CHEZ MATE
The newly opened Chez Fifi in the UES is a dual-story Parisian bistro from brothers David and Joshua Foulquier, the co-creators of the Michelin-starred Sushi Noz. Housed in a quaint townhouse, the French eatery serves bistro-inspired classics from chef Zack Zeidman, but with a hint of coastal Spain. Dishes are elegant and soothing; think foie gras terrine maison, deviled crab baked San Sebastian style, filet mignon au poivre, and wild dover sole a la plancha. Pair with an entry from the luxe reserve wine list, or a martini made with Roquefort-washed vodka, sake, and olive brine. After enjoying dinner on the ground-floor dining room, be sure to grab a nightcap in the upstairs cocktail saloon.
140 E 74th Street, chezfifinyc.com
SAVOR THE SHOW
show at this French-Japanese fusion tasting menu by Chef Yuu Shimano, which appears to be well on its way to a second Michelin star. After a couple exquisite welcome bites and a glass of champagne, a curtain is whisked open and guests are introduced to the team of chefs who will prepare their meal. The kitchen is a stage, and from the 18-seat tasting counter, diners glimpse how dishes like Japanese spiny lobster served in its shell with rich sea urchin sauce and Shimano’s signature duck en croute – the savory cre scendo of the meal in a beautiful pie shell – come together. Pastry Chef Masaki Takahashi concludes with delightful, ethereal desserts that won’t weigh you down.
55 Nassau Avenue #1A, Brooklyn, yuunewyork.com
ACUPUNCTURE, ELEVATED
We’ve all heard of acupuncture and infrared saunas, but what about combining the healing powers of both simultaneously? The ORA Method is a unique approach, pairing ancient Chinese medicine traditions of acupuncture to balance the body’s energy, with red light therapy to boost cellular health and mood while laying on a cozy heated bed listening to calming music or a guided meditation. You’re lulled into a deep state of relaxation as stress melts away, and the results have a compound effect with repeat visits. Skilled practitioners study your pulse and tongue, and learn more about your lifestyle before determining the best acupressure points to stimulate, and don’t forget a cup of herbal tea on your way out.
9 E 4th Street and 1114 Madison Avenue, oraspace.com
GUA SHA GLOW-UP
Naturopathica just launched a brand new caffeine and peptide gua sha facial across all Naturopathica Spas – including two New York locations at Tribeca at Nexus Club (100 Church Street, 7th Floor) and The Chatwal Hotel (130 West 44th Street). This hourlong treatment features a gentle sculpting lymphatic massage with stainless steel gua sha and soothing carrot seed facial oil, followed by application of new caffeine and peptide serums for the eyes, face and neck. A manuka honey peel off mask locks in hydration while your therapist indulges you with a manuka honey cream hand and arm massage. It’s a great facial for all skin types for an instant lift and glow.
naturopathica.com/pages/spa-and-healing center
YOU’RE ON THE LIST
New York’s new members-only club overlooking Bryant Park, Branch is located on the sixth floor of the boutique Park Terrace Hotel, with a diverse membership pool of well-traveled locals and in-the-know visitors, including leaders and creative thinkers in arts and entertainment. The club features an expansive indoor and outdoor terrace, jewel-toned designer furnishings, botanically inspired cocktails, and music program by DJ Jez Pereira. Park Terrace Hotel guests receive access to the members-only club while members get preferred rates at the hotel and local businesses, along with access to the hotel’s sauna and fitness center. Programming will include guest speakers, live music, literary clubs, wine tastings, and more.
18 W 40th Street, branchnewyork.com