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Sunday, September 20, 2009

From Vintage to Vogue, New York's Iconic Delano Steakhouse at Water's Edge Restaurant Re-opens

From Vintage to Vogue, New York's Iconic Delano Steakhouse at Water's Edge Restaurant
Re-opens
September 20, 2009
With a rich history spanning three decades, Water’s Edge Restaurant has held its own as a historic New York landmark since its establishment in 1981. Recently, the iconic eatery has been re-awakened, redesigned and re-conceptualized under the leadership and ownership of the Singh Hospitality Group, introducing a truly unique and transformed Delano Steakhouse at Water’s Edge dining experience.

Contemporary design meets tradition under a warm, inviting atmosphere at Water’s Edge. Featuring awe-inspiring panoramic views of the iconic Manhattan skyline, Water’s Edge is nestled alongside the East River and boasts exceptional personalized service, delectable cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Offering a delectable array of dishes, as well as an expertly selected wine list compiled by Wine Director Jay Jadeja and cocktails in the romantically-lit dining room, at the bar, on the outdoor veranda or within the private event space, each features a spectacular view of the Manhattan Skyline and the Queens Borough Bridge. The bar and dining room possesses a classic aesthetic and warm ambiance, as white-linen covered tables are complemented by chic, modern-designed chairs; the lounge, which holds a baby grand piano, plush banquettes and flickering fireplace, is the ideal spot for a romantic evening. The private event space boasts pristine, white walls, accented by spectacularly detailed woodwork. Glittering crystal chandeliers hang overhead, casting a soft glow within the room, as floor-to-ceiling windows and private balcony offer breathtaking views. Water’s Edge exudes comfort and luxury with a number of on-site amenities, including a bridal room. The private event space is the perfect site for any special occasion – from elaborate weddings to intimate anniversary fêtes, the possibilities are endless.

Original culinary creations, and refreshing twists on traditional fare, reflect the Eclectic American cuisine, crafted by Executive Chef Rory O’Farrell under the guidance of Corporate Chef David Salony and using only the season’s finest ingredients. As a start to your meal enjoy Panko Crusted Oysters (Guacamole and a Red Pepper Reduction) or Kung Pao Calamari (Chillis, Peanuts, Hoisin Glaze). As an entrée, the Baby Artichoke Crusted Salmon (Baby Turnips, Spaghetti Squash, Saffron Broth) and Mushroom-Miso Crusted Rack of Lamb (Braised Bok Choy, Whipped Potatoes) are palette-pleasing dishes. For those seeking a true classic New York meal, the selection of Prime Steaks (Filet Mignon, NY Strip, Short Bone Prime Rob) served with your choice of Au Poivre, Bearnaise or a classic Cabernet Demi Glaze is an ideal choice. Remember to save room for dessert, as the Dessert Sampler (Caramelized Pineapple, Piña Colada Shake and Coconut Ice Cream) and Blueberry Tart (with Cinnamon Ice Cream) are sure to indulge any sweet tooth. Having drinks at the bar? Indulge in the Water’s Edge Sunset Cocktail (Grey Goose, Grand Marnier, Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Sour Mix & Grenadine), or have a glass or two of an exquisite wine selected from the extensive wine list.

The Delano Steakhouse at Water’s Edge dining experience begins with a cruise across the East River — departing from Manhattan’s East 23rd Street Pier/Skyport Marina. Guests are invited to step aboard the Water’s Edge Ferry for a thirty-minute sail across the East River, sure to be a unique and memorable experience. Additionally, a selection of party boats is also available for private cocktail hours, after-hours parties and other private events. Complementing the experience, each month the restaurant will also be host a special wine dinner, which features a hand-picked selection of wines, paired with a carefully-crafted five-course meal.

Water’s Edge Restaurant
The East River at 44th Drive
Long Island City, NY 11101
Tel: (718) 482-0033
www.WatersEdgeNYC.com

Thursday, September 10, 2009

1407 Broadway Celebrates American Fashion with a New Look

1407 Broadway Celebrates American Fashion with a New Look

Positioned in the heart of New York City’s Garment District, 1407 Broadway is an iconic office building within the fashion industry. A fashion fixture for nearly 60 years, 1407 Broadway has been a creative hub for designers to develop the styles we wear each day. Built in 1950, the renowned architect Ely Kahn of Buchman & Kahn, later known as, Kahn & Jacobs, designed the building to meet the needs of the post WWII burgeoning garment industry and now under the present ownership of The Lightstone Group, the building is undergoing a comprehensive renovation. 1407 Broadway, which is over 1.1 million square feet and has almost 300 tenants, remains the home of apparel showrooms and designers such as well known labels like, My Michelle, XOXO, Sag Harbor, Jou Jou and Mudd Jeans.

