The artists represented in Influences of Time can be linked to Swiss art historian Heinrich Wolfflin’s universal theory of “history of art without names” (Kunstgeschichte ohne Namen). This show explores artists’ reactions to the often drastic and turbulent changes of their time: physical barriers between countries, cultures, and people as well as innovative technology and the exploration of epistemology and perception. We see how these works, individually and in concert, act as drivers for change in society, inciting “demand for culture.”

As it enters the world, art speaks of the time of its making and the time of its maker, also marking the climate of its own making. The intention of the artist and the apprehension by the viewer, which is influenced by their own entrance into their own time, makes for an exciting and varied perspective. Though there are timeless threads, we always see from our unique point of entry. We can follow the many trajectories that characterize a very rich heritage, one that shows no signs of fatigue or exhaustion. Influences of Time surveys and celebrates these diverging paths and intentions – both aesthetic and political. These intentions speak to and weave through each other, with Time their central theme.

The definition of art in the most basic of terms is that art is the physical expression byman/woman of his/her time  in culture/society. It is visual  philosophy and can take many forms.

Most art is political in its nature in some aspect as it marks the climate of its own making.

But these extremes do not define the limits of twentieth century art, just as the works of the artists represented do not define the limits of painting, collage, performance art, and installation art. There is always more to find and to search out, especially as the artists find their different ways through their own present and past cultural background as well as those of other countries through which they have traveled or in which they have settled. We can follow the many trajectories that characterize what is a very rich heritage, one that shows no signs of fatigue or exhaustion.

After a decade of focusing primarily on the figure, Maria Kreyn experiments in zooming out with her storm paintings. They aim to observe the human condition from the vantage point of planetary weather. Perhaps the logic and even physics of our emotions follow the same physics as smoke and storms — all dynamical systems that are at once organized and chaotic. 

Artists: Alexander Kosolapov, Alexander Ney, Andy Warhol, Barry Le Va, Kliment Red’ko, Constantin Brancusi, Dmitry Krasnopevtsev, Eduard Steinberg, Ely Bielutin, Ernst Neizvestny,  George Grosz, Georges Braque, Gordon Matta-Clark,  Gustav Klutsis, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Ivan Kliun, Ivan Puni, Karel Appel, Komar and Melamid, Lidiya Masterkova, Lucio Pozzi, Maria Kreyn, Marie Vorobieff, Mark Tobey, Markus Lüpertz, Mikhail Larionov, Natalia Goncharova, Nikolai Tolkunov, Nikolai Suetin, Peter Halley, Pyotr Belenok, Philip Guston, Robert Mangold, Rosalia Rabinovich, Rostislav Lebedev, Samuil Adlivankin, Serge Charchoune, Sergei Volokhov, Sol LeWitt, Vasily Sitnikov, Vladimir Bekhterev, Vladimir Nemukhin, Vladimir Ovchinnikov, William Brui, Yves Klein, and Ülo Sooster. 

Also on view will be a selection of highlights from our previous exhibition, Alviani X Ancient, which features a dazzling display of abstract art and jewelry by Italian artist Getulio Alviani (1939-2018), a key figure in Zero, and Optical, in dialogue with antiquities from three millennia.

The exhibition will be on display at 38 East 70th Street, New York, NY 10021. Exhibition hours are Mondays – Fridays: 10 AM – 6 PM; closed Saturdays and Sundays. Email: Visit@c1760.art. Phone: +1 917 261 4022. Website: C1760.art

About C1760

To meet the evolving demands of our community, Colnaghi Ltd, the world’s oldest commercial art gallery, launched C1760, a new and transformative department for Modern and Contemporary Art that helps audiences navigate ~ and shape ~ the market.

From its Upper East Side headquarters at 38 East 70th Street, C1760 is committed to promoting innovative, cross-cultural programming and collecting and bridging the worlds of Modern and Contemporary Art with Antiquities and Old Masters.

About Victoria Golembiovskaya

Golembiovskaya is the Chief Executive Officer of Cinfinity and C1760. She is one of the world’s leading art consultants, dealers, and curators working with private, corporate, and museum clients. In 2010, she established the art advisory firm House of the Nobleman in London, arranging hybrid curatorial projects that transform landmark properties into gallery spaces, showing works by Blue Chip artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Calder.

Victoria joined Colnaghi Gallery in 2019 and established the company’s successful Modern and Contemporary art gallery – with a focus on secondary-market masterpieces and estate representation – and now leads Cinfinity and C1760.

About Maria Kreyn: Maria Kreyn is a visual artist, educated at the University of Chicago (in math and philosophy), and self-taught in painting. Her works have been exhibited in numerous galleries in the United States and Europe, and have traveled to multiple museums in China. Maria’s work has been featured in Vanity Fair, the Wall Street Journal, The Art Newspaper, The Financial Times, and many others. Maria’s painting ‘Alone Together’ features in and drives the plot of Shonda Rhimes’ ABC television show The Catch. Her public works feature a collection of 8 monumental paintings based on Shakespeare, commissioned by Andrew Lloyd Webber, now on permanent display in the lobby of London’s historic Theater Royal Drury Lane, open to the public daily. 

