NOVEMBER-DECEMBER ISSUE OF HAUTE LIVING SAN FRANCISCO

S A N F R A N C I S C O | S I L I C O N VA L L E Y | M A R I N | N A PA | N O R T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A

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LUXURY LIFESTYLE WITH PURPOSE

GREAT LOCAL HOLIDAY GIFTS LUXE SKI RESORTS THAT ARE OPEN THREE WOMEN RESHAPING BAY AREA FOOD & WINE RECIPES FROM MICHAEL MINA FESTIVE BUBBLES FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Performing Arts

$20.00

POSTPONED BUT NOT SILENCED THE POWER OF MUSIC GONE VIRTUAL TO ENRICH, TO UNITE, TO HEAL

ORNIA N CALIF ORTHER NAPA | N MARIN | VA L L E Y | SILICON | O C S I NC SAN FRA

• +20,000 Highest valued homes in California • +2,800 High Value Private Jet Owners in USA • Private Jet FBOs in Selected Airports Nationwide • Luxury auto dealer showrooms • Leading Yacht Clubs in San Francisco Bay Area • Forbes list of billionaires • Top 2,000 corporate CEOs/owners in San Francisco, Silicon Valley & California • Luxury hotels in Northern California • Powerful websites on ISSUU.com, HauteLivingSF.com, and email marketing • Wall Street Journal list of top 250 luxury real estate agents in the USA • All events we sponsor and cover

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S A N F R A N C I S C O | S I L I C O N VA L L E Y | M A R I N | N A PA | N O R T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A

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THE FASHION ISS U RESORT-LIKE SANCTUARY

ESTATES IDEAL FOR EXCLUSIVE INT ERVIEW WITH WES GO AND A SNEAK SHELTER-IN-PLACE PEAK OF THE LA RDON OF CAROLINA H TEST FASHION TRENDS F NEW YO RK FASH ENCHANTED WORLD OFION WE EK ESSENTIAL OILS

Wellness & Beauty Issue

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IN AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW, LEGENDARY ACTRESS SOPHIA LOREN REVEALS HER SECRETS TO LIVING A LONG, HEALTHY, ACTIVE LIFE.

Publisher’s LETTER

OLIVIA HSU DECKER OWNER/PUBLISHER Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com www.HauteLivingSF.com Text 415.720.5915 Keep up with us digitally at www.HauteLivingSF.com

2020 FEELS LIKE AN ETERNITY, BUT WE ARE FINALLY PUBLISHING our last issue of the year and celebrating the holiday season. In this challenging year, we witnessed the coronavirus pandemic, the tragic loss of many Black lives, and California’s massive wildfires, not to mention the shut-down of just about everything from schools, sports, offices, restaurants, stores, and hotels to performing arts and all public events, extending from a 4-week original plan to more than seven months! We are now accustomed to schooling children at home, working from home, Zoom meetings for all sorts of events, and building closer relationships with ourselves and our families while sheltering in place at home and wearing masks.

We are proud that our community is so resilient and strong to cope with the dramatic change of lifestyle and daily routine. As a luxury lifestyle magazine, we pivoted from sponsoring and covering the Bay Area’s finest events to focusing on health, wellness, beauty, and COVID-19 research. We were surprised to gain more readers who enjoy our new content as being more relevant and helpful in dealing with the stress of confinement and restrictions.

You might wonder what happened to the performing arts concerts, opening galas, and events. Our cover story reports how San Francisco Opera, Symphony, and Festival Napa Valley each had to cancel their entire season’s planned performing programs. Thankfully, they continue to provide much needed music entertainment to enrich, unite, and heal our community and provide our schools with much-needed music education programs. They employed all sorts of creative and virtual programs that brought music and hope to many during the pandemic. Music is a global language without borders that touches our emotions and showcases talents from all races.

We salute the performing arts musicians who keep the music playing to help heal us. We hope you read this cover story, enjoy their programs, and support them with your generous donations.

We want to cheer you up with this holiday issue with an extra serving of food and wine articles (26 pages to be exact!), a holiday gift shopping guide to stores where you can browse and shop for gifts, and a report on luxury ski resorts that are open! We profiled masterful San Francisco plastic surgeon Dr. Dino Elyassnia, in case you wish to look 15 to 20 years younger for the New Year. We also profiled Charleston Pierce and his “Bay Area Models for Black Lives” production, using his fashion superpowers to support the Black community. We also pay tribute to our beloved philanthropist, Ann Getty, who left us last month after an unexpected heart attack. Our future event scene pages will miss her dearly.

We wish you a very happy holiday season! Stay well, stay strong, and stay positive,

Hot Property

AZTEC ESTATE Los Gatos, California AztecEstateLosGatos.com Offered at $16,950,000 Towering above Silicon Valley and Los Gatos hills, the 52Âą acre Aztec Estate offers 8 bedrooms, 9 baths, appx. 10,309 sq. ft. in the main house and 1,800Âą sq. ft. in the 2 bedroom, 2 bath guest house, a pool with spa, a tennis court, ridge-top 360-degree panoramic views, incredible scale and unrivaled quality, all in one of the most exceptional settings in Northern California.

The breathtaking panoramic views span the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Secluded in a private enclave at the end of a gated drive, the residence features soaring ceiling atrium, modern open floor plan, sweeping entertainment decks and sliding glass walls that bring phenomenal views to the forefront of the living experience.

The main residence features superior quality and resort-like amenities throughout the extraordinary living space, linear designs, and prominent contemporary styling. Engineering and utilitarian elements play into the timeless design of George Foy, with materials like glass, stone, and steel used liberally in construction to showcase the natural beauty of this estate and the finest selection of materials and finishes, exquisite interior design and exterior landscape.

Behind double glass doors, a light-infused, two-story atrium studded with trees leads to a series of intimate and grand-scale living and dining spaces. The soaring floor-to-ceiling windows flood the rooms with natural light, immersing guests in the breathtaking views beyond. The gourmet chef’s kitchen, with large center island and topof-the-line appliances, features large butler’s pantry, full-sized indoor grill, and over-sized custom glass windows.

Secluded in its own private wing, the luxurious master suite is surrounded by sweeping panoramic views. An opulent marble bathroom boasts amazing ceiling heights and custom walk-in closets.

With an office space, over-sized fireplace and sitting area, sliding doors lead to a sprawling outdoor lounge overlooking the pool below and sunset on the horizon.

This gated estate offers total privacy, steel frame construction, wine cellar, billiards room with wet bar, two custom offices, and state-ofthe-art technology. The estate’s resort-like grounds are as impressive

as the residence, offering the versatility to retreat in serenity or entertain with lavish events. Features include an infinity pool, spa, tennis/basketball court, outdoor bar and grill, fire pit, manicured gardens, various terraces and seating areas, fountains, waterfall and wrap-around decks with endless views.

As seen on HGTV’s Extreme Homes, Forbes magazine and DuPont Registry, this stunning private enclave, just minutes from the heart of energetically charged Silicon Valley, maintains a retreat from the bustling lights below while sharing the neighborhood with several of Silicon Valley’s elites. Aztec Estate is truly a unique combination of privacy, serenity, panoramic views and luxury amenities all in this one-of-a-kind modern masterpiece.

For details, video and photos, please visit: AztecEstateLosGatos.com

Olivia Hsu Decker SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell 415.720.5915 Olivia @SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Lic.# 00712080

AztecEstateLosGatos.com

California Lifestyle Collection Magnificent San Francisco Masterpiece

7 Beds | 8 Baths | 3 Half Baths | 16,000Âą sq. ft.

This stunning Italianate mansion enjoys views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, Palace of Fine Arts, Alcatraz Island, Marin Headlands, Fort Mason, Russian Hill, Coit Tower, City and the East Bay hills. Exquisite architectural detailing is found throughout, with seven en-suite bedrooms, eight full bathrooms and three half bathrooms, formal living room, formal dining room, reception hall, grand foyer, mezzanine, library, seven fireplaces, eat-in kitchen, media room, family room, wine room, au-pair quarters with kitchen, gym, five marble terraces, six cast bronze balconies, garden with irrigation, gated driveway with parking plus four car garage, elevator, security system with cameras, two laundry facilities, and is wired for Wi-Fi, automatic drapery, and Lutron lighting throughout. Close to Union Street

Offered–atOr $21,000,000 $21,000,000 Best Offer shopping district, prestigious schools, transportation and easy access to the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown San Francisco.

This immaculate Italianate villa of approximately 16,000 square feet has been completely renovated using the finest materials and craftsmanship to create the ultimate modern amenities and luxury living, and still retains the elegance and beauty of the classic era. It was the San Francisco Decorator Showcase in 2008.

For more detailed information, please visit: SanFranciscoShowcase2008.com

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com

Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

Haute Living MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Olivia Hsu Decker Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Teresa Rodriguez Teresa@HauteLivingSF.com ART DIRECTOR Krisha Chhaganlal Krisha@HauteLivingSF.com COPY EDITOR Karen M. Smith henhousepublishing@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Becca Hensley, Charlene Peters, Erin Hunt Moore, Fran Endicott Miller, Gail Goldberg, Jennifer Boden, Jennifer Raiser, Laurie Jo Miller Farr, Maria Castellucci, Sharon Seto and Steph Keay LUXURY AUTOS CONTRIBUTOR Tim Lappen TL@JMBM.com WINE COUNTRY AMBASSADOR Kelly E. Carter Kelly@KellyeCarter.com HEALTH AND WELLNESS AMBASSADOR Lydia Graham LIFE COACH AMBASSADOR Nina Clark Ericson, Ph.D. ninacericson@att.net SUBSCRIPTION AND DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES Olivia Hsu Decker Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com AD SALES REPRESENTATIVE Cindy Pelland Cindy.Pelland@HauteLivingSF.com ACCOUNTING Sarah Trissel St.bayarea@gmail.com LEGAL Carl Lippenberger Carl@lippenbergerlaw.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF ASPEN CVB

Haute Living San Francisco Visit us at www.HauteLivingSF.com

Haute Travel: Luxe ski resorts

TABLE of CONTENTS

Cover story: No pandemic can silence the arts

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PUBLISHERS’ LETTER EDITOR’S LETTER HAUTE SHOPPING

12

Find meaningful gifts—locally!

18

Discuss favoriate holiday food with chefs Michael Mina and Liz Curtis

HAUTE KITCHEN

HAUTE DRINKS

26

These wine labels are runway ready

30

Add bubbles to boost festivity

PROFILES 56

Meet Dr. Dino, society’s renowned plastic surgeon

62

Remember Ann Getty, designer, publisher, and philanthropist extraordinaire

66

Joanne Weir, Leslie Sbrocco, and Dominique Crenn show us how to pivot to sustain success

72

Unique and fabulous: see what these fashion iconoclasts are wearing

HAUTE ART 78

HAUTE DINING 28

SF dining icons showcase longevity and adaptability

HAUTE BEAUTY 82

HAUTE TRAVEL 40

Take a break from stress at these luxe ski resorts

Savor the luxury of Snow Beef at Ittoryu GOZU

HAUTE FASHION 48

Charleston Pierce honors Black lives via fashion and photography

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Dark Garden Corsetry makes beauty a cinch

COVID-19 and lockdowns can’t stop SF and Bay Area musicians from playing and inspiring listeners around the world

HAUTE WELLNESS 96

Paws Up Resort: Here’s where the term “glamping” originated

Haute Living, San Francisco.

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Original art makes these wine labels runway-ready

Nourish your scalp and hair with clear, pure, toxin-free products from Innersense

COVER STORY 86

HAUTE CUISINE 44

Black jeweler Lauren Harwell Godfrey creates gem-studded beauty

www.HauteLivingSF.com

Two locally renwoned chefs share their favorite family holiday dishes

Meet Dr. Dino, society’s plastic surgeon

Haute Residence Rocky Point

Enjoy snow and pampering at Colorado’s luxury ski resorts

Dark Garden Corsetry

HAUTE RESIDENCE 100 Ocean views? Check. Acreage? Check. Home and business? Check!

HAUTE AUTO

104 Which do you prefer: the growl of an American classic or the quiet

power of a hybrid?

HAUTE AMBASSADOR 108 Kelly expresses gratitude for the wisdom in keeping Napa Valley rural.

110 Lydia advises on the appreciation of time 112 Nina teaches how to handle anger

HAUTE SEAT 114 Meet Joy Sterling of Iron Horse Vineyards

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Editor-in-Chief ’s LETTER

PHOTO CREDIT: ©VINCENT GOTTI, HAIR AND MAKE UP BY NELLIE MUGANDA

TERESA RODRIGUEZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Haute Living San Francisco Teresa@HauteLivingSF.com www.HauteLivingSF.com

CHARLES DICKENS’ TIMELESS WORDS FLAWLESSLY EXEMPLIFY 2020: “It was the worst of times, it was the best of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness ...” We all stepped into 2020 with an incredible sense of optimism and confidence. But the onslaught of tragedies swiftly drowned that buoyancy. From COVID-19 to the preventable deaths of too many Black lives, our country was forced to stop in its tracks, slow down, and step up with accountability. We wore masks, we supported our Black brothers and sisters, and we found grace in the chaos.

While this year can be not-so-poetically summed up as a bonfire of soiled diapers, it has taught us a great deal about being human. So many of us took the time to find strength and hope amid the despair and turmoil. We reconnected with friends, we severed toxic relationships, and we found time to meditate and be with our kids. Everyone with whom I have talked said the same thing: “This was a tough year, but I learned so much about myself and the priorities in my life.” Within the many colorful pages of our magazine, we hope you have found inspiration in our uplifting profiles, discovered unique destinations, and reconnected to a part of yourself that yearns for beauty and comfort.

This issue is our last in 2020. We wanted to end the year with stories and features that cheer you up, give you hope, and delight you. Read about the good works and remarkable world of Charleston Pierce and his commitment to promoting diversity and BLM through fashion. Be inspired by how Joanne Weir, Leslie Sbrocco, and Chef Dominique Crenn have successfully navigated the challenges in today’s hospitality industry. Meet Dr. Dino, one of San Francisco’s top plastic surgeons, and learn about his extraordinary career and passionate drive to reveal the beauty in all of us.

We all miss the incredible events and galas that our fair city hosted so well.

So, to whet your palette for the arts, dive into our cover story, “Performing Arts Postponed but Not Silenced,” which highlights the many innovative programs sponsored by San Francisco Symphony, the San Francisco Opera, and Napa Valley Festival, all of which are bringing us uplifting entertainment and music during this awful pandemic.

Creating, managing, producing, and editing a magazine of this magnitude can only be done with an outstanding team of writers working alongside our art director, Krisha Chhaganlal, and copy editor, Karen Smith. I so am fortunate to work with such a stellar team, and we all wish you a wonderful holiday season and good cheers.

To the great expectations of 2021,

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San Francisco’s CONTRIBUTORS JENNIFER RAISER

BECCA HENSLEY

MARIA CASTELLUCCI

ERIN HUNT MOORE

Jennifer Raiser walks between the worlds of strategy and storytelling.

Along with being a mom, she is the bestselling author of five books, including Burning Man: Art on Fire, In the Spirit of Napa Valley, and The Art of Being Bill Murray. She works in marketing consulting and is an avid nonprofit board junkie. Her BA in English literature and MBA, both from Harvard University, are her prerequisite for writing about swell parties. You can find her at the hottest parties in San Francisco or on the Playa at Burning Man.

Entrepreneur, first generation American, and mother of three children, Maria Castelucci earned her BA in finance in 2001 from Dominican University on a tennis scholarship. She later studied at New York University and the London School of Economics. Maria took a strong interest in global affairs, which led her to become an ambassador for nonprofit foundation Roots of Peace. In 2012 with her siblings, Maria founded Castellucci Napa Family, a luxury wine and real estate brand that has expanded into the boutique hotel business. She now runs two inns, a wine label, and a family real estate development company.

SHARON SETO

A graduate of Golden Gate University and serial entrepreneur, Sharon loves the excitement and creativity of the business world and its people.

Her addiction to business ventures began with the acquisition of the El Cid Building, site of the famous SF Jazz Mural. She has served as a board member, fundraiser, and event chair for nonprofit organizations, including the SF Symphony Board of Governors, City College of San Francisco Foundation Board, Red Cross Board, National Colorectal Cancer Alliance Board, SF Ballet, and Dress for Success.

STEPH KEAY

Steph Keay is a Canadian freelance and technical writer currently based in Silicon Valley. After completing her Bachelor of Commerce in her hometown of Calgary, Alberta, she spent a summer in Croatia assisting The Yacht Week with events management on the islands of Hvar and Vis. Formerly in PR/marketing, she has also placed stories for a variety of clients—including tech leaders, international artists, and acclaimed actors and musicians—with ABC, FOX, NBC, San Francisco Chronicle, The Mercury News, American Way, and others. In her spare time, she enjoys adventuring, photography, and travel—all of which she documents on on her website, StephKeay.com.

JENNIFER BODEN

Jennifer is a freelance wine, food, and travel writer based in beautiful Sonoma County and has an extensive career in journalism. She contributes to KRON 4 News San Francisco, ABC 10News San Diego, and others. Prior to her writing career, she worked for several network affiliates as a news anchor and executive producer.

She earned a degree in broadcast journalism from Arizona State University’s prestigious Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

Laurie is a US/UK dual citizen and dedicated urbanite who loves walkable cities. As a San Francisco-based travel writer, she enjoys views from its crazy, signature hills following half-a-lifetime promoting her two hometowns—a couple of oh-so-flat places: New York City and London. Laurie’s byline is found in USA Today, CBS, Where Traveler, Haute Living, Epicure, Fast Company, Napa Valley Life Magazine, Food & Travel Magazine, Eater, Google Touring Bird, and other major media titles. She was awarded Yahoo Contributor of the Year and is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers.

A bon vivant journalist who believes travel is the ultimate celebration of life awash with lessons waiting to be learned, widely-published, Texas-based Becca Hensley is travel editor for New Orleans Bride and editor-at-large for Insider’s Guide to Spas. In a career spanning three decades, she has contributed to scores of magazines and newspapers, including Architectural Digest, Elite Traveler, Global Traveler, Conde Nast Traveler, and the Houston Chronicle. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @beccahensley.

A connector, storyteller, mission-driven communicator, and mom, Erin Hunt Moore lives with her family in beautiful Sonoma wine country.

A seasoned public relations and marketing consultant for over two decades, Erin has worked her PR magic for brands and companies on both US coasts and in Germany, where she studied international relations and languages. A veteran of the food and beverage world, she now focuses her energies on supporting women entrepreneurs and thought leaders, companies, and brands leading with a strong social impact ethos and non-profit organizations pioneering change in the world.

CHARLENE PETERS

Quenching a thirst for the exotic and delicious, Charlene Peters is a long-time syndicated travel journalist who creatively writes about picturesque and palatable journeys. She loves to share luxurious travel and food experiences, as well as a recipe to connect the destination’s distinguishable dish. This is a time when many people are unable to travel, but through her book, Travel Makes Me Hungry, anyone can connect with the world … through food!

When she isn’t traveling, Charlene resides in St. Helena in the Napa Valley.

FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

Fran Endicott Miller is a luxury-focused freelance feature writer for a variety of lifestyle publications and websites, editor-at-large for JustLuxe.com, Forbes Travel Guide inspector, and California editor for luxury travel concierge service Essentialist. Prior, she held positions in the fields of politics, television, and professional sports. She is proud to have established the Golden State Warriors’ first community relations department and programs. She’s known for thoughtful and thorough coverage and for the quality of her writing. When not traveling, she can be found walking her Northern California neighborhood with her beloved golden retrievers, Reggie and Nate. Follow her adventures on Instagram @frandicott.

GAIL GOLDBERG

Gail managed to turn her mad love for fashion, shopping, and travel into a successful writing career. A few of the names on her CV include San Francisco Chronicle, 7x7, The Bold Italic, Time Out SF, and Fashion Incubator San Francisco. Ever since hightailing it to SF from the East Coast 20-plus years ago, she’s been covering the style scene in her adopted city. Still, the New York native will never give up her 917 cell—it makes her feel bicoastal. In her spare time, Gail works on a book of humorous personal essays, which she vows will be published one day.

We are very fortunate to have such a prestigious list of writers.

Each has succeeded in their respective careers as bestselling authors, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and on-air talent. We are honored and humbled by their commitment to creating content that is relevant, timely, and really fun to read!

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BY GAIL GOLDBERG

HauteSHOPPING

GIVE GOOD (HOLIDAY) GIFTS And make them local THE HOLIDAYS ARE GOING TO BE DIFFERENT THIS YEAR. RATHER than jetting off to see relatives across the country or chillaxing on an exotic beach vacay, most of us will be hunkering down at home with our families and COVID-19 bubble buddies. Still, we can celebrate the spirit of the season, swig eggnog (or green juice), make cookies, and exchange gifts with loved ones. In keeping with 2020's shelter-in-place theme, all our local holiday picks lean cozy, but elevated. Cheers to that!

HOT WHEELS

Bluejay Bikes What's perfect for that special person who is kind to the planet and looking for another way to zoom? The Premiere Edition Bluejay Bike. The elevated and customizable e-bike looks old school, but it's built with the latest tech (five levels of pedal assist) and safety features.

It's available in two sizes and five vintage-y colors— plus there are really cool accessories (hi, Nantucket basket). Company founder Jen Cohen Bogan says, "Giving the bike is like giving the feeling of freedom—the pure joy of flight." / $2,995; $150 for front basket; $75 for Nantucket Basket, bluejaybikes.com 12

L-O-V-E MATCH

Love Is Project For her, for him, for anyone you “heart,” the Love Bracelet will leave no doubt about your feelings. Handmade by women artisans in Kenya, this beaded beauty fits all wrists thanks to the pull-tie closure, while the red beads add a pop of happy to every outfit.

Plus, each bracelet comes in a giftable cloth pouch. Bay-based Love Is Project is the baby of Chrissie Lam, who started the company five years ago when she was inspired to help provide fair wages and regular work for women artisans around the globe.

Sales of the bestselling piece help provide sustainable livelihoods for Maasai women and their families. / $30, loveisproject.com

PHOTO CREDITS: TK

THE CASE FOR BASKETS

Saffron + Poe Globetrotters, wanderlusters, and collectors will be touched when gifted with a stack of chic, hand-woven baskets. Saffron + Poe offers plenty of options that check the form, function, and fabulous boxes. Our favorites: the set of three Ilala Palm Wall Baskets, handcrafted by a women's collective in Zimbabwe and featuring traditional geometric motifs in a neutral color palette.

They're perfect clustered on a wall or sitting on a shelf. We also dig the hand-beaded Bali Baskets which make stylish storage containers. They come in five sizes and are made using sustainable bamboo and seed beads to form their diamond designs. / Ilala Palm Baskets, $275 set of three; Bali Baskets, $30–$70 each (sold individually), saffronandpoe.com, 11 Locust Ave. (Mill Valley)

COMFORT AND JOY

Basil Racuk Merry-making guaranteed! Any lovely who unwraps this cotton sweatshirt dress will want to slip into it, pronto!

Exactly why it's designer and San Francisco storeowner Basil Racuk's pick: "The cocoon dress is a perfect holiday gift, designed for maximum comfort, yet stylish enough to feel good on the street." It has a roomy fit and comes in several hues—and those big pockets? Swoon. / $250, basilracuk. com, 3980 24th St. (Noe Valley)

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HauteSHOPPING TWINKLE, TWINKLE

Harwell Godfrey You can never go wrong with diamonds. And Harwell Godfrey's letter pendants are serious charmers. Made to order, the initials are crafted of 18k yellow gold, enamel, and diamonds. "A personalized gift is always a perfect way to treat yourself or a loved one this holiday season—my version has knife-edge detailing and little inserts of the colored enamel of your choice," says designer Lauren Harwell Godfrey. Letters come in two sizes and ship in six to eight weeks. / $1,390 (small), $2,050 (large), harwellgodfrey.com

THE CAT'S MEOW

Freda Salvador Once the, ahem, cat's out of the bag— leopard or cheetah—your Freda girl will be wearing these James Slippers on repeat.

It's the very first house slipper for the cult-fave San Francisco brand, featuring a natural shearling lining, padded suede sole, and 100% haircalf leather in black and camel cheetah print or black and white leopard print. They look super-cute with pajamas, jeans, and sweats. Bonus points: $10 from each sale goes to a nonprofit foundation providing scholarships for underprivileged teenagers in El Salvador where the slippers are crafted.

They come in small, medium, and large. / $150, fredasalvador.com, 2416 Fillmore St. (Pacific Heights)

GOOD TO GLOW

Saint Jane Beauty Clean beauty lovers and anyone craving radiant skin will blush with delight upon receiving Saint Jane's Luxury Beauty Serum. The rich and silky CBD elixir—made of 100 percent organic ingredients (including 500 mg of full-spectrum CBD per bottle)—is chock-full of omegas, antioxidants, and botanicals. The result for all skin types: a calm, balanced, and hydrated visage. Did we mention the ridiculously stunning and sophisticated black and gold bottle in which it comes? So many good (and glowy) reasons it's the hero product of the Marin brand. / $125, saintjanebeauty.com

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HauteSHOPPING DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW

Allbirds "I already have too many pairs of kicks," said no guy ever. Indeed, Allbirds' new take on the classic cup-sole shoe will make the holidays way merrier for lucky fellas. The Wool Piper replaces the leather typical of the silhouette with sustainable materials.

The upper is made of breathable, moisture-wicking Merino wool, and the laces are crafted of recycled water bottles. Choose from black, white, and gray shades. Translation: you can't go wrong. As with all shoes from the San Francisco label (and B Corp), the newbies are ethically made, machine washable, and ready to rumble, or couch potato. / $95, allbirds.com, 57 Hotaling Place (Jackson Square)

SNUGGLY STRIPES

Coyuchi Hello, handsome! Coyuchi's Mariposa Blanket will absolutely make spirits brighter and couches cozier.

Inspired by a beloved vintage rug, it's made of supersoft organic cotton and features all the right stripes.

The bone, aqua, and gray color options are all divinely neutral, never boring. Comes in king, full/queen, and throw sizes. Put a bow on it ‌ wait for thank-you smooches. / $148–$298, coyuchi.com, 1101 State Route One, Suite 201 (Point Reyes Station)

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UNIFORM APPEAL

Evan Kinori Gifting a men's garment from buzzy Hayes Valley designer and oneman-show Evan Kinori is akin to giving a piece of art. Each workwearinspired chore jacket, field shirt, or waxed-cotton anorak is made in small batches and hand-numbered. When a piece is gone, it's gone. Of course, it's all part of the Kinori appeal. Our pick for the holiday: the elevated hooded sweatshirt, crafted of garment-dyed organic cotton and hemp fleece. It has a relaxed fit, dropped shoulder, and ribbed cuffs and hem. Cozy-cool is an understatement. / $195, evankinori.com, 380 Ivy St. (Hayes Valley)

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BY SHARON SETO

HauteKITCHEN

IN CONVERSATION WITH SHARON SETO HOLLY DAZE! IN MIDST OF A GLOBAL PANDEMIC, WINTER HOLIDAYS can be quite confusing. Like a Jamba Juice blender, my mind used to whirl from the dizzying amounts of holiday events to choose from, pre-COVID. This winter will pose a different kind of crazy. Restaurant closures, canceled events, and limited store hours add to holiday confusion. Ugh! But one thing is certain: we can all create fun lifetime memories while sheltering in place in the comfort of our homes. The pandemic gives us opportunities to prioritize and festively share quality time with loved ones. So … don’t hold back! Turn the music high! Wear something silly or fancy! Break out the board games! In Haute Kitchen we have two amazing talents gifting us with their delightful stories and tasty recipes for your holiday table. I’ll be making their dishes with my light-up bling, sipping hot peppermint chocolate, and wishing you a healthy, safe, and joyous holiday. See you in our kitchen next year! Enjoy!

CHEF MICHAEL MINA

Chef Michael Mina really needs no introduction. The mere mention of his name automatically invokes a dreamy drool. He is an internationally acclaimed Michelin star chef, cookbook author, and much more. As a foodie, I’m so glad Chef Mina decided to make SF his home, even after experiencing the harrowing 1989 earthquake two days into his move here.

Chef Mina’s creativity for each dish and innovative dining concepts which helped establish San Francisco’s reputation as a world-class food destination. With more than 40 restaurants dotting the globe, Chef Mina is the founder of the MINA Group which creates, in his words, “the most craveable culinary experiences” for all his guests. Cooking for presidents and famous stars on a regular basis, he is also happy at home watching the 49ers with his family. Michael Mina was born in Cairo, Egypt and raised in Eastern Washington where he was inspired by his mom in the kitchen.

Hay smoked prime rib

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Q&A HAUTE LIVING X MICHAEL MINA

Chef Michael Mina

“As time goes on, I don't necessarily feel like I'm getting any older, I'm just more balanced.” –Michael Mina

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINA GROUP

Chef Michael Mina at work

HL: Growing up, we blended both Eastern and Western ways for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mom made special dishes in our house that became “family tradition” during these holidays. Her amazing hoisin turkey stuffed with sticky rice is what I now make for my own family. What childhood dish(es) bring(s) you back “home?”

MM: In my family, we mostly stick with the traditional Thanksgiving dishes. But given my Egyptian heritage, one thing we do prepare is my mom’s koshary recipe. It’s one of the comfort foods that I grew up with, and during the holidays, I really enjoy this as a side dish to the traditional turkey.

HL: Everyone has a funny or endearing holiday story. Let's hear one from you.

MM: Well, one year when my youngest was about three years old, we decided to celebrate Christmas with a surf and turf dinner. I brought steaks and lobsters home from the restaurant and had some live lobsters stashed in the fridge. Let’s just say, thank God there were rubber bands around the lobsters’ claws, because Anthony decided he was going to take the lobsters out for a walk! He tied a string around one’s neck and was walking the lobster all around the house. He didn’t even let us eat that lobster that night!

