgan, from Santa Lucia Highlands, California.

For beer, I would also recommend a current Hortus seasonal pick, the Rydeen Pilsner from Japan. It is slowly fermented in low temperatures, making it easy to drink, with an emphasis on aroma and a clean finish. The rich malt flavor, refreshing bitterness and aroma of hops expand gently in the mouth.

AM: For those coming in for lunch, can you walk us through the menu?

HN: Our lunch specials are offered for both take-out and delivery, as well as dine-in, and included: Spicy Pork, pork belly marinated in a spicy Korean-style sauce; Miso Cod; and grilled Short Rib in a Korean galbi sauce. Each lunch special is served as a set with seasonal Ceviche, a Nokdu-Stick, Fried Calamari, a side of Rice, and Seasonal Vegetables.

AM: We're always excited for brunch. Tell us about this as it seems like there is a focus on sharing plates.

HN: The brunch menu is designed for parties to share five plates, that includes three appetizers for the table and a choice of two entrées. The experience is priced at $30 per person and the team at Hortus NYC will adjust the portion sizes to ensure each guest is well fed.

The appetizers are: Mochi Pancake, with Kimchi jam, buttercream, maple syrup Yuzu, with an option to add Maple Yuzu Bacon for an additional $3; Burrata & Beet, marinated in a tomato vinaigrette, served with a tomato medley and basil; and Fruit Salad, cucumbers and fruit medley in yogurt, finished with chili oil.

Entrée choices include: Poached Egg (Korean Style) served with house-made hash browns and a seasonal mixed salad dressed with rice vinegar soy sauce; Prime Meat Ball Sandwich filled with galbi marinaded beef meatballs, pickled mushroom, and red onion with an option for to add Truffle $10; and Yuzu Bacon Rose Pasta, rigatoni in a rose cream sauce with yuzu bacon.

AM: We're in the fall and eventually will be focused on the holiday season, will there be additional dishes added to the menu that are seasonal in nature?

HN: New for the season is our just-launched Bar Menu, that is available at our 10-seat bar, facing our open kitchen. It adds a new dimension to our restaurant by providing diners with the choice to enjoy small bites paired with our low-ABV soju and sake based cocktails as well as our wines by the glass. The bar menu includes: Steak and Shishito Pepper, with house-made lemon soy and crispy garlic chips; Fried Calamari and Nokdu Sticks, with mung beans, kimchi, and house soy sauce; Chicken Sausage and Cheese with pickled mustard seed and green and red aioli; and Korea-Galbi Chicken Wings.

AM: Will you have any events during the holiday season that you would like to share with us?

HN: Each year we offer Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining specials, and host a New Year Eve Party complete with a complimentary glass of Champagne for a toast.

IG @hortusnyc

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Hortus NYC

Read the OCT ISSUE #94 of Athleisure Mag and see JOURNEY OF FLAVORS | Hortus NYC in mag.

FOOD NETWORK NEW YORK CITY WINE FOOD FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY CAPITAL ONE

The Food Network New York City Wine and Food Festival presented by Capital One takes place starting today on Oct 12th - Oct 15th! During these days, there will be a number of signature events, Walk Around Tastings, Intimate Dinners, Demo & Dine, Master Classes, Cocktail Parties, and more! Events will include some of your favorite chefs and Food Network Stars such as Michael Voltaggio, Marcus Samuelsson, Duff Goldman, Eric Adjepong, and Brooke Williamson, who we have included in previous issues of Athleisure Mag!

You'll also find a number of our favorite restaurants and chefs that are involved this year from Rosa Mexicano, The Standard Grill, Buddakan, STK Steakhouse, Pig Beach, Shake Shack, Archer & Goat, 5 Napkin Burger, Little Owl, Serendipity3, Boulud Sud, Fig & Olive, and Lamia's Fish Market to name a few!

