The Blog
September 08, 2019
ITINERARY BY NPK: LONG WEEKEND IN PARIS
I’m very lucky to say that I spend about three weeks a year in Paris for work. The Food! The style! The lights…what’s not to love about Paris?! Yes, much has been written about Paris but there is a reason for that… as we all know, Paris never gets old!
My strategy is to live like a chic local while still taking in the hits of Paris and if you stay where we stay, you are setting yourself up to have the most picture-perfect long weekend in Paris. I’m convinced we stay in the absolute best place in all of Paris. We stay at a beautiful studio apartment in the Palais Royale. It’s beautifully decorated and the owners are absolutely wonderful hosts. Sophie has created a giant binder of Paris recommendations is worth it alone. If you’re lucky (like us) and get to know her over time, she may even let you rent out her main apartment when she’s at her second home in Grasse but the studio is fabulous too.
THURSDAY
1. Angelina for lunch on Rue de Rivoli. Dessert is an absolute must here so definitely save room.2. Pop into Faure Le Page on Rue Cambon (think Goyard but with a history of leather goods made for gun-toting….a little cooler and not as played out IMO)3. Louis Vuitton Foundation4. Food shopping for breakfast and snacks (and maybe a picnic) at LeBonMarche (the food hall is directly next to the department store which is very much worth a visit too…I also usually pop into the Conran Shop which is catty-corner to LBP since the one in NYC is no longer)5. Early dinner at Bistrot Vivienne
FRIDAY
1. Musee de Beaux Arts at the Petit Palais2. Musee Rodin (Great place to picnic when the weather is nice….take a morning snack of café au lait and some fresh fruit and dine among the outdoor sculptures. Afterwards, stroll the museum, which is small and shouldn’t take too long)3. Deyrolle (the famed taxidermy store, long an inspiration of Wes Anderson)4. Stroll down Rue de Bac….eat a light lunch (or skip entirely) followed by something sweet (sweet shops line this entire street and they are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the belly)5. Stop in to Popelini for an out of this world cream puff and to take a selfie in front of their “I Got Puffed in Paris” sign
6. Assouline on Rue Bonaparte (Note: You will be near Le Bon Marche so if you didn’t get to go the day before, go now.)7. NapImage via Paramount Pictures8. Dinner at Le Grand Colbert. I love the smoked salmon with blinis to start, the roast chicken or a steak for my main and the baked Alaska for dessert.
9. Ice Cream at Une Glace à ParisImage via Une Glace à Paris
SATURDAY
1. Pack a picnic lunch if it’s nice out Musee des Arts Decoratifs (walk there from the Studio)
2. Picnic in the Jardin de Tuilleries (just a couple of blocks further on Rue de Rivoli…pick up some postcards en route and do your postcard-writing at the same time) Photo by Marco Verch
3. Start the evening with a cocktail at Le Meurice (during Fashion Week this is the best place for people watching)4. Dinner back at the Musee Des Artes Decoratifs at Lou Lou (make sure to book…I like doing the museum the same day but that’s just me)
SUNDAY
1. Musee D’Orsay (I like the walk if it’s nice out). The impressionists and decorative arts collection are not to be missed. Take a selfie in front of the giant clock.2. Stroll along Boulevard St. Germain3. Musee YSL If you’re ambitious and have another museum in you, go to the Musee Picasso, one of my favorites (although a cab ride away)4. Dinner at Freddy’s or Semilla. Freddy’s is Semilla’s more casual little brother of a restaurant next door. It serves up small plates tapas style and a huge selection of great wines by the glass. Both are amazing experiences and are adjoined so you can’t go wrong (you’ll definitely need a reservation at Semilla).
WHY
Because I spend about three weeks a year in Paris for work and I’m convinced we stay in the best place in all of Paris!
I’LL DO ANYTHING FOR
Paris window shopping and French Cheeses
I’LL DO ANYTHING TO AVOID
The crowds in front of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre….
WHEN
I go for Fashion Week (end of Sept/Early Oct. and March) which is an exciting time in Paris (at least if you’re into fashion) but April, May, June, and September are all fantastic months. I dramatically prefer Paris when it’s warmer.
