SPRING STAYCATION AT MUSE NEW YORK

A Spring Staycation taken during the week is peak refresh vibes. We stayed at Muse New York where we previously shot an editorial photoshoot a few years ago for our MAR ISSUE #87. We looked forward to our suite, private balcony, and a spacious bathroom as a way to reset!

Since our last time being at this hotel, Little Opus has opened for a great restaurant option throughout the day as well as to enjoy cocktails, there are a number of events to enjoy at the hotel as well as amenities. It’s also located to enjoy and navigate a number of restaurants nearby. We chatted with Natalie Bogan, the property’s General Manager to find out what we need to know about the property as well as why travelers, staycationers, and even those who live and work in the neighborhood should swing by.

ATHLEISURE MAG: As we navigate the Spring and get ready for the Summer, The Muse Hotel is in the heart of the city! What is the vibe of this hotel whether you’re on a staycation, traveling for business, on vacation or swinging by for a meeting?

NATALIE BOGAN: The Muse is a boutique Midtown retreat. Intimate, design-forward, and quietly polished, it offers a more personal New York experience just steps from the energy of Times Square. Whether visiting for business, leisure, or a staycation, guests enjoy the feeling of being in the center of it all while tucked away in a refined city escape.

AM: Tell us about the common areas of the property that guests can enjoy.

NB: Our common spaces are designed to feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. The lobby flows into Little Opus, our all-day café, bar, and restaurant, where guests can enjoy morning coffee, casual meetings, cocktails, or unwind throughout the day. Debuting June 2026, we are also excited to introduce The Pocket, our intimate new jazz venue that will bring live music and vibrant energy to the hotel experience.

AM: You have a number of room options available for guests, can you tell us about them?

NB: Our guestrooms are designed as a calm retreat above the energy of Midtown, blending comfort, style, and thoughtful details. Each room features a working desk, mini fridge, smart TV, in-room safe, and make-up mirror, with still and sparkling water stations available on every other floor. Guests can choose from a range of accommodations, including Grand King rooms with a custom king bed and suites with pull-out sofas for added flexibility. We also offer eight spacious balcony rooms with private terraces ranging from 200 to 500 square feet, perfect for stepping outside, unwinding, and taking in sweeping city views.

AM: What amenities are offered for guests staying at the hotel?

NB: A curated collection of amenities ensures a seamless and memorable stay, including high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center with Technogym equipment and Pelotons, in-room dining, and concierge service with curated local recommendations. Little Opus, our all-day café, bar, and restaurant, and The Pocket, our intimate on-site jazz venue debuting in June 2026, further enhance the experience, along with exclusive discounted partnerships across wellness, lifestyle, and city experiences.

AM: What can you tell us about Little Opus?

NB: Little Opus is the social heart of The Muse and a favorite hidden gem for both guests and locals. Our all-day café, bar, and restaurant transitions effortlessly from morning coffee and breakfast to lunch, evening cocktails, and dinner. Warm, stylish, and inviting, the space is elevated by signature artwork from Markus Sebastiano, adding to its creative New York energy. Guests can also enjoy live jazz music on the last Tuesday of every month, along with rotating weekly specials that bring something new to discover with each visit.

AM: For those coming for Breakfast, what are 3 dishes or items that we should have in mind when we are swinging by?

NB: Breakfast at Little Opus is the perfect way to ease into the day. Three favorites to have in mind are our Farmer’s Market Avocado Toast, the Savory Breakfast Bowl with seasonal vegetables and chili lime yogurt, and our seasonal Honey Oat Cinnamon Latte, which is a personal favorite and the perfect cozy start to the morning.

AM: When it’s time for Lunch, what are 3 items that we should think about enjoying with friends and family?

NB: Lunch at Little Opus is fresh, satisfying, and perfect for a Midtown break with friends, family, or colleagues. Three favorites we love are The Opus B.L.T. with thickcut applewood bacon, our Vegetarian Composition with grilled seasonal vegetables and house-made balsamic glaze, and one of our Seasonal Grain or Salad Bowls that are light, flavorful, and city-ready.