Reprising art historical conventions of the Baroque and Romantic periods, Maria’s paintings can be best described as a re-mix of familiar pictorial tropes and iconographies that communicate through a combination of allegory, masterfully rendered figures, and mysterious scenes which are neither of a specific time nor place. Kreyn’s compositions are not strictly traditional. While deriving their technical foundations from Old Masters works, she reframes these techniques and expands their pictorial vocabulary into a realm of stirring emotional narratives, unique personal histories, and surreal fictions. From a predominantly female, even androgynous, perspective, Kreyn tells a story of human intimacy and ceremony, investigating the liminal state of connection and detachment. https://mariakreyn.com/

The post C1760 hosts, “Influences of Time,” a multi artist show examining culture, geometry and time- on view through June 31 appeared first on NY UNDRESSED.

Founded by Director Marcelo Zimmler in 2014, Upsilon Gallery has office locations in New York, Miami and London by appointment only, and has been regularly holding highly successful physical and online exhibitions throughout the years. At Upsilon, Zimmler and his team have an unwavering commitment to rediscovering a roster of accomplished artists that have been forgotten or overlooked within a historical scope.  Ever evolving, the gallery continues to embrace new technological advancements key to the goal of encouraging new forms of interpretation for the novice and seasoned collector, inviting them not only to learn about art, but to experience it through a new and dynamic lens.

For their first brick and mortar location, Zimmler chose the Upper East Side, recognizing that the neighborhood is a true cornerstone for the art and design community. He wanted to create a contemporary space, providing a neutral stark white setting for the artwork on display and an approachable and friendly atmosphere for collectors and guests.

“Our vision for this new flagship gallery in the Upper East Side is to create an outstanding and unique home for our artists and our team, and a vibrant cultural destination in the heart of NYC,” said Marcelo Zimmler.

In their first exhibition, Upsilon Gallery will present a comprehensive look at the oeuvre of mid-career Italian-American artist Osvaldo Mariscotti from February 25^th – April 16th. The show will focus on the artist’s study of the symbol, both individually and as a group in the development of language. Select works to be showcased will include: Origins from 2020, oil on canvas (3 panels); Firenze from 2021, oil and enamel on canvas; Spar from 2021, bronze; Infinity from 2014, oil and enamel on wood; and Melody from 2016-2018, oil on canvas.

Mariscotti’s dedication to the interaction of form and color has led to a continued exploration of perception. He takes over the most basic elements of Suprematist art, the straight line and the square, a choice that reflects the emphasis he places on the shapes produced by man rather than those existing in nature. His works are very significant, made from the decomposition of figures such as the rectangle, which is then decomposed into its essential-colored lines on a black background. Mariscotti’s search puts him in the context of geometric conceptualism: that reality of thought that holds figuration as malaise and searches for synthesis, as a model to pursue. His art examines the “nonreality” and breaks it down into geometric shapes, to arrive at the development of a new code. He has exhibited his work in numerous solo and group exhibitions in prestigious institutions around the world such as the MIIT Museum, Turin; the Malzfabrik, Berlin; the Chianciano Museum of Art, Chianciano Terme; the Galata Museum, Genoa; the Officina delle Zattere, Venice; the European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM), Barcelona; Canova Museum, Possagno; and the Museum of Contemporary Art Giuseppe Sciortino, Monreale. In 2015, Mariscotti first participated in the 56th Venice Biennale with his now iconic Book of Color I.

Upsilon Gallery will boast a robust spring season featuring exhibitions by artists including Clyde Hopkins, Diet Sayler and Williard Boepple.

Upsilon Gallery is located at 23 East 67^th Street, New York NY 10065. Exhibition hours are Monday-Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm. If you are interested in checking out the exhibition, visitors are encouraged to call 646-476-4190 or email info@upsilongallery.com to schedule an exclusive tour. Visit www.upsilongallery.com  for further details.

1. As you’ve explored the symbol of Kaleidoscope, what has been found, in a few sentences.
   Kaleidoscope has to do with the ideas of beauty, pattern, and repetition, and we feel that those 3 elements summarize the show quite succinctly. Mariscotti makes use of symbols, both individually and collectively to explore one of the most overarching themes in his career, the passage of time. Time is represented by the artist with specific layouts of shape and color, which convey an idea of motion
   alluding to the natural state of time which exists in a continuum. Mariscotti interprets time by devising specific schemes of color and form, which convey the idea of motion alluding to the natural state of time which exists within a continuum.
2. Tell me about how one or a few works reflect on Kaleidescope.
   Kaleidoscope refers to pattern and repetition, and the artist uses those two means to represent the passage of time. Examples of this representation are: Origins, 2020; Firenze, 2021; and Melody, 2017.
   Origins includes one of Mariscotti’s most iconic patterns, three vertical bars of color joined through a horizontal connector to a larger block on the right. Here, the three bars on the left represent an initial
   state, which over time is affected by certain conditions to arrive at a conclusion or resulting state.
   Firenze on the other hand, displays a grid which breaks down a scene into constituted frames, allowing the viewer to traverse the canvas from one frame to the next in a dynamic, if not, narrative, or cinematic fashion. Finally, Melody displays horizontal rows of repeated shapes which create a sequence making reference to the idea of code and language.
3. Does your gallery have a specific goal?
   Yes, our goal is to present accomplished artists who have been overlooked and give them a second chance to notoriety on a new stage in the heart of NYC. Our mission is to rediscover late-career artists
   and artist estates whose works are part of a life-long journey of creation, have exhibited extensively in the past, yet been overlooked by recent art history, deserving another look within the canon. We also maintain an ongoing secondary market print program offering works by established artists, as well as publishing original editions by Osvaldo Mariscotti.
4. Why has the artist in this exhibit been overlooked?
   There are many reasons why artists can become overlooked by the art establishment. Some of it has to do with their personal efforts, maturity, initiatives, expectations, timing, luck, public taste, and critic
   reception. For any given time within an artist’s career there is seldom one reason, but a combination of a few. Aesthetics aside, we believe Mariscotti has hit a stride in his creative practice where he is
   successfully addressing collective formal and conceptual concerns in a meaningful and communicative way, both for the viewer and himself.
5. One of the images is titled, “Infinity.” What is the relationship between Infinity and Kaleidescope?
   Infinity is that which is boundless, endless, or larger than any number, and is often denoted by the infinity symbol. Much of Mariscotti’s work is conceived in 3-dimensional space, and as such evokes a sense of boundlessness which is also inherent in the concept of the kaleidoscope, defined in part by endless repetition.
6. Why did you decide to move to a brick-and-mortar location?
   For our first brick and mortar location, I chose the Upper East Side, recognizing that the neighborhood is a true cornerstone for the art and design community. I wanted to create a contemporary space,
   providing a neutral stark white setting for the artwork on display and an approachable and friendly atmosphere for collectors and guests. Our vision for this new flagship gallery is to create an outstanding
   and unique home for our artists and our team, and a vibrant cultural destination in the heart of NYC.