HL: Hahahaha! The lobster story with your son is funny. Shelterin-place can be quite challenging for the holidays because Christmas and Thanksgiving usually mean great gatherings of people and food. For COVID-19, what are your plans to make these occasions special? How? MM: This has been a challenging year, but I feel, if anything, we really crave time with our families. It’s amazing how great technology can be during these times. We can still virtually spend time together and feel as if we’re almost in the same place together. One thing that families could do is to do a virtual cocktail hour together. Everyone would send a cocktail recipe to each other in advance, so everyone could even be drinking the same cocktail with one another.

HL: You’ve cooked for U.S. presidents. Who? Which president is the most finicky?

MM: I’ve cooked for many U.S. presidents. One of the most memorable times was for President Bill Clinton. Shortly after he left office, he came into Nob Hill in Las Vegas and experienced our tasting menu. He was so interested in how every single dish was made, so curious about the menu, cooking techniques, and everything! He even came into the kitchen and spent some time with me and my team.

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HauteKITCHEN HL: You have around 40 restaurants. That’s a lot to handle. What do you like and what do you do when you’re off?

MM: Well, my team and I have 40 restaurants—I certainly don’t manage them all by myself! But I feel so blessed to be working with so many people who are friends and now family to me. Some people think you shouldn’t mix business with pleasure, but I disagree. Our team does an incredible job working together, but we also genuinely enjoy each other’s company. Additionally, I’m a huge sports fan. I watch the games, participate in fantasy football—all of it! What’s fun is that even my fantasy football league is with many of the members of our team. There’s some trash talk between team members, but it’s all for fun.

HL: If you had a last meal on earth, what would you eat?

MM: That’s a tough one, but I think ultimately it would be Japanese food. I would want Chef Ken Tominaga’s special bowl made with toro, caviar, sea urchin, and ponzu.

HL: Tell me something about yourself that no one else knows … a secret!

MM: When I was younger, I use to race motocross dirt bikes! I still love to ride them.

HAY SMOKED PRIME RIB WITH BACON WRAPPED POTATOES AND CREAMED SPINACH

Ingredients • 32 oz côte de boeuf or cowboy steak (Speak to your friendly local butcher.)

• Grape seed oil Salt Crust • 2 cups hay, 1 liter packed • 1-2 cups egg whites • 8 cups kosher salt Vinaigrette • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce • ¼ cup shallots, minced • Salt and pepper Creamed Spinach • 2 cups blanched fresh spinach or frozen spinach, squeezed dry • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 2 tablespoons minced shallot • ½ cup heavy cream • 4 tablespoons Boursin® cheese • Pinch fresh nutmeg • Sea salt and fresh pepper to taste Bacon Wrapped Potatoes • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 2 tablespoons chives, chopped • 8 fingerling potatoes, par-cooked • 4 bacon strips, cut in half 20

Instructions 1. Combine salt and egg whites and stir to combine. You are looking for the texture of wet sand.

2. Heat a cast iron pan on high heat and add enough grapeseed oil to coat the bottom.

Season the meat and sear on all sides. Remove and place on a rack.

3. Make the vinaigrette in the same pan: Add olive oil to the pan and add the shallots. Sweat the shallots until translucent, then add the Worcestershire sauce and lime juice. Bring to a simmer. Season with salt and plenty of pepper.

4. Heat oven to 425 ° F. Place a ½-inch layer of salt crust in the bottom of a roasting pan.

Place half the hay on top of the salt crust in the roasting pan and ignite. After 10 seconds, extinguish the flame and place the seared meat on top. Place the other half of the hay on top the steak. Top with the salt mix and pack well. Insert a probe thermometer through the salt into the center of the meat prior to roasting to temp the meat. If you don’t have a probe thermometer, just poke a regular thermometer through to create the hole you will need to test the temperature. You won’t be able to get a thermometer through the crust once it hardens.

5. Place the meat into the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 425° F to set the crust. Lower the heat to 325° F and cook until the meat reaches an internal temp of 120̊ F. Remove from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes.

6. While the meat is roasting, get your creamed spinach going. Put the butter into a small saucepot, add shallots and garlic clove, then sweat until shallots are translucent. Add heavy cream and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer and reduce by half. Add spinach and Boursin® cheese and heat gently. Season with sea salt and fresh pepper.

7. Wrap par-cooked fingerling potatoes tightly with half strips of bacon and skewer to secure the bacon. Press the wrapped potatoes to flatten them. Season with salt and pepper and sear in the pan on both sides until the potatoes are golden brown and delicious, the bacon is rendered and crispy, and they are piping hot.

8. Tableside, cut the meat out of the crust, return to the kitchen to slice and plate.

9. Serve with the creamed spinach and bacon wrapped potatoes. Each côte de beouf serves two people.

Koshary and matbucha are classic Egyptian comfort foods and, combined, make a great dish that can serve as the center of the meal with the addition of a beautiful, farmers-marketinspired vegetable side and a simple protein like a harissa broiled chicken or grilled rack of lamb.

There’s a lot going on here, but. thankfully, most of it can be done ahead of time and brought together right before you are ready to serve it.

KOSHARY AND MATBUCHA

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINA GROUP

Rice Ingredients • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil • 2 cups long grain rice • 3 cups water • 1 teaspoon sea salt • Pinch of fresh ground pepper • Oil Instructions 1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add rice and stir gently until rice smells fragrant and is coated with oil.

3. Add 3 cups water, pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.

4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.

5. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, then turn off the flame and leave on the stovetop for an additional 15 minutes.

The rice will be tender, and all the liquid will be absorbed.

Lentils Ingredients • 1 cup lentils, rinsed and soaked in water in water for 1 hour • ½ teaspoon sea salt

• Pinch freshly ground pepper • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 1 bay leaf

Instructions 1. Toast dry spices in a dry saucepan until fragrant and aromatic.

2. Add extra virgin olive oil and infuse with spices.

3. Add tomato paste and stir well to incorporate.

4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly and scraping the bottom of the pan to cook out the raw flavor of the paste. Don’t skip this step, as it is the foundation of deep flavor.

5. Add chopped tomatoes, thyme, sea salt, and bay leaf and bring to a simmer.

6. Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 to 30 minutes.

7. Top with crispy fried onions or shallots for garnish.

Instructions 1. Rinse then soak the lentils in warm water for one hour.

2. Add 2 cups of water to a saucepan 3. Add the lentils, sea salt, pepper, garlic clove, and a bay leaf.

4. Bring to a simmer. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 to 20 minutes until lentils are tender.

Sautéed Onions and Instructions to finish the dish • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil • 4 sweet onions, sliced thin • 2 garlic cloves, sliced thin • ½ teaspoon sea salt • Pinch freshly ground pepper • Oil • Cilantro for garnishing dish.

Matbucha Ingredients • 1 teaspoon ground cumin seed • 1 teaspoon ground coriander seed • 1 teaspoon ground Urfa biber or ancho • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1 teaspoon pimentón de la Vera, hot • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil • 1 box 500g Pomì chopped tomatoes • ½ cup tomato paste • 1 teaspoon sea salt • 1 bay leaf • 1 sprig fresh thyme • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro • 2 tablespoons crispy fried onions or shallots

Instructions 1. Heat large frying pan over medium heat.

Add oil.

2. Add extra virgin olive oil then onions and cook on medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until the onions are browned.

3. Add garlic, sea salt, and pepper and cook for another minute, stirring to ensure even distribution and complete cooking.

4. Add cooked lentils and rice. Toss well to fully combine. Cook until mixture is piping hot.

5. Transfer to serving bowl and spoon matbucha over the top.

6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve.

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HauteKITCHEN

Liz Curtis

LIZ CURTIS

Liz Curtis, a Bay Area native, is widely recognized as the pioneer of nationwide event rentals. After earning her JD and passing the bar, Liz fast-tracked into corporate litigation. While law was stimulating for this brainy young lady, Liz knew that it did not have her heart. Her true love? Entertaining!

Without professional experience in this new endeavor and with some calculated risk, a lot of homework, and true grit, Liz followed her heart. In 2013, Liz took the leap and founded Table + Teaspoon which became a highly successful catering, events, and design firm with service throughout California. In 2016, T+T relaunched as an e-commerce table setting rental service, with shipping available across the country. The company has received accolades from Martha Stewart, New York Times, Town & Country, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Real Simple, Forbes, Today Show, the Washington Post, and many more.

In the wake of the pandemic, Liz identified the need to scale quickly in order to service the rise of at-home parties. She sought out Michael Seramin, 22

owner of Abbey Party Rents San Francisco, and the pair saw an opportunity for growth and innovation in the events industry. Merging their businesses, Liz now serves as CEO of the brands under the newly formed Fulcrum Group since May 2020. Most recently, Fulcrum Group added a real estate arm to its portfolio with an exclusive wedding and event venue offering. She is excited to continue disrupting the events industry with her first-in-class team at Fulcrum.

“What if I fall? … Oh, but my darling, what if you fly?” –Erin Hanson, Australian poet

Q&A

PHOTO CREDIT: ©ELLIAN RAFFOUL

HAUTE LIVING X LIZ CURTIS HL: You attended prestigious Hastings Law School in Berkley, trained as a litigator, and worked at Quinn Emanuel Law Firm, which is no joke.

When was your "ah-ha" moment and why change gears?

LC: My plan in life was never to be a lawyer. I loved law school and my time clerking for a federal judge, but I didn’t love being a lawyer. Quinn was my last firm, where I worked on the Apple v. Samsung mobile patent litigation. I realized that if a case that sexy wasn’t fulfilling, then the law was likely not a long-term career option for me. Growing up, I watched my father build satellites for NASA, which went to Mars and the sun, and my mother risked everything to pursue her professional dreams. I craved these qualities in my own life: innovation, passion, fearlessness.

And that just wasn’t corporate litigation for me, so I made the bold and somewhat reckless decision to leave the law and chase my passion: entertaining.

HL: Obviously, you’re a smart cookie and businesswoman. What inspired you to start Table + Teaspoon?

LC: Everything changed the summer I spent studying at home for the California Bar Exam in 2009. Going stir crazy and craving comfort food, I turned on the Food Network. After that experience, the call of the kitchen sounded fiercely. I started posting my creations on Facebook via my Blackberry (eek!), and similar, culinarily challenged friends asked me to start a blog that made seemingly difficult recipes easy, which is how Table + Teaspoon the blog was born in 2010. Before leaving law, I spent three years hosting meticulously decorated, multiple-course dinner parties for 12 friends every 10 days in my studio apartment’s dining room until I was confident that my skill set was on a professional level. Lacking the option for interior design and event planning, I offered my services at cost or insanely reduced rates (think $1/hour) while I was learning the business. I didn’t rely solely on trial and error; I also leaned on my friends for guidance. Their tips were invaluable, and I undoubtedly wouldn’t be where I am today without their support. With this new idea in mind, I used my entire savings and a loan from my family to bootstrap the vision for a “rent-the-table” business model. I launched in California in 2016, then nationwide a year later. I haven’t looked back since!

HL: While celebrating a birthday fête at my home, I took out kitchen utensils in place of microphones and we sang with renowned vocalist Paula West, creating the Kitchen Utensil Singers group. Your powerful voice blew us away! Where did that come from?

LC: What a ridiculously fun night that was! In fact, it was my last dinner party, pre-pandemic. Anyone who knows me well will tell you that I’m a shameless karaoke aficionado. I’ve had more birthdays at Silver Cloud and The Mint than I can remember. Singing with friends in crowded bars is something I miss terribly. Before karaoke, my vocal outlet came in the form of musical theater growing up. The last play that I was in before college was Gypsy. I played Dainty June, which required singing and dancing in ringlet curls and a hoop skirt with a cow. The song is still stuck in my head 20 years later.

Liz Curtis and friends

HL: With shelter-in-place, it's a challenge to shop for decorations. Any pointers for creatively making a beautiful holiday tablescape with what we have at home?

LC: Employing a theme for your holiday dinner can be as straightforward as a color palette. You may want to up the ante with a more autumnal aesthetic, but make sure you don’t go so overboard that guests feel crowded or your table looks forced. For example, just because it’s Thanksgiving doesn’t mean that you’re required to run out and buy pumpkins, corn cobs, pilgrim hats, and a new orange tablecloth. An elegant mix of tans and browns with fresh greenery from your garden can be just as effective. Challenge yourself to think outside the box and simplify your vision by including things that you already love on your table. Sliced agate, bronze stars, boxwood topiaries—whatever you decorate your home with can double as tablescape fodder. The best part of using this method is that your table reflects your personality, which your guests will instantly recognize.

HL: Tell me, what's on your menu for Thanksgiving and Christmas? Who are the beneficiaries?

LC: Sadly, the holidays will look very different this year. Barring a vaccine release in the next couple of months, I’ll be missing most of my family on Thanksgiving and Christmas. While we may not have the option to celebrate together, that won’t stop me from pulling out my culinary chops to make a meal that I can drop off to loved ones. Here’s what I’ll be creating for each holiday. Thanksgiving: goat cheese popovers with herbed butter; truffled mushroom bisque; cornbread dressing with sage, apple, and caramelized onion; sweet potato puree; wilted spinach and prosciutto salad; champagne turkey with gravy; and, a pear galette for dessert with homemade cinnamon ice cream and a drizzle of honey.

Christmas: caviar with Pop Chips and Meyer lemon crème fraiche; French onion soup with pain au levain from Acme Bread; and hand-cut filet mignon with beurre rouge, crisped onion, and potato puree. For dessert, my mom will make her legendary bûche de Noël, a rich chocolate cake with marzipan filling, rolled to look like a log, and decorated with festive Christmas trinkets.

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HauteKITCHEN HL: I want some! What recipes are you sharing and why are they special?

LC: All of my recipes have accessibility at top of mind. Luxurious dishes don’t have to mean hours spent in the kitchen, slaving over every aspect of the meal. I’ve learned tricks over the years that empower anyone to make delicious recipes at home. The first recipe I’m sharing is inherently easy, English lemon pancakes. A cross between American pancakes and French crêpes, the base of this dish requires only a few ingredients: flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt. The pancakes are finished with a sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Both my father and boyfriend grew up in London, making these the ultimate comfort food for Christmas brunch.

The other two recipes each employ a major shortcut. Lobster pot pie is made much easier by using store-bought lobster bisque as a base and frozen puff pastry for the topping.

Pumpkin ravioli could take all day if you make the pasta from scratch, but by swapping wonton wrappers for traditional dough, you remove hours of tedious work. Both recipes are autumnal favorites that combat even the dreariest, fog-filled San Francisco days.

HL: I love those tips. Share a memorable holiday moment or story.

LC: Back in 2005, long before the idea of Table + Teaspoon sparked, I decided to attempt my first dinner party during the holidays. Roast salmon didn’t seem very difficult, and I knew that my mom would love it. I managed to find all the ingredients at the Marina Market and put the dish together using a recipe that couldn’t have been more straightforward. Once I put the fish in the oven, I decided to reward my efforts with a glass of Pinot by the Christmas tree.

Fast forward half an hour. I checked on the salmon and found the entire kitchen engulfed in smoke, the fish ablaze in the oven. Before I could do anything, alarms in the building were going off and I could hear the unmistakable sound of fire engines approaching. My family arrived just in time to witness the chaos.

Though hilarious now, I was devastated at the time. Hard to believe a mere four years later Table + Teaspoon would be born, and I would find myself hosting dinner parties (fire department-free) nearly every weekend.

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PUMPKIN RAVIOLI WITH SAGE BROWN BUTTER, LARDONS, AND FRESH FIG

Ingredients • Wonton wrappers (12 oz. pack) • Pure pumpkin puree (15 oz. can) • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs or panko • 1 teaspoon chopped shallot • Goat cheese (5 oz.)

• ¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano • 1 egg yolk • ¼ teaspoon each salt, pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon

• Canola oil (48 oz. or enough to make an inch in your pan) • 12 sage leaves • 1 stick butter • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice • Carton of figs • 8 ounces lardons or thick cut bacon sliced into matchsticks

Instructions 1. Combine pumpkin, breadcrumbs, shallot, goat cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano, egg yolk, and seasonings using beaters, a food processor, or emersion blender.

2. Place wonton wrappers on a cutting board and drop a tablespoon of pumpkin filling in the center of each wrapper.

3. Using your finger, outline each wrapper with a little water, then do the same on another wrapper with no filling on it. Place the empty wrapper over the one with filling and press together to seal tightly.

4. Fill a deep frying pan with one inch of canola oil and heat over medium-high.

5. Cook two ravioli at a time for 30 seconds per side, then drain on a paper towel-covered plate.

6. In a frying pan, heat lardons or bacon matchsticks until cooked all the way through and set aside 7. In a skillet, melt butter over low heat and swirl until nutty brown, then remove from heat and stir in sage leaves and lemon juice.

8. Plate a few ravioli, spoon the sage brown butter over them, top with sliced fig and lardons.

LOBSTER POT PIE

Ingredients • 4 lobster tails • 2 cups peas • 1 cup clamshell mushrooms • 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter • 2 cups lobster bisque • 2 sheets puff pastry • 1 egg whisked with 1 tablespoon water • ¼ cup dry sherry

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 400 ° F and remove puff pastry from freezer.

2. Crack lobster tails, remove meat, cut into 1-inch chunks 3. Remove stems from mushrooms and mince parsley.

4. Heat butter in skillet, sauté mushrooms for 5 minutes.

5. Add lobster, peas, parsley, and sherry. Sauté for 3 minutes.

6. Divide mixture into four 6-ounce ramekins.

7. Pour ½ cup of lobster bisque over each ramekin and stir to combine.

8. Remove paper from puff pastry and place on cutting board. Cut four circles 1/2-inch larger than the ramekins and place one on top of each ramekin 9. Puncture three holes in each puff pastry. Brush the egg and water mixture over the pastry and bake for 20 minutes.

ENGLISH LEMON PANCAKES

Ingredients • ¾ cup all-purpose flour • Pinch of salt

• 1 cup low-fat milk • 2 eggs • ½ tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions 1. Sift flour and salt into a bowl, then add milk and eggs. Whisk to combine.

2. Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat, then melt butter and spread around the pan.

3. Reduce heat to medium and pour ¼ cup of the batter into the pan.

4. Tilt the pan and swirl to help the batter spread evenly.

5. Cook each side for a couple of minutes until lightly browned.

6. Remove from pan and set aside. Cook the rest of the batter in single pancake increments.

7. Serve by drizzling lemon juice and spooning sugar over each pancake.

8. Optional: Add a spoonful of raspberry jam or lemon curd for a little extra luxe.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIZ CURTIS

T+T tablescape

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BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

HauteDRINKS

WOW FACTOR: TIMELESS WINE LABELS Defying Ubiquity NOT LONG AGO, IT WAS TABOO FOR A winery to venture away from mundane label design. You know, an image of the estate and vineyards plus a name—perhaps embossed or foil for a bit of oomph. Today, a refreshingly different approach considers design-forward artwork to metaphorically tell the story and create desired intrigue about what’s in the bottle.

Hand-crafted labels on small production wines are proudly crafted with love, each a work of art, a heartfelt expression to make an emotional connection by whispering quality, elegance, timelessness. Wine labels such as these can tell stories you won't see on a website, on a store shelf, or find on a Michelin-starred menu.

Haute Living curated this look at special labels with expert guidance from Angela Duerr, founder and proprietor of Cultured Vine, a Napa Valleybased luxury wine concierge and consultant to serious collectors.

DARK MATTER

First designed in 2005, Dark Matter was created by the Mondavi sisters as their thumbprint in wine.

Having grown up under the tutelage of their father, Marc, and grandfather, Peter Mondavi, Sr., the siblings were inspired to continue their family legacy to produce wine with the same passion and devotion as earlier generations. Dark Matter, a theory in itself not yet fully explained or understood, resonated with the sisters and their position in the industry—still working to earn their stripes. They worked with Australian designers to create a label reflecting vast possibilities and open skies, but wanted to incorporate an edgy twist, something different from the traditional Napa Valley norm. Alycia Mondavi recalls, ”You can only imagine in 2005 the comments we received … ’skulls represent death and poison,’ and ‘this design is the kiss of death,’ or ‘a label with a skull does not reflect high-end and luxury.’ These comments only fueled our decision to push the boundaries and run with a constellation of stars that form a skull, perfect for the name Dark Matter!” Gigi, youngest of the four sisters, added "Limitless" to the brand in 2011. “It was only fitting after our grandfather constantly challenged us and our father taught us there are no limits.”

Few know the story behind the Aloft label, re-designed in 2011 by Alycia Mondavi. She explains its hidden elements inspired by years of family farming. “Looking closely, one will find the head of a mountain lion and the outline of a snake embedded within the rolling hills and vineyard scene.” Why? “Cold Springs is tucked away in a forest of tall pines and manzanita trees, the perfect sanctuary for a mother mountain lion and her two cubs. Yet, it was within close proximity to a neighborhood. After many family discussions, these wild, majestic cougars had to be safely relocated to a new home due to their territorial behavior, but they still hold a special place in the Aloft story. In addition to the forested property, the rocky soil commonly found throughout Howell Mountain provides ideal drainage and desired homes for snakes. These snakes play a unique role in the family’s pledge to farm sustainably.”

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PHOTO CREDITS: ©SUZANNE BECKER BRONK

ALOFT

STONES WINE

It’s all in the details. The Hermès of wine, founder and proprietor Lawrence Fairchild takes a page from art and fashion to craft each of his Stones Wines bottles with labels that require an 18-month process. They’re individually handcrafted, illustrated, pressed in France, polished, and applied with precision.

Stones Wines are made available only five times per year and always sell out

in minutes. The first release, a 2017 Chardonnay, makes its debut this year.

From the Russian River Perrarus Block A3 Vineyard, this collection has white peach undertones and a perfectly balanced, long finish. An elegant masterpiece, it is priced at $175 and set in a hand-pressed bottle which can actually stand on its side.

PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF STONES WINES

PERRARUS 2

Lawrence Fairchild’s everevolving Perrarus (Latin: Very rare, exceptional) collection of large format Cabernet Sauvignon (price range from $3,500 to $8,500 per bottle) is presented in handblown glass bottles with designs that change each year. Never duplicated, each of the 350 bottles has a unique label to fit the year’s theme is are made available by lottery only in a distribution limited to one per member. This year, Perrarus 2, The Art Series features labels made of an original artwork from renowned French artist Cédric Bouteiller.

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HauteDRINKS TOR CHASING WINDMILLS

The label image was hand-sketched by proprietor Tor Kenward and the name “Chasing Windmills” is a reference to Don Quixote. Kenward says, “Grenache has kept us on our toes for a few decades. We’ve traveled all over California in search of gold like argonauts of old. Or, a better image...like Don Quixote, we’ve suited up, jumped on our steeds, set our eyesights to the

horizon, and charged. But, this is the end of the road for us as winemakers of Grenache. And we’re going out with a bang—straight collision with a windmill, spinning in a windstorm. Not the prettiest picture, but it has impact. A powerful and sophisticated Grenache, the 2017 Chasing Windmills combines a full spectrum of flavor and texture, seamlessly balanced and long-lived on the palate.”

FLINT KNOLL

TRES PERLAS

Luxury wine, luminous pearls, sensuous appeal, endless circles. The Renteria family chose to use three rings on a modern wine label to represent three pearls for a trio of daughters, three generations rooted in Napa Valley, three varietals in the collection: “Daughters” Rosé of Pinot Noir, an Estate Chardonnay and “Adonde” Cabernet Franc. Each bottle is hand-wrapped in tissue and sealed with colored wax to commemorate the vintage. Evocative, monochromatic labels prominently feature a raised, textured logo that feels good in the hand.

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PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) ©SUZANNE BECKER BRONK; (MIDDLE) COURTESY OF FLINT KNOLL; (BOTTOM IMAGES) COURTESY OF RENTARIA FAMILY

“The inspiration for the Flint Knoll labels originates from the filigree patterns used on some of the most prestigious European shotguns by Westley Richards, a bespoke British manufacturer since 1812,” explains Aaron Michaels, proprietor and vintner. “Every label is a hand-drawn, original work of art to showcase the beautiful wines we make. We construct a bronze die for each label and the labels are pressed one at time on an old German printing press from the 1960s. Each label is hand-applied and tissue-wrapped for protection during shipping to the collector’s cellar.”

OVID LOC. CIT.

SIRE ESTATE WINES

PHOTO CREDITS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) ©GAUGE BRANDING; COURTESY OF OVID; COURTESY OF OVID; ©TREVOR MANSFIELD

“So it is with fine wine, the best only come from top pedigree grapes (clones) with proper lineage, the heartiest rootstock, and the richest terroir in Napa Valley.” The mission of Sire is to source only the finest pedigree vineyards for winemaking, specifically Cabernet vineyards. Proprietor Thomas Buck explains, “We patiently wait for just the right thoroughbred vineyard sites to work with … to produce that best-of-show wine.

Each vintage of Sire is a purebred—an uninhibited expression of the vineyard site’s terroir. Like all things royal, Sire is both refined yet decadent— well structured and balanced, with just a touch of hedonism.”

CAMI VINEYARDS

A tendril sweeps the front of the CAMi label symbolizing what remains from the past, the wine behind it, the spirit of a twig. Winemaker Tom Shelton’s son, Trevor Mansfield, created the design concept—photography plus poetry— to commemorate the life of a poet, philosopher, wine advocate, and a father. Mansfield explains, “Robert Frost was his favorite poet and the poem ‘October’ reminded me of my final days with my father. Each poem that appears on a label is meant to be incorporated into a toast, as Tom often placed poetry at the perfect moments, especially in his toasts.”

Madeleine Corson, the graphic designer who creates fine wine labels for some of Napa Valley’s family-owned wineries, says OVID’s classical choice is “inspired by the founders’ love of Roman history, Latin translations, and the writings of the canonical poet Ovid. Influenced by their library of antiquarian books, Loc. Cit. is letterpress printed on a natural, deckle-edged sheet, and its wine story typeset in an eclectic style with bibliographic footnotes. Ovid’s poetry translations trim the bottle top in a colorful band, an accent of color on this exceedingly limited production wine.”

EXPERIMENT

The bottles boast labels that can take a baby boomer straight back to eighth grade chemistry. “Curiosity and continuous learning is the ethos at OVID, as their team pursues individual blending experiments to expand collective winemaking knowledge and produce a new ‘experimental’ blend each year. Tagged with a grommet and handwritten wine notes, the Experiment label conveys an enology lab ambience, listing each vintage’s new code name and grape blend. The letterpressed label and tactile finishing details flag the series’ exclusively small production,” explains designer Corson. Winemaker Austin Peterson adds, “At OVID Napa Valley, there’s a commitment to the idea and practice of experimentation in many facets of grape growing and winemaking. More than just an indulgence of our curiosity, our commitment to experimentation enriches our understanding of our vineyard. Experiment wines are the result of this process. Each vintage, we offer small amounts of different wines that are of special interest to us.”

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HauteDRINKS

SPARKLING SONOMA: BUBBLES FROM YOUR BACKYARD Elevate your celebrations with these local bottles While sparkling wine lovers agree that the perfect time for bubbles is … well … any time, sparkling wine pairs perfectly with the holiday season. Although this holiday season may look a little different than we’re used to, with smaller dinners, more intimate soirees, and more take-out and home cooking, there isn’t a better time for sparkling! In this year of challenges, consider adding locally crafted bottles to your dinner menu and gift list, giving our local wineries a needed lift after recent fires and difficult pandemic months. If a day or weekend trip to wine country is on your holiday itinerary, be sure to make reservations in advance to ensure properties are open and you understand their current reservation policies.

We’ve selected a number of sparkling wines to highlight from our neighbors up north in Sonoma County, established icons to newcomers, and smaller, interesting labels. All are available for online purchase and direct shipping, which is helpful in these times!

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Domaine Carneros iconic château

Domaine Carneros

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DOMAINE CARNEROS

BY ERIN HUNT MOORE

The CLASSICS DOMAINE CARNEROS

Although Domaine Carneros officially has a Napa address, the Carneros AVA stretches across both Sonoma and Napa. Domaine Carneros provides a lovely stop between the two. Founded by the noble family behind Champagne Taittinger, it is one of the most stunning, elegant estates in the region with its French-inspired château, glass-walled Jardin d'Hiver, expansive terrace, and sweeping valley views. Domaine Carneros produces traditional method sparkling and still wines from almost exclusively estate grown Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.

2013 Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs ($120) Gorgeously crafted from 100 percent Chardonnay, this is that very special bottle for a gift or celebration. French for “the dream,” Le Rêve is Domaine Carneros’ respected tête de cuvée, the winery’s finest sparkling wine and frequently named America’s Best Sparkling. Expect lovely notes of toasted brioche, honeysuckle, yuzu, citrus blossoms, and a hint of ginger, with a palate opening up to honeycomb and lychee.

PHOTO COURTESY OF IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

2014 Jardin d’Hiver Cuvée ($59) This limited edition cuvée, a dry and richly layered, late-disgorged ultra-brut, is a completely new style at Domaine Carneros. This special bottle was released in honor of the Château’s beautiful new Jardin d’Hiver, a grand glass room overlooking the sweeping vineyards and rolling hills of Carneros.

Aromas of caramelized pear, toasted macadamia nut, fresh flowers, and crisp green apple with a hint of lime zest combine with notes of pear, lychee, key lime, and honeydew melon on the palate. Exquisite!

Visiting the Estate: Domaine Carneros offers tastings on their terrace by reservation. With its expansive outdoor space with stunning views and array of curated tastings and pairings, Domaine Carneros is a perfect and safe setting for enjoying the best of wine country. Visit domainecarneros.com for more information.

Iron Horse Holidays

IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

Founded by Barry and Audrey Sterling in the mid-1970s, Iron Horse is a family-run winery and ranch producing elegant, beautifully balanced estate sparkling and still wines from its own Green Valley AVA in the Russian River Valley.