AM: As we shift into Dinner, what are 3 dishes we should be thinking about at this time of day?

NB: As the evening unfolds, Little Opus takes on a warm, inviting energy. Notable dishes include our Pan-Seared Salmon, cooked to perfection and beautifully balanced, K-Town Chicken Wings with bold flavor and just the right kick, and our wagyu sliders. Or, if you’re like me, just order truffle fries, a Caesar Salad, and a Diet Coke for the ultimate girl dinner.

AM: For those that are looking to swing by for Happy Hour or pre/post dinner drinks, what are 3 cocktails that we should consider when relaxing?

Our favorite seasonal cocktail is the Honeyed Eleanore crafted with honey sourced directly from our rooftop hive. Bright and refreshing, it highlights natural sweetness balanced with citrus for a distinctly local and memorable sip.

For timeless favorites, the Marquee Martini remains a crisp, refreshing guest staple. We’re also proud to continue our partnership with Woodinville Whiskey, an award-winning Washington State bourbon rooted in craftsmanship and estate-grown grains from a three-generation family farm. Showcasing that collaboration, our Good Morning, Tonight offers a playful, breakfast-inspired Old Fashioned that guests can customize to their taste.

AM: Tell us about the bees on the roof, your partnership with Alvéole, and the Bees Knees Cocktail.

NB: The 19th floor is home to our active beehive, maintained in partnership with Alvéole, a leader in urban beekeeping focused on sustainability, education, and pollinator health. These rooftop bees support local biodiversity, and their honey is harvested seasonally for use throughout our food and beverage program.

We also celebrate this ingredient through the Bee’s Knees, a classic Prohibition-era cocktail made with gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey. Simple and refined, it highlights the natural sweetness and versatility of honey in a bright, citrus-forward drink.

AM: For those bringing their dog to stay with them, what can you tell us about the Welcome Package for them?

NB: Our welcome package is designed to make four-legged family members feel right at home from the moment they arrive, featuring a plush bed, water bowl, and a special keepsake gift to remember The Muse long after their stay. Through our partnership with Procure Impact, we source select items from Turn2U Productions, supporting a mission that creates meaningful employment opportunities and promotes inclusive growth.

AM: We love getting into the gym, what can you tell us about the Fitness Center?

NB: Our 24-hour fitness center is designed for travelers who want to maintain their routine without compromise. Featuring brand new Technogym equipment and Peloton bikes, the space offers a sleek, elevated and highly efficient environment, ideal for everything from an energizing early morning workout before meetings to a restorative reset after a day in the city. Guests can also enjoy personalized Muse workouts available both in the fitness center and in-room, with the option to further enhance recovery and overall wellbeing through our Muse Wellness partnership with Technogym.

AM: Are there any special packages that we should have in mind when we are thinking about booking our upcoming stays that you would like to highlight?

NB: We love packages that help guests experience more of both the hotel and the city. One seasonal favorite is our Midnight Muse package, inspired by Times Square’s Midnight Moment, the world’s largest and longest-running digital public art program. Each night from 11:57 PM to midnight, contemporary artwork is displayed across 92 digital screens from 41st to 49th Streets, creating a true only-in-New-York experience just steps from our front door.

We also offer our Picnic Package in partnership with PikNYC, designed for effortless exploration of the city. It features a thoughtfully curated picnic selection perfect for enjoying in nearby parks or along the waterfront, making it easy to step outside and experience New York at your own pace.

AM: Are there any perks that we should be aware of that guests can enjoy when booking?

NB: Guests are in the center of it all, with direct access to Broadway, Bryant Park, Fifth Avenue, and Midtown’s most iconic attractions, while still returning to a hotel that feels intimate and tucked away. Through our neighborhood partnerships, guests receive exclusive discounts and preferred access with RiseNY, Comedy Village, GlamSquad, and Joanna Vargas Spa.

