HudsonMOD February/March 2014 by MOD Media, LLC

F E B R U A R Y/ M A R C H 2 0 1 4

Travel, Food &Wine Issue! Geoffrey Zakarian’s

Next Big Move hudsonmod.com

Stunning and Useful: Ultimate Kitchens Where to Get the World’s Rarest Gems The Meaner, Sexier Rolls-Royce Sotheby’s Wine Expert — What to Drink NOW A 5-Star Amazon Adventure

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INSIDE F E BRUA RY/ M A RCH 2 014

68 Features 48 Geoffrey Zakarian’s Next Big Move Inspired by travel, simple tastes and an endless desire to accentuate his cuisine with the perfect space. BY SIMON MURRAY

54 The Heart of the Home Luxury Kitchens: Living the good life in the heart of the modern home. BY TERRY WARD

60 The Suite Life of Seabourn Pampered beyond expectations on the world’s top “suite” cruise ship. BY PHYLLIS HARBINGER

68 The Art of Travel We look into the places where travel, a passion for art and portfolio enhancement cross paths. BY TY SAWYER

Departments 16

THE EDITOR

THE PUBLISHER

CONTRIBUTORS

EXPERIENCE

DRINK

GENTLEMEN

WATER

SHELTER

WHEELS

TASTE

COVET

GORGEOUS

ENCORE

THE COVER: Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakarian was photographed by Brook Pifer, Styled by Shana Newstadt, Geoffrey’s attire includes a Robert Graham Velvet Sport Coat, a Tom Ford shirt and bow tie, Paul Smith trousers and Ferragamo shoes. Make-up and hair by ECRU. Shot on location at the chef’s famed Lambs Club at the Chatwal Hotel on 44th Street in Manhattan.

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THE EDITOR

EXPANDING THE DAY

’d just come from Sotheby’s. They’d announced their top selling wines of the year and in celebration they brought together a small gathering of media to share the findings, and, better yet, to share some of the vintages. In the compilation of banner days in life, even in the Life Well Lived world of HudsonMOD, few other days have left me feeling as expansive. But, I’m a wine lover, and great bottles of wine to me enrich the experience of life. The day started off with a Jeff Koons’ Limited Edition Dom Perignon Champagne, and the artist made a Balloon Venus specially to hold the bottle. It’s a 2004 vintage, an intimate balance between Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, elegant and harmonious the way any champagne should be with such a heady, dual association — and my first thought was, every day should start with champagne. As the afternoon unfurled (surrounded by distinguished works of art to match the exquisite craft of the winemakers), the wines began to elevate the day. The first bottle proffered by Jamie Ritchie, the CEO of Sotheby’s Wine in NYC, came from Tenuta San Guido, Italy, and was one of the country’s most celebrated wines, a 2001 Sassicaia. To balance it, at least geographically, Ritchie had brought it out with a 2004 Opus One, a California Napa Valley legend, which

really needs no introduction. These two brilliant wines, especially after the Dom Perignon, served as the palette stimulators. On their own, both wines are strong, delicate, complex and intimate enough to make any day better. Together, the wines had already left an impact and we really had to wonder what was next. Next, Jamie brought out two of the big Bordeaux guns from the Sotheby’s list. A 1995 Chateau Haut-Brion, and a 2005 Domaine de la RomaneeConti “Echezeaux”. These are two wine-making Chateau that have surely found their place next to the pearly gates. DRC wines accounted for $7.2 M in sales for Sotheby’s, the number one slot; Haut-Brion a not-too-shabby

We celebrate and embrace every aspect of the luxe life.

$4.6 M. By the time we had finished both, I could have been convinced of just about anything. I didn’t even want to drink water for several hours afterward because I could still sense the exceptional wine’s aroma about me. In one day, I’d traveled the world through these wines, fed my soul, experienced something rare and unforgettable, and the HudsonMOD ethos of Live Well Lived coursed through my veins on fire. Why do I tell you this story? Because at this magazine we celebrate and embrace every aspect of the luxe life; we seek it out, live it and bring it to you for your enjoyment on the silver platter of these pages. And, when we find something that makes the journey even better, we most certainly have to share. Cheers, TY SAWYER

K I T C H E N S

P A N E L L E D

I N T E R I O R S

b y

C L I V E

C H R I S T I A N

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THE PUBLISHER

HUDSONMOD’S NOBLE VENTURE FOR 2014

Robert Graham, The Mall at Short Hills Fashion designer and Robert Graham founder, Robert Stock and the HudsonMOD team at the Holiday Event, benefiting the Kids Closet at the Community Foodbank of NJ.

ollywood here we come! HudsonMOD is honored to have partnered with Hollywood Domino and Artists for Peace & Justice on their 7th Annual Oscar event in February. This year, Gerard Butler, Jon Hamm, Kevin Jonas, Olivia Wilde, Jared Leto and Maria Bello have joined the host committee to assist in making this event more spectacular than ever. This event goes beyond just the glitz and the glamour of the red carpet that usually comes to mind when hearing the term “Oscars”. This group consisting of more than 300 top celebrities is on a heart-felt mission to raise aware-

ness and funding for the children of Haiti. The proceeds from this event will help empower local communities, foster economic growth and provide education to children. I can’t think of a better way to kick off the New Year other than being a part of something so significant. There are so many good friends and partners, like Daya Fernandez, David Cote, Diem Brown, Georgina Bloomberg, just to name a few that have inspired us with their philanthropy, we decided to set our own lofty charitable goal this year. We want to help raise a minimum of $1 Million for those in need through our numerous annual

events, partnerships and by motivating our readers. I hope that you’ll join us and allow HudsonMOD to be the inspiration to kick-off and support your philanthropic goals for 2014. Our events with such notable partnerships as Van Cleef & Arpels, Robert Graham, California Closets, Champagne & Song, Lux for Life with Yanina & Co., among a long list of others, will help make reaching these goals an exciting social experience. We’ll keep track of our philanthropic successes throughout the year in real time on hudsonmod. com. Be sure to check in frequently and join us on this noble venture as we connect the dots from event to event, and person to person. Many of the most successful people I know don’t measure themselves by how much they acquire, but by how much they share, and by how that sharing enriches the lives of others. We at HudsonMOD believe in that ethos. SHANNON STEITZ

OUR EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS TERRY WARD Writer Freelance travel writer Terry Ward divides her time between Florida and southwest France. She has written for many publications including the Washington Post, Ritz-Carlton Magazine and Departures International while living abroad in such diverse spots as Bali, Hamburg and Auckland. When she’s not writing or traveling, you can find her skiing, scuba diving or making jewelry. Among her favorite travel destinations is Arctic Norway, for which she put together this month’s roundup of travel and beauty accessories. More: terry-ward.com

LIFE WELL LIVED

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 VO L U M E T H R E E , N U M B E R O N E

hudsonmod.com

@HudsonMOD

Ty Sawyer Editor in Chief DESIGN DIRECTOR Jared

Weinberger Murray ONLINE EDITOR Amanda Thorogood FASHION EDITOR Engie Hassan FASHION STYLIST Shana Newstadt COPY CHIEF Dana Schlesinger SENIOR EDITOR Simon

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS

Marianella Orlando, Michael Scrivner

BROOK PIFER Photographer Brook Pifer is an award-winning photographer and director based out of New York City. On this assignment: Collaborating with the HudsonMOD team for the cover was an absolute treat, made even sweeter by our approachable subject Geoffrey Zakarian. We started off the day shooting in the Stanford White room at The Lambs Club, followed by various setups throughout the restaurant. We ended the day capturing street scenes in the heart of the theater district, one block from Times Square. Geoffrey is total class combined with an inner swagger reminiscent of Sammy Davis Jr.” Her incredible imagery graces the cover and cover story, page 44. Brookpifer.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Phyllis Harbinger, Amanda McElroy, Robin Suerig Holleran, Terry Ward CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mike Bessire, Brook Pifer, Nato Tuke

Shannon Steitz Publisher ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Christopher Burns SALES/MARKETING DIRECTOR

ENGIE HASSON HudsonMOD Fashion Editor Engie Hassan is the new Fashion Editor for HudsonMOD and a New Jersey native. Through her company, EngieStyle she has styled royalty, celebrities, models and a long list of high net-worth clients. She cultivated her eye while traveling the world, and her fashion style and sensibility can be seen on the red carpets of both coasts, including runway shows in NYC. She’ll be bringing her couture sense, intuition for future trends, deep passion for clothes and personalized style to the pages of HudsonMOD. We’re thrilled to have her on-board, and you’ll see her savvy and sophisticated touch throughout the pages of our magazine. For more: engiestyle.com

JAMIE RITCHIE CEO & President Americas and Asia Sotheby’s Wine Since joining Sotheby’s in London in 1990 as one of the world’s leading authorities on wine, Jamie Ritchie has been responsible for a long list of extraordinary sales, including the highest grossing wine auction in 1999, totaling $14.4 M. He moved to New York City in 1995, after setting up and running wine sales in Germany, New York, Zurich and Los Angeles. He’s frequently seen on television as an expert in wines from around the world, and in addition to leading auctions, he hosts tastings, charity auctions and counts on his broad travels around the world of the grape to deepen his expert knowledge. Elevate your palette with his HudsonMOD worthy picks on page 34.

Chris Pellegrino ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Vanessa DeNotaris, Christine Wood, Danielle Mazzurco MARKETING MANAGER Amanda Thorogood CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Lauren Mena WEB DEVELOPER Larry Volmer GRAPHIC DESIGNERS, ADVERTISING SERVICES

George Costello, Jared Weinberger Esposito

MARKETING ASSISTANT Michelle

For advertising inquiries call 973.249.6157 or email advertising@hudsonmod.com For all editorial inquiries contact editorial@hudsonmod.com For subscription information and customer service contact circulation@hudsonmod.com HudsonMOD is published by MOD Media, LLC

JASON LEMBO Chief Executive Officer

SHANA NEWSTADT Sylist Shana Newstadt is an innovative and passionate Fashion Stylist and Personal Shopper based in the NJ/NY Metro area. Shana’s “look” is elegant and sophisticated with a bit of edge and sexiness. “It was an absolute pleasure to work with Geoffrey,” remarked Shana. “He is as cool in person as he is on TV. His fantastic personality and easiness set the tone for an incredible shoot and brought out the best in everyone, creatively.” Her portfolio ranges from celebrity to fashion, beauty and wedding editorials as well as personal shopping. For more: shananewstadt.com

SHANNON STEITZ President

MOD MEDIA, LLC info@modmedia.com 973.249.6157

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R4.0: LUXURY BOOT CAMP BY AMANDA THOROGOOD

At R4.0, self-indulgence meets sacrifice—with fantastic, fun results. The lap of luxury isn’t always comfortable, I discovered recently. From expansive yachts with every amenity imaginable to diamonds of a blinding clarity to fine wines aged to perfection, the world is full of riches. But occasionally, to truly indulge the senses, extravagant living involves hard work, sacrifice and mental toughness. Achieving this holistic state is the goal of R4.0, a “luxury boot camp” that turns the notion of hedonistic excess on its head—just in time to satisfy that lingering New Year’s resolution we’ve all been putting off for what seems like weeks.

HUDSONMOD

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

Immersed in an environment of skyscrapers, tweets, posts, deadlines and tethered to an electronic device that seems to be a permanent fixture in my hand, I welcomed the chance to leave it all behind for a few days to reconnect with myself and disconnect from the technologies that demand constant attention. The thought of doing so from the luxe accommodations at the Four Seasons Westlake Village, in California, far from the frigid tundra of Manhattan in mid-January, sold me on the idea. R4.0 awaited, and I couldn’t pack my bags fast enough.

EXPERIENCE

A sister program of The Ranch at Live Oak’s seven-day experience, R4.0 is a quick Thursday-through-Monday wellness retreat focused on weight loss, mental health and proper nutrition. Through a partnership with the California Health & Longevity Institute (CHLI), which shares a residence at the Four Seasons, the carefully crafted program provides all of the ingredients for a journey of personal transformation: challenging morning hikes; classes focused on resistance training and core strength; metabolic testing; professionally prepared vegan cuisine; and a knowledgeable, encouraging staff. Unlike the original, completely off-the-grid Ranch at Live Oak, the Four Seasons Westlake Village certainly boasts amazing accommodations. And although there are plenty of perks—and perhaps a few temptations—I won’t sugarcoat it: R4.0 is not a relaxing spa weekend in SoCal. If you want days that are spent with cucumber slices over your eyes, the line forms elsewhere. Instead, R4.0 is in a class all its own. I pushed myself—physically and mentally—to limits that I never considered possible. In the end, I was proud of completing the program and immensely grateful to the staff and other participants for helping me

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

EXPERIENCE

Having seen positive changes in my weight, energy level and mood after those four intense days, I am eager to continue on this path.

