Cara Cara

When you’re staying close to home, what’s your go-to spot for a light lunch or a leisurely catch-up with a friend, and what feels like the perfect look for it?

If I’m meeting someone from work, it’s usually at Sant Ambroeus or The Mark since they’re so central on Madison Avenue. Those feel like special spots, but if I’m going for something more low key, I’ll take a friend to my tried and true lunch spot, Mezzaluna. Fall is definitely my favorite season to dress for in NYC, because people really bring on the looks. I love a cozy sweater set with knee-high boots and a light leather jacket. Nothing beats fall fashion in New York. 

Do you have a place you rely on for an afternoon pick-me-up — a tea, coffee, or something sweet that feels like a ritual this time of year?

Fortunately, but unfortunately for my credit card, I live just a block from Butterfield. It’s dangerous because there’s always a treat to be had, and when friends come up, all they want to do is grab a coffee, premade salad, or sandwich there. Lately, I’ve also been loving Isle of Us, a Mediterranean-inspired café with incredible pastries and nourishing, warming bowls. I am fully addicted to their GF matcha muffin. 

When the air gets colder, where do you love to tuck in for dinner — and do you dress things up for the evening or keep it simple?

I’m such a creature of habit, which may surprise some people, but my go-to dinner spots on the UES will always be Antonucci, Elios or Nicola's. They’re classics for a reason: you know the meal will be great, and you’ll never be disappointed. One of my favorite things about New York is that people dress up no matter the occasion or time of day, and the fashion-focused people-watching is unbeatable.

How does your routine shift once fall arrives in New York — are there little rituals, pieces, or layers that signal the change of season for you?

Fall is hands down the best season in New York! The city comes alive, the leaves change, warm drinks are everywhere, and autumn colorways take over the streets. It feels straight out of a 90s rom-com, and I love it!

On a perfect fall weekend, what does your dream Upper East Side day look like, start to finish?

On a perfect fall day on the Upper East Side, I’d wake up with my baby around 8am (wishful thinking, but a girl can dream). We’d get the family dressed and head to the Great Lawn for a walk with hot cappuccinos in hand. After Benny’s nap and maybe a cozy morning movie, we’d head to JG Melon for our favorite NYC burger. Then it’s shopping along Madison Avenue, inviting friends over for kid playtime and football, before resting up, putting the baby to bed, and calling a sitter. The night would end with dinner at our favorite Italian spot, Antonucci, a walk to Anita Gelato for the most incredible ice cream, and finally a warm shower before getting cozy in bed and watching Bravo.

Are there neighborhood gems on the UES you think deserve more love, whether a tucked-away café, gallery, or boutique?

If I shared all my UES secrets I’d get in trouble, but some of my better-known favorites are Madison Fare for their famous pistachio frozen yogurt, the home store Casa Salmaa, the jewelry store Jennifer Miller, and of course the Gagosian Gallery.