Our concierge team is always on hand to curate these experiences, creating a more personalized and connected New York stay.

AM: Tell us about Shiny and why you wanted to have this as an option for guests.

NB: Shiny is our digital tipping platform, created to make guest recognition easier in an increasingly cashless world. It gives guests a simple, seamless way to thank the team members who helped make their stay special, even without carrying cash. For us, it was important to offer a modern option that supports our associates while keeping the guest experience thoughtful and intuitive.

AM: What can you tell us about the neighborhood and what we should know about it?

NB: Our neighborhood captures the essence of New York. Located in the heart of Times Square, guests are steps from Broadway theaters, world-class shopping, and the city’s most iconic energy. We are also just off Sixth Avenue, making the hotel especially convenient for corporate travelers with offices along the corridor. It offers the perfect balance, allowing guests to be in the center of it all while returning to a space that feels calm, intimate, and removed from the pace outside.

AM: Are there any special events coming up that we should know about whether we are staying on property, or we happen to be in the neighborhood?

NB: We are eagerly anticipating one of the most exciting additions to The Muse this summer: the arrival of The Pocket. Launching in June, it is the newest project from Grant Gardner and Martin Porter, Michelin-starred hospitality veterans behind Jazz Standard, Crane Club, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and Blue Note.

Designed to evoke the intimacy of New York’s legendary 52nd Street jazz rooms of the 1940s and 1950s, The Pocket places music at the center, with exceptional acoustics and some of the finest sightlines in the city, creating a truly immersive experience. The opening roster features world-class talent including Wynton Marsalis, The Mingus Big Band, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Donny McCaslin, and Lakecia Benjamin, setting a sophisticated tone from the very first performance. True to the founders’ hospitality background, the venue will also offer an elevated food and beverage program, inviting guests to begin the evening with dinner and cocktails before settling in for a refined and unforgettable night of live music.

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Muse New York

Read the APR ISSUE #124 of Athleisure Mag and see SPRING STAYCATION AT MUSE NEW YORK in mag.

SPRING STAYCATION | NOMO SOHO + CHOLA

We've navigated the fall and winter and depending where you're located, you're experiencing varying degrees of Spring! We love that during this time of year, you just want to do more things outside for longer periods! We also love that you feel the need to get a change of pace and sometimes it's not about traveling to a far off locale, but to experience your city and its neighborhoods in a different way!

For this month's location, we decided that a staycation in SoHo was the perfect way to enjoy of of our favorite neighborhoods. The ability to have an array of shopping destinations, restaurants, galleries, and more in the area is a great way to have a bit of a reset whether you do it solo, with friends, family, or your significant other!

To kick off our staycation, we stayed at the NoMo SoHo located on 9 Crosby St. We love that this area is Instagram ready, makes you feel like you're in the midst of fashionable brands from Maison Margiela, Alexis Bittar, R13 Denim, and Flying Solo to name a few, and has epic views with their floor to cieling windows where we could take in Hudson Yards and World Trade Center.

We have had the pleasure of attending a number of editor events, grabbing a bite at NoMo Kitchen, and more. We sat down and talked with NoMo SoHo's General Manager, Jeff Harvey, to find out about this hotel, amenities that it offers, the guest experience!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We've had the pleasure of attending events at this property from a number of years when it was the Mondrian and when it became the NoMo SoHo. Before we delve into the hotel, what can you tell us about what draws people to SoHo?

JEFF HARVEY: SoHo is an iconic Manhattan neighborhood - it’s infused with creativity, evocative expression, and artistic dedication - and we are lucky to call it home. Guests who stay at NoMo SoHo are truly in the epicenter of fashion, art, culture and nightlife, experiencing the best of the city.

AM: When did NoMo SoHo open?