In addition to producing world-class wines, Iron Horse is widely respected for its commitment to environmental issues, stewardship of the land, and positive impact on its own community and the world beyond.

2016 Classic Vintage Brut ($48) Sometimes, you’ve just got to go with Vintner's Choice! This is considered the “flagship” of the Iron Horse bubblies and is co-founder Audrey Sterling’s favorite sparkling, which says a lot.

By nose: rising dough, orange marmalade, and baked apple. By mouth: ripe red apple, mandarin orange, and hazelnut.

Brut LD 2012 ($110) This is your bottle for that special celebration, a gift for your connoisseur, or to ring in the muchanticipated new year. The Brut LD (meaning late-disgorged or aged longer) is Iron Horse’s tête de cuvée or top-of-the-line sparkling. The longer aging creates a rich, refined, and creamy sparkling with aromas of rising dough, orange marmalade, and baked apple and notes of ripe red apple, mandarin orange, and hazelnut. Crispy pommes frites with sea salt and black pepper or truffle popcorn, anyone?

This holiday season, watch for the release of Iron Horse’s special cuvées, Gratitude and Resilience, beautiful bottles with proceeds supporting postfire relief efforts.

Tastings are available on-property by reservation. Visit ironhorsevineyards.com for more information.

“ Founded by the noble family behind Champagne Taittinger, it is one of the most stunning, elegant estates in the region with its French-inspired château, glass-walled Jardin d'Hiver, expansive terrace, and sweeping valley views.”

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HauteDRINKS J VINEYARDS & WINERY

It’s impossible to miss the beautiful bottles from J Vineyards & Winery, with their vibrant, elegant signature “J” (often a graceful swish of yellow).

Founded in 1985 by geologist Judy Jordan, J has as long been known as a top producer of European inspired—yet distinctively Californian—sparkling and still wines. Winemaker Nicole Hitchcock leads J today in crafting their acclaimed portfolio of 12 sparkling wines and additional varietal wines.

J Cuvee 20 Brut ($38) This should be a staple at every holiday gathering: a delicate dance of bubbles with soft flavors of lemon meringue pie and a lovely nose of toasted almond layered with apple, dried cranberry, and ginger snap. The perfect apéritif, pair this versatile sparkler with Dungeness crab cake or lobster roll, fresh popped white cheddar popcorn, or goat cheese rolled with herbes de Provence.

Visiting J: The world-class winery and tasting room is just south of the town of Healdsburg off of Highway 101. The property offers a breadth of beautiful tasting menus and pairing experiences from in-house Chef Shelton. For additional information on where to find and purchase wines or to make reservations, go to jwine.com.

J Cuvée 20 Brut gift box

J's Ultimate Expression of Caviar gift set

KORBEL

Korbel is known for its crowd-pleasing, excellent value and widely available sparkling wines. But what many may not be aware of is the rich history of the winery dating back to the 1880s. It started as and remains a family-run operation founded by the three Korbel brothers from Bohemia (formerly part of Czechoslovakia and Germany) in the mid-1800s. They then sold to winemaker Adolph Heck in 1950. It remains privately owned by the Heck family today.

Korbel 2017 Russian River Valley Natural ($16) A crisp, delicately dry sparkling wine, this is your oyster wine!

Fruity and well-balanced, the 2017 RRV Natural is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, giving this sparkling a lovely range, from notes of art green apple, citrus, and tropical fruit to strawberry and peach elements.

Korbel 2016 Master’s Reserve Blanc de Noirs ($30) A truly interesting bottle, the 2016 Sonoma County Master’s Reserve Blanc de Noirs is primarily a red grape blend, using five different grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Gamay, and Sangiovese, with Chardonnay the only white used. It has lots of expected red fruit (strawberry, raspberry, and cherry), but the fullbodied red grapes add a kick of spicy black pepper with some earthy elements, balanced with peach and subtle citrus notes from the Chardonnay.

Visiting Korbel: Nestled under the stately redwoods, the historic winery and tasting room traditionally offer tours and tastings daily, but have been limited to reservations in these times. Visit korbel.com to order wines or learn more about a visit.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF J VINEYARDS & WINERY; COURTESY OF KORBEL

J Brut Rosé ($45) Pink just feels festive! This lively, pink salmonhued sparkling Rosé is the perfect party starter.

Lovely nose of jasmine blossom, raspberry, tangerine, and kaffir lime leaf combine with notes of ripe strawberry, Bing cherry, blood orange, and lemon meringue. Pair this lively sparkling Rosé with tuna poke or grilled prawns or citrus-forward dishes.

Buzzworthy BOUTIQUE BRANDS

Amista Vineyards Sparkling Syrah

AMISTA

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMISTA

Dry Creek Valley has not traditionally been known as a sparkling wine region, but family-run Amista Vineyards took up that gauntlet and is now in its 10th year as the premiere producer of sparkling wines in the valley. Amista is owned by Mike and Vicky Farrow, with rising star winemaker Ashley Herzberg overseeing their sparkling program.

Amista’s sparkling wines are estate grown and crafted in the traditional method, focusing on Chardonnay and Rhône varieties.

The palate is delicate and light, yet striking in depth of character. You won't want to stop drinking this wine.

Visiting Amista: With extensive outdoor grounds extending to the banks of Dry Creek, Amista offers a range of well-spaced, thoughtful tastings and experiences by reservation, including a daily vineyard adventure walk. Visit amistavineyards. com to learn more.

Amista Vineyards sparkling winemaker Ashley Herzberg

Amista Blanc de Blanc ($46) This is a crowd-pleaser! Crafted from 100 percent Chardonnay, this wine has beautiful acidity and a dry finish which lingers. Inhale aromas of Asian pear and crisp green apple with hints of lemon meringue and citrus blossom. It is bright and crisp on the palate with layered citrus zest and a touch of ripe pear.

Amista Sparkling Syrah ($46) With a rich berry hue, this wine is absolutely beautiful in the glass. Expect aromas of freshly picked strawberries, blackberries, and lemon zest.

Amista Winery

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HauteDRINKS BREATHLESS WINES

Founded in 2017, Breathless Wines is a boutique family winery in Healdsburg, CA started by sisters Sharon Cohn, Rebecca Faust, and Cynthia Faust.

Together with acclaimed winemaker Penny GaddCoster, this all-female team is dedicated to crafting refreshing method champenoise sparkling wines that pair perfectly with life’s special moments.

And they are sweeping up the awards. This is a group to watch and drink with!

Breathless Blanc de Noirs ($32) The Sweepstakes winner for Best Sparkling Wine at the 2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, this is a gorgeous sparkler!

On the palate, taste brioche and a hint of berry with bright citrus aromas. This wine combines 93 percent Pinot Noir with 7 percent Pinot Meunier and aged 32 months.

Visiting Breathless Wines: The vintage, 1920s-style Healdsburg tasting room is crafted from recycled shipping containers and offers a spacious outdoor garden for leisurely picnics, Muglaini wood-fired pizza, and Italian sabrage lessons. Guests are welcome to book reservations Thursdays through Mondays, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information or to purchase wine for pick-up, delivery, or shipment, please visit breathlesswines.com.

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Breathless Wines sabrage

“Together with acclaimed winemaker Penny Gadd-Coster, this all-female team is dedicated to crafting refreshing method champenoise sparkling wines that pair perfectly with life’s special moments.”

Breathless Wines sister founders Cynthia Faust, Sharon Cohn, and Rebecca Faust and winemaker Penny Gadd-Coster

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BREATHLESS WINES

Breathless Brut ($27) This is a lovely expression: light, refreshing, and delightful! Enjoy pink grapefruit, green apple, and citrus flower aromas and a touch of tropical fruit with just a hint of yeast. Look for a beautifully balanced, smooth finish. This wine is made with 60 percent Chardonnay and 40 percent Pinot Noir and aged 24 months.

Brick & Mortar's founder Matt Iaconis picking at harvest

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRICK & MORTAR WINES

BRICK & MORTAR WINES

Sonoma-based wine and hospitality veterans Matt and Alexis Iaconis, acclaimed winemaker and advanced sommelier, respectively, founded this winery in 2011. Brick & Mortar focuses on single-vineyard Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah from select, high-elevation Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino vineyards. They recently added méthode champenoise sparkling, vin pétillantstyle Rosé, and a new line of canned wines. Their wines are elegant, balanced, and food-friendly: the European wine drinker’s California wine.

2016 La Perla Brut from Spring Mountain ($55) A new release for Brick & Mortar, this elegant, aromatic sparkling is made from 100 percent organic fruit from a biodynamically farmed vineyard on Spring Mountain (St. Helena). You can expect notes of lemon custard, spiced apple, and white blossoms from this wine.

2016 Block House Vineyard Brut Rosé, Napa Valley ($45) This sparkling is pure, copper-hued elegance with velvety-smooth bubbles. Made with 100 percent Pinot Noir from the Yountville area of Napa Valley, this is a traditional method sparkling wine made into a Rosé with the addition of 4 percent still Pinot Noir.

On the nose, expect red cherry, almond blossom, strawberry, Chinese five spice, and chalky mineral tones. On the palate, this wine is both powerful and subtle, with citrus notes, spiced orange, cherry compote, and ginger cake. This wine is billed as naturally made, vegan, and gluten free.

Where to find: In addition to purchasing direct online through Brick & Mortar, select sparkling wines are showcased at Region, the newly opened tasting room in Sebastopol’s cutting-edge maker district, the Barlow. This innovative industrial district houses a number of tasting rooms, restaurants, clothing boutiques, a craft distillery, coffee roaster and more. for more information on ordering and enjoying these wines, visit brickandmortarwines.com

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BY CHARLENE PETERS

HauteDINING LEGENDS & LONGEVITY The key to a restaurant’s success begins with adaptability A BOTTLE OF BUBBLY. THE SMELL OF AN OLD BOOK. Handwritten letters. Family photographs. Your favorite song.

A good conversation. Your favorite dish at a neighborhood restaurant. Unaffected by the passage of time and trends and able to adapt among everchanging restrictions in place during a pandemic, the following four restaurants have proven to be timeless.

JOHN'S GRILL

63 Ellis St. – (415) 986-0069 It’s no mystery why John’s Grill has remained a family business since 1908 (originally Gerard’s), but there’s a mystery within the legacy of this family-owned restaurant.

A family that works together through the thick of things is sure to thrive in success—even if it’s in the tenuous business of owning a restaurant.

Just ask third-generation co-owner John Konstin, Jr., who spent his youth in the family business before honing his hospitality chops at the Culinary Institute of America’s Hyde Park, N.Y., location.

Following five years spent reading, cooking, and immersed in hospitality training, he returned nearly two years ago as co-owner of the restaurant.

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The Jack LaLanne Salad

He works under the guidance of his father, John Konstin, Sr., who is now able to step away from his day-to-day involvement.

A combination of several factors is essential for success. Experience counts, but so does a disciplined education and training. It also doesn’t hurt to be in a prime location, two blocks from San Francisco’s Union Square in a space opened two years after the 1906 earthquake and where celebrities and politicians gather to enjoy a few evergreen menu items, such as the Jack LaLanne Salad, namesake of repeat customer and late fitness guru.

Konstin, Jr. shares a story about a time when his grandfather, Gus, ran the restaurant back in the day when LaLanne requested a modification

of a salad to accommodate his body building nutritional needs. The seafood combination with crabmeat and sliced avocado fit his bill of health and has remained on the menu in honor of the California Hall of Fame inductee.

In a pivot to accommodate dining during a pandemic, the Konstins now offer a 700-squarefoot outdoor parklet for the safety and social distancing of diners. Heat lamps, umbrellas, and white cloth-covered tables offer comfort.

On occasion, there’s live music outdoors for the pleasure of frequent patrons, such as former mayor “Hiz Honor” Willy Brown. Also noteworthy are the takeout and delivery options which also offer bottles of the restaurant’s private label wine.

With a history of patronage from celebrities

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOHN'S GRILL

Outdoor dining at John's Grill

that span from Shirley Temple to Julia Child, Hollywood stars Marlon Brando to Robin Williams, and notables such as President Ronald Reagan and today’s House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, nobody has made more of an indelible impression on Konstin, Jr. than Sting.

It’s typical to spot celebrities regularly in the city, he says. “The one time I paused, I wouldn't say I was starstruck, but I was excited to look over and see Sting,” who was on contract with one of the theaters downtown. “Every Saturday or Sunday before his show, he would come in for our

lamb chops. It got to a point where he would walk in and say, ‘John, how are you doing,’ and I’d say, ‘Sting, good evening and welcome!’”

Sting’s favorite dish is one that has been served longer than the 30 years Chef Mauricio Sibrian has been at the restaurant. These signature lamb chops were actually a menu item namesake of Dashiell Hammett’s famous 1929 detective novel, The Maltese Falcon, which he wrote at the bar.

Talk about timeless. This dish remains the most popular today. Konstin, Jr. says he personally grew up on the menu item that showcases

The outdoor dining space at Town Hall

Cornmeal johnnycake, sorghum syrup, market compote, house-made butter

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOWN HALL

Colorado lamb chops. He says the lamb is not too gamey and works well with the chef’s perfected seasoning and technique of grilling.

In today’s ultra-competitive market, Konstin, Jr. remains grateful his family owns the building. “It is an absolute saving grace that helps tremendously every single day,” he says. Added to the staying power of John’s Grill, he says, “is its consistent food, large portions, reasonable pricing, and repeat customers. Our goal is to make them feel like royalty.”

Mystery solved.

Smoked onion dip and old bay chips appetizer

TOWN HALL RESTAURANT

Blackened rib eye with brown butter garlic sauce

342 Howard St. - (415) 908-3900 The stylishly sophisticated space inside Town Hall made an indelible impression on the SOMA dining scene when it opened in 2003, a time when there wasn’t a plethora of fine dining restaurants downtown.

Perhaps its success is knowing how to relate to its patronage. Co-owner Bjorn Kock understands what diners crave and is happy to work with Executive Chef Justin Minnich to accommodate.

Town Hall’s better-known menu items include its crispy, juicy, and flavorful buttermilk fried chicken and favorites such as barbeque Gulf shrimp, andouille sausage jambalaya, and butterscotch and chocolate pot de crème, to name a few.

When posed with the question on Town Hall’s success, Kock replied, “I don't think there is one singular factor that would suffice as an answer.”

He went on to explain how a conglomeration of elements is attributable to Town Hall’s staying power. For 2020, the best laid plan has been

to stay openminded within an everchanging landscape and business paradigm. According to Kock, Town Hall’s remained success during the pandemic correlates to a group effort of supporters, including the restaurant’s ownership and management.

“Trust and support from our landlord, encouragement and collaboration through numerous Zoom calls and podcasts with fellow players in the industry, advocacy and updates from local and national restaurant associations and community organizations,” says Kock of the long list of reasons Town Hall was able to successfully reopen.

“To stay open, we will rely on our amazing staff, our loyal guests, adequate local government guidance, and our own ability to adapt and respond to the needs of our guests in this ‘new normal,’” he says.

For now, Town Hall has had to forego its signature restaurant buyout option, focusing on more easily controlled, seated buyout events.

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HauteDINING Town Hall Restaurant continued

Scoma's fishermen unloading the catch of the day

SCOMA’S

Pier 47, Fisherman’s Wharf – (415) 771-4383 Scoma’s most famous dish may be the Lazy Man’s Cioppino, but having a tail-to-table menu has catapulted its reputation for having the freshest and most sustainable seafood available.

Founder Al Scoma was no stranger to the seafood community when he and his brother Joe opened a little coffee shop for fisherman in 1965, one that quickly evolved into a restaurant that served their daily catch. Al Scoma brought his prior restaurant operating experience to the table from his days as one of six partners in Castagnola’s Restaurant on Fisherman’s Wharf. Scoma’s also owns a 46foot fishing boat used and licensed for the annual salmon and crab seasons.

“Our restaurant is proud of our longstanding relationships with the local fishing community where we source most of our seafood,” says Melissa Amato, director of marketing.

In fact, guests can watch the fishing boats pull up to the restaurant's fish receiving station to 38

trying just about anything to see what works and makes sense in this new reality we operate in: from new operating hours, changes in menu selection, expansion of outdoor seating, embracing delivery and takeout as a new pillar of revenue—and not an afterthought—to new concepts of contactless payment and ordering.”

In a time when hospitality matters most, gratitude from its patrons keeps staff spirits soaring, says Kock. “In the first week we opened, so many times have I heard ‘Thank you for being

open. We missed you.’ While I believe some of it can be attributed to our great staff and our reputation, I also think guests simply yearn for this sense of being taken care of again and interacting with other people.”

Let’s not forget about the food, though. At Town Hall, the most requested dish is from the 2003 opening menu: the slow roasted duck with dirty rice, a recipe nod to Paul Prudhomme’s K-Paul’s.

It’s now back on the tribute menu as a highlight of the reopening.

Scoma's Lazy Man's Cioppino, its most popular dish

witness the day’s catch before it’s artfully served on their plates.

Open for over 50 years, Scoma’s remains an iconic restaurant on San Francisco’s waterfront.

Beginning with its founder, the core of Scoma’s mission is loyalty to its guests, the team, and the community.

“We have seen multiple generations grow up over the years,” says Amato of its guests and team, the latter deemed one of Scoma’s greatest assets, with a union staff count surpassing 130 employees, some having worked at the restaurant for over 40 years.

Keeping community relations intact, Al Scoma’s involvement and philanthropic efforts with local organizations span from the local police and fire departments to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Deemed a cultural asset to the city of San Francisco for its longstanding, community-serving ideals, Scoma’s has been officially recognized as a Legacy Business.

Evaluating the year 2020, Scoma’s has had to shift and pivot much like everyone else.

“During our 55 years of business, we have expanded to meet the evolving needs of our community,” says Amato.

At the onset of the pandemic, Scoma’s focused on to-go food options and has since expanded to open its waterfront outdoor dining on the pier. They’ve recently added brunch offerings, and—to the community’s delight—a “Happiest Hours” menu.

“We are truly a legacy business that is progressive, never resting on our laurels, protecting the environment, adopting sustainable practices—and we give back whenever possible,” says Amato.

Pier to plate can be witnessed on any given morning, when one can easily spot local fishermen as they pull up to the pier to supply the freshest fish to Scoma’s. The restaurant’s most popular dish, the Lazy Man’s Cioppino, is named for its ease to the diner—served out of shell. It’s rich,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOMA'S

Says Kock, “The idea of a large number of people walking and mingling without masks to enjoy food and drinks seems utopian at the current stage. We are looking forward to offering events again and eagerly await government guidance to do so safely and responsibly.”

Competition has dwindled, which has shifted the mindsets of restaurateurs who now embrace a collaborative spirit.

“The challenge is more about the willingness to change and adapt,” says Kock. “To be open to

tomato-based, house-made broth is filled with a mix of seafood stew, including the area’s indigenous Dungeness crab. This is a dish that could muss up a diner’s shirt, so a bib is served with every order.

“Cioppino is a special dish that originated right here at Fisherman’s Wharf from the Italian immigrants working as fishermen in San Francisco,” says Amato. “It is the dish that keeps generations of locals and tourists coming back year after year for more.”

Inside Scoma’s, the most requested and popular dining room is the Sports Room, where a wall adorned with autographed photos of local sports legends from the Giants and 49ers is dedicated to Al Scoma’s love of the city’s sports teams.

From pier to plate

The front room inside Perry's on Union

(TOP) PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOMA'S; (BOTTOM PHOTOS) COURTESY OF PERRY'S

PERRY'S ON UNION

1944 Union – (415) 922-9022 In business spanning five decades, Perry’s is considered an institution on Union Street.

Namesake owner Perry Butler remains at the helm of three locations (Union, Embarcadero, and Larkspur), but it’s the Union Street location he refers to as “museum quality.”

Butler hailed from New York City, where he formerly worked in the advertising business. He had no desire to stay on that career path, so he borrowed money from a relative and channeled his inspiration from the saloons of New York’s Upper East Side. He knew what he wanted, and with certain touches—blue and white checked tablecloths, a hexagonal tiled floor, walls clad with wood-paneled memorabilia, and a menu offering of American classics—he created a cool

Perry's signature sliders

and inviting atmosphere, not to mention a bustling bar that drew attention from customers within the San Francisco neighborhood.

Butler suggests his staying power is a result of loyal patronage from the neighborhood, many who met at Perry’s to become longtime friends.

These friends regularly gather to enjoy a few signature dishes such as the cobb salad, French onion soup, Petrale sole, and, of course, the Perry's Hamburger.

Says Butler of the iconic, 9-ounce burger on brioche that has made Perry’s famous, “My goal was to offer a thick burger with juice that runs down your chin on first bite, just like I remember during my New York days. At Perry’s, it’s all about the burger.”

Butler’s demand for consistency adds value to repeat customers who desire “good ’ole traditional

The new parklet in front of Perry's on Union

food,” he says. “It never goes out of style. It’s nothing trendy.”

Perry’s strives to serve high quality food, drinks, and wine, never cutting corners, according to Butler. “That’s what’s made the difference,” he says. “So few places pull that off.”

Butler’s goal has been realized with patrons who tell him they can’t wait to come back—and they’re never disappointed with repeat orders.

Today, the four sidewalk tables have been reduced to two to accommodate social distancing, and an added 40-foot parklet offers five more tables. Butler says he’s thankful to have the parklet and keep his business going with lots of takeout. “There’s no place like this here in San Francisco, so we went ahead with those New York principles, and I’m proud of our longevity. I’m determined we’ll make it through this.”

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BY BECCA HENSLEY

HauteTRAVEL

Aspen is famous for its historic streets and après scene

These three ski resorts welcome you SKI RESORTS AROUND THE UNITED STATES HAVE BEEN BUSY MODIFYING GUIDELINES TO KEEP YOU SAFE ON THE SLOPES THIS SEASON. While policies vary and may evolve, masks will be worn, social distancing enforced, and fewer tickets sold to give everyone enough space in the snow.

Plan and reserve your ski vacation early to make sure you won’t miss an s-turn or après soirée. Consider the following three.

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PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF ASPEN CVB

WINTER IS COMING

The Little Nell outdoors

BEST STAYS: The Little Nell Aspen’s most luxurious stay, literally laughing distance from the gondola, the slope-side Nell manages to be both urbane and cozy. Tipple after skiing at The Little Nell Wine Bar, overseen by Wine Director Chris Dunaway and his team of stellar sommeliers. It offers 50 different wines by the glass.

Choose the Pfeifer Suite for its 2,000-square-feet of swankiness, plus two mountain-side balconies.

W Aspen and Sky Residences Chic, tony, and design-savvy, this cool kids’ hangout occupies a prime spot slope-side. With mountain views, a rooftop pool, a ski shop, fire pits, colorful common rooms, and décor that references Aspen’s mining past, this modern chalet hotel feels like a party. Indulge in one of the 11 jaw-dropping Sky Residences, gorgeous 2- or 3-bedroom delights with full kitchens and boast-worthy terraces.

ASPEN AND SNOWMASS You’ll want to train before you visit, because Aspen has two top winter sports—skiing and après. Once a silver mining mecca, this world-renowned ski area, tucked into Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, encompasses four ski mountains, each with its own highlights: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Aspen Mountain rises from stylish main streets— buzzy walkways that brim with bars, restaurants, and canny shops. Best for better skiers, it offers early morning first track skiing (by reservation only) and pre-ski yoga mountaintop. Put the kids into lessons at Buttermilk, a treasure trove of easy groomers, accessible via a short bus ride. Go to Aspen Highlands for its long ridge and drop-off trails and get thee to Snowmass for its multi-level largesse and powdery snow. Advanced skiers can earn bragging rights at off-piste Highland Bowl, reachable by snowcat and a 30-minute hike to where a stunning bowl awaits with pitches that range from 38 to 52 degrees. By far the best après ski happens in Aspen town, when the lifts close, and everybody begins their evening work out.

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) COURTESY OF THE LITTLE NELL; (BOTTOM) ©ZACH MARAZITI

Aspen, a former mountain town, is as well known for its social scene as ski slopes

Aspen Meadows Resort For a unique, yet quintessentially Aspen, hideaway, choose this quiet haven minutes from downtown.

Set amid a 40-acre garden, home to hundreds of works of art, and built as Bauhaus style architecture, it sports 98 spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Complimentary airport, mountain, and town shuttle services transfer guests to activities.

Opt for the 1-bedroom mountain suite for its views.

Viceroy Snowmass Claiming Snowmass’ best address, this ski-in/ ski residential resort exudes a nostalgic lodge vibe enhanced by modern amenities. Its Native American-inspired spa makes it a destination in itself. With onsite snowboard/ski rental and ski valet, the retreat offers unique packages, such as Uphill Thrills, an epic back country adventure complete with guides. Book the 3-bedroom penthouse and bring the family.

DON’T MISS: Visit the stunning Aspen Art Museum, designed by Shigeru Ban, which looks like it was molded from bentwood.

WHERE TO DINE: Bosq for its creative menu, French Alpine Bistro for its fondue, and Duemani for its contemporary Italian fare.

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HauteTRAVEL BEST STAYS: St. Regis Deer Valley With its arrival by romantic funicular, this multilevel resort evokes a castle amid the pines. A place you’re likely to learn to saber champagne (that’s a St. Regis thing), have a Remede spa treatment, drink a signature Bloody Mary (also a St. Regis tradition), see A-listers in your midst, and sleep in luxury, this ski in/ski out retreat stands out as one of Park City’s best. Pampering bathrooms make the one bedroom, slope-facing suites the right choice.

OTHER OPTIONS: Waldorf Astoria Park City, conveniently situated at the base of Canyons Village, offers immense suites and mountain access at the resort’s northwestern side. Washington School House, ensconced in a historic building just off Main Street, exudes intimate luxury with just 13 stunning guest rooms.

DON’T MISS: Bobsled at the Utah Olympic Park for the ultimate thrill.

WHERE TO DINE: Go to Wahso for clever Asian with flair, Silver Star Café for upscale mountainside dining, and Riverhorse to be seen with the glitterati.

The St Regis Deer Valley

PARK CITY Float through Utah’s “Greatest Snow on Earth” with a ski vacation to Park City, located just half an hour from Salt Lake City International Airport. Anchored by its charming, refurbished, silver boom town streets and made famous as host for the 2002 Winter Olympics and its annual, celebrity-rife Sundance Film Festival, this nirvana of mountain style (and understated elegance) vaunts three incomparable ski resort experiences. Park City Resort, which became the United States’ largest ski resort when it merged with neighboring Canyons Resort in 2015, provides 7,300 skiable acres with 38 lifts, 300 trails, and 14 bowls. Adjacent, legendary Deer Valley Resort reigns with upscale amenities, 2,000 plus acres of wide-open, groomed terrain, and a skier only policy. New in 2019, Woodward Park City opened as the nation’s first all-inone, year round ski and sport action retreat. Expect lift-accessed adventure tubing, skiing, and snowboarding in season.

Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in the United States

PHOTO CREDITS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) TK; COURTESY OFPARK CITY TOURISM; COURTESY OF PCMR

At Park City Mountain Resort, a favorite lift is the Orange Bubble Express, beloved for its heated seats

JACKSON HOLE

BEST STAYS:

Way up yonder in Wyoming’s far western corner, laid-back Jackson Hole beckons. A wild, untrammeled region (expect a moose on the loose) which borders Grand Teton National Park, the hole refers to a grand valley and all it encompasses. Jackson, home to a town square which holds an otherworldly (and Instagrammable) elk antler arch, has a chic western vibe and one in-town ski area, Snow King, a family-friendly resort. A few miles away, horseshoe-shaped Teton Village fringes a skiers’ and boarders’ paradise known for its challenging runs—though there’s always an easy way down. To scare the bejesus out of yourself, plummet down vertically intense Corbet's Couloir, an expert skier’s coveted badge of honor.

Four Season Jackson Hole With the coddling vibe of a warm cabin on a cold day, this masculine-intoned den (think: leather, stone, wood) of suavity and charm provides direct access to Rendezvous Mountain and its abundant variety of ski runs. Characteristically opulent, Four Seasons' guest rooms and service, a huge outdoor pool for après ski, and horse drawn sleigh rides make this Jackson’s epic stay.

OTHER OPTIONS: Try the design savvy Fireside Resort Cabins, inspired by the Tiny House movement for a stylish, affordable stay. And, in Jackson, fans of vintage will love Anvil Hotel, a redone 1950s ski lodge.

DON’T MISS: Granite Hot Springs, less than an hour from Jackson, for a mineral rich soak.

WHERE TO DINE: Fork up goose leg confit at the landmark Snake River Grill. On the mountain, Couloir sustains skiers with hearty fare, and Glorietta does swoon-worthy Italian.

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS JACKSON HOLE; (BOTTOM IMAGES) COURTESY OF WYOMING TOURISM

At Four Season Jackson Hole, skiers can ski right out the hotel’s back door

Jackson Hole is known for its challenging slopes

The gondola at Teton Mountain Village

BY STEPH KEAY

HauteCUISINE

An array of skewers awaits at GOZU-Chan, Ittoryu Gozu's new outdoor experience

CRAFT CATTLE Ittoryu GOZU’s thoughtful take on beef begins with a red-roofed château in the snowy mountains of Japan.

BORN IN THE HEART OF CANADA’S CATTLE COUNTRY, I’VE BEEN familiar with beef for a long time. Growing up, I grazed on barbecue roast beef on a bun at the annual rodeo and dined on flame-grilled ribeyes at family reunions.

Certified Angus beef was a staple on local menus from hole-in-the-wall restaurants to the finest dining rooms, and as a young adult, I procured a sous vide cooker and learned to finish filet mignons with a torch. When I moved to California, I added yet another important piece of bovine knowledge—the tri-tip—to my repertoire.

