Speaking in the City + NYC Restaurant Favorites

A city that can make me feel small while some of my largest dreams continue to occur is a city that has a direct line to my soul. This is New York City for me. My heart dances a little louder here. This is not a gentle place, it is direct, owes you nothing but when you continue to show up for it - it can give you everything you need and more. I’ve loved in this city, inked my first book deal in this city, have been rejected in this city but one of my favorite things to do here - is to be open to all its inspiration. There are those of us who come here to shop and then there are those of us who hunt down the staple James Beard Award winning neighborhood spots avoiding the tourist trap at all costs. If you know me well, I am skipping the dressing room and I am bellied up to a corner table in a casual culinary gem. My work schedule hardly sleeps here so this narrowed down list is a good one for those pressed on time that won’t overwhelm you.

It was such an honor to be invited back to speak at three different events. Below, are behind the scenes and I hope you take the time feel the palpable humanity that comes across from each gallery. This is about community and I am forever grateful to have your support.

First, I want to thank everyone who took time out of their day to gather in community and celebrate The New Southern Style book. I am passionate about being a resource for you. How do I do this? I structure the evening with a thirty minute talk covering The Power of Photography: How to Leverage Your Lens ®, purpose driven branding tips and then I open up the floor to a significant Q+A session (with a book signing to follow). I have traveled all over the country giving this talk and the Q+A sessions are always my favorite. This is time spent getting to know you, listening to your fears, championing your wins, answering any question you have and ultimately creating a space to grow together.

It was such an honor to partner with Schwartz Design Showroom and Tracey of Found PR. We kicked off the first event at Schwartz Design Showroom’s newest location at The Fulton Street Design Center. Alexis Varbero is the fearless leader behind her family business and to be in the company of brave women who continue to take risks is truly a gift that keeps on giving. I value the spirit of women like Tracey and Alexis, because at the end of the day they want to see those around them thrive and succeed. The energy was palpable this particular week and I appreciate you for continuing to give my book wings to fly.

SCHWARTZ DESIGN SHOWROOM | FULTON STREET DESIGN CENTER IN EDISON, NJ

SCHWARTZ DESIGN SHOWROOM | STAMFORD, CT

THE NEW SOUTHERN BOOK SIGNING MODERATED BY JENNY MOLLEN | H|G WEST VILLAGE, NYC

The rain was pouring and so was love on this particular morning in the West Village. Jenny was in the midst of her own book tour with Dictator Lunches so for her to offer to moderate my intimate gathering was beyond selfless and very generous. I appreciate the author community. I feel like we have compassion for one another because writing books is hard and it’s not supposed to be easy. It takes grit, being stubborn (hi, we’ve met), constantly advocating for our own dreams along each others. A special thank you to Nicole from Blitzer & Co and Hudson Grace. This was a signing that had been moved from San Francisco, Marin County, the Hamptons to the perfect West Village spot.

Here’s the dish:

1. L’artusi is the big sister to B’artusi - the pastas are excellent and the Lasagna Bolognese Bianco at B’artusi are what literal dreams are made of.

2. Barbuto - Chef Jonathan Waxman came highly recommend by Jenny Mollen and his restaurant didn’t dissapoint. Ben and I walked in and were seated right away. We warmed up with the largest piece of fresh focaccia and an absolute must is the Insalata di Cavolo (Kale Salad). I had beautiful mussels and fresh pasta - I could eat this every day.

3. Via Carota - One of my absolute favorite west village spots and the toughest reservations to secure. My tip is to go during an off hour and try your luck as a walk in. Ben and I were inbetween meetings and this happened to be a very late lunch for us around 3pm est. Must try: Insalata Verde, Fritti, Meatballs (SO GOOD), Cacio Pepe - honestly everything on this menu.

4. Brindle Room - An East village gem that my cousin Jeremy Spector owns. This establishment has been on every top ten burger list imaginable and although the burger certainly lives up to the hype, his menu has so much more. He’s creative, fuses new flavors and is perfect for a candle lit date night spot. Also, a big congratulations for his recent win on Guy’s Grocery Games.