JH: The hotel rebranded as NoMo SoHo in 2015.

AM: One of our favorite things about the hotel is the entrance. It's fun to see the graffiti, the arced trees and the lights. What is the overall aesthetic of this hotel that you want guests to feel when they enter?

JH: We’re very focused on art, and are proud to showcase both local artists and world-renowned talent. The archway at the entrance called the Tunnel of Love, along with the surrounding pieces, prepare guests for what they’ll see once inside: a graffiti-style heart mural in NoMo Kitchen from J. Goldcrown and rotating exhibitions throughout the hotel. Most recently, we showed art from local artist Robert Malmberg’s collection “The Sum of our Parts,” and we have exciting art and cultural activations planned for the remainder of the year.

AM: We love that this hotel has a number spaces that are IG worthy, including NoMo Kitchen. Can you tell us about the ambiance and when it is open?

JH: NoMo Kitchen is situated on the ground floor in a bright, vibrant greenhouse setting, offering a true SoHo dining experience. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and serves brunch Friday through Sunday. The restaurant extends onto the patio with the Rose Garden, an outdoor dining option open any time the weather permits. This floral oasis in the middle of the city is a picture-perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends.

AM: In terms of the perfect Spring cocktail, what are 3 that you suggest for lunch?

JH: We suggest the “Spring Fizz,” made with a gin base, bergamot liqueur, raspberry notes, lemon & a splash of grapefruit. This cocktail is refreshing and light, making it perfect for sipping on a warm spring day. We also recommend the “Rose Spritz,” made with sparkling rose and St. Germain, perfect for outdoor gatherings and pairs wonderfully with springtime fare. For guests looking to enjoy a cocktail sans-alcohol, we recommend the “Immuniti” mocktail with hibiscus, fresh thyme and lime.

AM: When we're popping by for lunch, what are 3 appetizers that we can share?

JH: When enjoying lunch at NoMo Kitchen, we’d recommend sharing the roasted tomato burrata, the crab coquettes, and endive bites. These simple but classic options are the perfect tasty portions to start a lunch rendezvous.

AM: What are 3 dishes that you suggest for lunch that should be on our radar?

JH: For lunch, our flatbreads are always a hit. The heirloom tomato and garlic or the vodka sauce and burrata are not to be missed.

AM: As we move into dinner, what are 3 appetizers that you suggest that are on this portion of the menu?

JH: For dinner, we recommend the beef tartare, garlic shrimp, and the king oyster mushrooms to start.

AM: What are 3 entrees that we should consider for dinner when sharing with friends and family?

JH: When sharing at dinner, we recommend sharing the seafood paella or the whole baked rainbow trout. Both entrees have generous portions and are ideal when sharing.

AM: What are 3 cocktails that we should have for dinner?

JH: For dinner, we recommend guests order a classic martini, a timeless cocktail that's simple yet sophisticated, making it an excellent choice to accompany dinner. From our menu of signature cocktails at NoMo, “The Fix” is made with bourbon, campari, white peach & chipotle, perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with a variety of dishes. For guests looking for a lighter drink, we recommend the “Sun Kissed” featuring citrus and ginger flavors. These dinner cocktails offer a range of flavors and styles to complement various meals and occasions, from light and refreshing to bold and aromatic.

AM: What are 3 entrees that we can have for brunch when sharing with friends and family?

JH: Some of our most popular brunch offerings include the NoMo lemon ricotta pancakes, the avocado toast, and the NoMo burger. These options provide the perfect variety of savory and sweet to satisfy any craving.

AM: What are 3 brunch approved cocktails that we should enjoy?

JH: NoMo Kitchen recently launched its spring menu, featuring a great variety of seasonal, internationally-inspired dishes. It includes some year-round favorites, like our lemon ricotta pancakes and NoMo burger, alongside new items like a baked whole rainbow trout, ricotta flatbread with sundried tomatoes and artichokes, and a strawberry rhubarb tart. Combined with our mixologists’ expertly crafted cocktails, the new menus ensure guests can find the perfect option for their ideal meal in SoHo.