The post Upsilon Gallery Opens New Flagship Location on The Upper East Side appeared first on NY UNDRESSED.

Notable guests included: Vinnie Cammarata, Lana Madden, Justin Jannone, Liga Freimane, Penny Xing, Regina Kravitz, Nancy Pearson, Audrey Felli, Lizzie Asher, Mercedes de Guardiola, Brinkley Skye, Carmen D’Alessio, Nicole Noonan, Emma Snowdon-Jones, Thomas Farley, Dara Sowell, Jane Scher, Lieba Nesis, Asia Lee, Farzana Niemann, Gabrielle Hoffman, Lance Zakin, Dana Bai, Natacha Ross, Natalie Ross.

Chuck’s Vintage founder, Madeline Cammarata, was always about making people smile through clothing. Honoring her legacy with gifts from this timeless store will stretch the joy on with denim lovers in your life. Even those who like a gift that is not just your everyday department store ordinary will fall in love with a present from here.

In 2006, Madeline started Chuck’s Vintage, which overnight became a true American original. Her abundant collection became treasured wear for celebrities and business elites from Steve Jobs to famous musicians such as Dolly Parton, Robert Plant, Morrisey and more. From the famous to just pure classic style lovers, they have all at one point crossed the threshold of Chuck’s Vintage in the California hotspot shop – where even once a world-renowned denim archivist saw fit to entrust Madeline with millions of dollars’ worth of collectible denim that she proudly sold.

The new store’s showcase of vintage denim that must be seen to be believed. The blue jeans in the Upper East Side location will range from Strongholds found in the California Gold Rush mines to World War II-Era Levi’s, Lees, and Wranglers, as well as 1960’s ladies high-waisted and groovy deadstock Levi’s bells. Chuck’s will also showcase the founder’s sampling of vintage American workwear: rugged military and work boots, buttery leather bomber jackets, and soft, perfectly worn-in vintage 70’s rock tees. Classic American Cool.

Visit the flagship retail outlet to shop for time-honored clothing at 173 East 91st Street, Basement, New York, NY 10128.

About Chuck’s Vintage

Chuck’s Vintage was founded by GSFI former CEO Madeline Cammarata (fka Madeline Harmon), who hailed from an illustrious background in fashion. Her career began as a fashion model, where she was soon discovered by the iconic and provocative fashion photographer Helmut Newton, launching Cammarata to the runways of Europe.

Returning to the US, Madeline found a powerful niche in the high fashion world of denim, where she was instrumental in providing fabric development for powerful brands like 7 For All Mankind and provided thousands of pieces to celebrity and business elites from Steve Jobs to Morrisey and everywhere in between.

For more information, please visit https://chucksvintage.com/

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A multi-generational restaurant now owned and operated by father and son team, Steve and Eugene Slobodski, PJ Bernstein serves all the traditional dishes of an authentic Jewish deli.

Best sellers from the menu include:

• Homemade soups—the chicken stock for the deli’s bountiful soup menu is produced each morning in a vat with over 25 pounds of chicken bones, celery, and carrots which produce nearly 50 gallons of broth. The most amazing of which is the “Triple Delight” chicken soup—delicate, clear chicken consommé with matzah balls and noodles, and delicate ravioli-like kreplach filled with melt-in-your-mouth brisket and onions, a rarity in contemporary New York.  They also feature both cold and hot Russian borscht.
• PJ’s Famous New York Sandwiches are each served with a half-pound of meat and side of cole slaw and pickles, all served on a wide selection of Eli’s Famous Breads. The Cardiologist Special features hot pastrami, tongue, and chicken liver pate for those who have some serious hunger.
• PJ Bernstein Smorgasbord of Smoked Fish, including Nova Scotia, Whitefish, and Sturgeon served with bagels, cream cheese, lemons, and capers.

For the literary enthusiasts, continue reading for a more detailed version of the above summary!

PJ Bernstein may not be as well-known as its downtown compatriots—Katz’s and the Second Avenue Deli—but this Upper East Side Jewish Delicatessen and full-service restaurant—one of the few remaining authentic restaurants of its kind—has perhaps an even more storied history than its predecessors. PJ Bernstein has been a staple in its star-studded neighborhood since it first opened its doors in 1965. For Russian-born Alex Slobodski, this Jewish delicatessen was a reminder of home and a refuge from his working life as a cab driver. He took comfort in the aromas,and flavors of his favorite foods and the friendly atmosphere. He spent many evenings chatting with the owner, Mr. Bernstein, and brought his family there on his days off.

