perspectives places Favorite restaurants I really enjoy what James Kent has done at Saga (shown). The spectacular feeling of being in New York (Saga is on the 63rd floor of 70 Pine Street, a landmark Art Deco tower in the Financial District) and his team's commitment to excellence is inspiring. I admire what Shenarri Freeman is doing at vegan restaurant Cadence. I love the consistency and the incredibleness of Le Bernardin. When I step into Melba's Restaurant, I feel like I'm home-that I'm in Harlem. I can't pick one. It's like a song. It depends what mood I'm in, the occasion, and who I'm with. I love the diversity that we have from Queens to the Bronx to Harlem. Spot to bring an out-of-towner Ernesto's (shown) on the Lower East Side. There are no frills, it's all about the food. Barbuto because there's a familiarity there and incredible hospitality. You feel the love when you walk in the door; you can't copy that warmth. Plus, chef Jonathan Waxman has been a huge influence on me and how I created Red Rooster. There's also a consistency that Vicki Freeman does at Shukett e [that impresses me]. Favorite hotel The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. It's rare as a New Yorker to feel like you're on vacation, and I like looking from Brooklyn onto Manhattan. 038 November 2022 hospitalitydesign.comhttp://www.hospitalitydesign.com