Be on the lookout to meet your favorite chef, to taste a dish that will be next level or to be at an event such as Bacardi presents JJ Johnson's The Cookout: Hip Hop 50th Anniversary Celebration featuring DJ CASSIDY, Rev Run, Ice-T, DJ Mick, Tamron Hall, and Angela Yee. We also have our eye out on Brunch at the Blue Box Cafe hosted by Daniel Boulud and Martha Stewart which is at the iconic Tiffany & Co. store on 5th Avenue. There are also a number of intimate dinners with some of your favorite chefs that are presented by Air France. As there are a number of events taking place over these 4 days, make sure to go to the website to see if tickets are still available as some events are sold out.

As you know, Athleisure Mag always enjoys sharing our favorites in food through our indepth articles, our monthly feature The Art of the Snack, Athleisure List, and our podcast Athleisure Kitchen. We're looking forward to this year's festival and in the OCT ISSUE #94, we'll tell you about the events we attended as well as interviews with those that we have covered previously and those that have yet to be included in our issues. Make sure you follow @AthleisureMag across social handles so that you can also see what we're tasting, watching, and attending during that weekend!

To get ready for this year's event, here are some of our favorite moments from last year's festival. Without a doubt, this is definitely a series of events that are not to be missed whether it's enjoying dishes and restaurants that have always been on our list or those that are new to you! Grab your culinary bestie and be prepared for numerous satisfying bites!

IG @nycwff

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Food Network New York Wine Food Festival

Read the SEP ISSUE #93 of Athleisure Mag and see FOOD NETWORK NEW YORK CITY WINE FOOD FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY CAPITAL ONE in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | LORELEY BEER GARDEN

We love a beer garden which originated in Bavaria and is an outdoor space with large picnic and communal tables where you can soak up the sun and enjoy cold beer and food. Loreley Beer Garden is in the LES and has a seasonal rotational floral installation and opened in 2003. It's open year-round and is heated in the winter and is a great place to hang out with friends in the summer.

Although you can enjoy an array of beers, Loreley also focuses on having a high quality food and beverage program. All their German imported beers have hundreds of years of tradition and perfection in their craft. They hand select every beer and only rotate 3 drafts each season. They sample over 30 new beers before selecting one draft line for one season. When it runs out, it's done for the season. They also work with local breweries on a series of collaborations of seasonal beers to fit their program.

This spring they will launch their first collaboration with Brooklyn's KCBC and brew their own Kölsch Style Ale which will be available here and at KCBC Brewer in Bushwick on draft and in cans. Also keep your eyes peeled at your local bodega in NYC. You can also enjoy Radeberger Pilsner which is available year around as well. Another beer to try is Köstritzer Schwarzbier, a dark lager - with a hint of chocolate.

In addition to beer, that have a high quality wine list and an array of seasonally rotating craft cocktails. We suggest the Nitro Cold Brew, Bourbon Sweet Tea, Frosé and if there is a chill in the air, the Bourbon Hot Chocolate is always a must-have!

In addition to German-inspired foods that features doughy soft-baked pretzels and authentic German sausages, there are other dishes on the menu. You can enjoy tacos, guacamole made fresh to order, a 1/2 lb burger with roasted tomatoes, sauteed onions, gouda on a pretzel bun, plus seasonal salads, cedar grilled salmon, portobello sandwiches and Beyond burgers. Their Brunch menu is something special with fresh Baked Cinnamon Rolls

to order, Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes with fresh strawberries and whipped

cream, Eggs Benedict on homemade potato pancakes, Schnitzel & Eggs, to name a few.

As we make plans to hang out with our friends, coworkers and family, they have a few events that we can keep an eye out for. Loreley Beer Garden will host the Spring Beer & Cocktail Festival with a spring floral installation, seasonal beers and spring cocktails. In May and June, they will host the NYC Summer Rosé Festival which features Rosé everything! This will include 10 hand-selected rosé wines by the glass and bottle, rosé on draft, rosé cider, rosé cocktails, and most importantly, their famous Frosé!

LORELEY BEER GARDEN

7 Rivington St

NY, NY 10002

loreleynyc.com

IG @loreleynyc

PHOTOS COURTESY | Loreley Beer Garden

Read the MAR ISSUE #75 of Athleisure Mag and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Loreley Beer Garden in mag.

