SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025

MARIA MANETTI SHREM

Ingenieur Automatic 42, Ref. 3389

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California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

1 BLANDING LANE

1 BLANDING LANE

Magni cent New Construction with Breathtaking Views of San Francisco Bay

4,996

4,996

Discover a newly constructed coastal estate where world-class design meets the most iconic views in the Bay Area. Perched on the coveted tip formerly known as 465 Belvedere Avenue panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Bay Bridge, Angel Island, and the East Bay.

Discover a newly constructed coastal estate where world-class design meets the most iconic views in the Bay Area. Perched on the coveted tip formerly known as 465 Belvedere Avenue panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Bay Bridge, Angel Island, and the East Bay.

Designed by acclaimed architect David Kotzebue, the home reflects a perfect balance of modern elegance and timeless sophistication. Every element has been thoughtfully considered—from handcrafted white oak finishes and cedar ceilings to Spanish stone accents and soaring 18-foot vaulted ceilings.

Designed by acclaimed architect David Kotzebue, the home reflects a perfect balance of modern elegance and timeless sophistication. Every element has been thoughtfully considered—from handcrafted white oak finishes and cedar ceilings to Spanish stone accents and soaring 18-foot vaulted ceilings.

The heart of the home is a stunning great room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a dramatic stone terrace. The outdoor living space features a 46-foot infinity edge pool, fully appointed pool house with wet bar and appliances, and a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen—ideal for

The heart of the home is a stunning great room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a dramatic stone terrace. The outdoor living space features a 46-foot infinity edge pool, fully appointed pool house with wet bar and appliances, and a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen—ideal for

Inside, a chef’s kitchen awaits with Italian marble, custom oak cabinetry, dual dishwashers, a six-burner Miele range, and Sub-Zero refrigeration. The luxurious primary suite boasts breathtaking views and a spa-inspired bathroom with steam shower, marble soaking tub, and a custom walk-in

Inside, a chef’s kitchen awaits with Italian marble, custom oak cabinetry, dual dishwashers, a six-burner Miele range, and Sub-Zero refrigeration. The luxurious primary suite boasts breathtaking views and a spa-inspired bathroom with steam shower, marble soaking tub, and a custom walk-in

Additional en-suite bedrooms o er private terraces and panoramic views, creating a resort-like experience for family and guests. Every level of the home is connected to outdoor space, maximizing natural light and indoor-outdoor living.

Additional en-suite bedrooms o er private terraces and panoramic views, creating a resort-like experience for family and guests. Every level of the home is connected to outdoor space, maximizing natural light and indoor-outdoor living.

Set on a 0.38-acre lot surrounded by open space and lush trees, this private retreat is just minutes from Tiburon’s vibrant downtown, two prestigious yacht clubs, ferry service to San Francisco and Angel Island, and scenic bayfront paths.

Set on a 0.38-acre lot surrounded by open space and lush trees, this private retreat is just minutes from Tiburon’s vibrant downtown, two prestigious yacht clubs, ferry service to San Francisco and Angel Island, and scenic bayfront paths.

With top-rated schools, world-class amenities, and limited access to Belvedere Island, this is one of the most exclusive and desirable addresses in

With top-rated schools, world-class amenities, and limited access to Belvedere Island, this is one of the most exclusive and desirable addresses in Olivia Hsu Decker |

Located on the coveted West Shore in Belvedere, this approx. 2,846 sq ft, 3-bedroom, 3-bath waterfront home features a state-of-the-art kitchen with a large Caesarstone island. All bathrooms boast limestone floors and Caesarstone

home into a waterfront, resort-like design with high ceilings and huge windows to enjoy the breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay.

Known for creating calm, welcoming spaces that showcase his modern aesthetic, Martin reimagined this sunny, bright

This beautiful waterfront home, once owned by award-winning designer Martin Kobus, was fully renovated in 2011-2012.

$22,000 per month.

A fully furnished, resort-like rental for your home away from home: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2,846 sq ft.

MAGNIFICENT RESORT-LIKE DESIGNER HOME ON SAN FRANCISCO BAY AT PRESTIGIOUS BELVEDERE WEST SHORE

room includes a TV and built-in desk. The dining room and kitchen combo share a large fireplace and expansive view windows; two bedrooms, each with a full bath on the main floor, have direct access to the Bay and garden. All main floor rooms open onto a spacious 1,000+ square foot waterfront deck for gracious outdoor entertaining. The luxurious second-floor master suite includes a fireplace, walk-in closets, a cozy office area, and a terrace overlooking the Bay.

Wide plank French light oak floors are throughout the entire home. Almost every room enjoys spectacular views of the Bay, San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, Mount Tam, and beyond. There is a gated garden and a 2-car garage plus ample street parking.

Belvedere is recognized as the safest community in the Bay Area, and West Shore Road is the widest street in Belvedere, offering ample space for biking, walking, and parking. It is also the best yachting location on San Francisco Bay, with easy access to the Corinthian Yacht Club and San Francisco Yacht Club. Belvedere Park and

downtown Tiburon are just a short distance away, where you can catch concerts, buses, and ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, and enjoy a dozen great restaurants including Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank bistro, the iconic Sam’s Cafe, Luna Blue, and Salt & Pepper.

downtown Tiburon are just a short distance away, where you can catch concerts, buses, and ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, and enjoy a dozen great restaurants including Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank bistro, the iconic Sam’s Cafe, Luna Blue, and Salt & Pepper.

This fully furnished home is available for rent at $22,000 per month and may also consider a sale for serious buyers only. For more pictures please visit www.55WestShore.com, or contact Olivia Decker via email at Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com. B

This fully furnished home is available for rent at $22,000 per month and may also consider a sale for serious buyers only. For more pictures please visit www.55WestShore.com, or contact Olivia Decker via email at Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com.

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PUBLISHER + EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Olivia Hsu Decker Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Michelle Restante Michelle@HauteLivingSF.com

DIGITAL MARKETING DIRECTOR

Krisha Chhaganlal Krisha@HauteLivingSF.com

COPY EDITOR Karen M. Smith

LUXURY AND CHARITY EVENT AMBASSADORS

Jennifer Boden, Aubrey Brewster, Jennifer Raiser, Claudia Ross, Adam Routledge, and Olivia de Santis

HEALTH & WELLNESS AMBASSADOR

Lydia Graham

LUXURY AUTO AMBASSADOR Tim Lappen

INVESTMENT AMBASSADOR

Charles R. Johnson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Krisha Chhaganlal, Laurie Jo Miller Farr, Adrienne Faurote, Becca Hensley, Fran Endicott Miller and Laura Schreffler

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SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES

Olivia Hsu Decker

Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com

ON THE COVER

HAUTE HOTEL

44 Casa Palermo considers privacy, generosity, and comfort as the default, not upgrades.

The performing arts’ new season kicks off in grand style.

San Francisco Opera Guild’s annual Evening on the Stage gala honors Maria Manetti Shrem for her contributions to San Francisco Opera and other arts organizations. HAUTE EVENT

24 Festival Napa Valley celebrates artistic excellence with over 70 events and 350+ artists.

30 The San Francisco Symphony’s Opening Gala kicks off the much-anticipated 202526 season.

32 The V Foundation’s 2025 Wine Celebration raises $12.3 million supporting cutting-edge cancer research.

34 More than an exhibition, the Fall Show celebrates a stunning range of art.

36 Myth, majesty, and “give us more!” all describe the San Francisco Opera’s 202526 season.

48 For the traveling art aficionado, there are no better places to stay than these.

52 From a warm welcome to a renowned wine list, San Ysidro Ranch offers a sublime retreat.

56 Four Seasons Silicon Valley offers a refined retreat in the heart of tech.

58 Anantara’s luxury hotels in Amalfi and Rome deliver stunning views and wondrous hospitality.

HAUTE TRAVEL

60 90210: This glamorous ZIP Code™ never fails to impress.

64 Find your spotlight in West Hollywood, where entertainment never stops.

66 Golfers delight! These resorts offer luxury, great cuisine, and championship golf courses.

70 Pip-pip and cheerio! A haute guide to the most luxurious hotels in London

76 HAUTE WELLNESS

W Scottsdale elevates their spa offering with Aescape’s AI-powered massage.

80 HAUTE JOAILLERIE

Louis Vuitton unveils its new high jewelry collection, the Virtuosity High Jewelry collection

90 HAUTE TIME

Chanel, Hublot, Omega, and TAG Heuer unveil both beauty and boldness in horology.

HAUTE AUTO

94 Behind the scenes at the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, plus take a spin in the driver’s seat of the 2025 McLaren 750S.

96 Highlights from 2025 Monterey Car Week, including Pebble Beach Concours, Best of Show Hispano-Suiza, Dacora’s debut, the Lamborghini lineup, and British supercars.

106 HAUTE RESIDENCE

Villa Tardieu: One of the most prestigious estates in France could be yours.

HAUTE AMBASSADOR

110 Art is good for cognitive health, so a visit to the Monterey Museum of Art is just what the doctor ordered.

112 Aubrey’s Thanksgiving traditions: elegant yet simple tips for hosting a memorable holiday feast.

116 The Accidental Vineyard by Richard A. Moran celebrates family, community, and the beauty of creating a life rooted in purpose.

118 Inheriting wealth may be a cofusing a complicated process. Here are some considerations.

EVENTS CALENDAR

CURRENT

THROUGH SEPT. 28

de Young | Matisse’s Unbound

In the final decades of a prolific career, modern artist Henri Matisse (1869-1954) took up book illustration. This exhibition celebrates the museum’s 2024 acquisition of Jazz, Matisse’s 1947 artist book on the circus and theater. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr. famsf.org THROUGH OCT. 5

Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-64 | de Young, San Francisco

Due to popular demand, the Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm exhibit was extended. Get a behind-the-scenes look into the meteoric rise of Beatlemania, organized by London’s National Portrait Gallery. famsf.org

SEPTEMBER

SEPT. 4-6

San Francisco Symphony | Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience

A new film concert takes fans on an epic onscreen cinematic journey covering 23 films. Revisit the earliest days of Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor as they discover their place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave. sfsymphony.org

SEPT. 5

San Francisco Opera | Opera Ball

Bravo! Haute Living, San Francisco is a proud media partner for a glamorous opening night experience at the year’s biggest fundraiser. Featuring Rigoletto (tickets sold separately) with red carpet and cocktails, formal dinner, and afterparty. Presented by San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Opera Guild, with proceeds supporting the future of opera programming and education in the Bay Area. City Hall and War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfopera.com

In a word: weather! Here’s a sunny preview of our famed cultural trio: San Francisco’s opera, ballet, and symphony season bring arts and entertainment into the spotlight. Once again, Haute Living, San Francisco is a proud media sponsor of the glamorous Opera Ball opening night, the 43rd San Francisco Fall Show, and the Mill Valley Film Festival. Enjoy! BY

LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

SEPT. 5-27 (VARIOUS DATES)

San Francisco Opera |

Giuseppe Verdi’s operatic masterpiece is a study in dualities: cynicism and tenderness, hope and despair. Richly designed renaissance couture is set against a striking backdrop. Music Director Eun Sun Kim leads the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and Chorus in a continuation of her multi-year exploration of the works of Verdi. sfopera.com

SEPT. 7

San Francisco Opera | 50th Anniversary Opera in the Park

An annual tradition is free to all presented by the San Francisco Chronicle. Music Director Eun Sun

Kim leads San Francisco Opera Orchestra in an afternoon of arias and ensembles performed by stars from the 2025–26 season. 1:30 p.m. Robin Williams Meadow, Golden Gate Park. sfopera.com

SEPT. 9 - OCT. 5

BroadwaySF |

Maizy and Beau are getting hitched, when the corn that protects their small community starts to die. A Tony Award®-winning team is behind the book, the score, and the direction. Curran Theatre, 445 Geary St. broadwaysf.com

SEPT. 12-21

Flower Piano 10th Anniversary | SF Botanical Garden

A unique and creative 10-day event that transforms the San Francisco Botanical Garden into an alfresco concert hall where everyone is invited to play and listen. A special opening night event at the Flower Piano Lounge features the Montuno Swing Salsa Band with Grammy Awardwinning pianist Christian Tumalan. 1199 9th Ave., Golden Gate Park. sfbg.org

SEPT. 13

San Francisco Symphony | Celebrating Hardly Strictly Bluegrass

Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group perform iconic San Francisco music with the symphony in honor of Nancy Hellman Bechtel and 25 years of HSB. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave. sfsymphony.org

SEPT. 13

31st One Mind Music Festival | TRAIN

An afternoon of wine tastings from dozens of premier Napa Valley vintners while connecting with philanthropists and innovators, capped off with dinner and an intimate concert by Grammywinning band TRAIN. In support of mental health initiatives. Staglin Family Vineyard in Rutherford. onemind.org

SEPT. 18-20

San Francisco Symphony | Gaffigan Conducts Gershwin & Ellington

Immerse yourself in America’s distinctive cultural resource: its music. Hear works by George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, and Carlos Simon in an exhilarating, globe-trotting tour of our national sound. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave. sfsymphony.org

SEPT 18 - OCT. 19

A.C.T. |

Hilarious and heartwarming, this feel-good, award-winning comedy drama about a Korean family-run corner store inspired the popular Netflix hit. American Conservatory Theater, Toni Rembe Theater. 415 Geary St. act-sf.org/kims

SEPT. 19

Larkmead Sunset Serenade

At the historic winery, a leisurely late afternoon of wine and live music by Brandon Eardley features acoustic guitar with a mix of rock, reggae, folk, Motown, and blues. Larkmead Vineyards, 1100 Larkmead Ln., Calistoga. larkmead.com/events

SEPT. 19-21

Chase Center | Laver Cup 2025

Six of the best men’s tennis players from Europe are pitted against six of their counterparts from the rest of the world over three days of intense team competition. Teams are led by Yannick Noah for Team Europe and Andre Agassi as Team World Captain. 1 Warriors Way. chasecenter.com/events

SEPT. 24 - OCT. 5

Broadway SF |

The world’s most popular musical, this Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon with a magnificent score of great songs has been seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 53 countries in 22 languages. Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St. broadwaysf.com

SEPT. 25-27

Valley of the Moon Vintage Fest

Two centuries ago, the first wine grapes were harvested here. Now they’re celebrated with community-wide festivities in historic Sonoma Plaza. Presented by the Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Foundation. valleyofthemoonvintagefestival.org

SEPT. 26-28

68th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival

Since 1958, the world’s longest, continuously running jazz festival has been held on a 20-acre, oak-studded venue. The nonprofit event stages 79 events over three days and nights on five stages to celebrate America’s creativity and cultural heritage by presenting musicians, composers, and young rising stars. Monterey County Fairgrounds. montereyjazzfest.org

OCT. 2-12

Mill Valley Film Festival

In its 48th year, the 11-day internationally acclaimed cinema event presents a broad variety of new films. Seven venues, 200 filmmakers representing 50 countries in an engaged, community-wide setting. Haute Living, San Francisco is a proud media sponsor. mvff.com

OCT. 3-5

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass

Eighty acts on six stages in Golden Gate Park, the free music festival has been an annual San Francisco hallmark, drawing large crowds for 25 years. hardlystrictlybluegrass.com

OCT. 5-13

Fleet Week

Land, sea, and air. U.S. Navy Blue Angels headline the dramatic airshow over San Francisco Bay during a week filled with concerts and tours of visiting ships, plus a parade of ships along the waterfront. fleetweeksf.org

OCT. 11 - MARCH 1, 2026

Legion of Honor | Manet and Morisot

The first major exhibition dedicated to artistic exchanges between these two French Impressionists. Édouard Manet was the era’s great pioneer of modern painting; Berthe Morisot was the only woman among the original group of artists to exhibit under her own name. Lincoln Park, 100 34th Ave. famsf.com

OCT. 12

Suffs, Broadway SF

157th Italian Heritage Festival & Parade

Since 1869, North Beach has drawn thousands to the popular event, a fun-filled day celebrating the wonderful Italian American community. Featuring sidewalk art, live music, performances, parade floats, pizza, and lots more. sfitalianheritage.org

OCT. 15

43rd San Francisco Fall Show |

Opening Night Gala

Haute Living, San Francisco is pleased to be a media partner (show dates Oct. 16-19), a celebration of the timeless appeal of decorative arts, fashion, photography, and fine art. This year’s theme is “Paradise Found,” at the West Coast’s longest running art show. Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason, 2 Marina Blvd. sffallshow.org

OCT. 18-19

53rd Annual Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival

On historic Main Street between Mill and Spruce streets in the “World Pumpkin Capital” at 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., free. Kicks off Oct. 13 with the Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off. pumpkinfest.miramarevents.com

OCT. 21-26

Broadway San Jose |

Set in Chicago when Prohibition had everyone thirsty for a little excitement, this show won more awards than any in its season: Best Musical by the Drama Desk, The Drama League, and the Outer Critics Circle. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 S Almaden Blvd., San Jose. broadwaysanjose.com

OCT. 23-26

SFJAZZ | Branford Marsalis Quartet

Jazz Master Branford Marsalis represents “the highest echelon of jazz tenor saxophonists” says the Los Angeles Times. Presenting the music of Keith Jarrett in the Belonging Tour. 201 Franklin St. sfjazz.org

OCT 22 - NOV. 9

BroadwaySF |

Direct from Broadway, comes the acclaimed Tony Award-winning musical about the brilliant, passionate, and funny American women who fought tirelessly for the right to vote. Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St. broadwaysf.com

Oct. 25 - Nov. 13

San Francisco Opera |

For the first time in 25 years, Wagner’s final opera returns in a brand new San Francisco Opera production directed by Matthew Ozawa. Music Director Eun Sun Kim continues her exploration of Wagner’s works through this sublime score, brought to life with a cast of Wagnerian superstars joined by the San Francisco Opera Orchestra, chorus and dancers. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfopera.com

OCT. 28 - NOV. 23

BroadwaySF |

It’s 1976 again. The most Tony-nominated play of all time gives audiences a look into the hyperrealistic studio side of a Fleetwood Mac-style band making an album. Curran Theatre, 445 Geary St. broadwaysf.org

OCT. 29-30

San Francisco Symphony | and Film with live orchestra presents Disney/Pixar’s Coco, featuring music by Michael Giacchino on the 29th . Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo with music by Bernard Herrmann, is presented the following evening. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave. sfsymphony.org

OCT. 30-31

Grace Cathedral | Halloween Silent Films

The sacred space of Grace Cathedral transforms into a grand movie palace for two special, spooky screenings of silent film classics, Phantom of the Opera (1925) and Nosferatu (1922), accompanied by the 7,500 pipe organ played by renowned organist and composer Dorothy Papadakos. 8 p.m. 1100 California St. sfjazz.org

OCT. 31 - DEC. 7

Berkeley Rep |

Outside Lands

A compelling, tender, and funny tale of the Webb sisters’ return to their childhood home in an English seaside town. West Coast debut following acclaimed West End and Broadway productions. Roda Theatre, 2015 Addison St., Berkeley. berkeleyrep.org

The Art of Is the Art of LIVING GIVING

PHILANTHROPIST MARIA MANETTI SHREM SUPPORTING THE ARTS, MUSIC, EDUCATION, HEALTH & SCIENCE

BY OLIVIA HSU DECKER

San Francisco Opera Guild’s An Evening on the Stage Gala honors a leading philanthropist who contributed to San Francisco Opera and the Opera’s community outreach and education programs. Maria Manetti Shrem, the 2025 honoree, is very much expected and anticipated by San Francisco Opera patrons who have seen her name on the programs, on the stage screen, and on almost every opera production as underwriter or sponsor for many years and enjoyed her generosity. I am very excited to be a member of the honorary host committee this year to honor her at An Evening on the Stage gala for her extraordinary contributions to San Francisco Opera, San Francisco Opera Guild, and the arts and music education in our community. Please join me at the event on November 19. Tickets and detail information available at SFOpera.com/Stage-Dinner.

n November 19, 2025, Maria Manetti Shrem will be honored at the annual An Evening on Stage gala by the San Francisco Opera Guild for her generous donations over 30 years to San Francisco Opera productions and the opera education programs. This is just the newest honor for Maria.

Maria’s philanthropic endeavors far exceed the San Francisco Opera. Since 1995, I have had the pleasure of meeting her at various charity events hosted by Festival Napa Valley, the San Francisco Symphony, SF MoMa, ArtSmart, the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, Sutter Health-CPMC and the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital. In 2021 when I sold her magnificent Villa Mille Rose vineyard estate in Oakville, I asked Maria for her advice on giving, and she told me: “Give with your warm hands and get involved with the people and help them flourish with your support and donations.” Her advice inspired me to give while alive and work with the charities in which I am now actively involved. I established the Olivia Decker Power of Music Series in 2021 for year-round concerts with world class performers and young, talented musicians at iconic locations. I still have a long way to go to follow the path of Maria’s long, amazing history of supporting the arts, music, education, health, and science.

Writing about Maria’s fascinating opera-worthy life would require a whole book. Mauro Aprile Zanetti, her philanthropy strategist and biographer, is creating a biopic documentary about her life “to motivate youth and inspire other benefactors to give with warm hands.”

Her remarkable contributions started when she was a young, single woman in the early 1970s. Maria Manetti Shrem, born in Florence, Italy, relocated to San Francisco in 1972. She played a pivotal role in the internationalization of some of the world’s most iconic fashion brands, such as Gucci, Fendi, and Mark Cross, under the umbrella brand of Manetti-Farrow Incorporated. She developed an innovative distribution system in North America, significantly expanding their global market presence.

In the early 1990s, Maria created one of the most elegant estates in Napa Valley, Villa Mille Rose, where she hosted international artists and celebrities, including Luciano Pavarotti, Sophia Loren, Renée Fleming, Plácido Domingo, Nancy Pelosi, Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, Isabel Allende, Marchese Piero Antinori, Paloma Picasso, Sherry Lansing, William Friedkin, and Andrea Bocelli. As a result, she established herself as the quintessential ambassador of “Made in Italy” creations and as an enduring icon of beauty, art, philanthropy, and the Italian lifestyle in the San Francisco Bay Area. She currently spends her time between San Francisco, Napa and Florence and enjoys traveling all over the world, continuing to learn about contemporary art and the most refined wine-making brands while supporting charitable causes with her presence, time, and passion.

Maria and her late husband, Jan Shrem (1930-2024), have long contributed philanthropic support within the fields of education (colleges and high schools), fine arts (museums), performing arts centers (operatic and symphonic concert halls), medical research (hospitals) to nonprofit organizations in the U.S., Italy, the

U.K., France, Mexico, and Africa. The Manetti Shrem Foundation currently supports over 55 charitable programs across 40-plus foundations, with favorites in the U.S. including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, UC Davis, the San Francisco Opera, Festival Napa Valley, UC Berkeley-Cal Performances, KQED, Francisco Park (community garden), the San Francisco Symphony, SF Film (naming the award for acting), SF MoMA, ArtSmart, KDFC, and hospitals such as UCSF (neurology, orthopedics, urology) and Sutter Health-CPMC (cardiology, acute care for elderly, healthy aging research program). In Europe, Maria is one of the principal benefactors of the King’s Foundation, Royal Drawing School, American Friends of the Louvre, Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Museo 900, Friends of Versailles, the Venetian Heritage, the Italian National Trust (FAI), Palazzo Strozzi Foundation, and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation with which she has supported the construction of four new schools, including the latest one at the Meyer Children’s Hospital. The Manetti Shrems are founders and lifetime members of the Cabo Jewish Center. Maria also funded a scholarship in Africa at Global Sojourns Giving Circle to empower tomorrow’s women leaders.

