Luxury vintage lovers and fashion enthusiasts gathered at the iconic What Goes Around Comes Around (WGACA) boutique on Thursday, December 14, 2023, for the grand finale of the year’s ‘Iconic Thursday’ series.
Nestled at the corner of Greenwich Avenue and 12th Street, Mino Brasserie stands as a charming 65-seat French restaurant, offering a modern twist on bistro classics at an affordable price. Since its opened its doors in 2022, Mino Brasserie has been delighting patrons with memorable meals that don’t break the bank. Led by Executive Chef Gerald Barthelemy, a former Michelin-star chef with an impressive tenure at the Vernet Hotel in Paris, the restaurant brings a touch of Parisian sophistication to the West Village.
The name Mino draws inspiration from the French slang term Minot, which translates to kid. This concept is deeply rooted in celebrating the old-school, artisanal style of French cuisine, and sharing a memorable meal with family, friends, and the community. Contrary to the misconception that French cuisine is decorative, Mino Brasserie proves otherwise. The dining experience here is not only filling but also beautifully presented, with each dish perfectly plated. Even the salad exudes style, featuring layers, a mild bitterness, and a hint of seasoning, complemented by a delightful aioli sauce that elevates each bite. The preparation of every dish left me in awe.
Image courtesy of Mino Brasserie
Mino impresses guest by embracing authentic French cuisine. Food has a way of making you feel at ease and comfortable. What the French consistently excel at is infusing love, warmth, and beauty into their culinary creations—an artistic escape experienced through every meal. As Paris is often dubbed the city of love, Mino Brasserie embraces a warm and intimate setting that aligns with the city’s romantic reputation. The carefully arranged seating and overall tone create an inviting space, encouraging patrons to truly engage, savor, and fully immerse themselves. The attention to detail is evident in the high ceilings, zinc countertops, oak wood floors, inviting tan banquettes, and ornate antique mirrors. Inspired by authentic Brasseries in France, the restaurant captures the essence of their timeless charm and culinary tradition.
Appetizers:
Burrata Des Pouilles : Traditional burrata, pear, roasted pine nuts, cherry glaze
The Burrata des Pouilles was phenomenal, with a perfect blend of flavors. While slightly heavy on the olive oil, the complexity of the dish was truly captivating. The sweet and salty combination, enhanced by strawberries and tasty mozzarella, created a harmonious symphony. The crispy crostini’s added a delightful texture, and the beautiful plating made the experience even more enjoyable. Paired with the Gewurztraminer, it was a match made in heaven.
Crevettes À L’aïoli: Grilled shrimps, aioli sauce, mixed salad.
I’m a big fan of shrimp, so when I saw it on the menu, I knew I had to try it. Grilled shrimp with aioli sauce—it sounded absolutely delicious. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but appreciate the well-balanced seasoning and expert cooking, reflecting the care that went into making it perfect for me, the guest. Shrimp holds a prominent place in French cuisine, and it was an ideal choice to kick off the tasting at Mino Brasserie. Paired with the Gewurztraminer wine, it was a delightful combination. I have high standards for shrimp, and Mino certainly met the challenge, setting the tone for the entire evening. When the waiter brought out my plate, the fresh aroma and appealing appearance made me excited—I could tell this was going to be amazing.
Accompanied by:
The Gewurztraminer Hunawihr Alsace 2018 from France presents itself with a medium straw color. The taste is sweetish and balanced, offering tones of lychee and mango. With medium acidity, this white wine leaves a lasting impression with its long and satisfying aftertaste, making it a great pair for my dishes at Mino Brasserie.
Main Course:
The Wild Scallops were exceptional, with a reduction sauce that was truly noteworthy. Paired with fries that were just right—thin and delightful—the scallops were skewered, not just drowned in the sauce. The layering and arrangement of flavors, including arugula salad and vegetables, created a fantastic combo. This dish is an absolute favorite, and I’m obsessed with its presentation and taste.
Sweet Finale – Crème Brûlée:
The Crème Brûlée with vanilla was a comforting dessert, featuring a sweet sugar-glazed top that cracked open to reveal a perfectly balanced French vanilla custard. It wasn’t overly sweet but exceptionally tasty and fresh. Each flavor was distinct, making it a beautiful complement to the entire meal.
