New York
As Curated by Voyager Voice, Amanda Ross creator of ARossGirl
New York City is the center of the world, or at least mine. And though I did not grow up in NYC, my parents and grandparents (tried and true New Yorkers) made me feel as if I did. My point of reference growing up were Beekman Place and Park Avenue. That's where my grandparents lived and for that reason, the Upper East Side has always been a place I call home. The city is a brilliant melting pot where all worlds collide. New York is the place where dreams come true. It is a city for walking fast, visiting museums, seeing theater, shopping and eating well. Here are a few of my favourite New York hidden gems as well the classics.
Above photograph of Amanda by Select 7
WHERE TO STAY...
The Greenwich Hotel. My husband and I love to do staycations. We have tried many hotels but we love the Greenwich hotel in Tribeca. You feel like you are in another city. We had a couples massage at the Suibui Spa, which in my opinion is one of the best spas in the city. The hotel's restaurant is Locanda Verde, where we had dinner and breakfast. It was so delish!
The Carlyle Hotel. It is cozy, romantic and filled with splendor of the city and those visiting it. I stayed here the night before my wedding in 2016. The rooms are great, and the location couldn't be more perfect. It is on Madison Avenue where there is lots of good shopping, and only a few blocks away from the Met Museum. Once I was introduced to George & Amal Clooney by the operator.
The Lowell Hotel is another cozy and romantic hotel in the city. It reminds me a bit of Paris, especially with the hotel's French restaurant, Majorelle. The rooms are very spacious and have lovely decor. Another great option if you're looking for somewhere cozy, quiet, romantic, with a European twist!
The Greenwich Hotel
Gagosian Gallery
WHAT TO DO…
Explore the city on foot and visit some of the best galleries in the world- my favorites are David Zwirner, Pace Gallery, Aquavella and Gagosian. New York City has some of the best shows (when the world resumes)… and these galleries are all worth your time.
Another thing I love to do is to walk through Central Park- entering from 72nd street and walking up to the reservoir- It is so beautiful especially during spring and summer to get some exercise. I also love to walk on Madison Avenue, there are so many great shops and restaurants.
WHERE TO EAT…
Sant Ambroeus! I love to go to Breakfast when the Greens are in town for the art fairs. Meet my twin sis, her husband, Jonathan Green, and two of her 3 boys, Oli and Charlie Green. They have, hands down the best Cappuccino in-town. When I'm feeling skinny I indulge in the sugar croissant and after lunch or dinner, the mint chocolate chip cream.
Another one of my favorite restaurants is Sette Mezzo. My go to dish is the Bronzino grilled with a side of Vinaigrette. Kappo Masa is another all time favorite... especially the “smoking gun”. Best lunch spots Uptown: La Goulue, The Mark Hotel, Flora at the Met Breuer, Cafe Sabarsky at Neue Galerie.
Amanda’s sister, Alison Green and family
Creel and Gow, New York
WHERE TO SHOP…
My go to’s are Bergdorf Goodman, Marie Helene de Taillac, Neue Galerie Museum Shop, Plaza flowers for the most beautiful arrangements, Creel & Gow for great unique pieces. Also Moda Operandi for something special. A hidden gem, Bardith vintage for Herculaneum Blue and white English ceramics.
There are special shops that makes me venture downtown. DeVera now is Chelsea and I can not wait to visit the Dior Chez Moi pop up in Soho.
Amanda by Select 7
what was YOUR LOCKDOWN EXPERIENCE?
I spent the majority of the pandemic in Southampton, NY which gave me a new perspective on New York City, the place I have called home for the better part of 4 decades. The city narrative has changed since the pandemic with many people deserting for one reason or another. I came back to the city in November and realized that I am not nor ever will I be a deserter.
WHAT IS YOUR FEElING ON THE CITY NOW?
Even with a pause on theatre and a change in the retail visual landscape, and epic closing of long time institutions (21’Club)…. all the things that make NYC vibrant, I still love the city, it will always bounce back. I believe in New York City. I feel l belong here.
WERE YOU ABLE TO TRAVEL THIS YEAR?
Since I travel for both personal and work purposes constantly, I welcomed the break from travel. Although I’m very excited to travel again soon.
HOW HAS IT BEEN RUNNING A BUSINESS AND WFH?
I looked at it as an opportunity to be creative and more present in my business. Having WFH since 2017, not much changed. I used to believe you needed to separate work + home. I could never have achieved all I have with ARossGIrl because of my other priorities had I not worked from home. I do believe this is the way forward.