The rising popularity of wagyu led to a deeper appreciation for beef. On my last pilgrimage to Japan, I boarded a bullet train an hour out of my way to a restaurant dubbed “The Beef Wonderland” for a taste of rare Tosa Akaushi (Japanese Brown Cattle) cooked yakiniku-style with hitotema, which the owner roughly translated as “time and effort.” Closer to home, I spotted a balsamic-rubbed American wagyu tri-tip in a Noe Valley butcher shop. “I better do this justice,” a friend said nervously as he fired up the Weber. After half an hour under a watchful eye, a knife sliced through the revered roast like room-temperature butter. The room was silenced, in the way only great food can accomplish, as the perfectly medium-rare wagyu melted in our mouths.

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Dry aging at GOZU

Skewers cooking over binchotan

GOZU's dining room

PHOTO CREDITS: ©JOSEPH WEAVER

Inside the kitchen at GOZU

ITADAKIMASU / I HUMBLY RECEIVE THIS MEAL Like a Lagotto Romagnolo to truffles, my latest quest for exceptional beef brought me to Ittoryu GOZU, where respect for the animal and cooking with fire are central to the dining experience. In light of the indoor dining restrictions, the restaurant launched GOZU-Chan Highball Garden and Robataya in late July—a relaxed outdoor experience featuring socially distanced tables in the courtyard adjacent to the restaurant. At this al fresco dining room, flames flicker from a portable konro grill helmed by Chef/Owner Marc Zimmerman—a kindred spirit in the appreciation of beef.

Hailing from Indiana, Zimmerman worked in a number of high-profile Las Vegas restaurants before relocating to San Francisco. He was tapped to open the first Alexander’s Steakhouse in the city and spent nearly eight years developing restaurants for the group, including locations in Taipei and Tokyo.

Although he had his first taste of wagyu while working at Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak in Las Vegas, it was at Alexander’s that the idea for GOZU began to take hold. “Beef, and wagyu in particular, began to fill my mind constantly,” he says. “I began thinking about how we could do more, use more of the animal, and show it the full respect it deserves.”

One of the most coveted menu items in the world, wagyu is a breed of Japanese cattle known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, thanks to its fat which has a melting point near body temperature. Factors such as aging and marbling determine its grade, with A5 being the top tier.

After spending nearly a decade chasing the best beef around the world, Zimmerman opened GOZU, his first solo venture, last November. He sources his A5 wagyu from a private reserve in Hokkaido called Chateau Uenae, which raises “craft” Japanese Black Wagyu cattle bred for impeccable consistency and unmatched flavor.

The farm is the sole producer of Hokkaido Snow Beef, named for its genetic predisposition for finely grained marbling, in which delicate streaks of fat distributed throughout the muscle resemble lacy snowflakes. The rarest regional variant of Japanese wagyu, only one or two cows receive the esteemed classification on a monthly basis. Located in a small coastal town with frigid temperatures, these purebred cattle grow a thick coat that encourages a unique style of fat dispersion. The fat in this exceptionally rare wagyu boasts a lower melting point than other wagyus, and the result is an intense, almost creamy, sweetness that coats the taste buds with every bite.

The cattle are also treated with utmost respect: raised outdoors, groomed regularly, and fed a diet heavy on Hokkaido’s famous sweet corn.

GOZU’s nose-to-tail philosophy continues Chateau Uenae’s tradition of respecting the animal. Zimmerman does intensive research into underutilized and traditional methods of using every part of the cow, such as the fermentation of beef into garum, a technique that dates back to the Roman empire. At GOZU, scraps are used to make shoyu, bones are used as charcoal, and fat is rendered to make sauces for many of the dishes.

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HauteCUISINE Binchotan, a specialty Japanese charcoal

Top tier beef is available from A-Five, GOZU's pop-up butcher shop

Classic sumi-e artwork featured inside GOZU

OISHIKATTA DESU / IT WAS DELICIOUS In the GOZU-Chan courtyard, Zimmerman overlooks the konro grill on which skewers are cooked over kishu binchotan. Sipping on an ume toddy, a warm plum whisky cocktail that helps take the edge off of San Francisco’s nighttime chill, I observe other diners congregating over plates of sizzling meat, seafood, and vegetables. The popular fingerling potatoes combine tallow with caviar, melding together the flavors of land and sea. Similarly, the wagyu stuffed morel offers ingredients that complement one another richly: the tender wagyu brisket confit alongside grains of sweet, sticky Koshihikari rice, wrapped inside the earthy-flavored, honeycomb-textured mushroom, and topped with a silky yuzu beurre blanc. Brentwood corn halves are grilled with creamy, European-style butter topped with crisp granules of wagyu bacon and dusted with shichimi. The broccoli rabe, a tart intermission between the buttery meat skewers, awakens the senses with an aromatic karashi mustard and tendrils of shaved miso-cured jidori egg yolk. The velvety prawn is an explosion of umami from the koji butter, which brings out the sweet brininess of the shellfish.

The beef is handled just as carefully, as expected, with the use of innovative ingredients that complement its rich flavors. A koji-aged Lone Mountain wagyu tri-tip sandwiched between supple morsels of Tokyo negi has a bold, beefy taste, yet its fat is silky and sweet—thanks to the higher percentage of healthy, high-quality fatty acids found in wagyu. The A5 Miyazaki wagyu 46

strip loin, served with dashes of roasted garlic purée, is just meaty enough to provide a pleasant texture between the pillowy layers of buttery fat. One of the most surprising dishes was the niku-dango, meatballs made simply from wagyu scraps and glazed with a wagyu-based tare. Expecting a firmer texture closer to tsukune (its yakitori counterpart), I discovered that these beef meatballs were melt-on-your-tongue tender—perhaps another reason Snow Beef is named as such. Another must-try: the burnt ends, a delicacy originally popularized in Kansas City you won’t find on the menu at steakhouses. Forged from the crunchy, crusty points of a brisket, these caramelized nuggets of flavor are akin to “finding a pearl in an oyster,” as American barbecue authority Doug Worgul puts it. A smoky departure from the other skewers, the burnt ends held their own, showcasing Hokkaido Snow Beef’s versatility in this unexpected form of preparation. Brushed with a mildly sweet tonkatsu sauce and topped simply with a tangy bread and butter sunomono, this dish inspired an array of different flavors and textures. The caramel notes of beef were highlighted by the crisp charred crust, which melted into the tender meat with a mouthfeel that was sweet, velvety, and creamy all at once—not unlike the milk Hokkaido is also so renowned for. Last but not least was the ultra-rare, olive-fed A5 Kagawa wagyu ribeye cap, which offers a denser texture and distinctly bold umami flavor courtesy of the cattle’s special diet of toasted olive peels.

Skewers are cooked quickly over binchotan

Intensely marbled wagyu

PHOTO CREDITS: ©JOSEPH WEAVER; COURTESY OF GOZU

BETSUBARA / ALWAYS ROOM FOR DESSERT GOZU-Chan’s sweets menu features its signature wagyu tallow-infused chocolate chip cookies served piping-hot from the oven. Also on offer are mochi ice creams and a grilled Tenbrink Farms peach with shoyu caramel, served with milk bread ice cream featuring the distinctive, full-bodied taste of Hokkaido milk. S'more bites made with caramelized Okinawan brown sugar marshmallows, a wonderfully fluffy graham cake, and shard of Tcho chocolate melt in your mouth as smoothly as the rounds of wagyu that came before it—the evening’s delights coming full circle.

At many restaurants, one might select omakase (which runs for ~$150 per person at GOZU) as a way of receiving the best tasting experience, but at GOZU it’s also a means to keep yourself in check—otherwise you might just get carried away, ordering seconds and thirds, chasing the high of discovering brilliant new flavors and textures. Not just a chophouse, and certainly not a traditional steakhouse, GOZU is an educational space where beef lovers can thoroughly savor the experience.

Wagyu tallow chocolate chip cookies

GOZU-Chan offers a relaxed outdoor dining experience

GOCHISOUSAMA DESHITA / THANK YOU FOR THE FEAST While Ittoryu GOZU can be simply translated to “one animal (beef) discipline,” Zimmerman explains that the restaurant is not only about wagyu. Rather, “it is about working with animals and sea life from Japan and California, studying the nuance of flavor, and cooking them in their entirety over live fire.” When indoor dining reopens, GOZU’s next iteration will feature a menu that more fully integrates beef, while still providing a balanced experience including sea life, market produce, and poultry. With all of the time Zimmerman’s team has had to further develop the philosophy of the restaurant, he teases that they’ve “also found some flavors that are uniquely GOZU.” Despite the setbacks of the pandemic, Zimmerman is unwaveringly passionate. “I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I’m grateful for the opportunity to chase my dream in one of the greatest food cities in the world, [and] I’m proud of our scars and the strength our team has acquired through the sheer endurance of these crazy times.”

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BY GAIL GOLDBERG

HauteFASHION So, it comes as no surprise that, after taking a few breaths and reflecting on a world turned upside down by both the pandemic and the death of George Floyd, Pierce got busy. He shifted his focus and creative energy toward producing "Bay Area Models for Black Lives," a powerful series of images.

Pierce, who grew up with eight sisters and five brothers in the Bayview, felt compelled to create something inspiring to support the Black community, specifically the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Naturally, he reached into his bag of fashion tricks and reached out to the many industry contacts and friends he has collected over the years while helming his fashion show production company Charleston Pierce Presents.

The cavalry heeded the call.

Makeup artists and photographers volunteered. Models from Pierce's classes were ready recruits. And Black-owned stores Proper Fashions and Oxford Way Tailored Men's Clothing were happy to lend clothing. The photoshoot, which also features Pierce, took place one day last summer at several locations in downtown Oakland.

Q&A

CHARLESTON PIERCE: USING HIS FASHION SUPERPOWERS FOR GOOD Exhibit A: His photoshoot in support of Black Lives Matter CHARLESTON PIERCE IS NOT A GUY WHO LIKES TO SIT STILL—OR ON the sidelines. For many years, the fashion Renaissance man and native San Franciscan has been on the go, balancing a career as a fashion show producer, talent scout, model coach, model, and full-time teacher for middle- and highschoolers in the San Francisco Unified School District. (Anyone else feeling like a slacker?)

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HL: How long have you lived in San Francisco?

CP: I grew up in the beautiful Bayview district in San Francisco. I moved away from San Francisco to Los Angeles in the late Eighties to pursue my modeling career and the entertainment lifestyle. I am currently back in the Bayview where my modeling began.

HL: Give us the elevator-pitch version of your career.

CP: I am Charleston Pierce of Charleston Pierce Presents. I am a fashion show producer/director, talent scout, coach, mentor, author, and model.

I have dedicated my life and career to inspiring others with purpose, passion, and commitment. I achieve this by hosting model workshops for talent of all ages via social media and by teaching high-risk youth within the SF school district. These platforms help build self-esteem, confidence, social skills, teamwork, and more.

HL: What is your main role as head of Charleston Pierce Presents?

CP: My main role is creating and building successful, mindful models and artists in the business of modeling. In addition, I am a producer of seamless fashion shows for organizations and charities.

HL: How did the idea for Bay Area Models for Black Lives come to you?

CP: The idea came to me when we first sheltered in place. I realized we were in a pandemic of two types: COVID-19 and the BLM movement.

Sheltering immediately put the world on pause. I was forced to slow down and listen to the cries. We're all moving so fast that we never really make time to look at our neighbors. When I did, I was exposed to the pain and suffering of Black lives. I thought, "I am Black in America, my life matters. What could I do to give a voice to the unheard?" I created the project to stand in solidarity and do my part. To the best of my ability, I am using my life and platforms to make the world a better place.

PHOTO CREDIT: ŠRACHELLE STEELE

HAUTE LIVING X CHARLESTON PIERCE

PHOTO CREDITS: ©MATTHEW EVEARITT

HL: What are you trying to communicate with the project and, ultimately, did you succeed?

CP: What I wanted to say is that we as models stand in solidarity with the BLM movement. We wanted to express our love and compassion to support Black lives. And, yes, I believe the final images showcase the exquisite beauty of Black lives through many shapes and shades. They depict Blackness as strength, excellence, and unity.

HL: Why was it important for you to be in the fashion shoot, as well?

CP: I'm featured in the images because I wanted to showcase in a positive light that we're all united: we can’t go it alone and we're all in this together. In my position of leadership, it's imperative for me to be involved in my projects. It’s my way of giving a thumbs-up. CP doesn’t just stand for Charleston Pierce, it's also an acronym for “conscious people”—an "each one, reach one, teach one" sentiment that embraces my leadership style.

HL: What do the models' fashions say?

CP: I was extremely thoughtful about the fashion choices. I believe that Black people are beautiful people of color. Contrary to the macabre images we see in the media surrounding African-American men and women, I wanted the clothes and the poses to exude peace, confidence, and class. If there's going to be a change, it needs to start with us first—and how we see ourselves. I wanted to highlight our many hues with bursts of color, specifically for the women. The message behind their colorful fashions is that they are beautiful, hopeful, loving, bold, sunshine. They represent a celebration of life!

The “men in black” were also a conscious effort. I wanted the world to see Black men through my eyes and experience: as strong, stable, sophisticated, non-threatening, non-violent, classy, and excellent. The good guys dress in black, remember that.

“ The 'men in black' were also a conscious effort. I wanted the world to see Black men through my eyes and experience: as strong, stable, sophisticated, non-threatening, nonviolent, classy, and excellent. The good guys dress in black, remember that.”

–Charleston Pierce

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PHOTO CREDITS: ©BRYAN BLAIR

HauteFASHION

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HL: How long did the shoot take?

CP: It took just a few short hours. I was extremely organized, strategic, and thoughtful about the shoot. I pre-planned every aspect of the day. I chalk up the success and ease of the day to lots of preparation—and prayer.

HL: Did anything unexpected happen during the shoot?

CP: Yes, funny you should ask—two unexpected things happened during the shoot. The first was the BLM street photos. My photographer spontaneously suggested we utilize that street on the day of. It wasn’t planned, but it was a great location. I immediately choreographed a formation, and it was the perfect happy accident. In addition, a couple of the models came to the shoot with different hairstyles than I originally asked for, but I loved their looks. This may seem small, but it's important to me for the models, as artists, to offer their feedback and creativity. The change in styles actually added to what I was trying to accomplish.

HL: What kind of feedback have you received about the project?

CP: I have been fortunate to receive a lot of organic traction and positive feedback on the project. The BLM movement is still an extremely relevant conversation happening every day, and I wanted to contribute my form of expression to the movement.

There will never be another 2020, so the time was N.O.W. (no opportunity wasted).

HL: What's next for you?

CP: What’s next is an all-inclusive photo shoot for Bay Area Models for Black Lives. It will showcase allies from varying backgrounds, nationalities, shapes, sizes and hues. Everyone featured is united with BLM and an active part of the movement. It will be a beautiful expression of peace and love, indicating that all lives support Black lives.

PHOTO CREDITS: (LEFT TWO IMAGES) ©MATTHEW EVEARITT; (BOTTOM RIGHT) ©BRYAN BLAIR

charlestonpierce.com | oxfordwaytailoring.com properfashions.myshopify.com

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BY JENNIFER RAISER

HauteFASHION

DARK GARDEN CORSETRY ACCENTUATES THE POSITIVE IT’S TIME TO REVEAL ONE OF SAN Francisco’s best kept fashion secrets: The quickest, most comfortable way to a contoured waistline, an elegant silhouette, and a dramatic décolleté is not a diet, a personal trainer, or a surgical procedure. It’s a corset made by Dark Garden Unique Corsetry in Hayes Valley. And wearing one is a literal cinch!

These corsets are made by talented women artisans who have been producing ravishing results for over 30 years. But these are not your great-grandmother’s whalebone-laden undergarments. They are engineered using modern materials applied to traditional techniques for equal amounts of comfort and comeliness.

They offer back support, proper posture, and the sexiest silhouette this side of Jessica Rabbit.

Overbust corsets can serve as an undergarment, a very visible bodice, or the top of an evening or bridal ensemble. Underbust versions can become a visible belt or a discreet cincher. Worn mostly by those who dress as women, corsets are becoming increasingly popular with men wishing to present a waist-slimmed physique. Best of all, they can be worn with ease for hours at a time.

As we begin the Roaring Twenties of our own century, we were curious about those modern flappers who are putting their corsets back on.

Autumn Adamme, the proprietress and chief designer of Dark Garden Unique Corsetry, has spent the last three decades lacing up her customers and herself.

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Autumn Adamme outside of her charming Hayes Valley store and atelier

“Corsets are for those who want to celebrate their bodies, accentuate their curves, and feel utterly glamorous.” Adamme says knowingly.

“They are worn by gala chairs and drag queens, Beau Brummels and beatific brides of all ages, backgrounds, body types, and gender expressions. That makes us a good fit for San Francisco—pun intended.”

For years, corset-wearing was mostly the purview of Ren Faire folks and fetishists, with the occasional opera singer or female impersonator. But when the avant-garde adopt an item, fashion follows. Daring debutantes and not-so-blushing brides began commissioning their own ensembles, and soon Dark Garden became a destination for the gala-goers who wanted to make waves in a sea of designer duplicates.

a wonderful time at her reception and has worn it frequently—with a few marks to show for it. I am going to hand-apply a gorgeous French blue lace onto her sheer corset to give it new life.”

Adamme has a hard time picking her favorites. “A longtime client brought in this devastating Japanese silk obi, which we are turning into a corset dress that laces all the way down the back. We’ve worked with family

“ Corsets are for those who want to celebrate their bodies, accentuate their curves, and feel utterly glamorous.”

Often Adamme will dress a client for a specific party or event. “A woman requested an outfit for the SF Opera opening and the Bal de Versailles in France. We imagined a corset bodice with interchangeable skirts—a floor length for the opera and a version that shows a bit more leg for Versailles. We explored looks she loved—the color, the neckline, or the sleeves—and then put it together to accentuate her collarbone and legs, which she felt were her best features. We sketched, consulted, and took measurements to create a pattern. We made a toile, a mock-up in a lesser fabric, for a fitting, made adjustments, and did a second fitting. Then we sewed the final piece in silk tulle, with a final fitting to make sure it was perfect. She’s set for next year!”

We asked Adamme about her range of projects. “I’m in the middle of a commission for a bride whose corset we made. She had

princess dress, to materialize a dream of what she had always wanted to wear.”

Other notable clients include Jennifer Lopez, Kelly Osbourne, and Gwen Stefani. Burlesque legend Dita von Teese appeared on the cover of Playboy magazine in a Dark Garden corset and has commissioned many more over the course of her career. Dark Garden’s work has been lauded by legendary French designer Jean Paul Gaultier and exhibited at the Smithsonian Museum of Art. Adamme is clear about her purpose. “In SF, we are a go-to for people who have felt marginalized elsewhere. We have worked really hard to create a safe place, to understand that people are trusting us with something that is very precious: their self-image.”

Adamme made her first corset at age 12.

“I knew I wanted to make pretty things for people. I was a latchkey kid who spent time at the local fabric store looking at pattern books and dreaming.” Later, she worked at Lane Bryant store for larger sizes and “saw so many beautiful women absolutely frustrated and heartbroken, because the clothing wasn’t well-

tartans. We dressed an Indian Jewish wedding using antique saris from the bride’s family to make garments for the bride, her mother, and the attendants, both male and female. We’ve done many circus weddings and Halloween weddings, which are always a delight!”

“I guess the most powerful outfit was a wedding dress for the Matrix film director Lana Wichowsky,” she recollected. “Lana had transitioned, but had grown up in a boy’s body, so she had never been able to play dress-up.

She was a super fun human to spend time with, and I felt completely honored to make the 53

HauteFASHION fitting or beautiful.” She came to San Francisco at 15 and studied fashion history and design at City College and College of Alameda, where she revelled in the millinery program. “Making hats is all about sculpting, too.”

While she worked in a fabric store, customers would often asked for seamstress recommendations and she would volunteer.

“I said yes, even when it was something complicated that I really hadn’t done before. I just figured it out, and then the clients would come back.” She founded Dark Garden in 1989.

“We have weathered a lot of ups and downs as a woman-owned business with 14 full-time seamstresses.”

She has been in Hayes Valley since 1996.

“We survived the construction of Octavia Boulevard, but COVID-19 has been the hardest.

This neighborhood has lost 20 businesses in six months,” she sighs. “San Francisco has got to show up and support those businesses which are left, or there won’t be any of us remaining.”

COVID-19 spawned a new business line for Adamme, a highly engineered, extremely protective face mask. “I wanted to create a mask that was especially safe for people who didn’t have access to N-95s. I applied my own awareness of facial structure, and did a lot of research to design one that would be truly comfortable but effective for long-wearing, running, and exercise. Mask-making helped to bring my sewing staff back into the workshop.

We have made over 1,000 masks for men and women, including a member of Congress who frequently flies cross-country. We are now getting orders from other parts of the world.”

Given the chance, where would she fly off to?

“We have a second boutique in New Orleans, alter ego to San Francisco. New Orleans is a really interesting place—many people have costume closets—and the exuberance is delightful. We’ve dressed the all-female Mardi Gras krewe called the Sirens of New Orleans and also the Merry Antoinettes whose motto is, ‘Let them throw cake!’ You can imagine how much fun that is!”

“Let them throw cake!”

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Adamme’s other happy place is in Venice during Carnival, which she attends with her dashing partner, Daniel Silviera. “We go to costume balls 10 nights in a row. It takes months to plan the outfits and figure out which pieces, including hats and wigs, can do double duty. Some ball themes are historical, others are fanciful. One of the most striking was a playing card party, with everyone in black and white and red.”

“ I have always seen beauty in every shape and size. I don’t think women should be made to feel less-than because they have curves that mannequins don’t have, or if they don’t have curves, either.”

DARK GARDEN UNIQUE CORSETRY 321 LINDEN STREET, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102, 415-431-7634 | DARKGARDEN.COM

Adamme loves working with a range of body types. “I have always seen beauty in every shape and size. I don’t think women should be made to feel less-than because they have curves that mannequins don’t have, or if they don’t have curves, either. Our ready-to-wear sizes range from XS to 5XL and will fit from a 16-inch to a 50-inch waist. We also do demicouture and completely custom designs. We make an average of about 12 corsets a week, and about 50 wedding ensembles a year.” She says, “The support and hug of the corset can really help with body dysmorphia and the anxiety that some women have about how they look. A corset places you in a position of confidence. It can be the thing that gets you through a big event.”

She adds, “We tend to think of dressing up as trivial, when in fact it’s something that humans have done since there were humans.

We have always decorated ourselves. And it’s a wonderful thing to do!”

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PROFILE

Dr. Dino Elyassnia, MD, FACS The masterful sculptor of San Francisco’s most beautiful faces

BY TERESA RODRIGUEZ • PHOTOS BY VINCENT GOTTI

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HMUA: NELLIE MUGANDA; CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MAHNAZ TAYARANI; PHOTO ASSISTANT: ANTON GOTTI; FLORAL DESIGNER: NICOLE OF SAN FRANCISCO FLORIST

IN THE RAREFIED KINGDOM of the discreet, the driving force for perfection and youthfulness can only be satisfied by plastic surgeons. In the elite's secretive world, hushed recommendations are whispered over cool glasses of crisp champagne and only shared with the wellheeled. But Haute Living, San Francisco was able to get an intimate glimpse into the magic created by one of the nation's leaders in plastic surgery, who happens to practice at 450 Sutter Street.

Meet Dr. Dino Elyassnia of The Marten Clinic of Plastic Surgery. Known as Dr. Dino or Dr. E. to his patients, Dr. Elyassnia's compassionate nature and aesthetic vision is a winning combination for those who have a more beautiful image of themselves hidden beneath sagging skin or marred by a crooked nose. It sure does help that The Marten Clinic of Plastic Surgery was selected as one of the top 10 plastic surgery clinics in the world

by Tatler magazine. For over a decade, Dr. Elyassnia has practiced aesthetic surgery of the face, breasts, and body. His overwhelming success and accolades for his facial surgery (facelift, neck lift, browlift, eyelid surgery) and rhinoplasty (nose jobs) keep Dr. Elyassnia focused on those two areas of expertise.

So, how did one of the nation's top plastic surgeons end up in San Francisco?

During the Iranian revolution, Dr. Elyassnia's family emigrated to the Bay Area. Two of his uncles were surgeons, and at an early age, Dr. Elyassnia wanted to follow their legacy. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of California, San Diego, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He received the Biology Outstanding Achievement Award only given to the top student in the entire department. He earned his medical degree at the USC School of Medicine. He graduated in the top 1 percent of his class and scored in the top 1 percent nationally on the medical licensing exam.

His incredible achievements at USC earned him a coveted spot in the general surgery and plastic surgery training program at the University of California San Francisco, one of the country's most exclusive positions. At UCSF, Dr. Elyassnia learned directly from leading surgeons and received an extensive education in plastic and reconstructive surgery. "I was lucky enough to have been trained by some of the world's best plastic surgeons.

With that training comes a responsibility to share our knowledge with other surgeons to not only work together to advance our field, but also to provide all patients with better outcomes and higher quality care," Dr. Elyassnia shares.

He pursued training with the best plastic surgeons in Manhattan on the track to become a top plastic surgeon himself. There he completed an

“Dr. Elyassnia has a great eye and sense of beauty. He is an excellent doctor and kind person and has a great team of people who try to make you feel at home and safe. I loved the work he did on my face. Everybody tells me that I look great, but nobody knows I went through a facelift.�

Aesthetic Fellowship at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, one of the country's most sought-after aesthetic fellowships. Few plastic surgeons complete additional training with such dedication and focus on aesthetic surgery. This commitment to excellence has made Dr. Elyassnia arguably the best plastic surgeon in San Francisco. His success has landed him exclusive invitations to lecture and perform surgeries across the globe.

Over a decade ago, world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Timothy J. Marten took note of Dr. Elyassnia's genius and invited him to join his practice at The Marten Clinic. W magazine recognized The Marten Clinic as one of the world's best addresses for plastic surgery. It was the perfect place for this rising star to perform his magic.

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PROFILE Why plastic surgery versus other types of surgery?

One of Dr. Elyassnia's uncles was a neurosurgeon and the other a vascular surgeon. He truly believed that he was going to follow in their footsteps.

At first, Dr. Elyassnia leaned towards heart surgery, until he got to medical school and found that he had an artistic side that would not be fully utilized as a vascular surgeon. When completing his medical training, he discovered that art and aesthetics played an essential role in his work as a surgeon.

Ironically, plastic and reconstructive surgery focuses on the body's form and function, but beauty is rarely part of the ethos.

Dr. Elyassnia explains, "It's interesting: when training in plastic and reconstructive surgery, the focus is on anatomy and technically how to perform operations, but learning how to see beatuy is not really taught.

To be a great aesthetic surgeon, I believe you have to develop an intuitive connection to art and what is considered beautiful."

“I look 15-20 years younger. The subtle changes are not recognizable to anyone, but I look refreshed and am very happy with the results. I'm not tired of hearing “you look fantastic.” Huge thank-you to

Being visually inspired, Dr. Elyassnia found beautiful faces in art and magazines. He gazed at gorgeous faces and asked himself philosophical questions like "What makes this face beautiful?" and "Why is this pretty?"

He then used his intuition to find the answer, and when he did, his heart would sing. "Love, beauty, art: the abstract ideas come with rules and a feeling. I have come to rely on those feelings when I meet with my patients and discuss what they want. First, I have mastered the rules through my extensive training; next, I work with my intuitive ideas and feelings to create the look my patients want. It's an interesting and powerful moment to try to capture. The personal joy for me comes from getting closer and closer to that concept of beauty and making my patients happy. Those are my two joys."

How does one become a top surgeon?

In 2018, Dr. Elyassnia was featured in Town & Country's Insider's Guide to Plastic Surgery. He was named "The Corrector of Billionaire Tech Necks."

And that was for an excellent reason. Dr. Elyassnia's track record speaks for itself. He was the first surgeon to perform a live preservation rhinoplasty surgery in the United States at the 55th annual Baker Gordon Symposium 58

PHOTO CREDITS: (CLOCKWISE) ©BRENT WINEBRENNER; ©JIM MCCARTHY; ©ROBERT HOLMES

Dr. Elyassnia and his wonderful team!”

in Miami, Florida, while top surgeons from around the world watched and took notes on his technique. Besides performing live surgeries, lecturing at international conferences, and training medical students, he has also coauthored and contributed to numerous medical books and publications.

He is in such high demand for his knowledge that, before COVID-19, he was lecturing at least once a month at various conferences and symposiums from Turkey to Colombia. With over 75 5-star reviews on Yelp, the numbers don't lie.

Helping people find their true selves While Dr. Elyassnia has led the charge in breast and body surgery, he has found his calling in facial surgery and rhinoplasty. He is very conscious that his patients put their lives and faith in him to do the very best. So, he believes it's time for him to focus on one specialty—the face and all aspects of it. He is authentic and sincere with his patients when discussing their goals and expectations.

"I believe my success is only as good as the bond I build with each and every patient. My greatest professional satisfaction comes from seeing patients who are thrilled with their new appearance and excited to share this with me. I believe this success is built upon an open and thorough exchange of information, so that my patients develop realistic expectations and trust in me as their surgeon. Only through such a collaborative relationship can we feel at the end that we have succeeded together," Dr. Elyassnia shares.

“I had always been highly insecure about my nose's largeness and roundness, but now I feel confident in leaving the house. I feel this operation has made my outside match my inside and am very thankful for Dr. Elyassnia.”

He listens to his patients and knows that his goal is to give them the improved vision they have for themselves. There is an art and science to that as well. For Dr. Elyassnia, it's a collaborative effort to listen to his patient and really understand their needs and expectations. "Rule number one is making the patient happy. I might have my own views of beauty and what I would do, but my job—and what brings me joy—is giving my patients the face, chin, neck, and nose they want." His results are harmonious and balanced with all the other features on his patient's face. The outcomes are seamlessly beautiful.⁠ 59

When it comes to my practice, I have three driving forces that I always strive for: VISION: Having the right aesthetic sense to know what exact changes will create the most beauty, youth, and harmony for each patient. No amount of technical expertise can overcome a lack of aesthetic vision.