ATHLEISURE LIST | MAD MORTON

Mad Morton opened in October 2021 with a focus on celebrating NYC's "madness". Focusing on weekend brunch and dinner, this vibrant space allows for special moments to be shared as a place to unite and gather. Designed for sharing food, drinks, and stories between friends and lovers, this restaurant is meant for memorable weekend brunches and nights out on the town.

As a hotspot destination, visitors and patrons alike are drawn in by the ambiance. In the heart of West Village, Mad Morton is a chic venue featuring bright, glowing shades of pink neon lighting, exposed brick archways, and an elegant horseshoe bar.

We suggest when coming for dinner, 3 appetizers are a must-have: the Mad Morton Salad with arugula, candied walnuts, dried cranberries, goat cheese, lemon vinaigrette, and granny smith apple as a delicious gluten-free option! Our other favorites are the Calamari with homemade marinara sauce, chipotle aioli, and pickled red long chillies or their Shishito Peppers with cured egg yolk, lemon, and sea salt (vegetarian and gluten-free!).

For dinner, Mad Morton’s menu includes a variety of options. Personal dinner favorites are the Atlantic Salmon with romesco, almonds, and seasonal sautéed vegetables (healthy gluten-free option!), the Mad Morton Burger, and Coconut Plantain!

For brunch, enjoy their signature Avocado Toast with sweet cherry tomatoes on grilled sourdough. Top this dish off with a poached egg for perfection. For something sweet and savory, go for their Chicken and Waffles with buttermilk crispy chicken, Belgian waffle, and maple syrup. We also highly recommend their Steak & Eggs with a side of crispy home fries.

3 cocktails to enjoy are: Respect The Grind with Fernet Branca, cold brew, simple syrup, Branca Menta, whipped cream, garnished with half a donut, Bullet with Butterfly Wings with Grey Goose, Butterfly Pea Flower, honey, vanilla, and egg white, and finally their spicy and fruity Morton Street Heat with Milagro Reposado, amaro, strawberry-cucumber shrub, lime, pineapple-habanero hot sauce!

Mad Morton's new Brunch Deal is $25.00/1.5 hours with the purchase of an entree! There is also a Drag Brunch on Sundays: 1.5 hours of drinking + an entree for a special deal of only $49.99 (includes Froze, Mimosas, Rum Punch, Sangria & Bloody Mary’s).

For New Year’s Eve, you can ring in the new year with dinner, a champagne toast, music & party favors!

MAD MORTON

47 7th Ave S

NY, NY 10014

madmortonnyc.com

IG @madmortonnyc

PHOTO CREDITS | Mad Morton

Read the DEC ISSUE #72 of Athleisure Mag and see Athleisure List | Mad Morton in mag.

HIGHER ART & GOOD EATS WITH RON SILVER

We head to the studio office of Ron SIlver's restaurant, Bubby's in the Meat Packing District. Bubby's also located in Tribeca as well as 6 outposts in Japan and is known for its comfort foods. We found out about how he created one of the quintessential destinations for brunch with his passion for great food and keeping it simple. We also talked about how his interests and passions in CBD and THC that led him to create Azuca which compliments food as well as the love for creating art which you can see in his restaurants as well as his show in Mexico City.

ATHLEISURE MAG: So what was the moment that you realized that you wanted to be a chef?

RON SILVER: I would say that there were multiple moments where I realized that I wanted to be a chef. One of the things is that when I was a little kid, I realized that I loved to cook and part of that was because it was mischief – it was fire and knives. So, I take to mischief very well and then I would say another small thing was that my mother took my $5/a week allowance from me and I went to get a job washing dishes. That was $80/a week so that was another realization that was my spot. I washed dishes for a long time.

AM: So when did you wash dishes?

RS: When I was 13.

AM: Ok!

RS: And I washed dishes until I was 21 in and out.

AM: That was a long time to wash dishes.

RS: I liked washing dishes – I did other things in between. I was washing dishes in Alta Ski Resort and I wiped out and broke my rib, I was out for 6 weeks. So I decided during that time that I would be a chef. So I think that was when I really decided to go for it when I was 21.