5. Sadelle’s - Housemade bagels and the perfect spot for brunch.

6. Maman - I like to start my morning’s here with a black coffee, fresh croissant with a little rustic warmth.

Healing Truths | A Gentle Roar

Time machines are real. They come in the form of simple little words strung together that can remove us from our current reality and transport us back to the past in a matter of seconds. It can be a song that takes us back to a loved one or unexpected words that trigger a shadow from the past. These are memories that are stored on a cellular level keeping a running tally. My last time traveling experience was in March when I received an unexpected text that appeared on the front of my phone with an audible ding, “I’m going to ruin you” it read.

I could hear my heartbeat making its way from my chest to my throat as I emotionally was shutting down. I was sitting in my office working quietly to the white noise of the ac running in the background. Five little words took me from a strong 40 year old woman back to a 16 year old girl studying for finals, witnessing knife fights and physical violence in a matter of seconds.

See, I knew the day would come when my estranged father would get his hands on my first book. I feared this day because I knew my light would reveal his shadows. It enraged him. March 13, 2022 happened to be this day. Truth does not free a narcissist - It cages them to their anger and lack of accountability. The pages of my book are gentle and honest. Rather, then congratulating me he used his words as weapons for three consecutive days. I recorded his behavior, returned to my physical body with healing exercises I learned through therapy and initiated a relationship with the Tulsa County Sheriff's department should this continue. 

As my father was weaponizing threatening words in my inbox, I was reclaiming the hardwood floor and feeling mother earth firmly planted underneath me. As a child, the chaos silenced so much of my voice but as an adult, it is one of my most important tools to build strong bridges, deep connections and communicate boundaries. My gentle roar as an adult is a form of self love and I responded to my father with this: You can not ruin what you did not build. I do not receive your threats and I encourage you to get help.

This may be an unpopular father’s day post, but let this truth part the visual sea down the middle of social media family perfection. Let this story be a resource and a reminder to return to your truth, reclaim your center and own your voice. No one can take away the groundwork of healing you have built and continue to build for yourself. My sacred pillars are a daily practice of creativity, wellness, mental health, peace and appreciation. Those who did not help you build your foundation can not take away the life you have created for yourself. Love on those who continue to support you through the light and the shadows. We all have them and that’s what makes us valuable resources for one another. Xx

You can use this technique anytime you are experiencing strong emotions that are distracting you from your present moment. As creatives, it is important for us to be tethered to the present and connected to the moment. This is how we hear our gifts and find inspiration. We are unable to do this if our strong emotions or external circumstances are keeping us locked in the past. I love this grounding exercise because it can be done anywhere: I use it when I am on a nature walk to fully appreciate my surroundings, I use this before I am about to speak on stage and I use this when I am maintaining a center through strong emotions. I hope this is a resourceful tool for you.

ONE: Place your feet firmly on the ground. Feel the floor and the earth supporting you. 

TWO: Repeat: My physical body is supported by the strength of Mother Earth. 

THREE: Acknowledge what time and day it is.

FOUR: Using your senses: Identify your surroundings - What do you see? What do you hear? What do you smell?

FIVE:  Place your right hand over your heart and your left hand over your tummy and breathe deeply in for 5 seconds and exhale for 5 seconds. Repeat this.

SIX: Focus on your breathwork and affirm in your mind that you are safe, you are cherished and that you are loved.

Welcome to Nashville: Alyssa Rosenheck's Must See Spots For Music City Visitors

I recently caught up on some trash tv (yes, I can grow roots on the couch with the best of them) to see an infamous group of Jersey house wives grace Music City. However, I was disappointed and found myself yelling at the TV - “This isn’t Nashville”, “Who picked these places”, “The producers missed the mark” and “Where are all the small businesses”. I see this often when shows are taking the televised trip to the South and I would like to make this easier for everyone to ensure an authentic local experience.

I have updated my Nashville list for you. This doesn’t include everything and it is not supposed to - however, this list is filled with my personal favorites in a city that forever has my heart. We are a city celebrating creativity, community and growth while maintaining a small town personality. Nashville is where I grew into a full hearted woman, found my creative voice, while becoming my own healer and leader in this world.

