Fashion forward elegance opens on Grand Street in SoHo. After the closing of Yohji Yamamoto’s shop, I was awaiting what store would open next that could possibly fill the shoes of the iconic Yamamoto.  From the moment you walk into this vast white space and lie back on the shop’s focal point hammock… yes, a hammock,  I was hooked. As an admirer of Wang’s, I was delighted that he selected this space for his flagship location featuring both men’s and women’s apparel.   Boots, shoes, totes, clutches, angular black jackets and sheath spring dresses adorn the space. Fashion plates from the First Lady to Kate Moss are fans.

Former apprentice pattern-maker for top designers, such as her father Henry, Christina has recently opened her flagship shop in the trendy neighborhood of Tribeca… just in time for the Tribeca Film Festival I might add!  For those of you that have shopped at Calypso, you’re already familiar with her line of casual wear.  Her collection appeals to a wide variety of tastes… from working women to mothers who want chic casual clothing.  I especially like the ease of packing her pieces in a carry-on bag for a weekend jaunt to the Hamptons.  I recently purchased her gray pants and a billowy striped top.  Christina has designed three different concepts… solid, striped and tie dye.  I like how she’s defined that a perfect t-shirt should be “basic, timeless and clean in lines.”  

Hotoveli is the answer for the seasoned urban shopper who prefers innovative fashion. Bare brick and lit concrete walls create the club-like feeling of this West Village store. Hotoveli’s chic high-end styles are imported from Italian, French and British designers such as Nistri, Vivienne Westwood, and Alexander McQueen.  The cutting edge designs, ranging from bomber jackets to evening wear, are offered for both men and women… accessories are fabulous too; I saw an amazing pair of ankle-high suede boots that I couldn’t resist trying on! Their sister shop, Irma (special to me since it’s my mother’s name) is another shop to visit when browsing along Bleecker Street.

Avant-garde looks at approachable prices.  New to the Meatpacking District, Improvd has moved into the former space of designer Helmut Lang.  Designer Valentino Vettori is upfront with his love of using only earthy neutrals with edgy details. Black, lilac, gray, nudes and white frame the palette for his collection. Most of the dresses are silk charmeuse… fabrics easily roll for packing. Vettori’s mantra is “focus on detail.’’  And that is what he has accomplished, from the décor of the store, to the details in each piece of clothing.  When you enter you might ask yourself… ‘Is this an installation?  Is this art?’  Then you soon realize that Improvd showcases an affordable couture line for the fashion-minded minimalist.  How perfect that Vettori’s art-like spirit will complement the new home of the Whitney Museum that will soon be across the street.

When one door closes, another one opens. Such was the case with Blue Tree owner/actress Phoebe Cates, wife of actor Kevin Kline. Cates opened her eclectic Upper Eastside boutique when one of her favorite stores, Penny Whistle closed. Her shop is an ever-changing and ever-interesting collection of clothing and accessories for men, women and children. In addition to apparel, Blue Tree carries a jewelry collection, and specialty gifts such as perfume and candles. This museum-like store is the type of boutique where you’ll always leave with a purchase. The other day I bought a few of their fragrant candles, and I plan to return to buy one of their Provo scarves. The significance of the name Blue Tree is that a blue tree would be out of place in a forest… and Cates believes her store is out of place on the UES. he New York Times said that “Blue Tree is a version of Elizabeth Street for the Carnegie Hill crowd.”

Italian born Fabrizio Giannone left his homeland, Italy, in search of rare and exquisite emeralds. He settled in Brazil, home to the world’s most beautiful gemstones. Giannone has transformed his gift of nature-made pieces into one-of-a-kind designs of art for women. His creations blend Italian elegance with the whimsical aura of Brazil. His collection showcases rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces. Giannone creates sophisticated shapes, colors and stones… always using natural materials in each of his pieces. I have to admit that my Italian heritage drew me into this Upper Eastside shop.