FAVORITE MEAL
Le Grand Colbert: Smoked Salmon and Blinis at / Steak or Chateaubriand / Crème brûlée or Baked Alaska (sure this place has gotten a little touristy since Diane Keaton raved about it in “Something’s Gotta Give” but the room is an atmospheric slice of heaven, the food is very French and doesn’t disappoint, and plenty of locals still eat here…This is about a 90-second walk from Le Palais Royale
Bistrot Vivienne: Beef Tartar, Baked Camembert (not always available but if it is, get it!), / their incredible chicken and I rarely order chicken (I think it’s the Coquelet) / Chocolate Mousse is an absolute must and This is also about a 90-second walk from Le Palais Royale)
I BRING HOME
Goodies from Le Bon Marche, books from Deyrolle & quirky souvenirs from Colette
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September 03, 2019
BEST SWEETS IN NYC
FLOUR SHOP
Photo by William Sonoma
If you are need of a Birthday cake this place is a must! Order an explosion cake for the most colorful cake you’ve ever seen or stop in to pick up some mini sweet treats for a mid-day pick me up. 177 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013
TAIYAKI NYC
A Japanese ice cream shop known for their soft-serve served up in a fish-shaped cone. 119 Baxter St, New York, NY 10013
DOMINIQUE ANSEL
It wouldn’t be a trip to NYC without stopping by Dominique Ansel’s Bakery and trying the original cronut or one of their famous cookie shots! 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
DO
Photo by DO
Embrace the inner child in you at DO where you can eat as much cookie dough as your heart desires! They even have Gluten Free and Vegan options. 550 LaGuardia Place New York, NY 10012
JARS BY DANI
What’s better than cake? Cake in a jar! Jars by Dani is a great addition for any event or party. They look just as good as they taste!
MISTER SOFTEE
Photo by Mister Softee
The most famous ice cream food truck! You can’t go wrong with a vanilla chocolate swirl on a cone with rainbow sprinkles.
DAILY PROVISIONS
Photo by Melissa Hom
Looking for the perfect match with your coffee? Look no further! With a choice of either maple, strawberry or cinnamon, the Cruller’s at daily provision are a must! 103 E 19th St New York, NY 10003
VAN LEEUWEN ARTISAN ICE CREAM
Photo by Van Leeuwen
Artisanal Ice Cream made with the simplest, freshest ingredients. Vegan and Classic flavors available. Be sure to try their Honeycomb Flavor! 61 W Houston St, New York, NY 10012
SHAKE SHACK
Photo by Caroline Rodriguez
Best known for its burgers and fries, Shake Shack also has frozen custard available. Make sure to order a concrete, frozen custard with mix-ins, which are specialized for each location. 1333 Broadway New York, NY 10018
LEVAIN BAKERY
Photo by @julianne_rucker
The signature Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie is not only great to taste but also great for your Instagram feed. The crispy outside and gooey center will have you wanting more. 167 West 74th Street, New York, NY 10023
BIG GAY ICE CREAM SHOP
Photo by Sideways NY
Get creative when it comes to your ice cream cone here! Or just go with one of their signature dips. Either way, you are in for a BIG treat. 61 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
MILKBAR
Photo by Milk Bar
You can’t go wrong with a cup of cereal milk ice cream from MomoFuko Milk Bar. But if that’s not your style, they have everything from birthday cake truffles to compost cookies that are out of this world. 251 E 13th St New York, NY 10003
COFFEE & CREAM BY ODDFELLOWS
Photo by Melissa Hom
Want coffee and ice cream? We found the perfect place for you! Try their Wafflegato or the Matchagato. 55 E Houston St, New York, NY 10012
BLACK TAP
Photo by Black Tap
While their burgers are great too, Black Tap is best known for their giant freakshakes. These freakshakes are extreme milkshakes and come in flavors like Sweet and Salty or Cotton Candy. 529 Broome St, New York, NY 10013
THE DOUGHNUT PROJECT
Photo by Lindsay Paulen
An everything bagel? Nope. An Everything Doughnut. Too adventurous for you? That’s ok! Try the house favorite which is the Beet Doughnut filled with ricotta whip. 10 Morton Street New York, NY 10014