PRECISION: This is about having the focus to execute a highly detailed aesthetic plan, perfectly, every single time without compromise. This is never feeling like I left the operating room without performing my absolute best.

INTEGRITY: This one is fairly simple, treating all my patients with the utmost dignity and respect. To be not just exceedingly honest, but also thorough with the communication of all relevant information so that each patient can make the best decision for themselves.

Dr. Elyassnia’s Personal Life With over 15,000 followers on his Instagram account and adorable photos of his life outside of the operating room, it is not hard to fall in love with him and his family. He was lucky enough to meet the love of his life and marry her. She, too, came from Iran as a child. His wife, Khazar, knows a lot about compassion and giving. Dr. Elyassnia shares that becoming a surgeon can consume the human part of a person. "We are so focused on getting into med school, the mechanics of surgery, and driven to achieve; it can beat the life out of you."

Khazar brings life back to Dr. Elyassnia with her kindness and generosity.

"She packs bags for the homeless, and she's taken me shopping for gifts for underprivileged families. She has been my guiding light. And I am so thankful for her."

Khazar and Dr. Elyassnia have the most adorable Yorkie named Cookie, who also gets featured on Instagram. It truly showcases Dr. Elyassnia's incredible benevolence for his family and patients alike.

You can follow Dr. Elyassnia on Instagram @drdinoelyassnia. Contact him at dinomd.com or call 415-677-9937

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“When I met Khazar, I was simply awestruck. She was one of a kind— passionate, brave, and intelligent in a way like I had never seen. Now eight years later, this dynamic superwoman has been leading me down life's path ever since, showing me the real meaning of life and love.”

Ann Getty

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In Memoriam:

ANN GETTY Devoted Philanthropist passionate arts benefactor leaves her mark on the world SHE WAS A WOMAN WHOSE DECISIONS IN THE ART WORLD commanded profound impact on the global art scene and whose elegance and delicate nature impressed societies at large: this was Mrs. Ann Gilbert Getty. Global arts patron, philanthropist, former publisher, and renowned interior designer, Getty left her mark on this world in notable spirit. Her larger-than-life, altruistic heart, deep sense of wonder, and stylistic touch were just a few of the many gifts she bestowed on all who had the privilege to know her. On September 14, 2020, Getty suffered a heart attack at her San Francisco residence while having dinner with her family. She died later that evening at a local hospital. Her death rippled devastation through her family, dear friends, and those internationally whose lives she dearly touched. It was through Ann’s incredible warmth and luminosity of wonder that she so deeply connected with those privileged to receive her support.

Born on March 11, 1941, in Gustine, California, Ann Gilbert Getty spent her childhood working alongside her brothers on the peach and walnut farm her European immigrant parents built. Through this experience, she developed her affection for the land, agriculture, and exploration into the wonders of science. She nurtured that love through her studies at UC Berkeley, pursuing biology and anthropology coursework. One of Getty’s greatest adventures was her collaboration with UC Berkeley anthropologist Tim White and their dig in the Great Rift Valley in Ethiopia. She grew passionate about science and the origin of life. Her curiosity for this discipline invited a life fueled by inquisitiveness and marvel.

This keen farm girl married into one of America’s wealthiest families and transformed herself into one of the nation’s esteemed interior designers, publishers, and philanthropists. While working a part-time job during her college days at the famed Joseph Magnin department store in downtown San Francisco, she accepted an invitation to enjoy an evening together with

BY MARIA CASTELLUCCI PHOTTOS BY DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY

friends at a local North Beach bar, La Rocca’s, where she was introduced to her future husband, Gordon Getty, son of industrialist J. Paul Getty, scion to the Getty Oil fortune, and at one point the world’s richest man. The couple eloped to Las Vegas and tied the knot on Christmas Day, 1964.

From that moment on, her life changed forever. From tractor driving and walnut harvests to gracing infinite red carpet galas, Gordon and Ann Getty led a charitable life of service and opulence. The grandeur of their Pacific Heights mansion received the likes of Barak Obama, Governor Gavin Newsom, Luciano Pavarotti, and international royals.

Ann became known for her elaborate dinner parties, impeccably curated regardless of the guests. An invitation to the Getty residence led to an experience of a lifetime with humble hearts amid museum-like quality. Mrs. Getty favored intimate gatherings: engaging in lively conversations over politics, religion, and, of course, science. The place settings were rimmed in gold, the dining chairs were upholstered in the finest fabrics, and guests were delighted by every delicacy imaginable. Despite all the grandeur, Ann Getty remained a humble farm girl at heart.

Decades of glittering galas and red carpet debuts never defined her. A cultural benefactor herself, Ann Getty refused to be categorized as simply a socialite. Her intellect and wit charmed the boards of the Metropolitan Museum in New York, the New York Public Library, and New York University. Among these, the Gettys were patrons of the San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Opera, UC Benioff Children’s Hospital, Festival Napa Valley, and the Leakey Foundation, among others.

Art, culture, science, music, and public health fueled their passions. The Gettys gave with open hearts and inspired droves. Their exquisite San Francisco mansion was a regular on the fundraising circuit; their grandiose residence serving as a venue for the benefit of those organizations near 63

Ann Getty and Nancy Pelosi

Ann Getty

Ann Getty

Ann Getty and Maria Manetti Shrem

Beth Townsend, Ann Getty, and Maria Quiros

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and dear to their hearts. In support of the Democratic movement, countless political figures graced the Getty mansion. Their extraordinary political, social, and philanthropic efforts became the cornerstone of their charitable calling.

An avid reader, Ann Getty loved classical literature.

In 1985, she and British publisher, George Weidenfeld created the Wheatland Corporation and bought Grove Press which published trailblazing authors including Jean Genet, Eugène Ionesco, and Bertolt Brecht, among others. Eventually, she purchased Grove Publishing for $2 million and invested another $15 million into it before transforming it into Grove Weidenfeld. “I’m a publisher, because it’s a cover for my indulgence,” Mrs. Getty told the New York Times in 1989. “I love to read all day. But I come from nice Puritan stock, and I grew up believing that you have to work all day, so I made reading my work.”

Several years later, the style icon and superb design enthusiast established Ann Getty & Associates. She launched the Ann Getty House Collection in 2003, highlighting pieces from her personal collection as well as handcrafted, luxurious faux furs. These treasures were hand-picked from her extensive travels and showcased her attention to detail. Ann’s worldliness inspired the creation of her pieces. Aboard the “Jetty,” the Gettys’ Boeing 727, their jet-set lifestyle propelled Ann to think outside the box, gaining vision and influence from their trips around the world. Self-taught in theory, Ann’s design styles never failed to lack historical importance and scholarly interest.

Always putting their fortune towards a beautiful purpose, the Gettys maintained a stalwart commitment to excellence. The various organizations they supported left an indelible mark on the cultures and societies they influenced. Being an operatic singer and conductor himself, Gordon Getty studied at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Lovers of music, Ann and Gordon Getty were tremendous patrons of the San Francisco Symphony and San Francisco Opera.

A fond friend of the Getty family, famed musical conductor laureate Michael Tilson Thomas shared his heartfelt condolences with Haute Living, San Francisco: “Ann was a very devoted person to all of the great projects that she and Gordon supported and to all of the artists, scientists, and other people of remarkable accomplishment whom she admired. I feel very lucky that, over the years, I had some wonderful, quiet times with Ann to appreciate just how witty and brilliant she was as a person. She was always reading, studying, and seeing incredible connections between different disciplines. She made their fabulous house welcoming to so many people.

All of us felt so relaxed at the Getty residence—their many Sunday dinners are memories I will always treasure. She was a true friend and wonderful person.”

Festival Napa Valley, a stunning, 10-day music festival in the heart of California’s wine country, was another organization near and dear to the Getty family. World class musicians from around the globe performed at our most iconic wineries.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer Rick Walker spoke warmly of Ann Getty: “Ann Getty's passing is a loss, not just to those who knew her, but to the greater community that benefited from her countless acts of generosity and kindness. We at Festival Napa Valley were lucky to have Ann's unwavering support from the very beginning. We will miss her profoundly.”

Ann Getty and Gordon Getty

Ann Getty

Ann Getty and Gordon Getty

Ann Getty

“Ann Getty's passing is a loss, not just to those who knew her, but to the greater community that benefited from her countless acts of generosity and kindness.”

Ann Getty also demonstrated great interest in early childhood development, which propelled her to start Playgroup, an accredited private school harbored inside the Getty residence. This invitation-only preschool saw the likes of San Francisco’s elite little tikes. Her love for children inspired this project, opening her heart and home in ways her friends and colleagues could only admire.

Her unique set of talents, skills, and strengths deeply touched people in profound ways. Despite her prominence and San Francisco stature, she never lost sight of her humble beginnings. From the hinterlands to adorning the red carpet, Ann rose through the ranks of society with the utmost grace, passion, and curiosity. Behind every powerful man is an extraordinary woman: Ann was not only extraordinary, but a benevolent and devoted friend, wife, mother, grandmother, and steward.

Ann Gilbert Getty, aristocratic in her own right, will be sorely missed. Her legacy of extensive and tireless charity will undoubtedly inspire the next generation. Her humility, elegance, and wonder for life’s greatest miracles through science have inspired many other women to open their hearts, to pursue their curiosity, and to walk with dignity.

Ann Getty is survived by her husband, Gordon; their sons, Peter (Shannon), John, and William (Vanessa); and her grandchildren, Dexter, Ava Getty, Ivy, Nicholas, Alexander, and Veronica.

Ann Getty and Ken Fulk

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PROFILE

Leslie Sbrocco

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ThePivotPros It takes optimism, enthusiasm, and a commitment to community to successfully navigate changes in today’s hospitality industry.

These three Bay Area icons exhibit such qualities, each continuing to find purpose in her devotion to her craft.

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

PHOTO COURTESY OF KQED

PHOTO COURTESY OF KQED

Few industries have been as negatively impacted of late as the hospitality sector, particularly dining and travel. The change in norms necessitates modifications on all sides of the spectrum.

Survival skills for those within the industry require ingenuity, spunk, and a talent for gear-switching. The oft-overused term is “pivot,” and these three hospitality heroes have successfully pivoted, pirouetted, and spun to the point of dizziness. With boundless energy and optimism, each has persevered to continue providing fans and admirers with entertaining diversion, inspiration, and hope for a brighter tomorrow.

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PROFILE

Chef, teacher, restaurateur, cookbook author, television personality, and travel guide: Joanne Weir has worn all these hats, often at the same time. It’s a résumé that exhausts even the most energetic go-getter. But the San Francisco-based nomad and proprietor of Sausalito’s Copita restaurant, who admits to an insatiable drive to always do more, has found a new calm amidst shelter-in-place. “I’ve learned that I am great at entertaining myself, and I don’t have to always be on a plane going someplace to enjoy myself,” said Weir who, new outlook notwithstanding, eagerly awaits a return to the travel that has defined her career. “I’ve been busy studying Italian, doing Peloton yoga, and riding my stationary bike in my office. I’ve also been cooking a lot.”

Weir caught both the travel and cooking bugs as a young girl. Her dad nicknamed her “the wandering gypsy” due to her penchant for exploration. Although she often felt deprived of the packaged foods and Oreos that her friends consumed, she was savvy enough to know that the “old-fashioned,” homemade meals and desserts made by her mom and both sets of her farmsteader grandparents were to be appreciated. She claims it was a simple mom-made, salt-sprinkled, garden-grown tomato sandwich that led to her lifelong love affair with food. She was six years old at the time.

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Places, present an artful and entertaining blend of her three greatest loves (four if you count her husband, Joe): food, instruction, and travel.

The shows are filmed almost exclusively on the Greek island of Syros, northern Spain’s wine region of Rioja, Italy, eastern Washington’s Walla Walla Wine Country, and California’s Sonoma Wine Country. She launched 13 new episodes in January, and 13 more episodes of Plates & Places will release January 2021, providing inspiration and anticipation for when the world once again opens up. “Think of this show as a virtual master class that’s approachable, accessible, and achievable without the need for a passport or even leaving your own kitchen to join me in mine.” said Weir.

In the non-travel meantime, Weir proposes that those with wanderlust study a language if time permits. She herself spends an hour each day on Babbel or Duolingo, learning Italian in preparation for a return to Europe. “It’s a fun distraction,” said Weir. “I can’t wait to use my newly found skills when I’m back.” She also encourages those with time on their hands to head to the kitchen to partake in one of her Instagram or Facebook Live cooking classes where participants interact with one another while learning a new recipe. “One of the most difficult things during this pandemic is the isolation,” said Weir. “Being a part of a live event, knowing that there are others there with you and you’re not alone, feels good.”

Joanne at home, in front of her majolica collection. She bought her first piece at age 24 during her first trip to Europe

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) ©THOMAS J. STORY; (BOTTOM) ©MELISSA MCARDLE

Joanne at the San Francisco Ferry Terminal farmers market

During college and afterward, she experimented in the kitchen. Her arroz con pollo became renowned within her friend group. As the California food revolution gathered steam, she journeyed west from her East Coast home and, without any professional experience, landed the weekend chef position at a tennis club. She soon kicked things up a notch. “I realized that I didn't want to be a tennis club chef forever, so I decided to spend a year getting a Master Chef Diploma studying in France with Madeleine Kamman,” said Weir. She quickly found herself a trusted friend to the esteemed French chef, and the two enjoyed a close relationship until Kamman’s death last year.

Alice Waters, another cherished friend, hired Weir shortly thereafter, and Weir had to pinch herself each time she stepped into the Chez Panisse kitchen. It was there that Weir acknowledged the pleasure she derived from teaching the newer chefs. After five years, she departed to become a fulltime cooking instructor. “Teaching others how to cook was and is incredibly rewarding to me,” said Weir, who has since forged a worldwide reputation as a leader in exotic culinary journeys where students learn not only about local foods, but also about the cultures. “Though my classes are focused on food, they’re really about exploring and living life to the fullest.”

Her popular and award-winning PBS cooking shows, Joanne Weir’s Cooking Class and Plates &

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) ©THOMAS J. STORY; (BOTTOM) ©MELISSA MCARDLE

WANDERING GYPSY: JOANNE WEIR

THIRSTY GIRL: LESLIE SBROCCO Engaging, humorous, and inspiring, Leslie Sbrocco is known for her entertaining approach to wine, food, and travel. She’s the founder of multi-media company Thirsty Girl, LLC, and author of multiple books about wine. Her first book, Wine for Women: A Guide to Buying, Pairing and Sharing Wine, won the coveted Georges Duboeuf Best Wine Book of the Year award. She was a featured judge on the PBS national series, The Winemakers, and created wine content for the hit TBS show Cougartown.

She is a regular guest on national television shows such as NBC’s Today Show. Locally, the award-winning speaker, consultant, best-selling author, and Emmy-Award-winning television host is best known for her PBS show, Check Please! Bay Area. She was just hitting her stride with her new nationally syndicated PBS show, 100 Days, Drinks, Dishes & Destinations, when the world changed.

Sbrocco spent two years bringing the travel show to life, launching the 13-part series in fall of 2019 to 90 percent of the American PBS market and airing on more than 300 stations. She had just finished filming the 2020 shows when COVID-19 hit. This virtual passport to palatepleasing experiences and cultural exploration found the intrepid Sbrocco sampling sausage in Vienna, tasting whisky in Nashville, and savoring goulash in Hungary. With glass and fork in hand, she ventured through castles, ancient hot springs, beaches, and bustling city streets, and she loved every minute of it. But with filming currently on pause for both of her television shows, Sbrocco has managed to gracefully and successfully transition her business, while awaiting a return to travel.

“For the past two decades, I’ve made my

living filming television shows, being a professional wine and spirits speaker, a wine author, consultant, and judge,” said the 20year resident of bucolic Petaluma. She and her husband chose the Sonoma County hamlet for its airport proximity and country-like vibe. “All of those pursuits required copious amounts of travel. So, my whole professional life changed in March 2020. It’s been very tough to rebuild, but I’ve pivoted quickly. My speaking now takes the form of virtual tastings for consumer and corporate clients, educating through online videos, and using social media to reach my audience, such as my Leslie LIVE! program every Wednesday on Instagram and Facebook, where I share my love of wine in interviews with a variety of wine partners.”

A regular guest host aboard European cruise lines such as AmaWaterways, Sbrocco also created a program called Vino Voyages for which a planned trip to Portugal this fall has been rescheduled to 2021. “Travelers like myself will always feel the need to go somewhere,” said Sbrocco who is consistently on the road, work assignment or not.

“My sister lives in France and my husband’s brother lives in Brazil.

My dad was an airline pilot and I grew up on a plane. I think the desire to experience the world, be it near home or afar, will make 2021 a year of recovery for the travel industry. Will it come back right away? No, but people will

“For the past two decades, I’ve made my living filming television shows, being a professional wine and spirits speaker, a wine author, consultant, and judge...so, my whole professional life changed in March 2020.”

get on planes, trains, and ships again. It may be 2022 that it starts to feel normal though.”

Over the next several months, Sbrocco plans to travel to Monterey, Paso Robles, and Portland to visit friends and soak in the serene coasts of California and Oregon. She recommends to her fans these sorts of drivable destinations as wanderlust panacea. “Just having a destination, a plan for somewhere to go, helps mentally to make it through these difficult times.”

Leslie on location shooting 100 Days, Drinks, Dishes & Destinations

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PROFILE Chef Dominique in the Atelier Crenn dining room

SOULFUL SHOOTING STAR: CHEF DOMINIQUE CRENN Chef Dominique Crenn’s muse has always been her country and region of origin. The rugged coastline and blush-hued sand and rock of France’s Brittany Coast are whimsically and poetically represented in the beautiful dishes she serves at Atellier Crenn. Two other San Francisco restaurants bearing her surname (each named not for herself, but in tribute to her father) also reflect the mood and vibe of the Pink Granite Coast. Yet despite this homage to all things Brittany, Crenn calls San Francisco her true home. She arrived 22 years ago and immediately fell in love with the city’s inclusive spirit. And the city fell right back in love with her.

It was here that Crenn began her formal training as a chef. She moved from France in 1988 and began working under the tutelage of San Francisco luminaries Jeremiah Tower and Mark Franz for more than two years at the celebrated restaurant Stars. Crenn then went on to make history as the first female executive chef in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she headed the kitchen at the InterContinental Hotel. After having spent a decade away from San Francisco, she returned in 2008 to head the kitchen at Luce, in San Francisco’s InterContinental Hotel, earning her first Michelin star in 2009 and again in 2010.

The stars continued to shine upon her. Driven by a passion to create a deeply personal project, Crenn opened Atelier Crenn in January 2011. An ode to “poetic culinaria” where she could express 70

her heritage, Atelier Crenn achieved its first Michelin Star within a year. The following year, Crenn made history again when Atelier Crenn received its second Michelin Star, becoming the first female chef in the US to receive this honor.

In November 2018, Crenn beat her own record and became the first female chef in the US to receive three Michelin Stars.

In 2015, Crenn opened her second San Francisco restaurant, Petit Crenn, a more casual setting in which she presents the core of her culinary upbringing and inspiration. An ode to the home cooking of Brittany, Petit Crenn serves as an homage to the dinner parties held

by Crenn's mother and grandmother. In 2018, Crenn opened Bar Crenn, a wine bar situated next to Atelier Crenn that pays homage to the Parisian salons of the early twentieth century.

Within its first year, Bar Crenn received one Michelin star.

With artistry at the forefront, cuisine as craft, and community always as inspiration, each of Crenn’s eateries is a reflection of Crenn’s life story. Memories of a happy childhood, one in which she was entranced by the intricacies and beauty of fine cuisine, define her artistic culinary style. The warm family life and strong sense of community that she enjoyed as a child continue to define her outlook and philosophy during what have been the most trying of times for the hospitality industry. Over the past months, like others within the industry, Crenn and her team had to pivot to a new way of thinking. “The main idea was to provide for the community,” said Crenn who, in partnership with Glide Memorial

Church, provides daily meals prepared at Petit Crenn for those in need. “We wanted to create great food for those who needed it most, and we fed doctors, nurses, women, children, and those who are constantly at risk of dying of hunger.”

As the partnership with Glide continues, Crenn waits out the long hospitality pause.

Unlike other restauranteurs who have recreated and reimagined their service models, Crenn remains true to her original vision. “We will not spend this time looking for ways to change who we are,” said Crenn, whose creativity and passion can be further explored via Netflix's popular Chef ’s Table series in which she appears in season two. “We will stay true to what we believe in, and we will reopen our dining rooms when it is safe.”

As of press time, Atelier Crenn offers outdoor seating as well as Crenn Kits Luxe, a 6-course meal complete with step-by-step instructions for guests to assemble their own dishes at home. For the more adventurous cook, Crenn’s recipes can be found in her debut cookbook Atelier Crenn: Metamorphosis of Taste.

“What keeps me going is to give back—to my team and my community—because we all contribute to one another’s success and wellbeing,” said Crenn. “All I have to do is look at humanity and know that the work my team and I have been doing for years is right. People need to realize that what matters now is what has always mattered: our communities and the idea that food is medicine and that we must support local business instead of a world of convenience.

If we do these things, we can truly enjoy life once again.”

PHOTO CREDITS: ©JORDAN WISE

Chef Dominique working with her kitchen team at Atelier Crenn

VANCOUVER’S EXCLUSIVE PENTHOUSE AT THE HOTEL GEORGIA RESIDENCES A WORLD CLASS OFFERING

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Finished new in 2019 by Mitchell Freedland Design, this beautiful home provides approximately 7,200 square feet of living on one expansive level, boasting 360 degree city, ocean and mountain views from five walk-out terraces including an outdoor summer lounge with gas fireplace and a covered, heated dining area with built-in barbecue.

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6040 GLENEAGLES DRIVE | WEST VANCOUVER, CANADA | $10,998,000 CAD A waterfront masterpiece, this breathtaking new contemporary waterfront residence is perfectly nestled on this spectacular Gleneagles property, offering complete privacy and the most incredible 'Beach House' & West Coast experience.

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MALCOLM HASMAN

Angell Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd. 203-1544 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC, V7V 1H7, CANADA 604-290-1679 malcolm@malcolmhasman.com

JASON SOPROVICH

Royal LePage Sussex - Jason Soprovich 2397 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC, V7V 1K9, CANADA M: 604-817-8812 | O: 604-913-4068 www.soprovich.com

PROFILE

San SanFrancisco's Francisco's

FASHION FASHION ICONOCLASTS ICONOCLASTS These eight trendsetters redefine style

BY BECCA HENSLEY

Fashion flair? It won’t be found on a rack. A stellar sense of style comes from the inside and flows out with grace and gusto. It’s plucky and individualistic, but also sensible and elegant. It breaks rules and sets trends. It reveres beauty, creativity, and attitude. It’s a poem of texture, color, and shape conveyed by the wearer. It brings smiles and drops jaws. Cheers to these eight San Franciscans who wear it well.

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MAYOR WILLIE BROWN What is your most timeless fashion piece?

A sky cap, head piece, or hat What makes you the happiest to wear and why?

Shoes that fit!

When you're off to a festive occasion, what one thing will you don?

I always wear a snappy, colorful belt.

What is your most treasured fashion item bought while traveling?

I love to buy shirts, and have a collection from Rome, Paris, and London.

Why? Because they are the one thing that doesn’t have to be altered What should every man have in his closet?

A blue blazer.

ALLISON SPEER CEO of Allison Speer Public Relations and Events What is your most timeless fashion piece and why?

My black Hermès Togo 30-inch Birkin, which I received for my 30th birthday. It was a gift from my boyfriend at the time: it’s 20 years old and looks brand new. That is a sign of timelessness. Also, a Tiffany & Co.® Elsa Peretti gold cuff which I got 15 years ago. It feels as current today as ever.

What makes you the happiest to wear and why?

I love wearing anything by Andrew Gn. These colorful pieces, made with beautiful fabrics in Paris, make me feel incredibly glamorous.

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) COURTESY OF OFFICE OF WILLIE BROWN; (BOTTOM) ©DREW ALITZER PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) COURTESY OF OFFICE OF WILLIE BROWN; (BOTTOM) ©DREW ALITZER PHOTOGRAPHY

When you're off to a festive occasion, what one thing will you don?

My wedding ring! Most days I just wear my wedding band, but when I go out, I put on my ring and other jewelry, which makes me feel special.

What is your most treasured fashion item bought while traveling?

I bought my black Hermès Evelyn cross body bag in Paris. It’s perfect for travel, as it fits your wallet, passport, essential cosmetics, and phone.

What would you wear for an important Zoom meeting?

I like to wear color or patterns for Zoom meetings. I love Elder Statesman, Gucci, or Valentino sweaters.

Where do you see fashion trends going in 2021?

I think people are really into casual lounge wear, comfort, and low key looks—nothing flashy.

What's your favorite fashion quote?

“Don’t be like the rest of them, darling,” by Coco Chanel.

What four designers, living or dead, would you like to invite for dinner?

Oscar de la Renta, Coco Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, and Tom Ford.

What should every woman have in her closet?

A great black Chanel jacket which can be worn with jeans or a skirt. It’s the ultimate power look.

What is something you wear sometimes that might surprise someone?

Sweatpants. I love chic, casual, comfy, old school ones for running errands.

So we can dream for the future, what fashion items do you pack in your airplane carry-on bag?

I always take my Hermès cashmere wrap on trips. It can serve as a blanket and an eye mask. I use Walker Valentine travel bags.

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PROFILE JOEL GOODRICH Luxury real estate agent What is your most timeless fashion piece and why?

The black sequined jacket I bought in Paris after attending the Chanel show and luncheon during Paris Fashion Week. I bought it after seeing Karl Lagerfeld wear it when he came out on the runway to take his bow after the show.

What is your most treasured fashion item bought while traveling?

The Dolce Gabbana Alta Moda (haute couture) jacket I bought in New York after attending the show the night before in the Rainbow Room. Liza Minelli sang, Michael Feinstein played the piano. The models were walking through the audience over a glass catwalk during Liza’s serenade. There was one jacket I had to have! I wore it to the opera’s opening gala that year.

What is something you wear sometimes that might surprise someone?

My classic real estate business look is tailored tan slacks, blue blazer, white shirt with monogram, and, of course, a Hermès pocket square!

So we can dream for the future, what fashion items do you pack in your airplane carry-on bag?

Whether it's a very social trip with black tie events or a casual resort trip with summer wear, I pack lots of accessories. It’s all about the accessories!

SONYA MOLODETSKAYA Fashion maverick What is your most timeless fashion piece and why?

Tom Ford Molly 61 red sequin jersey dress from his SS14 collection. The dress was designed as a tribute to Jay-Z and worn by Beyoncé while on tour as an homage to Tom Ford. I love it because of its interesting design and because it stands out and has a story! It also makes a perfect holiday dress. I wear this dress once a year around Christmas time.

What makes you the happiest to wear and why?

Colors! Colors! Colors! I love to experiment with colors, putting them together in the most unexpected ways, and it always works for me. Fashion is probably the only game where you are free from any kind of rules.

What is your most treasured fashion item bought while traveling?

A Christian Lacroix A-line strapless dress. I bought it in Las Vegas years ago.

They used to have a store in one of the hotels, probably Caesars Palace. Over the years, my body changed size quite a few times [laughing], so when I got bigger, I wore it as a skirt, and again as a dress when I lost weight.

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What would you wear for an important Zoom meeting?

For business, my classic blue blazer and white shirt with monogram for a Zoom party. (Versace shirt, of course!)

Where do you see fashion trends going in 2021?

I believe fashion may be a bit subdued over the next year. Then, we will see a repeat of the 1920s. It will be the most exuberant and over-the-top fashion decade ever as people want to start experiencing life again.

What's your favorite fashion quote?

When I was honored to be put on a San Francisco Best Dressed List for a third time, they asked for a 1-line quote on my style. I said, "My style is very PC: Versace, Pucci, and Chanel!"

What four designers, living or dead, would you like to invite for dinner?

Karl Lagerfeld, Gianni Versace, Yves Saint Lauren, and Calvin Klein.

What should every man have in his closet?

Lots of Versace!

What is something you wear sometimes that might surprise someone?

Anything black!

What four designers, living or dead, would you like to invite for dinner?

Creativity Director of Balmain Olivier Rousteing, Yves Saint Laurent, John Galliano, and Creative Director of Bottega Veneta Daniel Lee, my latest obsession.

What should every woman have in her closet?

Sequins and feathers!

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) COURTESY OF JOEL GOODRICH; (BOTTOM) COURTESY OF SONYA MOLODETSKAYA

When you're off to a festive occasion, what one thing will you don?

A fabulous jacket brooch.

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) COURTESY OF JOEL GOODRICH; (BOTTOM) COURTESY OF SONYA MOLODETSKAYA

What makes you the happiest to wear and why?

Pucci! The colors are amazing.

MARY BETH SHIMMON Style trailblazer What is your most timeless fashion piece and why?

I think of most of the pieces in my closet as being timeless. I don’t understand people who wear something once and then want to sell it. I spend a lot of time each season looking at the collections and deciding which pieces to buy. I only buy things that I really love and that reflect my personality. The timelessness comes from that connection, so what is timeless for me will be different from that of another.

My most favorite (and therefore most timeless) piece is a Chanel dress with 100 hours of hand embroidery by Lesage and with navy and black paillettes and a muslin ruffle trim that adds the perfect touch of femininity. I first wore it to the 2014 San Francisco Ballet Opening Night Gala and later chose it when I was fortunate to be drawn by David Downton, the renowned fashion illustrator.