24 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

achieve this goal—a goal I didn’t know I could accomplish. Although I initially reveled in the opportunity to sip a latte and loll around through four days of missed news feeds upon my return, I was truly transformed by R4.0. Having seen positive changes in my weight, energy level and mood after those four intense days, I am eager to continue on this path.

Although some guests don’t adhere to the strict diet and workout regimen set forth by the R4.0 staff, I packed a number of life lessons into my luggage to take home with me. I’m more conscious about my eating habits and more willing to push myself in the gym. I have experienced the luxury of a healthier lifestyle, and that’s worth more to me than a dazzling pair of diamonds ever could.

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DRINKEXPERT ADVICE FROM SOTHEBY’S

f the many things that transcend their worth and enrich our lives, wine is the most ephemeral. Although collectable wines grow in value over time—unlike many luxury items and investments—wine is meant to be shared and consumed—to elevate the soul and then linger as a fond memory. The finest vintages have been described as bottled poetry. Exceptional and collectable wines offer something that no other luxury item can: a direct experience with an art perfected. To drink fine wine is to become familiar with the land and with the craftsman—to capture a moment of time and a sense of place that is as intimate as a kiss. Wine experts can learn a great deal about a wine from the aroma that rises from a glass. It is the essence of something personal and individual and absolutely not replicable that makes great wine the epitome of fine art. This month, HudsonMOD turns to one of the world’s top wine experts, Jamie Ritchie, CEO and president of Sotheby’s Wine in New York, to tap into his knowledge of the world of wine and to showcase not only the poetry that belongs on our tables now but also the vintages that will make our cellars and collections even more exceptional. And since this is our travel issue, we asked Ritchie for tips on where to stay and what to eat when we embark on our winefocused excursions. A votre santé. — Ty Sawyer

Bordeaux WINE: Château Corbin

This is one of the greatest-value Bordeaux from Saint-Émilion, on the Right Bank of the Dordogne River and run by the talented and charming Anabelle Cruse-Bardinet. VINTAGES: Try the 2001 ($44.95) for a mature, ready-to-drink-now wine; the 2005 ($59.95) for a great vintage that can be enjoyed now or laid down in the cellar; or the very succulent 2009 ($39.95) if you like younger wines. THE EXCEPTIONAL: If you’re looking for something truly exceptional to grace your collection, the 2005 Ausone Saint-Émilion ($2,995) was rated 100 by Wine Spectator. Note: It will drink best after cellaring until 2020. FAVORITE HOTEL: Without a doubt, it is the Les Sources de Caudalie, down in the Graves/Pessac-Léognan region. We use it as a base for client trips, and it has never disappointed. It’s a great setting among the vines of Château Smith Haut Lafitte—a wonderful property that, like the hotel, is also owned by the delightful and successful Cathiard family. FAVORITE RESTAURANT: La Tupina—a classic French restaurant, with serious meat, which goes perfectly with the wine. —Jamie Ritchie, CEO, Sotheby’s Wine

Burgundy WINE: Françoise et Denis Clair makes both reds and whites. For white, try the Saint Aubin, Sur le Sentier du Clou, 1er Cru, 2011 ($29.95), a lovely, full chardonnay, with great acidity and a lemonlime minerality. For red, try Beaurepaire 2011 ($32.95), a pinot noir that has a lovely red fruit and is both juicy and bright, but elegant, with enough body. THE EXCEPTIONAL: For something unforgettable, almost anything from the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti selections will add elegance, refinement and character to your table or cellar. Try the mature and ready-to-drink La Tache, Grand Cru, 1990 ($4,795); or, from the same vintage, the Romanée-Conti, Grand Cru, 1990 ($18,995). FAVORITE HOTEL: We always stay at Le Montrachet for convenience; it is right in the middle of Puligny-Montrachet and has a lovely village atmosphere. FAVORITE RESTAURANT: There are many great places to eat and drink in Burgundy, but my favorite is the relaxed and informal Ma Cuisine, in the center of Beaune. —Jamie Ritchie, CEO, Sotheby’s Wine

For more fine wine selections, go online at hudsonmod.com

26 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

GENTLEMENGLOBETROTTER

TIME TRAVELS BY SIMON MURRAY

aking up in Hong Kong, departing from Abu Dhabi, making a pit stop at LAX, setting course for the Amalfi coast. For the businessman or gentleman traveler, skirting the globe, like dancing, involves the right moves and the proper attire, and timing is everything. That’s why there’s no time like the present to get the right gear for traveling well. Knowing the right components to look for when making your selections makes all the difference. “Today’s globe-trotting executive increasingly looks for a dual-time or multi-time-zone watch to keep track of his worldwide affairs. Many of these complicated timepieces have become excellent investments as well,” says Reginald Brack, director of private sales, watches, at Christie’s. Navigate the ever-spinning world with these mechanical marvels that feature useful elements, such as a world timer, a time-zone adjuster and a chronograph. No pilot lessons required.

28 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

1. Ulysse Nardin Sonata Streamline This watchmaking house, known for its iconic anchor, is steeped in a rich history of crafting maritime chronometers. In the 18th century, sailors on long sea voyages would use such portable timepieces to navigate the uncharted world. Today, the Sonata Streamline marks another milestone in the company’s longstanding quest for innovation. Whether at sea or abroad on business, dials track a 24hour alarm setting and dual time zones. Combining a durable titanium case with lustrous 18-karat rose gold adds to the Streamline’s captivating, superyachtinspired design. > Ritz-Carlton, Central Park;

3. Girard-Perregaux Traveller WW.TC The World-Wide Time Control collection by GP was designed with the globe-trotting gentleman in mind—someone who needs a helpful tool attached to his wrist. The Traveller WW.TC is such an instrument. Encased in steel, the functions are arrayed around an inner globe on the face and include hour, minute, small second, world-time indicator, chronograph and date. For those who prefer a subtle yet refined style, this watch lends a bold, clean look. > The Timepiece Collection; Englewood, NJ. Girard-perregaux.com

2. Zenith Pilot Doublematic In the early days of aviation, Zenith manufactured the onboard instruments— including precision timekeeping dials—that eventually became standard equipment on the dashboards of French airplanes. The Pilot Doublematic is a modern-day tribute to this storied past. The names of 24 cities and regions are arranged around the dial, which, when illuminated by the inner disk bearing black and white zones, indicates the time of day around the world. Coupled with Zenith’s high-frequency El Primero chronograph movement, the Doublematic will make sure you’re always on time. > The Timepiece Collection; Englewood, NJ.

4. Bovet Rising Star A member of the Grand Complications collection, the Rising Star is the most complicated timepiece ever manufactured by the house of Bovet. Here’s why: 608 components combine to form two independent time-zone dials and a disk of 24 cities representing the world’s different time zones. But the Amadeo 18-karat white-gold case is easily the best feature of all. The Rising Star features a second, reversible face that can become a miniature table clock or a pocket watch. Fleurier Quality Foundation (FQF) certification assures the wearer that the Rising Star is the most complicated timepiece produced today. > Ritz-Carlton, Central Park;

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THE PATH LESS TRAVELED Utupua, Malekula, the Amazon, the Poor Knights and the shores of the Rhine River: enter the exclusive realm of the luxury boutique cruise ship. BY SIMON MURRAY

30 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

Close to 70 percent of the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface is covered in water, and much of it is well traveled. International harbors regularly accommodate cruise liners, from which hundreds or even thousands of passengers pour out en masse, instantly switching from travelers to a tourist horde. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d rather skip the crowds and discover the breathtaking mysteries, local surprises, daily lives and pure wonder of the first explorers, set sail on one of the boutique luxury-expedition ships that ply remote inlets, exotic rivers and small waterways. A river that reaches into little-seen regions becomes an artery into the very heart and soul of commerce, culture and nature, granting access to a level of familiarity rarely encountered by tourists. Doing so surrounded by the sumptuous amenities of a specialized luxury liner will turn that passport stamp into an unforgettable, memory-laden badge of distinction.

WATER

M/V Aqua AMAZON RIVER, PERU, SOUTH AMERICA Every week, the M/V Aqua, the 130-foot flagship of cruise line Aqua Expeditions, takes 24 passengers deep into the Peruvian Amazon to explore a jungle seldom visited. On daily water-based excursions, under the tutelage of expert guides, you’ll search for indigenous flora and fauna, including pink dolphins and three-toed sloths, and you’ll learn about some of the native folklore. Back on board the M/V Aqua, you’ll enjoy fine wine and haute cuisine before relaxing in five-star comfort in one of only 12 spacious staterooms that feature wall-to-wall windows. There is also an observation deck and a lounge area, where you’ll be able to sit back, sip South American wine and watch the constant spectacle of a tropical rain forest teeming with rare wildlife.

National Geographic Orion PACIFIC ISLANDS AND AUSTRALIA On March 19, join Lindblad Expeditions on the inaugural voyage of the National Geographic Orion, a ship designed for transporting explorers to the far reaches of the world in unparalleled comfort. As you travel from New Zealand’s North Island to the Solomon Sea in the wake of Captain Cook, you’ll have the chance to stand at the edge of the Mt. Yasur volcano, which has been active for more than 800 years; snorkel amid the stilled memories of World War II wreckage; and visit South Pacific islands, such as Utupua, Ngella, Ile des Pins and Santa Ana, for a glimpse of native cultures that few travelers ever encounter. Captain Cook sailed with some of the best and bravest of his day; you’ll do the same as you island hop for 14 days with a team of veteran crewmembers, including an expedition leader and undersea specialists, cultural experts, divemasters and National Geographic photographers.

A-ROSA Flora RHINE NORTH TULIPS This year marks the newest addition to A-ROSA‘s fleet of all-inclusive luxury riverboats. Once you’ve boarded the 443-foot Flora, you’ll travel along the winding rivers that connect Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, giving you the opportunity to explore the iconic cities and landscapes of Cologne, Antwerp and Amsterdam. A total of just 83 staterooms and suites will keep the passenger list to a minimum, ensuring plenty of personalized attention from the crew. Heated pools, putting greens, a gym, a sauna and a wine bar will enhance your escape from the ordinary. Be a part of the maiden voyage when the riverboat launches on April 10.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

SHELTERMY MOVEABLE CLOSET

CHIC BAGS BY ENGIE HASSAN Fashion Editor

FOR THE LOVE OF GUCCI Gucci Tote Blue Monogram $1,250 Be a Gucci goddess wherever you go with this luxury tote. It’s perfect and verstaile enough for a long weekend trip to the Hamptons. The fabric and weave of this tote also makes it ideal for pool and beach, and posh enough to take along to dinner.

LOVE AT FIRST SPIKE Christian Louboutin Syd Backpack $2,395 It was love at first sight with our “Syd.” The ultimate accessory for the sartorial gentleman or classy woman who wants to reveal an edgy side — this chic backpack is the definition of luxury and style. The ultimate accessory for the Loubi lover.

CLASSIC VUITTON Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Pegase 60 Rolling Luggage $2,870

EASY RIDER Tumi Vapor Collection Extended Trip Packing $725

Perfect for the savvy, fashionable and classic traveler. The craftsmanship is extraordinary, the wheels soundless and the detail work will make a statement that you’re someone who understand quality in everything you do.

This Tumi roller is perfect for an extended ski trip, or a jaunt to a far edge of the world. With its hard yet elegant case and multi-directional rolling wheels, it’s both durable and easy to move from A to B. In this case, no pun intended, your trip will be easy rolling and stress free!

POSH SPICE Bottega Veneta Nappa Tote $3,900 The Bottega Nappa tote is perfect for a weekend getaway to the beach house. Not too big to be overbearing and not too small to just be an oversize bag, it allows for the perfect amount of room for a few outfits and that sexy bathing suit you’ve been dying to rock.

Jetting off to the Cayman Islands or the mountains of Colorado? These items will have you looking stylish from the moment you step out of the house. From rolling suitcases to backpacks, the following list of luxury luggage will make your travels as stress-free — and fashionable — as possible. Whether it’s an LV or a GG you know you’re traveling in the utmost style, and these practical luxury items will have passersby doing double-takes. The airport can become your runway with these supremely well-crafted designer luggage pieces. Mix and match to create the perfect travel set.

HUDSONMOD

WINTER 2012

THE WEEKENDER Louis Vuitton Vintage Weekend Bag $255-$700 The versatility of this classic LV look is what has kept it in style since it was first introduced in the market in 1924. Goes to show, good style is timeless.