Celebrating American Fashion and a history in fashion real estate, 1407 Broadway is fêting a new look and undergoing a complete makeover redevelopment with a focus on new mechanical and electrical systems to meet the growing needs of the industry and redesign of the lobby to reflect the spirit and excitement that fashion evokes on life. The renovated lobby will recall the art deco period with new metallic gold and silver ceiling applications, new down lighting, and Alabaster chandeliers. New lobby doors and a thorough marble polishing to restore the brilliant luster of the rich lobby marbles are also included. The glamorous redesign is sure to reflect the beauty and creativity that fashion portrays and will unveil during Fashion week in September.

In addition to the lobby transformation, The Lightstone Group has commissioned Suzanne Couture to sculpt ten busts of great fashion designers which will be displayed in the building’s gallery connecting the 1407 Broadway lobby to the 533 7th Avenue lobby. The designer busts will line the gallery, paying tribute to the designer’s contributions to the world of fashion. The exhibit will portray designers known for reflecting the creativity and integrity of the industry and the artistic redesign will pay homage to the history of fashion as well as inspiration to up and coming designers. 1407 Broadway’s redesign is, in part, a reflection of the ownership’s commitment to the fashion industry and plans to maintain its presence as a famed fashion building for years to come.

1407 Broadway
Gettinger Management LLC
New York City
212-944-6094
www.lightstonegroup.com

Saturday, September 5, 2009

The First Annual Ferrari Hamptons Rally

THE FIRST ANNUAL FERRARI HAMPTONS RALLY


As the ideal way to wave goodbye to a memorable summer season, the First Annual Ferrari Hamptons Rally was the epitome of luxury and distinction— an East End afternoon of exclusive world-renowned vehicles, stylish surroundings, gourmet bites and refreshing cocktails.

The glamorous, red-carpet inaugural event, debuted at one of East Hampton’s finest dining and nightlife venues , Georgica Restaurant & Lounge, with an invitation-only guest-list of jet-setters, from celebrities and socialites, to media and business moguls. Ferrari aficionados had the opportunity to partake in the Hamptons rally, cruising past breathtaking estates, polo fields, vineyards, marinas and the ocean, all of which was preceded by an intimate brunch reception. Following the rally, the drivers and guests enjoyed a late afternoon fête, complete with specialty cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

As founder and co-host of the event, Nathaniel Christian is a Ferrari enthusiast and collector— the New York native credits his passion and fondness for the history and craftsmanship of the vehicles as his inspiration for the event. Nathaniel Christian has become a luxury lifestyle expert, as a real estate entrepreneur and restaurant and nightlife impresario. Co-host Nikki Beach Midtown is located in the vibrant heart of New York City; Nikki Beach Midtown combines classic beach club elegance with Manhattan sophistication. This urban outpost of the world-renowned Nikki Beach brand brings the ultimate beach club concept together with dining, fashion, music and entertainment. Since opening its doors in the heart of Midtown, the exclusive venue has hosted top events and welcomed VIPs and A-list celebrities.

The impressive list of event lifestyle sponsors included Grey Goose Vodka, Monticello Motor Club, Puma, Piper Champagne, Red Bull, Voss Water, Hamptons Magazine, Cavallino Magazine, Peroni, Ferrari Long Island, Miller Motorcars, Algar Ferrari, Wide World of Cars, Ferrari of Central New Jersey and the Ferrari Owners Club Northeast Region.

For more information please see the official Hamptons Ferrari Rally website here.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge 2009 at Blue Star Jets Field

Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge 2009 at Blue Star Jets Field
The often uttered phrase, “summer in the Hamptons” conjures up dozens of delightful pastimes and memories—but one thing is for certain, the Hamptons are just not The Hamptons without the Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge at Blue Star Jets Field.