I hope you love and care for our magical city along with the artists that give our streets it’s heart beat. Have fun and explore with deep curiosity - we are so much more than a televised cruise ship parked on broadway with flashing florescent lights. We are a city filled with heart, innovation and dreamers taking risks - Welcome to Nashville. Xx

To Shop

1. Eneby Home - This is a family owned operation that curates some of the most beautiful weathered and worn objects from around the world. This is my go to for vintage chairs, art, concrete and marble tables. If you are searching for your home or your next project - it is definitely worth an appointment. They also show in Round Top, Texas and at The Antiques and Garden show.

2. Gas Lamp Antiques & GasLamp Too — A massive antique mall spread across two large buildings where you can listen to 50’s and 60’s rock and roll as you shop...Each one is filled with fine antiques and furniture, home decor, vintage jewelry, books, lamps and so much more. If you have time to kill or it is a rainy day in town - these halls are worth a slow stroll.

3. City Farmhouse - Kim is a dear friend and fellow author (we share the same publisher). Her antique filled spot is located in historic downtown Franklin and worth the scenic drive. Kim and her husband David are some of the best pickers in the country (with notable clients such as Sheryl Crow and many more) and has a serious eye for antiques you will want in your home.

4. Preservation Station - when walking in you will find dedicated spaces filled with salvaged claw foot tubs, doors, chandeliers and anything to bring your “picking” passions to life.

5. The Golden Slipper - This darling little spot is everything a boutique experience should be - kind and appealing to all the senses. Abby and her husband hand pour the best smelling candles in town. You will also find signed copies of my book there. Xx

6. Brooke Worthington Jewelry - Brooke is the national go to for repurposing all your “hand me down” pieces of jewelry. She has a beautiful selection of the daintiest pieces for everyday wear but her repurposing is truly a gift for the pieces that need a little extra love.

7. Apple and Oak - If you need a witty gift, a card that will create a belly laugh, or a stunning rug worth framing Allison’s shop is for you!

8. Yearly Company - I love it when women create businesses from their personal family traditions. Anne did this and for those generational milestones - her bangles are the number one go to timestamp priceless memories.

9. Emerson Grace - I always hop in here for her collection of Ulla Johnson and such a great spot to find the perfect party dress.

10. White’s Mercantile - From a converted gas station in 12th south to the perfect spot for a hostess gift - this is my go to in town for a quick thank you treat. We also through an epic birthday bash for The New Southern for the neighborhood with all the visuals here. Xx

11. Imogene Willie - Worth the investment and experience for a pair of blue jean babies that will last a life time. I kicked off my book tour in a pair of these beauties.

12. Amelias Flower Truck - You will find Amelia’s flower truck floating around 12th south filled with fresh blooms or her flagship store at the L&L market building.

13. The Barefoot Cottage - a sweet lifestyle boutique where you can find a little something for all the loves in your life including your home.

14. Draper James - Filled with strong southern charm and a line wrapped around the corner for one of the most instagramable walls in Nashville.

15. H. Audrey - For all things Zimmerman and Janessa Leon - This Hill Center spot is worth the parking.

16. Skin Pharm - If you are in town for a getaway or a girls trip - this is a great space for the ultimate glow up. Facials and all serums included. Maegan has a fabulous space and the kindest team.

17. Sarah Flint - I recently celebrated Sarah coming to town with her grand opening on the second floor of The Green Hills Mall. For timeless style and unrivaled quality, her shoes will having a growing presence in my closet. Save some room in your luggage for here beauties HERE.

18. Seasonal + worth the calendar effort: Porter Flea, Antiques & Garden Show, TN Peach Festival

To Brunch + Lunch

1. The Roze Pony - I normally do casual breakfast or lunch meetings here. The vibe is chill, chic, and I always order the pancake soufflé to split for the table! Worth every bite.

2. Proper Bagel — A taste of NY in the heart of Belmont. This is our our weekend spot for an everything breakfast bagel and a black and white cookie to go!

3. Fenwicks 300 - The best french toast in town. You will find me in a baseball cap, yoga pants and with my brilliant attorney during the mornings fueling up for the week ahead.

4. The Food Company - The best little hidden lunch treasure in town. The southwest turkey salad with extra croutons and avocado is a must!!! Take it to go or sit outside and enjoy their garden patio.