After years of designing for fashion forward women, Mizrahi reluctantly decided to open his first boutique on the Upper Eastside… one with a relaxed Madison Avenue vibe. And where else but NYC would Brooklyn-born Mizrahi choose to open a shop entirely designed by himself. He now agrees that having all of his collections in one place was a good move. The store carries his ready-to-wear sportswear, cocktail attire, accessories and custom couture. Accessories include shoes, bags, jewelry, and even a line of pillows. Many of us know him as a TV personality, but few realize that Mizrahi creates costumes for theater, movies and opera. I had the privilege of watching him narrate this past season’s performance of Peter and the Wolf at the Guggenheim. His commanding voice and humor captivated the audience. Besides being gifted as a designer, I was happy to hear he’s a die-hard Yankee fan!

Named for Paris artists’ mecca, Montmartre is a melting pot of contemporary fashion designs, featuring current classics and ahead-of-the-curve trends. Clothing ranges from casual shorts to formal dresses. Montmartre is a shop with uptown charm and a downtown edge. Its array of designers include some of my picks… Phillip Lim and Rebecca Taylor. The other day I purchased a reasonably priced lavender and black dress that I can roll up in my carry-on… a line called Papillion Blanc. Finishing touches include an assortment of belts, bracelets, rings shoes and bags. The “Right Bank”… is right here on the Upper Westside!

Bianca is the charming counterpart to its sister restaurant, Celeste, on the Upper West Side.  The intimate  and romantic atmosphere of Bianca reminds me of dining at my Italian Grandmother’s home.  Walls are white, woods brightly colored, and the exposed brick walls create a homey feel in this East Village trattoria.  A great spot for a weekday date… not a place to dine with a large group. The menu is comprised of delicious northern Italian fare. Start with their Gnocco Fritters…puffed dough rectangles with imported cold cuts and stracchino cheese.   I recommend all the pasta dishes… a favorite is the Emilia-Romagna Lasagna with Bechamel and Meat Ragu Sauce.  Bianca hits the mark… warm, classy, affordable and freshly prepared cuisine.

One of the city’s most anticipated restaurant re-openings.  Restaurateur Gabriel Stulman  (also owner of Jeffrey’s Grocery and Joseph Leonard) greeted me at the door the other night, as he does to all newcomers and regulars, beaming with the restored completion of his historic 60 year old West Village landmark. The comfortable décor and lighting, and the 1917 bar with its seamless extension won me over.  With all the renovations, Stulman still managed to keep the clubhouse feel of Fedora. The cocktails are superb… try the Louisa May Alcott… a fitting name. The food is a little bit Asian, a little bit French. The Steak Tartare and the Salad with Rock and Avocado were my picks for the evening.  Since the reopening, Fedora is second to none.  “Hats” off to Stulman on another success!

As the French would say, ‘Voila!’ Kudos to celebrated owner Francois Latapie (restaurateur behind La Goulue) for the opening of his modern day interpretation of a traditional French bouchon.  Although I usually try to highlight only one restaurant in each ‘hood in our monthly editions, I was drawn to another West Village spot to write about this month. Upon entering Lyon, I  was immediately fond of the casual old world feel that was enhanced with heavy wood-paneled walls, warm sconces and red gingham napkins. Chef Leahy served our table authentic Lyonnais food.  We sampled the charcuterie plate, the diver scallops, smashed fingerling potatoes and topped the evening off with Szechuan pepper ice cream. All the selections were impressive! Celebrity buzz is that Sarah Jessica Parker (SJP) frequents this haunt since she lives nearby.  I predict that Lyon Bouche Modern will be a neighborhood mainstay.

Small town America makes it big in the dining scene! Vinegar Hill House is a mom and pop restaurant.  The owners not only built the restaurant and cook the food, but they live in a lovely carriage house out back!  The restaurant is named for its neighborhood… a gentrified area of Belgium blocked streets, lining the Brooklyn Navy Yard, just north of DUMBO.  My date and I enjoyed rambling along the adjacent streets, viewing the many artists working in their garages. The food and ambiance are a perfect match in this setting. The 40-seat space is warm and cozy. It reminded me of another favorite, Freemans, on the Lower East side.  I wasn’t’ surprised to find out that the seasonal American cuisine is prepared by a former Freemans chef!  The menu usually consists of 5 appetizers and 4 entrees. I highly recommend the Fennel Salad, Waffle Pork Chop, and topping the meal off with a cookie plate that’s meant to be shared!  