WHEELSROLLS-ROYCE WRAITH

SCOTTSDALE

TONTO NATIONAL FOREST

A BOLDER SPIRIT OF ECSTASY BY SIMON MURRAY

e’re on a lonely road in the middle of the desert. In these desiccated hills, there is little life, least of all movement, as most inhabitants choose a sedentary and shade-seeking lifestyle to escape the relentless heat of Arizona’s summer sun. So it’s a curious sight when, all of a sudden, four Rolls-Royce roadsters painted Gunmetal Black, Salamanca Blue and Jubilee Silver come racing along the skinny strip of pavement that winds through the austere expanse, with nothing save Saguaro cactus and scrub as far as the eye can see. Along the way, we pass travelers in dusty automobiles that turn a surprised eye

34 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

to look and wonder. One driver in a van gives us the finger, another on a motorcycle gives a thumbs-up. And still we keep racing, past rock spires and creeping desert brush that comes all the way up to the shoulder. Outside of a wealthy little corner in the southwest that is Scottsdale, Arizona, beyond the gleaming metropolis and far from the masseuses and the golf course water spritzers at the various resorts and spas, the route takes us through the beautifully rugged country of the Tonto National Forest. Driving across varying altitudes, we pass through Breaking Bad trailer parks and between the outstretched strata and canyons of

Cormac McCarthy terrain. We’re out here with a purpose: We’ve been given the task of breaking the traditional tea-and-crumpets Rolls-Royce message, to provide a more masculine rebranding, if you will. So, right now, the bright, dazzling Salamanca Blue 2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith that I’m driving is cresting a hill going a speed unrepeatable here—screw it, 125 mph, baby! Burled wood, hand-stitched leather and now a real flying phantom. Even the roadrunners can’t catch us. Jockeying for position like some plush and flash Pony Express, the four coupes eventually fall into single file to cross a suspension bridge—the only architecture for miles.

IWC Portuguese. engIneered for navIgators.

Portuguese Chronograph Classic.

windless conditions. Whether you’re aboard a

Ref. 3904: The fact that Portugal’s greatest

h i s to r i c th re e - m a s te r o r a m o d e r n m oto r

seafarers are remembered to this day is due

yacht, its state -of-the -a r t te chnolog y a nd

not least to this watch: the appliquéd Arabic

classic design soon make it clear who’s giving

numerals and the railway track chapter ring

the orders.

iwc . engineered for men .

elegantly reference its legendar y forerunner from the 1930s. But today’s sea-going pioneers are equally well equipped with the Chronograph Classic. The IWC-manufactured automatic 89361-calibre movement and its 68-hour power reser ve keep it firmly on course even under

Mechanical chronograph movement, Self-winding, 68-hour power reserve when fully wound, Date display, Stopwatch function, Hour and minute counters combined in a totalizer at 12 o’clock, Flyback function, See-through sapphire-glass back, Water-resistant 3 bar, Diameter 42 mm, Stainless steel

SPECS MSRP:

At the checkpoint overlooking a reservoir, eight suicide doors open, and out step eight journalists who have just experienced the ride of a lifetime. Only hours before, Richard Carter, director of global communications for Rolls-Royce, had addressed us in an executive suite at The Phoenician, a AAA Five Diamond resort. His message was clear: The old-fashioned, chauffeur-driven, granddaddy, slowmotion, pinky-up experience that evokes the Rolls-Royce of old just won’t do. Not with the 2014 Wraith. It’s a dramatic, cutting-edge piece of technology that needs to be driven to be truly experienced. “But we don’t like to use the word sporty, either,” Richard reminded us. “It’s a car for crossing continents.” With a name like Wraith, it’s already beyond the weaksounding “sporty” category, anyway. Elegant and ghostly; a new, defiant category of luxury rides. As if to test that notion, Richard handed over the keys and gave us a partner and a map; the rest was up to us. Over the course of the next three hours, leaving the city and entering the

36 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

wilderness of the fifth largest “forest” in the US along a 210-mile loop, what I quickly realize behind the wheel of this machine is how effortless it is to drive—and drive well—a roadster of this caliber. Linking the GPS data to the gearbox, the onboard valet switches gears for the driver, based on the upcoming composition and geography of the terrain. So whether that’s going up and around a canyon, crossing a desert or driving the kids to school, the Wraith performs with grace and stability. Without sacrificing an ounce of the timeless elegance (or exclusivity) that pervades every bespoke creation at the marque’s Goodwood factory, the new Wraith is unafraid of occupying a unique space alone for the time being. After opening the electric colored doors of the single- and two-tone fastbacks to sit and relish for a moment in the cool, plush interiors, the eight journalists once again set off across the vast countryside. There’s plenty of road still to be explored, as the engines growl to life and the rubber burns down another dusty trail.

$284,900 PERFORMANCE:

Twin turbo V12 Top speed: 155 mph Acceleration 0-60 time: 4.4 Seconds TRANSMISSION:

Eight-speed automatic ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY:

> Satellite Aided Transmission > Wireless Car Hotspot > Spirit of Ecstasy Rotary Controller U.S. WRAITH PACKAGE ($38,825):

Bespoke Audio, Comfort Entry System, RR Monogram on all Headrests, Fixed-Glass Roof, 21inch Seven-Spoke Fully Polished Wheels, Driver’s Assistance Systems Three, Camera System. Can be upgraded with Starlight Headliner in place of Fixed-Glass Roof and 21-inch Five-Spoke Part-Polished Wheels in place of 21-inch Seven-Spoke Wheels. ORIGINAL MODEL:

The 1938 Rolls-Royce Wraith DESIGN:

Two-tone paint combinations add another level of personalization. The Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament has also been moved forward by five degrees, giving the angelic figurine a more mischievous and dynamic stance.

LUX

FOR LIFE Hosted by: Yanina & Co. Fine Jewelers and Blanche Garcia, Interior Designer and of Travel Channel’s Hotel Impossible

Thursday, March 27th, 2014 6:00pm- 8:00pm YANINA & CO. 451-455 Pompton Ave. Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 Wine, Champagne, and Hors D’oeuvres Explore the latest accessories for your home and for you. Featuring Lusive Lighting products and Yanina & Co.’s Spring Collection . Meet and Greet with Blanche and Yanina to ﬁnd what accessories ﬁt your style and personality!

To R.S.V.P call 908-607-1800 or e-mail events@hudsonmod.com.

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

 

TASTETHE LAMBS CLUB, 132 W 44TH, NYC

BY SIMON MURRAY

n the Fall of 2010, Geoffrey Zakarian brought his signature cuisine and a resplendent, Empire Deco design to The Chatwal Hotel. Drawing inspiration from the first American theater club, The Lambs, as well as the storied history of The Great White Way (early nickname for Broadway), The Lambs Club Restaurant and Bar is Zakarian’s classic, yet distinctively modern approach to American cuisine, only a half block away from Times Square. “It’s like theater, this is Broadway,” says Zakarian. “Three shows a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s no different what we do and what those actors do. Curtains go up at six!” Zakarian isn’t speaking tonguein-cheek. The Lambs Club promotes emerging Jazz musicians and singers, putting on performances weekly upstairs in the Mezzanine Bar that overlooks the hotel lobby below. And of course, the stellar fare, which is the collaborative

Rigatoni Bolognese al Ragu YIELD: FOR 10 200g carrots, peeled and chopped 90g celery branch, washed and chopped 200g white onion, peeled and chopped 50g olive oil 75g tomato paste 185g pancetta, finely minced 400g ground veal 400g ground pork 250g white wine 450g veal stock 150g milk, whole 600g fresh rigatoni pasta 60g olive oil 100g chicken livers, finely chopped 50g parmigano reggiano, grated 30g butter

HUDSONMOD

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

effort of Zakarian and Executive Chef Eric Haugen, features both pre- and post-theater menus, heady cocktails, a premium tea program and a prestigious wine list. The rave reviews have theatergoers, foodies and wine lovers coming out in droves, whether their

favorite show is playing, or not. On that note, HudsonMOD asked the Iron Chef to give us a recipe of one of his favorites, the Rigatoni Bolognese al Ragu, so that our memory of The Lambs Club can be enjoyed long after the curtains close.

1. Place the vegetables in a robo coupe and blend until a fine paste is formed. Remove any vegetables which are large and didn’t process. Combine the vegetables in a small, straight sidedpan and bring to sweat over low heat. 2. Season with salt and black pepper, and cover. Cook the soffrito until the vegetables are mushy and a paste is formed, about 3 hours. Be sure to stir the soffrito occasionally. The liquid shall have absorbed into the vegetables at the end of the time. 3 Render this mixture over medium heat until the meat has caramelized and the fat is rendered completely. Add to the soffrito. 4. Fold the tomato paste into the mixture and cook for 2 minutes. 5. Fold the meat into the mixture and stir until the meat has cooked fully and released its juices. Add the white wine and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the sauce until the meat is glazed and the wine has reduced almost fully. Reseason the sauce.

6. Add the veal stock to the sauce and continue to reduce the sauce until it has glazed the meat, about 90 minutes to 2 hours. The mixture shall be creamy and rich. Add the milk to the mixture and stir in. Cool completely. 7. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 8. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large rondeau and cook the chicken livers for 3 mintues. Add the sauce, followed by the pasta, reggiano and butter. Mix thoroughly and serve hot.

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COVETA GIRL’S NEW BEST FRIENDS

RARE GEMS FROM AROUND THE WORLD BY AMANDA THOROGOOD

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AMAZONITE As its gemological moniker suggests, this blue-green gem, also referred to as Amazon stone, was named after South America’s Amazon River, a portion of which flows through Brazil, where the stone is thought to have originated. While its soft hues resemble jade, amazonite is far more rare and thus more coveted. Despite the gem’s name, Russia’s Ilmen Mountains were thought for many years to be the main source of amazonite, until recent discoveries were made in Colorado, Virginia, Madagascar and Australia. Award-winning designer Judith Ripka, who is proud of the unique, stylish designs produced by her eponymous company, highlights the amazonite in the Vogue Ring, which features a pavé-diamond frame and a basket setting. > $4,950; judithripka.com; 777 Madison Avenue, New York City

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MORGANITE Morganite, a relative of the more common emerald and aquamarine, is often heated to enhance its pink undertones. This gem was first discovered in California at the turn of the 20th century and in Madagascar shortly thereafter. Today, finding high-quality morganite is still a rare feat. As a result, very few retailers have an adequate reserve of the gem to use in jewelry creation. Tiffany & Co. is an exception. This stunning bangle, with an oval morganite set in diamonds and platinum, hails from the popular jeweler’s 2013 Blue Book Collection. > Price available upon request. tiffany.com; The Mall at Short Hills, New Jersey

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

COVET

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PARAIBA The glow radiating from paraiba tourmaline has helped establish the gemstone as one of the most precious and valuable in the world. Discovered in Paraiba, Brazil, in the 1980s, the stone comes in various shades of neon blue and green and is perfect as an accent or the main attraction of any piece of jewelry. Designed and manufactured in the Aires Jewelers studio by a team of designers known for their collective expertise, this exotic piece, which includes a cabochon-cut, 3.93-carat paraiba stone, is as desirable as it is unique. > $8,100; airesjewelers.com; 3 Harrison Avenue, Morris Plains, New Jersey

▲ PINK DIAMOND

The Argyle Diamond Mine, which produces more than 90 percent of the world’s supply and is the only known substantial source of pink diamonds, sits in the East Kimberly region of Western Australia, an area of remarkable natural splendor. Each year, the mine produces approximately 20 million carats of diamonds in a variety of shades and clarities. Designing baubles that capture the magnificence of the pink diamond is a responsibility that few of the world’s most elite companies undertake, Tiffany & Co. being one of the most renowned. This gorgeous trio of pink-diamond rings, with white-diamond and platinum settings, includes (clockwise from top) a rectangular modified brilliant fancy purplishpink diamond with a border of pink diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold; a cushion-cut, fancy deep-pink diamond; and a rectangular brilliant fancy deep-pink diamond. > Prices available upon request. tiffany.com; The Mall at Short Hills, New Jersey

42 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

COVET

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PRASIOLITE Popular because of its striking color, prasiolite mystified gemologists when it first appeared, seemingly out of nowhere. The gem is now known to derive from a small Brazilian mine and is also seen in Lower Silesia, in Poland. Experts often design prasiolite jewelry to include intricate cuts that enhance the splendor and near-translucent quality of the gem. As part of Tacori’s Seafoam Mint collection, this striking ring features nearly 13 carats of pale prasiolite and is accented with 18-karat golden diamond petals. > $1,420. tacori.com