In 1983, Mr. Bernstein was looking to move in a different direction, and offered Mr. Slobodski,his most devoted customer, a chance to buy his favorite neighborhood spot. Slobodski took that chance and never looked back. He carried on the tradition of delicious, savory, appetizing food and a warm, caring atmosphere, and made it even better. And passed that passion and dedication onto his family: his son and grandson, Steve and Eugene Slobodski, carried on the tradition, adding a much-needed delivery service as well as an outdoor seating area.

PJ Bernstein’s continues to be a popular destination for locals and celebrities. Landy Hunt, has worked at the deli for 50 years, starting with the Bernsteins and staying on to maintain the deli’s traditions with the Slobodski family. Starting out as a dishwasher he worked his way through the ranks and became floor manager, and boy, does he have stories to tell! He served Lucille Ball corned-beef sandwiches and matzah ball soup nearly every day when she lived around the corner on East 70th Street. Liza Minelli was another regular, sitting at the counter with a corn muffin and coffee. Other stars including Mel Brooks and two James Bonds, Sean Connery and more recently Daniel Craig. New York Yankee Giancarlo Stanton also had an appetite for PJ’s towering pastrami sandwiches and homemade soups. Another regular notorious for his discerning appetite was “Hizzoner” Mayor Ed Koch.

Chef

Tommy Jedrzejezyk has led the kitchen at PJ Bernstein for more than 20 years. His unique preparations are based in years of experience as a chef in Germany and Poland. The moment they step inside, customers are hypnotized by his deli case specialties including stuffed cabbage, chicken liver pate, and homemade gefilte fish as well as classic cuts of mouth watering pastrami, corned beef, and turkey.

Menu ( Please click here for the full version.)

PJ Bernstein’s best sellers are their homemade soups—the chicken stock for the deli’s bountiful soup menu is produced each morning in a vat with over 25 pounds of chicken bones, celery, and carrots which produce nearly 50 gallons of broth. The most amazing of which is the “Triple Delight”chicken soup—delicate, clear chicken consommé with matzah balls and noodles, and delicate ravioli-like kreplach filled with melt-in-your-mouth brisket and onions, a rarity in contemporary New York. They also feature both cold and hot Russian borscht.

Traditional Favorites include unique specialties starting with the “Jewish Whopper,” a fried potato knish stuffed with pastrami and sauerkraut. For the whole table, the house-made pierogies are a perfect selection; one can request these handmade dumplings either boiled or fried, filled with fresh chopped brisket or potato and onions. Cheese blintzes are another sharable favorite, thin Russian-style crepes wrapped around a house blend of soft, ricotta-like cheese, sauteed and served with sour cream and a cherry compote. Smoked Fish Specials include whitefish salad, served with house bagel chips, Nova Scotia, served on a bagel with cream cheese, and Alaskan Sable, which is lightly cured and smoked.

PJ’s Famous New York Sandwiches are each served with a half-pound of meat and side of coleslaw and pickles, all served on a wide selection of Eli’s Famous Breads.

The Cardiologist Special features hot pastrami, tongue, and chicken liver pate for those who have some serious hunger. The Lucky Latke is an unusual sandwich, with tasty brisket or pastrami between two hot potato latkes. Dinner Specials include Beef Goulash, a cozy, rustic stew with chunks of brisket and served over egg noodles, Broiled Scottish Salmon with fresh vegetables or a baked potato, and a secret favorite standard, Two Hebrew National Jumbo Franks with a side of baked beans or French fries. The Catering and Party Menu is also perfect for organizing any events you may be planning in the coming summer months, providing options for gatherings of anywhere from 10–20 people. With a choice of classic salad options to start such as Potato, Macaroni, or Cucumber Salad, among others, customers can request from PJ’s Vegetable Platter, served with carrots, peppers, cauliflower, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, celery sticks, and house made onion dip; the Whitefish Platter served with an assortment of bagels, cream cheese, olives, Bermuda onions, tomatoes, and fresh lemon. Cold Cut Platters are prepared with three and a half to five pounds of select meats as well as Eli’s Bread. house dressing, and pickles. Lastly, PJ’s Famous Sandwich Platter comes with either 12 jumbo sandwiches and five pounds of a choice of side salad, and 20 Jumbo sandwiches and seven pounds of a choice of side salad.

Interior

PJ Bernstein’s entrance greets customers with a clean, accessible counter top and window showcasing their choice meats and other deli products and pastries. Lining the walls are framed photographs illustrating the famous clientele who frequent the deli including theDavidCopperfield, Marisa Tomei,andCuba Gooding, Jr. creating a familiar and warm ambience for the whole family to enjoy. Now available is a new outdoor patio dining lined with beautiful hanging plants and ample spacing.

Their address is 1215 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10021

Their phone number is (646) 692-4123

Hours every day are 10:00 am–8:30 pm

The Seating Capacity is 65 (indoor), 25 (outdoor)

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Tasca, which resides in the expansive Upper West Side space that was previously occupied by the Greek Tavern, Kefi, has been completely redesigned by a family team of Jay, Norisa, and Justin Espinal. At Tasca, the focus is onthe Iberian Peninsula in Spain, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico, a melting pot of Spanish-Caribbean flavors, showcasing how the flavors of the sea from the related cultures can work together in new and interesting ways. Seafood highlights from their menu include the Abadejo Al Ajo Arrerio—seared fresh cod, garbanzo beans, roasted garlic, and tomatoes—and the Codicia de Pescado y Marisco, mixed seafood with fennel, a lobster brandy reduction, and saffron banana rice. The sprawling multi-level space provides two more dining rooms downstairs which includes a wine room for special events.