A runway-like entrance, glass walls showcasing A Voce’s 7,500-bottle collection, and sweeping views of Central Park create a stunning stark modern backdrop for the second A Voce to grace this city. Former Chicago chef, Missy Robbins (a favorite of President Obama’s), creates rustic Italian food with old world preparations in this Columbus Circle setting. Robbins’ contemporary Italian cuisine is inspired by seasonal simplicity. I’ve eaten in both the elevated sleek front bar, as well as the majestic dining room. Favorites are the Bisteca with Creamy Polenta and Mezzaluna Ravioli. For dessert… the Formaggi and Ricotta Crepes get my vote. A Voce’s stylish surroundings set the tone for both a business dinner, or an evening out with friends.

Cape Cod meets the Upper West Side. This seafood-driven tavern is the creation of self-taught, Greek American chef, Michal Psilakis. Fish Tag is a welcome addition to the UWS… a perfect neighborhood hangout. An almost overwhelming menu of over 60 items, the food is a Mediterranean mix of Italian, Spanish, Middle Eastern and, of course, Greek. Both small and large dishes are suited for sharing. The Tuna Crostini and Branzino are my top choices. The menu items are designed to pair with a variety of beer and wine selections. For those dining solo… you’ll feel comfortable sitting on a stool at one of the three bars. The restaurant was named for the fish tags that come with whole fishes delivered to restaurants. I think I’m getting ‘hooked’ on Fish Tag.

A newly opened osteria and wine bar on the Upper West Side from the old Irving Mill team. Chef Andrew Kraft brings a spin on classic Italian… he describes the fare as “reimagined and retwisted.” We sampled the wood-oven pizzas, roasted chicken and handmade pastas… all superb. Small plates are their specialty; don’t miss the Bruscetta and Risotto Balls! This bi-level space is comprised of a downstairs wine bar and a second floor dining room. An outdoor patio is in the works. Pricing is affordable – nothing on the menu topped $20. Owner/manager AJ was attentive and proud of his team’s accomplishment. Osteria Cotta hits the mark in each category… great vibe, décor, service and food.

Oak, oak, and more oak. For this brand new spot in the old Senor Swanky’s, improvements were not taken lightly. The new Irish owners have taken the essence of an old school English bar but with a sophisticated, high-end touch. When you walk in, you are met with a sprawling bar from left to right, and top to bottom. Large oak columns and walls offer the feel of brandy and cigars, but you won’t find any of the smoke in this place… nor will you find the plethora of college students you normally find in this neighborhood. Staff is friendly, drinks are serious and prices are what one would expect. My new Greenwich Village destination!

Step back in time to the bygone era of the 1920s supper club. Sure, I’d call it swanky… and I felt like I should have feathers in my hair. I’d also say it looks like it’s out of a scene from Bugsy or any other mobster movie starring Pacino or DeNiro. But I feel right at home in this Meatpacking District hot spot that used to be… well of course, a legendary supper club called Nell’s. The owners wanted to preserve the history with the design itself, as well as the entertainment. Expect jazz and blues. The past is gone but not forgotten. Like your own little glamorous time machine!

When you’re looking for a drink… go to the drink! But don’t forget to bring your first mate to this nautically themed casual bar over the bridge in Brooklyn. Don’t blink as you walk passed its address, as it’s not easy to spot. But once you stop in, you’ll be glad you did. What’s The Drink’s drink special? Punch! In all different flavors with nautical names like The Perfect Storm and The Charter. So get all hands on deck and head on over for a casual evening with friends!