Mino Brasserie is located at 225 W. 12th St and is open Tuesday – Friday: 4:30 pm – 11pm, Saturday – Sunday: 11:30 am-12 am, 11 pm* on Sundays, and closed on Mondays. Reservations are available through Resy.
Visiting Bohemien Bar in Brooklyn Heights was a delightful experience. The restaurant exudes a charming, vintage feel complimenting its design and texture with floor-to-ceiling speakers at the front of the bar. The beautiful architecture and the integrated sound system struck a perfect balance, providing an enjoyable setting with a smooth ambiance that wasn’t overwhelming or noisy. When you enter Bohemien, you’re immediately drawn to the grand circular bar adorned with various drinks and wine glasses. Despite the late hour and dimmed lights, the warm lighting and natural tones create an acoustic experience adding a special touch to the ambiance. The host shared that the restaurant had been reserved for both a wedding and a 40th birthday party that same night when we checked in letting us know that it’s pretty popular in the area. Bohemian Bar includes two semi-private sections available for reservation, providing guests with an intimate and stylish setting for gatherings of up to 25 people.
Image courtesy of Bohemien Bar
The space, designed by the Husband-and-Wife team, Tarek Debira,(formerly at Hotel Costesin Paris and Nobu London) and Patricia Ageheim, (formerly at Bond St. and Indochine), reflects a mid-century Scandinavian style, paying homage to Patricia’s background and heritage. This homage to Scandinavian aesthetics seamlessly integrates with the bar’s infusion of high-fidelity sound. The custom speaker system, designed by Perry Brandston, a prominent figure known for his work across New York’s diverse entertainment spaces, enhances the overall experience. The strategically placed, hand-built speakers by Pete Raho of Gowanus Audio create a unique dining experience, allowing sound to travel without interference. With floor-to-ceiling speakers and a DJ booth curated by Tarek, featuring playlists in consultation with Shawn Schwartz of Halcyon fame, Bohemien Bar presents an immersive fusion of design and auditory delight.
Image courtesy of Bohemien Bar
For dinner, we ordered the crispy Zucchini with zaatar, paprika, and tzatziki, Fried Chicken Tacos with chipotle aioli, Mac & Cheese Bites with bacon jam, and Duck Flatbread with leeks and smoked gouda. Our absolute winners were the crispy Zucchini and Mac & Cheese Bites. Bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection, they immediately triggered a craving for more. I tend to be tough on restaurant sides, but theirs didn’t disappoint.
Turning our attention to drinks, I opted for the Smokey Moon (Mezcal, Shochu, lychee puree, yuzu juice) and Mambo No. 5 (3 Rum, apricot, almond, coconut water, spices, curry leaves, clarified milk punch). I’m always up for drink experiments, especially if recommended by the waiter. It’s a good idea to bring a friend for shared sips and to explore various options. My friend tried the Butterfly Cocktail and the popular Birdy Num Num. Bohemien Bar is renowned for its creative drink menu, adding an extra layer of delight to the overall dining experience. Dessert was a memorable affair with the Warm Chocolate Ganache Cake and Crème Brûlée Cheesecake. Both were decadently delicious, striking the right balance between rich sweetness and a hint of bitterness. A perfect way to conclude our meal – an experience worth repeating.
Bohemien Bar is located at 97 Atlantic Avenue and is open Monday – Thursday: 5 pm – 1am, Friday – Saturday: 4 pm – 2 am and Sunday: 4 pm – 1am., with reservations available through Resy.
ElewaTv, a full service Black women owned creative agency and multi-media platform founded by Abisola Sanya, hosted its 3rd annual Creative Chat Link Up at the Black Gotham Space in South Street Seaport NYC earlier this November. With a vision of becoming Africa’s largest creative network. The women run team of makeup artists, hair stylists, set designers, PR and creative directors are all passionate about seeing ElewaTv become a platform that builds community around emerging talent and the competitive creative industry.
Panelist included Jean Paul Dia, Sadin Moore, Noel Camacho, Fatama Kamara, & Kobina De Graft-Johnson with host Ariel Laura facilitating questions. Each creative got the opportunity to discuss how they navigated the industry, setting boundaries, centering their faiths and community in their work, and leaning into their authentic selves to set them apart. Event sponsors included George’s Sparking Drinks and Sugarcane Restaurant in Brooklyn.