The Manetti Shrems are co-founders of the Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art at UC Davis, which opened its doors on November 13, 2016, realizing a goal that was 60 years in the making. The museum’s collection includes works by major California artists such as Wayne Thiebaud, William T. Wiley, Robert Arneson, Roy De Forest, Ruth Horsting, Manuel Neri, and Roland Petersen. The museum reserves 30% of its space for educational and hands-on projects. It provides a dedicated area for workshops in the Florentine Renaissance tradition of the so-called “Bottega dell’Arte,” where art students can learn by doing. The extraordinary architectural design of the museum—which was praised in ARTnews as “One of the World’s

25 Best Museum Buildings of the Past 100 Years,” curated by New York-based architect Florian Idenburg (SO-IL)—has already won 18 awards (six from international organizations). It is also listed as one of the nation’s top 10 teaching museums. The Manetti Shrem Museum has been selected as one of the 50 projects featured in the 2025 Venice Biennale in the U.S. Pavilion as an outspoken example of “an architecture of generosity.”

Maria Manetti Shrem has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions as an outstanding and influential cultural ambassador, especially for strengthening the relationships between the U.S. and Italy, California and Tuscany, the San Francisco Bay Area and Florence. She has been honored as a cultural ambassador and philanthropist in the USA and Italy. In 2019, President Sergio Mattarella of Italy bestowed upon her the title of Grand Officer of the Order of the Star of Italy for promoting Italian culture and business in the USA. On March 16, 2022, the mayor of Florence, Dario Nardella, awarded her the keys of the City of Florence as an inspiring role model of patronage following the Renaissance legacy of the Medici family and defining her as “the new Elettrice Palatina”—the last heiress of the Medici dynasty.

On June 22, 2022, Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem were the inaugural recipients of The Angels of the Arts Award, Festival Napa Valley’s highest honor. On the same occasion, San Franciso Mayor London Breed, along with the county and the city, proclaimed June 22 as Manetti Shrem Day, dedicated to fostering philanthropy. On December 3, 2022, during a celebratory event, Maria–50 Years in

Left: Maria Manetti Shrem at the annual gala of the Manetti Shrem Museum with Mauro Aprile Zanetti, Arturo Galansino (director of Palazzo Strozzi, Florence), Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo (founder of Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo), and her husband, Agostino.

America, organized by SF Opera and SF Symphony and designed and curated by Eva Zanetti, the San Francisco City Hall rotunda was illuminated in the colors of the Italian flag to honor Maria’s unparalleled philanthropic activity. At the end of the last performance of La Traviata, San Francisco Opera honored her with their highest community recognition, The Spirit of the Opera Award. It was presented to her onstage, where she bowed hand in hand with the performers before 3,000 patrons.

On June 18, 2023, Maria Manetti Shrem was awarded the 2023 UC Davis Medal honorary degree as the most prominent patron of the arts at UC Davis. The medal is “the highest honor the university presents to individuals in recognition of extraordinary contributions that embody the campus’ vision.” Past honorees include former President of the United States of America Bill Clinton, painter Wayne Thiebaud, 2020 Nobel Prize winner Charles Rice, and fellow philanthropists Margrit and Robert Mondavi.

UC Berkeley recognized the Manetti Shrems as Builders of Berkeley for their consistent and relevant support to the college. In spring 2024, Maria made history by endowing the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis with its largest gift ever, establishing eight endowments to protect the arts and humanities in perpetuity. Her visionary donation integrates arts, humanities, design, fashion, and textiles, creating a “Renaissance zeitgeist” through the establishment of a dedicated art district, inaugurated in January 2025.

In recognition of her global philanthropy, Maria received the 2024 Premio StellaRe from Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo in Torino, Italy. In spring 2025, Maria Manetti Shrem was presented the California Performing Arts Visionary Award for her outstanding philanthropy, specifically underwriting the first California Orchestra residency of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at Cal Performances, UC Berkeley, led by guest conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin and starring pianist Yefim Bronfman.

On the celebratory occasion of the naming of the Maria Manetti Shrem Emerging Artists Program at the Academy of Il Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Maria was awarded the Pegaso d’Oro, the highest honor of the Region of Tuscany. Because of her impactful philanthropy, she is also a 2025 Ellis Island Medal of Honor recipient. Maria Manetti Shrem continues to lead with vision and generosity, shaping cultural landscapes and enriching lives across the globe. I am very excited to be a member of the honorary host committee to honor her at An Evening on the Stage gala for her long-standing contributions to the San Francisco Opera. Please join me at the event on November 19. Tickets and information available at SFOpera.com/Stage-Dinner.

Festival Napa Valley 2025: A Celebration of Artistic Excellence

BY OLIVIA HSU DECKER

PHOTOS DREW ALTIZER

IN JULY FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY CAPTIVATED AUDIENCES WITH a harmonious blend of world class music, exceptional wine, culinary excellence, and vibrant community engagement. With over 70 events presented throughout Napa Valley and a mission of bringing the arts to all, the festival’s 2025 season offered something for everyone.

The festival’s summer season, presented by J.P. Morgan, brought together more than 350 internationally renowned and emerging artists for a celebration of artistic excellence. Highlights included unforgettable performances by Jon Batiste, Joyce DiDonato, Tessa Lark, and Tiler Peck. Festival programming spanned opera, jazz, ballet, symphonic music, film, and wellness.

This season’s Olivia Decker Power of Music concert featured Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite, performed by the Pacific Symphony and pianist Tianxu An. Conducted by Gavriel Heine and presented as part of the Festival’s China Cultural Exchange, the concert highlighted Festival Napa Valley’s role in fostering international artistic collaboration.

The festival’s signature celebration of food and wine—Taste of Napa—brought together 100 wineries, breweries, and culinary artisans at The Meritage Resort and Spa. Over 1,000 guests enjoyed a festive afternoon of wine tastings, gourmet bites, music, and interactive experiences that showcased the best of Napa Valley’s hospitality.

The Versailles Royal Opera made its North American debut with Donizetti’s Fille du régiment on the Festival Napa Valley Stage at Charles Krug. Directed by Jean-Romain Vesperini, the production received multiple standing ovations. The Versailles Royal Opera Orchestra also performed at Tatiana and Gerret Copeland’s Olive Hill Estate, providing the occasion for the festival’s 2025 Opus One Premiere, Embarquement pour Cythère, composed by Forrest Eimold.

The season concluded with a dazzling symphonic finale featuring Festival Orchestra Napa and conductor Stéphane Denève in a program of Berlioz, Mendelssohn, and Prokofiev. The performance was brought to life with original artwork created by students and seniors during the festival’s year-round How I See Music workshops.

Audiences of all ages were welcomed at family-friendly programs, including a screening of Walt Disney’s Fantasia with live orchestra, two Novack Concerts for Kids, and a new Family Zone at Charles Krug that offered creative activities for children each evening.

The Frost School of Music at Festival Napa Valley’s Blackburn Music Academy hosted 60 emerging instrumentalists for an intensive three-week residency, with performances, master classes, and mentorship by faculty from leading orchestras and the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. The Manetti Shrem Opera Program welcomed 13 vocalists and collaborative pianists, offering high-level training tuition-free as part of the festival’s commitment to nurturing the next generation.

The Bouchaine Young Artist Series spotlighted pianists Harmony Zhu, Jaeden Izik-Dzurko, and Maxim Lando in intimate, admissionfree recitals that showcased extraordinary rising talent.

The festival also launched its new music and wellness program with a day-long symposium at the CIA at Copia, exploring the transformative power of music on health and well-being. The event featured a keynote by neuroscientist and bestselling author Dr. Daniel J. Levitin, expert-led panels on brain health, stress reduction, and youth mental health, a Festival Live! performance, and a screening of Ennio, celebrating the life and legacy of Ennio Morricone. Morricone’s music was also honored during Maria Manetti Celebrates La Dolce Vita! at Charles Krug and Castello di Amorosa.

Festival Napa Valley’s 20th anniversary season next summer promises to be even more spectacular. Passes for the Patron Experience (July 10-19, 2026) are on sale and will sell out quickly. Reserve your spot now!

San Francisco Symphony’s 2025-26 Opening Gala: A Night of Grandeur and Musical Mastery

BY CLAUDIA ROSS

THE SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY IS SET TO COMMENCE ITS 2025-26 season with its annual Opening Gala on September 12 at Davies Symphony Hall. This highly anticipated event will feature renowned conductor Jaap van Zweden and prodigious pianist Yuja Wang, who will perform the iconic Piano Concerto No. 1 by Tchaikovsky. With a program that seamlessly blends classical staples and contemporary compositions, the evening promises to celebrate not only artistic excellence but also the symphony’s vital role in enriching the San Francisco community.

As the symphony’s season opener, the gala is not merely a concert; it’s an immersive experience. The festivities will commence at 5:30 p.m. with a preconcert lobby reception where guests can indulge in complimentary beverages and light bites, courtesy of McCalls Catering and Events, while enjoying preconcert entertainment.

Wang’s interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s work is sure to be a highlight. Known for her technical prowess and expressive artistry, Wang has captivated audiences worldwide, and her performance with the San Francisco Symphony will be no exception. The program will also feature John Adams’ exhilarating Short Ride in a Fast Machine, a

thrilling orchestral piece that reflects the composer’s signature style, paired with Ottorino Respighi’s evocative Pines of Rome, which paints a lush auditory landscape inspired by the Italian capital.

Following the concert, the evening will continue with lively festivities, including a live DJ and a photo booth, allowing attendees to extend their night in style. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP sponsorship packages offer an enhanced evening, complete with a preconcert cocktail reception and a seated dinner in the Zellerbach Rehearsal Hall. This year’s gala is supported by a host committee of prominent figures within the symphony’s community, including Solomon B. Cera, Tiffany Chang, and Aditi Iyer, among others.

The Opening Gala is not just about the music; it serves a greater purpose. Proceeds from the event directly benefit the symphony’s artistic, education, and community programs, ensuring the institution remains a pillar of cultural enrichment in the Bay Area. The San Francisco Symphony has long been dedicated to engaging the community, providing educational opportunities for students and nurturing the next generation of musicians through its extensive initiatives.

This year’s gala stands out not only for its musical offerings but also for its emphasis on community engagement. The symphony’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in other upcoming events, such as the All San Francisco Concert on September 11, which honors local organizations working towards social justice and equity in the Bay Area.

As the evening draws near, the excitement surrounding the gala is palpable. The blend of iconic repertoire, the prestige of world class musicians, and the symphony’s dedication to community engagement all coalesce to create an event that is not only a celebration of music but also a testament to the transformative power of the arts.

For those wishing to attend this remarkable evening, tickets and dining packages are available now at sfsymphony.org/gala.

Experience the magic of the San Francisco Symphony as it embarks on another season filled with extraordinary performances and artistic innovation. The 2025-26 Opening Gala is set to be an unforgettable night that resonates with the rich cultural tapestry of San Francisco and beyond. We at Haute Living, San Francisco look forward to seeing you there!

Harry Rhoads, co-founder, Washington Speakers Bureau; George Bodenheimer, former president of ESPN; 2025 Spirit of Jimmy V Award

Jamie Valvano; and Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski at the Gala & Auction

V Foundation for Cancer Research Wine Celebration Raises $12.3 Million

Now in its 27th year, the Wine Celebration has raised over $180 million to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives.

BY JENNIFER BODEN

THE V FOUNDATION WINE CELEBRATION BROUGHT MORE THAN 500 guests to Napa Valley from July 31 to August 3. Money raised supports scientists who are advancing cancer breakthroughs. In total, the V Foundation has awarded more than 1,330 grants since its founding, supporting the most cutting-edge cancer research at top cancer centers across North America. John Anthony Family of Wines presented this annual event.

“The Wine Celebration truly highlights the generosity of the V Foundation community and passion for supporting bold ideas and scientists who dig deep into cancer’s most complex challenges,” said Clark Kinlin, interim CEO of the V Foundation. “The urgent need for research is clear, and the Wine Celebration directly fuels this lifesaving work. One hundred percent of event proceeds will directly benefit cancer research, and we are immensely grateful that

this event’s continued success allows us to carry out Jim Valvano’s dream of funding the best of the best every year.”

Highlights of the weekend included: Dinner with the Docs, an intimate starlit dinner at Inglenook Winery alongside members of the V Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC).

President’s & Vintner Grant Honoree Luncheon at Auberge du Soleil, celebrating 2025 Vintner Grant Honorees Craig and Kathryn Hall, proprietors of Hall Wines, Walt Wines, and Baca Wines.

Rock the V, a “sip and stroll” experience at the Estate Yountville with 60-plus chef and vintner stations and live music by Grammynominated singer-songwriter Maggie Rose.

GRAMMY-nominated singersongwriter

Gala

Vintner

Krzyzewski Family Cancer Research Symposium at The Social at Estate Yountville, where guests learned firsthand from V Foundation grantees about advances in cancer research.

Gala & Auction, hosted at Nickel & Nickel Winery, featuring a multicourse meal prepared by chef Rebecca Weitzman and a live auction of 26 remarkable lots.

V Foundation board member and Duke men’s basketball icon Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski hosted the Wine Celebration Gala & Auction for the 18th time. ESPN college basketball analyst Chris Spatola joined him onstage.

The evening included a robust program with a surprise honor for Jamie Valvano, daughter of V Foundation founder Jim Valvano (1946-1993), as she celebrates 20 years cancer-free. She received the Spirit of Jimmy V Award for her tireless advocacy for cancer research and lifelong commitment to carrying on her father’s legacy. Fellow Spirit of Jimmy V honorees, George Bodenheimer, retired Executive Chairman, ESPN, Inc., and Harry Rhoads, cofounder, Washington Speakers Bureau, joined her onstage.

From the stage, Valvano said, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart, not only as a cancer survivor, but as a proud daughter. By establishing the V Foundation over 30 years ago, my dad had not left me alone. He had given me and countless others a game plan and a team of people who could step in when he was gone. I took his hand, walked forward and said, ‘All right, Dad, I’m not going to give up.’ Thirteen years after my dad was diagnosed, my result was different because of cancer research.”

The live auction’s top lots included a 2026 Wimbledon Experience with a winning bid of $300,000, a surprise lot featuring a seven-day private charter of the Omnia yacht at $275,000, and a weeklong escape and golf experience for four people at Exclusive Resorts’ The Eden Club Residences at Pittormie Castle St. Andrews, Scotland for $150,000.

The excitement continued through the Fund-A-Need paddle raise, a special call for cancer prevention and interception funding, including a generous matching gift from Cindy and Evan Goldberg, Board Chair of the V Foundation.

French polychrome enamel butterfly brooch, circa 1880; Dealer: Kentshire

Paradise Found

The 43rd San Francisco Fall Show returns this October

BY KRISHA CHHAGANLAL

MORE THAN AN EXHIBITION, THE FALL SHOW IS A GATHERING of ideas, craftsmanship, and creativity that keeps San Francisco at the center of the design conversation.

This October, the Bay Area’s most celebrated art, antiques, and design fair returns with renewed brilliance as the 43rd edition of the San Francisco Fall Show transforms Fort Mason Center’s Festival Pavilion into Paradise Found.

Running October 16-19, 2025, with the legendary Opening Night Gala on October 15 benefiting the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (FAMSF), the Fall Show promises an immersive experience of beauty, craftsmanship, and discovery.

OPENING NIGHT GALA

The Fall Show begins with the Opening Night Gala on October 15, one of San Francisco’s most anticipated social events. The evening draws nearly 2,000 guests, including collectors, designers, philanthropists, and patrons of the arts. Guests enjoy a first look at the dealers’ collections while supporting the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, making it an evening that unites culture and philanthropy.

A CELEBRATION OF ART & DESIGN

With over 40 renowned dealers from around the globe, the show will showcase a stunning range of treasures spanning centuries and styles. From fine art, photography, and antique furniture to rare jewelry, textiles, silver, and ceramics, the offerings will delight both seasoned collectors and first-time visitors. Highlights include an 18th century English lacquer cabinet, a crystal opal and demantoid garnet ring, and a French enamel butterfly brooch—just a glimpse of the extraordinary finds awaiting discovery.

One-of-a-kind tattooed captain’s credenza; Dealer: BDDW

Aquatint of the Carolina parakeet from the first editing of John James Audubon’s Birds of America;Dealer: Barry Lawrence Ruderman

Crystal opal & demantoid garnet ring; Dealer: Tamzen Z

THE DESIGNER VIGNETTES

A hallmark of the show, the Designer Vignettes will greet guests in the Grand Entry Hall. This year’s designers—Amy Weaver, Cindy Rinfret and Taylor Mattos, David Kleinberg, and Tom Scheerer—will craft extraordinary spaces using pieces borrowed from exhibitors, layered with the exquisite wallcoverings and embroideries of sponsor de Gournay.

STAR-STUDDED LECTURE SERIES

The Fall Show Lecture Series brings together some of the most influential names in design, fashion, and the arts. Guests will hear from Zac Posen, Madison Cox, Michael S. Smith, Suzanne Tucker, Beth Webb, Dara Caponigro, Ben Pentreath, and many more, each offering unique insights into the worlds of creativity and style. With Tommy and Dee Hilfiger serving as honorary co-chairs, the program reinforces the show’s stature as one of the country’s leading cultural events.

A MUST-DO OF THE SEASON

“For anyone interested in art and design, furniture and the decorative arts—buying, collecting, or simply learning—this show is not to be missed,” says show chair Suzanne Tucker. “It’s a Bay Area must-do of the fall social season, with four vibrant days filled with terrific dealers, fascinating lectures, and gobs of eye candy.”

EVENT DETAILS

Opening Night Gala: Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Show Days: Thursday, October 16 - Sunday, October 19, 2025

Location: Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, San Francisco Website: sffallshow.org

SAN FRANCISCO Opera 2025-2026 Season Preview

BY OLIVIA HSU DECKER

THE SAN FRANCISCO OPERA IS PRESENTING EXCITING 2025-2026 season programs with classic operas and new productions. The company’s 103rd season kicks off on September 5, 2025, with an opening weekend celebration under Music Director Eun Sun Kim featuring the annual Opera Ball, co-presented with the San Francisco Opera Guild, Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto starring acclaimed baritone Amartuvshin Enkhbat, and Opera in the Park, the free, annual concert at Golden Gate Park in its 50th year on Sunday, September 7. Keystones of the 2025-26 season include the world premiere of The Monkey King by composer Huang Ruo and librettist David Henry Hwang and a new production of Richard Wagner’s Parsifal.

San Francisco Opera General Director Matthew Shilvock said,

“Bringing two epic new productions to life simultaneously is an incredible affirmation of the company’s talents across so many disciplines and the community’s support for large-scale creativity. A new Parsifal is a major undertaking for any opera company, and to be doing it with the leadership of Eun Sun Kim and Matthew Ozawa promises to be a sublime experience. With The Monkey King and Dead

Man Walking, we celebrate the company’s historic commitment to storytelling that makes a difference. And the whole season is filled with artistry that affirms the Bay Area as one of the great cultural centers of the world. I’m very excited for what lies ahead!”

Music Director Eun Sun Kim said, “Several of opera’s great masterpieces make up our 2025-26 Season. The opener, Rigoletto, was considered by Verdi himself to be his best opera, and Parsifal returns to our stage for the first time in 25 years. Wagner labored for many years on his final work, but the musical language and storytelling in Parsifal are so advanced that, when we do our job in the pit, it is a theatrical experience like no other. Elektra marks a transition for Richard Strauss from the melodic language in his early tone poems to an expansive instrumentation of vast harmonic possibility. The opera is so demanding, especially for the singers, and I am very happy to be conducting this first Elektra of my career with my orchestra and such a wonderful cast. The San Francisco Opera Orchestra and I customarily work together in the orchestra pit, but these musicians, due to their vast experience, can also command the stage. In our fall concert, the orchestra will do just that in Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.”

2025-26 SEASON IN DETAIL

OPENING OF SAN FRANCISCO OPERA’S 103RD SEASON

OPERA BALL

Friday, September 5, 2025, at 5 P.M.

San Francisco Opera’s opening night Opera Ball, co-presented with the San Francisco Opera Guild, is one of the premier events on the Bay Area’s philanthropic and social calendars. The annual fundraiser begins with a cocktail reception and formal dinner at City Hall. Guests then proceed to the opera house for the opening of the new season with Music Director Eun Sun Kim leading Verdi’s Rigoletto. Dancing and late-night bites await back at City Hall after the performance. The Opera Ball is made possible, in part, by Opening Weekend Grand Sponsor Diane B. Wilsey and is co-chaired by Jennifer Bienaimé and Isabel Rhee. Proceeds benefit a wide range of artistic initiatives of the San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Opera Guild’s education programs, which reach thousands in K-12 classrooms and after-school programs.

RIGOLETTO by Giuseppe Verdi

September 5–27, 2025

San Francisco Opera’s 103rd season opens with Rigoletto, one of the most popular and powerful operas in the repertoire. Giuseppe Verdi’s 1851 tragic work follows the titular jester who mocks the Duke of Mantua’s courtiers while attempting to shelter his daughter from their depraved world. Music Director Eun Sun Kim leads this fast-paced classic, which includes some of the composer’s most heartrending and buoyant music like the famous aria “La donna è mobile.” Following his 2024 company debut in Verdi’s Un Ballo in Maschera, Mongolian baritone Amartuvshin Enkhbat returns as Rigoletto. Romanian soprano Adela Zaharia, who portrayed Donna Anna in Mozart’s Don Giovanni in 2022 and was last seen here in the 100th Anniversary Concert, plays Rigoletto’s daughter, Gilda. Italian tenor Giovanni Sala makes his American opera debut as the Duke of Mantua. Mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges, who has portrayed Carmen with the company and was featured in the In Song series, plays Maddalena. Chinese bass Peixin Chen joins the Company as Sparafucile, and baritone Aleksey Bogdanov as Monterone. Jose Maria Condemi directs the San Francisco Opera’s production.

50TH ANNIVERSARY

San Francisco Chronicle Presents

OPERA IN THE PARK

Sunday, September 7, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.

Opening weekend culminates with Opera in the Park, the annual free concert at Robin Williams Meadow in Golden Gate Park. This season’s event marks the 50th presentation of the beloved San Francisco tradition which began in 1971 and has been a showcase for many operatic luminaries, including Marilyn Horne and Luciano Pavarotti. The concert features the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and vocal soloists from the 2025–26 Season under the baton of Eun Sun Kim. Bring your picnic baskets for this al fresco gathering attended by thousands of Bay Area residents and visitors each year.