SOFT SWERVE NYC
Photo by @feedyourgirlfriend
An ice cream shop with Asian-inspired flavors! Stop in and try their ube purple yam flavor. 85B Allen St, New York, NY 10002
SERENDIPITY 3
Photo by Something Swanky
People usually come here for one thing and one thing only. The iconic Frozen Hot Chocolate. Big enough to split even though you may not want to! 225 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10022
LADY M
Photo by Lady M Cake Boutique
Make a stop to Lady M and try their signature Mille Crêpes. 20 thin crepes layered with pastry cream that will melt in your mouth. Feeling adventurous? Try their matcha or chocolate banana flavors. 36 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018
MAGNOLIA BAKERY
Photo by Magnolia Bakery
Anything you try at Magnolia Bakery is going to be delicious. But their Banana Bread Pudding is on another level. You can even get it in a party size! 401 Bleecker Street and W. 11th Street New York, NY
BUTTERCUP BAKE SHOP
Photo by Buttercup Bake Shop
The perfect place to pick up 100% buttercream cupcakes for you, your kids, friends, and family. They have four locations throughout the city. 973 2nd Ave New York, NY 10022
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August 26, 2019
BEST PLACES IN LONDON FOR AFTERNOON TEA
You’re invited to Afternoon Tea with Jet Set Candy. London is known for their afternoon tea and we want to share with you some of our favorite places to sit, relax and enjoy a cup of tea and wonderful treats while visiting this incredible city.
SKETCH
What: Modern High Tea with plush pink couches and an Instagram worthy bathroomWhere: 9 Conduit St, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG, UKWhen: Daily from 11:30 am to 4:30 pmCost: Starting from £59 per person
CLARIDGE'S
What: Traditional Afternoon Tea
Where: Brook St, Mayfair, London W1K 4HR, UK
When: Daily sittings at 2:45 pm and 5:30 pm
Cost: Starting from £65 per person
THE RITZ
What: Traditional Afternoon TeaWhere: 150 Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1J 9BR, UKWhen: Daily from 11:30 am to 7:30 pmCost: Starting from £58 per person
CUT
What: Modern Afternoon Tea with American classic inspired treatsWhere: 45 Park Ln, Mayfair, London W1K 1PN, UKWhen: Sittings on Monday through Saturday at 2:30 pm and 3 pm and Sundays at 3 pmCost: Starting from £55 per person
PRÊT-À-PORTEA
What: Modern Afternoon Tea inspired by a current fashion trend Where: The Berkeley, Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RL, United KingdomWhen: Daily from 1 pm to 5:30 pmCost: Starting from £45 per person
THE SAVOY
What: Traditional Afternoon TeaWhere: The Savoy Hotel, Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, United KingdomWhen: Daily from 1 pm to 5:45 pmCost: Starting From £65 per person
DOMINIQUE ANSEL
What: Modern Afternoon TeaWhere: 17-21 Elizabeth St, Belgravia, London SW1W 9RP, UKWhen: Sittings on Thursday through Sunday 2 pm and 4:15 pmCost: Starting from £42 per person
MIRROR ROOM
What: Modern Afternoon Tea with an artist inspired menu that includes hand-painted treatsWhere: Rosewood London, 252 High Holborn, Holborn, London WC1V 7EN, UKWhen: Monday through Friday from 2 pm to 5:30 pm, and weekends from 12 pm to 5:30 pmCost: £58 per person
MAD HATTERS TEA PARTY
What: Modern Afternoon Tea inspired by Alice and WonderlandWhere: 50 Berners St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3NG, UKWhen: Monday through Saturday 12:30pm to 4pm, Sunday 1pm-5pmCost: Starting from £48 per person
B BAKERY AFTERNOON TEA BUS
What: Modern Afternoon Tea on a bus as you get a tour of the cityWhen & Where: 12:30 pm and 3 pm tours depart from 8 Northumberland Avenue12pm, 2:30pm & 5pm tours depart daily from Victoria Coach StationCost: £45 per adult *Cost does not include champagne*
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August 05, 2019
THE MUSTS: HAVANA
AMBOS MUNDOS HOTEL
Photo by Travels in Cuba
Stop by Ernest Hemingway’s favorite hotel in Havana and enjoy both a drink and the view from the roof of this historic hotel. 153 Obispo, La Habana, Cuba
HABANA VIEJA
Photo by Patrik Bergstr
Wander the streets to find endless stunning architecture and brightly colored vintage cars on every corner.