ElewaTv founder Abisola Sanya
Launched in September of 2019 Elewa, deriving its name from the Yoruba word for beauty has persisted even in the face of COVID-19 restrictions. . ElewaTv illustrates a concept needed more of in the media, fashion, and beauty industry. Historically, Black individuals have been marginalized, their beauty standards often overshadowed by prevailing norms that primarily celebrate white women. This discrepancy is particularly evident in modeling agencies, which have a deep-rooted history of favoring specific models characterized by predetermined body types and a particular skin complexion.
In response to these entrenched biases, the industry is undergoing a transformative shift with heightened awareness. There is a concerted effort to challenge and overcome issues like colorism, texturism, and body shaming. ElewaTv stands at the forefront of this movement, actively working to be more inclusive and challenge the traditional norms and perceptions surrounding beauty. By fostering a community-driven ethos, ElewaTv seeks to redefine the standards of beauty, emphasizing authenticity, diversity, and the celebration of all forms of beauty, irrespective of societal stereotypes.
Back in 2021, ElewaTv started a crowdfunding campaign Called Creatives Alike on Seed & Spark to fundraise for their 24/7 docuseries that would platform creatives across the diaspora. ElewaTv premiered episodes of the 24/7 Daily Show shot during Covid at the Creative Chat Link Up featuring Dotun Abeshinbioka, Fatamata Kamara , Clint Catul and others.
The resounding message echoing from the event was a call to honor oneself, nurture personal dreams, and safeguard one’s beliefs. In an industry often characterized by pressure to conform, the emphasis remained on staying true to one’s identity, embracing authenticity, and leading with unwavering faith. The panel of creatives, many of whom shared a Christian background, underscored the significance of faith as a foundational force. This grounding element serves as a compass during the unpredictable journey of the creative industry, providing clarity and resilience amid challenges that might otherwise seem overwhelming. The acknowledgment of something greater than themselves enables these creatives to maintain a broader perspective and persevere on their paths of self-determination.
When delving into the challenges creatives encounter at the outset of their journey, a recurring theme emerges. Fundamentally, the hurdles revolve around securing funding, garnering support, and finding meaningful work opportunities. This creates a sort of catch-22 scenario, where one essential element is often required to fulfill another. As the panelists highlighted, navigating this challenge may involve thinking creatively about how you engage with the space you aspire to be a part of. This might include avenues such as interning, volunteering, or even initiating your own projects to kickstart your journey. The creatives on the panel shared insights from their non-traditional paths, serving as a reminder to the audience to consistently believe in themselves and their vision.
Check out out ElewaTv’s 24/7 Daily Episodes on Youtube and a recap of the Creative Chat Link Up below!
On the evening of November 9th, at the Bam Harvey Theater in Downtown Brooklyn. Andscape a Black run production company and Hulu partnered with Tierra Whack to premier her debut film Cypher. The atmosphere exuded a Black essence, the vibe was real and the partners understood what it meant to honor Black creativity.
A Mexican-inspired Courtyard opened its doors to Brooklynites in Williamsburg earlier last month, inviting them to enjoy Mexican gastronomy and culture as they experience the menu for the first time. The popular food district has long been an epicenter for culinary innovation, drawing the attention of food enthusiasts from far and wide. By offering contemporary interpretations of classic Mexican dishes, Mexi navigates the delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing innovation.
In an ever-evolving culinary landscape, Mexi distinguishes itself through a commitment to authentic flavors, cultural immersion, and a holistic dining experience. The echoes of Mexico resound not only through the delicious dishes but also through every aspect of Mexi’s decor. Traditional tiles, hand-painted artworks by local artists, and Mexican symbolism create an environment that transports diners to the heart of Mexico. The restaurant breathes life into century-old church pews, reclaimed beams, and custom doors, which stand as artifacts of history, now repurposed for the enjoyment of patrons. Large oil paintings adorning the walls capture the essence of Mexican landscapes, agave plants, and traditional Folklorico Dance Dresses, creating a sensory journey through the country’s diverse regions. Every detail, from the Zapotec Queen-sized rug to artisan hand-painted tiles, adds texture and authenticity to the space, ensuring that Mexi remains a masterpiece in culinary immersion.