Locals invade a tourist-haven. Another hard-to-find speakeasy, prepare to have a bespoke cocktail while surrounded by the ‘pretty people’ of NYC that are as wise as you to venture to get in on a weekend. The atmosphere is a mix of gothic, rock and roll, and baroque. What a mix that is! Low lighting, comfortable booths, graffiti art… grab one of the drinks from the menu, or just tell the bartender some ingredients and have him/her mix you something artfully delicious! Don’t expect spaghetti at this Little Italy nightspot.

On April 7, between 5:30pm and 8:45pm at Café 2, DJ Citizen Kane will entertain at MoMA Nights. DJ Kane is or has been a regular at Apt, Love, Cielo and Strobe Lodgeo loft parties… remember these parties go on only the first Thursday of the month!

If you love comedy, this is a great place to start – known as the ‘longest running comedy showcase in the nation.’ The Comic Strip has been at the beginnings of many a comedian’s career, and continues to attract talent, both famous and emerging. Alumni include Jerry Seinfeld and Chris Rock to name a few… Each night you will find a great line up, especially the likes of Neal Brennan and Chuck Nice, plus many more. It must be noted that Open Mic happens on Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:30… if you want to scout out the next up and coming talent!

Sing into Spring Festival is featured at Dizzy’s Club! And no better way to ring in the spring than with cool jazz and a festival of enormous talent. Throughout April, the club will feature jazz performers such as The Three Cohens, Phil Woods Quintet, Wycliffe Gordon, Shelly Berg and Bucky Pizzarelli, to name just a few! Check out the impressive list of acts for your perfect night of Jazz at Dizzy’s! Dates throughout April.

They call themselves the ‘Best Damn Sports Bar’ and… and I must say, it is a pretty happening spot in Murray Hill! Sports is the order of the day at this bar, so be prepared to either be a fan or become one! They feature great draft beers, and cheap depending on the night… $1, $2 beers, and for Kick Off Weekends they offer $4 domestic beers and well drinks until 9pm! Plus they feature great microbrews each month. There is always something going on in sports and at this great neighborhood bar!

A riveting drama where consequences unfold due to a medical miracle. Blind since birth, the play depicts the transformation of Molly Sweeny from a lonely woman who has never seen her face. The privacy of her blindness is assaulted when her husband enlists a star surgeon to restore her sight. When the bandages come off, a remarked revelation occurs within each character… Molly, her husband and the surgeon. This compelling piece of theater examines the lives of three characters through brilliant successions of monologues, delivered under the direction of Tony Award winner, Brian Friel. These thought-provoking monologues ask us to make similar observances of ourselves. Molly Sweeny is a play that audiences will keep thinking about when it is over. Extended through April 10

My Girlfriends’ Boyfriend is a new comedy written by and starring Mike Birbiglia. The play marks Mike’s return to New York stage after his acclaimed Off-Broadway production of Sleepwalk with Me…. a play that I saw three times! In My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend, Mike shares a lifetime of romantic blunders that most adults would spend a lifetime trying to forget! On his painful and honest journey he struggles to find a reason for love. In this cynically optimistic piece about love, Birbiglia states it’s actually a “love letter to love.” Funny and uplifting, Mike had my friends and I leaving the theater cheering as we watched a man’s quest to find happiness while remaining true to himself. Through May 16

An emotional thriller by fast-rising playwright Sharr White, under the direction of Joe Mantello. Just as Juliana’s (played by Emmy Award winner Laurie Metcalf) research leads to a potential breakthrough in neurological medicine, her life takes a drastic turn while at a lecture to colleagues at an exclusive beach resort on Cape Cod. While at the conference Juliana observes a young woman in a yellow bikini amidst the sea of business suits. The mystery quickly unravels as evidence, truth and memories collide in this seaside setting. Sharr’s work is clever, heart-breaking and exquisitely written. I marveled at this psychological thriller as the actors jump between various vignettes. Through April 24