25TH-ANNIVERSARY PRESENTATION

DEAD MAN WALKING by Jake Heggie and Terrence McNally

September 14–28, 2025

Jake Heggie and Terrence McNally’s Dead Man Walking, based on Sister Helen Prejean’s best-selling memoir, returns to the stage where it all began. Proclaimed “a masterpiece” (San Francisco Chronicle) at its 2000 world premiere, the opera follows Sister Helen’s spiritual journey while she ministers to a condemned man on death row. With 80 productions in 13 countries, Dead Man Walking is the most performed new opera of the last 25 years.

Commissioned by San Francisco Opera, Dead Man Walking was Bay Area composer Jake Heggie’s first work for the opera stage. Over the ensuing 25 years, Heggie has expanded the operatic repertoire with numerous works and has been acknowledged as one of the art form’s leading creators. This year, Heggie will be inducted into the OPERA America Hall of Fame and Musical America named him Composer of the Year (2025) for his work which includes Moby-Dick (2010), Great Scott (2015), It’s a Wonderful Life (2016) and Intelligence (2023). Patrick Summers, who conducted the first production of Dead Man Walking returns to conduct San Francisco Opera’s 25th-anniversary presentation. Created by a consortium of seven American opera companies and now owned by Lyric Opera of Chicago, the production by frequent Heggie collaborator Leonard Foglia exhibits the work of designers Michael McGarty (sets), Jess Goldstein (costumes), Brian Nason (lighting), Elaine McCarthy (projections) and Roger Gans (sound). Katrina Bachus is the associate director.

Just as Dead Man Walking continues to resonate with new audiences, Mezzo-soprano Susan Graham, the first Sister Helen in 2000, returns to the work as Mrs. Patrick De Rocher, the role originated by legendary mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade. Jamie Barton, who has triumphed with San Francisco Opera in works by Bellini, Donizetti, Dvořák and Wagner, portrayal of Sister Helen. Ryan McKinny brings to San Francisco Opera his acclaimed interpretation of death-row inmate Joseph De Rocher. Brittany Renee, following her appearances in Rhiannon Giddens and Michael Abel’s Omar and scheduled return this summer in Puccini’s La Bohème, takes on the role of Sister Helen’s confidante, Sister Rose.

NEW SAN FRANCISCO OPERA PRODUCTION

PARSIFAL by Richard Wagner

October 25–November 13, 2025

Richard Wagner’s Parsifal centers around an improbable hero whose destiny is to lead the Knights of the Holy Grail. For his final work, the iconoclastic poet/composer capitalized on his musical breakthroughs in Tristan und Isolde and the ambitious scope of his Ring of the Nibelung cycle to create a meditation on compassion that bridges Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. Music Director Eun Sun Kim’s exploration of Wagner’s music-dramas brings this masterwork back to the Company’s stage after a 25-year hiatus in a brandnew production by director Matthew Ozawa and a creative team including several collaborators from Ozawa’s critically acclaimed San Francisco Opera production of Orpheus and Eurydice (2022)—costume designer Jessica Jahn, lighting designer Yuki Nakase Link and choreographer Rena Butler— with settings designed by Robert Innes Hopkins, who designed the Company’s recent productions of Tosca and La Traviata.

American tenor Brandon Jovanovich heads a spectacular cast as Parsifal. Wagnerian bass Kwangchul Youn as the Grail knight Gurnemanz, a role for which he is renowned (Youn will sing his 100th performance of the role while in San Francisco).

Baritone Brian Mulligan portrays Amfortas, the Grail order’s leader. Falk Struckmann portrays the fallen knight, Klingsor. Tanja Ariane Baumgartner makes her Company debut as Kundry.

BEETHOVEN & FALLA CONCERT

Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

Following the sold-out performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony in October 2024, Eun Sun Kim and the San Francisco Opera Orchestra return to the opera house stage in a one-night-only concert featuring Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony along with Spanish composer Manuel de Falla’s Siete Canciones Populares Españolas with mezzo-soprano Daniela Mack as soloist and a suite of dances from Falla’s ballet El Sombrero de Tres Picos (The Three-Cornered Hat).

WORLD PREMIERE

The Monkey King by Huang Ruo and David Henry Hwang

November 14–30, 2025

Composer Huang Ruo and librettist David Henry Hwang’s new, action-hero opera The Monkey King begins on November 14 in one of the most highly anticipated world premieres of the opera season. Commissioned by the San Francisco Opera in partnership with the Chinese Heritage Foundation of Minnesota, The Monkey King is based on the opening chapters of Journey to the West, a novel from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) widely considered one of China’s greatest literary classics. The story has been a perennial favorite in Chinese opera for more than a century and, more recently, in film, television, and animation, as well as the 2024 blockbuster video game Black Myth: Wukong, which sold 18 million copies in its first two months.

The story’s debut on the Western opera stage, performed in English and Chinese and uniting the disciplines of opera, dance, and puppetry, follows the ambitious young monkey born from a stone who becomes the ruler of the monkeys and challenges the gods of the seas and heavens in a bid for immortality. Huang Ruo has won extensive praise for his incisive, lyrical works in a variety of musical genres, from his puppet opera Book of Mountains and Seas and oratorio Angel Island to his operatic collaborations with Tony Award®-winning playwright and librettist David Henry Hwang (An American Soldier, The Rift, and M. Butterfly). Hwang’s body of work includes the stage plays M. Butterfly, Yellow Face, and Chinglish, the musical Soft Power with composer Jeanine Tesori, and libretti for operas by Osvaldo Golijov (Ainadamar), Unsuk Chin (Alice in Wonderland), and Bright Sheng (Dream of the Red Chamber, a San Francisco Opera commission).

The Monkey King’s high-octane adventures—from the depths of the sea to his epic battle with the gods in heaven—are balanced

by moments of repose with the goddess Guanyin and a chorus of Bodhisattvas reflecting on the Monkey King’s progress in Buddhist sutras. The Monkey King’s whimsical and fantastical world will be conjured for the stage by American Repertory Theater’s awardwinning artistic director Diane Paulus, renowned puppeteer and Bay Area native Basil Twist (who collaborated with Huang Ruo on Book of Mountains and Seas), costume designer Anita Yavich, choreographer Ann Yee, lighting designer Ayumu “Poe” Saegusa, and projection designer Hana S. Kim, with guidance by Peking Opera consultant Jamie Guan.

Making her San Francisco Opera debut is conductor Carolyn Kuan, music director of the Hartford Symphony since 2011, who led the New York premiere of Huang Ruo’s An American Soldier and the world premiere of M. Butterfly.

Australian-Chinese tenor Kang Wang makes his company debut as the cunning and charismatic Monkey King. As Guanyin, the Chinese goddess of compassion, soprano Mei Gui Zhang returns after prior successes as Dai Yu in Dream of the Red Chamber. South Korean tenor Konu Kim plays the role of the Jade Emperor. South Korean baritone Jusung Gabriel Park makes his company debut in the dual roles of the Taoist teacher Subhuti and Buddha. Bass Peixin Chen is Supreme Lord Laozi, and former Adler Fellow baritone Joo Won Kang is Lord Erlang and Ao Guang. Mezzo-soprano Hongni Wu is the Crab General and Venus Star.

Composer Huang Ruo said, “The Monkey King is every bit an inspirational figure known for his wit, humor, righteousness, and power. He is the supreme superhero from Asia, loved and adored not only by the Chinese people throughout the centuries but increasingly by people throughout the world. The Monkey King’s adventures awaken in him an understanding of true power which leads to his self-enlightenment. In our new opera, which blends cultural traditions with a spectacular multidisciplinary production, I hope to bring this Eastern superhero to life and shine a hopeful light that will always appear in any turbulent time.”

The Monkey King

THE BARBER OF SEVILLE by Gioachino Rossini

May 28 - June 21, 2026

THE BARBER OF SEVILLE ENCOUNTER

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

One of opera’s greatest comedies, The Barber of Seville returns to the stage in the San Francisco Opera’s popular production by Spanish director Emilio Sagi. Conductor Benjamin Manis, fresh from his company debut in November/December 2024 leading a sold-out run of Bizet’s Carmen, leads two sparkling casts in Rossini’s tuneful classic about the resourceful barber, Figaro, and the two young lovers he helps to outwit an overbearing guardian.

Joshua Hopkins, last seen with San Francisco Opera as Harry Bailey in Jake Heggie and Gene Scheer’s It’s a Wonderful Life, and debuting baritone Justin Austin alternate as the jack-of-all-trades Figaro. Russian mezzo-soprano Maria Kataeva makes her American debut as Rosina, sharing the role with Chinese mezzo-soprano Hongni Wu, who appeared with the company as Bao Chai in Dream of the Red Chamber and is scheduled to perform in the November 2025 world premiere of The Monkey King. Rosina’s dashing suitor, Count Almaviva, will be performed by South African tenor Levy Sekgapane and American tenor Jack Swanson, both making their house debut. The role of Doctor Bartolo will be performed by baritone Renato Girolami and bass-baritone Patrick Carfizzi, each having made a comedic splash as Dr. Dulcamara in the company’s 2023 performances of Donizetti’s The Elixir of Love. Bass Riccardo Fassi makes his San Francisco Opera debut as Don Basilio.

On Wednesday, June 17, the company’s popular Encounter series continues with The Barber of Seville Encounter. After experiencing a portion of San Francisco Opera’s production of Rossini’s timeless comedy, audiences will emerge from the theater into the Opera House’s transformed lobby and hallway spaces, transporting them into the opera’s setting in Seville. Part opera, part party, the immersive, uniquely San Francisco Opera event offers a new way to experience opera. Recommended for audiences ages 21 and over.

ELEKTRA by Richard Strauss and Hugo von Hofmannsthal June 7–27, 2026

Music Director Eun Sun Kim takes to the podium in June 2026 for Elektra, a staggering work requiring one of the largest pit orchestras in the operatic repertoire. The first of several artistic collaborations by composer Richard Strauss and librettist Hugo von Hofmannsthal, Elektra’s raw energy and emotion find dramatic expression in Keith Warner’s “extraordinary … stunning” (San Francisco Chronicle) production. Directed in revival by Anja Kühnhold, this staging sets the action in a museum where a young woman finds herself trapped in an exhibition about ancient Greece and lives out Elektra’s tragic obsession to avenge her father, Agamemnon.

An extraordinary trio of artists anchors the cast of Elektra. Elena Pankratova makes her company debut in the formidable title role. Michaela Schuster performs Elektra’s embattled mother, Klytämnestra. Elza van den Heever, a former Adler Fellow and San Francisco Conservatory of Music graduate, takes on Chrysothemis, Elektra’s conciliatory sister.

RIDE CONCERT

Friday, June 26, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.

The San Francisco Opera presents its second Pride Concert in the opera house just prior to Pride Weekend. The event will showcase the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and soloists in a program celebrating LGBTQIA+ composers, performers, anthems, and more. More details will be announced at a later date.

While our ocean’s greatest threats are caused by people, we can also be its greatest champions.

Join us in protecting our shared future.

As the world’s largest marine mammal hospital, The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education. Since 1975, we’ve rescued more than 26,000 marine mammals like seals and sea otters. At our state-of-the-art hospital, these animals are rehabilitated with the goal of being released to their ocean home. By caring for marine mammals, we gain unique insights into the health of the ocean, which is inextricably linked to human health and the health of our planet.

Casa Palmero : Pebble Beach’s Most Exclusive Hideaway

A sanctuary for those who value discretion and comfort

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

CARMEL IS NO STRANGER TO CHARMING BOUTIQUE HOTELS.

But within the gates of Pebble Beach—where manicured fairways meet the Monterey Peninsula’s wild Pacific coast— Casa Palmero offers a rare kind of intimacy. With just 24 guest rooms and a long list of thoughtful inclusions, this gracious, Mediterranean-style retreat feels less like a hotel and more like a well-connected friend’s coastal estate.

What you’ll first notice is what is not there. The absence of a valet stand or lobby line signals that things are done differently here. Instead, a staff member welcomes you personally, walks you to your suite, and quietly anticipates your preferences. Before long, you’re sipping a cocktail beside a roaring fire, wondering why more places don’t operate this way.

AN ATMOSPHERE OF EASE

Originally built in the 1920s as a private estate, the Spanish-style residence has been transformed into a sanctuary for those who value discretion and comfort. Sun-dappled courtyards warmed by terra-cotta hues and soft illumination connect the guest rooms and suites. Evenings often descend beneath a blanket of coastal fog—one of the region’s most constant companions—making the glow of the property’s multiple fireplaces all the more inviting.

Most rooms have a fireplace, along with beamed ceilings, oversized soaking tubs, and sumptuous linens. The aesthetic leans Old World, with handcrafted wood furnishings and wrought iron accents lending weight to the homey charm. A small library, curated with a thoughtful lending selection, sits near the main living room, where soft French music drifts from hidden speakers and mingles with the flickering of the hearth.

GENEROUS LUXURY

What sets Casa Palmero apart isn’t just its privacy or polished setting. It’s what’s included. In an age of line items and fine print, this level of generosity feels subversive. Guests are welcomed with a curated selection of in-room snacks—chocolate-covered almonds, wasabi peas, gummy bears—all replenished daily, along with nonalcoholic beverages. The complimentary offerings continues with evening cocktails in a setting that feels more like a private party than a hotel perk. Whatever you’re in the mood for—Negroni, Chardonnay, a Manhattan—it’s poured with panache and served alongside charcuterie boards laden with artisanal cheese, prosciutto, and sometimes, jumbo shrimp or fresh crab claws. Later, an after-dinner dessert and digestif hour unfolds in the living room. Think Bailey’s and Angel’s Envy served with

bite-sized chocolate lava cakes and biscotti. No check to sign. No interruption to the mood.

Come morning, a white tablecloth continental breakfast appears in your suite, precisely at the time you selected the night before: a tray of fresh coffee, pastries, fruit, yogurt parfaits, and fresh juice arranged with panache.

WELLNESS, PEBBLE BEACH STYLE

Guests of Casa Palmero also enjoy full access to the Spa at Pebble Beach, one of the most celebrated wellness centers in Northern California. Beyond the treatments—though those are excellent—are amenities designed for full-body renewal. Hot and cold plunge pools, eucalyptus steam rooms, an inhalation salt room, and relaxation areas, such as the glorious, glassceilinged conservatory, that brings the outside in. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here, drifting between Casa Palmero’s central swimming pool and the spa’s warmth. And it’s all included with your stay.

GOLF, OF COURSE

Staying at Casa Palmero also comes with access to the Pebble Beach driving range and putting green. No need to bring your own gear—clubs and balls are provided at no charge. Whether you’re fine-tuning your short game before a round or just soaking in the atmosphere of one of golf’s most iconic landscapes, it’s a thoughtful inclusion that captures the spirit of the resort.

Of course, should you wish to book a tee time at Pebble Beach Golf Links or nearby Spanish Bay or Spyglass Hill, the concierge can arrange it. But for many, just standing on the practice green with mist rolling in off the Pacific is enough to feel the magic of this place.

ROAM—OR STAY IN

While Pebble Beach’s celebrated restaurants—including Hay’s Place and The Bench—are just a short stroll or shuttle ride away, many guests choose to dine in. When your suite is this cozy and the service this seamless, venturing out may feel unnecessary.

Room service arrives from the iconic Tap Room. You can enjoy your meal by the fire or alfresco on your private terrace. Either way, the experience feels more like staying in a luxurious villa than a typical hotel stay.

A BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE UNLIKE ANY OTHER

What defines Casa Palmero is not just what it offers, but how. There’s a timeless civility in the way service is delivered here— never overbearing, always intuitive. Every detail is considered. Every amenity feels like it was thought of just for you.

In a region brimming with romantic inns and scenic resorts, Casa Palmero quietly holds its own as the gold standard of boutique hospitality. It’s a place where privacy, generosity, and comfort are offered not as upgrades, but as the default.

And that, in today’s hospitality landscape, may be the rarest luxury of all.

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

Belvedere Waterfront Storybook Residence with Magnificent Views Belvedere, California

Belvedere Waterfront Storybook Residence with Magnificent Views Belvedere, California

Belvedere Waterfront Storybook Residence with Magnificent Views Belvedere, California

3 Beds

±30,000 sq. ft. lot on the San Francisco Bay, located at the prestigious last block of Belvedere Ave, offers magnificent views including the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tam. This iconic residence offers intricate craftsmanship and design including slate roof, incredible brick and stone work, a long winding driveway, wood beam ceilings, arched doorways, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, serene lush gardens and complete privacy. The home is within walking distance to downtown Tiburon’s boutiques, fine restaurants such as Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank Bistro, Luna Blue and Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Corinthian and San Francisco Yacht Clubs, and Ferry Services to San Francisco and Angel Island.

Designed by renowned architect Carr Jones, this unique storybook style 3-bedroom, 3-bath, ±3,919 sq. ft. home on a spacious ±30,000 sq. ft. lot on the San Francisco Bay, located at the prestigious last block of Belvedere Ave, offers magnificent views including the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tam. This iconic residence offers intricate craftsmanship and design including slate roof, incredible brick and stone work, a long winding driveway, wood beam ceilings, arched doorways, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, serene lush gardens and complete privacy. The home is within walking distance to downtown Tiburon’s boutiques, fine restaurants such as Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank Bistro, Luna Blue and Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Corinthian and San Francisco Yacht Clubs, and Ferry Services to San Francisco and Angel Island.

| 3 Baths | ±30,000 sq. ft. Lot | ±3,919 sq. ft. Residence Offered at $7,880,000

Designed by renowned architect Carr Jones, this unique storybook style 3-bedroom, 3-bath, ±3,919 sq. ft. home on a spacious ±30,000 sq. ft. lot on the San Francisco Bay, located at the prestigious last block of Belvedere Ave, offers magnificent views including the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tam. This iconic residence offers intricate craftsmanship and design including slate roof, incredible brick and stone work, a long winding driveway, wood beam ceilings, arched doorways, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, serene lush gardens and complete privacy. The home is within walking distance to downtown Tiburon’s boutiques, fine restaurants such as Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank Bistro, Luna Blue and Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Corinthian and San Francisco Yacht Clubs, and Ferry Services to San Francisco and Angel Island.

Details and photos on BelvedereWaterfront.com

Details and photos on BelvedereWaterfront.com

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com

Details and photos on BelvedereWaterfront.com

The Art of Staying

Hotels That Share Their Collections

BY BECCA HENSLEY

AT SENSEI LĀNA’I, A FOUR SEASONS RESORT, I’M WANDERING through a lush garden, more transfixed by the peerless sculptures by Fernando Botero than the verdant Ko’ele uplands that rise before me. There’s a silence here that feels artsy in itself: maybe it’s the wind crooning a sacred Hawaiian lullaby, but I relax into this outdoor art museum as if it were a cure for everything that ever ailed me. For art lovers seeking a salubrious vacation in a tropical locale, few places satisfy like this innovative wellness mecca delicately wedged among the palms and gloriously enlivened by first-in-class artwork. Robert Indiana’s ever inspiring “Imperial LOVE” gives a burst of joy as I pass and Ju Ming’s “Tai Chi Arch” acts as a portal to the onsen pool area, where I sink my weary travel body into warm, healing water.

Art lovers thrive on art. They understand its power to awaken something inside, recharge our soul, clean our slate. Sometimes art just makes us happy. What’s special for travelers is to align with a hotel where owners have decided consciously to share their own collection. The art is not decoration; it’s more a statement, a gift, a mood. It’s meant to niggle something inside, but only if a guest wants to go there. Art hung and displayed by hotel owners is an invitation as convivial as being offered a pot of tea or a glass of champagne. We’re being asked to be an insider—if just for the duration of our stay.

Read on to discover some other hotels we love for their art collections.

DUBLIN AT THE MERRION

At The Merrion, a work of art itself created from the fusion of four exceptional Georgian townhouses, guests can take a self-guided audio tour through the hotel to interact with the hotel’s trove of museum-class artworks. The private collection of 19th and 20th-century Irish and European masters showcases prominent painters such as Jack B. Yeats and Mary Swanzy. Seal the deal with The Merrion’s Art Tea, which celebrates the collection with cakes inspired by the hotel’s artworks.

LONDON AT ONE ALDWYCH

Located in Covent Garden, one of the world’s most bustling art hubs, One Aldwych draws guests indoors with its own art party. Its premier art collection, composed of some 400 pieces, sets the tone for the hotel’s cool cat identity. Don’t miss pieces such as André Wallace’s The Boatman with Oars, which anchors the Lobby Bar. Brimming with both sculptures like Wallace’s and paintings by the likes of Philip Diggle, One Aldwych also offers art-inspired cocktails and art weekend specials in season.

PRIORAT SPAIN AT MAS D’EN BRUNO

A lesser traveled world of soaring vineyards, charming hilltop villages, and inviting mountains, the Priorat wine region lies southwest of Barcelona. Known for its full-bodied reds, it reigns as a haven for oenophiles in the know. Combine your love for wine with art at Mas d’en Bruno, a hotel amid vines, which displays owner David Stein’s outstanding art collection. Look for works by Chagall, David Hockney, and Christo, among others.

Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg

HOUSTON AT LA COLOMBE D’OR

Created as an homage to the original La Colombe d’ Or in SaintePaul-de-Vence near Nice, where heyday artists such as Picasso paid for meals with their sketches and paintings, Houston’s hotel of the same name lies in the Museum District near The Menil Collection. More than 425 museum-level masterworks fill the hotel’s halls and suites. Swoon over pieces by Man Ray, Gerard Valtier, Guy Van den Bulcke, and Francesco Caraccio. Revel in one of the eye-popping Manson Suites, each named for an eminent artist, such as Degas, Monet or Cezanne.

COLOGNE GERMANY AT ALTHOFF GRANDHOTEL SCHLOSS BENSBERG

Set amid woodlands a short drive from Cologne, this castle was built to please a prince’s wife. Inspired by Versailles, it remains regal with extravagantly tasteful commons areas, suites, gardens, octagonal towers, and nooks for enjoying the Althoff family’s own art collection. Juxtaposing splendid contemporary art with baroque elements, the five-star, family-owned hotel weaves old and new with celebratory finesse. With an active art program, the hotel exhibits pieces by artists such as David Pher, and Dietmar Woelfl.

Whispering Elegance: Embracing Quiet Luxury at San Ysidro Ranch

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

NESTLED IN THE LUSH HILLS OF MONTECITO, CALIFORNIA, San Ysidro Ranch is a sanctuary of romance and tranquility. Having attended UCSB in the ’90s, I knew of “the Ranch,” as locals call it, as something out of a fairy tale, having hosted presidents, kings, queens, and Hollywood’s elite. This time, my journey to this enchanting retreat was not with my husband (who begrudgingly had to travel for work) but with my best friend, Laura Summers. Our shared experience was filled with warmth, laughter, caviar, and unforgettable memories, making it a perfect getaway from our hectic lives.

Upon our arrival, we were greeted with genuine smiles and an immediate sense of belonging. The personalized names at the entrance of our little cottage named Oak was a warm welcome that set the tone for our stay, and the attentive staff made us feel like cherished guests right from the start. The entrance, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea amid a garden of roses, welcomed us into this luxurious hideaway, promising both relaxation and adventure.

