#tignewyork

THE TIG ARCHIVES│TRAVEL│INSIDER’S GUIDE TO THE LOWER EAST SIDE

“It wasn’t until filming the pilot for Suits that I began to know NY. And it wasn’t until a good year after that, that I began to know NY well. I found my nook. My downtown: a little grubby, a little rough around the edges, a lot stylish, and as cool as I aspired to be - we’re talking the Lower East Side. I love a neighborhood that you can get lost in, always finding new nooks and crannies, interest and intrigue. And while the West Village is high on my list, and nothing is more convenient for work than staying uptown, this neck of the woods deserves a post all its own. And trust me when I say, editing this down to our favs was a task in and of itself. Bon voyage, friend!”

- Meghan Markle, February 2015

STAY

The Ludlow - “When my dear friend, Markus (you know the one), intro’d me to Johnny Christ to check out the new property he had his hands in, I was tickled pink to try it out (after all, Johnny had been the main man at The Bowery Hotel, followed by The Nomad, and then West Village gem, The Marlton) - the man has taste. The Ludlow was generous in allowing us to use the space for a Tig photo shoot, both in the perfectly styled rooms, the welcoming lounge, and breathtaking rooftop. It really is a LES treasure which I can’t wait to call home next time I’m in the city.”

The Bowery Hotel - “An old standy, known for its cozy charm, who’s who nightlife scene (let’s not discuss the nights I’ve had on the back patio with everyone from my Suits cast mates, to Jess Stam, Dianna Agron, and the countless celebs you end up clinking glasses with). And yet, with all of that star power, it remains one of the most down to earth properties you could dream of - friendly staff, soaking tubs that wash away any bad day, and also small balconies from the baby suites that make it feel like your own LES sanctuary. Ask for Gigi. She’s my favorite.” 

EAT

Dirty French - “Since opening on the ground floor of The Ludlow this fall, Dirty French has been booked solid with reservations - and for good reason. It’s not only the classic, #throwback French restaurant that’s opened around the city recently, but it is one of the best (and considering it’s brought to you by Mario Carbone and Rich Torrisi - the same team behind the much lauded Torrisi Italian Specialties, it’s not exactly a surprise). They’re not messing around with the food here because with plates like duck a la orange and cote de bouef for deux, you don’t come here if you’re just looking for a nosh.”

Contra - “It’s difficult to describe the food at Contra (they like to call it ‘contemporary New York cuisine’), but we can say this: whatever they’re serving today on their seasonal, locally-sourced 5-course tasting menu is delicious and like nothing you’ve ever had before. They use a ton of vegetables that tend to not get a lot of love on other menus (like kohlrabi) and combine flavors in unique ways that will certainly pique your tastebuds. Plus, at $55 for a tasting menu, you’re not going to get a better deal in the city if you tried.”

Freemans - “Hidden in the back of an easy-to-miss alleyway, Freemans has that hipster vibe that shows itself not only in the flannel clad crowd that heads there for brunch, but in its cool, eclectic decor. The food is great and the place is one of the coolest in the city, but note that they don’t take reservations, so bring your phone to flip through your Instagram feed while you wait.”

The Fat Radish - “A delightful and delicious British (yes, British!) restaurant, The Fat Radish may have one of the greatest restaurant names of all times, but that’s not why we keep going back to this beloved spot (okay, not the only reason). On top of its delectable, locally-sourced cuisine (featuring sharable plates like Montauk diver scallops and peeky toe crab gratin), The Fat Radish just has a happy, bright vibe that we simply love.”

Clinton Street Baking Company - “Hands down the most-loved, most-talked about, and most crowded bakery and brunch in all of NYC - and that’s really saying something. New Yorkers from every side of town flock to CSBC for their fluffy blueberry and banana-walnut pancakes and brioche french toast. But the real secret is that the restaurant serves their menu all day, including dinner, so if you ever have a hankering for breakfast at 9pm, you know where to go.”

SHOP

Reformation - “A brand that’s cute and eco-conscious - now that’s what we’re talking about. Reformation may be LA-based, but it fits right in to the Lower East Side, where doing things that are good for the earth while still remaining chic gives the area its mojo.”

Frankie Shop - “What was once the cult e-comm site Pixie Market’s brick-and-mortar is now the concept shop Frankie - a much more grown-up version of the original boutique. Head here for creative work wear (like tuxedo dresses and oversized turtlenecks) at prices that you’ll scoff at - for how low they are for the quality the goods are.” 