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RUBY The mysticism of the ruby is deeply rooted in history. In some ancient cultures, ingesting ground-up rubies was thought to cure blood diseases and ensure good health. Other cultures referred to rubies as the “king of gems” and considered them a representation of the sun. As the birthstone for July and a symbol of romance and devotion, rubies are used in a number of meaningful and jawdropping statement pieces, including watches, anniversary gifts (traditionally for a couple’s 15th and 40th years), engagement rings and various tokens of love. For people who settle for nothing less than excellence, Jacob & Co. has designed a coveted cocktail ring that showcases a massive 41.49-carat pear-shaped cabochon ruby that is framed by 3.02 carats of pavé-set white diamonds. > Price available upon request. jacobandco.com; 48 East 57th St., New York City

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TANZANITE The popularity of tanzanite, a single-source gemstone, has grown tremendously in recent decades. Jewelry designers and collectors have certainly taken notice of this mesmerizingly blue showstopper that is found in the Manyara region of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. Using tanzanite in rings, necklaces, brooches, earrings and more, some of the jewelry world’s heavy hitters have found distinctive ways to capture the true essence of tanzanite, often pairing it with brilliant diamonds to further elevate its grandeur. Sidney Thomas, a company founded on the traditions of creating and selling exceptional fine jewelry, offers its clientele a number of pieces with a focus on tanzanite, including these pear-shaped earrings featuring 4.25 carats of tanzanite outlined with diamonds. > $5,000; sidneythomas.com; The Mall at Short Hills, New Jersey

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

GORGEOUSSAVVY & SEXY TO GO Prepared for a City Jaunt to Paris, the Extremes of the Arctic and the See-and-Be-Seen World of the Kentucky Derby BY TE R RY WAR D

Paris in Springtime

There’s no place more romantique, bien sûr! — and with these accessories, your look will live up to the Parisian legend. Jaeger-LeCoultre Rendez-Vous Watch, Valentine’s Day Edition Available at Cellini Jewelers (Waldorf Astoria, NYC), $21,600 Nothing tells time in the City of Love like this special-edition version of a Jaeger-LeCoultre’s classic Rendez-Vous watch. With self-winding movement and the brand’s signature night/day indicator, the watch itself is supremely feminine in 18-karat rose gold, with a diamond bezel. But it’s a twist to the red patent leather strap that adds that certain je ne sais quoi: A tiny hidden pocket on the inside of the strap is perfect for stashing secret love notes.

Oro Gold 24K Caviar Micro-Beads Serum Available at West�ield Garden State Plaza in NJ, $500 The City of Light is no place to battle dull skin. Pamper yourself with this serum, infused with flecks of 24-karat gold, that promises to increase your skin’s luminosity while reducing the signs of aging. Obvious bling ingredient aside, it’s the product’s use of caviar extracts, rich with sea minerals, that is the secret weapon against sagging and dehydration.

44 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

Resin Bracelet by Barbara Reisch Available at Stillfried Wien gallery in Tribeca, $164 The perfect pop of color on your wrist says you’re ready for spring in the city that celebrates the season most fashionably. This resin bracelet, by Viennese designer Barbara Reisch, was inspired by the colors of Wandelröschen, a flowering plant in the verbena family.

The Bobby Duffel by Fairchild Baldwin Available at Skif�ington’s Southampton, NY, $995 If it’s good enough for Valentino (the Italian fashion designer recently purchased one on a trip to New York), the coveted Bobby Duffel should certainly do its part to have you traveling to Paris in style. Made in Italy, from woven Italian cotton and accented with a supple leather trim and neat nickel hardware, the bag’s timeless design has a removable shoulder strap and is available in white, navy, orange or mushroom.

GORGEOUS

Arctic

Stay cozy and stylish during trips to catch the northern lights in frosty faraway places like Sweden and Norway. Freeze 24-7 IceSerum Advanced Brightening Facial Serum Available at Bloomingdale’s throughout NY and NJ, $95 The cold of the extreme polar climes is a different animal entirely, compared with frigid temps elsewhere. Feed your own radiance and glow with this innovative facial serum made with white strawberry extract from Japan, while you’re watching the auroras light up the sky. The serum works overtime to brighten overall tone, with beautiful results.

Orian earrings, Lionette by Noa Sade Available at Sucre (357 Bleecker St.), $358 Provocative, fearless and the ultimate in femininity, these sparkling stunners by Israeli jewelry designer Noa Sade will make you feel like you’re wearing a scaled-down aurora borealis on your ears during your Arctic nights out on the town (sport them on urban layovers in Oslo and Stockholm en route to the far north, too). The earrings are 2.25 inches long and are made with Swarovski crystals, simulated opals and plated brass. A show on their own, they pair well with a soft sweater and jeans or provide the requisite bling when worn with a black leather jacket.

Canada Goose Torino Parka Available at Barneys, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue in NY and NJ, $1,850 Safeguarding yourself against the Arctic chill doesn’t require a fashion sacrifice. Canada Goose may be everywhere these days, but the line’s most exclusive jacket for women, the Torino Parka, is in a league all its own. This stunning manteau is part of the Italian Luxury Collection, by Loro Piano. Luxe old-world touches—a shell made from 100 percent virgin wool and accented with leather trim—pair with the brand’s toasty-warm white goose-down filling for both comfort and style.

Leica C Digital Camera, Gold Edition Available at Kurland Photo (460 W. Broadway), $699 The light-gold patina of this impressive digital camera by Leica is easy on the eyes, but what most impresses are the contrasts it grabs in the low Arctic light. With 12.1 megapixels and a 7x optical zoom, the camera lets you get a shot of the action with either a telephoto or true wide-angle lens. And the quick F2 aperture in wide angle, paired with optical image stabilization, gives you the low-light capabilities you need to best capture the Northern Lights (without all the fuss and bulk of a DSLR).

Kentucky Derby

Sleek yet understated, these accessories are the perfect finishing touches for your race-day attire. Bella sunglasses by Moscot Available at the Moscot store (108 Orchard St.), $285

Beckett Bag by Stella McCartney Available at Stella McCartney New York (112 Greene St.), $770

Add vintage glam to your race-day ensemble with these cat-eye sunglasses, made of metal and acetate, designed by iconic NYC eyewear brand Moscot.

Keep things at the races light, fun and animal-friendly with this minimalist faux-leather clutch that has a detachable wrist strap and a gold-tone closure.

Sunny hat by Eugenia Kim Available at Neiman Marcus, $415 Handmade in NYC from lightweight toyo paper straw, the Sunny hat, with its wide sun-shielding brim and black dotted-lace bow as a finishing flourish, is perfect for race day.

46 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

geoffrey zakarian’s next big move EOFFREY ZAKARIAN is currently fantasizing about the perfect meal. He’s seated in a corner booth at the back of his upscale modern bistro, The Lambs Club, a fixture in the constant bustle of the theater district, but his mind is fixed on a place outside of Manhattan, outside of the United States, even. His signature tortoiseshell glasses are off to the side, close to his wine glass on the table in front of us, a table brimming with red wine and delectable hors d’oeuvres. Without the glasses adorning his face, I can better make out this new flash in his eyes; but need no help to perceive the change in tone that has crept into his voice. Nostalgia. He begins describing the dish that made him want to be a restaurateur, a chef. He’s describing when Geoffrey Zakarian decided to become Geoffrey Zakarian—Iron Chef, writer, larger-than-life television personality. >> BY S I M O N M U R R AY P H OTO S BY B R O O K P I F E R S T Y L E D BY: S H A N A N E WS TA DT

48 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

Geoffrey Zakarian is wearing a Burberry Jacket, Omega Timepiece, Tom Ford Turtleneck Sweater and Muffler. FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

e’s in Paris. It’s 1981. He’s wearing the only suit he has to his name. It’s Friday and he’s alone. After subsisting on a ration of cheese and couscous from the room of his hostel, carefully budgeting and frugal in his decisions all the week long, he’s finally saved up enough Francs to enjoy a fleeting luxury: a table at a very chic, very modern 3-Michelin Star restaurant. A window into a different world. The proprietor, whose name he still recalls, is a tall man with long blonde-gray hair and a striking, crisp jacket in his memory. The proprietor’s wife has stark white, bleach blonde hair, draped in Chanel from head to toe: a gorgeous beauty in heels. “And as the buzz got better I thought to myself: this is theater,” says Zakarian, “but it was also business. I loved the sexiness and the style of it all—and they were so fantastic looking. So I said right then and there, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. It was like a stamp. I’ll never forget it, ever.” A lifetime of camera flashbulbs ago, before his children, his marriage, his successful foray into television and the restaurant industry — equally infamous for their high failure rate — Zakarian was traveling the European countryside with a EuroRail pass. He had just graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Massachusetts, but had little to no idea what he would do following graduation. It was at this juncture that an advisor gave the younger Zakarian some well-heeded advice: go to Europe and travel for a month or two. A couple months ended up being a year; and following a grant to write a thesis on le Midi, the South of France, he made it a goal to visit all 18 of the 3-Star restaurants in his Michelin guidebook. During this time he still only had that one suit in his possession. Says Zakarian, “On Saturday I’d dry clean it and have it ready for next Friday and the next restaurant.”

50 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

Upon returning to the States, he applied to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. They politely told him there was a two-year waiting period. Seeking a private conference with the provost, Zakarian went forth and pleaded his case, showing him the fruit of his travels: the detailed journals and extensive notes he had taken of every 3-Michelin Star restaurant he had visited while abroad, many of which the provost had never experienced himself. Two weeks later they called him and said they had an opening; and by 1983, Zakarian had graduated as an apprentice chef. The closet of Tom Ford suits would come later.

LAMBS CLUB FAMILIAR

Geoffrey Zakarian has been in and out of clothes all day, and as he sits among the faded, black and white images of past “Lambs”— the Broadway stars and Hollywood actors that decorate and give the restaurant its name—he looks like a man at peace with his surroundings. He is, after all, in his natural habitat. A life in the

spotlight has made him as comfortable in the kitchen as he is in front of the cameras, or, in this case, when entertaining guests. A waiter brings the table a bottle of Skylark “Stagecoach Vineyard” 2009, a Shiraz from Napa, along with appetizers that include a Chicken Liver Mousse and Wagyu Steak Tartare, among others. “Grab a fork, help yourself, because I am. Don’t be bashful,” he says. The fare lives up to the hype and exceeds it. Geoffrey enjoys it with the same zest I do. While the food is served, we have been talking about fashion, something that Zakarian is very much interested in on multiple levels. Our photo shoot has just finished, and he’s still dressed in the last outfit of the shoot, a black jacket accentuating a black and white checkered shirt, all neatly put together with a black tie. A bold, well-ordered, clean look. “The big problem with fashion is people are slaves to it,” he begins earnestly. “I don’t do fashion. I do classic looks that don’t go out of style. Because you end up becoming a slave to the next season, it’s insane.”

When Zakarian finds something he likes, he tends to stick with it. Simple tastes, simple expressions that are the most impactful, such as his iconic glasses, every one by the same guy, E. B. Meyrowitz, only a couple blocks away from where we sit. The glasses are made in Paris, but the New York boutique has been there for 40 years, he says. In his mind, fashion and food are the same: every so often, both experience a recycling of trends. To stay relevant, even progressive, in his opinion, one must keep things classic, timeless; or else risk becoming lost in the cycles and mid-cycles that change with the times and whims. “That’s why a guy like Balenciaga, Coco Chanel—all these fashion designers—are always so prescient, always around all the time. Because what they do is timeless. Because they very much go back and go forward and they know how to time the changes, they know the stylized changes. They know when to bring back certain things. It’s very smart; they get it.” Looking around at the current space, at the striking colors, the classic red furniture, the oversized 18th Century French fireplace and the bold, black walls, you realize that Zakarian gets it, too. When I ask him about this, how important the design element is to him, he states matterof-factly that 60 to 65 percent of his energy is focused on the environment. Because he knows the food, he’s got that down. “It’s like a vignette, a motif. It’s a story. I set it up: from the lighting to the music. You walk in and you’re transported somewhere else. It’s very important for me to get that across.” For example, he would never do a classy restaurant without monochromatic colors. Because he’s seen the styles change. He’s been alive to witness at least a cycle and a half and he’s trying to exist above it all. According to Zakarian, the French bistros of the 70’s and 80’s that got him into cooking are just now coming back again.

LIFE SANS CHEF?