San Ysidro Ranch boasts 38 vine-covered cottages, each uniquely decorated and designed for ultimate privacy. Our Oak Cottage, a charming haven with its own secluded garden, spa, and view of the ocean, offered an intimate escape from the outside world. Walking through the private gated entry, we

were greeted by the gentle sounds of nature and the scents of blooming flowers.

Inside, the one-bedroom cottage exuded warmth, comfort, and subtle luxury, lacking for nothing. The oversized soaking spa and indoor/outdoor shower became our little oasis, where we could indulge in relaxation while surrounded by nature and nibbling on champagne and caviar. Nestled in our little home, we cherished the much-needed time spent together as best friends.

Dining at San Ysidro Ranch is an experience in itself, and the award-winning Stonehouse Restaurant did not disappoint. Savoring an array of culinary delights, we discovered that breakfast, lunch, and dinner were all included in our stay, allowing us to indulge in decadent items such as seafood towers, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu, and, of course, caviar. The Stonehouse has proudly held Wine Spectator’s Grand Award since 2014, a testament to its extraordinary commitment to world class dining. Guests can dine beneath twinkling lights and loquat trees or on the outdoor terrace, which offers breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. Each meal was a celebration of fresh herbs and vegetables harvested from the on-site chef’s garden, elevating every bite into a memorable experience, all paired with the sommelier’s recommendations.

One of the highlights of our stay was the extensive wine cellar, where we were fortunate to be introduced to it by David Feinberg, the restaurant’s wine director and knowledgeable sommelier. His passion for wine was contagious as he guided us through the impressive collection of 15,500 bottles, featuring 3,500 individual labels from 70 of the world’s most renowned wine regions, now including Knights Valley’s own Ross Ranch. This meticulously curated selection included one of the most coveted verticals in existence: a complete 120-bottle vertical of Château Pétrus, representing every vintage from 1945 to 2017. As a vintner and wine enthusiast, we were in heaven, savoring the opportunity to taste exquisite selections, all personally curated and provided by Feinberg.

Evenings at San Ysidro Ranch came alive at The Speakeasy, a cozy bar with a 1920s-inspired ambiance. With its sultry atmosphere, we enjoyed expertly crafted cocktails and indulged in delectable bites like seafood towers and caviar. The live music in the background created a relaxing atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for us to continue our catch-up and revel in the magic of our surroundings.

The extensive amenities at San Ysidro Ranch made our stay even more enjoyable. With 17 miles of hiking trails, we set out to explore the breathtaking views overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. We also took time to relax by the pool, soaking in the sun and the serene surroundings. The combination of luxury and nature created a perfect balance, allowing us to recharge and reconnect with ourselves and each other.

To further enhance our stay, we indulged in rejuvenating spa treatments at the world class spa at San Ysidro Ranch. The tranquil environment and expert therapists made each treatment a luxurious escape, allowing us to unwind completely and soak in the serene ambiance. The spa experience was the perfect complement to our stay, making everything that much better.

Our stay at San Ysidro Ranch was more than just a getaway; it was an experience of whispering elegance filled with friendship and a touch of magic. From the warm welcome to the exquisite dining and serene surroundings, every moment was crafted to perfection. San Ysidro Ranch is truly a hidden gem, a place where luxury, privacy, and elegance intertwine, creating a canvas of beautiful experiences that linger long after the journey ends. www.sanysidroranch.com

California Lifestyle Collection

408 GOLDEN GATE AVENUE BELVEDERE

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ±4,890 SQ. FT

$9,500,000

4 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ±4,890 SQ. FT $9,500,000

For rent fully furnished at $28,000/month

For rent fully

at $28,000/month

Spectacular contemporary style home designed by renowned architect Daniel Hunter AIA, built in 2003 and renovated in 2014. This unique home with view of downtown Tiburon, Corinthian Island, two yacht clubs, Belvedere Cove, and Angel Island features lush tropical gardens, a dramatic entry bridge, foyer with living room, an o ce, and staircase with curved glass walls descends to huge open-floor plan dining/family room/kitchen with high ceilings and wall to wall glass doors on both sides. Luxurious primary suite, two en-suite bedrooms, sitting room, and media room with full bathrooms can serve as a bedroom. O pool level, there is a detached guest quarter with a full bathroom, a beautiful pool with a huge lounging terrace for outdoor entertaining, and a level turf athletic green lawn. Amazing turnkey home for Belvedere on the best block at the end of Golden Gate Avenue. Also o ered for fully furnished rental at $28,000 per month.

Spectacular contemporary style home designed by renowned architect Daniel Hunter AIA, built in 2003 and renovated in 2014. This unique home with view of downtown Tiburon, Corinthian Island, two yacht clubs, Belvedere Cove, and Angel Island features lush tropical gardens, a dramatic entry bridge, foyer with living room, an o ce, and staircase with curved glass walls descends to huge open-floor plan dining/family room/kitchen with high ceilings and wall to wall glass doors on both sides. Luxurious primary suite, two en-suite bedrooms, sitting room, and media room with full bathrooms can serve as a bedroom. O pool level, there is a detached guest quarter with a full bathroom, a beautiful pool with a huge lounging terrace for outdoor entertaining, and a level turf athletic green lawn. Amazing turnkey home for Belvedere on the best block at the end of Golden Gate Avenue. Also o ered for fully furnished rental at $28,000 per month.

Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley

A refined retreat in the heart of tech

BY JENNIFER BODEN

SILICON VALLEY EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF INGENUITY, WHERE visionary ideas revolutionize the tech industry. For those seeking accommodations that mirror the region’s excellence, Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley is a premiere choice. Whether you’re here for meetings with tech leaders, academic events at Stanford, or a family adventure exploring the area, you’ll be perfectly positioned to experience everything this iconic technology hub has to offer.

In this exclusive interview, we chat with Adora Manalo, Four Seasons Silicon Valley’s general manager, and Jacques Swart, executive chef, about the beautifully redesigned specialty suites, upcoming fall events, exciting new dinner experiences, and more.

HL: Your specialty suites are stunning. Tell us about your thoughtful redesign.

AM: Our specialty suites reflect what today’s traveler truly needs: space to reset and stay sharp. The new look combines refined minimalism with subtle warmth—an intentional design

choice that allows both clarity and comfort to shine through. Floor-to-ceiling windows draw in natural light, while modern furnishings and curated local artwork evoke the innovative spirit of Silicon Valley. Whether guests are unwinding after a day of meetings or hosting an intimate gathering, these suites are performance-ready environments—engineered as much for calm as they are for creativity.

HL: What new offerings can guests look forward to this fall?

AM: This fall, we’re elevating purposeful moments of pause and connection. Guests can look forward to the return of our Après Village, an open-air seasonal experience that turns our Quattro terrace into a cozy escape with private chalets, firepits, and elevated après-ski fare. We’re also offering morning yoga by the pool, helping guests restore focus while taking in the refreshing breeze of the bay. At Quattro, our recently renovated restaurant, the talented culinary team is unveiling a refreshed fall menu that blends California produce with Italian inspiration—crafted for those who appreciate refined simplicity.

HL: Why is your hotel a top choice for business and pleasure?

AM: Because we understand that peak performance requires both focus and renewal. Our location places guests just minutes from Stanford and major tech campuses, but the experience inside is worlds away from the usual. Bright workspaces, intuitive service, and seamless technology empower business travelers to stay sharp, while our spa, rooftop pool, and vibrant culinary program offer the kind of balance that transforms a work trip into something more meaningful. Whether here for one night or a full week of meetings, guests leave feeling refreshed, recalibrated, and ready for what’s next.

HL: What dinner experiences can guests look forward to this fall?

JS: Be on the lookout for our Thanksgiving offering in Quattro, where we will feature some local favorites, succulent turkey, delectably sweet treats including our popular pumpkin pie, and much more.

Other exciting options will be our afternoon tea in ESC, where our menu is transformed for seasonality and represents the calming colors of fall. We cannot forget to mention the wine dinner in October with Stags Leap Wine Cellars; this will be our last wine dinner for 2025.

HL: Share two of your favorite dishes.

JS: The menu offers a diverse flavor profile showcasing some impactful Italian dishes, but if I must choose just a couple of dishes, I truly enjoy our Ballerina pasta dish. The simplicity of a pomodoro sauce and fried brinjal topped with creamy ricotta cheese: there are so many layers of flavor, but it comes together in a simple way.

Next is our tricolor salad. It’s a staple next to every meal; the crisp greens and truffle dressing complete the bite of every meal.

A Journey of Luxury

Anantara’s Amalfi and Rome

BY CLAUDIA ROSS

ITALY HAS LONG BEEN A DREAM DESTINATION FOR MANY, and my recent trip to two of its most exquisite locales—the Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel and Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome—was nothing short of a fairy tale. Traveling with my family, we embarked on an unforgettable journey that combined the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast with the elegance of Rome, creating a memorable tapestry of experiences that I look forward to reliving in the years to come.

Our adventure began on the stunning Amalfi Coast, where we checked into the Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel. Nestled dramatically on a cliffside and originally built as a Cistercian abbey, this transformed, 13th century gem exudes both charm and luxury. The moment we arrived, took the elevator up the cliff, and stepped onto the terrace, the breathtaking views of the bluest of blue waters and fragrant lemon groves had us ready to relax from the 13-hour journey. Every detail of the hotel had been thoughtfully curated to enhance our experience. Our suite, adorned with soft neutral tones and contemporary furnishings, opened up to a stunning view of the sea. The blend of ancient architecture and modern comfort created the perfect sanctuary to unwind. We spent our days basking by the infinity pool, which seemed to cascade into the ocean below, and indulging in exquisite Italian cuisine at Dei Cappuccini, the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant. Knowing that this

place was home to the Capuchin Monks from the late 1500s until 1826, when it was converted into a hotel. walking through parts of the building, including the church and cloister, still retain their original features from that period. The hotel now offers tours led by “Friar Marcus,” who shares insights into the history of the monastery and the Capuchin order. The 13th-century Capuchin convent, is deeply rooted in its historical significance, guided by Friar Marcus and the philosophy of “Pace & Bene,” which emphasizes peace and goodness. The friar, along with the hotel staff, seeks to embody this spirit, inviting guests to participate in rituals like ringing the Mulattiera Bell and evening reflections that connect them to the convent’s rich heritage. The hotel also collaborates with ACARBIO, a local NGO dedicated to preserving the region’s culture and eco-friendly agricultural traditions. This partnership enriches guest experiences through unique activities, such as exploring ancient Roman irrigation systems and tasting the rare Re Fiascone tomato, thus fostering a deeper connection with both the local community and the convent’s inspiring history.

Anantara Convento di Amalfi offered us a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the region’s rich culture. We participated in a limoncello-making class that delighted our taste buds while also connecting us with local traditions. Culinary lessons with the

talented chefs allowed us to create our own Italian masterpieces, and dining on our creations, accompanied by local wines, forged bonds that will last a lifetime.

The Anantara Spa, set within the monastery’s ancient stone walls, was a true sanctuary. I indulged in a cliffside massage that soothed my senses, while the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks provided a perfect backdrop. Each treatment blended Eastern and Mediterranean rituals, leaving all of us rejuvenated and ready to explore more of the stunning Amalfi Coast.

After a blissful three days in Amalfi, we set off for Rome, where the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel awaited us. Housed in a stunning, 19th century marble palace on Piazza della Repubblica, the hotel is a master class in blending classical grandeur with modern sophistication. As we stepped into the magnificent marble lobby, the grandeur of the neoclassical architecture took our breath away. This hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a landmark that whispers stories of ancient Rome. If you walk downstairs to the first floors, glass floors give you insight into the ancient Roman ruins upon which the palace was originally built.

Our suite, which had the most spectacular views of the Piazza Della Repubblica, was a sanctuary of comfort and elegance, adorned with luxurious furnishings and featuring views of the ancient Baths of Diocletian. The historical significance of the building, with roots dating back to Pope Clement XI, fascinated us. We felt enveloped by the city’s rich history, and the glass floors revealing the preserved mosaics below only heightened our sense of wonder.

Having walked all throughout Rome and visited the new Valentino exhibit near the Spanish Steps and Dolce & Gabana’s Dal Cuore Alle Mani show, we were more than happy to settle back at the hotel and lounge poolside. The infinity pool had a panoramic view of the Eternal City.

Dining at Anantara Palazzo Naiadi was an experience in itself. We indulged in a culinary journey at INEO, the hotel’s signature restaurant, where each dish was a celebration of refined flavors. The highlight was our evening at SEEN by Olivier, perched on the rooftop, where we savored fresh sushi and creative cocktails against a backdrop of sweeping Roman views. The setting sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a magical atmosphere that made our meal even more memorable.

As our trip came to an end, I reflected on the moments that made this journey extraordinary. The blend of family, luxury, and the breathtaking beauty of both properties created memories that we will cherish forever. The luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining experiences, and the rich history surrounding us made our journey not just a vacation but a profound connection to Italy.

In both Amalfi and Rome, the Anantara Hotels provided us with a gateway to experience the essence of Italy: the art, the flavors, the landscapes, and the heartfelt hospitality for which the country is known. As we departed, I felt a sense of gratitude for these moments and a promise to return. Italy, with its enchanting allure, will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I eagerly anticipate the day I can once again bask in the luxury offered by Anantara. www.anantara.com

Palm Trees, Power Lunches, and Pampering : Welcome to Beverly Hills

In Beverly Hills, luxury isn’t loud; it’s lived

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

FEW CITIES COME CLOSE TO MASTERING THE 90201 ’s art of effortless indulgence. Here, a polished world unfolds within a few square miles and a few carefully drawn streets. It’s a compact playground that moves at its own deliberate pace, offering just enough glamour to feel vibrant, but never so much that it feels performative. Visitors may expect an environment where service is intuitive, privacy is respected, and extravagance is a baseline. Historic hotels like the Beverly Wilshire deliver classic opulence with modern precision. Fine dining institutions such as Spago and the Polo Lounge serve not just cuisine, but cultural moments where old and new Hollywood intersect. Shopping is a tailored experience, where a simple stroll can turn into a private showing. Even the public spaces, like the Beverly Gardens Park and its Rose Garden, are carefully manicured extensions of the city’s larger promise of lived-in luxury. A visit to Beverly Hills isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about inhabiting a lifestyle defined by ease, access, and refinement.

STAY

Famously featured in the film Pretty Woman, the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, is as much a cultural landmark as it is a hotel. This isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a piece of Beverly Hills history. Opened in 1928 at the foot of Rodeo Drive, the grand hotel has

long been a magnet for royalty, Hollywood legends, and heads of state. Its prime location puts guests within walking distance to that for which the region is most well-known, yet inside it is a private, polished world unto itself—complete with a Mediterranean-style pool, an award-winning spa, and CUT by Wolfgang Puck, one of the city’s top steakhouses. Blending Old World glamour with modern Four Seasons service, the hotel is home base for the best of Beverly Hills. And the al fresco terrace of the hotel’s THE Blvd Restaurant & Lounge provides a front row seat with tables set underneath the iconic purple and white striped canopies lining Wilshire Boulevard.

DINE

There are restaurants that serve food and others that serve legend. Spago Beverly Hills, the crown jewel of Puck’s culinary empire, is unquestionably the latter. For more than four decades, Spago has defined the gold standard of California’s fine dining. The space strikes a balance between timeless elegance and laid-back Los Angeles cool. Statement lighting accents warm woods, glass, and white walls filled with celebrity photos. The seasonally changing menu is as much a love letter to California as it is a display of global sophistication, woven with Japanese, French, and Italian influences. Don’t miss Puck’s off-menu legacy dish: smoked

salmon pizza topped with caviar. It arrives crisp and golden, with a delicate layer of crème fraîche beneath folds of house-smoked salmon and a flourish of black caviar. It’s playful, decadent, and impossibly delicious.

Inside the iconic and forever stylish Beverly Hills Hotel, The Polo Lounge has long been the backdrop for Hollywood dealmaking, star-studded brunches, and discreet rendezvous. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s where Hollywood has come to see and be unseen for nearly a century. Wrapped in pink stucco, palm fronds, and an air of exclusivity, the Polo Lounge is simply legendary. The menu here remains timeless. Enjoy classics like the Dover sole meunière and the signature McCarthy salad (a take on the traditional Cobb). The “Polo” branded American wagyu burger makes for a great photo op, as does the old fashioned chocolate cake, but click discreetly. Photography is frowned upon; phones stay mostly tucked away—one reason celebs love the place.

SHOP

In Beverly Hills, even browsing feels elevated. Here, shopping is less about necessity and more about theater, and Rodeo Drive is the main stage. Along its three refined blocks, lined with hanging floral baskets, flagship boutiques from Chanel, Dior, Gucci®, and Harry Winston lure shoppers with impeccably curated storefronts. This is a place where personal shoppers know their clients by name and exclusive pieces are often offered before they ever hit the sales floor. But some of the best finds happen just off Rodeo on quieter

streets, such as Brighton Way and Dayton Way, where independent jewelers, art galleries, and designer concept stores offer a less scripted experience. For true connoisseurs, House of Bijan—a byappointment-only boutique on Rodeo Drive—is still the ultimate statement, known for ultra-luxury menswear and a client list that includes heads of state and Hollywood royalty. You’ll recognize the store by the distinctive “Bijan yellow” car parked right outside and the crowd gathered around. Owner Bijan Pakzad owned a fleet of high performance automobiles, and the store cycles them on display. Sports fans might want to check out Jason of Beverly Hills in the Beverly Wilshire lobby. This jeweler crafts championship rings for teams across all four major North American professional sports leagues and several examples are on display. Each ring is meticulously designed to encapsulate the team’s unique journey and achievements, often featuring intricate details like hidden compartments and symbolic gemstones.

INDULGE

A refined sanctuary of relaxation, The Spa at Beverly Wilshire offers an indulgent menu, including a treatment that doesn’t just pamper; it tells a story. The Beverly Hills Journey is a sensorial, 90-minute escape designed to mirror the elegance and rhythm of a perfect day in the 90210. A repairing body oil mimics the glow of the California sun. Exfoliants are symbolic of Beverly Hills moments: a coffee scrub evokes the rich aroma of morning espresso enjoyed at the hotel’s THE Blvd terrace; a rose clay scrub channels a sun-drenched

stroll past the famed Beverly Hills Garden Park and its bounty of roses; a detox body scrub recalls perhaps a poolside detox green juice. Whipped shea body butter infused with organic sweet orange oil is an ode to the hotel’s Mediterranean-style pool terrace and its sense of carefree luxury. The treatment is both whimsical and powerful, and a finely curated escape.

EXPLORE

Stretching along Santa Monica Boulevard is Beverly Gardens Park, where you’ll find the famous Beverly Hills sign framed by lily ponds and palm trees. A stroll here is pleasant and peaceful. Take a drive through neighborhoods like Trousdale Estates or Holmby Hills for a glimpse at some of the most spectacular (and heavily gated) real estate in the world. Visit Greystone Mansion & Gardens, a historic estate tucked in the hills just above Sunset Boulevard. It’s free and open to the public most days, and it feels like stepping onto a movie set—because it is. Dozens of films (The Big Lebowski, There Will Be Blood, Spider-Man) have been shot here. Walk the manicured gardens, explore the terraces overlooking the city, and feel like you’ve stumbled into a secret corner of old Beverly Hills glamour. It’s one of the city’s most beautiful—and surprisingly tranquil—experiences.

In Beverly Hills, expect the past and present to swirl together like a perfect martini—timeless, indulgent, and impossible to resist. From sun-drenched streets to iconic landmarks, this legendary city never fails to captivate with its enduring allure.

Your Entertainment Map to 24 Hours in West Hollywood

From sunrise lattes to midnight encores, the city’s entertainment pulse never skips a beat.

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

IN MOST CITIES, ENTERTAINMENT IS A DIVERSION. IN WEST Hollywood (or WeHo), it’s the ecosystem. These two compact square miles, wedged between Beverly Hills and Hollywood proper, manage to contain more star power, creative energy, and cultural cachet than entire ZIP Codes™ elsewhere. It’s not just where entertainment is consumed. It’s where it’s cast, styled, pitched, posted, and occasionally reborn.

With nearly 20 hotels (most in the luxury category), WeHo is also unusually equipped to host this nonstop production. Actors, designers, publicists, musicians, stylists, and executives move in and out of lobbies like rotating cast members. But for visitors, it offers a chance to see and participate in the daily choreography of a city built on story.

Here’s how to do West Hollywood in 24 hours—entertainment industry edition.

9:00 AM – Scene Study Over Coffee

Start with caffeine or matcha at Dialog Café or Verve on Melrose Ave. These are the kinds of spots where laptop meetings dissolve into impromptu pitch sessions and where a casual coffee run might cross paths with a red carpet regular dressed down in sweats and

sunglasses. The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker is a stylish café and brunch spot celebrated for its vibrant “colorburst” lattes and artfully plated comfort dishes. With a chic patio and a menu that mixes indulgence with Instagram-worthy flair, it turns a casual coffee run into a mini event.

11:00 AM – Daylight Glamour

By mid-morning, the machine is in motion. West Hollywood’s Design District hums with stylists and shoppers pulling looks for a shoot, a fitting, or an awards show. This is where you’ll find many LA flagships, such as Staud, Jacquemus, and Ulla Johnson. In-the-know stylists head straight to iconic Jay Wolf for highly curated fashions. Pop into Gen Z fave MadHappy for both streetwear and a cup of joe; its in-store coffee counter draws locals and creatives who treat the atrium space like an unofficial headquarters. Visit one of the sleek furniture showrooms for a glimpse of how West Hollywood lives at home: comfortable, polished, and camera-ready. The district’s walkability is part of the charm. Never mind the “nobody walks in LA” trope; this neighborhood invites you to slow down, explore, and peoplewatch. Every block is layered with personality.

1:00 PM – Power Lunch, WeHo Style

In this town, lunch is rarely just lunch. At Merois, atop The Sun Rose Hotel West Hollywood, the Los Angles skyline competes with Wolfgang Puck’s artfully modern menu and a crowd that looks like it stepped off a shoot. Here, high-stakes meetings happen under the guise of a casual catch-up, and you may find yourself seated near a chart-topping artist or a Netflix star.

A few blocks north, the Terrace at Sunset Tower provides a different kind of lunchtime intimacy, one that’s quiet, shaded, and full of unspoken context. Although the art deco landmark’s understated facade belies its long history of Hollywood intrigue, it remains a favorite for dealmakers and actors trying not to be seen, while the hotel’s hallways double as a visual archive lined with black-and-white portraits of stars who helped build the myth of LA.

For a more boisterous kind of energy, head to Barney’s Beanery on Santa Monica Blvd. This decades-old diner is where Morrison drank, Tarantino wrote, and where everyone is still welcome.

3:00 PM – Spa Break or Scout Location

Afternoons in West Hollywood offer two paths: retreat or recalibrate.