Narnia Vintage - “Vintage shops are like Starbucks on the Lower East Side - they’re literally everywhere, but Narnia Vintage is one that stands out. It may be a teeny tiny storefront, but its offerings are selected so perfectly that you won’t even need to rummage around through tons and tons of clothing. Narnia is known to be the fav of vintage pros around the world, so you know that it’s definitely at the top of its class.”

Russ and Daughters - “Historically, The Lower East Side housed mostly  Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, and you can still get a taste of that (literally) today. And in a city filled with a deli on every corner, Russ & Daughters is where you should be getting your lox for all those bagels and schmear you plan on eating later. The food shop celebrated its 100th anniversary last year (which they celebrated by opening up a cafe around the corner), so you know they’re at least doing something right (and that something is smoked fish.) Seriously - run, don’t walk over there.” 

Bowery and Vine - “Rather than raiding your mini bar for a $50 half bottle of mediocre wine, hit up this local wine shop that carries wines from nearly every region you could possibly think of. And their liquor offerings are notable as well, particularly with their whiskey selection. Plus, the staff is incredibly helpful and knowledgable, so holler at them if you need any help or if you just want to chat about booze.”

FROLIC

Yoga High - “Even though the Lower East Side isn’t as hectic as, say, Midtown, it’s still tough to find peace and quiet in a city like New York. So slow down, take a breather, and take a class at Yoga High. It’s crucial to slow it down for a quick hour or so while you’re in NYC, so finding a great yoga spot is critical, and Yoga High is the absolute best in the Lower East Side.”

The Tenement Museum - “Hands down --this is the coolest museum in New York City. And considering all the wonderful museums in New York, that’s saying quite a lot. But you’re not going to get the same experience that you do at The Met or The Guggenheim - The Tenement Museum is a hands-on experience. You’ll be taken on one of their many tours - either a walking tour of the neighborhood (including their legendary food tour) or a tour of an actual tenement. The Lower East Side is filled with so much history, and The Tenement Museum gives you a look at what it would be like to have been an immigrant in the turn of the century. This is something that you won’t want to miss - so make sure you sign up in advance on their website.” 

THE TIG ARCHIVES│FOOD│LA BOîTE

“Pondering the best job in the world? Have you considered being a spice sommelier? If not, the I highly suggest you add it to your list. Lior Lev Sercarz reigns supreme in this category, traveling the world, and carefully curating spice blends for Michelin star chefs, such as Eric Ripert of Le Bernardin. Bon Appétite name him a “Tastemaker of the Year” in 2012, and Vogue, Saveur, and Food & Wine mag are all privy to the artistry of this Israeli born, now NY based locavore. Having studied at Institut Paul Bocuse, and working under the mastery of Olivier Roellinger, Sercarz then worked as sous chef under Daniel Boulud at his NY institution Daniel. He now owns and operates La Boîte, an inviting jewel sized spice shop (and art gallery) in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen, that I had the goody-goody-gumdrops pleasure of exploring this past week.

The space holds a plethora of carefully blended spices, each reflecting a place, moment, or feeling as experienced through the mind (and incredible travels) or Lior. Take, for example, “Breeze No.5,” a blend of tea, anise, and lemon, which would be divine on a beautiful filet of arctic char. Or perhaps you’re roasting a leg of lamb and need it to have that je ne sais quoi quality, so you opt to imbue it with flavor & dimension using “Tangier No. 23,” a rose petal, cumin, and cardamom creation. Let’s just take a beat, as my friend, Tuke, and I did, to take in how perfect all of these culinary cult finds are for hostess gift. I mean...Martha Stewart would be proud. As would Emily Post. But I digress. 

Within his shop you will find signature biscuits (Lior has gone 8 years without repeating any flavors), including my personal favorite, Kerala (a bespoke blend of pan masala & turmeric flecked crisps sandwiching a rich layer of dark chocolate). This guy is on to something.

Case in point, the above [refer to pictures] are the freshly made biscuits ready to be hand picked into specialty tins, which, by the way, feature the designs of artists whose collections he puts on display on a monthly basis. To the right are pamphlets including “Figs: Ten Ways to Prepare Them” - small booklets that Lior originally published in French, and have been recently transcribed in English. Each one is hand stitched, and includes beautiful notes on the art and preparation of simple ingredients. I am certifiably obsessed with these...as with the incredible olive oil from his father’s olive grove in Israel.