AM: So what were all the places that you went to in terms of culinary school or restaurants that you worked for prior to coming up with Bubby’s?

RS: I worked for some hotels for awhile and then I moved to Atlanta because I lived in Salt Lake and there wasn’t any real good dining there. I moved to Atlanta and worked for some of the best restaurants in Atlanta and I was offered a scholarship to the Culinary Institute but I did a quick cocktail mathematics and realized that I couldn’t afford that scholarship and didn’t go to school. I moved to NY when I was 24/25 and just worked my way up and I opened Bubby’s when I was 28.

AM: What made you realize that you wanted to open this up and to create this kind of cuisine here?

RS: Well the style of cuisine in the 80s was really weird, nouvelle cuisine with small plates and small portions and I wanted a place that really had good home cooking and large portions on small plates. I really just wanted to cook the food that I wanted to eat.

AM: What’s the average day like for you, being at Bubby’s?

RS: I’ve been running Bubby’s for a long time, 28 years - so my average day at Bubby’s, I am sort of regimented about how I do what I do. I go to Tribeca and have a coffee and go around and talk to everybody. I go around and kind of see if things are looking good and then I come up to Highline and I do the same thing and then I come up here to my office and I’m a painter. So that’s what I want to do when I come up here, is paint. Once I know that everything is kind of locked down, I can paint. I am also in the cannabis business.

AM: We’re going to get that too as well. So you have the 2 restaurants here and the ones in Japan as well.

RS: Yes, 6!

AM: How do you decide where the next place will be for your restaurant and the community that it serves?

RS: Well I suppose that the world decides for me. I’m not a business person really. So the Japanese people called me 10 years ago and I was like, “there’s no way that I’m doing that” and then we were having lunch the next day and I was walking around the space about a week later. I don’t really make a plan.

AM: Do you think that you would create another concept that is outside of Bubby’s that’s something different?

RS: It’s a good question. I don’t have a lot of reason to do that, but at the same time, I do come up with a lot of ideas that are interesting sometimes so I think that the jury is still out on that.

AM: We were at the Specialty Food Show here in NYC and we saw Azuca. We know that you launched it last year. Can you tell us more about why you are in this space and what made you want to create this?

RS: I’ve been in cannabis space since I have been washing dishes really. So, I’ve smoked weed since I was a kid - like everyone in the kitchen does. I think what really inspired me to get into this business was that I felt that I really had something to offer it. Maybe 6 years ago, I discovered that there was a very large problem which is how cannabis edibles deliver. So I really set up to solve that problem in that regard. I was able to make really good progress with that. In a way, it sort of fell in my lap, but I did a ton of research.

AM: What did you initially launch and are there more launches for this year?

RS: So what we have is a technology really. Azuca is a cannabinoid edibles technology and what that means is that it allows edibles to be consumed in an understandable way which is helpful for people who want to take cannabis or CBD or also for people who want to make edibles. We’re very much in the business of helping people understand cannabis edibles.

AM: What are your plans for that looking at the rest of this year and going into next year?

RS: Well, we’re working with some of the biggest cannabis companies in the country and we’re just getting started with those guys. We are selling CBD, edibles – like our sugar Azuca packs which will be available online and in stores soon. We have THC edibles in Massachusetts with a partner up there and we are also talking to people and other countries about CBD stuff.

AM: You’re also a painter. How long have you been painting and what is it about that that draws you to that form of creativity?

RS: I’ve always been an artist and I started Bubby’s so that I could make art. I can’t really answer what draws me to it. I know that if I don’t do it, I get very crappy.

AM: How many paintings do you create a day?

RS: It depends. I am always working on something. At the moment, I’m doing it on paper which is a little quicker than oil paint. So then all these paper things will be mounted on fabric so that is going to be a big job. I can paint a bunch of things it’s just going to take forever to get them mounted.

AM: Will you ever or have you ever been in a gallery?

RS: I had a show in Mexico City in August.

AM: Wow how exciting! How many pieces were in that show and were you nervous?