At The West Hollywood EDITION Spa, entertainment insiders prep for premieres or press with the GLOW Jet Peel facial—a nodowntime fix that leaves skin looking subtly lit from within. At Remedy Place, known for its sleek, minimalist design and “reverse nightlife” concept, luxury hospitality blends with cutting-edge health treatments like infrared saunas, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and guided breathwork.

But if wellness isn’t the priority, there’s always location scouting, at least unofficially. Lounge at Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotels, and you’ll see why so many productions choose West Hollywood as their backdrop. The skyline stretches from the Hollywood sign to downtown LA, framed by palms, glass, and a golden haze.

6:00 PM – Costume Change & Golden Hour

Back at your hotel, be it The Sun Rose Hotel West

Hollywood, Andaz, or the Chamberlain, the evening transformation begins. Few cities have a hotel-to-resident ratio like West Hollywood, and even fewer can match its style. The 20-plus properties here range from historic glamour (Sunset Tower) to ecoluxury (1 Hotels) to boutique bohemia such as at Petit Ermitage, where every suite is unique. With its art-filled hallways, velvet settees, and dreamscape rooftop, this members-only club allows its hotel guests to move seamlessly through bohemian-glam spaces designed for the city’s creative inner circle.

It’s worth noting that everyone feels welcome in WeHo. The city’s spirit is proudly inclusive—not in name only, but also in energy. Whether you’re in black tie, platform boots, or something in between, you’ll blend right in.

8:00 PM – Dinner with a View (or a Deal)

West Hollywood dining is rarely accidental. Ladyhawk is one of the newest hotspots to watch, and the evening crowd often includes executives, actors, and producers making soft deals over shared mezze. Helmed by Top Chef Middle East & North Africa winner Charbel Hayek, the Levantine flavors are bright, bold, and perfectly plated for both Instagram and industry chatter.

Formosa Café is a cinematic time capsule where black-and-white headshots of Hollywood legends set the stage for strong cocktails and revamped Chinese American classics. It’s the kind of place where old studio gossip still hangs in the air. At WeHo staple Dan Tana’s, squeeze into an iconic red leather booth for their famous chicken parmesan and the must-try New York cheesecake. And Craig’s remains the standby for comfort food and star sightings.

10:00 PM – Curtain Up

This is when West Hollywood starts to shimmer.

Live at The Sun Rose offers an elegant twist on the live music scene. Part supper club, part recording session, this refined venue at The Sun Rose Hotel West Hollywood is intimate and features a lineup that leans toward soulful and genre-blurring jazz, indie, R&B, and the occasional surprise set by a Grammy winner dropping in under the radar.

Over at The Comedy Store, the ghosts of stand-up legends still linger, but the laughs are fresh, raw, and often delivered by household names who “just dropped by.”

Need a nightcap? The Roof at The EDITION turns into a low-simmer party as the city lights come into focus. The crowd turns fashion-forward and international after hours, especially on weekends. Dress accordingly.

West Hollywood rarely insists you call it a night. The music might slow, the lighting might soften, but the conversation continues in a private suite, in a quiet corner at Employees Only, or at a firepit on someone’s terrace high above Sunset with a view of the stars (the celestial kind) and twinkling city lights.

What makes West Hollywood entertainment unique isn’t just who performs here. It’s who lives here, works here, wanders through on their way to something else. It’s the feeling that you’re part of a living, breathing production, one with no clear beginning, no definitive end, and no closing credits. Just a city that always finds its spotlight.

Tee Time Travels: Luxe Golf Resorts to Swing Into This FALL

BY BECCA HENSLEY

FOR “GOLFOPHILES,” IT ISN’T A VACATION IF THEY AREN’T toting their Calloway or Titleist clubs to a far-flung, world class golf course—ideally set within a five-star resort. Known to be good for the game, playing a new course boosts focus and dissipates boredom. Doing it with friends or family at a swanky retreat deepens camaraderie, connects travelers with their environs, and provides for plenty of off-the-green action and relaxation, whether at the spa, pool, or on-site restaurants. Feeling the need to tee off? We’ve rounded up some tee-rific golfing destinations for this summer.

BOULDERS RESORT & SPA, SCOTTSDALE ARIZONA

Some people golf to make par, others swing for the setting. Golfers won’t want to miss the opportunity to play amid enormous ancient boulders, some that seem to levitate, barely touching the earth. Punctuated by saguaro cacti and occupied by roadrunners, the resort’s two challenging 18-hole championship courses sport spectacular mountain views and sunsets so breathtaking they’ll

make you weak in the knees. Execute that hole-in-one on the Jay Moorish-designed Boulders North and Boulders South or practice for it at Boulders Golf Academy, a resource for private lessons with talented PGA instructors. When not wielding clubs, dine in any of five restaurants or recharge in the world class spa, where customized golfer massages have been designed to help with your golf swing and improve your game.

SEA ISLAND, GEORGIA

With five miles of private beach, a beach club, tennis center, shooting school, yacht club, and scores of children’s programs, Sea Island, on Georgia’s southeastern coast, has been a peerless summer retreat for generations of families. Golfers return for its three championship golf courses, which include Seaside and Plantation, home of the PGA Tour’s RSM Classic. Up your game, whether novice or expert, at the resort’s Golf Performance Center, which teaches a unique, multidisciplinary approach to golf.

GLEANEAGLES, SCOTLAND

Since 1924, palatial Gleneagles, nicknamed the “glorious playground,” has epitomized Scotland’s storied golf culture. In the Highlands amid verdant hills and glens, the stunning retreat brandishes three world class championship courses. Between falconry, fishing, or clay pigeon shooting, putt and chip on The King’s (the No.1 inland course in Scotland), The Queen’s (one of the finest par-68 golf courses in the U.K.), and/or The PGA Centenary Course—host venue of the 2014 Ryder Cup and 2019 Solheim Cup. That’s a total of 54 holes of championship golf, not to mention a nine-hole, par 3 PGA National Academy course. Between rounds, world class gastronomy awaits, as well as sumptuous suites worthy of its timeless country estate élan.

RANCHO VALENCIA RESORT & SPA, SAN DIEGO, CA

Hidden amid olive groves and orange trees, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa summons thoughts of sunny southern Spain. Luckily, the much-loved resort lies much closer to home: just 25 minutes north of San Diego. On 45 acres peppered with stucco buildings capped with tile roofs, it’s lauded for its immense wellness facility, rife with fitness and spa offerings. A member of Relais & Châteaux, Rancho Valencia is also known for its gastronomy. Do it all with the Golfer’s Paradise Package, which invites guests to experience local links during a three-night stay in an elegant casita. Included amenities such as a “Tacos and Tequila” spread, complimentary Callaway golf clubs, and more seal the deal.

SHEEN FALLS LODGE, IRELAND

At County Kerry’s most evocative, 300-acre, five-star country house hotel, you’ll do a jig or two—not to mention ride horses, try your hand at archery, sit with a genealogist to unlock your family’s heritage, and explore the idyllic town of Kenmare. But, you’ve come for the golf, so play a round at Ring of Kerry Golf Club, a demanding course hailed for its views and stunning terrain. Book the Sheen Falls Lodge’s Tee Time Package, which offers a two-night stay, a round of golf, transfers to and from the golf course, and full Irish breakfast and dinner in the inimitable Stables Brasserie.

THE SAGAMORE RESORT, NEW YORK

Golfers with a penchant for historic properties need look no further than The Sagamore, which lords over Lake George in New York’s Adirondacks. Dating back to 1883, the scenic retreat has a clubby, nostalgic aura. Teeming with activity options for those not golfing, the Sagamore draws golfers for its narrow fairways lined with hardwoods and deep bunkers surrounded by woodland. Swoon over the iconic par 70 championship course designed under Donald Ross’ personal supervision in 1928 .

LONDON CALLING

THE HAUTEST LUXURY HOTELS IN THE BIG SMOKE.

BY LAURA SCHREFFLER

THE DORCHESTER

The Dorchester isn’t just a hotel — it’s a London legend, reborn. Since 1931, this Park Lane icon has defined British luxury, and its recent refresh only elevates the magic. Designer Pierre-Yves Rochon brings gardeninspired hues, hand-painted de Gournay headboards, and bespoke floral details to light-filled rooms and suites, while even the corridors get a glow-up with custom carpets. The Vesper Bar oozes Bond-era glamour, and the Artists’ Bar dazzles with mirrored pianos and cocktails inspired by original artworks. Dining impresses at every turn — from Alain Ducasse’s three-Michelin-starred French fine dining to China Tang’s decadent dim sum and modern British plates at The Grill by Tom Booton. With a world-class spa and the chic new boutique Cake & Flowers, The Dorchester feels as timeless as ever — but completely of-the-moment. 53 Park Ln, W1K 1QA

THE PENINSULA LONDON

The Peninsula London, located in elegant Belgravia, is where British sophistication meets the warmth of Asian hospitality. Designed by Peter Marino, its 190 serene rooms and suites feel like private sanctuaries. Think: floor-to-ceiling windows, bespoke British details, and marble bathrooms stocked with locally inspired Scents of the City. Service is next-level, with a signature jade-green fleet (including an electrified vintage Austin taxi) offering stylish rides around central London. Wellness is front and center, thanks to a tranquil spa with Thai-inspired treatments and an ozone-filtered indoor pool lined with plush loungers. Dining is an experience in itself — especially at Canton Blue, where the design evokes a 19th-century Chinese junk in the most cinematic, transportive way. Every inch of this hotel is a love letter to detail, culture, and calm. The Peninsula may be a newcomer to London’s luxury scene, but it arrives with the quiet confidence of an instant icon. 1 Grosvenor Pl, SW1X 7HJ

THE CONNAUGHT

The Connaught is the definition of quiet glamour — understated, elegant, and effortlessly iconic. The new Suite Collection at this Mayfair mainstay is a study in thoughtful luxury: expect cocktails mixed tableside by the World’s 50 Best award-winning The Connaught Bar team, pastries by Nicolas Rouzaud, and even shoeshines courtesy of John Lobb. But it’s the atmosphere that truly sets it apart. Every detail, from the Guy Oliver and David Collins Studio-designed suites to the handcrafted touches by Turquoise Mountain Foundation artisans, is intentionally refined and deeply British. Dining is just as elevated, with three-Michelin-starred Hélène Darroze leading the charge while Haute Living ambassador Jean-Georges Vongerichten brings a modern twist with his eponymous Jean-Georges at The Connaught. Whether you’re savoring a martini at the world-famous Connaught Bar, slipping into serenity at the Aman Spa, or indulging in wood-fired excellence at the Connaught Grill, it all feels quietly cinematic. Carlos Pl, W1K 2AL

BVLGARI

HOTEL LONDON

When you want your London stay to feel cinematic, seductive, and quietly extravagant, Bvlgari Hotel London delivers. Set in sleek Knightsbridge, just steps from Harrods and Hyde Park, it’s a masterclass in Italian glamour with a British edge. The rooms and suites — some of the city’s largest — are all glossy marble, rich silks, and sculptural design. The crown jewel? The 4,300-square-foot Bvlgari Suite with wraparound terraces and next-level privacy. Below ground, the 25,000-square-foot spa is a sanctuary of stillness, complete with a 82-foot pool, 111Skin and Swiss Perfection facials, and private vitality suites. Add in a private cinema, curated cigar lounge, and Sette by NYC’s Scarpetta team, and you’ve got modern luxury done right. 171 Knightsbridge, SW7 1DW

ROSEWOOD LONDON

Hidden behind a grand carriageway near Covent Garden, Rosewood London feels more like a private manor than a hotel. Housed in a restored Belle Époque building, it makes a dramatic first impression with its marble staircase and soaring dome. The rooms and suites — especially the Grand Manor House Wing, complete with its own postcode — exude the polish of a chic London residence, blending elevated finishes with quiet glamour. But there’s more. Scarfes Bar is a World’s 50 Best libation destination, known for live jazz, witty cocktails, and walls lined with hand-drawn caricatures. Holborn Dining Room serves up British brasserie classics, while The Pie Room is heaven for pastry lovers. Afternoon tea in the Mirror Room turns desserts into edible art, with rotating teas inspired by specific artists, and the bamboo-lined Sense Spa offers a calming urban escape. 252 High Holborn, WC1V 7EN

THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL LONDON AT TOWER BRIDGE

Tucked inside a grand 1920s Beaux-Arts landmark just steps from the Tower of London, the Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge is the kind of place that makes you whisper ‘wow.’ The vibe? Historic British power meets modern luxury, all under a soaring rotunda that once belonged to the Port of London Authority. Rooms and suites feel quietly opulent, with just the right amount of drama — and if you’re lucky enough to land one of the private residences or the 9,000-square-foot Skyline Penthouse, prepare for next-level indulgence (private cinema, gym, skyline views). The Roman-inspired spa is a destination in itself, complete with a hammam, vitality pool, and world-class facials. And the dining? From the Michelin-starred La Dame de Pic to dim sum at Mei Ume, it’s all top-tier. 10 Trinity Square, EC3N 4AJ

THE BEAUMONT MAYFAIR

The Beaumont feels less like a hotel and more like a well-kept secret. Tucked into a quiet Mayfair garden square, it’s all old-world charm and Art Deco elegance — lacquered wood, leather banquettes, brass details — executed with effortless style. There’s nothing flashy here, just timeless design and soul in every corner. The standout? The Antony Gormley ROOM, a suite that doubles as a sculpture and an experience. Service is warm and intuitive, the kind that makes you feel like a regular on your first visit. Magritte Bar is pure late-night magic — negronis, jazz, and just the right amount of mischief, while the hotel’s newest concept, Rosi, will offer a spirited interpretation of Modern British dining come September. The Beaumont doesn’t clamor for attention. It doesn’t need to. It simply gets everything right, quietly and confidently. The result? A hotel you return to — not just because it’s beautiful, but because it feels like yours. 8 Balderton St, Brown Hart Gardens, W1K 6TF

BROADWICK SOHO

Broadwick Soho is as bold, bohemian, and unapologetic as the neighborhood it celebrates. Tucked in the heart of London’s West End, this 57-room hideaway channels Soho’s raw energy and creative spirit into a wildly stylish escape. Dreamed up by a group of friends with deep local ties, it’s a love letter to the area’s eccentric past and electric now. Designed by Martin Brudnizki, the interiors are pure fantasy — Jazz Age glamour meets Italian romance, English cheek, and a touch of disco sparkle. It’s less hotel, more seductive townhouse, where every corner surprises with texture, color, and personality. It is equal parts luxury and mischief — a winning combination. 20 Broadwick St, W1F 8HT

NOMAD LONDON

Set inside Covent Garden’s historic Bow Street Magistrates’ Court, NoMad London feels more like a decadent New Yorker’s townhouse than a traditional hotel. It’s moody, magnetic, and packed with surprises — from the soaring glass atrium at Twenty8, where foie gras-stuffed chicken and Galician steak take center stage, to a cheeky martini menu that reimagines NYC cocktail culture. Martin Brudnizki’s design is pure maximalist fantasy: think vintage palm court, dramatic hearth, and rattan-glam accents alongside portraits of Oscar Wilde. Upstairs, the World’s 50 Best award-winning bar, Side Hustle, serves up Latin American flavors in a sultry, candlelit space, while The Library is a velvet-draped haven of art books and quiet luxury. It’s all layered, indulgent, and effortlessly cool — a love letter to London, New York, and the spaces in between. 28 Bow St, WC2E 7AW

CORINTHIA LONDON

Corinthia London is the kind of hotel where heritage meets modernity and world-class wellness. Set between the Thames and Trafalgar Square, this grande dame exudes quiet luxury, drawing creatives, jet-setters, and insiders alike. Its 279 rooms and suites — including seven penthouses — combine classic elegance with a fresh, residential feel: soft silks, botanical tones, and bespoke British touches. Dining is top-tier, from the lively Kerridge’s Bar & Grill to the sultry Velvet by Salvatore Calabrese, plus afternoon tea beneath a dazzling Baccarat chandelier in the Crystal Moon Lounge. But the real standout is ESPA Life at Corinthia — a four-floor sanctuary with a dramatic pool, thermal areas, and next-level, results-driven treatments. Service is warm and seamless, the vibe refined yet relaxed. Whitehall Pl, SW1A 2BD

THE LANESBOROUGH

If you’re after London luxury with real character, The Lanesborough has it in spades. Overlooking Hyde Park Corner, this grand Regency mansion blends timeless British elegance with modern ease — antique art, 24-hour butler service, and interiors by design icon Alberto Pinto. Its 93 rooms and suites strike the perfect balance between classic charm and cutting-edge tech (even pets are pampered). But it’s not just about where you sleep. The Library Bar is a glamorous, cozy escape, while the Garden Room cigar terrace comes alive at dusk. At The Lanesborough Grill, chef Shay Cooper delivers modern British cuisine with flair. And for those craving wellness, the Club & Spa is a destination in itself — offering personalized programs in one of London’s most exclusive fitness and wellbeing spaces. Hyde Park Corner, SW1X 7TA

MANDARIN ORIENTAL LONDON, MAYFAIR

Mandarin Oriental Mayfair brings refined luxury and quiet elegance to Hanover Square, right in the heart of London. With just 50 rooms and suites, the vibe is intimate and polished — think hand-painted de Gournay wallpaper, marble bathrooms, and a sense of calm sophistication. Michelinstarred chef Akira Back’s first UK restaurant headlines the culinary offering, blending Japanese and Korean flavors in a sleek, light-filled space. Upstairs, the ABar Lounge serves inventive cocktails in a setting that’s effortlessly chic. Wellness is a highlight too, with a tranquil spa featuring a 25-meter pool, vitality pools, and treatments that fuse tradition with innovation. Just steps from Bond Street and the Royal Academy of Arts, this is a true city sanctuary — exclusive, stylish, and quietly spectacular. 22 Hanover Square, W1S 1JP

PARK HYATT LONDON RIVER THAMES

Park Hyatt London River Thames is the city’s newest quiet powerhouse — elegant, design-led, and perfectly positioned along the river with views of Westminster and Battersea Power Station. As the first Park Hyatt in the U.K., it delivers the brand’s signature understated luxury: impeccable service, serene interiors, and thoughtful British design touches like William Morris patterns, marble finishes, and curated contemporary art. Rooms are spacious, light-filled, and many offer sweeping river views. Dining shines at Yú Gé, a refined Cantonese restaurant blending tradition with modern flair. The spa is a destination in itself, featuring an infinity pool, six treatment rooms, two saunas, and a relaxation lounge featuring two Somadome Pods. Located in up-and-coming Nine Elms — across the bridge from Chelsea — the hotel is ideal for travelers who appreciate calm over flash. 7 Nine Elms Ln, Nine Elms, SW8 5PH

THE GORING HOTEL

If you know, you know — and if you don’t, meet The Goring: London’s most charmingly English five-star hotel. Family-owned since 1910 and the only hotel ever granted a Royal Warrant by Her Majesty The Queen (appropriate, given that it’s located in Belgravia near Buckingham Palace), it’s long been the go-to for royals, dignitaries, and lovers of tradition done right. With just 69 rooms and suites (including the regal Royal Suite), it blends grandeur and intimacy with ease. Expect footmen in scarlet coats, Michelin-starred dining by Russell Sage, and rooms wrapped in Gainsborough silks. The private garden — London’s largest for a luxury hotel — is a dreamy spot for afternoon tea or a sun-soaked G&T. Add in theatrical tableside service and cocktails crafted with herbs grown on-site, and you’ve got a stay that feels both timeless and personal 15 Beeston Pl SW1W 0JW

THE SAVOY

The Savoy has always defined London glamour, and its 2025 redesign marks a bold new chapter. Partnering with the acclaimed G.A Group, the hotel has reimagined its Edwardian and Art Deco rooms with rich textures, modern elegance, and a deep respect for its storied past. Edwardian rooms feel luminous and romantic — ivory silks, marble, and Savoy Theatre-inspired art — while Art Deco spaces go bold with geometric lines, high-gloss finishes, and signature green tones. Many suites offer sweeping Thames views, framed by custom window seats perfect for lingering, just as Monet once did. Even the amenities are upgraded: yoga mats in every room, Dyson hairdryers in suites, intuitive controls, and color-shifting vanity mirrors. The chic new all-day restaurant, Gallery, adds to the refresh. With this glow-up, The Savoy remains as iconic as ever — steeped in history, yet perfectly poised for the now. Strand, WC2R 0EZ

45 PARK LANE

The Dorchester Collection’s 45 Park Lane is The Dorchester’s art-savvy, steak-loving younger sister — sleek, seductive, and unapologetically modern. With just 45 Art Deco-inspired rooms and suites, it feels like a private Mayfair residence (with Hyde Park views and a Wolfgang Puck restaurant downstairs). Interiors by Thierry Despont channel moody glamour — all sculptural lines, rich textures, and mirrored details — while a rotating collection of contemporary British art (yes, that’s a Damien Hirst in the dining room) makes the hotel feel more like a gallery than a lobby. CUT at 45 Park Lane is a destination in its own right — Puck’s first European restaurant — and upstairs, BAR 45 is where Londoners in the know come for vintage Negronis and a few “Rough CUTs” (steak sliders, wagyu skewers) with their martinis. Down a hidden hallway, Sushi Kanesaka offers a Michelin-starred omakase that’s pure theatre. Add in personal hosts for every room, a stunning spa and pool, and you’ve got a hotel that nails high-touch service with downtown cool. 45 Park Ln, W1K 1PN

RAFFLES LONDON AT THE OWO

Raffles London at The OWO is pure James Bond fantasy, and rightly so. Set in the former Old War Office — where Winston Churchill strategized and spies once roamed — this storied building has been transformed into one of London’s most opulent new hotels. Think sweeping staircases, showstopping interiors by Thierry Despont, and suites inspired by wartime legends (some with gold bathtubs and dedicated footmen). Mauro Colagreco’s Michelin-starred restaurant leads the dining lineup, alongside the hush of the Drawing Room and the underground intrigue of Spy Bar — a covert speakeasy tucked inside a former interrogation room, complete with secret passages and a vintage Bond car. There’s also a Guerlain spa and a sense throughout that history isn’t just preserved — it’s elevated. Raffles’ first UK property pulls no punches: dramatic, dazzling, and built for legends. 57 Whitehall, SW1A 2BX

SCOTTISH STYLE

TRADE YOUR TEA FOR A DRAM AND GET READY TO EXPLORE MORE OF THE U.K.