All of his incredible bites can be found at www.laboiteny.com and specialized retailers in NY, such as Eataly. In addition, you can purchase Lior’s revelatory book, The Art of Blending, for your personal collections, or as a very special gift.”

THE TIG ARCHIVES│TRAVEL│INSIDER’S GUIDE TO BROOKLYN

“The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, in Washington D.C. recently curated a new exhibit which aims to define what it means to be “cool.” The exhibit traces the evolution of cool, running the gamut from Billie Holiday & Miles Davis to Faye Dunaway and Jay Z. Within this exploration of who the cool kids are, 96 other iconic influences are highlighted - those who have helped frame a moment in cultural history with an original artistic vision, and a “stylish stoicism.” Not everyone could be included, clearly, but it did get my wheels spinning. Who would I include on the list? I sometimes put on my leather jacket and feel cool-ish, or sip a single malt scotch and fancy myself to be kinda cool, but it’s not in my bones. Some people are just born that way.

Meet Lizzie and Darlene Okpo, founders and designers of the much adored label, William Okpo. These NY raised daughters of Nigerian immigrants, with a penchant for style and realness, are arbiters of cool. Juxtaposing indigenous style and sensibilities with a nod to current American culture, their designs evoke the perfect balance of honoring where they came from, and celebrating where they are going. With their line at Opening Ceremony, and fashionista supporters such as their best mate, Solange Knowles on speed dial, these broads have much to celebrate, indeed. They’re gonna go far, and where they end will undoubtedly be (yep, you guess it)...cool. I asked the girls to share their TIG Insider’s Guide to Brooklyn, NY, their stomping ground du moment. From foodie finds to the perfect stop for gardening goodies, these ladies have Brooklyn on lock.”

Eat

Saraghina - “The ultimate brunch place on the weekend. The cutest backyard for eating! Sometimes I forget I’m in Brooklyn. When friends are in town this is their first choice for eating. Everyone brags about the pizza and it took me a year to give in and try it. Once I did I couldn’t turn back. So good. Usually I order brunch - ricotta chocolate chip pancakes. Unreal.”

Madiba - “Usually we have to wait 20 minutes for a seat inside, and 45 minutes for a seat outside. But it’s worth it. Nothing but beautiful people eat here for its cute South African aesthetics. Everyone with a taste in Brooklyn has stopped by this restaurant to indulge in a salmon burger at some point. If they haven’t, they have definitely put this on their list as a place to eat soon. **As of now, Madiba is permanently closed.”

Black Swan - “We bike here once a week to indulge in Thai sweet chicken wings. The whole place is painted black but still has the best lighting. I take my guy friends here as it has a tough guy, but super sweet feel to it. My friends love it. They always thank me because they end up taking their dates/girlfriends to Black Swan afterwards. That’s what friends are for.”

Dough - “The dangerously delicious doughnut shop will be the reason for my round belly. After Black Swan we walk around the corner and order two doughnuts per person and cut them up in pieces so we can all sample and indulge in each other’s doughnuts. The doughnuts are sooo good you can’t just have one flavor. There’s passion fruit, hibiscus, and my favorite, coconut! We are guilty of waiting in a 15 minute line for these doughnuts. The shop is super tiny and so cute!”

Alice’s Arbor - “When friends are in town and we want to eat brunch in the neighborhood we all mutually agree to go here. **As of now, Alice’s Arbor is also permanently closed.”

**Tig Tip** - The menu here has everything from a potato crab hash to a sandwich aptly called “The Yum Yum” (a grilled delight of organic chicken, tomato confit, mozzarella, and pesto pressed between sourdough). Wash it down with a “Mayday” (their lillet, honey, and sage infused cocktail).

Shop

Cloak and Dagger - “Owned by Brookelynn Starnes, who sells every cute designer brand you can imagine. She has some cute Karen Walker glasses and Opening Ceremony Mary Jane sandals. The interior decor at the shop makes me want to redo my bedroom. Such an inspiring shop.”

Frolic 

Seasons - “At the beginning of spring we run around the corner to redecorate our apartment with new plants from the garden shop. The owner of the shop will convince you how wrong you were for ever thinking it was okay to buy plants from Home Depot. She is brilliant. And her flowers and plants will have you thinking you can transform your apartment into a real jungle.”