AM: We love a good Happy Hour - what do you offer during this time of day?

JH: Our happy hour is from 4-5pm every weeknight, and we offer discounted drinks and bites for those looking for an afternoon snack or a quick stop after work. During happy hour, beers start at $8, wines and spirits start at $10, and select appetizers such as grilled fish tacos, sriracha honey chicken wings and angus beef sliders start at $10.

AM: We love Taco Tuesday and in the month of March, you have some amazing themes. What are some themes that you have for this for the rest of the Spring and as we head into the Summer?

JH: Our chefs have been flexing their creativity with our Taco Tuesday menus. Past dishes have included octopus tacos with purple potatoes for National Octopus Day and Kahlua-marinated carnitas for National Kahlua Day. Upcoming menus will celebrate National peanut butter & jelly day with a first-time dessert taco and National German beer day for example where the taco protein will be battered. Taco Tuesday at NoMo Kitchen is served as a combo paired with a Margarita that follows the theme.

AM: We really enjoyed seeing the views from our room as those floor to ceiling windows were great! For guests who are staying at NoMo SoHo, tell us about the rooms as well as suites that you offer and what are the amenities that you have available?

JH: We’re proud to be in the tallest building in SoHo, and our floor-to-ceiling windows show off the incredible views that come with that distinction. Depending on which way the room is facing, travelers can get truly panoramic views of the beautiful city skyline, seeing the bridges into Brooklyn and overlooking the Empire State Building. The hotel’s spacious rooms feature full-size work desks, C.O. Bigelow bath amenities, luxurious bathrooms and more.

AM: You offer a #YourPlace package that allows people to use a room during the day. This is such a great concept - can you tell us about what day guests can enjoy when purchasing this package and if there are discounts for those who want to book a series of days?

JH: YourPlace allows guests to rent rooms for four or eight hours, providing premium day-use rooms that are popular with remote workers looking for a quiet, distraction-free place to boost productivity. These rooms come with complimentary snacks, access to our fitness center, and contactless room service.

AM: Tell us about your fitness center and what you offer here.

JH: Our 24-hour fitness center is equipped with cardio machines, free weights and weight machines. NoMo SoHo also frequently hosts public workout classes in our Penthouse or outdoor terrace (seasonally), open to guests looking to break a sweat and take in some of the best views of the city.

AM: There are many reasons why people are at your hotel and there is something about being in historic SoHo! For those that live in the neighborhood and are not staying at the hotel, but swing by NoMo SoHo for a Taco Tuesday, what are 2 additional things that you suggest that they should do in the neighborhood?

JH: SoHo has incredible shopping and a wide variety of art galleries. We always recommend that guests take in all of the art they can find nearby, and frequently see guests toting shopping bags into the hotel.

AM: For those that are enjoying a vacation or staycation, what are 3 things that you suggest that they should do in SoHo or in a nearby neighborhood?

JH: In addition to art and fashion, New York City is filled with opportunities to see live performances. Whether it’s a comedy show or a concert, it’s highly recommended.

AM: For our business traveler, who has the pleasure of staying at the hotel. What are meeting options you have for their gathering needs on property and what are 3 things that you suggest that they can enjoy in terms of bonding with their fellow colleagues that are off property and are in SoHo?

JH: Our event venues offer incredible variety. For a traditional meeting, groups can book our ground floor gallery or terrace, or groups can opt to book the Penthouse & terrace for a meeting with a view. The Penthouse has 360-degree views of the city, ample outdoor space, and can be configured to fit groups large and small. Business dinners in NoMo Kitchen are always a hit, and there’s no shortage of entertainment just outside of our doors for business travelers looking to take in more of the city.

AM: With the Spring and the Summer around the corner, are there events coming up that NoMo SoHo will be part of that you would like for us to know about?