A staple in the social scene, the Bridgehampton Polo Club is the summer melting pot of celebrities, socialites, media, and jet-setters. There is a reason that the Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge is a favorite on the Hamptons circuit. Unlike any other event, the A-list mingling and socializing takes place against the backdrop of highly-anticipated polo matches. The glamorous tradition has been enjoyed by a long, star-dominated list of past attendees including Anne Hathaway, Beth Ostrosky Stern, Brooke Shields, Debra Messing, Elizabeth Hurley, Jay-Z, Jeremy Piven, Jessica Alba, Mandy Moore, Natalie Portman, Chace Crawford, Kim Cattrall, Jessica Biel, and Christina Applegate, among many others.

This summer’s matches are already underway and the rest of the season promises to offer some of the most exciting in the sport of polo. The sport’s greatest athletes will compete for one of polo’s most treasured prizes. The season commenced on Saturday, July 18th for an unforgettable Opening Day, and continued for six consecutive Saturdays, ending August 22nd.

The coveted event of the summer, the VIP tent played host to an invitation-only cocktail reception for exclusive guests each Saturday afternoon during the tournament. In addition, this year’s season partners, joining efforts to make this year’s Challenge the most spectacular six weeks ever, included: Mercedes-Benz, Piaget, Blue Star Jets, Ralph Lauren, Pop Chips, Nespresso, Ferreti Yachts, Zino Platinum, Dellis Cay, Ameriprise Financial, Covertech, Riviera South Beach Hotel, Stoli, Robert Mondavi, Basil Hayden’s, Crumbs Bakery, Vue Water, Coca-Cola, and Alain Mikli.

The Insider’s Guide on this year’s Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge 2009 at Blue Star Jets Field.

HOST:
Bridgehampton Polo Club—The tournament host

WHEN:
Six consecutive Saturdays (from Opening Day—July 18, 2009 to the August 22, 2009)

WHERE:
Blue Star Jets Field at Two Trees Farm
849 Hayground Road
Bridgehampton, NY 11932.

COMPETING TEAMS:
CERTIFIED
CINQUE TERRE/HEATHCOTE
EQUEELEUS
W.B.F.
GREAT OAKS
BLACK WATCH

EXCLUSIVE APPAREL RETAILER: Polo Ralph Lauren will return this summer as the exclusive apparel retailer with an onsite shop at the Bridgehampton Polo matches. Evocative of the spirit and heritage of Polo, the shop will feature Ralph Lauren’s Black Watch collection and The World of Polo Fragrance. Spectators visiting the Ralph Lauren shop will have a great view of the polo matches and be able to enter to win a Polo lesson with Black Watch team member Nacho Figueras. www.ralphlauren.com

MEET THE SEASON PARTNERS:
Mercedes-Benz With a name that is synonymous with opulence, the Mercedes-Benz collection encompasses luxury, heritage, and innovation. A key partner, Mercedes-Benz brings the crème de la crème to the tournament. www.mbusa.com

Piaget Piaget’s reputation precedes itself—this Swiss luxury watchmaker and jeweler offers the most exquisite pieces in the world. www.piaget.com

Blue Star Jets
As the world’s largest private aircraft charter broker, Blue Star Jets offers an unparalleled level of personalized service. Founded by President Todd Rome and CEO Ricky Sitomer, their motto states, ANY JET, ANY TIME, ANY PLACE™. Blue Star Jets grants clients freedom from the financial constraints of fractional jet ownership; the savings of paying only for trips taken; and the flexibility to choose the best aircraft according to a trip’s specific budget requirement.
www.bluestarjets.com

Coca-Cola Coca-Cola brings the brand’s mission statement to the tournament: “To refresh the world…To inspire moments of optimism and happiness…To create value and make a difference.” www.thecoca-colacompany.com

Stoli Elit Stolichnaya’s super-luxury vodka, Stoli Elit showcases astonishing purity, elegance, and simplicity. It is born of a contemporary patented freeze-filtration process, replicating the age-old tradition. www.stoli.com

Riva Yachts The world’s major group of luxury boating, Riva’s engineering departments perfectly fuses technology and design in nautical design and performance. Their yacht models are legendary. www.riva-yacht.com

Sunday, August 2, 2009

George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom opens New Visitor Center at Touro Synagogue in Newport, RI

GEORGE WASHINGTON INSTITUTE FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM OPENS NEW VISITORS CENTER AT TOURO SYNAGOGUE IN NEWPORT, RI

The George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom celebrated the opening of The Ambassador John L. Loeb Jr. Visitors Center at Touro Synagogue on Sunday, August 2, 2009. Over 1,200 men, women and children attended on opening day.