If we return to having events, I will wear it for the opening of the upcoming fashion exhibition “Gabrielle Chanel” at the de Young Museum. I love it and will never let it go.

What makes you the happiest to wear and why?

I’m happiest when I am wearing something that I feel is representative of me, and even better is if I don’t look like anyone else. I wore this Delpozo gown—a trapeze silhouette, striped silk organza, with orange bows—to the 2017 San Francisco Opera Ball. The yellow ribbon and rhinestone earrings are vintage from the Oscar de la Renta runway. This look may not be for everyone, and that is a good thing. Needless to say, I didn’t look like anyone else!

Where do you see fashion trends going in 2021?

In the early days of staying at home, there was a lot of discussion about how people might place more value on comfort, practicality, and sustainability.

However, now that it’s been going on a while, with no end in sight, I think people miss dressing up. They may go big with a lot of color and volume. Sustainability is important, but dressing up is sustainable, too, if you wear what you already have!

What's your favorite fashion quote?

“A girl should be two things: who and what she wants,” by Coco Chanel.

What four designers, living or dead, would you like to invite for dinner?

Gabrielle Chanel, Hubert de Givenchy, Monsieur Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent.

I like to always be learning and could learn so much from them about many different things. I would also probably lure them to my closet and try to get them to style me.

What should every woman have in her closet?

People should have in their closet only things that make them happy.

When you're off to a festive occasion, what one thing will you don?

I almost always wear a piece of vintage costume jewelry, because it is unique and fun. It is probably my only fashion addiction. I’ve never met a tassel I didn’t like.

What is your most treasured fashion item bought while traveling?

I try not to do too much shopping for fashion in other cities, because I want to support our local retailers in San Francisco. Since our foggy city is not the place to buy casual resort wear, I have a lot of fun shopping for that in places like St. Barts and Mykonos. I’ve still not been to St. Tropez, but I can imagine that it will be dangerous.

PHOTO CREDIT: ©KEVIN NORD, MODA OPERANDI

PHOTO CREDIT: ©KEVIN NORD, MODA OPERANDI

What is something you wear sometimes that might surprise someone?

I wear my clothes over and over. I don’t mind being seen in the same thing many times. I’m wearing it because I love it!

So we can dream for the future, what fashion items do you pack in your airplane carry-on bag?

My vintage costume jewelry. Some of it is valuable, mostly because it is irreplaceable.

What would you wear for an important Zoom meeting?

I actually wore a Carolina Herrera ball gown to a Zoom meeting with Neiman Marcus and Wes Gordon, creative director of Carolina Herrera. I found a photo of a colorful English garden to use as my background. It was a couple of months into the stay-at-home order, and I just felt like it.

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PROFILE CHRISTOPHER J. MEZA Realtor What is your most timeless fashion piece and why?

A navy blue blazer that fits impeccably. It goes with almost everything, travels well, and can be dressed up or down.

What makes you the happiest to wear and why?

Putting on formal attire makes me happy! I have quite a few different dinner jackets that play on pattern or fabric. Once I’m suited up in them, I feel both elegant and ready for an incredible evening. I’ve a respectable go-to collection of formal wear at the ready.

When you're off to a festive occasion, what one thing will you don?

I have a collection of pocket squares that add panache!

What would you wear for an important Zoom meeting?

A great sport coat, a nice shirt, and dark jeans. My morning routine consists of email, workout, shower, and then I’m nicely dressed for the day. I’m Zoomready by 8 a.m.

Where do you see fashion trends going in 2021?

I hope fashion will be fun, because we could use it in these times—and because I like to dress. I hope that everyone will retire their safe-at-home outfits and opt for putting on wonderful clothes again!

What's your favorite fashion quote?

It’s not strictly limited to fashion, but Oscar Wilde said that he had the simplest of tastes: he was always satisfied by the best.

CHRISTINE SUPPES Fashion and lifestyle writer What is your most timeless fashion piece?

A light beige Chanel trench coat.

What makes you happiest to wear?

At this point in history (pandemic), silky palazzo pants and a comfortable top with pockets to carry my glasses and cell phone make me comfortable and happy.

When you're off to a festive occasion, what one thing will you don?

I have some lovely jewelry which only comes out for festive occasions, so I can say with certainty that jewelry is my answer.

What do you wear to a Zoom meeting?

I wear minimal makeup and a pretty top or sweater.

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Where do you see fashion trends going in 2021?

If we are still social distancing (and there is every reason to believe we will be), I see loungewear becoming increasingly important. We will want comfortable clothes to wear around home. Some designers think we will want bulky cocoon style coats; but I think that is a mistake, as they are difficult to store in our closets.

What four designers, living or dead, would you like to invite for dinner?

I have been fortunate to have dinner with many of my favorites, so I will focus on the designers I love whom I have not had the good fortune to meet: Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Coco Chanel, and Balenciaga.

What should every woman have in her closet?

A trench coat, black pants, a black turtleneck sweater, and black low-heeled shoes. My luggage was once lost at Charles de Gaulle Airport for several days, and I felt very comfortable wearing the above (which I’d worn on the plane) everywhere I went.

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) ©CASEY FLANIGAN/IMAGESPACE; (BOTTOM) COURTESY OF CHRISTINE SUPPES

What is your most treasured fashion item bought while traveling?

I bought a beautiful orange woven belt with great leatherwork and a solid brass buckle. I love that it’s such a great color, and it makes me think of the trip. I purchased the belt at a haberdasher in Provincetown, MA over the Christmas holiday.

MARK CALVANO Real estate developer When you're off to a festive occasion, what one thing will you don?

Usually a brooch.

What is your most treasured fashion item bought while traveling?

One-of-a-kind, hand-printed sport coats while traveling in Venice, Italy.

So we can dream for the future, what fashion items do you pack in your airplane carry-on bag?

My jewelry, of course.

What would you wear for an important Zoom meeting?

Things are pretty casual these days, so my polo shirts seem to the right fit for the times.

Where do you see fashion trends going in 2021?

It's hard to say, but people should dress up, feel better about themselves, and share good energy with others. That's what I intend to do.

What's your favorite fashion quote?

"Be yourself, everyone else is taken,� by Oscar Wilde.

What four designers, living or dead, would you like to invite for dinner?

Karl, Gianni, Ralph, and Alexander, all cooked up by Coco.

What should every man have in his closet?

To each his own favorite piece, hopefully not skulls or skeletons.

Holiday FASHION SPOTLIGHT PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) COURTESY OF MARK CALVANO; (BOTTOM) COURTESY OF ARANYANI

From ARANYANI, India's most exclusive atelier, this handcrafted clutch evokes the best traditions of the East and the West Evening Clutch, Velvet The evening clutch takes the cues from the simple and elegant lines that are part of the architectural beauty of the palaces of Rajasthan. Romancing simplicity with royalty, the bag is made of the finest Italian viscose velvet and lined with the finest deep red color French calf-Italian finish leather. $1,050 | aranyani.com

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BY GAIL GOLDBERG

JEWELRY DESIGNER LAUREN HARWELL GODFREY HAS THE MIDAS TOUCH

HauteART Chubby talisman hoop earrings, $8,500

THE PAST SIX MONTHS HAVE BEEN surreal ones for fine jewelry designer Lauren Harwell Godfrey. In the midst of a pandemic and with the spotlight laserfocused on Black Lives Matter, her 3-yearold jewelry line Harwell Godfrey (HG) has flourished—unlike hundreds of other small businesses that are barely hanging on or have been forced to close.

You see, the keen interest in Blackowned companies and designers threw heaps of attention and shoppers HG's way. A-listers like Selena Gomez, Renee Elise Goldsberry, and Meena Harris began stacking on the statement-making pieces.

The New York Times did a feature. And social media has been blowing up.

The Marin designer and married mom of one human and one dog, has been making the most of her heightened profile.

As her business blooms, she's prioritizing giving back to the community. In fact, her black onyx heart ($2,500) has already raised more than $100,000 for the NAACP. 78

Lapis stone medallion with rainbow bead foundation necklace, $5,590

ALL JEWELRY IMAGES COURTESY OF HARWELL GODFREY

The Black designer's fine jewelry collection is rising and shining

Lauren Harwell Godfrey

Envisioned as a healing talisman, the eye-catching, 18-karat gold, diamond, and black onyx pendant looks like a broken heart mended back together. It's quintessential HG. Dead giveaways that a pendant, bangle, or ring is an HG original: it's aesthetically maximalist and mixes 18-karat gold, precious gemstones, and vibrant enamel in a geometric pattern.

PHOTO CREDIT: ©ELLA SOPHIE

“Clearly, Harwell Godfrey is a brilliant jewelry designer.

What's more intriguing, though, is the unconventional route she took to get there. It's a winding one that includes a decade and a half of working as an awardwinning advertising creative director and several years as a chef in San Francisco” Clearly, Harwell Godfrey is a brilliant jewelry designer. What's more intriguing, though, is the unconventional route she took to get there. It's a winding one that includes a decade and a half of working as an award-winning advertising creative director and several years as a chef in San Francisco. Is there anything this woman can't do? Find out next. (Hint: no.)

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HauteART Q&A HAUTE LIVING X LAUREN HARWELL GODFREY HL: Where did you grow up? How long have you lived in the Bay Area?

LHG: I grew up in Redlands in Southern California, but moved to San Francisco in 1993. After living in San Francisco for 27 years, we just moved to Marin as our main residence.

HL: What did you love about living in San Francisco?

LHG: What I loved most in my 27 years in SF was the fiercely talented and hard-working food community. I went to culinary school at SF Cooking School and really learned how much energy and heart goes into running a restaurant. There are so many restaurants I love in San Francisco: State Bird Provisions and the Progress, Zuni, Cala. I truly miss Bar Tartine … and the list could go on! These restaurants are the soul of the city, and I hope they survive this terrible time.

HL: What don’t you love about San Francisco living?

LHG: I don’t think the city government is doing enough to keep the city clean. They need to be doing a lot more to address homelessness, which is a real crisis in San Francisco.

HL: Have your jewelry designs changed over time?

LHG: I actually started out making very large-scale leather and healing crystal jewelry that I made myself, by hand. Stones that are thought to have healing properties have always made an appearance in my work from the very beginning. My first pieces were inspired by sacred geometry, but my current work is more inspired by the vintage African textiles that I collect.

HL: What are your most popular/signature pieces?

LHG: The black onyx heart to benefit the NAACP has been a big seller. I think people are interested in giving back right now. My Valley of the Moon collection is also very popular, as are my bangles.

HL: Do you do a lot of custom pieces?

LHG: Yes, I do a lot of custom. I really enjoy working with people to repurpose meaningful stones or create something new to commemorate something that is special to them.

HL: Which of your own jewelry will people always catch you wearing?

LHG: My engagement ring, rainbow bead foundation necklace, an inlay locket that was one of my first pieces, a ring that I designed using stones from my grandmother, a few bangles, my Major Moon in mother of pearl, an M initial charm: I pile it on. That’s a job perk!

HL: Where in the San Francisco Bay can people buy your designs?

LHG: Metier, Tracy Simmons' The House, McMullen, and launching soon at Hero Shop!

HL: What is your training, if any, as a jewelry designer?

LHG: I went to design school at the Academy of Art College, but it wasn’t for jewelry design. My first career was as an art director/creative director for over 15 years in the advertising industry. I have applied a lot of what I learned in that space as a designer to my work in jewelry.

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Juju cigar band, $5,400

Evil Eye inlay ring, $3,300

One-of-a-kind cabochon bangle, $25,000

ALL JEWELRY IMAGES COURTESY OF HARWELL GODFREY

Black onyx heart to benefit NAACP, $2,500 (100% of profits donated to NAACP)

HL: Your career is a twisty one. Can you give us the elevator-pitch version?

LHG: After 15-plus years as an award-winning creative director in advertising, I left the industry to pursue a culinary path, but didn’t find the right fit.

I started making jewelry for myself and it caught on. I launched my fine jewelry line two and one-half years ago with the help of my showroom, For Future Reference, and here we are!

HL: Was it easy for you to make all these transitions?

LHG: Making is the through line. In my 15 years in advertising, I learned a lot about how to come up with an idea and then to make it real. That’s very simplified, of course, but the breadth of what I learned as a creative director (creative concept development, presenting ideas, project management, and production, to name a few) made all of these transitions easier than they would have been otherwise.

HL: How has as your business been affected by the pandemic?

LHG: My business has changed and is growing. With the recent attention on Black designers, it’s hard to know if I’m getting more orders because people are splurging or because I am getting more attention and, therefore, more people are getting to know my work. I suspect it’s a combination of both.

HL: What's your take on the recent attention being paid to Black designers, generally?

LHG: I am grateful for the support I have been receiving, but it’s tough because it’s coming out of a place of deep pain for so many people. People are dying and justice is not being served. I hope that this is treated as a marathon and not a sprint, because this isn’t going to be over any time soon. It’s systemic, it’s institutional. For many people, it’s subconscious. This is going to take a lot of work, and not everyone wants to do that work. But as for the attention I and other POC designers are receiving right now, I wish it was just the way things were. But because it’s not, it’s important to share our faces and our points of view. That’s how this will stop being exceptional and just become normal.

HL: How did the NAACP onyx heart come to be? How much have you raised?

LHG: I originally developed the heart in malachite as a way to raise money for World Central Kitchen, an organization helping to feed those with food insecurities as a result of COVID-19. When George Floyd died, I felt compelled to do something and created a black onyx version of the heart with 100 percent of profits going to NAACP. So far, I’ve donated $101,212 from the sales of the hearts. My plan is to continue to introduce this heart in different colors and materials with 100 percent of profits to support causes close to my heart. I have a rose quartz version coming out soon in support of breast cancer research.

HL: What's next for Harwell Godfrey?

LHG: I have a collaboration with Muzo Emeralds coming soon, and I’m about to release a collection designed around larger, one-of-a-kind gemstones that I sourced in Tucson earlier this year.

HL: What are your plans for the holidays?

LHG: I can hardly figure out what I’m having for dinner tonight! But I would love to get up to Tahoe.

HL: What's on your holiday wish list?

LHG: Uninterrupted quality time with my family. harwellgodfrey.com 81

BY BECCA HENSLEY

HauteBEAUTY IN HARMONY WITH MOTHER EARTH Innersense redefines clean hair Alejandra Martinez, Innersense Organic Beauty’s artistic director, has some thoughts about hair trends in 2021. “Curtain bangs for sure, and lots of French bobs!

Effortless hair is here to stay. And, curly, coil-y hair is always on trend.”

We sat down with her (masks on) to find out more about the brand she represents.

TELL US ABOUT IT.

Innersense Organic Beauty is a love story between two seasoned beauty professionals who share a passion for hair, beauty, and life. Greg and Joanne Starkman founded the brand after the birth of their special needs daughter awakened a desire to formulate clean, pure, and toxin-free hair care for consumers, stylists, and salons seeking to make healthier choices. Innersense Organic Beauty quickly emerged as a leader in the clean hair care movement and can be found in professional salons and beauty retailers across the globe.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE IN INNERSENSE ORGANIC BEAUTY?

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER HAIR CARE PRODUCTS?

Innersense Organic Beauty calls it “radical transparency.” This means all ingredients listed on the product labels and are fully disclosed on innersensebeauty.com. Plus, the ingredients the brand uses in the bottles are as important as the ingredients the brand won’t use. You won’t find any ingredients hidden under “proprietary formulae,” either. Even better, its clean, pure, beautiful products perform even better than conventional brands. They nourish the hair, scalp, and senses.

Alejandra Martinez 82

PHOTO COURTESY OF INNERSENSE

Because Innersense Organic Beauty is formulated solely with ingredients found in Mother Nature. Clean hair care is nutrition for our scalp and hair. It also sees to our well-being, with reminders on the back of each bottle to breathe and experience cleansing and conditioning as a mindful act of self-care.

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HauteBEAUTY WHY ARE CONVENTIONAL HAIR CARE METHODS BAD? HOW IS ORGANIC BETTER?

Your hair and scalp should be cared for with ingredients that our elders used, like nourishing teas, oils, and emollients. In conventional products, these healing ingredients have been substituted with synthetics like silicones, parabens, and artificial fragrance. These ingredients create the illusion of scalp and hair health; however, they are known to irritate the hair and scalp over time and ultimately create a need for products to heal the very conditions they create. Choosing clean hair care allows your body to be in harmony with itself and Mother Earth.

“Your hair and scalp should be cared for with ingredients that our elders used, like nourishing teas, oils, and emollients. ” –Alejandra Martinez WHAT SHOULD READERS EXPECT FROM THESE PRODUCTS?

Exactly what it says on the bottle: clean, pure, and beautiful! This is how you feel when you use Innersense Organic Beauty on your scalp and hair.

WHAT IS THE 14-DAY DETOX? HOW DOES IT WORK?

TELL US ABOUT THE “HAIR CEREMONIES?”

Hair ceremonies are an easy way to bring mindful practices into your morning routine. Each Innersense Organic Beauty hair ceremony features a collection of curated clean hair care products (based on hair type) and encourages a moment to make the ordinary extraordinary.

We believe shampooing should be an experience where one can be present and mindful—not a chore! Innersense Organic Beauty ceremonies truly are experiences wherein one is encouraged to mindfully take deep breaths and empower the soul with affirmations of self-love.

The ingredients sound good enough to eat and, in some cases, like jewelry we'd love to wear. From amethyst to flax—can you tell us what some of them do?

Here are my favorite Innersense Organic Beauty ingredients, and what benefits they bring: Aloe soothes the scalp, balances our pH and gently removes sebum from the scalp. Amethyst crystal connects us to our crown chakra, which is at our crown (our head). Shea butter delivers rich, nourishing, and restorative hydration.

WHERE CAN WE BUY THESE PRODUCTS?

Salons, specialty retailers, and online. Innersensebeauty.com features a store locator. Its stylists and salons are knowledgeable and eager to help.

PHOTO COURTESY OF INNERSENSE

Innersense Organic Beauty offers a special hair detox challenge: Give us (on average) 14 hair washes and allow your hair to gently let go of layers of build-up from conventional hair products. Those 14 washes, paired with

14 conditionings, slowly remove silicone coatings which prevent hair from receiving nutrition.

Once hair lets go of the synthetics and plastics that coat the cuticle, hair can breathe, absorb water, and really receive the benefits of clean, pure, beautiful ingredients. The result is healthy, gorgeous hair. *Individual experiences may vary; some users may experience a hair detox period shorter or longer than 14 washes.

Innersense Organic Beauty Product Line available at innersensebeauty.com

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BEAUTY NEWS AGE LIKE CINDY CRAWFORD

Cindy Crawford has always been a jack-of-all-trades, from actor to entrepreneur. Her Meaningful Beauty line brings her personal, high performance anti-aging potions and secrets to comfort of your home. Here are three to try: Revive & Brighten Eye Masque, cool purple eye gel patches, achieve more youthful and hydrated under-eye areas. Each pair utilizes melon complex to help visibly plump, soothe, and hydrate the delicate eye area. Store in fridge for added cooling benefits. $52.00 at ulta.com The Meaningful Beauty Firming & Tightening Body Treatment bridges breakthrough anti-aging technology to help combat the loss of firmness and elasticity of skin on the body over time with the brand’s exclusive melon leaf stem cell technology. $55.00 at ulta.com

Meaningful Beauty Pore Refining Toner minimizes the appearance of pores without dryness or irritation.

This unique, alcohol-free toner helps restore your skin's natural pH balance, leaving it clean, smooth, and radiant. $33.00 at ulta.com

PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF MEANINGFUL BEAUTY; COURTESY OF REVIVE SKINCARE

THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GIFT

Each year RéVive skincare releases a keepsake art box to celebrate the fusion of art and beauty. This year, the spotlight is on New Face, an elegant mixed-material piece by figurative artist Anya Kielar. Playing with the human form and female identity, Kielar’s sculptural work poses questions about self-reinvention. Designed to help people transform their skin, RéVive formulae pair naturally with Kielar’s work. The 5-piece gift set includes everything needed for a “new face.” This season includes the iconic Moisturizing Renewal Face & Eye Creams, Eye Renewal Serum, and ultra-rich Foaming Cleanser. $575 at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus.

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COVER STORY

Performing Arts POSTPONED but NOT SILENCED The power of music goes virtual to enrich, to unite, to heal

PHOTO CREDIT: ©DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY

BY OLIVIA DECKER

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PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF SF OPERA GUILD, FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY & OLIVIA DECKER

THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC HAS CAUSED THE CANCELLATION OF all performing arts live concerts and events in San Francisco this year.

During the lockdown, San Francisco Opera, Symphony and Festival Napa Valley continue to engage with audiences and share great artistry through online streaming and virtual presentations, providing much needed arts and music entertainments during this very difficult time for our community. We share their virtual programs with you and hope you will enjoy and support their endeavor.

SAN FRANCISCO OPERA canceled their Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 seasons and all related live events. They swiftly presented the new initiatives including Opera is ON, free streaming of past performances, the Opera Aficionado interactive education series, and alternative programming such as the virtual event Celebrating the Summer Season.

Over the past months, as health orders have permitted, limited work has resumed at San Francisco Opera that will allow the Company to be innovative and flexible in its programming. The costume shop has begun creating costumes for future productions, while continuing to produce thousands of face masks for Bay Area essential workers. The shutdown has also allowed the final phase of the War Memorial Opera House seat upgrade project to take place this fall and winter, ensuring a more comfortable and accessible opera-going experience when performances resume in the Opera House.

The new, virtual programming delves into the power of opera for families, educators, and artists via the Discover Opera newsletter, a virtual hub for soaring music, backstage stories, artist interviews, awe-inspiring voices, and other virtual opera events online, including shorter versions of classic, family-friendly operas to watch at home with children. Also available are online resources, including lesson plans, fun exercises, and readings to keep kids’ minds filled with opera, stories, and arts.

The power of music has no borders and talents come from all races.

San Francisco Opera’s Department of Diversity, Equity and Community (DEC) promotes a vibrant arts world in which people of all races create,

share, and enjoy resources and relationships equitably, unleashing individual potential, embracing collective responsibility, and generating global prosperity in the arts and beyond.

On October 13, San Francisco Opera announced the launch of the Company Relief Challenge, a $5 million matching fund to help underwrite the Company’s support of its members and sustain San Francisco Opera through the unprecedented disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund will match one-to-one all annual gifts, pledges, and donated ticket funds through November 23, 2020. This critical challenge is made possible by the generosity of longtime Company sponsors John and Cynthia Fry Gunn, Pitch and Cathie Johnson, and Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem.

“San Francisco Opera has always enjoyed extraordinary support from the community, but the dedication our donors have shown during this crisis is truly phenomenal,” said San Francisco Opera Association President Keith Geeslin. “I am so grateful to John and Cynthia, Pitch and Cathie, and Maria and Jan for their generous leadership in supporting the people of the Company and inspiring others to follow their example.”

San Francisco Opera General Director Matthew Shilvock stated: “We are a company of makers and creators, each season employing hundreds of the world’s leading singers, instrumentalists, designers, dancers, crew members, administrators and more. We are deeply grateful both to our Company members who are making such deep sacrifices right now and to the community of opera lovers that is sustaining these incredible employees and artists, allowing us to present world class opera long into the future. The support that this challenge will make possible ensures we will come back to an exciting future that includes Eun Sun Kim’s inaugural 2021–22 season and our 2022–23 Centennial Season with confidence, optimism and creativity.” For more information or to donate to San Francisco Opera’s Company Relief Challenge, please visit sfopera.com/donate.

“We are a company of makers and creators, each season employing hundreds of the world’s leading singers, instrumentalists, designers, dancers, crew members, administrators and more. We are deeply grateful both to our Company members who are making such deep sacrifices right now and to the community of opera lovers that is sustaining these incredible employees and artists, allowing us to present world-class opera long into the future. The support that this challenge will make possible ensures we will come back to an exciting future that includes Eun Sun Kim’s inaugural 2021–22 Season and our 2022–23 Centennial Season with confidence, optimism and creativity.”

– San Francisco Opera General Director Matthew Shilvock

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COVER STORY SAN FRANCISCO OPERA GUILD was founded over 80 years ago to provide funding for performing arts and opera music educations to schools.

Prior to COVID-19, the Guild served more than 64,000 students in over 200 schools throughout Northern California, most importantly, to students in underserved communities.

Opera Guild President Mary Poland told Haute Living, San Francisco: “This global pandemic is slashing music and culture from curriculums nationwide, yet it is during times like these when children need arts the most. Music education not only gives a much needed sense of purpose and structure, it equips students with skills they need to become great leaders: compassion, critical thinking, creativity, and confidence. Faced with city-wide closures, we swiftly took our programs online and provided a dependable source of community for children experiencing isolation and uncertainty. Since April, all our fundraising events have either been canceled or postponed until 2021. We work on increasing our presence in the community via social media and are considering a virtual fundraiser. Our education programs are continuing in their virtual format.

We have just launched our fall programming for classrooms, individuals, and learning bubbles.” Highlights of the programs include:

Poland pleaded: “With the suspension of our fundraising events, which account for 85 percent of our revenue, we hope you will support our mission of giving voice to potential through education and engagement programs that bring opera music center stage into the life of the community. At a time when music and art programs are disappearing from schools, the Guild’s education programs are more critical than ever. We depend on your support to develop programs that inspire students to make positive choices and become creative thinkers, innovators, and conscientious, intelligent, and culturally aware adults.”

Please visit: https://sfopera.com/Opera-Guild/guild-giving/.

 The Summer Conservatory 2020 program, serving young artists aged 8–18, ran for three weeks in July, providing training in singing acting, movement, history, private coaching sessions, and more to 22 students from all over the country via Zoom. The program culminated in a virtual production of The Magic Flute, featuring the students with scenic elements and costumes they designed themselves. One hundred twenty-five people attended the screening of this online event.  Opera Scouts and Madrigals, the youth training programs for ages 7–18, after a successful virtual spring, started fall Zoom meetings on September 9. This semester they will be working on repertoire and collaborating with Opera America’s Opera Teen Program with students across country in producing a holiday album for distribution in November. Additionally, they will compose and perform an original song cycle complete with multi-media components, based upon the themes of renewal, hope, and new beginnings.

They will also participate in the New Instrument Merit Badge Challenge as they gain proficiency in musicianship.

 Composition Residencies: Book to Bravo! and Voices for Social Justice are underway in virtual platforms this fall as students create and perform original works over each 12-week session. Culminating events will be in the form of radio plays, illustrated storyboarded operas, and Zoom performances and videos.  Opera à la Carte, traditionally offered in the fall, will move to spring 2021, as the Guild is creating a hybrid version of this program able to serve its 100plus participating schools on multiple platforms.

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SF Symphony Music Director Michael Tilson Thomas celebrated 25th and final Season

PHOTO CREDIT: ©DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY

 Musical Brain Break and Meet an Opera! were created to respond to current classroom challenges. These new mini-residencies are currently Zooming into multiple virtual classrooms in the Bay Area and beyond each week, teaching students the basic elements of singing and storytelling and introducing new and classic operas to students using a creative, active approach.

San Francisco Opera House with cut-out audiences

SF Opera Guild Summer Conservatory students perform Dido and Aeneas. Screen shot by Susan Malott

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COVER STORY

“The pandemic has changed a lot of things in our world but not our high standard of customer service. As we navigate together into the 2020–21 season, we promise to be there for you just as you continue to be there for us. We remain committed to bringing the best in music to our stages, while keeping our audiences, musicians, and staff safe.

Bearing all this in mind, we ask you to join us on a journey of hope as we look to the future. We continue to be focused on creating exceptional performances and experiences that engage audiences and expand their connections to live orchestral music, to each other, and the world around them.”

– San Francisco Symphony CEO Mark C. Hanson

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Aldo Lopez-Gavilan from Havana Cuba performed at One Night, Many Voices concert

SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY canceled all concerts through December 31, 2020, including the celebration of legendary music director Michael Tilson Thomas’ 25th season and the start of new director, Esa-Pekka Salonen, and a festival of events for the 2020 lineup. Throughout the month of June, the San Francisco Symphony had an Online Tribute—https://www.sfsymphony.org/MTT25—a special 25-day digital tribute in honor of Michael Tilson Thomas’ extraordinary 25-year tenure as music director. Each day, San Francisco Symphony released original and archival content, highlighting achievements, milestones, artistic projects, and relationships illustrative of MTT and the orchestra’s dynamic 25-year partnership. The month’s activities culminated with MTT25: An Online Tribute Event for Michael Tilson Thomas on June 28, 2020, hosted by famed vocalists Audra McDonald and Susan Graham and featuring contributions and tributes by musicians of the San Francisco Symphony and Chorus, an array of distinguished guest artists, and many surprises.

The Symphony’s digital CURRENTS series explores the intersection of classical music with other musical cultures, illuminating the connections and ways that they influence each other and evolve together. Curated and hosted by conductor Michael Morgan, the video episodes present music and conversation around the changing perspectives for symphony orchestras today, featuring members of the San Francisco Symphony alongside Bay Area musicians and performers.

The CURRENTS podcast series aims to further elaborate on and personalize the conversations and themes introduced in the CURRENTS video episodes. Released the week following each video episode, the four audio episodes provide additional opportunities to tie in current events, personal stories and perspectives, and explorations outside the musical sphere. CURRENTS Explore & Create further encourages learning and exploration for all ages through a series of conversations and activities designed to guide curious patrons through the characteristics that shape the musical cultures explored in CURRENTS video episodes: Chinese, jazz, hip hop, and Mexican. Hosted and curated by conductor Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser, these videos and interactive activities provide audiences with tools and inspiration to deepen their listening skills and express their own experiences.

San Francisco Symphony’s One-on-One Concert

Louis Davies Symphony Hall

Bartholomew-Poyser notes: “We don’t want you just to listen. We want you to engage and respond to what you’re hearing in our CURRENTS series.”

