Whiplash

Director: Damien Chazelle (2014)

Whiplash is one of those movies which splits your life in two. There is your life before and after seeing it. Whiplash is one of the most powerful, intense movies we have seen in a long time. The face-off between the young promising jazz student (played by Miles Teller) and a terrifyingly demanding instructor (J.K. Simmons) is a journey into the dedication to become the best of the best. The images, the colours, the sound (of course…. the sound) are powerful, violent and beautiful.

Movie

Estela

New York City, US

How to best describe Estela ? Difficult to put in a box. This small place on the first floor above Houston Street can get quickly packed and noisy. But the food, expected to be your usual brasserie dishes has a welcome quirky-ness, inspired by the Mediterranean cooking training of the head chef. Best places to seat: at the bar. Even more so given that the bar stays open late. A fun night ahead…

Restaurant

Charlie Bird

New York City, US

Charlie Bird is a serious restaurant, serving solid Italian seasonal dishes, which doesn’t take itself seriously. Love the playful design and typical-Soho vibe. The outdoor patio and wine selection are not to be missed either.

Restaurant

Musket Room

New York City, US

Inspired by New Zealand cooking, the Musket Room delivers a refined modern and sophisticated set of dishes and a naturally edgy but cool setting. A gem in the Nolita neighbourhood of NYC, Musket definitely deserves its 1 Michelin star. Also, we love the small herb garden at the back !

Restaurant

Balaboosta

New York City, US

Set in West Village, this open and airy local eatery serves a delicious combination of Middle East inspired dishes. Mixing Persian, Israeli and Yemeni influences, the kitchen is able to bring the sun out on a cloudy day.

Restaurant

Japonica

New York City, USA

Not exactly a newcomer (est in 1978), Japonica remains one of the best sushi restaurants in Greenwich Village. Traditional, simple sushi served exactly as you would expect.

Restaurant

Pastis

New York City, USA

An institution in the Meatpacking District, Pastis just reopened. Finally. This quirky French bistro always has one of the best buzz in town. To be enjoyed, in particular on a sunny and lazy day for lunch.

Restaurant