JH: We just launched a series of wellness classes with Sound of Om, a local partner leading yoga, sound baths, meditation and more in our Penthouse. It’s a great way for guests and locals to relax atop the city. The Rose Garden is also open this spring and summer for diners looking to take in the weather during the warmer months.

AM: Are there any packages that you would like to highlight that we should keep on our radar?

JH: Our Pride offer will be available for stays throughout the month of June and will give guests a Pride welcome amenity, credit to dine at NoMo Kitchen, and two complimentary Pride cocktails at the restaurant’s bar.

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | NoMo SoHo

We love that a staycation allows you to really enjoy a neighborhood at a granular level whether it's trying a new coffee spot, walking into a lounge for a few drinks, or taking in the architecture in the area! But when you're in a city like NYC, you are only an Uber or subway ride away from changing up the vibe!

We decided to revisit Chola, which we have previously featured in The Art of the Snack for our NOV ISSUE #49 in 2019. They have been making incredible Indian cuisine for 26 years and we wanted to try new dishes on the menu as well as take in the vibe and heartwarming way that they create each dish that leaves their kitchen. After an epic meal on the UES, we wanted to go deeper into their history, find out about the founder Shiva Natarajan as well as its owner Min Bhujel, and what guests can expect from this restaurant which is enjoyed by so many including Martha Stewart who has dishes named for her!

ATHLEISURE MAG: We had the pleasure of dining at Chola a few years ago and enjoyed the dishes that we had. Can you tell us a bit about the history of Chola as we know it opened in 1998!

CHOLA: Chola first opened its doors in February 1998, initially offering a menu centered around North Indian cuisine; however, it wasn't until founder Shiva Natarajan introduced South Indian dishes to the menu that the restaurant truly garnered attention. This pivotal move earned them a notable two-star review from The New York Times, propelling Chola to its current status as an acclaimed dining destination.

AM: Shiva Natarajan founded the restaurant and is known as a pioneer in Indian Cuisine here in NY. Can you tell us about his background and what led him to creating Chola?

C: Shiva, the founder of Chola, initially embarked on a career in finance as a young professional. However, after a few years in the financial sector, Shiva realized that his true calling lay in the culinary world. Growing up, he spent considerable time in the kitchen, learning invaluable techniques and recipes from his grandmother. This early exposure ignited his curiosity and passion for food and cooking, ultimately prompting him to transition away from finance. Inspired by his love for Indian cuisine, Shiva ventured into the restaurant industry, launching establishments like Sahib and Malai Marke. Through these ventures, he played a pivotal role in pioneering the Indian dining scene in New York City.

AM: We enjoyed meeting Min Bhujel as we dined at Chola this month and he is now its owner. Can you tell us about his journey in the culinary industry, working alongside Shiva, what it means to run the restaurant, and what the goals are for the upcoming years?

C: Min Bhujel embarked on his culinary journey in his native India, accumulating 16 years of experience in the hospitality sector. Upon moving to the U.S., he had the privilege of being mentored by Shiva, eventually becoming his protégé and right-hand man for over a decade. During this time, Min played integral roles in the operation and management of several of Shiva’s acclaimed restaurants.

Now, as the owner of Chola, Min's journey has come full circle. Running the restaurant holds profound significance for him, symbolizing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication in the culinary industry.

Looking ahead, Min, alongside Shiva, aims to uphold Chola's recognition in the Michelin Guide. Their ultimate aspiration is to earn a coveted MICHELIN star for the restaurant, reflecting their unwavering commitment to culinary excellence and innovation.

AM: What is Shiva's involvement in Chola at this point?

C: Shiva remains heavily involved in Chola's operations, particularly in menu and recipe development. He maintains a consistent on-site presence, diligently overseeing the quality and consistency of their menu items and service. Acting as a guiding force, Shiva continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring the restaurant's ongoing success.