- Meghan Markle, May 2014

THE TIG ARCHIVES│FOOD│NEW YORK FOOD CRAWL

“The memories of filming the pilot for Suits, the fast frenetic energy only lulled by my morning jog through Central Park, the quintessential Manhattan bravado, the elderly ladies who lunch at Bergdorfs (draped in diamonds, nursing their martinis, watching the day go by against the backdrop of Kelly Wearstler papered walls) - these are a few of the reasons I love New York. But it’s the food, the mother f-ing fantastic, crave-worthy food, that keeps me wrapped around its little finger.

I always try a few new restaurants when I’m in town, and then there are my usual suspects - the gems that are pit stops for me and my voracious appetite, whether I have 5 days in the city of just 32 hours. Here are a few of those places, both old and new, that I enjoyed on my last New York Food Crawl.”

Rubirosa - “Tucked down Mulberry street, with an inviting bar, warm tones washing the walls, and the smell of basil and rich tomato sauce wafting throughout, there rests my holy grail of pizza. My love for Rubirosa began in the first week they opened. A friend had mentioned it to me, I sat at the bar and had a slice of their a la vodka pie (okay, I had two) and a cold beer. That is where my love affair began. Their menu extends well beyond pizza, with pastas and entrees I can vouch for, and desserts that you make room for despite being stuffed. But it’s the pizza, the blessed chewy/crunchy perfect crust, the gooey cheese, and the unparalleled bite that I literally dream of. My normal order is a large pie with vodka sauce, sausage, and broccoli rabe. But on this last occasion, when told that I had to try the “Honeypie” special (with spicy calabrese atop their classic pie, layered with fontina cheese, roasted garlic and chili flakes, and finished with honey and parsley), I said, “Well, you insist...Honeypie.” One of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Jean Georges - “A longtime fan of Chef Jean George Vongerichten’s restaurants, I had never eaten at the signature hub, Jean Georges, and needed to rectify this. When I knew I had a few days in town, I made a lunch date with my favorite foodie friend, Mr. Alan Sills. Alan loves a Michelin star lunch like most people love their iPhones - it is just a natural (and necessary) part of his daily routine. As a matter of fact, when we met for the first time, he was dining at Le Bernardin and I struck up a conversation with him about his crudo plate with a thin layer of foie gras beneath. We’ve been friends ever since. The namesake Jean Georges restaurant in The Trump Hotel is iconic for a reason - the food is exceptional, and the service incomparable. We started with an amuse bouche that celebrated the flavors of spring with a frothy chilled pea soup. Then we had one delectable course after another - the duck drizzled in cherry reduction, the decadent preparation of poached egg yolks resting between thin sheets of toasted brioche and topped with copious amounts of caviar. Our 12 course, 3 hour lunch, almost made me miss my flight. It would have been worth it. (Also note that outside of the grandeur of our meal, Jean Georges offers a three course $32 tasting menu at lunch, where if I were you, I would order the sweet pea soup with parmesan to start, then the black bass, and the strawberry shortcake for dessert. But that’s just me.”

Hinata - “My best friend Linds mentioned a new ramen restaurant that had opened, one that was whispered to be better than the barometer for foodie approved ramen in NYC, Ippudo. We had to go. On a lazy Sunday, Linds, our dear friend Amanda, and I ventured to this ramen heaven to see what all the fuss was about. Let me just say this - the fuss was validated. Turns out chef and owner, Madoka Tamura, works closely with Ippudo, so much so that all of their noodles are made in collaboration. The space is minimal, yet warm and cozy enough to pull up a chair and have a satisfying bowl of ramen with their silken broth even if you’re flying solo. But as a trio, we had the good fortune of being able to order a bit of everything - which was a bonus for the visit. The chicken wings were delicious (crispy, tangy, meaty), and the pork buns looked so perfect, they could have been in an anime movie - the fluffy white bun, the crisp leaf of lettuce, the juicy pork dripping onto your hands as you picked it up. there were four pieces; I ate two of them. Then for the ramen, my personal favorite being the Kara Ramen which uses organic, hormone free chicken broth spiked with a house made chili oil. The vegan option was solid, as was the signature Hinata Paiten Ramen, laced with green onion, spinach, thick cuts of pork, and rich unctuous noodles. Nom to the nom, to the nom.” **As of now, Hinata is permanently closed.

- Meghan Markle, June 2014