SOUTH WEST SCOTLAND: GLENAPP CASTLE HOTEL

Glenapp Castle Hotel is a storybook escape on Scotland’s breathtaking Ayrshire coast — a 21-bedroom Relais & Châteaux hideaway that’s home to Scotland’s largest suite, the Castle Penthouse. It’s the kind of place where a couple of nights can restore your soul. Wander through 110 acres of manicured gardens, private woodland, and sweeping coastal views stretching to Ailsa Craig and even Northern Ireland. Adventure calls with more than 70 activities — falconry, curling, stargazing, and the unforgettable Hebridean Sea Safari — while history whispers through its halls. Designed in 1870 by David Brice and painstakingly restored by the McMillan family over six years, the castle has welcomed everyone from romantic dreamers to world leaders (including Winston Churchill in 1944). Today, Glenapp is celebrated as one of the UK’s finest luxury castle hotels — an enchanting blend of heritage, seclusion, and indulgence. Glenapp Castle Hotel, Ballantrae, Ayrshire KA26 0NZ, Scotland

EDINBURGH:

PRESTONFIELD HOUSE

Opulence, theater, and indulgence meet at Prestonfield House, Edinburgh’s most exclusive five-star retreat. Just five minutes from the city center yet set within 20 acres of lush gardens beneath the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, this 17th-century gem offers the seclusion of a country estate with the convenience of the capital. Since the 1950s, Prestonfield has been a discreet playground for Scotland’s social, political, artistic, and business elite — a tradition that continues today. Each of the 18 bedrooms and five suites is a masterpiece in its own right, adorned with antique furnishings, statement beds, and decadent details. At its heart is Rhubarb, its destination restaurant, alongside opulent salons, historic private dining rooms, and the show-stopping Circular Stables — perfect for celebrations of every scale. Priestfield Rd, Edinburgh, EH16 5UT, Scotland

EDINBURGH: THE WITCHERY

If you’re craving full-blown gothic romance, The Witchery in Edinburgh is your fairytale fantasy brought to life. Perched on the Royal Mile, this seductive hideaway is all velvet, candlelight, and dramatic flair. With only nine opulent suites, it feels like a decadent secret. Expect four-poster beds, hand-painted ceilings, antique-filled rooms, and sultry bathrooms made for two (the Turret Suite features a silver bateau tub and red-glass mosaic shower). The mood continues downstairs, where you can dine by candlelight in the baroque oak-paneled restaurant or beneath the stars in a secret garden courtyard. Every detail is lush, theatrical, and transportive — like stepping into a Scottish fairytale with a seductive twist. 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF, Scotland

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS: GLENEAGLES

There’s nowhere quite like Gleneagles. This century-old Scottish Highlands icon blends historic charm with modern indulgence across 850 acres of Perthshire countryside. Originally dubbed “the eighth wonder of the world,” it’s now a fivestar playground for families, food lovers, and adventure seekers alike. With over 50 country pursuits — hawk walks, horseback rides, championship golf, even bug hunts and gundog handling — days are anything but ordinary. Inside, 233 stylish rooms and suites pair classic elegance with comfort, while the spa offers top-tier treatments from Dr. Barbara Sturm and Tata Harper. Dining is equally exceptional, from the two-Michelin-star Andrew Fairlie to vintage cocktails at The American Bar. Whether you’re sipping by a fire pit, clay shooting in the hills, or soaking in a tub with Highland views, Gleneagles is a luxe escape that’s both nostalgic and wildly fun. Auchterarder, Perthshire PH3 1NF, Scotland

Experience Luxury and Innovation at W Scottsdale

The Debut of Aescape

BY CLAUDIA ROSS

IN THE HEART OF SCOTTSDALE’S VIBRANT ENTERTAINMENT

District, W Scottsdale stands as a beacon of modern luxury and sophistication. This stunning hotel, which marks the debut of W Hotels in Arizona, offers an immersive experience that appeals to the discerning traveler seeking both relaxation and excitement. As an editor for Haute Living Magazine, I recently had the pleasure of exploring the remarkable offerings of W Scottsdale, including a groundbreaking partnership with Aescape, the lifestyle robotics company revolutionizing the massage experience through innovative AI technology.

The AWAY Spa at W Scottsdale has now become the first destination in Arizona to feature Aescape’s remarkable robotic massage technology. This state-of-the-art treatment is designed to provide personalized recovery, making it an ideal choice for guests after an energetic day on the golf course or exploring the city’s vibrant attractions. The Aescape experience is a gamechanger, offering on-demand, fully customizable massages that redefine the modern approach to wellness.

Guests can indulge in a 30-minute treatment for $60 or opt for a more extensive 60-minute session priced at $120. Notably, those who choose the 60-minute treatment are granted complimentary access to the hotel’s iconic WET Deck, where they can unwind by the pool amid a lively atmosphere complete

with chilled waters and summer energy. This thoughtful integration of wellness and leisure exemplifies W Scottsdale’s commitment to providing an unparalleled guest experience.

David Cronin, the general manager of W Scottsdale, emphasizes the hotel’s dedication to exceeding guest expectations: “At W Scottsdale, we’re all about delivering bold offerings that go beyond the expectations of our guests. The debut of Aescape at AWAY Spa is a true game-changer for how our guests recharge and reset.” This sentiment resonates throughout the property, where luxury meets cutting-edge technology to create a wellness journey that embodies the dynamic spirit of Scottsdale.

AWAY Spa is more than just a place for relaxation; it is a sanctuary that offers a full menu of massages, facials, and body treatments, all curated to help guests look and feel their best. With the addition of Aescape, the spa is elevating its already impressive lineup to new heights. The AI-powered massage technology has already garnered acclaim, recently earning a Fast Company Innovation by Design award for its ergonomic benefits and groundbreaking use of artificial intelligence. Following its successful launch in New York City, Aescape is quickly becoming the go-to choice for those seeking an extraordinary wellness experience.

The Aescape machine itself is a marvel of modern engineering, designed to adapt to individual body types and preferences. By utilizing advanced AI, it customizes each massage to address specific areas of tension and discomfort, providing a level of precision that traditional massage therapies may not achieve. This revolutionary approach allows guests to experience the ultimate in relaxation, helping to alleviate stress while boosting overall performance and well-being.

The luxurious atmosphere of W Scottsdale enhances the overall experience, with chic design elements and vibrant social spaces that invite guests to indulge in the best that Scottsdale has to offer. The hotel features 241 guest rooms, including 44 lavish suites, each thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and style. Signature amenities like the Whatever/Whenever® concierge service and the FIT® fitness center ensure that guests have everything they need for an unforgettable stay.

Dining at W Scottsdale is equally impressive, with a variety of culinary options that cater to every taste. The hotel is home to several destination bars, including the Living Room Lounge and the Cottontail Lounge, where guests can unwind with expertly crafted cocktails and light bites. This summer, the highly anticipated Sexy Roman will join the lineup, adding yet another layer of culinary sophistication to the property.

As I explored the vibrant Scottsdale landscape, I was captivated by the hotel’s proximity to high-profile shopping, innovative dining options, and an eclectic arts district. W Scottsdale serves as the perfect base for those who wish to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a luxurious retreat.

W Scottsdale is not merely a hotel; it is a destination that combines luxury, innovation, and a commitment to wellness in a way that is truly remarkable. The debut of Aescape at AWAY Spa heralds a new era of personalized recovery, allowing guests to indulge in the ultimate self-care experience. For those looking to recharge and reset in style, W Scottsdale promises an unforgettable journey that embodies the essence of modern luxury living.

For details or to book an appointment at AWAY Spa, visit awayspascottsdale.com. To learn more about W Scottsdale, visit marriott.com/PHXWH.

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

30 EUCALYPTUS ROAD

30 EUCALYPTUS ROAD BELVEDERE

Belvedere furnished beautiful home for rent at $15,000 per month.

30 Eucalyptus is a newly remodeled home located on a quiet street on West side of Belvedere Island with no through tra c and panoramic views of San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito. A long driveway leading to the single floor home featuring a spacious open floorplan livingdining-kitchen combo all with high ceilings and wall-to-wall glass doors, this 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,261 Sq. Ft. home sits on a large appx. 0.73 acre street to street lot with 2 car garage, a beautiful pool, a spacious deck surrounds the pool, a huge wrap around view deck o every room and lush green landscaping.

30 Eucalyptus is a newly remodeled home located on a quiet street on West side of Belvedere Island with no through tra c and panoramic views of San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito. A long driveway leading to the single floor home featuring a spacious open floorplan livingdining-kitchen combo all with high ceilings and wall-to-wall glass doors, this 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,261 Sq. Ft. home sits on a large appx. 0.73 acre street to street lot with 2 car garage, a beautiful pool, a spacious deck surrounds the pool, a huge wrap around view deck o every room and lush green landscaping.

Belvedere is the best and safest community in Bay Area with a private and serene part-like setting and amenities include Belvedere-Tiburon Library, Belvedere Park with concerts and Community Arts and Recreation Programs, downtown Tiburon Ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, the Corinthian and San Francisco Yacht Clubs, the dozen fine restaurants, the Bayside bike paths, two public tennis courts and hundreds of acres of open space hiking trails on nearby Tiburon hills.

Belvedere is the best and safest community in Bay Area with a private and serene part-like setting and amenities include Belvedere-Tiburon Library, Belvedere Park with concerts and Community Arts and Recreation Programs, downtown Tiburon Ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, the Corinthian and San Francisco Yacht Clubs, the dozen fine restaurants, the Bayside bike paths, two public tennis courts and hundreds of acres of open space hiking trails on nearby Tiburon hills.

This summer, Louis Vuitton unveiled its latest high jewelry collection: the Virtuosity High Jewelry collection. A captivating repertoire of 110 unique pieces that weave the Maison’s iconic codes with rare gemstones, the collection praises unparalleled mastery and boundless creativity. Across 12 themes split between the “World of Mastery” and the “World of Creativity,” this collection transforms technical savoir-faire into liberated inventiveness, spotlighting treasures like a 30.56ct black opal and a 30.75ct Brazilian emerald, each becoming a piece unique in its esthetics and story.

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

THE BEAUTY IN HOROLOGY

Chanel unveils the Blush Watch capsule collection — a collection dedicated to the Maison’s beauty universe.

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

CHANEL’S WATCHMAKING CREATION STUDIO, UNDER THE DIRECTION of Arnaud Chastaingt, introduced a new collection that aims to translate the graphic intensity and chromatic audacity of Chanel’s makeup legacy into the realm of haute horlogerie. Drawing inspiration from Gabrielle Chanel’s forays into fragrance and cosmetics in the 1920s, the Blush collection melds the esthetic codes of beauty — powders, lipsticks, and lacquered cases — with the precision of Swiss watchmaking.

Chastaingt channels Chanel’s elegant simplicity, seen in the N°5 perfume, into timepieces that juxtapose black ceramic with vibrant pinks and reds from Chanel Beauty palettes, evoking Dripping Art and Pop Art.

The J12 Blush watches, available in 38 mm and 33 mm, anchor the collection. Powered by COSC-certified Caliber 12.1 (70-hour power reserve) and Caliber 12.2 (50-hour reserve) from Kenissi, they offer reliable performance with water resistance of 200 m and 50 m, respectively. The black ceramic case, a J12 hallmark, contrasts with pink and red lacquered

bezels and dials, creating a gradient effect reminiscent of makeup palettes. The 38 mm model features a unidirectional bezel, while the 33 mm dazzles with 46 baguette-cut pink sapphires (~4.04 carats).

Craftsmanship shines through métiers d’art like grand feu enamel, decal, and hand-set gemstones. The J12 Pink Line balances black ceramic baguettes with pink sapphires, while the J12 Pink Palette’s hammered pink sapphires mimic makeup textures. The exclusive Dripping Art box set of five J12s, with enamel splashes in rose beige to bold pink, nods to Jackson Pollock and Chanel nail polishes. The BOY·FRIEND Coco Art watch, with a Pop Art-inspired enamel dial, and the Protect Me and Kiss Me necklaces further blur jewelry and horology.

The Blush collection is a celebration of Chanel’s identity, transforming watches into wearable art. As Chastaingt poses the question: “Why not ‘put makeup’ on time to make it more beautiful? This vision of beauty became the heartbeat of the entire collection.”

IN WITH A BANG

Hublot unveils the Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve.

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

HUBLOT CONTINUES ITS PURSUIT OF INNOVATION WITH THE LAUNCH of the Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve, a bold addition to the Square Bang series. Known for challenging traditional norms, Hublot brings a new level of complexity and refinement to square watchmaking with this latest piece. It is the first Square Bang to feature two central hands and to house a Tourbillon, setting a new benchmark for form-meetsfunction design.

Hublot’s engineers developed the MHUB6023 manual movement exclusively for this release. With 174 components, each meticulously designed and placed, the movement features rectangular and square bridges rather than the typical circular architecture. A skeletonized structure amplifies the visual depth, revealing a beautifully constructed system that plays with light, geometry, and dimensionality.

The watch’s square geometry defines the entire architecture of the timepiece. Every component is arranged symmetrically along the square format, offering esthetic balance and mechanical integrity. On the right side is the winding system, while the left houses the power reserve indicator. At the top, the large barrel holds the energy to deliver an impressive 96-hour power reserve, and the Tourbillon sits at the bottom, anchored in precision.

CEO Julien Tornare, who took the helm in September 2024, has entered with a big bang at Hublot. He notes that most brands stop at square cases, but Hublot dared to go further. “Until now, advances in square watches have been rather timid, usually confined to the case alone. With the Square Bang Tourbillon 4-Day Power Reserve, we wanted to take the exercise to its logical conclusion, by designing a movement whose architecture is also fully rightangled. The bridges are straight, clean, and sharp, as if to protect a movement that always beats to the rhythm of a perfect circle, that of the Tourbillon, barrel, and power reserve. The fusion is complete,” he explains.

The Square Bang Tourbillon integrates square bridges and a fully rightangled internal layout, an innovation in the world of high-end mechanical watchmaking. This design philosophy perfectly embodies Hublot’s “Art of Fusion” — where tradition meets trailblazing engineering.

Adding to the novelty is its 3D carbon case, measuring 42 mm across and 13.2 mm thick. The case’s design is built using woven carbon composites arranged in horizontal and vertical structures to echo the square theme throughout. This lightweight yet durable material not only enhances wearability, but adds a sleek, modern edge to the timepiece.

Another standout feature is the power reserve display at the nine o’clock position, which accurately tracks the remaining energy with clear legibility. The use of a silicon escapement in the Tourbillon enhances resistance to magnetic fields and temperature variations — challenges commonly encountered in everyday wear — ensuring reliability under diverse conditions.

Introduced as the first Square Bang to include a Tourbillon, this timepiece sits at the intersection of artistic architecture and horological mastery.

Orange You Glad Omega Finally Did This?

Introducing Bond’s citrusy new Seamaster.

BY ANDRE FROIS

WHEN ACTOR KOHJI MORITSUGU APPEARED IN RETURN OF ULTRAMAN (1971) wearing a Speedmaster with an orange chronograph hand, orange accents in watchmaking were far from fashionable. The watch — a 1968 Omega Speedmaster Ref. 145.012 — played no role in the storyline, yet its presence was unforgettable. Collectors would later nickname it the Speedmaster “Ultraman,” and the orange-tipped hand became a cult symbol among Omega enthusiasts.

Believed to be the first Omega to sport the color orange, the “Ultraman” marked the beginning of a long-running love affair between the brand and the vibrant hue. Since then, orange has become nearly as synonymous with Omega as it is with the Dutch people. The brand, famed for timing the Olympics, landing on the moon, and industrializing George Daniels’ co-axial escapement, has returned to orange periodically, answering the call of collectors with models like the Speedmaster Mark II Racing Dial, the Seamaster Aqua Terra >15,000 Gauss, and the bold Seamaster Ploprof. Most notably, orange became a defining characteristic of the Seamaster Planet Ocean series, which introduced full orange bezels and straps into Omega’s design language.

Now, for the first time, orange has arrived on the Seamaster Diver 300M, aka James Bond’s favorite watch.

Under a domed sapphire crystal, orange accents bring zesty energy to the model’s classic 42 mm form. The lollipop seconds hand, cardinal hour markers, and the “Seamaster” logo are all rendered in bright orange, standing out against a matte black anodized aluminum dial that replaces the Diver 300M’s usual wave pattern. The scalloped unidirectional bezel, helium escape valve, and prominent crown guards retain the line’s utilitarian DNA.

Buyers can choose between a brushed stainless steel mesh bracelet with a folding clasp or a bold integrated orange rubber strap with a deployant clasp.

As you would expect of an Omega, its Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8806 is METAS-certified, anti-magnetic to 15,000 gauss, and equipped with the brand’s signature free-sprung balance with silicon hairspring. The finishing, visible through the sapphire caseback, includes trademark arabesque Geneva waves that adorn the oscillating weight.

You hardly need a writer to describe it and can see these subtly elegant touches yourself. But it bears repeating that few brands handle color and contrast with the finesse Omega does. The result is easy on the eyes: a timepiece that offers exceptional legibility and exudes understated elegance.

Carrera Continuation

Introducing the TAG Heuer EuropeanExclusive Carrera Chronograph.

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

TAG HEUER CONTINUES ITS CARRERA EXPANSION WITH THE LAUNCH of the Carrera Chronograph Limited Edition. Available exclusively in Europe, this timepiece embodies TAG Heuer’s innate connection to racing. This latest addition to the Carrera collection speaks directly to adventurers and motorsport enthusiasts who seek sophistication without sacrificing functionality. Its deep blue opaline dial, complemented by turquoise subdials and vibrant yellow accents, reimagines an iconic 1950s Heuer design with a bold modern twist.

The TAG Heuer Carrera collection is renowned worldwide for its timeless, sporty appeal and refined chronograph designs. Since its inception over six decades ago, it has captivated aficionados with clean lines, distinctive case shapes, and unparalleled legibility. The new Carrera Chronograph continues this tradition while injecting fresh energy through its thoughtful design and bold color combinations.

The design of this limited-edition timepiece draws inspiration from the original Heuer Seafarer watches. Created for explorers, athletes, and travelers, these vintage models now enjoy legendary status among collectors. A standout feature of the new Carrera Chronograph is its subdial layout. The turquoise blue accents at three o’clock and silver finishes across the dial are a nod to regatta countdown timers, while lacquered yellow hands evoke the spirit of boundless freedom and adventure. The 42 mm brushed and polished steel case strikes a balance between durability and elegance, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. The polished steel bezel, paired with a white flange featuring distinctive triangular fiveminute indicators, ensures perfect legibility — a signature characteristic of TAG Heuer’s design philosophy.

The chronograph’s dial layout includes three subdials: a turquoise and silver minute counter at three o’clock, a permanent rhodium-plated seconds indicator at six o’clock, and an azuré silver hour counter at nine o’clock. Lacquered yellow hands add visual contrast and modern vibrancy, while rhodium-plated, polished, and faceted hour markers enhance the watch’s luxurious esthetic.

Powering this timepiece is the in-house Calibre TH20-00 movement, visible through the sapphire crystal caseback. This automatic movement features bi-directional winding, a shield-shaped oscillating weight, and an impressive 80-hour power reserve, making it as functional as it is beautiful. Completing the look is a perforated blue calf leather strap with contrasting light blue stitching, secured by a brushed and polished steel folding clasp. The Carrera line has long stood as a symbol of TAG Heuer’s close ties to motorsport, with its clean lines and sporty sophistication reflecting the adrenaline-fueled world of racing. This new model pays homage to that heritage while embracing contemporary design cues that appeal to today’s luxury watch buyers.

Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix

A spectacular venue for one of the world’s premiere races.

BY TIM LAPPEN

MONACO! THE NAME CONJURES UP SO MANY IMAGES — luxury, yachting, glamour, gambling, James Bond, Princess Grace and, of course, for the car and racing fans around the globe, arguably the most elegant and alluring of all of the world’s automotive racetracks (a grand prix circuit since 1929), with a course that’s completely comprised of the city’s streets. The Monaco circuit joined the nascent Formula 1 program in 1950 and has held the world’s attention ever since.

To fully set the stage when discussing this famous race, Monaco is a principality (closely aligned with France) and covers only about 515 acres. Put another way, Monaco is substantially smaller than New York City’s Central Park, which is almost 850 acres. Its capital, Monte Carlo, has a name with even more of a cachet than Monaco (if that’s possible), since that’s the name of one of the most famous gambling casinos. Interestingly, even though Monaco is so small, Monte Carlo is but one of four distinct districts of Monaco and about 70 acres in size.

The grand prix (“grand prize”) of Monaco started with cars designed mostly for street use (for well-heeled car enthusiasts) about 100 years ago. Today, Formula 1 races are for purpose-built high-speed and higher-tech machines to vie for supremacy. Each F1 team today, with their incredible support networks, now includes dozens (sometimes hundreds) of specialists, some connected by high-speed internet connections to their home factories perhaps thousands of miles away. And lest we forget, I hasten to add that the piloti are very highly paid drivers, with salaries rumored to exceed $65 million. Fielding a Formula 1 team can run up to a rumored $150,000,000 per team (comprised of two cars and two drivers) every year. Let that sink in for a minute.

My son Jay and I were fortunate enough to attend this year’s Monaco Grand Prix — and what a trip it was! The setting is drop-dead gorgeous, where the French coast transitions into the hills of Monaco, which dramatically meet the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Luxury yachts vie for mooring locations where they can back up mere feet from the race track, and local airports are filled with private jets. It’s one of the toniest gatherings anywhere, a location where the world’s best machines and the most proficient drivers meet in front of huge crowds; estimated to include 250,000 people for the four-day event in June of each year. Monaco’s is one of the 24 F1 races this year to see who will be crowned the “King of the Hill.”

At the Monaco Grand Prix, since the track is so narrow, qualifying laps before race day determine the starting position, which is particularly critical at this circuit; a high percentage of the race’s winners have started the race in the number one position. This year’s race was no different. McLaren’s two entries — having an absolutely spectacular Formula 1 year — started in first and third spots on the starting grid and both finished the race in the same pole positions. Formula 1 races end based on elapsed total time, which can be extended due to inclement weather, accidents, and so forth, but only up to three hours — they typically last about 90 minutes. The Monaco race lasts 78 laps, and the Monaco circuit is the shortest of Formula 1 tracks at a little over two miles, and, due to the narrowness of the track and the number of turns, it’s also the slowest (typically 95 to 100 miles per hour). The first ten finishers are awarded points based on the order that their cars pass the start/finish line after the first car has completed the race. Therefore, especially in Monaco, the determining factors of who is the winner are qualifying position (based on how quickly they drive during the prior day’s qualifying sessions), how fast they handle pit stops, whether they are able to pass other cars, and if they can avoid having an accident or a mechanical breakdown.

Depending on the circuit and the weather, cars must change tires at least once every race and must use at least two of what typically are three types of tires (soft, medium, and hard) plus sometimes rain tires. Part of the strategy is determining what tire to use and when since — all things equal — the soft tires can provide higher cornering speeds but wear out faster. Also, while it might provide some speed advance to change tires several times, especially as the weather changes, pit stops eat up precious time, though they now are down to an exact science (a Ferrari driver’s 2.0 second tire change was this year’s fastest pit stop in Monaco). At this year’s race, the finishing position was determined by mere seconds — the winner, Lando Norris of Team McLaren, won in just over one hour and forty minutes; second place, Charles LeClerc of Team Ferrari, was about three seconds behind him; and third place, Oscar Piastri of Team McLaren, about three seconds behind him.

It is fitting that the other story in this month’s magazine is about the McLaren 750S, which pretty much is a race car for the street. So as you will see, what was learned on the track informs a lot of what will show up on the road. Luckily for me, both the Monaco trip and the McLaren loan were complete winners.