United States Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a Newport resident, was the first in the door on Sunday morning. He said, “This is not only an enormous contribution to Newport and Rhode Island but also to the entire country. It tells the story of religious freedom with pictures and videos in a very user-friendly way, accessible to all ages.”

Other visitors noted: “… this exhibit will singlehandedly change historic presentation in the city, and will definitely be on the must see list for anyone coming to Newport” and “From the moment you walked through the doors you could sense that it wasn’t going to be an ordinary experience.”

David Brussat, the leading architecture critic in Rhode Island, praised the design of the Loeb Visitors Center at Touro Synagogue in his Providence Journal article of July 30, 2009. “The Loeb Center’s primary aesthetic features all conspire to express their unorthodoxy in ways that help the building fit into its colonial context. Its rusticated Indiana limestone, its arched Palladian fenestration of mahogany, its gently pitched roof all proclaim its embrace of Newport’s architectural community. It is obviously a classical building, yet it is unlike any other. No work of classicism could possibly depart from canon with greater dignity, hence no building could possibly fit onto a historic street with greater distinction.”

The new Visitors Center features interactive, multimedia exhibits exploring the meaning and importance of George Washington’s 1790 Letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport. This extraordinary letter is the first and clearest presidential expression of support for American’s constitutional right to the free exercise of religious belief and the separation of church and state.

The Loeb Visitors Center further interprets and celebrates the history and architecture of Touro Synagogue, the oldest functioning synagogue building in the nation. First dedicated in 1763, the synagogue was designed by America’s first architect, Peter Harrison. In 1946, Touro Synagogue became a National Historic Site under the U.S. Parks Service. Then in 2001, the National Trust for Historic Preservation also selected the synagogue as a National Historic Site, making it the sole religious institution amongst only 29 properties to be designated with this honor.

The Loeb Visitors Center is located on the Touro Synagogue campus at the intersection of Touro and Spring Streets, Newport, RI and is open every Sunday-Friday, from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The center is closed on Saturday. For more information, please visit www.tourosynagogue.org.

The George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom has built and will maintain the Loeb Visitors Center. The Institute’s mission is to promote awareness of the historic roots of religious liberty in America. In addition to the Loeb Visitors Center, the George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom supports educational and scholarship programs for individuals seeking to learn about and discuss the origins and development of American religious liberties.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

6th Annual Hamptons Happening Raises $265,000 for the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

6th Annual Hamptons Happening Raises $265,000 for the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

Star of Jon & Kate Plus 8, Jon Gosselin, attended the 6th Annual Hamptons Happening to Benefit the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) with engaged couple, Michael Lohan and Erin Muller. The threesome attended to show their support for a cause which both Gosselin and Lohan regard as personally important to them.

Honorary Chair Costas Kondylis, with Event Co-Chairs Laurie L. Schaffran and Marion Waxman led the evening, helping to raise $265,000 to benefit the SWCRF. Hosted by Susan and Louis Meisel, the festivities were held at The Sagaponack Sculpture Field with Dr. Samuel Waxman as the keynote speaker.

The SWCRF is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization that focuses on the most promising strategies for developing cures and treatments for many types of cancers. It even offers hope of being able to prevent cancer from developing. SWCRF is at the cutting edge of a revolution with alternatives to the traditional treatments of chemotherapy and radiation, which kill cancer (and healthy) cells. Foundation-supported research includes reprogramming chaotically growing cancer cells to behave normally, understanding cancer stem cells, and mobilizing the immune system. These will lead to precisely targeted treatments or preventatives which will have minimal side effects on the recipients.

In addition, participating restaurants showing their support at the benefit included Annie’s Organic Café, Bobby Van’s, Brandt Beef, Cavaniola’s Gourmet Cheese Shop, Chef Pierrot Signature Catering, DuFour Pastry Kitchens, The Fudge Shoppe, Ichiban Sushi, il laboratoria de gelato, Kneaded Bread, La Masseria, Leo’s Latticini, Magnolia Bakery, Manhattan Chili, Nichol’s, Pure Dark, The Seafood Shop, Shun Lee, Susan Meisel, Town Line BBQ and Tutto Il Giorno. Beverages were sponsored by Palm Bay Imports, Imperia Vodka, Fire Island Beer Company, Hampton Coffee Company and Pellegrino/Acqua Panna.