Emerging playwright, Mona Mansour’s Urge for Going, is a realistic portrayal of life within a Lebanese refugee camp, and the desperate escape of a 17 year old young girl from this small and impoverished world she calls home. Actress Tala Ashe, as Jamila, struggles with her greatest source of inspiration, her father, who proves to be her biggest obstacle as she plots her escape. Mansour skillfully merges global politics with the intimacy of coming of age. As a member of The Emerging Writer’s Group, Urge for Going is Mansour’s debut production. The Public Lab presents ongoing plays to the Public Theater to support rising new artists. Two post-performance panel discussions relating to the work are scheduled for April 5 & 12. Through April 17

Don’t miss this magical musical performance of a timeless classic – revived after 60 years. Tickets are limited, so plan ahead. Follow the Nolan family through hard times and happy times set in Williamsburg, Brooklyn… singing all the while! The range of songs follows the emotional ups and downs of the characters, from Irish ballads to quintessential show tunes of a bygone era. This play has gotten rave reviews, is extremely popular… so much so that you have to act fast to get tickets. Enjoy the show! Tickets available for April 5 through 10

This play is heavy in theme – set in modern day Iraq with all that implies. A powerful mix of reality and spirit… the main character is actually a ghost, but not of a man… of a tiger. And, the tiger has much to say about life, reflection, war and philosophy. With Robin Williams as the tiger, you may wonder how this funny man can be believable in such a role, but he is brilliant in this dramatic performance. When American Marines and an Iraqi interpreter meet up with the spirit of a Bengal Tiger, the drama unfolds. This is a short run, get your tickets now. Through May 30

This ‘tour de force’ play will take a look at the simple theme of team spirit while reliving a sports highlight, and then turns it on its head. The all-star cast is more than superb – Kiefer Sutherland, Jason Patric, Chris Noth – and will not disappoint as they move the story from the sports bantering ‘boys will be boys’ beginning to the deep dive into how we end up as adults. Each actor delivers an impassioned performance and I was riveted from the first line. I am a 7-year fan of Kiefer Sutherland on 24 so my hands were clammy when I got to meet him at the stage door after the performance! Enjoy the emotional ride and the talented cast as I did… well worth it! Through May 29

This performance will be sold out quickly due to the noteworthy – Ben Stiller is one of my favorite funny actors, Edie Falco has always dazzled me with her acting, and I’ve loved Jennifer Jason Leigh since Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Ben Stiller is perfectly cast as an odd character whose life is satirical at best, and absolutely quirky. This play follows Artie who juggles a life with big dreams unrealized, a schizophrenic wife named ‘Bananas,’ and a frantic girlfriend named ‘Bunny Flingus!’ Previews start April 4; Performances April 25 through July 23

Set in Style: The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels (Through June 5, 2011)
This exhibit proves that ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’ – past, present, and undoubtedly in the future. As witnessed by the resoundingly popular exhibit from haute couture jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels. The exhibit displays gorgeous pieces from the top designers and an intriguing view of the key markers in the company history. The designs are extraordinary and I saw one-of-a-kind pieces worn by icons like Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Eva Peron and other key women representing style and glamour. Exquisitely designed jewels of ruby, emerald, sapphires and diamonds – ‘A kiss of the hand may be quite continental…’ You know the rest!

Wang QuinSong: When Worlds Collide (Through May 8, 2011)
The ICP is featuring a distinctive contemporary Chinese photographer, Wang QuinSong… the first US solo exhibition. Unique in style, and more importantly, in theme, this is more of an installation than an exhibit. It shows today’s Chinese culture with all the influences of the new wealth, rapid commercial influences and urbanization. The old journalism group photos during the Cultural Revolution have influenced Wang QuinSong, so you will see odd settings of people scattered throughout the exhibit in a pop art style. It is a mix of modern themes with historic connotations, and the result is mesmerizing, amusing and disturbing… all at the same time!

SOFA – Contemporary Decorative Arts & Design Fair (April 14-17, 2011)
This fair is fantastic! Officially called the International Sculpture Objects and Functional Art Fair, it is an event dedicated to design with a wonderful blend of glass art, porcelain, ceramics, mixed metals, jewelry, and every other material used to create decorative art. Featuring 55 top design galleries from New York to Tel Aviv, there will be something for everyone!