2025 McLaren 750S

Canyon-carver to night-on-the-town in one sleek package.

BY TIM LAPPEN

FAITHFUL READERS KNOW THAT I AM A BIG FAN OF THIS BRITISH BRAND. McLarens always feel faster than their specifications, meaning that they may accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in under three seconds, but they feel like they’re even quicker than that. And, after all, isn’t that what most of us want from performance? I mean, top speed is great and all that but for the daily stoplight grand prix, initial acceleration is the trump card.

I am writing this early in July, having just returned from the Monaco Grand Prix, where I watched McLaren dominate that race and several others since, so it was an absolutely perfect time to borrow their Earth-bound rocket, the 750S Coupe.

McLaren classifies their cars into three categories:

Supercars: Artura (coupe and spider) and 750S (coupe and spider), with base prices from about $255,000 to about $345,000

GTs: GTS, with a base price of about $220,000

Ultimates: W1, Elva, Senna and Senna GTR, and Speedtail, with base prices from about $1.7 million to about $2.25 million

Luckily for me, this story is about the 2025 McLaren 750S, which I was lucky enough to borrow for several days just weeks after watching McLaren take first and third pole positions at at the 2025 Monaco F1 Grand Prix.

Let’s start with the looks. The car looks fast as it’s sleek, low, and seems to have been sculpted by the wind. As much as I like open-top cars, the coupe looks even more streamlined. With extra carbon fiber bits and optional front fender vents, “my” Mantis Green machine looks both elegant and menacing, the perfect blend for a 740-horsepower machine with a dry weight of just over 2,800 pounds that can whip from zero to 60 miles per hour in about 2.8 seconds. (The car pictured in this article is McLaren’s racing team’s color, Papaya Orange). Clearly the body is writing checks that the engine, the seven-speed transmission and suspension, are more than ready to cash.

The purpose-built interior adds to the visual excitement — in my case with more carbon fiber add-ons (the Carbon Fiber Interior Pack adds about $8,750 and the 750S’ Performance Interior Pack comes with a $9,400 price tag). The beautiful speaker grills, part of the excellent Bowers & Wilkins 12-speaker audio system ($5,400), green contrast stitching (plus $850), and other accoutrements make the business office of this performance machine both serious and gorgeous.

Add a few more bells and a couple of whistles, like the Exterior Details Carbon Fiber Pack ($10,780) and the base price of $343,500 accelerates to $426,750.

I am not sure that it’s sufficient to say what it’s like to “drive” this car, as I felt more like I was wearing it, somewhat like an exoskeleton. And I mean that in a good way as the car is so incredibly responsive that it almost sensed what I was planning to do before I did it. I love the sound and the fury of the 750S’s rear, mid-mounted dual-overhead-cam twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, and with maximum power arriving at 7,500 RPM, it’s an incredible screamer. Some say that naturally aspirated engines (with no turbos) sound better than the rest, but the 750S creates an aria that comes directly from the car gods.

McLaren says that this is their lightest and most-powerful series production supercar ever and it sure feels it. Its stunning beauty is matched only by its incredible performance. With 740 horsepower, it has almost 30 more ponies than the model it replaces (the 720S), and it also weighs about 65 pounds less than its predecessor. Whether on the freeway, the boulevards, Mulholland Highway, or the twisties of the Malibu canyon roads, the 750S is completely at home and a joy to experience.

2025 Monterey Car Week HIGHLIGHTS

From the finest vintage automobiles to the debut of a brand-new American automaker

BY OLIVIA HSU DECKER

I HAVE BEEN ATTENDING THE PEBBLE BEACH CONCOURS d’Elegance every August since 1980, when my real estate client Arturo Keller introduced me to this event. Arturo was renowned for his fine collections of over 250 vintage cars, and I sold him many properties in the 1980s, including the Pyramids and Keller Estate where he built a private car museum and a winery. I assisted him in the search for some rare cars, such as an early Benz before the brand merged with Mercedes and a 1929 Mercedes SSK. I was very fortunate to learn about vintage cars through such a leading car collector who was the most prolific entrant to the Pebble Beach Concours of Elegance every year since 1979, winning Best of Show three times. Over the years, the Concours has given rise to a week of events leading up to a celebration of automotive elegance and excellence. The Concours showcases vintage cars while making history in the present with the latest new car debuts presented on the Concept Lawn. The 74th Concours celebration on August 17, 2025, featured three marques celebrating their centennials: Invicta, Chrysler, and Moretti. It also displayed the dramatic postwar creations of designer Virgil Exner, innovative racing greats of Formula 1 past and present, and the 60th anniversary of the Shelby Cobra 427.

BEST OF SHOW

The 2025 Concours Best of Show winner is the one-of-a-kind 1924 Hispano-Suiza H6C Nieuport-Astra Torpedo. It was the first time a Hispano-Suiza has won the prestigious concours since 1989. Presented by Penny and Lee Anderson Sr. of Naples, Florida, the winning car was originally commissioned by André Dubonnet, a gentleman racing driver and heir to the Dubonnet aperitif dynasty. Nicknamed the “Tulip Torpedo,” the aero-inspired machine wears a Nieuport-Astra body made from mahogany strips and secured with 8,500 rivets to evoke an aircraft fuselage. Weighing just 73 kilograms, the structure is strong yet light, making the H6C advanced for its era and a natural contender against the Targa Florio and Coppa Florio in that period. The H6C’s mahogany bodywork also drew the attention of Lee Anderson Sr.: “I like wood! I’m a collector of antique wooden boats. I started collecting them 40 years ago, before it became vogue-ish to do that. So, I’ve always loved varnished wood—and when I saw this I said, ‘My gosh! This is right in my wheelhouse. This is what I really like.’” He added, “Winning Pebble Beach is probably the highest award you can get in automobile collecting. We are very fortunate to have done it twice.” The Andersons previously won Best of Show at the 2022 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance with a Figoni-bodied

a 1956

356 1600

1932 Duesenberg Model J. “This Hispano-Suiza ticks every possible box,” commented concours chairman Sandra Button. “The underpinnings are technically advanced. The body is meticulously handcrafted, light, and lovely.”

Unsurprisingly, the Hispano-Suiza faced incredibly strong competition for the top prize: most notably, the 1939 Maybach SW38 Spohn Sport Zweisitzer of Dana and Patti Mecum, the 1933 Invicta 4½-litre S Type Corsica Drophead Coupé fielded by SBH of Bahrain, and Phillip Sarofim’s 1956 Maserati 200SI Fantuzzi sports racer.

THE CONCEPT LAWN

At the Concours Concept Car Lawn at The Lodge at Pebble Beach where new, innovative cars are presented, Maserati presented MCPURA Cielo Convertible’s North American debut hosted by Andrea Soriano, head of Maserati Americas; Nicole Longhini, head of marketing at Maserati Americas, and Alvin Bond, Maserati product specialist. Maserati also displayed three other models at Pebble Beach Concours Village: GT2 Stradale, GranTurismo Trofeo, and Grecale Trofeo.

Automobili Lamborghini also unveiled the brand new Fenomeno at the Concept Lawn. On August 14, Lucid hosted an exclusive unveiling of the newest concept vehicle—an extraordinary evolution of the Lucid Gravity SUV. Purpose-built for those who leave ordinary behind, this never-before-seen vehicle pushes the limits of the Lucid Gravity SUV even further.

Origins of Formula 1 from 1906 to 1940 at Concours

A PHANTOM CENTURY

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars celebrated a century of the Phantom at the 2025 Pebble Beach Concours. First introduced in 1925 as the successor to the Silver Ghost, the Rolls-Royce Phantom was conceived to exemplify the brand’s unmatched engineering excellence, technical refined, and bespoke luxury. Over the past 100 years, eight generations of Phantom have fulfilled that vision, establishing the name as the global standard of automotive excellence. This enduring legacy was honored at this year’s concours, where a specially curated “Phantom Centenary” class highlighted six historically significant RollsRoyce Phantom commissions.

To celebrate the occasion, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars delivered a Phantom VII Coupe and Phantom VIII Extended to round out the century of Phantom editions for a firstever photo and video event featuring all eight generations. These commissions include one example of each generation of Phantom, including past Pebble Beach award winners and vehicles once owned by the British royal family and global leaders, each embodying the timeless elegance of the marque. Rolls-Royce was the first marquee to be honored with an ongoing class at Pebble Beach, frequently filling multiple classes in the Concours’ early years. Today, it remains the most featured marque in the event’s history, with Phantom standing as the pinnacle.

LAMBORGHINI’S FULL NEW LINEUP

Lamborghini hosted VIP guests at its private Lamborghini Lounge at Pebble Beach, offering a fully immersive experience in Italian design and automotive innovation. The new Fenomeno, the few-off that debuted at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering on August 15, was displayed at the Lamborghini Lounge in a Giallo Crius colored exterior. Launched in limited quantity of 29 units, the Fenomeno represents the pinnacle of performance and brand exclusivity. At the Lamborghini Lounge, the brand also exhibited its full model lineup, including the Urus SE2, the first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the luxury Super SUV and the most versatile and fun-to-drive in its class; the Revuelto3, the first high-performance electrified vehicle (HPEV) delivering 1,015 CV and setting a new benchmark for hybrid super sports cars; and the Temerario4, the all-new successor to the iconic Huracán, featuring a new V8 engine capable of revving to 10,000 revolutions per minute.

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Polo Storico, the Lamborghini Lounge featured a special Miura P400. Originally delivered in 1968 through the Bologna dealership in green with a mustard-colored cloth interior, the car was repainted in Arancio Miura (orange) after an accident in 1971, a color it still wears today. Exported to the United States in 1972, it remained with the same owner for 40 years before undergoing light restoration in 2012 under its current ownership. Certified by Lamborghini Polo Storico in 2023, the car represents the iconic Miura, widely regarded as the first true supercar, and is one of only around 200 vehicles worldwide to have received official authenticity certification from the company.

At the Pebble Beach Concours on August 17, two historic Lamborghinis stood out in the classic car category, both brought by their owners. One was a 350GT in grigio medio (medium gray) with tobacco leather interior, delivered new in 1965 to the Jake Kaplan dealership in the United States and still preserved in its original configuration. The other, a Miura SV originally finished in rosso corsa (red) with black interior and delivered in 1971 in Milan, had just completed a full restoration in Italy, where it was repainted in metallic green. Both vehicles hold a certification of authenticity issued by Lamborghini Polo Storico, a document granted following thorough historical research and check. Proudly presented by their owners to the judges during the event, these certifications are a testament to the cars’ authenticity and a key reference in preserving the brand’s heritage.

TOUR D’ELEGANCE

The Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance is a scenic, 70-mile drive along the Monterey coast in which entrants demonstrate their cars’ roadworthiness. Completion of the Tour offers an advantage in a concours judging tie-break. A car that successfully completes the Tour gets the nod if it later ties in class competition at the Concours. Presented by Rolex, this is a free event, unlike the Concours and The Quail which require expensive tickets.

Every year, the Tour is where you’ll see some of the world’s greatest car collectors and enthusiasts nervously preparing their machinery—often fresh out of an intensive concours restoration—for a 70-mile drive from Pebble Beach. For some,

this will be the first time in years—or ever—that they’ve driven their cars for any distance, because Pebble Beach is so often the event at which fresh restorations or purchases are shown to the world. Spectators walk up and down the long lines of cars from 7 a.m., awaiting the Mercedes-Benz Classic-led start at 9:30 a.m. The cars head along 17-Mile Drive and Highway 1 to Big Sur, returning to Pebble Beach around noon. For most entrants, the Tour is one of the highlights of the week. For visitors, it’s a rare opportunity to watch some of the world’s greatest cars in action instead of seeing them on display at the Concours lawn.

RECORD-BREAKING FUNDS RAISED

Pebble Beach Foundation raised more than $4 million for charity this year. This pushes the cumulative total to $45 million, with most of the funds supporting youth education in Monterey County.

Complementing the concours, this year’s car auctions brought in high prices, too. The biggest auction sale at Monterey Car Week this year was a modern 2025 Ferrari. Just 599 examples of the Daytona SP3 were supposed to be built, but Ferrari put together a 600th car, used its logotype as a racing stripe, then auctioned it for charity through RM Sotheby’s. It fetched $26 million which was donated to the Ferrari Foundation for “future educational initiatives.” Gooding Christie’s Pebble Beach Auctions sold the second highest car, a 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder Competizione, for a record $25,305,000. This is apparently one of two alloy-bodied, full competition spec SWB California Spiders. It is also an absolute work of art and comes with “outstanding provenance.”

1996 FERRARI F50 GT1 AWARDED BEST OF SHOW AT THE QUAIL, A MOTORSPORTS GATHERING

Returned for its 22nd year at Monterey Car Week, The Quail awarded a 1996 Ferrari F50 GT1 as Best of Show this year. Owned by Art Zafiropoulo, the 1996 F50 GT1 was selected from a curated field of more than 200 entrants and stood out for its design, craftsmanship and historical significance. The winning vehicle was inducted into the Rolex Circle of Champions, a tradition celebrating the pinnacle of automotive excellence, and its owner received a specially engraved Oyster Perpetual Date just 36 presented by Luca Bernasconi, president and CEO of Rolex USA. The 1996 Ferrari F50 GT1 is one of the rarest and most extreme Ferraris ever built, a prototype created to take the F50 into top-tier GT1 racing. Chassis number 001, the only factory-assembled

test car, pairs a 750-horsepower evolution of Ferrari’s 4.7-liter V-12 with a carbon fiber monocoque, period-perfect aerodynamics, and race hardware. Built for the international GT1 class but never raced after Ferrari ended the program in 1997, it has remained with its first and only private owner, Zafiropoulo. With purposeful carbon bodywork, black Speedline wheels, and timeless proportions, the F50 GT1 stands as one of the iconic brand’s most desirable and formidable sports racers, noted the press release.

MORE FERRARIS

Hosted by David Lee, a collector of over 50 Ferraris, the Ferrari collectors VIP Party was held on August 15 at the lush garden of Casa Lee with a fleet of Ferraris overlooking the golf course of The Lodge at Pebble Beach. The event was organized by DMH Napa Valley, Luxury Group International, and Norcell and sponsored by the Lerner Project, Larchmont Jewelers, Rare Champagne, Golovinski, Hing Wa Lee Jewelers, Haute Caviar and Carte Blanche. A violinist played the entire event, while gourmet bites and caviar were served with Napa Valley wines from Alpha Omega Winery, Bella Oaks and John Anthony wines.

DACORA MOTORS DEBUTS

Dacora Motors debuted at a Pebble Beach home, presenting the first American-made, ultra-luxury vehicle in nearly a century and ushering in a new era of modern automaking defined by heritage design, craftsmanship, and transformative personalization. Each electric vehicle will be meticulously handcrafted using American-sourced components at Dacora’s design atelier and garage in New York’s Hudson Valley—a bold reaffirmation of intentional, domestic manufacturing. The brand debuts with reservations already exceeding 150% of its planned first-year production capacity. Pricing starts at $500,000. Founded by MIT-trained engineers Kristie and Eric D’Ambrosio-Correll, Dacora is the first female-founded and led automotive brand in history. Kristie serves as CEO and Eric as CTO, bringing over 30 years of shared experience across product design, systems engineering, and hardware innovation. Designed in collaboration with the legendary Pininfarina Group, Dacora’s debut model pays homage to the sweeping forms of 1930s Streamline Moderne, with long hoods, sculptural fenders, and a dramatic fastback silhouette.

At the heart of Dacora’s design philosophy is personalization

At the heart of Dacora’s design philosophy is personalization that extends beyond the point of purchase. Interiors are fully modular and can be reconfigured or refreshed seasonally, offering a tactile, emotional, and evolving relationship with the car over time. Unique twice-yearly drops let owners change interiors like wardrobes—think wool for winter, linen for summer, and limited-edition materials for seasonal expression. Modular seating configurations allow owners to choose from three to seven-seat layouts tailored to any lifestyle, from rearlounge executive setups to family-friendly bench options. Each seat includes independent lighting and climate controls. The adjustable floor system is engineered for ergonomic precision across all driver body types, and owners may supply personal materials to integrate into the cabin’s finishes.

The return of driving as a sensory experience rejects screendominated cockpits. Dacora has reimagined the driving experience with a tactile interface and a non-touchscreen display that fades seamlessly into the woodwork. When not in use, the digital display disappears behind a semi-transparent wooden panel, creating a serene, analog-inspired cabin. All controls are mechanical, intentional, and designed for muscle memory—not distraction. Physical dials and switches replace a central touchscreen, with navigation and system information emerging through the woodgrain only when needed.

All-natural materials and craftsmanship means no plastic interiors: only hardwoods, woven wool, and hand-stitched leathers, all selected for breathability, longevity, and tactile richness. The interior is engineered to calm the nervous system and sharpen the senses, creating a serene, emotionally resonant experience. The car features over 800 horsepower, has a projected 400-mile all-electric range, 25 cubic feet of

75th

customizable cargo space, and 45 inches of rear legroom. An optional hybrid powertrain is available upon request.

Kristie D’Ambrosio-Correll brings a rare ability to bridge engineering precision with timeless design. As former CTO of Mirror, she led the product from prototype to a $500 million acquisition in under two years, turning a functional fitness screen into a luxury consumer experience. At Dacora, she applies that same ethos to automotive design. “At Dacora, we believe true luxury is about connection: between driver and machine, tradition and technology, form and function,” said Kristie D’AmbrosioCorrell. “We set out to build a car that doesn’t compromise between beauty, power, and personalization. We’re inspired by timeless design and driven by a belief that the future of luxury is deeply personal, deeply connected, and unmistakably human.”

Dacora is proudly backed by Female Founders Fund, an early-stage venture firm known for identifying category-defining businesses led by women. “Kristie is building something rare with Dacora,” said Anu Duggal, founding partner of Female Founders Fund. “She brings together exceptional technical expertise and a lifelong passion for cars to create a new standard in American luxury. As the first woman to found and lead a car company, she’s making history while delivering a product that’s as thoughtful as it is bold. That’s exactly the kind of founder we’re proud to invest and believe in.”

In 2026, Dacora will open its 100-acre Hudson Valley Garage—a one-of-a-kind automotive campus with on-site production, design atelier, guest accommodations, and immersive experiences. Each new owner receives a symbolic set of keys, granting access to curated events, the Hudson Valley estate, and behind-the-scenes interaction with Dacora’s craftspeople and designers. To learn more, visit dacora.com.

The Monterey Car Week British Motoring Superfecta

Aston Martin, Land Rover, Jaguar, Rolls-Royce, McLaren, and Bentley

BY ADAM ROUTLEDGE

TO CELEBRATE SURVIVING THE 365 DAYS SINCE MONTEREY

Car Week 2024, I kicked off the 2025 events in style by rallying an Aston Martin DBX707 from the Quail Lodge up through Big Sur. As Aston Martin was celebrating its 75th anniversary in the Americas with a commanding presence during Car Week, this felt like the most appropriate way to start what was one of the biggest weeks Carmel has seen.

With the integration of Aston Martin’s all-new “infotainment” system, including Apple CarPlay Ultra, and striking new interior design, the sheer power of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing an epic 900Nm of torque easily kept pace with every supercar driving at the speed limit along the winding roads of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). In fact, I cannot agree more with Aston’s statement that the DBX707 is the “supercar of SUVs.” It’s the first way to describe the driving experience, characterized by almost any GT supercar I have driven, but with the added benefit of being able to very comfortably seat five people and their luggage.

Debuting globally at The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, Aston Martin revealed their new Thrillseeker Collection, a special trio of convertible sports cars delivered by the brand’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin. The collection, inspired by the evolving hues of Carmel Bay and the visceral joy of open-air driving next to the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, features a Vantage roadster in Mako Blue to evoke the

dawn skies and morning fog; a DB12 Volante in Seychelles Blue, channeling the vibrant energy of the afternoon sun; and a Vanquish Volante in Ultramarine Black, capturing the mystery and drama of dusk. Each car features bronze wheels, bronze side strakes, and a signature bronze rotary center dial evoking the amber sun of the Pacific Coast, with bespoke luggage for the icing on the cake.

The only bad news is that the Thrillseeker collection is limited to nine units, which are all sold. Upon realizing this, I had no choice but to go back to the House of Aston Martin, positioned alongside the famed Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and enjoy the activations with their newly announced whiskey partner, Glenfiddich. The new collaboration with Aston Martin builds on Glenfiddich’s ongoing relationship with the Aston Martin Formula One™ Team uniting two iconic British brands in a shared pursuit of excellence. Appropriately, the centerpiece of the House of Aston Martin was the Valhalla, Aston’s first series production mid-engined supercar and first plug-in hybrid, limited to 999 units, embodying the same rarity, precision, and future-facing visions as the Glenfiddich 1976 Vintage.

Just down the road at Range Rover House, another Monterey Bay-inspired reveal occurred in the form of the Range Rover SV Asimolar Edition. Inspired by the spectrum of blue hues found in the natural beauty of Asimolar Cove within

Monterey Bay, this specially curated model by SV Bespoke (the same team I was lucky enough to visit in the Cotswolds in 2024) features a light and dark blue fade duotone exterior and a Liberty Blue leather and gray Kvadrat interior. Similarly to the previous limited Range Rover SV Carmel Editions launched during Monterey Car Week, the Asimolar is powered by the latest generation 4.4-liter twin turbo V8 engine that produces 606 horsepower. Unlike previous years where there was a small production of limited edition cars available to buy, the Asimolar is a unique one-of-one, with the VIP guests of Range Rover House receiving the first opportunity to register their intent to purchase. As in previous years, Range Rover House was the ideal setting for the brand to display its current lineup, including the Range Rover SV, Range Rover Sport SV, and curated collection of historic Range Rover icons from years past, including a non-production “Velar” prototype from the earliest days of the brand and models part of the Great Expeditions display at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

The Land Rover Classic presentation could not help but excite the Land Rover fan in me with a collection spanning over 75 years of adventure, including the U.S. debut of Pollyanna, a 1950 series I piloted by pioneering explorer, author, and playwright Barbara Toy; the 1972 Trans America Range Rover, which traversed the Darien Gap; and the 2014 Range Rover DHEV Silk Road Expedition car. It is always a special experience to see next to each other the generations of cars that genuinely had a distinguishable impact in the evolution of the motor industry and, in this instance, endurance exploration.

Fast forward to present day and arguably the future, I attended a celebration of British creativity and originality in Monterey curated by the team at Jaguar, previewing their Type 00 on the West Coast for the first time. While this was a continuation of the tour that has included the streets of Paris,

Monaco’s harbor, the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and a rooftop in Miami (which I visited earlier this year and covered in detail in the Haute Living July/August 2025 print edition), it was still very impressive to see the immediate reaction of those seeing the car in person for the first time. The Type 00, presented this time in French Ultramarine, a bespoke color developed in-house by the Jaguar creative team, is certainly stirring up dynamic conversations within the auto industry. Presented at Jaguar’s Open Studio Party on Monterey Lighthouse Avenue collaborated with Harper’s BAZAAR and Road & Track with special DJ set by Questlove and DJ Hesta Prynn, it presented the exuberance of Jaguar Type 00 with curated expressions in fashion, music and also featured Scott Eastwood, Clint Eastwood’s actor/producer/model son who modeled the new Jaguar Type 00 for guests.