Mexi Food
The Mexi team drew inspiration from their Mexican heritage to create a menu that pays homage to the country’s rich culinary traditions. Spearheading these efforts is Chef Zenaido Hernandez, an experienced talent from the restaurant group, with the consultation of Michelin chef Johan Svensson from Aquavit. At Mexi, everything is made from scratch, from corn tortillas to mole sauces and hand-rolled corn masa dumplings, often referred to as ‘gnocchi,’ showcasing a commitment to authenticity and quality.
- Fire-roasted tomatillo & jalapeño salsa verde ($14): Mexi’s salsa verde offers a flavorful and mild option that’s perfect for dipping chips. The tangy notes and smoky heat in the red salsa add depth and variety to the experience.
- Tuna Serrano Aguachile($19): While not everyone may be a ceviche enthusiast, Mexi’s take on the Tuna Serrano Aguachile is a culinary adventure. The combination of fresh tuna marinated in a cucumber-lime broth, mixed with herbs and vegetables, results in a refreshing and delightful dish. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Short Rib Birria Tacos ($24): These open-faced tacos feature juicy short ribs, served with their own consommé sauce, offering a deeply satisfying and richly flavored option.
- Pork Shoulder Al Pastor ($26): An embodiment of Mexican street food, these taco skewers feature guajillo pepper-marinated pork shoulder, served in a grilled pineapple. Guests have the opportunity to create their perfect bite with complementing salsa matcha, salsa roja, and house-made tortillas.
- Popover Churros: For dessert, The Popover Churros, reminiscent of traditional churros, are served with dulce de leche and Mexican Chili chocolate sauces. A sweet and indulgent finish to Mexi’s menu.
Photo courtesy of Mexi
Mexi Cocktails
Curated by Ramon Morado and Carlos Becerra, Mexi’s cocktail menu is a celebration of Mexican spirits, showcasing rare small-batch tequilas and Mexican rums. These ingredients serve as the foundation Mexi’s cocktails that draw inspiration from Mexico’s history and heritage.
- Mexi in the City: A Mexican-inspired take on the Cosmopolitan, with colors reminiscent of the vibrant streets of Mexico.
- El Concord: A mix of Margarita and a wine float, symbolizing the historical period when Mexico was occupied by Spain.
- Maria Felix: Inspired by Mexican Actress and singer Maria Felix, known for receiving roses after her performances, this cocktail captures her essence with its pink and red hues.
- Sergio Leon: Drawing inspiration from the agave landscapes in Mexico, Sergio Leon incorporates green to represent the agave plant itself, accompanied by foam as part of the fermentation process.
Mexi is located at 149 North 9th Street and is open daily from 4 to 11 p.m., with reservations available through Resy.
On the evening of October 24th, Cipriani South Street hosted the highly anticipated WWD 2023 Honors, a dazzling event that brought together the titans of fashion and entertainment. It was more than just a night of glitz and glamour; it was a reminder of the industry’s profound impact and the individuals who make it all possible.
The venue, nestled by the Staten Island Ferry with a breathtaking view of the New York Harbor, set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Attendees arrived in style, embracing the night’s theme that seemed to revolve around Dior. The unmistakable presence of Dior bags and insignia paid homage to Maria Grazia Chiuri’s influence, a designer who has brought a unique touch to the fashion house. Grazia Chiuri has broken a long-standing tradition by being the first woman to helm the Dior women’s line, succeeding a line of male creative directors.
The annual WWD Honors Gala is a celebration of trailblazers who have left a mark on the fashion industry over the past year. WWD recognized outstanding designers, fashion brands, beauty houses, and retail companies for their contribution to the space. Notable guests included Madelyn Cline, Thomas Doherty (Wearing B57 Dior by Kim Jones shoes), Christopher Briney, Lola Tung, Kathryn Newton, Myah’la Herrold, Melissa Roxburgh, Carolina Herrera, Wes Gordon, and others.