The Michelin-recognized Kōyō focuses on Kaiseki cuisine, an elevated form of traditional Japanese washoku cuisine that is served as a multi-course meal and based on hyper-seasonal ingredients.  Kōyō’s menu by Executive Chef/Owner Jay Zheng highlights a seven-course tasting menu with an option to add supplemental dishes such as an Extended Nigiri course or an Uni tasting for an additional cost. While the menu changes seasonally, current highlights include Hassun (circular assortment of small bites meant to be eaten clockwise beginning from the left, consisting of botan ebi tartar with kaluga caviar, uni milk custard topped with hokkaido uni and yuba, kisu tempura with matcha salt and fresh Wakame with tosazu glee and crispy sawagani) and the grilled dish, Yakimono (now featuring tachiuo, a seasonal Japanese fish in a Sakiyo miso marinade, with grilled baby corn atop sweet corn miso.)

The Michelin-starred Sushi AMANEis an eight-seat sushi bar helmed by Executive Chef Tomoyuki Hayashi (Matsuiri, Sushi AZABU). At Sushi AMANE, Chef Hayashi has full reign to put creativity on display and has incredible surprises in store for customers likenama-yuba and Japanese uni with Kaluga caviar.  Only using wild fish from Japan and other countries around the world, Chef Hayashi’s omakase sushi experience is a progression that consists of four small dishes, nine Nigiri, tamago, hand roll, and miso soup and changes daily based on market availability. He seasons his rice specifically for each session using aged akazu vinegar. 

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At eighteen, he traveled to Le Bouveret, Switzerland where he attended Cesar Ritz College and studied hotel and restaurant management. After graduating, he went to Dubai for a year to work in the hotel industry. He then came to the United States to attend Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island where he earned his master’s in culinary arts. From there, Semaan moved to New York City where he began his career at Great Performances,a catering and events company managing the company’s large-scale events. He then took a management position with the Atlantic Grill, part of B.R. Guest hospitality. From there, he went to work at the Hilton Hotel in Times Square to serve as food and beverage director. During his tenure at Atlantic Grill, Semaan’s entrepreneurial spirit guided him to develop his own restaurant concept. He found the perfect location in the East Village and returned to his Lebanese roots with the opening of Balade Restaurant in 2010. “That was my mission,” said Semaan. “To introduce Lebanese cuisine to New Yorkers.” The restaurant has since become an East Village staple serving the neighborhood and destination clientele. 

Executive Chef: Chef Micheline Wakim was a home cook before she was recruited by Semaan to work as sous chef of Balade. Over time, Semaan trained her as she honed her cooking skills and leaned to re-imagine his family recipes passed down from generations. Wakim was promoted to executive chef and Omar Douad, a native of Jordan, joined the team as chef de cuisine. Douad brought his Middle Eastern background to round out the menu with more vegetarian choices and adding more traditionally served larger platters typical of Middle Eastern tradition.

Dinner can begin with a spread of savory, shareable plates called Mezze. Jwaneh are chargrilled chicken wings that are marinated for 48 hours with Balade proprietary spices and imported olive oil from Lebanon; Mouhmara, freshly-ground red peppers and walnuts topped with pomegranate; Makanek beef sausages flamed table side with fresh lemon juice.

Family-style platters like the Supreme Mixed Grill is served covered in Balade’s famous house-made bread and edged-open to reveal a medley of grass-fed beef kafta, lamb kabab, chicken tawook, and lamb chops served with chargrilled vegetables. The Samke Mechwiye is a whole grilled branzino, bone-in, marinated in lemon, olive oil and salt served with tahini dipping sauce. Djej Al Fahem is a half chicken marinated with their Balade’s signature recipe of fresh herbs and spices served with hand-cut fries.

Manakeesh, or Lebanese Pizza, is kneaded with fresh dough. Signature pie Lahme Baajin is crafted from house-made seasoned ground-lean beef, mixed with finely diced tomatoes and onions. Jebne is made from a combination of white cheeses and served with a side of tomato slices.

An alternative to Lebanese pizza is “Pita Pitza.” Created by Semaan, this kind of pizza yields a crispier crust. The Sultan El Shawarma is made with thinly-sliced marinated beef and roasted with onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, and topped off with a drizzle of tahini and a pinch of a spicy mixture called za’atar. 

Desserts

Ashta consists of “white pudding,” a rich cream traditionally made by repeatedly skimming the film that appears on the surface of boiled milk. The pudding is then coated with honey and topped with pistachio and fresh strawberries. Mouhallabie is a recipe handed down from his grandmother. It consists of a milk pudding topped with ground pistachios and orange blossom. Lebanese Ice Cream is available in pistachio and vanilla made from rose water. 

A well-curated wine list consists of mostly red and white wine imported from Lebanon, France and Italy.

Their beer selections come from Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Morocco. 

Design

The interior design reflects the culture of Lebanon adorned with circular cut pieces of wooden cedar trees and Arabesque tiles – all imported from Lebanon. Outdoor seating is offered with transparent partitions, picnic tables and chairs, and astro turf. Hardcover cookbooks line a top shelf above the outdoor dining area. 