5. The Pink Hermit or High Tea in the Veranda at the Hermitage Hotel - If you are looking for a fun spot for the women in your life - this is a darling destination. The cafe serves pastries, lunch and wine or you can have a true southern tea experience that will make any moment memorable under hand painted clouds in the Veranda. I also encourage you asking about the history of the space.

6. Chaatable - Maneet is a dear friend and truly changing the culinary landscape in town - if you want to experience Indian street food, this is your Pani Puri party spot!!

7. Josephine - You will find me bellied up to the bar with black coffee and their homemade cinnamon sugar bite sized donuts. I personally can’t think of a better way to start off the weekend. Reservations suggested!

To Dine

1. City House — If given the choice, this would be my go-to for every meal, hands down! I love the deconstructed aesthetic for a casual yet intimate night out. Their menu changes seasonally but a few staples to try are the Frico and Bellyham Pizza (no egg for me). This is a menu I trust and love to explore because you can taste the talent behind the food with James Beard Award winner - Tandy Wilson leading the way. I also love how unpretentious this spot is - its all about good food and good people.

2. Epice — If you want to be transported to the Mediterranean without ever leaving the deep south, this is your spot! The food is fresh and healthy which is all I really need to fuel me up. Concrete walls, honed marble surfaces, raw and untouched wood...the visual aesthetics speak to my heart and make it easy to gravitate towards. Which is why I love lunch dates here. The setting is intimate and the perfect spot to connect to those around you.

3. Kayne Prime - Have I told you how much I love popovers…. it is an aggressive obsession. I am normally bellied up to the bar in the back of the restaurant with a glass of their Austin Hope Cab, popovers, a petit filet and an order of their mac and cheese with jalapeños - it doesn’t get any better than this in my opinion. I like to go early for a less ‘see and be seen vibe”.

4. Cafe Roze - This is an eastside staple with some of the best fries in the south. Go out on a limb and order the Chili eggplant and be prepared to be delightfully surprised.

5. 5th and Taylor - This is my go to for larger parties. The space is anchored by 100’s of candles and their sausage cheddar biscuits are a must. I love the juxtaposition of this space being more industrial paired with the warmth of a family style evening meal.

6. RH Cafe - Before Soho House opened, this was and still is the spot for a great glass of Daou Rose with one of the best burgers in town. Be prepared to be transported out of Nashville when you sit underneath a light filled atrium dreaming of your favorite California coast. Tip - ask to be seated away from the fountain unless you want an occasional splash.

7. Cafe Nonna - The ONLY Italian restaurant in my opinion for pasta. It is small, hot and worth the trip to Sylvan park. Try the seafood angelina with red sauce. You can also make your own pasta combinations and the angel hair, bolognese with ricotta is also a favorite.

To Socialize

1. Bastion — This Houston Station watering hole always reminds me of a little Brooklyn bar and is about as unpretentious as it gets. I roll in with jeans and a white-tee, craving nachos and a beer with a wicked game of ring toss.

2. Never Never - A former welding shop steps away from Bastion is another casual and cool summer hot spot.

3. Soho House - Nashville is now home to the largest house in North America. Members only, but worth it for meetings, pool hangs and the easiest reservation in town. Our location also has one of the most beautiful gyms in all the land - hello to sunrise yoga and sound baths on the terrace (hotel guests have access to all the amenities).

4. Proof at the W Hotel - I personally love the views here. You will hardly catch me out late at night but I love to schedule an early happy hour at this spot before it fills up.

5. Rare Bird — Perched up on top of the cute, upscale boutique hotel, Noelle, is this chic rooftop lounge with unbeatable views of downtown. There’s a fine attention to design which makes it easy on the eyes and ideal for pretty cocktails or catching up with old friends!!

6. The Patterson House — A nashville speakeasy staple and a must for all mixologist lovers.

7. LA Jackson Bar - another little swanky rooftop in the heart of the gulch. I am a fan of the Thompson hotel brand and this is always a fun spot.

8. The Twelve Thirty Club - If you are willing to brave the broadway crowd’s - then Justin Timberlake’s bar needs to be on your list.

9. Station Inn, The Stage, Robert’s + Tootsie’s - If you are visiting Nashville for the first time, The Station Inn is the mother church of bluegrass and worth checking out. The rest are a few fun honkey tonks where even the locals frequent.