If you ask him, Zakarian would tell you if he wasn’t doing this—if he wasn’t current owner of The Lambs Club and The National, directing the food and beverage program at The Water Club at Borgata, partnering with Norwegian Cruise Lines to unveil the Ocean Blue and The Raw Bar on their Breakaway and Getaway luxury vessels, publishing his second cookbook from Clarkson Potter—if he wasn’t doing all of this, he would be a golfer, maybe even a pro-golfer. And while he frequents courses in New Jersey and South Hampton whenever possible, you have to take him with a grain of salt. Not because the man can’t drive the ball down the fairway or make a long putt. Not because of any missing skill. You doubt him because he’s got far too much drive, too much vision and penchant for design to simply dig his feet in and hang his hat on just one profession. No, if he were a professional golfer, he would end up designing his own courses. Take his second cookbook, one that he just put the finishing touches to after writing with his wife and business partner, Margaret Zakarian. Due out this September, the book, titled The Perfect Pantry, gives readers the opportunity to explore their kitchen pantry with 150 recipes that make use of just about everything inside of it, from peppercorn to Arm & Hammer baking soda. Instead of shying away from the design element, throwing up his hands after concocting the recipes and retreating back to one of his ever-growing list of responsibilities, Zakarian decided to fly out to San Francisco where the photo shoot was taking place to add direction and his love for design to the pictures. “They’re all shot from topdown; I wanted them all top-down on the same table with no relationship to each other,” says Zakarian of the items. “So there’d be meatballs, a biscuit and granola. It shows the diversity of it. Just food on a plate untouched.” Depending on how the book sells, he has a vision

that encapsulates a series of practical guidebooks that could span pantries around the globe.

ZAKARIAN ON TOP

Zakarian comes from a family of musicians, but surprisingly, he’s been trained as a classical pianist. In the kitchen, it’s easy to sense a fluidity of motion, an artful touch at play, which lends to a creative, culinary flair developed over many years at the hands of legendary Chef Alain Sailhac at Le Cirque. Sailhac was flinty, parsimonious in his teachings. He took to Zakarian immediately for his stolid work ethic, and told him to show up an hour early and he’d teach him what he knew. An hour became two hours, and in the early mornings, chef taught apprentice the ways of a chef’s kitchen. That hardworking ethos, that passion and zest for the culinary arts that Sailhac saw in Zakarian is incredibly present during his competitive appearances on the fast-paced, tournament-style, Thunderdome-esque cage fight that is the Iron Chef series. On December 2011, his years of hard work paid off, as he emerged the winner of The Next Iron Chef: Super Chefs, in the process defeating San Francisco native and Executive Chef Elizabeth Falkner in a tense finale. After 27 years without any kind of TV exposure whatsoever, in one exciting moment, Zakarian had entered an elite pantheon of celebrity chefs.

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THE NEXT MOVES

Around the World Cuisine (NYC)

As we’re talking, Eric Haugen, Executive Chef of The Lambs Club who oversees every meal, politely interrupts our conversation to have Zakarian try a new dessert from the kitchen. He introduces it as a citrus curd with a fennel cake and yogurt ice cream. It sounds delicious. Zakarian gives it a try. —“How long do you temper it?” he asks. —“You think it’s a little cold?” remarks Haugen, “that’s a good point.” The chefs banter for a bit until Haugen quickly gets up to say his goodbyes, deftly ushering the plate back through the plush red kitchen doors and into the kitchen. —“E is the chef here,” explains Zakarian. “He should’ve been in the shoot, not me.” I ask what it’s like for him now, being a celebrity chef— if he feels that the inundation of Hollywood cameras and the big lights in the kitchen space is either helping or hindering the restaurant industry. “I’ve been a chef for 34 years, and I’ve been on Chopped since 2007,” he says. “So I was a successful chef and I’m blessed to do well. But it’s because I worked really hard and I know my trade— TV found me, I wasn’t going after it.” However, now that he is a recognizable face—with a name to boot—he has certain responsibilities: He’s taking on the role of culinary director for The Plaza Hotel in New York, he’s got meetings in Tampa, FL, for a new project he’s developing, in March he’s flying out to the Philippines to cook a dinner for up to 700 people and starting this February, his new show, The Kitchen, is filming in Montclair, NJ. Traveling and seeing the world inspires him, but it doesn’t even begin to describe his life now, which still maintains an upward trajectory. As we wrap up our conversation and the servers clear the remnants of our “tastes” from the table, he looks up and motions for someone to join us. It’s his wife, Margaret, the Marketing Executive and President of Domaine Enterprises, which oversees the married couples’ vast array of businesses.

“I could take you out of this country by going to seven neighborhoods in New York City on a subway, and you’d be shocked. That’s a good thing.” — Geoffrey Zakarian

hile we were chatting with the jazz of Louie Armstrong in the background, sipping glasses of Shiraz and eating iconic hors d’oeuvres from his innovative Lambs Club, Geoffrey Zakarian, the inveterate Iron Chef, made the boast above. Of course, with credentials like his, we had to put him to the challenge. He hardly hesitated with his around-the-world rundown of some of his NYC favorites, (in addition to his restaurants, of course). Here’s a personal tour through the eyes and expert palate of an Iron Chef. FRENCH

CHINESE

LE MANGEOIRE

MISSION CHINESE

“It’s an amazing, Provencal-style restaurant.” DISH: “The Roast Chicken for two. Outstanding.”

“Does a little bit of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese. Very interesting.”

154 Orchard St

1008 2nd Ave (53rd & 54th)

MASA

10 Columbus Circle

“Let’s go to modern-day Japan. I’d take you to Masa or Bar Masa next door.” DISH: “Seven-course meal cooked by Masa himself.”

AMERICAN

EMPIRE DINER

210 Tenth Ave (at 22nd)

“Knowing Italy now, I would have to stop at a pizzeria, and so I’d go to Don Antonio for the great pizza.”

“It’s a spectacular representation of what has happened to food in the United States, that we can open a diner now and serve great local food that’s really interesting and sexy, vibrant and very much in demand.” DISH: “The Meatloaf is out of this world good.”

SCARPETTA

MISCELLANEOUS FAVORITES:

ITALIAN

DON ANTONIO

355 West 14th St

While we go our separate ways, I can’t help but get a sense that Zakarian is living a vision he saw many moons ago, sitting alone in a Michelin-starred restaurant in Paris. The various cycles have come and gone, will come and go again, but his earliest vision of a sexy, stylish couple managing a business together has been attained.

85 10th Ave (15th St and 11th Ave)

“They do a great job with Asian American cuisine. They’ve got everything.”

JAPANESE

309 West 50th St

—“Babe? Come over here! My wife,” we stand. “This is my lovely, beautifully pregnant wife.” —“Nice jacket, you look handsome,” she says after introducing herself. —“Don’t tell her I bought all the clothes,” he says jokingly.

TORO

“I would also go to Scarpetta, because it’s so good. It’s different but so good. It so represents the modern day Italian cuisine.” DISH: “Definitely the Tuna Crudo or the Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe.”

BRUNCH

BAR

BALTHAZAR DANIEL 80 Spring St

60 East 65th St

SEAFOOD

COCKTAIL BAR

MAREA

ZZss CLAM BAR ZZ

240 Central Park S

169 Thompson St

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HUGH OWENS, Director of International Design

The trend in luxury kitchen design is for a bespoke, customized finish, as seen here in One57. [The design has] been tailored to suit the lives of the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inhabitants. Islands with stone surfaces, waterfall ends and feature concealed built-in seating for family and guests to sit and enjoy the theater of cooking.

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Trends In Luxury Kitchen Design More than ever, the kitchen is the heart of the home. And living the good life there means sparing no expense in making the most of an increasingly open space. BY TERRY WARD

Think, for a moment, about the last cocktail or dinner party you attended at the home of a colleague or a friend. From the sip of that first aperitif to your goodbyes at the evening’s end, chances are the bulk of your socializing took place in or around the kitchen.

Park Avenue Apartment CAMPION PLATT; www.campionplatt.com

“The kitchen is becoming more of a decorated room than a utility room, as it was historically,” says Campion Platt, mentioning glass cabinets as one way to achieve the decorated look. “Picture a more high-tech decorated kitchen that’s meant to look less like one, but still be operational and functional.” His firm utilized a butler’s pantry in this Park Avenue apartment to expand and redefine the kitchen and eating spaces, which feature Thermador double ovens, a Wolf range and Sub-Zero refrigeration and wine coolers. “We think of clever ways to absorb the contingent architecture in and around a kitchen to make it as big as possible,” Platt says.

Firmly established as the social nerve center and beating heart of any home, the American high-end kitchen is continuously becoming a more customized and indulgent space, a place that, at times, feels like a work of art. “The kitchen has become much more of a forward-facing room in the home, with people spending more and more time there,” says Campion Platt, an architect and interior designer with offices in New York and in Palm Beach, Florida. “Everyone wants a big kitchen, and they want to live in it as well. It’s gotten to the point where it’s impossible to get [guests] to move into the living room, where everyone really spends their money.” And when it comes to true luxury kitchens versus cookie-cutter versions that occupy the tiers below, the differences quickly become apparent in terms of the materials used, the everevolving ingenuity of appliances, and the bespoke details that are often hidden from sight for a supremely streamlined aesthetic. The industrial commercialized look that was popular for many years “has been tamed,” says Andrew Franz of New York City firm Andrew Franz Architect. “Everything is much more streamlined.” And this streamlined look is evident everywhere from ranges—which have evolved from the heavy industrialized look of 15 years ago into something that remains professional but more stylized, or even stylish—to the streamlining of cabinetry, with panels

Summit, New Jersey Home HEIDI PIRON DESIGN & CABINETRY heidipiron.com

The owners of this Summit, New Jersey property had just moved to the suburbs from Manhattan and feared sacrificing style with the move. “The husband didn’t want a cookie-cutter kitchen, he wanted an interesting wood grain,” Piron says, “We looked at twenty different exotic woods—from maples and rosewood to eucalyptus—and settled on applewood from Brazil.” The wood’s higher gloss makes the grain telegraph through, she says, and positioning the grain horizontally instead of vertically in the cabinetry helps guide the eye around the spacious room. Other materials Piron incorporated to compliment the cabinetry were a 2½-inch-thick Wenge butcher-block countertop on the island, streaked with rich espresso tones; and countertops in a gray-blue limestone called Pietra Cardosa that mix nicely with the stainless steel Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances.

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Westhampton Beach, NY URBAN HOMES DESIGN www.uhny.com

The biggest challenge we faced was incorporating contemporary elements into the fairly traditional space. The solution was to use numerous door styles and finishes: a white matte lacquer on a shaker-style door, a gray/brown oak veneer on a shaker-style door, polished and brushed stainless steel shaker-style drawer fronts, and polished chrome and glass wall cabinets. This mix created a transitional aesthetic that includes a combination of clean lines and warm finishes. The kitchen remains open to the dining and great rooms. The design fully integrated some of the appliances such as the refrigerator and dishwasher for a built-in look. It is equipped with a beverage center, a wine cooler and a marble countertop that coordinates with the kitchenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marble backsplash.

COOL DETAILS & FINDS

Handblown Glass Drawer Pulls Manhattan designer Karen Curtis uses ancient Venetian glassblowing techniques to create these bespoke drawer pulls that you can mix with other kitchen hardware for a unique look. karencurtis.com

Smeg FAB28UAZ Refrigerator Vintage 1950s aesthetics get remade with all the bells and whistles of a modern refrigerator with this stylish offering from Italian manufacturer Smeg. The antibacterial interior has a fruit and vegetable container, dairy box and a small freezer compartment. It comes in ten colors. smeg.com

concealing fully integrated and separate refrigerators and freezers (another big high-end trend). The result is an open kitchen that naturally flows into surrounding living spaces. Cabinetry is also becoming more “microplanned” than ever, Franz says, with features such as slide-out cutting boards, customized drawer interiors, and even special shelves for canning, not to mention lots of interior LED lighting. “The industrial and restaurant kitchen has turned into something more sleek, and that’s where the materials come in,” agrees Platt, referring to everything from lacquer and exotic woods to original leaded glass as elements that set luxury kitchens apart from traditional kitchens. A good example of the use of exotic woods can be seen in the spectacular kitchens in Manhattan’s One57 building, the city’s newest hotel and residential skyscraper that’s home to eighty-five ultra-luxury condominiums and the new Park Hyatt Hotel. The residential kitchens in this groundbreaking build-

Glas White suspension lamp by Foscarini The Italian lighting manufacturer collaborated with fashion brand Diesel’s home collection to create these stunning lights that make for a perfect kitchen accent. The industrial details are drawn from vintage workshop fixtures. foscarini.com

ing have hand-crafted cabinets of Macassar ebony from Indonesia, or whitepainted cabinetry with walnut interiors, both designed by the UK company Smallbone of Devizes. Fully integrated refrigerators and freezers from Miele are indiscernible from the sleek cabinetry. Appliances are evolving as quickly as smartphones, it seems—from refrigerators that use touch screens, such as a recent version released by Samsung, to source recipes that work with your groceries to integrated speed ovens that bring commercial-grade cooking capabilities to your kitchen. And designers are coming up with new ways to store the ever-expanding range of smaller appliances in kitchens. “The trend is to have an awful lot of appliances and to have them available at great ease, yet out of sight,” says Franz, who has incorporated “appliance garages” into several kitchens—areas where plugged-in appliances, like espresso makers, juicers and blenders, are ready for use but tucked away behind a roll-down door.