Takeout and Delivery hours are Saturday and Sunday from 12pm – 12am and Monday through Friday from 5 pm to 12 am. Delivery platforms include Uber Eats, Caviar, Grubhub, Postmates, and Delivery.com

Balade offers catering. The catering menu can be viewed here.

Balade is located at 208 First Avenue, East Village, NY 10009

Their website address is www.Baladerestaurants.com.

Their phone number is 212.529.6868.

@baladenyc is their Instagram handle

Their hours of operation are
Monday-Friday 5pm-12am; Saturday and Sunday from 12pm-12am

Their Main Dining Room seats 60 and their Bar seats 7 people

They have 20 outdoor seats.

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Details about Meno – A Specialty Tea & Coffee House Recently Opened in the West Village

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Directed and produced by award-winning filmmaker and human rights activist, Sonia Nassery Cole, the film follows the story of Massoud, a young man who embarks on a perilous migration from Afghanistan through the Middle East and Europe, accompanied by a pregnant doctor and a wise elder.

“I am so touched that we are completely sold out tonight, and so many noble and influential guests braced the New York City rain to attend and see this important film to better understand the current refugee crisis,” said Sonia Nassery Cole, Director, I AM YOU. “Refugees do not have a choice and must flee their homelands to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Whether due to climate change, war, or political strife, anyone at any time could become a refugee and so the title ‘I AM YOU’ resonates on a global scale. This could be you. It brought me to tears to see my audience of 300+ in tears as they gave the film a standing ovation. That showed me that films like this are necessary as they hit the core of humanity.”

Following the screening, a Q&A was held with the director and cast, and moderated by Afghanistan’s most famous musical artist and activist Aryana Sayeed. Important topics were discussed, such as how the film came about. Sonia Nassery Cole shared that the film came to her through repeated messages from a boy in Germany who was desperate to tell his story.

Then, a limited print of the most famous piece of photojournalism ever created – “Afghan Girl” kindly donated and shot by legendary photographer Steve McCurry, was displayed to the audience and auctioned by Sotheby’s VP Michael Macaulay. All proceeds to benefit Afghanistan World Foundation and UNICEF USA in support of refugees in need.

As guests then moved into the after party, they were treated to three special performances. First by Tabla player and DJ Mariam Bahawdory who set the tone, followed by performances by Farah Saraj – the vocalist of the original soundtrack on I AM YOU. The grand finale was by internationally known Afghan superstar Aryana Sayeed, whose music brought everyone to the dance floor.

Guests in attendance included:

From the film: Cast – Ali Pinar (Arsalan), Cansu Tosun (Nazoo), Damla Sönmez (Aisha), Emre Cetinkaya (Masoud), Hakan Aydin (Kamal); director and producer Sonia Nassery Cole, producers Chris Cole, Lance Stuart; executive producers Halima Aden and Federico Pignatelli.

Others in attendance: Cynthia Rowley, Carol Alt, Marla Maples, Nicole Miller, Frederique Van Der Wal, Eric & Sandra Ripert, Caroline Day (The Goldfinch), Krystal Joy Brown (Hamilton), Jonathan Cheban, Keandra, Hunter McGrady, Gregg Bello, Leon Robinson, Alex Lundqvist, Jaime Cepero, Kaliegh Garris, Kea Ho, Coco Mitchell, Dale Moss, Dan O’Brien, Jamee & Peter Gregory, Zozibini Tunzi, Donna D’Cruz, George Wayne, Ben Watts, and Timo Weiland.

ABOUT SONIA NASSERY COLE, DIRECTOR

Sonia returned to the director’s chair to shoot “I AM YOU” after her previous feature film & official submission for the Academy Awards “The Black Tulip”, garnered numerous international accolades as well as dramatic headlines in The New York Times. Militants located her leading actress and severed her feet for being involved in an anti-Taliban narrative. But Ms. Cole, an Afghan refugee herself, returned to her homeland despite the life-threatening risks involved in filming in her war-torn country, in the pursuit of sharing the human experience through the art of film. Sonia is also an author, humanitarian and activist who founded Afghanistan World Foundation in 2002 after speaking in front of Congress with the support of President Ronald Reagan. She is the recipient of a “Congressional Recognition” award, “Afghan American Sisterhood Award,” and the “UN Women Together Award”. She also received the “Freedom to Write” Award from PEN Center USA.

ABOUT HALIMA ADEN, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

Halima Aden is the 22-year-old Somali-American who has taken the fashion world by storm. After being the first contestant to compete in the Miss Minnesota USA pageant wearing a hijab and burkini for the swimsuit competition, she was signed by IMG Models for worldwide representation She has walked the runway for brands such as Alberta Ferretti, Dolce & Gabbana, Max Mara and Yeezy. In her short modeling career, Halima has graced the cover of over a dozen major fashion magazines. She made headlines last year by wearing a burkini on the pages of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, a first for the publication. She was named an official UNICEF Ambassador following her TED Talk at Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, Africa. This is the refugee camp where Halima was born and lived for the first seven years of her life and also where she was once on the receiving end of the services UNICEF provides children in need around the world.