RS: 40 pieces and yes it was my first show!

AM: Congratulations! What are 3 signature dishes that we should eat when we come to Bubby’s?

RS: Well the Fried Chicken and pancakes, that’s a thing to eat, we have really good Watermelon Lemonade – that’s a thing to drink and the biscuits! Well the burgers are great too!

AM: When you’re not painting and you’re not focused on Azuca and Bubby’s – what are 3 things that we could find you doing in terms of relaxing and getting your athleisure on?

RS: Smoking bong hits, reading and I have 4 kids.

AM: Do you have any philanthropic efforts that you are a part of that you would like to share?

RS: Bubby’s does a lot of philanthropy. We give stuff to people all the time and support a number of things like New York City's oldest men’s shelter - New York City Rescue Mission. Azuca will have a huge amount of social stuff to do because the cannabis business is very ripe for a lot of different opportunities for a lot of different people who deserve them and don’t have them. So we’re very focused on how we are going to sort of set our company up so that it is incorporating the social aspects of things that we need. Especially the War on Drugs that has been particularly hard on brown people and we’re very much focused on making sure that we’re staying aware of creating opportunities almost in an artificial way. We’re getting a lot of help thinking about that and it’s the biggest deal. In setting up our company it’s run by women and my CEO as well as everyone in the company really has a deep moral compass. I think the jury is out on how we are going to be helpful. Not just philanthropically but also responsible and opportunity creating way. Philanthropy is great, but I think it’s a lot of challenge to create actual opportunity and we’re very much so focused on that.

AM: What legacy do you look to leave behind with all of the fingerprints that you have put down on all these areas?

RS: That is a tough question. I hope that I leave something behind that my kids are part of and something that continues to do good work after I’m gone and maybe I hope to leave behind a bunch of beautiful stuff.

IG @Bubbys

You can hear Ron Silver right now on our show, Athleisure Kitchen which is a part of Athleisure Studio, our multi-media podcast network! Make sure to subscribe to find out when the episode drops. You can hear it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Google Podcasts and wherever you enjoy listening to your favorite podcast.

Read the September Issue of Athleisure Mag and see Higher Art & Good Eats with Ron Silver in mag.

HOW TO DRESS | FOR BRUNCH IN BED

Read more from the April Issue and see How To Dress | For Brunch in Bed in mag.

THE ART OF THE SNACK | BLOODY MARYS

The perfect brunch beverage for a great weekend is the classic Bloody Mary, and of course the only way to improve on this tomato, vodka and seasoned drink is to kick it up with garnishes and seasonings that you may not have thought of to add more zip! If you're in NYC, the 21 Club is a must to enjoy this cocktail. In this month's The Art of the Snack we share a few variations to keep on your drink list.

COURTESY | 21 Club

The British Bloody Mary is a classic with the addition of English Mustard, your hot sauce of choice and of course garnished with a cucumber to add a bit of a refreshing element to this cocktail.

COURTESY | Tesco Real Food

Spicy Sriracha Bloody Mary's is the perfect way to cap off your weekend as this classic not only has sriracha but pineapple juice as well!  

COURTESY | Oh Little Foxes
 

The Chipotle Bloody Mary from The Pioneer Woman has a warm smoky taste that includes fun garnishes.

COURTESY | Chipotle Bloody Mary

Read more from the Oct Issue and see The Art of the Snack | Bloody Mary's in mag.

STEP OUT FOR A DRINK

Spring means that being outside is a given. Any excuse/reason is welcome. To toast this, we put together three looks for after work drinks, impromptu poolside and post brunch beverages with our friend Rachel Sheen, who is in Marvel’s new movie, Deadpool.

We shot our brunch and after work looks at JIMMY Soho which sits atop the James Hotel and we’re sure these looks will find their way into your rotation.

| PHOTOGRAPHY Steve Zak | WARDROBE STYLIST Kimmie Smith/Accessory2 | MUA/HAIR STYLIST Christina Padilla |

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is the aesthetic/vibe of the JIMMY at the James Hotel?