AM: Shiva was on Martha Stewart's, Martha Cooks on Roku and is currently writing a cookbook. Can you tell us about this recent appearance as well as his cookbook?

C: During his recent appearance on Martha Cooks, Shiva teamed up with his friend and longtime patron, Martha Stewart, to showcase the preparation of some beloved traditional Indian dishes. Sharing his expertise, he provided valuable insights on spice selection and demonstrated the art of cooking Martha's favorite Indian dishes, including Butter Chicken, Okra, Lemon Rice, and Raita Yogurt.

Additionally, Shiva is currently channeling his extensive knowledge and experience of Indian cuisine into writing a cookbook. This endeavor aims to consolidate his culinary wisdom and travels across India, where he has picked up countless regional recipes to be shared with the world.

AM: When we're talking about Indian food, what are the ingredients and spices that are indicative of this cuisine?

C: When discussing Indian cuisine, several key ingredients and spices come to mind that are indicative of its rich, vibrant flavors. Some of these include curry leaves, coriander, cumin, saffron, cloves, chili, fenugreek, tamarind, and ginger.

AM: From a culinary standpoint, what regions do the dishes offered come from?

C: The dishes offered at Chola originate from diverse regions across India. These include Northern Indian regions like Kashmir and Punjab, as well as Kolkata in the northeast, and southern regions along the coast such as Bangalore and Karnataka. Shiva's extensive travels throughout India have enabled him to bring back traditional and original recipes from these regions, enriching Chola's menu for his customers to enjoy.

AM: You make your Ghee fresh at Chola - why is this such an important ingredient?

C: Freshly made Ghee holds significant importance at Chola due to its profound impact on the flavor of the cuisine. Crafted daily through the tempering technique, it enhances the taste and aroma of the dishes. One of Chola's best-kept secrets lies in the special blend of herbs used to temper the Ghee, further enriching its flavor and aroma.

AM: Before we delve into the menu, can you tell us about what guests can expect to see when they come into the restaurant. And can you tell us about the iconic vintage clock?

C: With a passion for antiquing, Shiva procured a broken antique clock from a train station three years ago. After careful restoration and customization, this clock now proudly adorns Chola's entrance, symbolizing its enduring presence in the Upper East Side neighborhood for the past 26 years.

Stepping inside, guests are greeted in the front room that features a spacious bar embellished with golden hanging pendants, exuding a warm and inviting glow. In the dining room, marbled walls complement gray banquettes lining the perimeter, while black and white photographs showcase coastal scenes from Southern India, offering a glimpse into the cuisine's origins. Throughout the restaurant, a blend of modern and traditional accents pays homage to the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture.

AM: In our recent visit, we were reminded of why we love this restaurant as you can feel the love and mindfulness in the dishes. It's also amazing to watch the faces of others that are there as you can see that they are being transported as well. Can you talk about some of the traditional culinary practices that are upheld at Chola?

C: At the heart of Chola's cuisine lies a deep-rooted passion and reverence for traditional cooking methods. Drawing inspiration from familial traditions, the kitchen meticulously upholds these practices to preserve the authenticity of each dish.

For Shiva, maintaining these culinary traditions is akin to staging a Broadway performance each night. The kitchen is expected to operate at peak performance, ensuring the consistency and excellence in every dish. This dedication guarantees that each visit to Chola promises the same high-quality experience for their patrons.

AM: You have new items on the menu which I know we had the pleasure of having. For an appetizer, what are 3 dishes that you suggest that we should share with friends and family?

C: For appetizers, here are three dishes Shiva highly recommends sharing with friends and family:

• Baghari Jhinga, creamy mustard shrimp from Kashmir

• Phuckawala Alu Dum, spiced tamarind potatoes, fresh coriander, and ginger

• Lasoni Gobi, tangy cauliflower, ginger, and garlic

AM: For the entree, what are 3 dishes that you suggest that we should enjoy?

