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My City: Jonathan Adler’s New York

Jonathan Adler has called New York City home for 35 years. “ I could never have lived the creative life I’ve been so lucky to live if I hadn’t moved to New York,” the potter, designer and author says. “NYC is my forever muse.”

With the city for inspiration, Adler launched his eponymous design brand in 1993, focusing on pottery. A year later, his pieces were at the most New York of department stores, Barneys (RIP). He opened his SoHo boutique in the late ’90s, and has spent the last two decades branching out into home decor and interior design at large, as well as designing hotels like The Parker Palm Springs and Eau Palm Beach. And last year, he opened Atelier Adler, a studio and boutique, also in SoHo.

Here, the potter on a mission to add some glamour back into our lives shares his guide to New York City. Spoiler alert: He loves The Odeon.

Contact your Indagare Trip Designer or Indagare, if you are not yet a member, to start planning a trip to New York City. Our team can match you with the accommodations, reservations and activities that are right for you.

The Breakfast Spot

“I looooove Café Cluny. It’s neighborhoody and calm and casual and homey. Also great for lunch”

For a Fancy Lunch

“If I’m feeling a bit glitzy I head to Cipriani on West Broadway. It’s hilariously sceney and delish as well. And, of course, one should never ever ever forget about The Odeon. The Odeon—always.”

The Art Stops

“I love to visit The Broken Kilometer, a permanent installation from Dia on West Broadway. It is across the street from my studio and I often pop in for a bit of calm and inspiration. Plus, the Museum of Arts and Design museum is an under-appreciated gem.”

Dinner Time

“I love Sant Ambroeus in the Village. I love to sit outside and people watch. The Odeon is my favorite romantic spot. It’s been around for about three centuries and it always always always feels relevant. I think it’s the lighting. If you want to fall in love with New York City, truly understand the creative energy of this town, go to The Odeon.

Favorite Hotels

Soho Grand is a classic, Soho House is cozy and comfy, and, if I’m feeling rich, there’s always the Crosby Street Hotel. It’s so homey and luxe and delightful, but so expensive. Oy vey.

The Must-Do Activity

“Just walk and walk and walk and walk,” he says. Where to go? “Call me cliché, but I never tire of the West Village.” (And for some exercise, he heads to the Hudson River Parkway to run. “It ain’t so naturey, but I love to run there.”)

On Screen and On Pages… Best NYC Book or Film?

“I love A Time to Be Born by Dawn Powell. It captures the excitement of moving to the city to find fame and fortune. And for a film, Midnight Cowboy. The seamy side of NYC. To love New York is to love it—warts and all.”

Contact your Indagare Trip Designer or Indagare, if you are not yet a member, to start planning a trip to New York City. Our team can match you with the accommodations, reservations and activities that are right for you.

Published onNovember 1, 2023

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