Chelsea Miller Knives The high-end knives in Chelsea Miller’s Chef Knife line, forged in her Brooklyn and Vermont studios from repurposed highcarbon-steel horseshoe rasps, with maple and applewood handles, make for the ultimate food-prep conversation piece. chelseamillerknives.com

Lighting remains a critical element, and the trend toward LED lighting, both under cabinets and inside them, is firmly in place. “LED has really evolved from five or six years ago,” says Heidi Piron, a luxury-kitchen designer in Summit, New Jersey. “It used to be more of a blue light, but now LEDs give off a cool light or a warm light.” And while granite has always been the grandfather of countertops, today’s luxury kitchens showcase a range of other materials, such as marble, stainless steel, quartzite and even pewter, Piron says. For all the options for customization, functionality and performance remain paramount across the board. “Time is still of the essence” in today’s kitchens, Franz says. “We are letting everything be at your fingertips, yet not on display.” “Everyone still wants the window by the sink, but things are getting more special than just utilitarian,” he adds, “People are really using their kitchens for all they’re worth.”

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ANCIENT EMPIRES & THE SUITE LIFE BY PHYLLIS HARBINGER

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“ Here’s your phone,”

As we reboarded, there were chilled towels and champagne at the ready and special treats left waiting to be opened in our suites. The crew couldn’t do enough for us. The sublime attention to detail always threatens to keep us on the ship for the entire cruise. Each of the 215 guest suites is so well appointed that there’s almost no reason to leave the expansive confines of one’s room. Even small details, such as opening the fridge and discovering that it’s stocked with our favorites, lend a warm touch of the familiar. And, although we’re on a cruise, it’s more akin to chartering a private yacht with our sophisticated, well-traveled friends from the far reaches of the globe. At each port of call, we define our day. Private guides, unique tours and Seabourn excursions provide exclusive access—as much or as little as we want to experience. The day before our shopping safari in the haute streets of Roma, we had been captivated by an extraordinary stretch of the Italian Riviera, the dreamy Cinque Terre, where colorful fishing villages have been perched among the cliffs for centuries. It is a place that hardly looks real; it’s more like a perfectly defined Hollywood set, created to make Italian life seem quaint, beautiful, comfortable and unchanging. From our dock at Livorno, we could have gone to Pisa, Florence or other iconic Tuscany locales. We decided to explore something different; something we’d longed to do since catching the travel bug. We loved being able to follow our whims at every port. The next closest path to a traveler’s wish fulfillment would be to find a genie in a bottle.

says the guide, as he hands over a cellphone in front of Saint Peter’s Basilica,

amid the bustling wonder of humanity, culture and history that endlessly churns around the center of Rome. It’s day three of our 2013 Holy Lands and Ancient Empires Mediterranean cruise aboard the exquisite and wonderfully intimate Seabourn Quest, and my husband and I are anxious to experience another port of call. Every year, we spin the globe and, while it’s rotating, plant a finger then find the Seabourn ship that goes to that part of the world to take us on another romantic adventure. Although we’re oceans away from home, we receive a pampered treatment beyond expectation aboard Seabourn, with effortless elegance, quiet sophistication, attention to detail and a level of service that allows us to fully immerse ourselves into every experience. On that day in front of Saint Peter’s, we were mere steps away from the flourishes of Bernini, the genius of Michelangelo and the spiritual heart of Italy, all of which we had explored on previous trips with Seabourn. So we decided on a different kind of cultural pilgrimage this time, one that would allow us to discover the scions of haute couture— Fendi, Bulgari, Armani, Cavallo, Valentino. Our guide, engaged by Seabourn, had given us marked maps and restaurant recommendations before sending us into the dizzying world of boutique shopping in Rome. “We’ll meet here to go back to the ship,” he knowingly grinned. “However, the phone is in case you don’t make it here in time. Rome has its share of distractions.” Shopping bags in hand, we made it back to the meeting place among the cobblestone streets and the vendors hawking their wares, our guide waving us down and greeting us by our first names. The entire crew knew our names from day one, and this personal relationship extended from the captain to the waiters to even deck stewards we had hardly ever seen.

Cuisine Dreams While underway between ports, I like to surround myself with a cloud of pillows, bolsters and Turkish towels on the apathyinducing chaise lounges poolside. It’s warm most afternoons during this itinerary. Before I have a chance to ask, one of the staff, impeccably attired, appears. “Good afternoon, Ms. Harbinger. The weather is

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lovely but a bit hot. Would you like a cold towel or a cooling spritz? Or perhaps might I clean your sunglasses?” As he is asking, another of the staff has noticed that the ice in my drink has melted, and so refreshes it. When my glass is empty, another drink appears. Most evenings, a gentle breeze replaces the heat of the day, and the night sky overtakes bright blues of the cloudless days with deeper, quieter cerulean shades that bring their starlit mysteries and the promise of unforgettable cuisine amidst the laughter of new friends. Meals on a Seabourn cruise are as much a sophisticated and celebratory punctuation to the day as a sybaritic gourmet extravagance. The chefs are all members of the Chaine des Rotisseurs, a gastronomic society whose apparent objective is to make me forget every meal I’ve ever had prior, including previous meals aboard the Quest. The complimentary wines help elevate my epicurean experience to a place I like to call a wonderful state of immoderation. Like many, I travel by my stomach as much as by my other senses, and I firmly believe that those who share their food with you share their heart. Maybe this is why great chefs are so well loved and why the food aboard becomes as much of a memory as the great monuments and landscapes we experience do.

At Sea I love the sea days to luxuriate and rest: equal parts unhurried workout, yoga, relaxation, books, long baths and, for lack of a better word, yummy spa treatments. It is also an opportunity to enjoy everything the ship has to offer, from great movies and lectures to live music

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and entertainment. Mostly, though, you’ll find me settled into my Turkish-towel womb. On sea days, unhurried music wafts through the air from unseen speakers, as if the ship is not only slicing through the crisp blue Mediterranean Sea but also composing music as it moves through the salty air. I frequently look up from my book to watch stylish people defy the heat and look perfectly coiffed as they stroll by en route to lunch. When I break away from my book to take a dip in the pool, an attendant awaits to hand me a warm towel.

The Magic of the Night During evenings aboard, the air seems to tingle as everyone readies for the Seabourn Deck Party. Festive

paper lanterns dangle over the pool. Guests gather. Conversations swell over the deck and get carried out into the expansive starry night. Lights twinkle as a live band plays. Champagne and other creative cocktails effortlessly find their way into awaiting hands. The ambiance harkens back to earlier, elegant eras, and we soak it all in as my love and I dance the night away under the black nightscape awash with the glittery, sparkling light of ancient horoscopes. As we dance, a spell is cast at some point during this night at sea. All of a sudden, the band seems to grow quiet, the chatter lowers a few decibels and then grows mute, the clink of glasses takes on a musical quality—and for an unforgettable

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and magical moment, time stands still, and despite everything in motion around us, it is just the two of us dancing. The next morning, still warmed by the subtle spell of the night before, we arrive at the next port to experience another unforgettable adventure together. What more could I want?

A Lifetime of Luxury The vast and varied itineraries encompass the greatest destinations around the globe, from the ice-bound and primal world of Antarctica to the exotic realms of Asia. There is something for everyone both on and off the ship. The luxurious cabins offer walk-in closets, and sumptuous bathrooms filled with wonderful

amenities. A spa menu of soaps and bath products are offered on a silver tray by your steward upon your arrival; champagne is poured, and hors d’oevres are presented in your suite with a wonderful regularity On board, I’ve been swept away by exceptional classical guitarists, a sexy violin duo, and, of course, the Seabourn Band that is present each night to entertain all in attendance. Seabourn is also a unique cruising experience, in that all meals and drinks are included in the fare, and tips are neither required nor expected. Nevertheless, the staff and service remain prompt, even premeditative. Take note: Wine is poured endlessly, and cocktails are refreshed without asking, so heed your glass or stumble back to your suite.

Sophisticated Company

should mention that for all intents and purposes this is a “couples” cruise. We have seen a few single travelers, but they are an exception to the rule. While kids are not unwelcome, there are no activities for them, and over the years, we have only seen a few babies. The ship caters to

those 45 and over, with the median lying somewhere around 60. My husband and I both turned 50 last year, and we are one of the younger couples on board. We also enjoy the company of people from all over the world. We have been traveling with this luxury line since 2009, and while we strayed for one summer to test the waters with a competitor, we were quick to hop right back on our beloved Seabourn the following year. The high level of service and the attention to detail without the pomp and circumstance, the lovely familiarity of the crew, and the unhurried grace and effortless refinement of the ships have begun to feel like a second home. And there’s something enchanting that happens once I board a Seabourn ship—something that rises up from the sea and through the deck and races through me, making me feel as if the world exists, in moments and memories, just between my husband and me.

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OUR ROUTE: HIGHLIGHTS

MONTE CARLO:

The Principality of Monaco Monaco and the indulgent culture of Monte Carlo set the tone for the Seabourn adventure. Our first sight of the ship in this famed port—renowned for the glamorous excess and legendary nightlife along its sparkling Riviera and for the 700-year reign of the fascinating Grimaldi dynasty— elevated the experience of boarding to an unforgettable and dazzling event. The view of Monte Carlo from our suite aboard the Seabourn Quest enhanced the exquisite attention to detail, the crispness of the sheets and the champagne we drank on our balcony as we pulled out of port toward Livorno, Italy.

LIVORNO, ITALY Gateway to Tuscany

Most people get off in Livorno and head to nearby Pisa or Florence, but we hired a private guide and opted to see the five colorful and captivating seaside villages comprised by the rugged and remarkably picturesque Cinque Terre region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Postcard views abound, and together with locally made pesto, fresh seafood and local white wines, you’ll leave feeling wonderfully expansive and yearn to explore more.

ASHDOD, ISRAEL The Gateway to Jerusalem

EGYPT

Privileged Access Seabourn organized a day of ancient culture that began with special access to the pyramids and the Great Sphinx, followed by a private Nile River excursion. The day is both unforgettable and long, but the crew was waiting upon our return with cold towels, champagne and canapés to bring us back to our energetic spirits.

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Embarking from the historical port of Ashdod, we ventured 45 minutes to Jerusalem. Perhaps the most sacred and embattled city on the planet, Jerusalem offers followers of one-third of the world’s religions the opportunity to visit places that make sacred texts come to life. From the ancient winding passageways of the Old City Market to the Western Wall, the Via Dolorosa, the Dome of the Rock and the shrines of multiple religions, Jerusalem is a place that is at once full of contradictions and competing cultures and a cultural heritage that is completely and utterly unforgettable.

HAIFA Israel

Under the shadow of Mount Carmel, Haifa has two temptations: diamonds, and proximity to almost every known holy, biblical or historical site of note in the region, from the UNESCO Crusader city of Acre to the region on the Sea of Galilee—depending upon what you’re looking to experience.

ROME, ITALY

A Day of Fashion, Style, and History One can’t come within a few miles of Roma and not get swept into the hypnotic world of Italian high fashion. Fendi, Bulgari, Armani, Valentino, Cavallo and Gucci can be found along the haute Via Condotti. But for the fashion savvy, swanky, stylish boutiques beckon from every corner of the city. So, surrounded by the deep roots of history, the trattoria culture, the museums and the antiquities that define the story of this remarkable city, we decided to make it a boutique day. The selection of shopping diversions is dizzying. Some must-stops are the Saddlers Union (saddlersunion.com), for timelessly elegant handbags; the art-clad fashion of Spazio IF (spazioIF.it); and the even artsier Delfina Delettrez, a fourth-generation member of the Fendi clan (delfinadelettrez.com).