C: For Entrees, Shiva suggests the following:

• Lata Shetty’s Lobster Ghee Roast, a family recipe from Shiva’s mother-in-law with tamarind, coconut, and onions

• Meen Polichattu, pan seared fish in a banana leaf

• Tanjavur Avial, a coconut-vegetable dish from Kerala

AM: We are huge fans of Saag Paneer and we did enjoy that when we visited, but we also had a new favorite, Gosht Saag! The lamb was lovely and that balanced with the spinach was truly a great experience! Can guests who enjoy a specific meat like goat have it paired with a curry or sauce that would make it a unique dish that may not be officially on the menu?

C: While we strive to accommodate our guests' preferences, our preparation method involves marinating and grilling meats specific to the masala or curry they will accompany. This meticulous process ensures optimal flavor but limits the flexibility to interchange meats with our sauce variety. Therefore, we cannot always accommodate the interchanging of meats and sauces, but we are confident there is something for everyone on our expansive menu.

AM: What are 3 meat based dishes that we should think about having for our next meal?

C: For Meat dishes, Shiva suggests:

• Melagu Kozhi Chettinad, a spicy pepper chicken curry dish from the house of Chettiyars

• Golbari Kosha Mangsho, a slow cooked bone-in goat curry from Kolkata

• Saag Gosht, spiced lamb, pureed spinach, ginger

AM: We love the rice and naan dishes that are offered - what are 3 that we should order for the table?

C: Must try rice and Naan items are:

• Misti Rice, a delicacy from Kolkata that features sweet rice, cashews, raisins, and ghee

• Mughlai Goat Biryani, a highly aromatic specialty with Basmati rice, whole spices, yogurt, and herbs served in a clay pot

• For Naan, the Chili Onion Naan is recommended for spice lovers

AM: To complete our meal, what are 3 desserts that we should think about having to share?

CC: To round off your meal perfectly, patrons should try the following desserts:

• Kulfi, a condensed milk and saffron ice cream

• Misti Dohi, a fermented sweetened yogurt from Kolkata

• Coconut Barfi, coconut squares with cardamom

AM: The cocktails have been curated by Allen Katz, Owner of the New York Distilling Company. Can you talk about his background and what his vision was for your beverage program?

C: The cocktails at Chola have been crafted by Allen Katz, Owner of the New York Distilling Company. With a background as one of the nation’s foremost authorities on distilled spirits and cocktails, Allen serves as the Director of Spirits Education & Mixology for Southern Wine & Spirits of New York. Renowned for his expertise, he conducts public and professional seminars on topics such as America’s food and cocktail heritage and even hosted The Cocktail Hour for Martha Stewart on SiriusXM.

For Chola's beverage program, Allen created cocktails that harmonize perfectly with the cuisine. He aimed to provide refreshing options that complement the bold flavors of our spicier dishes, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience for Chola’s guests.

AM: What are 3 cocktails that you suggest that we should order when enjoying our meal?

C: From Allen’s list, must try cocktails include:

• Himalayan Sunset, Spring 44 vodka, King’s Ginger liqueur, mango puree and fresh lime juice

• East of Manhattan, Ragtime rye, La Copa sweet vermouth and saffron syrup

• Ginger Lime Fizz, vodka, orange liqueur, ginger, fresh lime and cranberry juice

AM: In terms of beer and wine, what are 3 you suggest?

C: When it comes to beer and wine selections, Shiva recommends the following:

• Indian beers like Taj Mahal and Kingfisher offer a refreshing complement to the cuisine

• Rose from Driopi, Greece pairs nicely with a variety of dishes

• And don't miss out on Chola’s house-made Lassis, available in Mango, Sweet, and Salt variations, which are great non-alcoholic beverage options

IG @cholanyc

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Chola

Read the MAR ISSUE #99 of Athleisure Mag and see SPRING STAYCATION | NoMo SoHo + Chola in mag.