Everyone has that one person they call to get trusted details on a restaurant or the it spots to be seen for a night out on the town. A romantic date spot, parents visiting type of scene, a group dinner…you name it! Well, I hate to give up my source, but this guy has never {ever} steered me wrong when I ask him for help. Who is this NYC living god? Oh darling, that would be the fabulous + talented, Alex Cook. Hola!
Why have I made him my savior go-to for all things foodie + social? Maybe it’s because I’ve looked up to his taste from the very beginning {oh yes, I met him in the 8th grade…we hit it off with our love for popped collars}. Or maybe it’s because he balances his work {Ralph Lauren corporate} + play {always present at the most exclusive parties} so perfectly. Regardless, he is the king of knowing where to go each season, which is incredibly hard to keep up with all of the openings + closings!
Obviously, it was a must to get him on B+H asap to answer my eager questions on where to go this fall! So without further introduction, everyone say bonjour + hola to this fashion driven New Yorker.
When I interviewed Alex Cook on Park Ave., he looked nothing short of impeccable. It was a must I not only shot him for the post, but zoomed in on his outfit. So handsome, point on, and perfect!
rugby ralph lauren tuxedo jacket, black fleece by brooks brothers white button-down, polo ralph lauren bowtie
polo ralph lauren pants + ralph lauren purple label velvet loafers
Through the Eyes of Alex Cook:
What is your personal look? Any style icons?
I love to mix classic prep with bold statement pieces, always with an eye towards quality and craftsmanship. I also love to incorporate a little downtown edge, when appropriate. There’s nothing like donning a black leather bomber jacket and distressed, skinny denim to make you feel bad!
One of my style icons would have to be Olivia Palermo’s boyfriend, Johannes Huebl. Firstly, he and Olivia are like the most glamorous couple, ever. Secondly, I love how he mixes fashion-forward tailored statements with luxe classics all while maintaining an understated chicness.
What are two things in your closet you could never, ever get rid of?
My custom-fit Suit Supply houndstooth blazer and my slim-fit Christian Dior black tux.
Any staple pieces you will be flaunting this season?
This season I will definitely be sporting statement scarves, leather and claret! And, not that you asked, but, you certainly won’t see me chasing down the camo trend anytime soon. It’s like, put it away…. From whom are you hiding?
What event are you most excited about attending this fall? any style tips to elevate your red carpet look?
I absolutely cannot wait for the Audubon Young Members Fall Benefit at Avenue, followed by the after party at PhD at the Dream Downtown. As part of the Young Members Board, I know first-hand how important our conservation work is in the New York region. It’s going to be one heck of an event, all in support of the crucial environmental work to which the Audubon Society is dedicated.
In terms of red carpet, feeling your best is the most important. For guys, I think flaunting some personality with patterned or interesting tux jackets are super fun. For ladies, don’t shy away from fabulous Remonte shoes! As many of you are well aware, the perfect pair of heels can change your life!
In your opinion, what are the fall places to go for:
HAPPY HOUR
Uptown
- Campbell Apartment (Grand Central) – order the prohibition punch and don’t look back
- The Yale Club (Grand Central)
- Brinkley’s Station (UES) – book the upstairs overhang for a semi-private ambiance. Tom continues the casual-cool vibe from his downtown bar to its relatively new uptown cousin
- J Bird (UES) – order some bites from their eclectic and fresh food menu, if you’re hungry
- Crown (UES) – $10 wine and cocktail specials combined with $10 seasonal menu items make this swank gem an economical smash hit (5-7pm, M-F)
Downtown
- Apothéke (Chinatown) – the bees knees is the bees knees at this secretive establishment
- Orient Express (West Village) – give the mata hari a whirl
- The Standard Grill (MPD) – I love their classic penny drop and John Dory punch bowl. Ask for the bowl if you don’t see it on the menu!
- John Dory Oyster Bar (Flatiron)
- Tacombi (LES) – similar to their Montauk outpost, this location has refreshing pitchers for group imbibing
- Maison Premiere (Williamsburg)
DINNER
New and Buzzy
- Toro (Tapas, West Chelsea)
- Alder (Modern Gastronomie, East Village) – make sure to be on time for your reservation. They’re not kidding with the 15-minute table hold policies
- The East Pole (Locally Sourced, UES)
- Khe-Yo – NYC’s only Laotian restaurant
- Brooklyn Fare Manhattan (Opening Soon) (Tasting Menu, Locally Sourced, Midtown West)
Best for Date Night
- The NoMad – ask to sit in the Parlour if it’s evening or the Atrium during the day (Noveau American, Flatiron)
- Cherry – peruse their amazing sake menu, throw caution to the wind and order a bottle of my favorite, “Cabin in the Snow.” If you insist on skipping the sake, try their signature cherry bomb, and then tweet about it
Best for Groups
- Mari Vanna (Russian, Flatiron) – be sure to taste their incredible selection of flavored vodkas
- Private Alcoves downstairs at Spice Market (MPD) – featuring one of my favorite drinks in the city, Jean Georges’ Ginger Margarita pitchers (half price on National Margarita Day!). Ask to be seated in one of the private alcoves downstairs for a more exclusive feel
- Pig and Khao – self serve bottomless draft, $15 (Asian Fusion, LES), group seating in the garden
Reliable
- The Fat Radish (Chinatown/LES)
- Tia Pol (Tapas, West Chelsea)
- Maialino (Italian, Gramercy)
- Locanda Verde (Italian, Local, TriBeca)
BRUNCH
AYCD
- Pig and Khao (Asian Fusion, LES)
Most Reliable
- Good (Classic, West Village)
- Extra Virgin (Classic, Italian/American, West Village)
- Calliope (French, East Village)
Trendy
- ABC Cocina (Inspired Tapas, Flatiron)
- The Dutch (Noveau American, Soho)
With the Parents
- Sarabeth’s West (UWS)
POST-DINNER DRINKS
The Boom Boom Room – my perennial favorite. Marisha does an incredible job as the Food & Beverage Director
Cienfuegos – Jarman and I absolutely adore a punch called “Silver Sangaree.” It’s not on the menu, but ask the server if they can make it and they’ll usually hook you up!
Experimental Cocktail Club (LES)
Bowery Hotel Lobby Bar and Lounge – try the ginger spice, a perfect autumnal moment
Downstairs at Super Linda (TriBeca)
Bar Naná (MPD)
The Library Bar at The NoMad Hotel (Flatiron)
CLUBBIN’ THE NIGHT AWAY
Electric Room – This single-room rock den remains my top pick for a night of revelry, especially after realizing during their 2-year anniversary party in September that they’ve managed to stay better than ever! Do yourself a favor and follow @LegendaryDamon on instagram, now
The Raven – Henry Stimler’s new MPD spot manages to simultaneously pull off upstairs chic and downstairs den of sin
Tao Downtown – given its prime real estate and Nur Khan oversight, Tao DT is sure to be a Fall favorite
No. 8 – best to stay on Disco’s good side and pay attention to their cocktail menu. They often have delicious seasonal cocktails.
The Jane Hotel
Whether you’re a foodie and want to try some of the most hip places in the city or are just in the mood to try something new, it’s a must to check out Alex’s picks on where to park it this fall. Happy Weekend! B+H
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