For more information, please visit www.waxmancancer.org.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Opus Hotel Vancouver - Indulge in the Ultimate Boutique Hotel Experience

Opus Hotel Vancouver - Indulge in the Ultimate Boutique Hotel Experience

Located in the historic and fashionable Yaletown, steps away from the inner harbor, entertainment, shopping, spas and twenty-five minutes from Vancouver International Airport, is the luxurious Opus Hotel Vancouver.

Uniquely stylish and always fresh, Opus Hotel Vancouver offers guests an unmatched boutique hotel experience. The hotel features ninety-six guestrooms that blend contemporary design with warm vibrant colors. The lavish rooms boast five different lifestyle-inspired décor schemes to suit every taste, ranging from modern and minimalist to artful and eclectic, with comfort and style as the unifying elements. Consistently named by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine as “One of the World’s Best Hotels” from 2005-2008 and “One of the Best 500 Hotels in the World” by Travel + Leisure Magazine from 2006-2008, Opus Hotel Vancouver is the place to stay when visiting Vancouver.

Whether traveling to Vancouver for business or pleasure, Opus Hotel Vancouver offers an expansive list of services and amenities. In addition to standard amenities, luxuries for guests include Frette bathrobes, L’Occitane bath amenities, an in-room oxygen dispenser, morning newspaper, 24-hour room service, heated tile bathroom floors, and overnight shoeshine service. All suites have a wet bar, and the penthouse suites feature wrap-around balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and double-sided fireplaces. The hotel offers a stylish 24-hour business center with two fully-loaded work stations with complimentary high-speed internet, printing and an airport check-in kiosk. The facilities go from corporate to casual—Opus has rooms to accommodate up to 75 guests for a reception or 48 for a dinner.

Swing by Opus Hotel Vancouver, even if it’s just for an evening. Elixir, Opus Hotel’s Bistro, and Opus Bar, which was voted “Vancouver’s Most Popular Nightspot” by Zagat Guide, offer the crème de la crème in dining and nightlife. At Elixir, Executive Chef Don Letendre takes a contemporary approach to classic French cuisine, crafting innovative dishes from the freshest seasonal ingredients. Choose a room to suit your mood: bustling Bistro, airy Garden Room or plush Velvet Room. At Opus Bar, a playful blend of iridescent lighting, designer furniture and shimmer screens set the mood for its sophisticated and style-savvy crowd. Known for its chic, “see-and-be-seen” vibe, Opus Vancouver has attracted many A-listers of Hollywood including, actors Amy Adams, Robert Pattison, John Cusack, Ashton Kutcher & Demi Moore, music artists Janet Jackson, Lil Wayne, Wycleaf Jean, R.E.M., and The Pussycat Dolls, and athletes Tony Parker and “Sugar” Shane Mosley. Opus Bar’s glass-walled restrooms and live video feeds allow you to always keep an eye on the action.

Opus Hotel Vancouver also offers complimentary transportation, available within the downtown area via the hotel’s luxurious 7 Series BMW. Two Opus mountain bikes and two Jorg & Olif city bikes are also available to guests, free of charge. Also offered are deluxe tea service, personal shopping, same-day laundry, in-room spa services and an extensive DVD library. For first time visitors, the hotel’s unique Lifestyle Concierge allows guests to choose from five virtual concierges as their personal guide to the city.
Whether guests are checking in the hotel for business or leisure, or simply enjoying an evening at Elixir or the dazzling Opus Bar— Opus Vancouver is sure to charm and exceed expectations.

Opus Vancouver
322 Davie Street, Vancouver,
British Columbia, Canada V6B 5Z6
Tel: 604-642-6787
Toll free: 1-866-642-6787
Fax: 604-642-6780
Email: info@opushotel.com
www.opushotel.com
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Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Optyx by Gruen presents the launch of a groundbreaking sports performance eyewear line

Optyx by Gruen presents the launch of a groundbreaking sports performance eyewear line
June 3, 2009

OPTYX by gruen has once again pushed the eyewear industry to a new level of quality and style with its latest venture: Sports OPTYX by gruen. Granting athletes a competitive edge – sharp, total vision – Sports OPTYX by gruen is born from a collaborative effort between PrescripSun™ by Carl Zeiss and Nike Vision Lens Technology, which has produced state-of-the-art athletic performance frames, available exclusively at OPTYX by gruen.