Audiences are invited to create and share submissions on social media using the hashtag #SFSCurrents, with the submitted posts to be aggregated and shared on the San Francisco Symphony’s website throughout the project at sfsymphony.org/CURRENTS. The Symphony also launched the 1:1 Concerts while in-person performances by the full San Francisco Symphony are on hold. The Symphony remains committed to creating exceptional performances and experiences that engage audiences and expand their connections to live music, to each other, and the world around them through unique 1:1 Concerts. These intimate concerts are shared only by one performer from the San Francisco Symphony and one audience member at a time, with the musical selections chosen by each performer and announced in person. The performances last 20 to 30 minutes and take place on the two outdoor terraces on the Orchestra Lobby level at Davies Symphony Hall, while adhering to current health guidelines from the

City of San Francisco. The Symphony has selected guests for this initial set of one-on-one performances from across broad constituent groups, including San Francisco Symphony donors, subscribers, and volunteers; Prelude and Symphonix members; community partners; teacher partners; and other groups. Visit http://sfsymphony.org/OnetoOne for information.

Ticket holders of the canceled concerts were encouraged to consider donating the cost of their tickets back to San Francisco Symphony or to ask for a gift certificate for the value of their tickets. This helps support the Symphony as a nonprofit performing arts organization during this challenging time.

Ticket donations go a long way in helping San Francisco Symphony come back stronger and more vibrant than ever. Patrons can double the impact of ticket donations with a 1 to 1 match made possible by a group of generous San Francisco Symphony Board members and donors including President Sakurako Fisher and William Fisher, President-Elect Priscilla B. Geeslin and Keith Geeslin, former President John Goldman and Marcia Goldman, and Development Committee Chair Trine Sorensen and Michael Jacobson.

SF Opera Guild Summer Conservatory students’ virtual performance of Mozart’s “Magic Flute”. Screen shot by Caroline Altman

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Festival Napa Valley’s Remote Ensemble performed by 120 alumni musicians from eight Countries

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COVER STORY

Festival Napa Valley’s one-night-only Songs of Gratitude online concert will air globally on Dec. 5, 2020

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY: Blending the beauty and bounty of Napa Valley with the very finest performing arts, Festival Napa Valley offers programs that enrich the vitality of the region and make the arts accessible to all. The Festival presents world class performances staged in iconic Napa Valley venues and inspiring educational programs offered at Napa County public schools year-round. It is presented by Napa Valley Festival Association, a nonprofit organization governed by a board of prominent vintners and local leaders. More than 200 artists, wineries, resorts, theaters, restaurants, chefs, and vintners participate each year. Festival Napa Valley’s 15th Anniversary Season, originally slated for the summer of 2020, will take place July 16-25, 2021.

The Festival has been at the forefront of producing online content and at-home experiences throughout 2020. In April, the Festival launched a remote ensemble featuring alumni musicians from 26 states, eight countries, and five continents, performing “Va, Pensiero” from Verdi’s Nabucco. The performance paid tribute to the pandemic’s heroic essential workers. You can watch it here: https://festivalnapavalley.org/programs/ virtual-performances/remote-ensemble/.

This summer, with generous support from Deborah and Kenneth Novack, the Festival launched the Novack Concerts for Kids. The first concert featured Britain’s remarkable Kanneh-Mason family, seven brothers and

Festival Napa Valley’s “One Night, Many Voices” online concert

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sisters aged 10 to 23 years old, all of whom play violin, piano, or cello. The Kanneh-Masons recorded the performance while in quarantine at their home in Nottingham, England. It debuted in June through the closed circuit broadcast system of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital for an audience of patients, parents, nurses, doctors, and staff. The program has been made available for use by educational organizations, Bay Area Boys & Girls Clubs, assisted living centers, and hospitals.

Additional concerts in the Novack series to be released in 2020 include the world premiere of an interactive music-art-game from recorder sensation Tabea Debus, and an experiential educational program featuring The Sphinx Virtuosi, a dynamic ensemble comprised of 18 top Black and Latinx classical soloists.

In July, Festival Napa Valley presented One Night, Many Voices, a concert which went viral, viewed by over 1 million households in 50 countries around the globe. A star-studded roster of artists performed, including Festival favorites Joshua Bell and his wife, soprano Larisa Martínez; tenor Michael Fabiano; soprano Nadine Sierra; pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet; and the Young People’s Chorus of NYC. The concert culminated with a swinging jazz performance by pianist Aldo López-Gavilán and his band direct from Havana, Cuba. View the concert here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cknhV_ YHKr4&feature=youtu.be.

Miss America 2019, Nia Imani Franklin, performed at Festival Napa Valley

“The arts have the power to convey our most powerful emotions, and our hopes and dreams for the future. We’ve curated Songs of Gratitude to be rich, intriguing, entertaining, thought-provoking, surprising, and joyful. This concert is envisioned as a way to connect us all, and to give thanks to our community and to those working hard behind the scenes during this extraordinary time.”

–Richard Walker, President & CEO of Festival Napa Valley

Young People’s Chorus of NYC performed at One Night, Many Voices

In September, Festival Napa Valley joined JCB Live for a Happy Hour with vintner and Festival board member Jean-Charles Boisset and Festival CEO Rick Walker. Together they celebrated the arts with singer, composer, and Miss America 2019, Nia Imani Franklin, who will be performing at the Festival next summer. Vintner and Founding Chairman of the Board Darioush Khaledi joined the JCB Live program in October, with other Festival board members and partners to follow.

Next up: on December 5, 2020, the Festival presents Songs of Gratitude in response to a year of unimaginable hardship for the Napa community, and for our planet. Airing globally as a free, one-night-only, online event, Songs of Gratitude will showcase the beauty and strength of Napa Valley.

The program features performances by pianist Audrey Vardanega; the Friction String Quartet; opera singers Kelley O’Connor, Lisa Delan, and Nicholas Phan; traditional Mexican roots folk ensemble Los Cenzontles; jookin’ dancer Ron “Prime Tyme” Myles; cellists Matt Haimovitz and Starla Breshears; chanteuse and harpist Lucinda Belle; and a remote vocal ensemble featuring the talents of Napa County high school choristers.

“The arts have the power to convey our most powerful emotions, and our hopes and dreams for the future,” said Richard Walker, President & CEO of Festival Napa Valley. “We’ve curated Songs of Gratitude to be entertaining, thought-provoking, surprising, and joyful. This concert is envisioned as a way to connect us all and to give thanks to our community and to those working hard behind the scenes during this extraordinary time.” For more information and to RSVP, please visit festivalnapavalley.org.

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BY BECCA HENSLEY

HauteWELLNESS

The Blackfoot River runs through Paws Up Resort

GETTING ZEN IN MONTANA Where social distancing is measured in acres, not feet ON MONTANA’S BLACKFOOT RIVER IN A boat among the landscape where Lewis and Clark famously traversed, I levitate atop a watery carpet of tiny bubbles. Within The Resort at Paws Up’s 37,000 acres of untrammeled, pine-peppered hills and golden meadows, I feel like I might be the only person on earth. Except for Brian, my flyfishing guide who’s paddling the rapids, peering into the water for trout, and coaching me gently, but fervently. “Now! Cast! There. Make rainbows.

Okay, let it drift. Good girl.”

Brian wants me to catch a fish. What he doesn’t know is that I don’t care about hooking one. I’m content just being here, bobbing atop the percolating stream, floating through this vertiginous riverscape mottled with a thousand shades of green.

Oh, I keep angling, but that just adds to my overall tranquility and sense of Zen. The repetitive action of casting into the crystalline stream, noting

the colors and shapes of rocks and flora, adjusting my line into artful arcs, watching my meticulously tied fly dance on the water as we float past it: all this lulls me into a happy state of serenity. I listen to the water whisper its secrets, feel the wet wind on my face, and imagine the hungry fish below waiting like fickle lovers for my hook.

Fly fishing might not be everyone’s idea of a wellness sport. Indeed, when one angles with a hearty guide like Brian—who does all the rowing (not to mention the untangling, re-tying, and unhooking)—there may be only a modicum of actual calories burned by those fishing. (I do contend that keeping my body balanced on the side of the boat as we pop over the tiny rapids without falling out surely counts as core work.) However, fly fishing doesn’t have to be physically active to be good for us. As meditative and recalibrating as yoga, angling is wellness for the soul.

Glamping means luxury robes and more

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAWS UP

Paws Up draws couples, friends, family, and solo travelers

Horse whispering is an option

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HauteWELLNESS How can that be? To start with, casting over the side of a boat or from the riverbank relies on timing and rhythm. As one practices throwing out the line, over and over again, the mind and body sync. The repetition initiates a form of meditation that clears negative thoughts, enhances creativity, and promotes inner harmony. In addition, being near or in water has been proven to calm the nerves, lower blood pressure, and encourage feelings of happiness. No wonder fly fishing feels like a sacred act. Some even call it a religion. Ergo, its life lessons are automatic: go with the flow, practice non-attachment (catch and release!), and exult in the joy of the present moment.

At The Resort at Paw’s Up, fly fishing isn’t the only way to stay fit, find happiness, and feel alive.

In fact, this mind-boggling dude ranch, less than an hour from Missoula, offers so many ways to experience well-being that the only stress while

in residence might be making choices. Renowned for having coined the phrase “glamping,” Paws Up re-defines posh roughing it.

The all-inclusive, dreamscape retreat holds a collection of six luxury camps composed of 36 grand tent suites in all, some with more than one bedroom. Adorned with heyday safari elegance, the tents set a mood of dramatic repose with en suite bathrooms (complete with heated floors), sumptuous linens and beds, eye-catching artwork, soaking tubs, and oriental rugs.

The tents lie amid the landscape’s highlights: atop cliffs, by the rivers, in the shadows of Lookout Rock (where Meriwether Lewis once stood to survey the expanses). Just as stunning, 28 commodious homes with hot tubs and ample terraces, cleverly designed to evoke rustic cabins but kitted out with opulent amenities, dot the rim of a wide meadow, each surrounded by trees.

Up, up, and away in the resort's own balloon

Fly fishing is medicine for the soul

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Trails abound at Paws Up

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAWS UP

Mountains are part of the resort's 37,000 acres

Later this year, a new adults-only camp will open: green o. Set in a forest, designed as contemporary tree houses, green o will offer yet another Paws Up astonishing option.

With accommodations so spectacular, leaving one’s cozy enclave takes some motivation. But a world of wonder awaits outside your Paws Up door—or tent flap. Besides fly fishing, seasonal activities hail from a trove of everything you’ve ever wanted to try. From archery to cattle drives, white water rafting to ice skating, ATV adventures to paintball games, dog sledding to downhill skiing, horseback riding, jewelry making, clay

target shooting, hiking—the list goes on throughout the year. The peerless gym boasts sweeping vistas, while the 1.5-mile Grizzlyman fitness trail takes your workout into the woods. At Spa Town®, a haven configured with tents, treatments embrace al fresco elements as the immuneboosting scent of pine and wildflowers imbue the experience. Best bet?

Stay for a month.

Ideal for families, groups of friends, honeymooners, business associates—even solo travelers—Paws Up does more than guide guests on unprecedented adventures. It leads them to transformation.

Sumptuous western-themed cabins spoil travelers

Guests have the run of the resort

Delicious farm-to-fork meals are included

Romantic, upscale tents are swoonable at Paws Up

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BY OLIVIA DECKER

HauteRESIDENCE

ROCKY POINT IS LOCATED 10 MILES SOUTH OF CARMEL ALONG THE most scenic, beautiful stretch of Highway 1 between Carmel and Big Sur. Currently zoned for both residential and commercial with 3 apartments and the Rocky Point Restaurant on 2 acres coastal land on Pacific Ocean.

The property is a perfect place to enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Bixby Bridge in Big Sur as you perched cliff-side on the spacious open deck overlooking the ocean, or sit inside by the cozy fireplace, looking through panoramic windows watching ocean waves crash onto the rocks below, catching glimpses of playful sea-otters, dolphins, seals, and whales as they migrate up and down the coast.

Opened in 1947 as a roadside lunch restaurant, Rocky Point quickly became a must-stop Vista Point on this most famous stretch of California Coastal Highway 1. In 2012, the current owner did an extensive renovation and reopened it in 2013. Its stunning views, magical ambiance and undeniable romance impressed visitors from all over the world.

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“In 2012, the current owner did an extensive renovation and reopened it in 2013. Its stunning views, magical ambiance and undeniable romance impressed visitors from all over the world.”

The two-acre property is nestled on a gentle hill situated on top of dramatic rocky cliffs above the crashing waves, enjoying completely unobstructed and dynamic upfront views of the ocean and dramatic coastline. Rocky Point

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROCKY POINT RESTAURANT

MAGNIFICENT ROCKY POINT BETWEEN CARMEL AND BIG SUR ON SCENIC CALIFORNIA COAST

PHOTOS CREDIT: (HEADSHOT) ©ERIC HOOTEN

“Rocky Point could become your luxury dream residence, a special sanctury for your family compound in an unsurpassed setting.

Or it could become a signature restaurant/club lounge with a retail boutique for a savvy business owner.” is truly a world-class ocean front property – there exists nothing between Rocky Point and the Pacific Ocean but your imagination and a profound sense of serenity.

The magnificent view makes it a singular gem along the world-famous Monterey Peninsula coastline.

Rocky Point is only available for purchase once every few decades, and now is one of those moments. Rocky Point could become your luxury dream residence, a special sanctury for your family compound in an unsurpassed setting. Or it could become a signature restaurant/ club lounge with a retail boutique for a savvy business owner. A few

lucky wedding couples have been blessed to tie the knot at Rocky Point for their dream Destination Wedding. Special Events and Corporate Retreats have been dazzled by the location. Rocky Point could become your specialty Bed & Breakfast Inn, subject to approval. With the mixed zoning, there are many opportunities and use choices, we leave it up to your imagination subject to approval by Coastal Commission and County of Monterey. The land all the way to the ocean, the building itself, the existing restaurant, the special liquor license, the residential units on site, and all fixtures and equipment are included in the price.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire this very rare property.

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HauteRESIDENCE Both the California Coastal Commission and County goal is to minimize the number of people in the Big Sur area and reduce water usage. Converting Rocky Point Restaurant to a private residence will satisfy both their desires because a single-family residence will use much less water than a restaurant and will have far less occupants on-site than a restaurant serves. The restaurant on average served about 300 people and busiest days on holidays would serve over 450 people.

Offered at $8,000,000.

Photos and videos on www.RockyPointCarmel.com.

For details, please email Olivia Hsu Decker at Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com or text her at 415.720.5915. www.SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | DRE #00712080

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BY TIM LAPPEN

TheHAUTE LISTAuto

2020 CORVETTE STINGRAY COUPE The American Legend Becomes a World Car

You see, once we learned that there was only one name for the car and it had a hard “T” at the end, we also learned that it had a pretty puny engine. The engine in the inaugural Corvette, in 1953, was called the “Blue Flame” motor, but with six cylinders, 235 cubic inches, and 150HP, “Blue Flameout” was more appropriate. Coupling that six-banger to a 2-speed automatic that could motivate the Vette to 60MPH in about 11 seconds was a pretty unremarkable performance metric, even then. Only some 300 Corvettes were produced the first year, as Chevrolet wasn’t sure if the car would be a success. 1954 was slightly better for the Corvette, but not good enough.

Chevrolet apparently even considered dropping the line, until Ford introduced the 2-seater Thunderbird sports car. The race for America’s heart (or male lust) was on. Corvette then upped the game in 1955, with a small V8, and even added fuel injection as a 1957 option. In 1958, Ford seemingly ceded the sports car competition to Chevrolet as the T-Bird that year was bigger, heavier, and had four seats.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHEVROLET

IN THE EARLY 1950S, WHEN CHEVROLET ANNOUNCED THAT IT WAS going to create the first American sports car, the rumor was that there were two models—a coupe, called a “Cor-vette” and a convertible, called a “Corvey.” Perhaps the rumor started since Corvette was a French word and Americans didn’t always know what to do with a French word with the letter “t” near the end: give it a had a hard or soft “T” ending. However, as Shakespeare might have said were he a Mad Man from the 1950s: “A sports car like this with any other name would go as fast.”

Or maybe not.

A lifelong petrol-holic, mechanic (cars, motorcycles, boats), and automotive journalist since penning a column for his high school newspaper, internationally recognized attorney Tim Lappen is a partner at a major Los Angeles-based law firm, where he chairs the firm’s Family Office Group and its Luxury Home Group and is, of course, a member of its Motor Vehicle Group. He can be reached at tlappen@gmail.com or visit LifeInTheFastLane.org

Through various iterations, and through the intervening almost 70 years and seven prior generations of the Corvette (“C1” through “C7”), the ’Vette has become more and more popular. Nevertheless, to people of a certain age, and especially during the years of the TV show Route 66 (1960-1964), which prominently featured two guys looking for America, the Corvette was the ticket to freedom, to explore the country, to heed the call of the open road, to be a man’s man––that was the promise of the Corvette.

Despite the many competitive incursions into America’s sports car love affair which were created mostly in Europe, Corvette remained steadfast: lots of power up front, driving only the rear wheels. A longish hood and a short tail. You know, Chevy is ’MERICAN! The “Heartbeat of America!” I mean, who drives a Ferrari to the levee? But rumors started flying again a few years ago that the Corvette would become a mid-engined car (the engine behind the driver, but in front of the rear axle) to provide other styling alternatives and make the car handle better. It wasn’t until the Corvette Stingray “C8” (the eighth generation Corvette) arrived that we were sure that it was going to happen. Although “going to the dark side” didn’t please everyone, I, for one, am glad to see the results of that metamorphosis.

The C8 Corvette has taken a giant leap into the new millennium (albeit two decades in), with a car that’s at once very American with deep roots in Italy and England (like many of us Americans). Many who see the new Stingray think it’s a Ferrari or a McLaren. They can be excused, as the styling cues certainly are similar. With the form-follows-function needed to attain great speed (0-60 in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 194 mph for the Z51 base model!) and handling (over 1g on the skid-pad), one would think that you needed to source this car in Italy, Germany, or England but it comes from … Kentucky. (Corvettes have been made in Bowling Green, KY, since 1981.)

I was fortunate to spend a week with the new Corvette in July. “Mine” was “Elkhart Lake Blue Metallic” with “Jet Black” interior, and it was stunning, with or without the removable top panel in place. Of course, the quarantine orders created some challenges, but I loved my time with the car. It was

amazing how the car drew a crowd wherever I went, and how so few people know what it was until seeing the Chevy “bowtie” badging.

Let’s talk about pricing first, as Chevy has done something unbelievable: the base price is $58,900. You may not see one at that price for a while, but, even with many options, the ’Vette is well below its European competitors.

Mine had special sound system, front and rear cameras (the back camera drives a cool new TV screen rearview mirror), and more ($7,300): the “Z1 Performance Package” ($5,000) which includes upgrades to brakes, exhaust system, suspension, bigger wheels, upgraded bucket seats, painted brakes and more, adding a total of $18,175 in options. When all was said and done, it had a sticker of $78,170. What can you get that performs—goes and handles and stops—like this car? Nothing!

So, what’s it like? I am pleased to report that … it was perfection! It started up with a serious authority, not a “ka-boom” exactly, but enough throb to tell the local denizens that something wicked this way was coming. The sound portended great performance, and the ’Vette did not disappoint. With an unusual 40/60 weight distribution, well over half of the car’s heft was on the rear wheels, which no doubt allowed for 0-60 times which were unbelievable for an American car just a few years ago. Zero-to-60 in under three seconds puts the C8 in very rarified company!

Another surprising fact: the new Corvette is larger (longer and wider) than its predecessor. It didn’t look bigger to me, and it sure didn’t drive like it was. I had tested last year’s model and really enjoyed it, but the C8 feels and acts shorter. I assume that the seating position on the new car is closer to the center of the vehicle, but, whatever the reason, driving it in the canyons around Los Angeles was terrific.

My time with the new Corvette came to an end too quickly (though I am promised the convertible variant soon—can’t wait!). Living with the C8 as my daily driver was a breeze, with ample storage fore and aft and eminent drivability. Docile when I just wanted to cruise and breathing fire when requested, the car is an all-around American success story.

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BY TIM LAPPEN

TheHAUTE LISTAuto

2021 POLESTAR 1 A new look at hybrid luxury

PHOTOS COURTESY OF POLESTAR

IF YOU LOOK UP POLESTAR, YOU’LL LIKELY SEE ONE OF TWO THINGS: first, a definition of the word, indicating that it means North Star (Polaris) or guiding light. More likely, you will see the new car company, Polestar, defined as a Sino-Swedish automotive brand jointly owned by the Swedish car company Volvo and the Chinese car company Geely (which also owns Volvo). After spending time with the Polestar 1, I can tell you that this is the best idea since someone combined Swedish meatballs with hoisin sauce.

The concept brings the high-tech offerings of a Chinese electric car company to the safety, reliability, and styling of a Swedish car company in a portfolio of three different models: Polestar 1, the electric performance hybrid GT; Polestar 2, the all-electric performance fastback; and Polestar 3, the all-electric performance SUV. Polestar 1s and 2s are out now, while the Polestar 3 is under development.

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Polestar 1 is the halo car for the company. It’s not meant to be a big seller, as only 500 of them will be made each year for three years (with 150 of each year’s allocation sent to North America). Aside from the relative rarity, it’s also more expensive than most hybrids with a base price of about $155,000.

But the Polestar 1 is far from the hybrids which most people know already.

• Carbon fiber body • Roof almost entirely of glass • 21” wheels • Aluminum monobloc brake calipers • Crystal gearshift knob • Sport seats with Napa leather • 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound Of course, all of that technology, luxury, and performance come at a price.

The good news is the base is pretty much the top price, as the only option one can buy is matte paint for $5,000 more. What do you get for that price, aside from the niceties listed above?

Now is where this car shines! It has a double-electric rear axle with two 85 KW motors, giving the Polestar 1 some 232 HP if only driving on the battery.

(Pure battery range is a healthy 60 miles.) The double-electric rear axle provides a major benefit for handling – each rear wheel can be separately accelerated or slowed, allowing for some excellent torque vectoring (for added stability when cornering). But wait (actually, no waiting), there’s more! There’s also another electric motor that puts out another 68 HP, plus a turbocharged and supercharged 2-liter gasoline motor which provides yet more ponies, some 326 HP. Therefore, when your right foot meets the floor, well, you have 619 HP (you read that right: a Volvo-Geely car with well over

600 HP!) and 738 pound-feet of torque. The third electric motor also serves as the gas motor’s starter motor, a clever trick used by some other exotics as well.

The Polestar 1 also boasts an impressive array of carbon fiber which is used extensively in the construction of this car to strengthen the chassis as well as the roof, inner body, and outer body side panels, doors, front fenders, hood, trunk, and even the rear parcel shelf. This leads to less weight, more body stiffness, and a lower center of gravity which, when coupled with the 1’s terrific 48/52 percent front/back weight distribution (thanks in large part of having two locations for the batteries), sophisticated powertrain, and custom Öhlins shock absorbers, all combine to provide for excellent handling, especially for a car weighing 5,181 pounds.

Attention to detail is apparent everywhere one looks on this car. From the front grille (which Polestar calls the “grid”) with its semi-closed design and special mesh to the interior switchgear, the vertical air-conditioning vents, the luxurious, tooled leather seating, and more, the Polestar 1 exudes luxury.

The fact that it can run for miles and miles on electricity alone, boogie with the big boys (0-60 in four seconds and a top speed of about 155 MPH), and go out for an elegant, black-tie night on the town are added benefits. This is one car that truly can do it all.

My wife, Gail, called the Polestar 1 a “Zen car,” as it was so smooth, comfortable, and luxurious that it was like taking a ride in our comfy living room. (Then again, she didn’t ride with me when I put it through its paces, which was lucky for both of us.) I love a car that can behave appropriately to its mission—be it a cruise, sprint or a slalom—and the Polestar 1 fits the bill perfectly.

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BY KELLY E. CARTER

HauteAMBASSADOR

Wine Country

Fall vineyards in Napa Valley

FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH The 52-year-old Agricultural Preserve maintains Napa Valley’s character

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TIME OFTEN SEEMS TO STAND STILL IN MOST PARTS OF Napa Valley. Yes, new wineries sprout every so often, each one grander and more opulent than the last in its quest to stand out.

But for the most part, Napa Valley’s character remains unchanged year after year. We can credit the Agricultural Preserve for that— and being the reason, as is often stated, why Napa Valley does not resemble Santa Clara Valley today.

Grape Crusher The Ag Preserve, a landmark county ordinance designed to protect the Napa Valley growing region, was passed by the Napa County Board of Supervisors in 1968, thus becoming the first zoning ordinance of its kind in the country.

The set of zoning laws comprise Ag Preserve and Ag Watershed lands and basically state that agriculture is the highest and best use of the land. In other words, don’t even thinking about starting a commercial business outside of the local towns or the city of Napa that doesn’t involve agriculture.

I was surprised recently to learn from the Napa Valley Grapegrowers Association that nationally, we as a

country lose nearly 40 acres of farmland every hour due to urban sprawl; however, not one acre of Ag Preserve zoned land (about 31,609 acres) has been lost to urban use since its adoption. That’s impressive! (For the record, wineries are defined as agricultural processing facilities.)

PHOTO CREDITS: ©BOB MCCLENAHAN, ©JOSIAH ROE/VISIT NAPA VALLEY

Kelly E. Carter is the director of communications at Alpha Omega winery on Napa Valley’s Rutherford Bench. The former editor of “Haute Living San Francisco” previously enjoyed a lengthy, award-winning career in journalism writing about sports, entertainment, and luxury lifestyles for various media outlets.

Kelly co-authored New York Times bestseller “Come to Win: Business Leaders, Artists, Doctors, and Other Visionaries on How Sports Can Help You Top Your Profession” with Venus Williams and penned “The Dog Lover’s Guide to Travel” for National Geographic Books. She has traveled to more than 40 countries and territories on six continents and called Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Italy home. Visit Kelly at: www. kellyecarter.com

Wine tasting

Red wine grapes

Before the Ag Preserve went into effect, Napa Valley was in danger of moving in the direction of Santa Clara which, like Napa, had a rich agricultural history with fruit and nut orchards. Caltrans proposed a 4-lane freeway stretching to Calistoga. There was talk of an international airport to match San Francisco International in size being constructed in south Napa.

Population projections predicted that, by 2020, nearly half a million people could relocate to Napa County with more than 200,000 of them in the city of Napa alone.

Instead, today Napa County remains the least urbanized of the nine counties in the San Francisco Bay Area and the least populated with fewer than 138,000 residents. Fewer than 80,000 people reside in the city of Napa. Despite nearly 4 million visitors flocking to Napa Valley annually, the region has retained its historic agricultural identity. How apropos that an iconic statue of Napa is the Grape Crusher, sitting high on a hill south of the city of Napa.

Napa Valley, one of the world’s premiere winegrowing regions, flaunts more than 500 brands that run the gamut from boutique to corporate behemoths and showcases tasting rooms ranging from understated to over-thetop. But at the end of the day, despite the glamour associated with Napa Valley, this is farm country.

Despite calling Napa Valley home for more than five years, I never take for granted this region’s splendor. Whether I am driving on the scenic Silverado Trail or the well-traveled Highway 29 or power walking on Yount Mill Road just outside the Yountville town limit and a favorite stretch for locals and visitors on foot or bicycles, I’m reminded of the Ag Preserve. I thank the foresight of the Board of Supervisors who saw fit to maintain Napa Valley’s open spaces which are, as the ordinance states, economic and aesthetic attributes and assets of the County of Napa. Thanks to ensuing measures passed by voters, agriculture will remain the foundation of the economy through 2058.

The next time you uncork a bottle of Napa Valley wine, which I hope will be soon, raise a glass to the timeless beauty of Napa Valley. Cheers!

Biking in Napa Valley

Landscape filled with hot air balloons

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BY LYDIA GRAHAM

HauteAMBASSADOR

Health & Wellness

A TIME TO REFLECT AND RESET How do we really spend the ultimate currency of our life?

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Does Time Speed Up as We Age? Time does seem to speed up as we get older. A relative of mine in her 80s turned to me one day and said, “Where did the time go?” I am sure you have heard similar remarks or might feel that way yourself. I know I do. Well, the truth lies in how we perceive time. In 2005, researchers at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich surveyed 499 participants, ranging in age from 14 to 94 years. Results showed that “when asked to reflect on their lives, the participants older than 40 felt that time elapsed slowly in their childhood but then accelerated steadily through their teenage years into early adulthood.” According to psychologist and BBC Columnist Claudia Hammond, “The reason? Our brain encodes new experiences, but not familiar ones, into memory, and our retrospective judgment of time is based on how many new memories we create over a certain period. In other words, the more new memories we build on a weekend getaway, the longer that trip will seem in hindsight.”

Hammond dubbed this phenomenon “the holiday paradox, [which] seems to present one of the best clues as to why, in retrospect, time seems to pass more quickly the older we get. From childhood to early adulthood, we have many fresh experiences and learn countless new skills. As adults, though, our lives become more routine and we experience fewer unfamiliar moments. As a result, our early years tend to be

relatively overrepresented in our autobiographical memory and, on reflection, seem to have lasted longer. Of course, this means we can also slow time down later in life. We can alter our perceptions by keeping our brains active, continually learning skills and ideas and exploring new places.”

Making the Most of This Time With the recent shutdowns and spending so much time at home, how can we best utilize our time or even slow time down by creating some memorable experiences? Otherwise, one day slips into the next, undifferentiated from the one before.

If you are up to the challenge of accepting our current reality as an opportunity to re-examine how you spend your life and, therefore, your time, here are seven areas to consider.

1. GET YOUR LIFE IN ORDER Now is a good time to take care of unfinished business, from taking care of the obvious, like financial and estate planning (as we all have been recently reminded of our own mortality) to getting those lingering projects done around the house. Clean out those closets, drawers, and garages—and fix broken things.