JIMMY SOHO: JIMMY is a grown up, stylish, fun and unpretentious cocktail lounge that has indoor/outdoor capacity. We’re not a dance club although often people are bopping their heads to our DJs (THUR/FRI/SAT night and SAT/SUN afternoons in summer). We’re 18 floors above Soho/Tribeca with nearly 360 views of the city. JIMMY is a fairly intimate space, holding about 100 indoors with room for another 75 outside
in good weather. The vibe is for conversation and socializing, whether that’s after work or post-dinner.

AM: Since JIMMY lounge is a rooftop, what areas are guests able to enjoy now that spring is on its way?

JS: Our roof area is always open for people to step outside but right now people are more focused on staying cozy inside, sitting on couches by the floor-to-ceiling windows, grooving to some great music, and catching up with friends or making new ones.

AM: JIMMY Soho just had an Oscars party, what other events do you have coming up that we should place into our calendars?

JS: We always do Super Bowl and Oscar parties. The next afternoon we’ll have a special gathering will be for The Kentucky Derby. And we open
our afternoon pool-deck parties on May 21, which is when we start opening at 3pm on weekends with afternoon DJs. We’ll also be showing the Olympics this summer both out by the pool and indoors.

AM: What is the signature drink of JIMMY lounge and what are some of the favorite dishes that are enjoyed by guests?

JS: We don’t have one signature cocktail, but we have two cocktails since we have opened that we can’t take off the menu, the Legal
in Vermont-which is Bourbon, Maple, Cinnamon and Shisho over a cinnamon bark ice block, and the other one is The Grapes of Wrath-Vodka,
muddled Grapes and Cucumbers with Elderflower syrup and seltzer.

In terms of dishes the most popular are: Cheeseburger Sliders w/ Jalapeño & Parmesan Fries, Artichoke Flatbread w/ Garlic Ricotta & Fresh Basil
and Falafel Bites w/ Cucumber, Mint & Tzatziki. 

AM: Who are the creators of JIMMY lounge and what are their backgrounds in terms of the culinary and nightlife/mixology scene?

JS: JIMMY was developed by David Rabin and Johnny Swet. David was a founder of Lotus and other well-known nightspots, and is now a partner in Cafe Clover, The Lambs Club, The Skylark and JIMMY. Johnny Swet worked at many of the most iconic spots in NY like Bowery Bar and Pastis before opening his own places, Hotel Griffou and Rogue and Canon. He’s also the cocktail consultant for the Dream Hotel, Cafe Clover, The Skylark and JIMMY, and several other prominent NYC venues. 

AM: What makes JIMMY lounge distinctive in the nightlife scene?

JS: JIMMY is nightlife for people who are either “over” going to big clubs with EDM where they can’t hear themselves speak, or for groups to
gather for a cocktail or two before they head out for a real late-nighter. It’s also the ideal spot to spend a spring/summer weekend afternoon, sipping a cocktail out by the pool. In that way, it’s kind of “day-life”.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | JIMMY

JIMMY LOUNGE 15 Thompson St NY, NY 10013

Love & War

FEB ISSUE

| PHOTOGRAPHY Carlos David | STYLIST Kimmie Smith/Accessory2 | MUA/HAIR Angel Morales | MODELS Kate C/MSA Models + Anastasia V/MSA Models

Photographed at El Barrio Art Space, NYC

Brunch Style

The most important meal of the week without question is brunch. It’s the time to meet with friends, share what you’ve been up to and of course to catch up on a bit of friendly gossip. An Athleisurist knows that style is all about keeping it easy and versatile. This month, our radar is abuzz with layering tonal neutrals with pops of cool tones. Own your next brunch lady date with layers, wool, cashmere a bit of leather.

| STELLA MCCARTNEY Draped Knitted Blanket Coat | ATM Scoop Neck Tank Top | BURBERRY Heritage Giant Check Fringed Cashmere Muffler | SAINT LAURENT Tassel Necklace | BALENCIAGA  Giant 12 Golden City Bag | SONIA RYKIEL Moto Style Wool Blend Leggings | ADIDAS ORIGINALS Leather Superstar Sneakers |