Nike Max Optics delivers precise vision at all angles, while Nike Max Tints enhance critical visual details, providing the ideal amount of light and the optimal range of color for the sport. In order to guarantee maximum performance, athletes must have a clear view in all directions— the Nike Max Optics’ patented performance design have been crafted to allow the clearest view over the widest angle, granting precise peripheral vision, customized for five major types of sporting activity:

• Nike Max Golf Tint
Grass reflects green and red, while golf balls reflect blue— the colors of these critical details transmit through the lens, reducing eye fatigue and improving visual clarity. Avid golfers, these glasses will assist in lowering your handicap— the contour of the green is easier to read, as the ball ‘pops’ against the grass, sand trap or sky.

• Nike Max Hi-Vis Tint
In low light, significant details such as rocks, shadows and curves are difficult to see. As the human eye is highly sensitive to the color yellow, the lens allows more of it to transmit through the lens. The tint delivers increased contrast on a foggy morning, an overcast afternoon or while the sun is setting— perfect for cyclists.

• Nike Max Speed Tint
A significant development for athletes such as long-distance runners, the tint is designed for endurance, reducing the glare that reflects off asphalt, relaxes eyes and enhances visual clarity.

• Nike Max Polarized
When sunlight hits a flat, reflective surface, glare is generated. The Nike Max Polarized neutralizes the reflective light waves, granting a range of athletes that includes skiers and rowers the ability to see through glare.

• Nike MaxAdapt
The photochromic lens darkens or lightens to adapt, automatically, to the level of ultraviolet light in the environment, from sunrise to sunset, sunny to cloudy.

About OPTYX by gruen: Jon Gruen, founder of OPTYX by gruen, the premium eyewear retailer in New York City, the Hamptons and Greenwich, CT, since 1971 continues to reinvent the eyewear business, with his innovative theory that eyeglasses can and should be one of the client’s most important fashion accessories. OPTYX by gruen is the newest expansion of grueneyes and offers the most high-end collection of designer eyewear. Their highly experienced and trained staff of opticians focuses on giving customers the opportunity to find the perfect style, while providing quality and friendly service. OPTYX by gruen prides themselves in offering clients top optometrists to give them the finest eye examinations. OPTYX by gruen presents the latest retail style by providing the hottest looks in eyewear and the best service in eye care at one location.

Monday, June 1, 2009

The Ravel Hotel Welcomes Summer with the Rooftop Bar & Lounge, Overlooking the New York City Skyline

The Ravel Hotel Welcomes Summer with the Rooftop Bar & Lounge, Overlooking the New York City Skyline
June 1, 2009

What better way is there to experience New York City than to spend an evening surrounded by the city’s breathtaking skyline? Located atop The Ravel Hotel, Long Island City’s first luxury boutique hotel, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge is preparing to open its chic nightlife hotspot, just in time for the summer 2009 season.

As the weather gets warmer, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers a refreshing alternative to Manhattan nightlife, boasting a 6,000 square-feet outdoor garden terrace, spacious 40-feet-long bar, and live music from the city’s hottest DJs—all against the backdrop of the city’s glittering nighttime skyline. The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge blends a sense of energy and fun with chic city style with sleek minimalistic furnishings, complemented by cheerfully bright plush seating. The space is intimately arranged, allowing guests to feel as though they are indulging in a secret rendezvous outside of Manhattan’s limits and under the serene beauty of the night sky. In addition to being the ideal place to spend a night-on-the-town, the rooftop space is also available for private events and wedding receptions, with catering available through the hotel. Additionally, guests seeking rest and relaxation under the warmth of the summer sun can find solace at the Rooftop Bar & Lounge during the day, reclining on luxurious cabanas and patio furniture.