ABOUT PIER59 STUDIOS

Founded in 1995 by Federico Pignatelli and his Art and Fashion Group Corporation, Pier59 Studios is an 110,000 square-foot premier photography and multimedia studio located at Chelsea Piers in New York City. As the largest photography facility and multimedia single Studio complex in the World, with over 2500 advertising campaigns produced yearly, the space is equipped with state of the art technology, including AR and VR, to accommodate any needs of video-photographers, designers, advertising agencies and television and film production companies. Pier59 Studios features 11 column-free studio spaces, including a 6,500 square-foot sound stage constructed for live performances, special events, video and commercial projects. Nine studios are naturally lit and contain retractable walls to allow for unparalleled space modularity in Manhattan. For more information on Pier59 Studios, please visit https://www.pier59studios.com/. 

The post “I AM YOU” PREMIERES AT PIER59 STUDIOS, NYC appeared first on NY UNDRESSED.

The restaurant is owned by the husband and wife duo Linda Mahkovec and Ruhel Amin who have cut their teeth in the culinary world for the last three decades. They met at the Symphony Café in Manhattan where Ruhel quickly became a top waiter, hosting the likes of Bob Dylan, Liza Minelli and David Letterman. After the pair met, they dove into the culinary world to try to make this dream a reality. Ruhel worked at the Symphony and Sheraton Hotel for an eight-year tenure. After he finished his degree at Hunter, he opened his first restaurant on the East Side, Tripti Indian Restaurant. In 2017, after working in the corporate world he opened two restaurants in Harlem with partners Ajmal Hussain and Salim Rahman known as Mumbai Masala and River Thai. Now Ruhel and his wife Linda have brought the dream of opening their own restaurant to life with Masti Indian Grill & Chaat Bar.

Chef Jabber’sculinary roots span from his home in Bangladesh to his tenure in England where he worked at Nabab Tadoori, Tamarind on the Isle of Wright, honing his craft before working at the aforementioned Famous Curry Bazaar.

Menu highlights include:

•     Starters like Achari Guchi Tikka, a very traditional dish of pickled mushrooms; Chapli, expertly spiced minced lamb patties with green chilies; and Kurkuri Bhindi, crispy okra with lemon and chaat masala.

•     Elevated forms of Indian street food include Chaatwali Galli offerings like Bhel Puri that is beautifully presented in a cylindrical tower with puffed rice, onions, potatoes, chutneys, tamarin and savory crunchies on top for a surprisingly textured bite. The Pao Bhaji, a popular street food in Bombay, is highlighted as well and made with mashed tomatoes, cauliflower and potatoes, served with fluffy Pao bread hot from the oven. All Chaats are prepared atop the restaurant’s Chaat bar for diners to view. 

•    Curries takes cues from The Famous Curry Bazar with a myriad of options ranging from chicken, lamb, bone-in goat, to shrimp, vegetables, and paneer. These options can be paired withthe favorite Brick Lane Curry, an onion tomato curry; Phall, an intensely spicy British curry with a blend of chilies; Bhuna, a thick and hearty curry with onions, garlic and fresh coriander; Madras, a hot coconut curry with dry red chilies and curry leaves; Karahi, a wok tossed curry with onions, bell pepper and fenugreek; and Balti, a wok tossed curry with tomatoes, mushrooms, fennel, and garam masala. 

•    Oh! Calcutta Chef’s Specials include Jhinga Luchi, creamy shrimp with tomatoes and curry leaves; Tangra Chili Chicken with green chilies, onions, bell peppers and a dark soy sauce; Ghugni with curried yellow peas, turmeric, cumin and fresh coriander; and Kosha Mangsho, bone-in goat curry with potatoes and fresh coriander.

The restaurant also features a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes as well as skewers from an on-site tandoor oven and naan breads like Chili Onion; Habanero Cheese; and Butter Paneer. 

The drink menu includes a variety of teas like traditional chai and a specialty mocktail menu, launching soon.

Masti’s interior was designed by Mahkovec. Inviting and warm, Masti Indian Grill & Chaat Bar features a quaint dining room with a small bar anchored in front with jars of different Indian spices showcased above. A beautiful image of a woman picking red chili peppers is spotlighted on the back wall. Tables and chairs are scattered throughout the space and specialty floral upholstered chairs can be found at the center of the restaurant for a more lounge style aesthetic. Brown leather banquettes line the perimeter, gorgeous chandeliers are hung above for a golden glow and famous Indian film posters adorn the other walls.

Visit Masti online at: http://mastinyc.com

Their address is: 184 Havemeyer Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Their phone number is: 718-599-1516

Follow them on Instagram @mastinyc

They are open for lunch Monday through Sunday 12pm-3pm.

They serve diner from 4:30 – 10 pm Monday through Thursday and are open until 10:30 on Friday and Saturday.

Their total seating capacity is 36 and their bar seating is 4.

The post Masti, the new Indian Grill and Chaat Bar in Williamsburg appeared first on NY UNDRESSED.

Executive Chef German “Primo” Angelo has been at the helm of the Bella Luna kitchen for over a decade and follows in the footsteps of his mentor, original Bella Luna chef of 25 years, Tuscany-born Mario Zimbelli. Chef Angelo’s menu, which is offered for lunch and dinner, commences with an assortment of antipasti with a creamy and flavorful Polenta topped with a hearty Bolognese sauce; and an expertly fine sliced Beef Carpaccio that is adorned with arugula, capers, parmesan, olive oil and lemon.

• Off-The-Menu: Specialty pies include a play on a New York classic, the Smoked Salmon pizza combines smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers and slices of red onion.
• Namesake Signature: The Bella Luna pizza has an enticing blend of wild mushroom, onion and fontina, drizzled in decadent, umami truffle oil over a perfectly crisped crust.
• Meat-Lovers: Made with a luxurious lamb ragu, Italian hot peppers and spices is the satisfying Spicy Lamb pizza.
• Brunch: Sweet fanatics will indulge in the Strawberry Nutella pizzamade with ricotta and basil. 