MESSINA AND SICILY Italy

NAPLES AND CAPRI Italy

With so many choices at our next anchorage, Naples, we skipped the Amalfi Coast drive from Sorrento to Positano; the ruins of Pompei and its history; and the hustle and bustle of Naples and instead headed across the water by hydrofoil to the wonderful Isola Capri. On Capri, we explored the Villa Jovis, an ancient Roman villa; the Piazzetta of Capri Village; and the dazzling Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto). We then sipped the ubiquitous Limoncello di Capri as we indulged in the views.

Although the island is part of Italy, Sicily’s unique culture feels like another country; Messina is the port city closest to the tip of the Italian “boot.” Founded in the 8th century BC, Messina’s history endures in the collective cultures that have pressed their influence, invited or otherwise, onto this island. Messina and the nearby Taormina (also a side excursion from the Quest) are crowded with ancient monuments and architecture and a social landscape that is woven into notable literature, cuisine, folklore, music, arts and cinema. Best to hire a private guide and let the entirety of its history unfold before you.

RHODES, GREECE

First of the Seven Ancient Wonders A mishmash of cobbled streets, exquisite blue water, ancient wonders and the clash of cultures left by the Crusaders, Turks, Greeks, Italians and privileged international yachting crowd, Rhodes is at once beguiling and enthralling. It’s also the site of the famous Colossus of Rhodes, which once stood at the entrance to the port. Now, two proudly antlered bronze deer stand at the harborside and welcome us into the medieval warren of nameless lanes that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Medieval City of Rhodes. Don’t miss Lindos and the Acropolis.

KUÐADASI, TURKEY

Mythic Temples and Ancient Shrines One of the greatest cities of the ancient era, Ephesus is the big draw here. The Temple of Artemis, the Church of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica, the Celsus Library and the Agora highlight a long list of sites that will rattle old memories of your 10th-grade world history class. But, unlike the staid schoolbook version, this journey will have you boarding the Quest in a state of awe at the end of the day. A highlight: Seabourn organized a special concert amid the ruins for its guests.

PATMOS, GREECE The Book of Revelation and Journey’s End

Both the Grotto of Saint John the Divine and the Book of Revelation found their inspiration on the quiet island of Patmos. Mostly a place for modern pilgrims, the island is known for its monasteries, empty beaches and religious enlightenment. It’s fitting that it’s the last stop of our indulgent week of exceptional experiences and kingly indulgence.

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SNEAK ! W E I V E R P

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012 2014 68 HUDSONMOD WINTER

: D L O G THE NEW

THE GLOBAL

PURSUIT OF ART

HudsonMOD reveals the world’s hot spots that allow you to combine your passion for travel and art. BY TY SAWYER

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

On a day when U.S. stocks lost more than $240 billion in value, Christie’s held its largest-ever postwar and contemporary sale, setting records for eight artists.”

– Bloomberg News, 15 November 2012

hile we love art in all its forms—paintings, sculptures, photographs—with its ability to elicit an emotional response, it’s the business of art, the money made, invested, and

returned, that is becoming the engine of the art market.

Today, it is estimated that more than 44 percent of buyers The art market defied the economic gloom to return 11 percent to investors in 2011.”

– Financial Times, 8 January, 2012

are making art purchases for portfolio diversification. Art fairs, both the renowned and the rising stars, are rapidly becoming travel musts for savvy collectors, investors and buyers. Art fairs are the world’s cultural crossroads, hot spots where travelers can combine their love of exploring with a passion for fine art. Finance and art are becoming handmaidens in the privatewealth-management community, and some of the most broadranging investment plans now include art in their portfolios. Assets, such as fine and collectable art, have proved to be one of the most fiscally sturdy investments, making money at a steady pace. When combined with the equally avid desire to travel, the pursuit of art evolves into the most interesting and desirable lifestyle quest.

70 HUDSONMOD FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014

Christie’s New York auction house alone sold $1.2 billion in postwar and contemporary art in just two major 2013 auctions ($495 million in May, $691 million in November 2013), with Francis Bacon’s Three Studies of Lucian Freud reaping a staggering $142.4 million, which broke the record for the most expensive piece of contemporary art ever sold. The top 10 pieces of art sold in the world in 2013 were from the postwar and contemporary category, with the exception of a Norman Rockwell painting and an Alberto Giacometti bronze sculpture. With the global art auction market in the billions, many lenders and investment strategists sought to engage art experts in order to accurately determine both loan and portfolio valuations of fine and collectable art. Contemporary and modern art fueled more than 77 percent of art sales and investments in 2012. Art is also increasingly being used as collateral for other investment scenarios. This is why Switzerland’s Art Basel, London’s Frieze Art Fair, Dubai’s Art Dubai, Shanghai’s BolognaFiere SH Contemporary and New York’s Armory Show are making their mark in what is a nascent and growing market. The market is so new, in fact, that Deloitte spearheaded the first major study of art’s effect on asset and wealth management in 2012. These art fairs focus on both the notable and the future superstars of the contemporary and modern art community. Given the rising demand for modern and contemporary masters, these events provide a flash point for travelers interested in art by showcasing works from around the world. Interestingly, most experts consider 2013 to have been a year when both investors and collectors were holding

back. While the numbers are pretty impressive, it’s difficult to approach the purchase of an item of significant and unique aesthetic value as a purely speculative investment. And as you might expect, the lines are sharply divided on the subject. But whether you buy art as an avid collector and are lucky enough to reap the rewards of a passion that becomes lucrative, or you actively seek out investments based on bestguess auction valuations, or you partner with art experts who deal in physical objects whose value is quantified and driven as much by nostalgia, emotion, marketing and story as by any real monetization factor, the fact is that art is becoming an asset. Your view of that asset— how and why you acquire it—is as individual as the piece itself. And really, if you make money on a highvalue piece of art, what does it matter how you approached the original acquisition of that piece of art? It likely came down to an individual

choice, no matter how you financially justified the purchase. On the other end of the scale, if you decide to sell, making the connection between an object d’art and a person with both the money and the passion for the piece is the tricky part of managing this segment of one’s investment portfolio. So it’s really best to first fall in love with the art and connect to it in some way that enriches your life, just in case the artwork sits on a shelf or hangs over your couch longer than you anticipated. For collectors (and investors), one thing that makes the treasure hunt thrilling is the chance to explore the world through the deeply visceral bonds that artists have with their environment. There’s nothing quite like investing money in something you love that may reap great financial and soul-stirring rewards and being able to tell a good story at the same time. As humans, we love connecting to other humans, and artists express their emotions—conflicting, raw, primal, delicate, intimate, raging, fervent, obsessive, graceful— through their medium. Looking at a Norman Rockwell painting does something much different to your soul than looking at a Jackson Pollack, just as the lines of a classic Jaguar E-Type elicit a different response than the spaceage contours of a Ferrari F12. That means getting out and getting in front of a piece, seeing how you feel when you view it live and imagining what it would be like to see it on a wall in your home every single day. And, all business aside, what better way to explore the pulse of any destination than through the sensual expression and keen eye of an artist?

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

JOURNEY INTO ART

ART BASEL SWITZERLAND JUNE 19-22, 2014

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Even if you don’t attend its worldfamous art show, it’s genuinely difficult to escape the tug of art in Basel, Switzerland: There are 40 museums for a population of about 160,000. The city itself seems to have arisen from a painter’s romantic vision of a small town along the Rhine River. A stroll along the river’s banks allows you to soak up views of historic landmarks and medieval architecture and to work off your indulgence of the famous Basel honey cakes. Sculpture gardens and contemporary architecture seem to sprout around every corner. The city’s delightful tidiness and energetic calmness pervade Art Basel, which has the reputation of being the most influential and noteworthy international art fair in the world. Each June, 300 carefully selected and curated galleries from the world of contemporary and modern art showcase their most significant works. Art, artists and art lovers mingle in what has been called “the annual family meeting of the art world.”

STAY Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, which sits right on the Rhine and includes the Michelin 2-star Cheval Blanc and the famed Italian restaurant Chez Donati. lestroisrois.com EAT Schloss Bottmingen, a renovated 14th-century castle, complete with moat. SHOP Bucherer, a luxury jewelry and watch shop, relevant in a town known for the highest quality art and Swiss timepiece craftsmanship. EXPERIENCE The Wine Walk, from Wintersingen to Maisprach, with plenty of tasting and refreshment stops along the way.

FRIEZE ART FAIR LONDON OCTOBER 16-19, 2014 In melding the idea that art can both evoke emotion and resonate financially, the Financial Times of London has called the Frieze Art Fair “essential viewing for everyone interested in cutting-edge contemporary art.” More than 150 of the world’s top galleries gather for the fair in The Regent’s Park, in the heart of London, under a specially built structure designed by renowned architects Kevin Carmody and Andrew Groarke. Frieze London coincides with the Frieze Masters, which exhibits art from Old Masters to modern (pre-1999), making London in October the place for every art aficionado. It’s also hard to beat the vibrant city of London as a destination. There’s simply too much of the hottest trends in fashion, cuisine, architecture, history and culture to convey in the space of a few short words, but there is literally something for everyone who isn’t looking for a palmstudded beach.

STAY The Savoy, for a quintessential London experience. The hotel overlooks the River Thames and exudes all things British. To be closer to the action at the Frieze, choose the iconic Dorchester, which presides over Hyde Park, in the heart of Mayfair. EAT House of Ho, recently opened in January. This restaurant, helmed by chef Bobby Chinn, was highly anticipated. The food is Vietnamese but has a decidedly international flair. Reserve early, and then head to Old Compton Street. SHOP Heal’s, for high-quality furniture and sleek kitchenware. EXPERIENCE Afternoon Bollinger Tea at the Goring. This is the experience by which all afternoon tea services are measured.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 HUDSONMOD

THE ARMORY SHOW NEW YORK CITY MARCH 6-9, 2014

For those who don’t make it to Art Basel in Switzerland, a slow perusal through the works of more than 200 galleries from the world of contemporary art will soon make you forget about the European stalwart and celebrate the power of our key stop on the global art-fair calendar. This year, Pier 94 will host a specially curated exhibition of contemporary art from what is quickly becoming an important source for visionaries around the world: China. The eyes of contemporary art aficionados see the world differently. In 2014, Chinese artists will be the center of the universe, even to the sophisticated eyes of New Yorkers. China is not only a rising buyer of important investment and collectable art but also a place where mature, investmentworthy artists are skyrocketing onto the scene. But don’t worry, the rest of the world’s most important contemporary and modern artists can be seen in museum-quality presentations in halls designed by the renowned Brooklynbased architectural firm Bade Stageberg Cox. Be sure to visit Pier 94 for the Armory Presents, which will feature impressive single-artist presentations. While headline-grabbing auction sales cause people to take sharp notice of the financial power of the art world, shrewd collectors looking to connect to the next big names will head to the Big Apple to fulfill their passion for collecting and investing.

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STAY Indulge in the Ty Warner Penthouse, a nine-room suite at the Four Seasons Hotel New York, and enjoy panoramic views of Manhattan, white-glove butler service, and use of a Rolls Royce to ferry you to and from the Armory Show. EAT Masa. The menu at this Michelin 3-star restaurant in the Time Warner Center, just off Columbus Circle, offers only what chef Masa Takayama wants you to eat. Prix fixe, $450 per person, sans drinks— the ultimate Japanese dining experience. SHOP The clothes you wear should be as important as the art you hang on your walls. New York is home to the world’s top fashion experts, so tap into that expertise and redo your haute-couture closet with the help of a personal fashion stylist. Our choice: Engiestyle.com EXPERIENCE The Metropolitan Opera. To some, it might sound like noise on the radio, but experiencing opera in person will make for an unforgettable night and an iconic New York experience.

ART DUBAI DUBAI MARCH 19–22 At the crossroads between Europe and Asia, Art Dubai draws about 75 galleries from around the globe, all looking to tap into the spendy, money filled pockets of the region. Emiratis gravitate toward brand names, so a journey into what has been hailed as the most globalized art fair will also give you the opportunity to take in the local pastime: shopping. And not just any shopping; there is the Gold Souk, and malls filled with Prada, Tiffany and Gucci. There’s even a Shopping Festival. The resorts are over-the-top luxurious, and most of the world’s top chefs (such as Alain Ducasse, Nobu Matasuhisa and Gordon Ramsay) have set up shop here, too. Note that you will only be able to drink alcohol in the resorts, but the bars and nightlife of Dubai are notably legendary, so you’ll quickly find your niche.