CASA MIGLIS
Photo by Havana Insider
Don’t miss enjoying a meal at Casa Miglis, the Swedish-Cuban restaurant in the central Havana home of Swedish filmmaker Michael Miglis. Lealtad, La Habana, Cuba
MUSEO NACIONAL BELLAS ARTES DE LA HABANA
Photo by Bencito the Traveller
Be sure to visit Museo Nacional Bellas Artes de la Habana to see how massively the island of Cuba has contributed to th arts. Havana, Cuba
PARTAGRÁS
Photo by Joao Eduardo Figueiredo
Cubans are known for their cigars. Take a tour of Partagrás, one of the largest cigar factories to learn more about them. y, Penalver, La Habana, Cuba
RIDE IN A CONVERTIBLE TAXI
Photo by Lonely Planet
Take a ride in an antique convertible to get yourself from point A to point B.
THE MALECÓN
Take a walk down the Malecón for a beautiful view of the water. The path runs for about 5 miles down the coast.
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June 06, 2019
BEST BREAKFASTS IN NYC
New York City, the place where bacon, egg, and cheese can be found on every corner and a coffee can be found in everybody’s hand. But did you know NYC has a variety of restaurants to get some equally delicious breakfasts?
MAIALINO
Photo by Maialino
Located in the Gramercy Park Hotel, Maialino serves out delicious Italian inspired breakfast. If you are looking for more of an extensive menu, plan to go here for your next weekend brunch.
2 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10010
RUSS AND DAUGHTERS
Photo by Russ and Daughters
Providing you with the stereotypical New York breakfast for over a century. If you are in the mood for an everything bagel with lox and cream cheese, look no further!
179 E Houston St New York, New York 10002
BARNEY GREENGRASS, KING OF STURGEON
Photo by Alex Lau
A deli and restaurant located on the Upper West Side serving you sturgeon, Nova Scotia Salmon and much more. This is a perfect place to get a classic New York brunch.
541 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
BONSIGNOUR
Photo by What Sarah Knows
Bonsignour is the perfect place for prepared food, salads, sandwiches and much more. Located in the west village, this small deli is always busy.
35 Jane St, New York, NY 10014
DAILY PROVISIONS
Photo by Daily Provisions
Home to the delicious Cruller, Daily Provisions is a great stop for a quick bite to eat. If you want something on the salty side, do not worry, Daily Provisions has a wide variety of breakfast sandwiches to choose from.
103 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003
DOMINIQUE ANSEL KITCHEN
Photo by Nooklyn
Different from the Bakery, the Kitchen is a fresh made to order experience. All your items will be made after you order them (including pastries) to ensure excellent quality and taste. The menu is similar to the bakery but offers different options. But if you are on the lookout for the cronut or cookie shot, they are only available at the bakery!
137 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014
COOKSHOP
Photo by Sincerely Jenna Marie
Using the freshest ingredients available, Cookshop’s breakfast menu has all your favorite breakfast dishes ranging from crumb cake and muffins to huevos rancheros.
156 Tenth Ave New York, New York 10011
THE DOUGHNUT PLANT
Photo by The Doughnut Plant
What is better than a doughnut and coffee for breakfast? Nothing! If you are in the mood for an artisanal handmade doughnut, stop by the Doughnut Plant. Try their Peanut Butter and Banana Cream doughnut or the world’s first crème Brûlée doughnut.
379 Grand Street, New York, NY 10012
JACK'S WIFE FREDA
Photo by Jack’s Wife Freda
With locations in the West Village, SoHo and Chelsea, Jack’s Wife Freda has an extensive menu with meals from Israel, South Africa, and New York. Stop in to try their Rosewater Waffle!
224 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012
THE BUTCHERS DAUGHTER
Photo by The Butchers Daughter
A plant-based restaurant with locations in Nolita, West Village, and Brooklyn. The Butchers Daughter menu has a wide variety. You can get anything from French toast to an egg sandwich.
19 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012
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May 01, 2019
THE MUSTS: DUBLIN
Stay at Dean Dublin for a luxurious and on-trend experience and throw back a pint of Guinness or two at the Temple Bar...