Scandal! (Through October 29, 2011)
Scary and common topic these days, but this exhibit is thought-provoking and maddening because we seem not to have learned from our mistakes over the years. Tracing repeated scandals in the USA from 1792 through the current financial melt down starting 2008. The best part of this exhibit is actually piecing together the story behind the crisis of today, and adding the historically perspective. It is fascinating, so plan your visit now – it is well worth it!

German Expressionism: The Graphic Impulse (Through July 11, 2011)
The MoMA has put together an interesting concept with this exhibit to show the medium of works on paper… woodcuts, lithographs and printmaking, as it evolved during the German Expressionism period. The use of these mediums greatly increased the artist’s ability to expand on themes, and they did in abundance. MoMA contains over 3,000 works on paper in this genre, and brilliantly displays the most critical 250 works with this exhibit. From Kandinsky to Beckmann, the themes range from War to religion, nature and sexuality, and all in mass – a very impressive exhibit to see!

Often considered one of the most romantic walks in New York, this promenade is short but very sweet! Made famous over the years by movies (from Annie Hall to Moonstruck), it offers breathtaking views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty – magical and peaceful! Because the promenade is short, try ducking into one of the historic tree-lined streets of Brooklyn Heights to view the quaint array of brownstones, especially on Columbia Heights, Pierrepont, Montague Terrace and Willow Street – all within a few blocks from the Promenade. What a lovely way to spend some a spring afternoon!

Dance Manhattan is different then most dance studios, in that they focus on couples dancing – Swing, Salsa, Tango and Ballroom dance. Getting married and need a crash course? Looking for a unique first date? The dance teachers are excellent and not intimidating, which makes the experience relaxed and fun at all levels! This is a great place to test out your partner moves… even if you don’t sign up with a partner, they rotate partners throughout the classes so everyone gets the opportunity to practice. Although all the dances are fun, I recommend Salsa!

It’s spring and the Reservoir beckons! If you run, or walk for that matter, there is no place in NYC quite like the Reservoir. At 1.57 miles, the path is narrow and a fence separates the path from the water below. The elevated setting is perfect for that solitary run experience – tranquil and inspiring, with spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, especially from the northern part of the loop. You may even see celebrities since it’s the prime running spot for locals. A few hints for your run… the eastern side of the loop becomes windy, so wear an extra layer if the temperatures are lower. Also, try to get there early to beat the afternoon strolling set. Pair the setting with your favorite music mix to complete the overall experience – happy running!

If soccer is your game, then this is your relaxed and low-key option for getting back into soccer this spring! The leagues are played weekly at various locations both indoor and outdoor. Take a look at the schedule and find which league suits your schedule best and sign up. The one thing about this league is that it’s fun and all levels are invited to play. Don’t worry about your abilities in soccer, as the group helps to place you at the appropriate level. Get your cleats and join the fun weekly… GOAL!

Sneak Preview April 1-3, Opens April 5th
Kids are obsessed with and enthralled by the Harry Potter books and movies… so take that curiosity one step further by taking them to this exhibit featuring costumes and props from the blockbuster films. Harry’s original wand and glasses, school uniforms… kids can even practice their Quidditch™… and don’t lie, you know you enjoyed the movies too! Come back without the kids to check out the Pompeii exhibit, with over 250 artifacts from before and after the eruption of Vesuvius.

How about a tea party with actual tea? Expose your child to your version of a tea party in one of the most exclusive rooms in the city with a view of legendary murals and cabaret music tailored for little ones. For $40 per person, choose from the adult menu for you and the kid’s menu for them. You can even take a Madeline book or teas with you. After enjoying an exciting morning in your Sunday best, go home and have the old fashioned imaginary tea party, as those can be more fun anyway.

Saturdays
The ‘Pop Ups’ will take you and your kids on a virtually delicious adventure to find the perfect local ingredients in Brooklyn to make the best pasta sauce ever! Live drawings, dancing, puppets, animals, mermaids, music and more will get you out of your seats, while your kids are not only entertained, but they’ll also be learning as they have fun. You’ll leave not only energized… but also hungry. Have fun, then go home and ‘mangia!’