BOLOGNAFIERE SH CONTEMPORARY SHANGHAI SEPTEMBER 9-12, 2014 This art fair has been rebranded for 2014, with partners BolognaFiere adding to the clout of what was already an essential hub for anyone interested in the exploding art scene of China and the surrounding region. Add to that a chance to explore one of the world’s most interesting, futuristic cities, where the ebb and flow of life amid the chaos on the streets and lanes of this beguiling city moves nonstop. For top luxury experiences, those of the gilded class gather in the hotels that define the skyline, all of which have the ability to indulge your most sybaritic impulses. To feel the beating heart of Shanghai, though, head to Dongtai Road to look for almost anything missing from your esoteric collection. If you don’t get enough of the contemporary-art action at the SH, then sneak off to 50 Moganshan Road and peruse the artists’ studios while nibbling on dumplings from the street vendors.

STAY Of course, the pinnacle of hotels in Dubai is the iconic Burj Al Arab, the world’s only 7-star hotel. Enjoy the exquisite butler service and the highest level of hospitality and attention to detail. jumeirah.com EAT To escape the nonstop world of Dubai, make r eservations at Verre, Gordon Ramsay’s entrée into the Dubai cuisine scene, and enjoy the elegant Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with wines specially matched by the restaurant’s award-winning sommeliers. SHOP You can’t miss the high-fashion extravaganza that is the BurJuman shopping mall, a hub of luxury and top brands, such as Cartier and Bulgari and more. Second choice would be the Gold Soukq, which has been instrumental in giving Dubai the nickname of the City of Gold. EXPERIENCE There’s not a lot of authenticity in cosmopolitan glitz of Dubai, so you’ll have to head out to the surrounding desert on a personalized safari organized by your hotel concierge to get a sense of the Bedouin culture and the incredible wonders of the desert landscapes. Take an evening safari to see the sunset and the transformation that occurs from twilight to night, when stars carpet the sky.

STAY A name brand wins here: the St. Regis Shanghai, with its butler service and state-of-the-art everything, is a heady, elegant, uncompromising place to rest at the end of a day spent in the folds and warrens of the SH’s top gallery offerings. EAT Xibo. Here, in dishes expertly prepared, you’ll find an amalgam of flavors from across the region. For something memorable, be one of the lucky few to pass through the doors of the Mercato, Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s newest restaurant in Shanghai. SHOP Tianshan Tea City. Here you’ll find every object and satisfy every desire for anything having to do with Chinese tea; green tea tends to rule the stalls and dominate the cups. EXPERIENCE Everywhere you go in Shanghai will be an experience, from the modern high-rises that overlook this vertical city to the wonders of the markets and traditional shopping and food centers. Haute couture rubs shoulders with old women cooking in street stalls. It’s an unforgettable experience on either level; you just have to get out to experience it.

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scene Paris RTW Fashion Week FEBRUARY 25â&#x20AC;&#x201C;MARCH 5

Following fast on the heels of its international cousins, the Winter fashion season is rounded out by Paris. This year, the best is truly saved for last, when fashion powerhouses Christian Dior, Lanvin and Chanel take over the Carrousel du Louvre to showcase the hottest fall and winter styles.

Hollywood Domino HudsonMOD is hosting a pre-Oscar party like no other, at the Sunset Tower Hotel in Los Angeles. The seventh annual Hollywood Domino, famous for attracting A-list celebrities, including Gerard Butler, Olivia Wilde and Josh Brolin. Despite the glamorous sheen on this event, the main focus is philanthropic and for a great cause: Artists for Peace and Justice. FEBRUARY 27

The Luxury Technology Show MARCH 4

McLaren Automotive, Nespresso and Sony Electronics are only a few of the 50 innovative high-end brands that will be showcased at The Luxury Technology Show, presented by RAND Luxury, at The Metropolitan Pavilion.

The Armory Show MARCH 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;9

The international contemporary and modern art scene has been exploding recently, and the Armory Show is the top annual art event in New York City. Aesthetes and the curious will enjoy a selection of the most important artworks of the 20th and 21st centuries, staged across Pier 92 and Pier 94.

Palm Beach International Boat Show MARCH 20–23

A fleet of boats worth more than $1.2 billion descends on Palm Beach for the 29th Annual International Boat Show. Everything from 8-foot inflatables to superyachts measuring over 150 feet will be docked waterside and showcased by the world’s leading marine manufacturers.

Architectural Digest Home Design Show MARCH 20–23

Architectural Digest’s thirteenth annual Home Design Show will be a movable feast for those looking to shop and celebrate luxury design. Over 300 brands will display thousands of products to help inspire your next project. Located on Pier 94, 55th Street at 12th Avenue.

La Nuit des Rêves MARCH 22

Join revelers and the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey for the 24th Annual Night of Dreams Gala, where guests can step behind the scenes and visit the company’s “theatre factory,” in Florham Park. You’ll also be able to enjoy cocktails, gourmet spreads and star-studded shows in the Cabaret Performance and Sandman Piano Bar.

Alexis Bittar at Buttenwieser Hall MARCH 26

Described as one of the greatest jewelry designers of the 21st century, Bittar went from hawking his wares on the streets of New York to selling his eponymous jewelry collections in more than 34 countries. Come listen as he shares his rags-to-riches story.

WINTER 2012 HUDSONMOD

EVENTS CHAMPAGNE & SONG GALA Equinox Fitness Clubs presented the third annual Champagne & Song Gala on December 3, 2013 at Crystal Plaza. Hosted by financier and art patron, David Cote, Nana Meriwether (Miss USA 2012) and NY Yankees broadcaster John Sterling, the gala directly benefited Sage Eldercare, one of the oldest and most respected senior service agencies in the state. Those in attendance were treated to an exclusive, private concert featuring the Golden Globe awardwinning singer Vonda Shepard, as well as an up-close look at the newest Bentley and Rolls-Royce models from Paul Miller Bentley of Parsippany. 1. Summer Jemeza, Engie Hassan, Iman Jemeza 2. David Cote, Nana Meriwether, John Sterling 3. The Manhattan Dolls with Jordan Piper 4. David Cote, Engie Hassan, Vonda Shepard, Nana Meriwether 5. Sasha Hlavinka 6. Matthew Tervooren, Hillary Dobbs, Andrew Tervooren 7. Engie Hassan, John Sterling 8. Jessica Rosenzweig Gruber and Julie Reich 9. Jaycie Ehrlich, Nana Meriwether, Ronni Janoff-Weinstein

save

the date! The 2014 Champagne & Song Gala is on December 2nd.

9 PHOTOGRAPHY: Stephen Smith/Guest of a Guest

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EVENTS EVENING OF ELEGANCE HudsonMOD helped ring in the holiday season with Aires Jewelers at the Morris Plains jewelersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; annual luxury jewelry event from 6-9pm. With a stunning showroom that boasts sought-after brands, including Tacori and Charriol, a jaw-dropping Aires Signature Collection and some of the top names in timepieces, guests have an abundance of eye candy to shop for during the cocktail event. 1. Ed Angelica 2. Lynn Holden, Shari Tomasiello 3. John Stanulonis, Karen Stanulonis, Cindy Amador 4. Chris Arends, Laura Gutjahr, Rosemarie Guffanti 5. Harry Miller 6. Christine Lambariello, Nigel Baptiste, Gabby Giordano 7. Gilbert Rubio, Linda Heller, Ron Arends 8. Ron Arends

8 PHOTOGRAPHY: John Molnar

WINTER 2014 HUDSONMOD

EVENTS ROBERT GRAHAM HOLIDAY EVENT On Thursday, December 12, guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while preparing for the holiday season at the Robert Graham boutique at The Mall at Short Hills. Sponsored by Grey Goose, Dewar’s, The Orange Squirrel and Carlo’s Bakery there was no shortage of delicious food and cocktails to indulge in during the night. 1. Shannon Steitz, Ty Sawyer 2. Jarrett Pizarro, Francesca Iodice 3. Talented team from The Orange Squirrel 4. Robert Stock autographing a collector’s shirt 5. Anthony and Nicholas Papavero, Robert Stock 6. Diem Brown, Shana Newstadt 7. Robert Stock and the HudsonMOD team 8. Naomi Holland, Robert Stock, Erica Schuetz, Justin Brown 9. Justin Brown, Ebony TK

9 PHOTOGRAPHY: Charles Palmisano

80 HUDSONMOD WINTER 2014

EVENTS VAN CLEEF & ARPELS HudsonMOD and Van Cleef & Arpels partnered for a private shopping event on November 21. Held at the jeweler’s boutique in The Mall at Short Hills, guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from Café Matisse, music from harpist Diana Elliott, a gift from Guerlain Spa and special guest Kia Schwaninger, Senior Designer for Van Cleef & Arpels. 1. Diana Elliott 2. Karen Dillon, Sebastian Murray 3. Kia Schwaninger 4. Peter Caro, David Esteves, Kenya White, Laura Landau, Freddie Samuel, Geoffrey Andrade

2 3

PHOTOGRAPHY: Charles Palmisano

WINTER 2014 HUDSONMOD

EVENTS LADIES NIGHT JR Cigars turned the popular Montecristo Lounge into a woman’s paradise during its Ladies’ Night celebration on November 13. Complete with manicures, jewelry cleanings, giveaways and more, the night was held in conjunction with the launch of the Jane cigar. 1. Jane and Yaniv 2. Charles Palmisano

PHOTOGRAPHY: Charles Palmisano

TO THE RESCUE Held Friday, November 15 at Cipriani 42nd Street, animal lovers turned out in droves to support the Humane Society of the United States’ mission at the annual To The Rescue! gala. 1. Georgina Bloomberg, Breanna Schultz, Amanda Hearst 2. Ali Wentworth 3. Colbie Caillat 4. Ricky Bobby 5. Allie Rizzo 6. Megan Bliss, Georgina Bloomberg, Mayor Michael Bloomberg

PHOTOGRAPHY: Billy Farrell Agency

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encore DIEM BROWN: Unscripted BY AMANDA THOROGOOD

t 22, Diem Brown was carving out her place in the entertainment industry. Working for the Associated Press and also as a wellliked personality on MTV’s popular series The Challenge, among others, Diem’s charismatic career was on an upward trajectory. Then without warning, Brown with a reality she wasn’t prepared for: She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Having recently completed a round of treatments for a second bout of ovarian cancer, Brown, now 29, has confidently taken on the role of advocate: She is a voice for patients around the world who feel isolated

in their private battles with health issues. In addition to being vocal in front of the camera or in her popular blog for People, Brown took a page from her personal experiences and created MedGift, a charitable organization that connects patients with loved ones (and sometimes complete strangers) who want to provide assistance but don’t know where to begin.

What is the concept behind MedGift? We celebrate the birth of a child with a baby registry. We celebrate the joining of two lives with a wedding registry. But when someone gets sick, the only celebration is when you’re better. There’s really no celebration when you’re fighting to get better. I realized how isolating that is for the patient, and even for the people who want to help out. A registry takes the pride out of [the equation when] asking for help, and my goal was to make it as commonplace as it is for weddings or as it is for baby showers to ask for help when you’re undergoing medical treatments.

“I was able to use the People blog as a really big, honest forum.”

give me my shot?” “Can you please come over and watch a movie with me?” “Can you watch my dog?” I want people to go on MedGift and feel hope.

Was writing your blog for People during your treatment therapeutic? I was able to use the People blog as a really big, honest forum. I think the reason why it did so well is because I didn’t hold back. It wasn’t always glamorous, but the more you talk about something, the less scary it is.

Another big change was your move from California to Manhattan. How has it been, living in NYC? The energy here is exactly what I need. I needed it in treatment and now—I am a little bit of a hustler—and New York has that hustle mentality, where, if you want it, you can get it.

Have you discovered any foodie gems in NYC? Definitely some of the restaurants, like ABC Kitchen, where you can get really great organic food. Or Café Boulud.

At your favorite restaurants, do you reach for the red or the white? 100 percent red. 100 percent Malbec.

Besides NYC, what are some of your favorite travel destinations? Búzios, Brazil, I think is one of the most gorgeous places in the entire world, hands down. And second to that, I think New Zealand is absolutely beautiful.

And what has the response been? The idea sparked back in 2006, and it’s gone through a lot of different changes, but I think that what’s so great about this is you get to decide how you want to ask for help. It’s not just financial giving; you can create a calendar with requests like, “Can you

Define luxury. Working hard and then treating yourself for that hard work.

In five years, Diem Brown is . . . I will be on a panel like the TV show The Doctors, but giving a voice to

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