Give away belongings you no longer need; others can use them, especially now. Unfinished and broken things and clutter not only occupy space in our environment but also in our brains—they distract us more than we realize. Note those items that never get done on your ever expanding “to do” list. Permanently crossing them off releases feelings of guilt or dread and frees that energy and focus for more productive, creative endeavors.

As Marie Kondo emphasizes in her book, The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, objects in your environment “should bring you joy.” Additionally, by decluttering, you may have a few rewarding surprises like finding long lost things. Recently, when clearing out a box of family mementos, I found love letters from my dad to my mom leading up to their marriage. I did not even know they existed; finding them was so worth it and priceless.

I’m glad I took the time to sort through the box. Be your own tough task master. Persevere.

PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK

Lydia is a passionate advocate of healthy living. She has launched and positioned many health and wellnessrelated companies, products, technologies and organizations receiving more than 100 awards nationally and internationally. Her focus in the health sector is specifically on life sciences, aging and longevity. She is a partner and investor in several recognized national brands.

She sits on the board of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging whose mission is to eliminate the threat of agerelated disease for today’s and future generations. It is the only independent research organization globally dedicated to extending the healthy years of life. Like the scientists at the Buck, Graham envisions it will be possible for people to enjoy life at 95 as much as at 25.

To support Buck’s mission, please visit www.buckinstitute.org.

AS WE LOOK TOWARD CLOSING OUT 2020, I DOUBT MANY of us will be sorry to see it go. There won’t be big parties or galas, it will end quietly. Back in March, our world suddenly hit pause; this has given us a moment to reflect and take stock.

Time is the ultimate currency of our lives, and how we spend it sums up the totality of who we are. It impacts our wellbeing as well as our quality of life.

Time is precious. We do not have as much of it available as one would think. For example, given our average life span of 75 years, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development calculated we spend 26 years of that sleeping. Yikes, that only leaves 49 years of wake time. Life really is short.

2. WHAT BRINGS YOU JOY AND MEANING? When are you most energized? What are you thinking, dreaming about, or doing at those moments? Pay attention to what and who steals your energy and what and who energizes you. Consider keeping a time journal for a week or even a month. Write down how you spend your time. As you go through your day, assign an energy number next to each task such as 10 for highly energized and one being lowest. You might be surprised. Of course, we all must do things we do not want to do, but this exercise can be insightful.

In your work, marriage, or family, for example, you might learn what tasks you need to share or delegate. Ideally, we should strive to do the tasks we excel at and energize us. Delegate the rest, if possible. Find balance with those around you who excel at or enjoy the things you aren’t good at or zap your energy.

Regarding that “to do” list, we often become a slave to a seemingly endless list of details like a hamster on a wheel. Carve out time daily for your most meaningful activities and areas. Tackle these areas first or during your highest energy times. Leave the details for your low energy periods. Besides noticing how your energy fluctuates during the day, you might refer to my previous article on sleep, “Sleep Better Through a Pandemic or Anytime for that Matter” in the May/June issue or check out the book I mentioned there—The Power of When.

It is tempting with the current stressors in our environment to mindlessly zone out, as that certainly has its role in destressing. Make sure distractions such as screen time, news, and TV do not keep you from the things that are truly important. Unless something is critical to maintaining my day-to-day, I mostly look at these activities from a forward lens: Will it matter in five years if I spent so much time on this? Will I even remember it or will it change my future? The adage—no one on their deathbed wishes they spent more time at the office—rings in my head frequently. I would add email and social media to that list. Those are real time snatchers.

3. WHAT OR WHOM IN YOUR LIFE ARE YOU NEGLECTING? Hundreds of books have been written about time management and life balance. Why? Because so many people’s lives are out of balance. What areas do you favor and what areas do you neglect? Think about: 1) relationships, 2) work and how you contribute in the world, 3) finances, 4) health and fitness, 5) home and work environment, and 6) spirituality. Do you spend more time on a few of these areas and neglect others? Are you spending time with your cherished family members and friends? Take stock and assign a percentage to each life area. If it is out of balance, make changes and revisit in 90 days.

4. LEARN SOMETHING NEW To break up the monotony of routine, make time in your day or week to learn something new. It will energize you and is good for your brain, too. This can range from taking on an endeavor as large as getting a new degree or certificate to something smaller. For example, one friend of mine who loves to travel when she is not busy with her three teens is brushing up on her French by perusing French properties and vacation rental sites (in French), even though she has no intention of purchasing and can’t travel there right now. It’s her way of day dreaming, becoming more informed on future travel, and learning at the same time. Pretty clever.

5. CREATE NURTURING RITUALS We all have rituals, whether we consciously create them or not. Make that cup of coffee in the morning is a ritual, i.e., a repeated, habitual activity.

Rituals, however small, anchor us, especially in uncertain times. Do we

create rituals that nurture and support us? For example, how do you begin your day—deliberately or by jumping out of bed, rushing? Do you welcome the morning’s new beginning? Set an intention for the day? Or practice a moment of gratitude at the end of the day before you sleep? Think about your morning and evening rituals and what you want to keep or change.

6. LEAVE SPACE IN BETWEEN FOR MAGIC While routine can anchor us, it is also important to break routine to avoid monotony. The best way to do this is to leave space in your day to allow for some spontaneity. Being overly scheduled kills this. Leaving time in your calendar to just “be” rather than “do” will improve your quality of life.

This was my big challenge, as I often over-packed my schedule and constantly rushed from one project task to the next. Since making this shift, my life has been calmer, more enjoyable, and less stressful. I’ve had the opportunity to appreciate things I probably missed before, like taking a moment to notice a bluebird or pair of doves on my banister or enjoying a spontaneous conversation with the check-out person at the grocery store or with a friend who unexpectedly calls. These short departures from routine add spice and differentiation to our day. Plus, leaving spaces in our schedule allows us to manage the unexpected demands that fly out of nowhere and add unnecessary stress to our bodies.

7. GIVING THE GIFT OF TIME There is no greater gift than giving your time and attention. After all, you are sharing the currency of your life, so do it intentionally and wisely. There are two aspects to think about here: time and attention. To truly gift your time, you need both. When we give our time to someone, it is important we do it fully. Otherwise, the receiving person doesn’t feel we actually did spend time with them. They have every right to feel that way if we were distracted with interruptions from our cell phone, texts, emails, etc.

Being fully present is a gift and it’s pretty rare these days, which is why we sometimes hear, “You’re not spending enough time with me” after having just spent a lot of time together. Be present with your family and friends.

Whether it is making time for a morning or afternoon walk or having an uninterrupted meal together at the end of the day or being fully present during a call—we could all use a little more love and attention.

Many folks are currently alone and that cannot be easy. Make a concerted effort to call these friends or relatives regularly or plan socially distanced visits. If you are alone, find meaningful opportunities to connect with others virtually or through social distancing protocols.

Many in our community are struggling financially right now, some you might not suspect. I had one friend facing bankruptcy, as many businesses and even entire industries have been decimated. How can you help? Besides money, where can you contribute your knowledge and skills or harness your network to meet needs? Philanthropy is important right now. We must help each other.

CONCLUSION: In short, be the guardian of your time—your life and wellbeing really do depend on it!

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LifeLife Coach Coach

DEALING WITH ANGER Thoughtful steps to move into acceptance ANGER. YOU KNOW THE FEELING. TIGHT CHEST, adrenaline rush, rapid heartbeat, uncontrolled thoughts.

Dictionary.com defines anger as a strong feeling of displeasure and belligerence aroused by a wrong; wrath; ire. Boy, I know that feeling. Anger is a fundamental emotion and can be super helpful. It is triggered by a perceived or real threat, and our bodies respond with the fight, flight, or freeze response. The “threat” can be someone taking the parking spot for which you have been waiting, your child not doing his chores, or a colleague taking credit for your work. Anger can also signal when someone has crossed your boundary, a need of yours isn’t getting met, or when you see an injustice. Anger can inspire us to act, in either a constructive or destructive way. Here are a few different types of anger: 1. Destructive Anger Suppressing anger is consciously or unconsciously covering up your anger. Many people, particularly women, have been taught that anger is unseemly, that expressing anger is wrong because it makes others uncomfortable. The results of suppressing anger can be debilitating: • Physical: high blood pressure, increased heart disease, decreased immunity, and ulcers.

• Emotional: anxiety and depression.

• Social: relationships suffer greatly from suppressed anger: passive-aggressive behavior, rage, misunderstanding, lack of growth, disconnection.

For example, I have a client, Amy, who was repeatedly told by her self-righteous cousin, Liz, the parenting mistakes Amy was making. Amy felt hurt and defeated, then started ignoring Liz’s calls. In her work with me, Amy realized that she was

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mad because Liz was crossing a boundary. Amy decided that her anger was justified. She bravely called Liz and told her she no longer wanted Liz’s parenting advice. Liz said she was only trying to help. On their next couple of phone calls, Amy had to interrupt Liz and remind her that she did not want parenting advice. Finally, Liz stopped telling Amy how to parent, and they returned to a positive, connected relationship. Amy felt strong having set her boundaries. Perhaps Liz learned something that will help her in other relationships. Amy, for sure, learned that setting boundaries in a calm, firm manner resulted in her having a better relationship with her cousin, and a stronger sense of self-respect.

2. Rage Rage is an uncontrolled, intense expression of anger. Again, the result can be quite costly: • Physical: “In the two hours after an angry outburst, the chance of having a heart attack doubles,” says Chris Aiken, MD, an instructor in clinical psychiatry at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine and director of the Mood Treatment Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In addition, strokes have been linked to rage.

• Emotional: Uncontrolled venting to others about your feelings of rage and hostility can actually intensify the anger and create a loop of enraged thinking, resulting in a constant undercurrent of anger and obsessive thinking.

• Social: Rage can destroy relationships, whether intimate, familial, or professional.

Sam’s marriage is an example of the effects of rage. Sam was a lovely, successful tech entrepreneur. Everyone thought of Sam as the quintessential nice guy. He was, except for when he wasn’t.

PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK

Nina Clark Ericson, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist with a practice in Palo Alto. Dr. Clark Ericson helps people live more empowered, happier lives through psychotherapy, life coaching, dating coaching, and Equus Coaching (coaching with horses, not riding). Her areas of expertise include anxiety and depression, difficult life transitions, and emotional eating.

Haute HauteAMBASSADOR AMBASSADOR

PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK

BY NINA ERICSON

The following is an example of how to transform destructive anger. Susan contacted me because her anger at her ex-husband was manifesting in restless sleep, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Anger overwhelmed her. Susan complained that her ex-husband, John, thwarted her attempts to take their 6-year-old son out of state, declining permission for Susan to take their son on an “amazing” trip filled with adventure. The trip was arranged to be as COVID-safe as possible. Susan’s ex-husband had taken their son out of state the month prior on a trip that Susan had approved … and yet … and yet, he refused to sign off on the trip.

Susan was furious. Her heart raced, she felt incredibly tense. Her neck felt as tight as steel and her whole body, including her brain, felt “inflamed.”

3. Resentment Sometimes people get stuck in ongoing low-grade anger. The resentment Susan contacted me for a Zoom session.

As I asked Susan questions about the situation that was making her may focus on a spouse, a friend, or a political issue. There is an old saying that comes from AA: Holding onto anger is like taking poison and expecting angry—her ex-husband’s refusal to give her permission to take their son outof-state—Susan’s anger was triggered. Her face flushed and her voice rose in the other person to die. It doesn’t work. pitch and volume. Before Susan could access her intellect to help her manage her anger, she needed to calm herself down to a state where she could think • Physical: heart disease, exhaustion, headaches. clearly. We did a quick and simple Heartmath® exercise to engage her • Emotional: anxiety and depression. parasympathetic nervous system to calm her breathing, heartrate, thinking, • Social: isolation from friends, poor work relationships. and blood pressure.

Once Susan was in a better, calmer state, she could talk about her A client named Ellen is a great example of the cost of resentment. Ellen’s husband fell in love with another woman and left her. Terrible. Ellen got stuck frustration. Susan described John’s history of not allowing her to take their in a spiral of obsessive thinking about her ex-husband and his affair. Was her son on most out-of-state trips, and admitted a legal agreement supported his anger justified? Yes. Did it serve her to hang on to that anger and carry her right to do that. I asked Susan what reasonable action she could take to deal resentment into each moment of her life? Absolutely not. In therapy, Ellen with this situation. She answered that her ex-husband could be more mature had to learn how to forgive her ex-husband so that she could move on with and not take out his anger about the divorce on their son. Well, that was not her life. With time and new skills, Ellen began focusing on creating a new one of her options; it was John’s. She could not control what John chose to do. She could only control what she thought about the situation with John chapter in her life that didn’t include her past resentment. and what she decided to do.

Noted Author Byron Katie says, “When I argue with reality, I lose—but only 100% of the time.” It’s best to stop arguing with reality, be it a simple traffic jam or a complex relationship MANAGING YOUR ANGER with a co-parent.

To deal with anger in a healthy, constructive way, use the following steps: Rather than wasting her energy venting about John and trying 1. Name It: Recognize that you are experiencing anger. We cannot process to change him, Susan changed her thought from what John emotions if we don’t identify them. Physical manifestations of anger “should” do to what she could do. She changed her thought to “I include stomach pain, tight shoulders, back pain, headache, increased can give my son a big life in California.” Her legal agreement with heart rate, and rapid thoughts of anger. “Seeing red” is a common her son’s father stated that she could take their son anywhere in description of how it feels to be angry.

California. With California’s wealth of experiences, geographies, 2. Take a time-out: Stop what you are doing and remove yourself from the and cultures to explore, Susan could easily give her son the “big person or situation that is triggering your anger. life” she cherishes. She could give her son almost any experience 3. Breathe in deeply: Take in some deep breathes. Imagine a beautiful within the state, from skiing to surfing and everything in between. scene in nature that makes you feel peaceful. These actions will calm She could expose her son to all sorts of food and art. They could your nervous system, and you will be able to think more clearly. explore different landscapes. Susan could certainly give her son 4. Examine your thoughts: Identify what thought is causing you to feel a “big life.” angry. Yes, your thoughts cause you to be angry, not the person or After Susan accepted her situation and focused on what circumstances. Decide if the thought that triggers your anger is reasonable she could control—giving her son a wealth of experiences in and serves you. Anger about the COVID-19 quarantine or a traffic jam California—she felt a sense of relief. Susan and her son are probably doesn’t serve you. Change your thought about the situation and enjoying their big life in California! work towards acceptance.

The next time you feel angry, go through the above five steps 5. Devise a constructive solution: If you determine that the thought that to determine if changing your thought or taking constructive creates your anger is reasonable, decide upon your best response to the action is the best way to deal with the cause. Oh, and as always, situation. The other day, a friend of mine witnessed someone repeatedly don’t forget to breathe deeply! hitting his dog. She yelled at the man to stop hitting his dog. He stopped hitting his poor dog, got into his car, and drove away. She recorded his Inquire about a complimentary coaching session by emailing license plate and reported him to animal control. Justified anger against nina@ninaclarkericson.com an injustice. Constructive solution.

Sam’s wife told him that if he didn’t get therapy, she would leave. She was tired of his intense yelling and blaming when milk spilled (literally), a phone broke, or the credit card bill was high. Although Sam didn’t get angry often, when he did the resulting anxiety and tension was too much for Sam’s wife.

In therapy, I worked with Sam to help him learn the steps to manage his anger in a healthy way: leave the situation and calm himself. We dove deep into how he had learned to rage by experiencing his father’s uncontrolled anger. Sam learned to express his anger in a calm, constructive manner. And he saved his marriage.

Dr. Ericson is grateful that the aforementioned clients have given her permission to tell their stories, without identifying details, with the hope of helping others.

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BY ERIN HUNT MOORE

HauteSEAT

Joy Sterling, CEO Iron Horse Vineyards

JOY STERLING OF IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

Iron Horse Vineyards

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

Iron Horse View Across the Green Valley Vineyards from the Tasting Room

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

A toast to resilience and a sparkling life

The Holidays at Iron Horse - Winter Cuvée

NESTLED INTO ITS OWN PICTURESQUE AND lush pocket of Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley called Green Valley, Iron Horse Vineyards produces beautiful estate sparkling wines from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards planted throughout a family-owned, 300-acre ranch.

Founded by Barry and Audrey Sterling in the mid1970s, Iron Horse is a family winery and brand known for its production of world-class, elegant sparkling and still wines; its commitment to

environmental issues and stewardship of the land; and, for positively impacting its own community and world beyond. Their wines have been served at the White House for six consecutive presidential administrations, at Supreme Court dinners, State Department events, and for foreign dignitaries and royalty including the Queen of England and the President of China.

At the helm of Iron Horse Vineyards is CEO Joy Sterling, second-generation farmer and founders’

daughter, who joined the family operation in 1985 after a successful career in broadcast journalism.

She is a strong advocate for her industry, her community and region within the wine industry, and beyond on the state political stage. We took a moment to connect with her to discuss the impact this year has had on Sonoma wine country, Iron Horse’s legacy of philanthropy and community service, and what inspires her to keep moving forward in her search for quality and meaning.

“ Iron Horse is a family winery and brand known for its production of world-class, elegant sparkling and still wines; its commitment to environmental issues and stewardship of the land; and, for positively impacting its own community and world beyond.”

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HauteSEAT Q&A HAUTE LIVING X JOY STERLING

to carrying on. This bottle will always serve to remind us of what this year was about: being resilient in unprecedented and highly challenging times, getting back up again whenever we get knocked down.

HL: This is not your first cuvée in honor of a cause meaningful to you. Iron Horse has a tradition of creating special cuvées for specific causes and efforts. Tell us more.

JS: Resilience will be our 19th cuvée and what we will raise our glasses with to say goodbye to this challenging year. It is also one of several cuvees we have dedicated to special and important causes. As part of the postfire recovery effort, a portion of the proceeds from Resilience will go to the Sonoma County Resilience Fund, which is sponsored by Redwood Empire Union Bank, State Senator Mike McGuire, the Press Democrat, and many other wonderful organizations. We aim to have the first release available in time for New Year’s Eve. It will be a very limited production, roughly 200 cases. We will continue to make Resilience every year as an ongoing contribution. This is similar to our cuvée, Gratitude, which we released in November 2017 after the devastating Tubbs Fire, with $5 per bottle going to the Redwood

Empire Food Bank. Our Ocean Reserve is a special cuvée in partnership with National Geographic to support ocean conservation.

These releases are very meaningful to us and we’re happy to be making a difference. Giving back is at the core of our DNA as a family and at Iron Horse. Some of it is in self-interest: for example, the Ocean Reserve. The health of the ocean is critical to what we do here. It is the engine of our microclimate. Everything we do to benefit the good of the ocean is essential to what we do here as farmers, grape growers, and winemakers. We need that fog. We can also credit that marine layer for protecting us this year with these latest fires. In the smokiest of moments, that layer kept the ash at bay.

Contributing to a greater cause is part of our definition of overall sustainability: doing our part to make sure that we put back in more than we takine out. We are incredibly fortunate to get to live here. We are always asking what we can do to make it better.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

Joy Sterling and Mother Audrey, Iron Horse Co-Founder

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

HL: What a year it’s been—and in a region and industry that has had their share of repeated challenges. You’ve experienced fires, floods, a pandemic, and personal loss. How have you managed?

JS: What’s really strange about 2020 is that we went into the vintage feeling from our hearts that this was going to be our finest vintage ever. Everything was thriving—the growing season felt perfect, the weather was cooperative, all the flowers in the gardens were so gorgeous. We had every reason to believe that that would follow straight through to the grapes. COVID-19 hit and was definitely a challenge, but we are farmers and are incredibly lucky to be out here in this beautiful valley. And the land and grapes were happy and thriving. Then July came and my father passed, which was devastating.

We decided to dedicate this gorgeous vintage to him, which was actually bittersweet because all of these other things started happening. Early fires came very close to us. Just when we thought we had our heads above water, something else would happen. It seemed that the winery’s Friday social media posts consisted of “We’re still here!” We just kept moving, continuing forward one step at a time.

I learned that while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It was such a revelation to me that you could truly accomplish anything one step at a time: just keep moving! So, we have. And if you know my father, he would never have tolerated a complete collapse. It was so odd that we went from a sky-high optimism about the vintage to “We will get through this.” That has been the tenor of 2020 for this entire region and industry.

My greatest wish is that we all will look back at this year, drink the wines of this vintage, and talk about how strong we were. In that vein, we decided to create a special cuvée called Resilience for these times and in support of those struggling as a result. Resilience is dedicated to my always resilient father and all the other things that contribute

The Beauty of Iron Horse

HL: Iron Horse Vineyards is a family operation, and you’ve worked side-by-side with your parents and your brother, Laurence, for decades. Mixing family and business can be challenging for some. How have you made it work successfully for you?

JS: A family business is not for everybody. The great thing with us is that the four partners, my parents, brother, and I, have always agreed on what’s truly important. With regards to our business, this is especially crucial to our founding principles. The first priority is that we remain estate bottled. Our growth is not in size, but purely in quality.

Second, we are focused entirely on making only the best quality. For years, people have asked why we aren’t making a non-vintage wine. You don’t have to age it as long. It would be less expensive. The answer for us has always been quality. We’re going to make our wines to our quality level, to meet our aspirations. And we don’t feel that we are there yet. As beautiful as our wines are today, we still feel that we have mountains to climb.

That, to me, is the excitement of this industry. Every vintage is different and has its own trials and tribulations. But, with

handling the distinctions of each vintage, there is always the question: How do we take it up one more notch? What is the next thing we can do to take it to another level?

And that is what we all agree on. And once you have established that basic and essential vision, everything else is just a quibble.

I’m very lucky, because my brother manages all the vineyards. I don’t have to worry.

He knows and feels exactly the way to grow the best grapes, and that’s the foundation of what we do. We genuinely believe that this is a unique place. I believe that when you come down Ross Station Road, and crest that hill, you feel it. There is something about this place. And the grapes know it. The beauty of this place is part of our terroir. Our goal is to make wines that are gorgeous, distinctive, true to the place, and cannot be replicated anywhere else. They are unmistakably Iron Horse wines.

HL: You’ve had many incredibly interesting chapters in your own life. You lived in France for several years. You’re a Yale graduate. Your work as a journalist led you to become a Deputy Bureau Chief for ABC News in Los Angeles at age 29.

Which chapter helped you prepare most for your role and life here at Iron Horse?

JS: I feel as if all of my life experiences contributed collectively in different ways. Certainly, the most life changing experience was living in Europe. Living in France was a huge influence on my life. I was 13 years old when my family moved to France. I recall people wanting to know if I didn’t want to stay at home and be with my friends. I was like, “Are you kidding me? I’m going to live in Paris!” I was the first on the plane. That was just life changing.

Next, I would have to say being a journalist. I really need to do something that I feel is important, and I felt that journalism was critical. I remember my grandmother watching the news every night. In those days, I recall feeling that it was absolutely essential to deliver that. Being a journalist also taught me that you could pick up the phone and call anybody. I didn’t need an introduction.

I had a job to do! And I do that to this day.

Coming here gave me that same feeling of being essential. Taking care of my family, extended family, and community is just so fulfilling. It gets me out of bed in the morning.

It’s so inspiring and motivating. I need that!

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Iron Horse

Ocean-Reserve-Bottle

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HL: Who have been your top mentors and sources of inspiration? Who has influenced you the most?

JS: My parents, without a doubt. They demonstrated such passion and zest for life, a true joie de vivre. They taught me, through example and encouragement, that life is more than one path. You can have successive lives or chapters in your life, and that is truly liberating! If you find that the direction you choose is not working, you can change and enjoy many different lives—and that's ok.

With life expectancy increasing, we have an opportunity to pursue dreams and to do so much more. I do want to give a special mention to my mother. My entire life, I have looked in the mirror and said, “Please God, let me be like my mother.” She is just the personification of grace.

HL: You’re a wonderful example of a leading woman and thought leader in the wine industry. What words of advice do you have for women interested in the wine industry?

JS: I would say, if you are interested in working in the wine industry, just do it! I think the wine world is fabulous for women. Of course, I’m a champion for equality, but I also feel that women excel at the wine business. I think that it is a great opportunity for women, and I encourage women to start somewhere.

Leverage your skills. You can choose where you’d like to focus them, and there are so many arenas to choose from. It isn’t just winemaking. It could be writing, marketing, grape growing, history, geology, soil science, regenerative agriculture, and technology.

Technology will become increasingly important. The best part of the industry, without a doubt, is the people. And perhaps another reason women tend to excel in this industry is our fabulous people skills! Above all, we have an incredible community and base of women supporting each other in this industry. The door is wide open!

HL: Beyond your leadership role at Iron Horse, you have long been a leader in social impact initiatives and political advocacy. Where are you focusing your energies?

JS: My family has always been politically active and engaged. I went to my first political rally when I was eight years old! I believe that it’s important to have and share one’s voice and influence. I am chair of the California Democratic Party Rural Caucus, am on a working group for the FCC, and am an active board member of the California Food & Agriculture Board. One of my personal passion projects is universal broadband. If there ever was a time to ensure access to technology and communications this is it! The pandemic has revealed the chasm and how serious it is. I understand that there are so many issues to be addressed, but in my opinion, solving those problems would be greater facilitated if we had broadband. Public safety, education, etc.—to me, it is no different than rural electrification which happened 80 years ago.

One of our great accomplishments as a state is getting a clean drinking water bill passed. Now it is our job to remind our elected officials to stop and consider the impact that their decisions have on rural communities and to see that those commitments are honored.

HL: If someone told you years ago that one day your family would be making sparkling wines and that you would be at the helm of a winery and brand, how would you have reacted?

JS: I would have been thrilled, though it would not have surprised me in the least. My parents dreamed of having vineyards early on and started looking for property in France while we lived there. They first looked in the Calvados region of Normandy. When my mother learned that the best use of byproducts for Calvados production was pig farming, she wasn't quite as interested. We came very close to closing on a property in Bordeaux, but the opportunity fell through.

My parents brought us all home to the U.S. in 1974, and we returned to California. It was soon thereafter that my parents founded Iron Horse Vineyards. And, as far as my own life here at the head of this beautiful property and brand, in this stunning valley filled with lush vineyards and gardens together with my family and an incredible extended family,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IRON HORSE VINEYARDS

HauteSEAT

I would have thought it was a dream. And it is. I feel so very grateful.

HL: If you could enjoy a glass of Iron Horse bubbles and a delicious meal with anyone, who would it be?

JS: My first answer is highly personal: my father.

I was very close to him and miss him every day. Beyond that, I would say Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Winston Churchill. We hosted Justice Ginsburg at the winery. She was absolutely lovely, charming, and quiet—not an overwhelming personality. I would have loved more time with her. One of my favorite stories involves my two nieces. My father graduated from Stanford Law School with William Renquist and Sandra Day O’Connor, and my nieces had the opportunity to meet Justice O’Connor. Later, they were in attendance when Justice Ginsburg visited, after which they decided that all Supreme Court Justices were women. Justice Ginsburg would have been proud!

HL: What is your favorite way to enjoy your beautiful sparkling wines? Do you have a favorite stemware?

JS: I’m lovingly known in my family as "Bubblehead." I drink sparkling wine with everything! One of my favorite pairings is sparkling wine and potato chips. But I also love sparkling wine with steak. I’m not particularly fussy about glassware, though I’m very fussy about quality. Wine will taste different in different glasses. I am partial to drinking bubbles out of a Burgundy glass. It makes me feel like James Bond or a warrior queen.

But I also appreciate the flute, which tends to hold the bubbles better and is ideal for younger wine.

HL: You are a celebrated hostess known for your hospitality. Do you have an entertaining philosophy?

JS: I was definitely influenced by my years in France and my mother who is an extraordinary hostess. Every moment offers an opportunity for celebration, whether an intimate evening with friends or a larger dinner party. I always keep at least two bottles of sparkling chilling in the fridge, just in case!

My absolute priority and rule number one in entertaining: making sure that no glass

is empty. I am such a planner, and creating a beautiful ambiance is where my heart is. Flowers set the tone. Creating anticipation with the right invitation is also important—that is so much a part of the party! I find the follow-up and preparation prior to a party almost as exciting as the party itself.

I just hosted a virtual birthday party on Zoom. That was definitely a first for me.

There were 80 people in attendance, six in one location, the others spread out across the country. It was lively and fun, but quite a logistical feat to ensure that the correct wines had arrived and were being served and menus were aligned. Virtual entertaining, the new normal!

HL: As we’ve discussed, these have certainly been challenging times. What do you do to relax and decompress?

JS: I have really taken advantage of these times to dive into self-care. We all need that! A silver lining for me with this pandemic is that I started yoga and prioritize time on the mat almost every morning. I swim in the evenings. I love to dance. I feel as if I’m in the best shape I’ve been! And then, there is always a glass of bubbles and Balzac. I love my French authors!

Gratitude Cuvée

The Perfect Holiday Setting Iron Horse's Gratitude Cuvée

119

California Lifestyle Collection Penthouse with Panoramic Golden Gate Bridge Views

2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths Located in one of San Francisco’s most favorite neighborhoods, this rarely-available penthouse is in one of Cow Hollow’s best new condo buildings. Built in 2014, the Amero on the corner of Van Ness Avenue and Filbert Street is a boutique 27 unit building with an elegant spacious lounge lobby with fireplace and stunning roof deck with BBQ’s, outdoor dining area and outdoor lounge with fire-pit for each penthouse. The penthouse interior features beautiful wide-plank hardwood floors with dramatic open floor plan with wall to wall glass and magnificent views of Russian Hill, entire Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Bay and magical night lights of Russian Hill, Nob Hill and Pacific Heights buildings.

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Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

California Lifestyle Collection Penthouse with Panoramic Golden Gate Bridge Views

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

San Francisco, California

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