In celebration of our special two-year anniversary issue, we thought it only appropriate to bring you our latest picks of Manhattan’s most exclusive and innovative locales, frequented-or in some cases owned-by many who made the cut for our premiere Haute 100 listing.

By Mary Mullaj

CLUBS
1OAK

From Richie Akiva and Scott Sartiano comes this exclusive lounge/club in West Chelsea. Beyond the unassuming teak doors the décor takes an extraordinary turn with light fixtures crafted of bicycle parts and fragments of the Origin of Species gilded on the walls and over the bar. Recurrent elements are red and black details, glowing wood, and evocative golden lighting. Inside, you will also find a very well-heeled crowd, more adult and sophisticated than in many Manhattan lounges. The club scene has grown up in a good way at this establishment, but hasn’t lost its playful touch. Case in point: the $8 milk and cookie plate from the lounge’s full kitchen.

453 W. 17th St.
212.242.1111

HOTELS
THE EMPIRE HOTEL

The Empire Hotel is ideally located across from Dante Park in between two New York City landmarks, Lincoln Center and Central Park, providing spectacular views of Broadway and Columbus Avenue. Thanks in part to the stunning urban vistas, the roof/pool deck is becoming one of the city’s top haute spots, known for its sensual chic décor and variety of delicious signature cocktails. Inspired by local surroundings, the 420 rooms pay tribute to Central Park through a rich earth tone palette accented by leather furnishings, while also reflecting the modernism of Lincoln Center with details like Frette linens and state-of-the-art plasmas. The property also boasts Jeunesse Spas for Life, the ultimate locale for seekers of pure relaxation. The oversized facility offers all-natural treatments, wellness therapies, and full salon services for men and women, perfect for both the jetlagged traveler and the seasoned New Yorker looking to indulge.

44 West 63rd St.
212.265.7400