One luminary of the evening, Dries Van Noten, arrived to accept an award, dressed in his own creations, confidently stating, “I’m wearing me.” Notably, some designers chose to step away from the Dior camp, such as honoree Jaques Agbobly, a talented designer from Togo & Ghana. Agbobly sported a jacket from his Agbobly line and a striking Neon Telfar bag, exuding the vibrant spirit of Black fashion. His braided hairstyle, skillfully done by Hairstylist Helena from Slayed In Braids, perfectly complemented the look, reflecting a harmony of colors and a shared appreciation for cultural aesthetics.
Jacques Agbobly
Among the distinguished guests, Jennifer Lawrence graced the event in a Dior Spring 2024 black wool dress, presenting the John B. Fairchild Honor for Lifetime Achievement Award to Dior Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri. This honor recognized Grazia’s illustrious career, solidifying her status alongside fashion icons like Tommy Hilfiger.
We asked honoree Gucci Westman, Co-Founder & CEO of Westman Atelier, who accepted the Best Performing Beauty Company, Small-Cap Award what advice she would give her younger self, Gucci responded, “Be brave, stretch yourself, be grateful, and soak it all in.” In a similar vein, Thomas Doherty conveyed the essence of the event, saying, “It’s fashion; it’s always chic; it’s great; enjoy.”
Lola Tung
Christopher Briney
Madelyn Cline
Heléne Yorke
Heléne Yorke
Kathryn Newton
Julia Schlaepfer
Julia Schlaepfer
Myha’la Herrold
Jacques Agbobly
Dries Van Noten
Dries Van Noten & Marc Puig
aul Arnhold & Wes Gordon
lyah Chanelle Scott & Reece Feldman
Jacques Agbobly & Ethan Holding
Myha’la Herrold
Jennifer Lawrence
Jennifer Lawrence
Melissa Roxburgh
Jennifer Lawrence & Maria Grazia Chiuri
Li-Lac Chocolates, the beloved confectioner renowned for its handmade gourmet chocolates, recently celebrated its 100th Anniversary in the heart of New York. The Industry City factory and store were abuzz with excitement as the chocolatier celebrated this significant milestone in their storied history. This special anniversary event, the fourth in their series of centennial commemorations, drew a crowd of chocolate enthusiasts and community members eager to partake in the festivities. For those who cherish their timeless creations, it was a golden opportunity to join in the celebration.
Li-Lac Chocolates treated their loyal customers and newcomers alike with some sweet surprises. Among the highlights was the limited edition 1923 Vintage Collection Chocolate Gift Box, priced at just $19.23 for the first 300 customers. This exclusive collection was a tribute to the very beginning of their journey. The celebration continued with free gift boxes for the first 100 visitors, acknowledging the ongoing support from their dedicated patrons. The store also extended a generous 20% discount on all their offerings, making it a sweet day for everyone in attendance.
Li-Lac Chocolates’ 100-year journey is not just a reflection of their culinary excellence but also a celebration of their tradition of craftsmanship. As they continue to be an integral part of New Yorkers’ milestones, their commitment to quality and tradition remains unwavering. The Industry City factory and store served as the perfect backdrop to celebrate a century of sweet memories and continue to create many more.
Li-Lac Chocolates Locations
- Hudson Yards: 20 Hudson Yards, Level 4
- West Village: 75 Greenwich Avenue
- Bleecker Street: 162 Bleecker Street (btw Sullivan & Thompson)
- Grand Central Market: 43rd Street & Lexington Avenue
- Chelsea Market: 75 9th Avenue (at 15th Street)
- Brooklyn Factory/Store: 68 35th Street (btw 2nd & 3rd Avenue) Brooklyn.
- Website: www.li-lacchocolates.com and Instagram: @lilacchocolates
Southern California-based beverage company Passion Tree, the pioneer of the world’s first-ever mini-hard seltzer, hosted their official launch party for their new line of Passion Tree Minis in NY on October 7, 2023. Originally scheduled for an October 8 launch, Passion Tree Minis are now available in select Target stores including New York, Illinois, Florida, Texas, and California as of Monday. The seltzers come in five flavors, including Guava, Dragon Fruit, Boysenberry, and two new flavors exclusive to the minis variety pack: Lychee and Coconut.
