A handful of restaurant tables in New York just became even more coveted reservations. Tacking onto the 15 New York additions to the Michelin Guide announced in September, the Michelin Guide just added 11 more restaurants.
23.09.2023 - 21:35 / forbes.com
In my latest column where I profile creatives and highlight their travel style, I had the pleasure of interviewing Yulia Ziskel, who is a violinist for the New York Philharmonic and has been a member of the first violin section since 2001.
Given that Ziskel is part of one of the world’s most famous orchestras, global travel and visiting other concert halls is part of the job. She’s also an insider when it comes to her knowledge of New York gems.
The Philharmonic kicks off its 2023-2024 on September 27th with an Opening Gala Concert featuring Yo-Yo Ma as a guest soloist and Jaap van Zweden conducting in what’s his final year as Music Director.
It’s a sold-out event, but tickets are still available for next weekend’s (September 29th to October 1st) trio of concerts featuring Joshua Bell performing his piece The Elements.
Below is my conversation with Ziskel.
Where do you currently live?
In Bergen County, New Jersey, in a small town called Dumont. I also spend a lot of time around David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center every week for rehearsals and concerts.
What is your favorite neighborhood in NYC and why?
I love wandering around Chelsea and a bit south of there. It’s full of charm and beautiful architecture – the little streets have lots of boutiques and great places to eat or just have a glass of wine.
Can you share some of your favorite spots near the Philharmonic and what makes them so great?
There are some fantastic options around Lincoln Center! For food, one can’t go wrong with The Smith – their menu is great across the board, and it’s open late for an easy after-concert bite or drink. Also near the hall, Bar Boulud and Boulud Sud are both amazing (too bad they close early)! For a drink and a view, our regular place is Rooftop at the Empire Hotel – always accommodating, always friendly, and always open late! If you wander a bit uptown, two sister establishments, TESSA and ASSET, are absolutely wonderful, from the food to the drinks to the vibe!
The best place for a pre-or post-concert meal at any concert hall globally and why. What are the dishes to order?
I’m torn… if I tell, I won’t be able to get in! But seriously, we just came back from Paris, which has one of my favorites: La Tour de Montlhéry-Chez Denise. I have been going to this place for the past 20 years! It isn’t near the hall, Philharmonie de Paris, but you can go before or after the concert thanks to their friendly hours. Order any steak on the menu, you won’t be disappointed.
Best watering holes near concert halls around the world and the drinks to get.
There are too many… I’ll pick one that happens to be close to home: Vanguard Bar. It’s this wine bar on the Upper West Side near David Geffen Hall.
Insider tips for enjoying
A handful of restaurant tables in New York just became even more coveted reservations. Tacking onto the 15 New York additions to the Michelin Guide announced in September, the Michelin Guide just added 11 more restaurants.
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