Other menu highlights that have attracted long-time regulars and new diners alike are:

• The savory Lobster Ravioli, dressed in a rich, cream sauce and fresh dill.
• Braised Lamb Shank, slow cooked and undeniably tender, served with creamy mashed potatoes.

Salads start with a traditional Sicilian Salad, comprised of fennel, radicchio, lettuce, capers, olives, parmesan, olive oil and lemon; and the Bella Luna Salad made with mixed greens, roasted red peppers, capers, olives and mozzarella for a sweet and salty mouthful.

Bella Luna’s Brick Oven Pizza is not-to-be-missed with perfectly crisped crust and unique combinations culminating into some of the best Brick Oven Pizza in the area with everything from savory to sweet pies. While they do offer the traditional Marinara, White and Vegetarian, guests can enjoy a number of other more adventurous selections including the Bella Luna with a tantalizing blend of wild mushroom, onion and fontina, all beautifully drizzled in decadent truffle oil. The Spicy Lamb pizza is made with a luxurious lamb ragu, Italian hot peppers and an array of spices. Specialty pizzas include Smoked Salmon, which combines smoked salmon and cream cheese topped with capers and slices of red onion for a savory slice.

Pastas spotlighted include crowd favorite Linguini with Homemade Meatballs. A rich Fettucine Alfredo features fresh white and spinach pasta with mushrooms and pools of creamy alfredo sauce. Specialty pastas are offered with their signature Linguini Bella Luna with fresh linguini, shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari swimming in a light and flavor packed tomato sauce. They also have a savory Lobster Ravioli dressed in a cream sauce and fresh dill.

Entrées come in the form of Braised Lamb Shank, slow cooked and undeniably tender, served with creamy mashed potatoes; and flaky Filet of Branzini with white wine, lemon, capers and spinach.

A $22 Three-Course Prix Fixe Menu is available every day from noon-6 p.m. and includes an appetizer, entrée, and dessert, with combinations such as Bruschetta, Ravioli Basilico with ricotta cheese filling, tomato sauce and basil, and a choice of chocolate, French vanilla or strawberry ice cream.

The Children’s Menu features a Build Your Pasta selection, where kids can choose from an array of different types of pasta and pick their own sauce for a creativity-infused meal.

Weekend Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Selections include the Bella Luna Omelette with mushroom, fontina and onion; Garden Frittata with yellow squash, zucchini, tomato, eggplant and marinara sauce on the side; and a Chicken Pesto Panini with chicken, sundried tomatoes and mozzarella, served with French fries.

Two breakfast pizzas are also provided with the Bacon and Egg and the sweet tooth lovers Strawberry Nutella with ricotta, strawberry and basil.

The dishes served at Bella Luna can be altered for vegetarians.

A beautifully curated wine list from manager Angela Noll can be found at the restaurant with every wine by the glass under $15. The Italian focused selection, which is offered by the glass or bottle, features vegan, biodynamic and organic wines. Choices include a sancerre from Domaine de la Pauline, Loire, France; a Super Tuscan IGT from Monte Bernardi ‘Gypsy Girl’ Tuscany, Ital; and a primitivo from A Mano, Puglia Italy. They also provide a number of global and domestic beers including Peroni and Moretti La Rossa.

For a sweet finish to the meal guests can enjoy the housemade light and airy Tiramisu or selection of gelatos with flavors such as pistachio and hazelnut.

The Upper West Side space was built in 1893 and has had many transformations before becoming Bella Luna today. It previously served as a general market in the 1890s and a speakeasy/restaurant by the late William Pogue during and after Prohibition, from 1933 until 1968. In the 1990’s the space was a flower shop, which was known as the Secret Garden. Unbeknownst to the Bella Luna team, a mural of Central Park in autumn, believed to be painted in the 1930s, was uncovered during the renovations and was restored by American artist Mark Rutkoski.

The space was then re-designed by Daniel Lee of QBIK Construction to create an inviting and rustic feel. Leather banquettes are found flanking the left side, and mahogany tabletops and wrought-iron table bases by Italian artist Arturo Di Modica, who famously created and installed the Charging Bull in front of the New York Stock Exchange, are found scattered throughout the restaurant. Six marble eggshell chandeliers hang from the ceiling, emitting a golden-hued glow and an exposed brick wall serves as the backdrop to the bar, showcasing the selection of wines.

In-house delivery is available, offering the fastest delivery on the Upper West Side with 10% off every order placed through the website. The restaurant is also on GrubHub and Seamless, and available for catering and take-out.

Bella Luna is located at 574 Columbus Avenue between 87th and 88th streets. Their phone number is 212-877-2267.

Click here for their Website!

Find them on Instagram: @bellalunanyc

Their total seating capacity is 65 and 6 at the bar. For those looking to enjoy a slice while watching the snow fall, Bella Luna features an outdoor enclosed dining area for the winter. 16 can sit outside in the fall and winter and 32 in the spring and summer.

Their hours are:

Lunch: Mon. – Sun. 12pm-4pm

Dinner: Sun. – Thurs. 4pm – 10pm

Fri. & Sat. 3pm – 10:30pm

Brunch: Sat. & Sun. 11:30am – 3pm (In addition to the reuglar menu)

The post Bella Luna: An Italian Neighborhood Treat on the Upper West Side appeared first on NY UNDRESSED.