This June, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge is launching a series of weekly nighttime events throughout the summer. On Monday nights, Reel Mondays, outdoor film screenings will be held. Guests must reserve their spots in advance and will be provided with a blanket to offer cover from summer breezes, a bottle of champagne and a picnic basket filled with delicious treats to complement the movie-watching experience. Rocks & Rolls will feature a professional guest cigar roller every Tuesday Night for patrons to enjoy while sipping their cocktails. Wednesday evenings will be host to Noche En La Terraza (Night on the Terrace) — a Latin-infused salsa/samba night. Overflowing frozen Mojitos and Sangria, coupled with sizzling Latin sounds, will provide guests with a spicy midweek getaway. Rise @ Ravel will set a new standard for New York nightlife on Thursday nights. Partnering with Astoria’s chic Central Bar and Lounge, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge will host a sophisticated, sexy happy hour and late-night fête that is the place to kick off any summer weekend.

Transportation to and from The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge is never a hassle. Having partnered with an exclusive Manhattan car service, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers guest a shuttle service from anywhere in Manhattan to the Long Island City nightlife venue, and vice versa, for an affordable flat-fee of $25. Conveniently, guests may simply place a call into the hotel’s front desk and the Ravel Hotel staff will coordinate all the details. Valet service is also available for The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge guests.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

The Blue Parrot - The Hamptons' Favourite Local Joint Returns

The Blue Parrot - The Hamptons' Favourite Local Joint Returns
In 1981 a disheveled crew of surfers, scoundrels and a lone cook turned a hidden corner of an East Hampton parking lot into a meeting place for artists, anglers, bonackers, bankers, weekenders and wayfarers that would one day become The Blue Parrot. The East Hampton eatery that was once described by Forbes Magazine as “the East End Elaine’s” makes a much-anticipated return this summer. Having closed shop in 2006, The Blue Parrot returns to a town eager for its go-to “quirky, laid-back Tex-Mex bar and restaurant.” As the town’s favorite dive bar, meeting place and local joint, The Blue Parrot brings together local residents and summertime visitors, offering a refreshing, casual and pretense-free alternative to New York and East End dining and nightlife. Seating for The Blue Parrot’s bar and restaurant offers guests a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where they have the choice to drink and dine alongside the bar, within the restaurant or atop the outdoor garden patio. Reservations are unnecessary at the Blue Parrot, as seating is based upon a strict first come, first served policy. In any attire, walk into this quirky hole-in-the-wall locale and you are sure to spot just about anyone, as everyone is welcome.

Paying homage to the original East Hampton eatery in its new incarnation, the walls of The Blue Parrot are adorned in the same eclectic fashion, bringing together such decorative details as vintage Mexican postcards and stocks and bonds (albeit from 1800s Mexico). The interior features gritty details, such as rough hewn wood, slowly revolving factory fans, and distressed paint in rich, exuberant colors evocative of Mexico City cantinas. The combination of these elements summon the excitement of a Dia de los Muertos celebration, while maintaining the laid-back, welcoming style that patrons appreciated in the original Blue Parrot. In an ode to the original Blue Parrot, an idea which stemmed from a group of East End surfers, The Blue Parrot will screen classic surfer films including The Endless Summer (1966), Big Wednesday (1978) and Ride the Wild Surf (1964), as well as spaghetti Westerns and the occasional sporting event.

The Blue Parrot will again feature a Tex-Mex and regional Mexican menu of common fare prepared uncommonly well, including quesadillas, burritos and nachos. There will be a strong emphasis on ‘fresh and local’ produce, fish, poultry, cheese and wine. The late-night menu (available after 10 PM) offers Classic Guacamole and Chicken Flautas, sure to satisfy nighttime guests who have few alternatives. The menu revives the original Blue Parrot Margarita, served in a mason jar, as well as sangria, premium and super premium tequilas and Mexican beers.

In keeping with its local-friendly efforts, The Blue Parrot will hire locally and plans to support local charities, such as The Peconic Land Trust and the Pikes Farm Stand Project, and hopes to sponsor a local East Hampton sports team. Additionally, Tuesday evenings at The Blue Parrot will be host to Dirty Bird Tuesdays— a night of drink and food specials for local East Hamptonites. Dirty Bird Tuesdays will also be the only available night for patrons interested in purchasing an official Blue Parrot t-shirt, subject only to local residents (must be verified by a local driver’s license).

The Blue Parrot
33A Main Street
East Hampton, NY 11937
(631) 329-BLUE (2583)
www.blueparroteasthampton.com