The clothing and accessories in this store is absolutely adorable and will make your little one look like the runway is in his/her future. It’s certainly high-end, but if you want your baby clothed in the unique, this is the spot. Clothing is just one aspect of the shop. Also, baby furniture and other necessities for you and your child. Your typical Meatpacking District designer shop… only this time for your offspring, not for you!

With the current health craze, it’s the trend to treat yourself right. We want the best for our dogs, so that applies to them too. Organic food, designer clothing, massage and acupuncture… so why not yoga too? Practice your ‘downward dog’ with your dog at this one-day event. You and Fido will go through ancient yoga techniques to leave you refreshed and relaxed… and why shouldn’t you be relaxed? You don’t have to worry about running home to walk Fido! For more information, contact Deborah Green 212 532-4986, Ext. 285

Come and celebrate The New York Dog Shop’s 5th Anniversary. There will be puppies to adopt, champagne to drink, treats to eat, and giveaways to win. While you’re there, mingle with other dog lovers and shop for adorable clothing and accessories for your pup… Easter dresses and ties, tuxedo tanks, NY Yankees jersey (just in time for Opening Day) and toys. Who knows, you may even go home with a new doggy friend!

Can’t find a sweater to really fit your Dachshund or Whippet? Look no further. This uptown shop specializes in certain dog breeds. You’ll find everything from jammies to bodysuits to raincoats and overcoats… all perfectly fitted to your oddly shaped dog. Shop online to check out all of the dog breeds they cater to, and for easy delivery.

Head to Williamsburg to their newer location where you’ll find plenty to do and see. Nutritious food and Dog runs to keep your pup healthy and well-exercised. Treats and toys to keep him happy. Grooming to keep him looking clean and well-kept. Clothing to keep him looking fabulous. And all of the necessities and accessories to keep YOU happy and well-prepared. I very much enjoy visiting Kiki’s to marvel at their selection. And don’t forget to ask about their Pet Nutrition seminars.

Aritzia
524 Broadway (Spring & Broome St)
(212) 334-3255
New flagship store to open – hip fashions hit SoHo.

Nordstrom
350 West Broadway (Grand & Broome St)
11,000-square-foot concept in SoHo (with a completely different name). Slated to open this fall.

Torrisi Italian Specialties is expanding.
250 Mulberry Street (Spring & Prince St)
(212) 965-0955
One of my favorite restaurants is taking the space next door for a new restaurant called Parm… not a take-off on Parmigiano.

In the Arts
Y Gallery
165 Orchard Street (Stanton & Rivington)
(917) 721-4539
This East Village Gallery just opened a new space on the Lower East Side. Check out the current exhibit: Signs of the Times, a solo exhibition by Tom Fruin.

In Fashion
Annabelle
105 Stanton Street (Ludlow & Essex St)
(646) 370-3269
Winner of the Bravo reality competition The Fashion Show, Anna McCraney has just opened her namesake boutique… “Annabelle” in the former home of Tulips on the LES.

Eat & Drink
Bierhaus
712 3rd Avenue (at 45th St)
(646) 580-2437
Bavarian style restaurant and bar, right near Grand Central. Communal seating, 50-foot balcony, and glass ceiling. Doesn’t sound like a traditional ‘bierhaus’!

Rockography
504 6th Avenue (at 13th St)
(646) 360-4143
A Hard Rock Café for the locals? Nah… Think vintage, rock & roll, and plenty of amps. With things like Deep Fried PB&J, and drinks like Less Conversation, this is worth the visit! Comfort food and classic rock & roll… you can’t go wrong!

Untitled
945 Madison Avenue (at 75th St)
(212) 570-36
Danny Meyer’s new restaurant is now open at the Whitney Museum . While it’s not fully furnished as yet, go in to test out the food… with Danny Meyer at the helm, it’s sure to please.

For Kids
Galli Theater
Seaport Mall – 89 South Street (Pier 17 – at East River Dr), 2nd Floor
(212) 731-0668
Galli Theater recently opened a new location at the South Street Seaport… known for its imaginative stage adaptations of fairy tales. Bring the whole family! Now playing: Cinderella.