10. Collective 615 - Whether you are in town for the weekend or live here full time, popping into Nashville’s first women only co working space will give you the extra boost you need to keep moving in the direction of your dreams.

To Sweat

1. Fahrenheit Yoga Studio - Give me a case of the Mondays and a candle lit studio to shavasana it out! One of my favorite music city studios.

2. Radnor Lake - A safe haven for wildlife and a preserved ecosystem around a lake. This is a hidden gem 8 miles from downtown. Dogs, bikes and jogging are prohibited on the internal trails to prevent disrupting the sensitivity of the state park.

3. Percy Warner Park — Y’all! This pretty park is the perfect place to break away from your phone for an hour or two and be one with nature (and the concrete steps) that will whip your tush into shape. There are 3 equally beautiful trails to choose from which all vary in length (from 2.5 miles to 6+) depending on the route you want to take.

4. Dry Bar Nashville - For a post sweat BLOWOUT head to my dear friend Bonnie’s locally owned and operated Dry Bar!! Bonnie and her team will have your locks up and running in no time with a little soulful inspiration free of charge! She is the best!

To See

1. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens - If you combined a 55 acre estate from the 1930’s with a world class art museum and a botanical gardens to inspire the senses - you have one of Nashville’s many jewels for a solo date or a family friendly afternoon. I highly recommend an afternoon or sunset stroll here.

2. Hatch Show Print - I highly recommend the tour to soak in 140 + years in business of custom prints and event posters. This is a cool way to get a taste of music city history.

3. Ryman Auditorium - This historic location is the mother church of country music. It started out as a church in the 1800’s, transitioned into the original home of the Grand Ole Opry to now being a springboard to soon to be music legends with the best acoustics in town.

4. Station Inn - If you want a smaller and much more intimate venue filled with history and the world’s best bluegrass - this is the spot for you.

5. Country Music Hall of Fame - Home to one of the world’s most extensive music collections.

6. Predator’s , Sound’s, Titans, Nashville SC - For all things sports, beer and grunting.

7. David Lusk Gallery - David has one of the largest contemporary collections showcasing notable and new names in the art community. His space is also beautiful and right around the corner from Soho House and Bastion. Xx

8. Broadway + Printer’s Alley - Get your boots, boosters and cowboy hats ready!! The honky-tonks are a must if you’re a newbie to Nashville. Any night downtown is sure to ENTERTAIN. My favorite staples where you will find a mix of tourists and locals - Tootsies, The Stage, Roberts Western World, Merchants (get the tater tots please) , and Paradise Park.

9. The Girls of Nashville - Celebrating a full community of female singer songwriters! The Nashville rounds are corralled by a dynamic trio: Caitlyn Smith, Heather Morgan, and Maggie Chapman. They have been featured in Time magazine and People to name a few and is worth adding their events to your calendar. I guarantee you will leave feeling more inspired and community driven after any of their rounds.

To Sleep

1. 1 Hotel Nashville - I love this spa and hotel so much that I personally do staycations at this location. If you are in Nashville for business, the vibe will give you the peace and tranquility needed to support a constructive trip. You can look through a recent staycation HERE.

2. Four Seasons - Always a gold standard choice if you are wanting to stay and play downtown.

3. Soho House - Nashville is home to the largest house in North America. You don’t have to be a member to book one of the 47 hotel rooms and when you are a guest, you have access to all the creative spaces members fully enjoy. P.S. - One of my favorite gyms in the city and I may see you there. Xx

4. Thompson Nashville - It’s always clean, chic and gives a boutique feel. This is a prime time location in the Gulch steps away from restaurants, music venues and downtown.

5. The Hermitage Hotel - If staying downtown is a must, this landmark hotel needs to be on your list. You will experience both its history, newly renovated hotel rooms and some of the best hospitality in town. I recently photographed the property and have been blown away by the level of detail and attention coming from their passionate team. Also, A selfie in the women’s restroom is a must.

6. W Nashville - Modern, luxe and in the belly of the Gulch!! Also, one of the best roof top views the city has to offer.

7. Conrad Hotel - Brand new and perfect for the business traveler who wants to be a little more midtown with all the amenities.

