Out with Dr. Bill – Brunch with Sonja Morgan and Other Holiday Celebrations

Join me as I explore a week of culinary delights, vibrant social gatherings, and poignant community engagements set against the backdrop of some of New York's most cherished locales old and new.

An Alluring Brunch with Sonja Morgan

Last weekend was quite eventful for me. I had the pleasure of indulging in a scrumptious brunch at Allure Restaurant and Lounge on the Upper West Side. The company was nothing short of fabulous, featuring Sonja Morgan from "Real Housewives of New York," a couple of her teammates and Eric Baker. Nestled in the historic Hotel Belleclaire, Allure is the newest gem of City Nights Hospitality, and let me tell you: It was spectacular.

Our culinary journey began with the Allure Brunch Tower, a delightful assortment of croissants, pastries, quiche, potato latkes, and guava and apple butter. We followed this with delectable Eggs Benedict – poached eggs over a bed of Rainbow Chard and Potato Latkes, drizzled with Beetroot Hollandaise. As the champagne flowed and the Bloody Marys were enjoyed, the vibe was elevated by a live DJ, making it feel as though we were in the heart of Paris' Marais district. Sonja, Eric and I even took turns spinning tunes, though it was all digital, with no vinyl in sight.

Allure strikes the perfect balance between fine dining and urban elegance. Relaxing in such a stylish and sophisticated space was an absolute delight. The music, thoughtfully curated, added to the upscale yet inviting atmosphere. But Allure is more than just a meal, it's a destination. It's where you go to enjoy top-tier cuisine and immerse yourself in an upscale environment that epitomizes the after-dinner experience. This was particularly important this time, as we hosted a couple of high-profile friends from Los Angeles. We're always seeking the best spots in New York for such occasions, and Allure certainly impressed. As we sipped and chatted, two hours flew by, a testament to the captivating ambiance that Allure provides.

The Portrait Bar and Café Carmellini at the Fifth Avenue Hotel

We began our work week at the Portrait Bar, a gem located within the Fifth Avenue Hotel in NoMad. Once a McKim, Mead & White mansion at 250 Fifth Avenue, it has been transformed into a beacon of modern hospitality, design, art, and gastronomy.

The bar, designed by the renowned Martin Brudnizki, melds the classic elegance of a London hotel with the grandeur of an Italian villa. Its dark, wood-paneled walls are adorned with 50 portraits, evoking the legacy of a distinguished family. The furnishings include plush burgundy couches and chairs, while shelves brim with artifacts from international journeys.

Under the guidance of Bar Director Darryl Chan, the Portrait Bar has become an enclave of sophistication, known for serving some of the city's finest cocktails and housing an impressive art collection.

It's no surprise that Esquire magazine recently honored the bar's Cartagena cocktail as one of America's 50 best martinis. This exquisite drink is a blend of Korean Sonbigin, Colombian aguardiente, passion fruit liqueur, sherry, and cherry bark vanilla bitters, embodying a tropical twist on the classic martini.

After enjoying our pre-dinner martinis with friends Bob and Greg, we continued the evening with a delightful dinner at Café Carmellini. Located just a few steps down an internal hallway from the Portrait Bar, this signature restaurant felt like a hidden culinary treasure.

Overseen by the James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini, the dining room boasts a spacious, double-height design with an open kitchen and intricate details of wood, mirrors, and bronze. For those looking for a culinary tip, I recommend starting with the Wagyu carpaccio.