April 2 – Le Poisson Rouge Benefit Concert for Japan with Taka Kigawa
158 Bleecker Street (Thompson & Sullivan St)
(212) 505-3474
100% of ticket sales will go to The Japan Earthquake Relief Fund created by the Japan Society. Mr. Kigawa will perform solo piano pieces by Japanese composers. Great entertainment for a great cause.

April 2 & 4 – Co. (Company) – Benefit for Japan
239 9th Avenue (at 24th St)
(212) 243-1105
Chelsea based restaurant will be donating half of their food sales, and 100% of all beverages to the Red Cross Japanese relief fund.

April 3 – NYC Vegetarian Food Festival
The Altman Building – 135 West 18th Street (6th & 7th Ave)
(212) 741-3400
Vegetarians unite at this first annual event. Even if you’re not a vegetarian, you can try great animal-friendly food while learning about living a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. Samplings for NYC’s top vegetarian restaurants as well as information and raffles.

April 5 – Tasting Brooklyn
The Dumbo Loft – 155 Water Street , Brooklyn
Best of the Brooklyn Borough all in one place.

April 5 – 16 – Little Anthony & The Imperials
Feinstein’s at Loews Regency – 540 Park Avenue (at 61st St)
(212) 339-4095
They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and now they’re performing for the first time in a NYC nightclub in 35 years! Listen to classics like Tears on My Pillow and hum all the way home.

April 7 – 10 – New York Antiquarian Book Fair
Park Avenue Armory – 643 Park Avenue (at 67th St)
(212) 777-518
If you love books, this is the place for you. First editions, maps, manuscripts and more. A bibliophile’s dream!

April 9 – Free Laughter Yoga in Central Park
Central Park at Columbus Circle entrance (Look for the balloon and large group of people)
(917) 528 -0978
Join Carmel D’Arienzo and Tara DeNuccio for FREE Laughter Yoga in Central Park. Come and enjoy this healthy exercise of simulated laughter combined with relaxed breathing. 10:30am – 11:30am (arrive by 10:15am)
Wear comfortable clothing and bring water.

April 9 – Guy Marino Exhibit “Altered State of Reality” Reception
Agora Gallery – 530 West 25th Street (10th & 11th Ave)
Opening night of an exhibit at this Chelsea Gallery, featuring digital prints by Guy Marino. He “creates art that centers around contradictions.”

April 9 – South Street Oyster Saloon: A Fundraiser for New Amsterdam Market
South Street between Fulton & Beekman Streets
Visit this nighttime marketplace revival of the Oyster Saloons once found in old New York. Enjoy all types of oysters from special guest vendors, as well as other treats from local NYC vendors.

April 11 – 17 – SPRING SPA WEEK
Various Spas throughout the city
Sign up on the website to partake in $50 spa treatment specials during Spa Week! Who doesn’t need a good massage at a great price? I know I do…

April 12 – Good Housekeeping’s SHINE ON – Celebrating Women Making History
Radio City Music Hall – 1260 Avenue of the Americas (at 50th St)
(212) 247-4777
Celebrity readings and performances celebrating women making history. Hosted by Rebecca Romijn to benefit the National Women’s History Museum in Washington, D.C., Special guests include Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn, Fran Drescher, among others!

April 20 – May 1 – TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL
Various Locations
Every year, I see at least 5 films during this festival co-founded by Robert DeNiro to revive the now hopping Tribeca neighborhood. Every year I see celebrities galore. On my list… Ed Burns, Julianne Moore, Christy Turlington, among others. Who will I see this year? I can’t wait to see the films and get star struck in person!

April 22 – 23 – Earth Day Celebrations
Times Square & Grand Central Terminal
Save the Earth everyday, but celebrate it during these festivals in April. Art, music, and more.

April 24 – Annual Easter Parade
5th Avenue from 49th to 57th St
Wear your Easter best and head to watch the parade… and even meander IN the parade!