Amangiri For First Timers

A connection to the land around you is a return to self. This is evident through every architectural line directing our eyes to a breathtaking view and reminding us that nature's wonders ignite our inherent gifts. I have never felt more creative and intuitive in an environment before. I turned forty at this “peaceful mountain” which was an important destination for my creative self to welcome in new beginnings and growth for a hopeful new year.

I gravitate towards views that make me feel small. These views allow room to breathe. The 600 preserved acres of Navajo land reminded me of a passage of time with deep sacrifice, great reverence and what I personally needed — a spiritual recharge. It honestly felt like walking through a scene in WestWorld. I am sharing all of my tips and tricks to make this a seamless journey for you.

Disclosure: We paid in full and the price tag is an interesting pill to swallow, but quickly forgotten once you arrive. I highly suggest putting this on the bucket list for a deep sense of renewal and a return to the things that matter most — stillness, a connection to the land and a renewal of your creative spirit. 

SEASON TO GO:

We went when it was cooler. I am normally a sun, sand and sea kinda of gal but this is the perfect spot to close out December and ring in the new year. I also loved how the weather supported the activities. If I am on a mountain, I want to feel the cool air fill my lungs, wrapped in all layers to then return to a warm fire and heated floors. This is my ideal location for a winter wonderland without snow. The most popular months to go are from August through December. If you don’t want to spend New Years there, the sweet spot would be October.

HOW TO GET THERE:

We flew from Nashville, TN (BNA) into Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS). We rented a suburban ( in case there was snow on the way) and drove four hours to the property. The drive was easy, beautiful and if you have a little extra time, I would suggest driving through Mt Zion National Park. There are also options to fly private which can be arranged through Aman’s concierge (I will need to be selling a few more presets for this option) - Ha!

WHAT TO WEAR:

There is a science behind what I pack. I make a list and strategically plan out outfits for each day and night. There is nothing worse than not having something you need when you’re thousands of miles from home or overpacking. To my surprise, this went out the door upon arrival. Amangiri is very relaxed and I loved this most about the experience. Along with connecting to the land, there was a shedding of layers for me. I wasn’t focused on how I looked. I was focused on catching the sunset and staying moisturized and warm. I brought five pairs of yoga pants, long sleeved shirts, warm coats with matching beanies, and a good pair of running shoes for hikes. There was no pretense here which was a nice departure from the rest of the world. Jeans and sweaters are perfect for dinner (or yoga pants and a cute beanie).

ACTIVITIES:

The activities we participated in were:

Three Slot Canon Tour led by a member of the Navajo tribe, Two Hours on a property Horseback Ride for two with a private wrangler, Sunset Trail Experience, a Grounding Journey Spa Treatment, and then Ben on his own did the Guided Via Ferrata (there is nothing less appealing to me than being suspended 600 ft off the ground with a rope — hard pass).

It is an absolute must to do the Slot Canon Tours while you are there. It is a private and sacred tour through canons that are 190 million years old. The ancient and iconic geology is beyond comprehension. The next must-do is to go horseback riding through the property. You are riding through 600 acres of preserved Navajo land and you feel like you’re somewhere in between Jurassic Park and a Western. This may come as a surprise to some, but I don’t spa well. I just don’t. I start to get antsy especially when there is so much nature and architecture to see. I personally would skip the spa next time and take a hike or possibly do a helicopter tour over the grand canyon.

Also worth mentioning: they have a great list of activities each day that are available to guests at no additional cost. These range from morning group hikes to storytelling by the fire to learning astronomy through the lens of the Navajo tribe. The next time I go back, I’m taking advantage of their offerings!

SUGGESTED DURATION:

We stayed five days / four nights. I personally could have experienced one more evening there.

WAYS TO INCORPORATE THE PHILOSOPHIES OF AMANGIRI + THE NEW SOUTHERN WHERE EVER YOU ARE:

1. Slow down

2. Look for extraordinary moments in ordinary tasks

3. Get outside and let nature remind you of your strength, connection and creativity

4. Meditate, take baths, journal and continue to nourish your mind

5. Unplug. Put your phone down and tether yourself to the moment.

6. Be curious with your local history and let it inspire your creativity.