Photo Courtesy of Passion Tree
Despite the immediate downpour, the event was a success. Make Believe, the rooftop venue where the event was hosted, offered a fantastic experience. The rain may have been falling outside, but it didn’t dampen the spirits of those inside. The room was filled with influencers, beverage enthusiasts, and Passion Tree co-founders Andy Kuklock, & Jake Ryder, who took the time to connect with attendees, sharing their brand’s vision for the future. The drinks had a subtle sweetness perfect for a housewarming matching the intimate and friendly atmosphere of Make Believe. The 7.5oz cans, with an ABV of 5.5%, are available in a Variety 10 pack for $18.99, or Guava and Coconut 6 packs for $11.99. Store locators can be found at drinkpassiontree.com.
Photo Courtesy of Passion Tree
Passion Tree takes pride in offering a friendly beverage option tailored to a conscious and responsible drinking crowd. It’s not about seeking intoxication during a night out; so much as it is a refreshing drink that doesn’t come with the lingering effects of a hangover. The lower alcohol content can strike a balance that allows for easy social drinking without taking a toll on your well-being. Their compact size is convenient for on-the-go activities, such as picnics, outdoor events, or carrying in a purse or bag. Passion Tree Minis empowers consumers to enjoy every moment in a precisely portioned, guilt-free package while reducing the risk of health concerns associated with excessive alcohol consumption. With their compact size, signature light carbonation, premium brewing process, gluten-free and kosher certification, and 70 calories per serving, these mini hard seltzers are sure to disrupt the seltzer market in a huge way.
For more information please visit drinkpassiontree.com and follow @PassionTree on social.
Variety Gotham Week kicked off with a screening of Raoul Peck’s latest documentary Silver Dollar Road on Monday, Oct. 2 in partnership with Amazon Studios at the Angelika Film Center. Silver Dollar Road is a documentary film directed by Raoul Peck that tells the story of the Reels family in North Carolina and their decades-long battle to reclaim their ancestral land. The film sheds light on the historical injustices faced by Black families in America regarding land ownership.
The film is told through family matriarchs Mamie Reels Ellison and her niece Kim Renee Duhon who continue fighting for their families’ land even after their brothers and uncles Melvin and Licurtis are wrongfully imprisoned. Melvin and Licurtis become two of the longest-serving inmates for civil contempt in the country spending close to eight years behind bars for refusing to give up their property. Their struggle is a reflection of the broader challenges faced by Black communities across the country. Something that was once seen as invaluable has now become a commodity and the Reels stood in the way of that greed. Despite living on the land & raising their families, they were deemed inferior to those who only saw the land as property and possession.
Courtesy of Prime Video
Raoul Peck joined Variety Gotham Week for a Q&A following the film. During the Q&A he emphasized the importance of authenticity, empathy, and the enduring impact of the film. Peck highlighted his intention not to overly stylize the documentary but rather allow the Reels family to be themselves. He stressed the need to protect both the people involved in the film and the protagonist, ensuring that their story was portrayed with integrity. His goal was to avoid depicting the family as victims and, instead, to present them as parents, uncles, and human beings. By doing so, he aimed to create a connection with the audience, so that when the dramatic moments unfolded, the empathy would still be central.
Peck touched upon the broader context of land ownership and deprivation, a theme that extends beyond the Reels family’s experience. He noted that many people have come from land somewhere and were deprived of it, often involving their parents. This phenomenon is not confined to rural areas but also manifests in cities through gentrification, where marginalized communities are pushed out.
Courtesy of Prime Video
In the context of Beaufort, North Carolina, where the film is primarily set, Peck noted that the town’s residents generally know each other, implying a sense of familiarity and community. However, beneath this surface of familiarity lies a deeper issue related to racial and economic disparities. This is where the power structure comes into play.
Peck observed that despite the close-knit nature of the community, the Black population in Beaufort was disproportionately affected by land dispossession. These disparities reflect a broader pattern in America that particularly affects Black Americans and their access to economic justice. In his own words, Peck emphasized that the film isn’t just a story but a lasting memory. He didn’t want the film to be a detached narrative but he also wanted people to care for the characters as much as he did.
Silver Dollar Road will be available to stream on Prime Video 10/20 and open for viewing 10/13 in select theaters