July Newsletter

I think people so often conflate interesting with most expensive so I am so glad you framed the question this way.  I am sure it is the same in real estate. Sometimes a wonderful old home with character and a great backstory can be far more exciting than the latest development. The most interesting by far was a Norman Rockwell painting called Breaking Home Ties. The owner of the painting, an artist himself, was going through a divorce and painted an exact replica of the Rockwell to hang in its place, hiding the original behind a trap door in his home. The copy hung there for years, fooling even the most renowned experts given the perfect provenance of the work. When the original was discovered shortly before the house was to be sold, it made the front page of the New York Times! The painting was estimated at $4-6 million and sold for over $15 million back in 2015.

 

Not to pander, but how can I not answer Monet?!

 

 

I think the press on the art world focuses on the big prices that we achieve at Sotheby’s. While those can surprise and delight, the most delightful aspect is actually the passion behind the collectors and the pride with which they show off their collection. It brings me great satisfaction to suggest a new artist or work to a client and see that passion ignite. In short order, they can become expert on the topic.

 

Musée D’Orsay. I love practically every painting in there and I can envision setting up a cozy nook behind the giant clock and being quite happy. Plus it’s in Paris!

 

I wake up very early so I can get my workout in before work and ground myself for the day. At night it is all about a great meal and drinks with friends or a relaxing night in on the sofa watching great television and doing absolutely nothing!

 

I aspire to be a decent tennis player but have a long, long way to go.

 

Georges Seurat’s Afternoon on the Grand Jatte at the Art Institute of Chicago. Dreamy.

 

Thomas Crown Affair, the re-make with Renee Russo and Pierce Brosnan. Russo’s wardrobe, entirely by Michael Kors in his Celine days, is every bit as covetous as it was when the movie came out and she is just such a boss you know? Honorable mention: Made you Look: A True Story about Fake Art is my favorite documentary. When something is too good to be true, it usually is! That is all I will say.

 

L.A.’s art scene is booming because in addition to having incredible art schools, so many artists working today live here. The city is giving New York a run for its money in terms of being a creative center and I think we are seeing that in the proliferation of major galleries opening in Los Angeles.

Jeffrey Deitch always puts on can’t miss group shows. I love Anat Ebgi’s gallery program and I can’t wait to see what Megan Mulrooney’s new space does. She is a star!

 

The art fairs are a fantastic way to see the most new art at one time. The galleries have selected what they think will sell best and while you will see all manner of trends at a single art fair, themes will start to emerge. That said, and I may be biased, but I think we are entering an era where buying the latest trend will subside and people will focus on those artists who have already stood the test of history. It can be hard to separate the wheat from the chaff in the moment. And other than that, read, read, read and scroll, scroll, scroll (on Instagram!).

 

I am still new enough to the area that I have a lot left to explore but I think there is something spectacular about Montecito. Any time you can get that combination of the mountain and the water I am sold!

 

Wallpaper!!!! I love art against wallpaper too. When it works it really works and I think too often people are scared to abandon the white wall.

 

I’ve never met a private club I didn’t like so where possible I tend to frequent those. But Tower Bar never gets old and La Dolce Vita makes me feel like a true Angeleno.

 

I am a shameless vodka martini stan, now and forever. Blue cheese olives, where possible, please.

 

If I could open a linen shop one day I would be happy. I think the selection at E. Braun is particularly divine!

 

Monet Berger of course!

Welcome to the ultimate guide to eating, shopping, and having a blast in the Hamptons! Whether you're a local or just crashing the party this summer, here is the lowdown on the hottest spots to hit. From mouth-watering meals to chic shopping, here's your insider scoop on the must-visit places lighting up the East End.

Kick off your Hamptons adventure with a trip to Arthur and Sons, where classic Italian-American vibes will make for the perfect dinner.  This place is a cozy, retro gem with a menu that'll make your Nonna proud. Picture this: creamy lasagna, juicy meatballs, and a chicken vodka parmigiana that's out of this world. Their martinis are truly next level, just make sure you Uber!   It's the stuff of legends. Perfect for date night or a dinner with friends, Arthur and Sons is where comfort food dreams come true.

Cruise down to The Highway for a dining experience as sleek and stylish as the name suggests. This spot is all about mixing American and international flavors with a seasonal twist. The Highway delivers a top-rate dining experience. Think fresh seafood, inventive salads, and a wine list as curated as an art exhibit. It's the go-to place when you want to impress without the fuss.

For all the bread and pastry aficionados out there, Carissa's is your happy place. This isn't just a bakery; it's a bread-lover's paradise. With everything made from locally-sourced ingredients, Carissa's offers artisanal breads that are practically art. From crispy sourdough to decadent chocolate babka, this spot is perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a sweet treat. Trust me, you’ll be back for more.  Try the pickled rye, you can thank me anytime.

Pizza lovers, get ready to fall head over heels for Fini Pizza. This casual joint is all about quality and simplicity, with a menu that’s short but oh-so-sweet. Whether you're into the classic Margherita or something a bit more adventurous like their truffle mushroom pie, Fini Pizza delivers every time. The crust? Perfectly crispy. The toppings? Always fresh and generous. It's the kind of place where one slice is never enough. Insider tip: order WAY in advance; wait times can be daunting. August Insider Secret is a special seafood shack menu on Fridays 12-6 pm, including lobster, crab, and clam rolls.

Need a pit stop for some fresh, delicious goodies? Round Swamp Farm Stand is the ultimate spot for farm-fresh produce and homemade delights. This local favorite is packed with juicy fruits, colorful veggies, and the best chicken salad you've ever tasted. Whether stocking up for a beach picnic or just craving something fresh, this farm stand has got you covered. It’s a little slice of country charm in the heart of the Hamptons.  You might need to mortgage your house to pay for it!!

Looking for the perfect waterfront dining experience? Duryea's in Montauk is the place to be. With stunning views of the water and a laid-back, nautical vibe, this spot is perfect for savoring the freshest seafood the Hamptons have to offer. From their famous lobster rolls to the freshest oysters, Duryea's is a seafood lover's paradise. Pair your meal with a crisp glass of rosé, and you've got the recipe for the perfect summer day. It's the ideal spot for soaking up the sun, sea breeze, and unbeatable flavors.

No trip to the Hamptons is complete without a little shopping, and Sylvester & Sons is the boutique you didn’t know you needed. This store is packed with unique home goods, stylish accessories, and gifts that scream Hamptons chic. From handcrafted ceramics to luxurious textiles, you'll find treasures perfect for sprucing up your home or finding that perfect gift. The vibe here is warm, welcoming, and just plain fun—plus, they have the best BBQ sauce ever made.

 

 

This iconic boutique hotel is a true gem. An Italian coffee program hosted by Gucci until 11 a.m. every day gets locals popping by often. The real treat is the restaurant for dinner. With Chef Jorge Espinoza of Scarpetta, you can not go wrong with any dish. Sitting in the back garden will be worth the trip out East. It was such a delightful summer evening, one I will not soon forget.

 

 

Eat Inside or Outside, take it to go for the beach, GET THERE! We happened to have take-out as we watched the opening ceremony for the Olympics, and this is an Olympian Lobster roll and my all-time favorite. I could wax on about everything else, but I only had eyes for that Hot Buttered Lobster roll. The Fried Flounder is tasty with fries. Don't forget the soft serve is a must

 

 

 

 

 

Thomas Keller's Least Favorite Things: The Imperfect Ending

 

 

 

 

Turning an L.A. Home From Rotting Walls and Broken Glass Into a Mid-Century Gem