New York’s New Queen of Cool

1.5 min read

We sit with Kage designer Arwa Abdulhadi as she sets up home in the Big Apple and get a glimpse into her world. Join us as we get an insider’s view of the hotspots to visit in her new neighbourhood. Next stop, New York City…

Why New York City I moved here with my husband for his work and it was a ‘someone pinch me’ moment. I think it is probably everyone’s dream to live here.

Time of year It’s a blessing to live somewhere that goes through all four seasons; and each season has its charm.

How many days to see it all I don’t think you can ever see it all. But in four days you can probably see a lot.

Suggested travel partner Adel, my husband.

Most fashionable haunt Williamsburg’s flea market.

Favourite place to shop in My Little Sunshine in Chelsea.

Secret shop Fishs Eddy.  So unlike me to fall in love with a ‘ware’ shop.

Staple style As my husband says, ‘anything that a 15-year-old boy would wear’.

Bar to while away the evenings Bowery Bar at the Bowery hotel.

Favourite culinary delight There are too many to limit to one, digging into fresh lobsters at Ed’s Lobster or having the best tacos in town at Chelsea Market. Fresh hand rolled bagels at Brooklyn Bagel. The vibe at Rosarito’s Fish Shack in Williamsburg is Brooklyn’s home for the greatest hipsters. Mole’s guac – yes. Jay-Z and Bono’s, The Spotted Pig wins for the best burger in town (tied with uptown’s hidden burger joint at Le Parker Meridien), both are worth the wait. The Milo’s special. Hands down, the best Lebanese food is at Ilili. And the list goes on.

Music to listen to while there Live music or vinyls. Right now we’re jamming to Feyrouz.

Cinema, theatre or club Theatre. I recently went to see Chet Faker.

Adventure spot Catskills.

Best workout Running after a two-year old.

Favourite workout spot Running on the piers by the Hudson River.

Best place to rest your head My pillow.

Chill out spot Our home.

Favourite place to watch the sunset At the piers on the Hudson River.

Favourite sunbathing spot Our rooftop. Best view, best deck chairs and best sunshine!

Place to get lost in The streets of Manhattan have a way of keeping you constantly stimulated and lost.

Favourite spot to design On my couch with a view that changes with the seasons.