Back up the Pacific Coast Highway and hosted in a contemporary home with one of the best ocean views I have ever seen, Rolls-Royce celebrated 100 years since it first applied the Phantom name to one of its ultra-luxurious cars. I was kindly invited, along with my guests, to experience and drive the Black Badge Rolls-Royce Spectre, Cullinan Series II, and Ghost Series II. Introduced with the Ghost in 2021, RollsRoyce’s Black Badge is their bolder-in-attitude and bespoke lineup with enhanced power, torque, and control making a statement with dark features. Spending most of my time in the Black Badge Spectre, the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history, it became clear that this pure-electric super-coupe with two electric motors generating 577 bhp in normal drive mode and 650 bhp in “Infiniti” mode is something else. The nearly three-ton car produces a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds with the best roll stabilization I have ever experienced from the stiffenedup dampers. I cannot reiterate how comfortable, vibration-free and noiseless this car was getting up to the speed limit and no

more (similar to my DBX707 drive above) on the PCH’s winding route. With the famous Rolls-Royce Starlight Headliner expanding itself across the door interiors of the Spectre, I still think this track-worthy behemoth is something I would rather be driven in than drive on a daily basis. However, I won’t let my personal view on EVs versus combustion hinder any praise for this exceptional, industry-leading car as it was genuinely a view-altering experience.

My final stop of the British manufacturer superfecta was Château McLaren to celebrate McLaren’s return to Le Mans with the CEO of McLaren Racing, Zak Brown. The cocktail party hosted at the beautiful Château property hidden within the hills of Carmel Valley was a fitting venue to get to see in the flesh for the first time McLaren’s project: an endurance car. The collaboration between the company’s automotive and racing divisions to design and build a customer track derivative of the 2027 Le Mans Daytona H Hypercar marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for the company, currently sitting comfortably in pole position in the 2025 F1 standings.

I missed visiting the debut of Bentley Concept Car EXP 15 which was inspired by the 1930 Bentley Speed Six Gurney Nutting Blue Train Sportsman coupe. The designs include Upright Elegance at the front fender profile, the Iconic GrilleBentley’s classic grill reimagined for electric cars, the Endless Bonnet Line (visual length), the Resting Beast (lines that suggest animal muscularity), and the Prestigious Shield (a redesigned Bentley emblem for the rear. EXP 15 is not available yet, Robin Page, the Bentley Director of Design said: “EXP 15 is a strong statement of intent. The feedback received from the audience at Pebble Beach will be used to inform the brand’s design evolution, as we continue the journey to design and develop the next generation of electrified Bentley grand tourers.”

While I am by no means biased toward British manufacturers (you may make your own assumptions), it was really great to see such an expanded presence during Monterey Car Week this year, highlighting and representing the heritage and future of British engineering and motor racing in many different settings. May it continue!

Saddleback Cay, Exuma Cays

Private Island | 52 Acres | 90’ Elevations | $24,900,000

Deepwater Access. 4 beaches. Neighboring Norman’s Cay, with 4,800’ runway, an official port of entry. World-class marinas nearby. Property ID 62398

christopher.ansell@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.427.0082

Old Bahama Bay, Grand Bahama

200’ Deepwater Dockage | 14,400 sf | $7,500,000

Evansted. Exquisite Canalfront Sanctuary. Unrivaled Water Access. 7 BR, 8/1 Baths. Main residence with 2 private master suites. Multi-level Pool and Spa. Property ID 63394

christopher.albury@sirbahamas.com +1.242.359.6885

Near Green Turtle Cay, Abaco

Private Island | 5 Acres | Price Upon Enquiry Island Oasis. 5 Acres, Main + Guest House. 7 BR, 9 BA, 10,280 sf. Pool. Property ID 87521

lana.rademaker@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.457.0406

mitzi.pearce@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.577.5438

Old Fort Bay, Nassau

Canalfront | 5 BR | 4/2 BA | 7,327 sf | $7,500,000

Elysium, 3 Bay Creek. Modern open-plan home with pool, spa, sauna, outdoor kitchen, high ceilings, 90-ft. canal frontage, dock, 2-car garage. Property ID 57704

nick.damianos@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.376.1841

Villa Tardieu

One of the most prestigious estates in South of France can be yours.

BY OLIVIA HSU DECKER

ANDRÉ TARDIEU WAS THE PRIME MINISTER AND PRESIDENT of France between 1929 and 1932 and a dominant figure in French political life with a strong intellectual reputation. He withdrew from political life in 1934 and settled permanently in his Menton villa until his death in 1945. Tardieu was a politically strongwilled figure known for his love of luxury and modernity. He was nicknamed “The Miraculous.”

In 1928, he had his villa built on the Annonciade Hill, the most temperate location in France. He entrusted the design to the famous art deco architect Pierre Patout, decorator of the Île-deFrance and the SS Normandie ocean liner. Long horizontal lines, accentuation of curves and bends, walkways, and a rooftop terrace conceived like a bridge: Pierre Patout designed an architecture characteristic of the “style paquebot.” This specific aesthetic, combined with the personality of its owner, naturally led the Villa Tardieu to be nicknamed the “Commander’s Head.” While the architecture of this white, sleek, modern villa stands out from the traditional Belle Époque villas of Menton, the interior decoration proves equally refined. As president of the Society of Decorative Artists, André Tardieu called upon the finest designers.

Built in 1930 as the private residence of President Tardieu, this spacious villa with 18,300 square feet of living space is considered one of the most prestigious estates on the Côte d’Azur. The 22 acres of rare land with amazing landscaping covers an entire hill situated only 12 minutes from Monte Carlo in the best microclimate of France and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea and mountains. The villa was built by the master of art deco architect, Pierre Patout, renowned for the worldfamous ocean liner, SS Normandie.

The entire home and its furniture were designed by ÉmileJacques Ruhlmann, known as “Art Deco’s greatest artist.” In 2011, a desk designed by Ruhlmann from this villa, which belonged to President Tardieu, sold for $4 million at Christie’s auction. World class crystal craftsman Lalique crafted amazing ceiling lights and wall lamps completed by original crystal pieces throughout the house. Edgar Brandt designed the ironwork. The most prestigious designer of the art deco period, Ruhlmann designed the Grand Library, a gift from the French Senate. The office, a gift from Georges Benjamin Clemenceau (former French statesman), and the dining room were all designed and signed by Ruhlmann.

The villa also features a fantastic heated swimming pool (148 feet long), a beautiful guest villa (1,615 square feet), a 2,300-foot driveway, ample parking, and a private heliport. (The villa is 25 minutes from world-renowned beach resort Saint-Tropez and 45 minutes from ski resort Courchevel by helicopter.)

The magnificent villa entertained some of the world’s most influential artists, politicians, and royalty, including Sir Winston Churchill, René Coty (French President), famous French actress Mary Marquet, and many royal families of Europe. Other worldrenowned former owners included H.S.H. Prince Rainier of Monaco and Monaco real estate tycoon Mr. Jean-Baptiste Pastor. Price upon request.

Please contact exclusive agent for further information: Olivia Decker Founder and Co-Owner, Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty Cell +1. 415.720.5915

Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com www.VillaTardieu.com

Lydia Graham is a passionate advocate of healthy living. She has launched and positioned health and wellness-related companies, products, technologies, and organizations receiving more than 100 awards nationally and internationally. Her focus in the health sector is specifically on healthy living, aging, and longevity. She is a partner and investor in several nationally recognized brands. Graham envisions the possibility people can enjoy life at 95 as much as at 25 and that the steps we take each day matter on our heallh journey.

The Monterey Museum of Art’s Fall Season: “Mid-century Big Sur” Features Four Exhibitions Exploring Big Sur’s Creative Golden Age

A museum visit might be just what the doctor ordered.

BY LYDIA GRAHAM

AS THE BAY AREA’S ART SEASON KICKS OFF, WE REFLECT ON how the visual and performing arts enrich our lives, how they heal and inspire us, why we love and support them, and why they are so important.

Our museums and cultural institutions capture our shared history, rooting us in community. Besides holding memories and experiencing sheer pleasure, for those of us on a wellness path, can art also improve our well-being individually and collectively? An entire field, neuroaesthetics, devoted to answering that question explores the interaction of the arts and wellness and the “impact of artistic beauty on the human psyche and biological well-being.” A study by Finlay et. al. and published in Wellbeing, Space, and Society found living in a community with cultural resources confers a fiveyear advantage in cognitive age, while museums and similar cultural organizations provide the biggest boost to cognitive health. A Mayo Clinic blog post, “The intersection of art and health: How art can help promote well-being,” cites the American Congress of Rehabilitation

Medicine on how “making or even just seeing art can impact health” in the following ways. It “increases serotonin levels, increases blood flow to the part of the brain associated with pleasure, fosters new ways of thinking, (and helps us) to imagine a more hopeful future.” Some physicians these days even write prescriptions for museum visits. Net-net, there is growing consensus that arts are good for us whether we passively view art or create it.

One of my favorite places to view and experience art in Northern California is just a short drive down our beautiful coastline. The Monterey Museum of Art (MMA) in Monterey, California, although sometimes overshadowed in size only (its size is actually one of its charms), by some of its larger Bay Area counterparts, delivers on a singular focus and promise to celebrate the diversity of California art—past, present, and future—in an outsized way. Situated in Monterey, a region historically and currently steeped in artistic endeavors, MMA works to uncover and tell stories that otherwise would be lost forever. It successfully does exactly this in its upcoming

fall 2025 exhibition season, “Mid-century Big Sur,” which is must-see.

MMA Executive Director Corey Madden notes, “MMA’s Big Sur Season is a once-in-a generation opportunity to see rare works from private collections. The exhibition curators have done a remarkable job of taking visitors inside mid-century Big Sur.”

MID-CENTURY BIG SUR: A SIREN FOR POST-WAR ARTISTS AND WRITERS

An eclectic group of artists, fleeing the expanding suburbanization of postwar America, flocked to Big Sur in search of solitude and nature as one of the last vestiges of the wild and free American West. Big Sur captured the national consciousness during the mid-century and became an aspirational idea as much as a location. Author Lillian Bos Ross described it as “not a place at all, but a state of mind.”

During the mid-century, Highway 1 served as a physical and spiritual conduit between the bohemian communities of San Francisco and Big Sur. In 1954, a tourist guide included an impressive list of 100 painters, architects, musicians, sculptors, dancers, poets, and writers calling Big Sur home. Geographically distant from established art centers, few Big Sur artists were influenced by mid-century art movements such as abstract expressionism. What resulted was a prevailing attitude of independent thinking and experimentation producing fertile ground for creating truly original art forms embracing unique approaches often with an emphasis on craft, design, and tactile materials. Visitors to the exhibition can explore how this “power of place” drew postwar artists and writers to Big Sur, creating the roots of a vibrant community of inspiration, respite, and creative freedom that still thrives today.

FOUR EXHIBITIONS EXPLORE BIG SUR’S CREATIVE GOLDEN AGE

MMA’s exhibitions and programs focus on the rich cultural heritage of Monterey County and the surrounding Central California region. For art lovers, it is an important stop when visiting the area. The upcoming Mid-

century Big Sur Season reflects the museum’s commitment to display rarely exhibited works of both recognized and under-recognized regional artists. Four exhibitions center on the emotional and spiritual energy of the ruggedly beautiful Big Sur landscape. The art and archival material on display draw from both the museum’s permanent collection as well as from galleries, libraries, historic sites, and private collections.

A Garden of Earthly Delights: Henry Miller’s Big Sur

Offers a rare glimpse into Henry Miller’s life in Big Sur (1944-1962) with selected letters, photographs, journals, and artifacts, some on view for the first time.

August 29 - November 16, 2025

A World Apart: Big Sur in the Mid-century

Features artists working in and around Big Sur from 1950s to 1970s. September 11 - November 30, 2025

A Sense of Wonder: Photographs of Big Sur

Showcases iconic images by Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, Wynn Bullock, and Henry Gilpin

September 11, 2025 - January 18, 2026,

Human | Nature: California Zen in Big Sur and the Bay Area

Examines the influence of California Zen Buddhism on the artists and thinkers in California’s mid-century counterculture

September 18, 2025 - January 25, 2026,

Mid-century Big Sur was a world apart where art, literature, nature, and community intersected in fascinating and unexpected ways. Discover more at www.montereyart.org. Its legacy still inspires Big Sur’s artistic spirit at The Henry Miller Memorial Library, The Hawthorne Gallery, and The Emile Norman Arts Foundation.

*Lydia Graham is a current board member of MMA.

Aubrey Brewster, a bon vivant and man-about-town, is a. product of his environment. His affinity for cooking, fashion, and entertaining was inherited from summer vacations shared in Charleston, West Virginia with his Southern belle model-turned-hostess grandmother. It should come as no surprise that Brewster followed in his grandmother’s footsteps, with an inherent talent for hosting legendary parties. He is often listed among San Francisco’s best dressed. Aubrey is a San Francisco native, traveler, and food and lifestyle blogger (aubreyabouttown.com). He resides in San Francisco with his husband, Edward. Aubrey can be found enjoying afternoons lunching with friends at Neiman Marcus and some of San Francisco’s favorite haunts when not hosting or attending events.

Aubrey About Town

It’s Fall Y’ALL

A Thanksgiving tradition

BY AUBREY BREWSTER

IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE THAT AUTUMN IS HERE, BACK-TO-SCHOOL shopping is finished and kids are back in class donning their new classroom frocks and travel arrangements are booked and the fashionable are heading to Paris in chic fashion week looks and sipping on Aperol spritzes on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. October has us pulling out those spooky decorations in preparation of the Halloween festivities.

Where did the time go? It was just weeks ago that summertime had us basking in the sun in tropical locales, enjoying summer travels, cookouts with friends, and perfect San Francisco Bay Area weather. And then there’s Thanksgiving, oh my!

Thanksgiving is a holiday that most of us can really get behind—a day that we spend with family and friends enjoying good company, a football game or two, a bit of healthy board game competition, and great food to name a few. There is no depression, stress, or chaos or a need to worry about finding that perfect Christmas/holiday gift or the need in outdoing oneself in trimming the tree and decorating the house. Thanksgiving, simply put, is a day to chill and give thanks... unless, of course you are the host! But there’s no need for it to be that way. Whether you’re a seasoned host or a first-timer, I hope I can shed some light and tips on making it simple as (pumpkin) pie!

Taking lead from and beginning my own tradition that I learned from my late grandmother, Ruth Ann Brewster, who herself was the family Thanksgiving dinner host and whose Thanksgiving potato dinner rolls were legendary (imagine the roll’s fluffy and light as air interior and crisp crust tasting like the skin of a baked potato served with whipped chive butter!), I have been hosting Thanksgiving dinner for over three decades

for friends and have perfected my own traditions, such as my own soft and fluffy dinner rolls—a recipe I’m more than happy to share with you! Many guests had made the day of thanks at our home their yearly tradition, and we try to include new guests when seats become available.

I’m not going to lie to you and proclaim (like many) that putting together “the perfect thanksgiving dinner” is effortless, God knows, it’s anything but. However, I can say that over the last 30 years in preparing it all on my own from scratch that I have learned a thing or two in making it less of an effort. And making it something extra special. Remember, guests put their trust in you to put forth and present a day that means a lot to them and often evokes nostalgia. With that said, by all means, offer foods that may be new to them, but be sure to keep the classics.

Allow me to share a “case in point” example. I can remember it like it was yesterday…One thanksgiving years ago, I had just gotten back from Paris and with bright eyes, newfound ambition, and all things Parisienne on my mind, I “thought” it would be a fabulous idea to cook up a very elegant, French-inspired menu of sweetbreads in saffron crème topped with caviar; a Camembert walnut, and red Belgian endive salad, and foie gras châtaigne stuffed roasted quail, and a pear-pomegranate frangipane tart for dessert. Guests sat there cross and completely silent until my old pal Joanna quietly and firmly said, “Aubrey, darling, I’m sure I can speak for myself and everyone else: this dinner looks gorgeous, and would be most splendid for any other time, but, honey, where’s the damn turkey and mashed potatoes?!” Everyone giggled nervously. The next year when inviting everyone for thanksgiving, the first thing asked was “Will there be turkey and pumpkin pie?” So, now if I want to add something elegant, I’ll do something familiar yet chic, and always as a side, like sautéed vegetable medley with shaved truffles. Lesson learned.

When planning the Thanksgiving festivities, the first thing I must do is to get the invitations out and as early as possible. I prefer a month out so guests can rest assured in knowing what they are doing for Thanksgiving and even create a buzz about it.

The invitation is always a bit whimsical and a tad elegant and something that will remind them of the big day for years to come. I’ve sent out covered ceramic pumpkin pie serving dishes filled with oldtimey candies with my recipe for pumpkin pie attached, wooden bread baskets with the recipe for my rolls, and porcelain gravy boats filled with autumn colored, foil-wrapped chocolate balls with my turkey gravy recipe, just to name a few. Receiving the invitations in the post is in itself special and builds excitement.

Next, I come up with the menu. As I covered before, it’s generally the same year to year with an occasional surprise. But many recipes I serve have become favorites for guests, and who am I to disappoint? Plus, it’s good to have a menu that’s tried and true. I write a shopping list for each dish being served and check my pantry for spices. This is a good time to toss out that year-old pumpkin pie spice and poultry seasoning and make sure you restock with fresh. The same goes for yeast, baking powder, etc. I have a schedule that starts four days in advance of Thanksgiving Day. This year (2025), Thanksgiving Day is Thursday, November 27, so my schedule is as follows: on Sunday the 24th, I’ll shop for groceries, the housekeeper and I will give the house a good cleaning, and I’ll make

my Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce, a tradition I’m delighted to share with you below. (It tastes better when made in advance.) Monday I’ll polish silver, if necessary, set the table, and set up the buffet and décor such as gourds, pumpkins, flowers – the flowers will have time to open. Tuesday, I bake the pies. I bake one apple (Ed’s favorite). If Mayor Willie L. Brown Jr. is coming, I’ll bake one sweet potato (his favorite), one pecan (my favorite), and two pumpkin pies (everyone’s favorite), and I’ll buy cute autumnal sweets to add to the pie/dessert station. On Wednesday, I’ll prepare the vegetables, chopping celery and onions, and prepare the stuffing, allowing it to cool before refrigerating it. I blanch the green beans and other vegetables for the truffled vegetable medley and peel potatoes and sweet potatoes and keep them fresh in water in the refrigerator and make the rolls. On the big day, I’m able to relax more, and all I need to do is boil and mash the potatoes and bake the candied yams, (putting them both in chafing dishes to keep warm until dinnertime) and roast the turkeys and make the gravy from the drippings. (I roast two: one I slice and keep in a chafing dish, so guests can easily help themselves, and one is the “show turkey” that is beautifully coifed and displayed on the buffet table.) Lastly, I’ll warm up the stuffing, fluff it with a fork and keep warm in a chafing dish. As guests sit down, I’ll pop the rolls in the oven to warm up. With a bit of organization and a schedule, it’s not as much of an effort as it may seem. And that’s how I keep the tradition year to year!

GRAND MARNIER CRANBERRY SAUCE

This is one of my oldest recipes in my arsenal and hands-down my most requested recipes for the Thanksgiving table. It has become a tradition for nearly all who have tried it, and it’s the cranberry sauce that everyone can enjoy: both team canned jelly and team chunky love it, and it has made converts of those who used to only like that stuff from the can!

For more years than I wish to confess, it has been the very first thing I make every year when beginning my Thanksgiving dinner prep work. It immediately conveys that Thanksgiving time has begun—wafts of sweet and tart cranberries, cinnamon, and orange are synonymous with the big day, and the aroma through the house is everything Thanksgiving.

INGREDIENTS

~ 2 12-ounce bags fresh cranberries

~ 2 cups granulated sugar

~ 2 tablespoons orange zest, (zest of 2 oranges)

~ 2/3 cup orange juice, separated in to two 1/3 cups

~ 1 cup water

~ 1 tablespoon cinnamon

~ 1/3 cup Grand Marnier liqueur

~ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

INGREDIENTS

~ 6 garlic cloves, chopped

~ 4 cups all-purpose flour

~ 1½ cups milk, whole or 2% milk fat, warmed to 110 degrees Fahrenheit

~ 1/2 cup butter, softened (cut into 1/4-inch cubes)

~ 1/3 cup granulated sugar

~ 1/4 cup melted butter (salted)

~ 2 tablespoons dried milk powder, optional (gives the roll a richer taste)

~ 2 tablespoons instant yeast, (I use Fleischmann’s RapidRise)

~ 1 teaspoon kosher salt

~ Butter for greasing

INSTRUCTIONS

In a 4-quart saucepan, over medium-high heat, add: one 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries, sugar, orange zest, 1/3 cup orange juice, and water.

Simmer over medium-high heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, using the back of a wooden spoon or heat-resistant rubber spatula to gently press cranberries against the side of the pan to gently pop them if they haven’t popped on their own while simmering.

Stir in cinnamon and continue to simmer until the natural pectin in the cranberries has thickened, and it coats the back of a spoon.

Stir in the other 1/3 cup orange juice, and the remaining 12-ounce bag of cranberries.

Reduce heat to medium-low, and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, stirring and pressing cranberries, as above.

Simmer 10 minutes longer or until it’s the consistency of apple sauce.

Stir in Grand Marnier liqueur, and simmer 5 minutes longer to cook out alcohol.

Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract.

Allow to cool to room temperature, store in 32-ounce plastic container. The natural pectin in the cranberries will further set the relish during refrigeration.

CLASSIC SOFT DINNER ROLLS

Soft, buttery, warm, and spongey, this quick version of the nostalgic American roll beckons the moment you smell the aroma from the oven. Synonymous with Thanksgiving Day and the holidays, this classic special occasion family favorite takes only 90 minutes to prepare, so there’s no special occasion needed, and you may enjoy them fresh any day of the week.

INSTRUCTIONS

In the bowl of a stand mixer outfitted with the dough hook attachment, on low speed, mix together 3 cups of the flour, instant yeast, dried milk powder, sugar, and salt until combined (about 30 seconds).

Continuing on low, to the flour-yeast mixture, add warm milk, beaten egg, and cubed butter. Mix until combined, and butter has melted and has fully incorporated—being sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula.

Increase mixer speed to medium and knead dough for 3 minutes.

In the meantime, with the butter for greasing, butter a large mixing/bread bowl. Set aside.

Lower mixer speed to low and slowly add the remaining 1 cup of flour, scraping the bottom and sides of bowl with a rubber spatula.

Return mixer to medium and continue to knead dough for 3 minutes until the dough forms a soft ball and pulls away from the bowl. The dough should be elastic, and tacky to the touch.

Transfer dough to the large, buttered bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and place in a draft-free, room-temperature place to proof (rise) for 40 minutes and the dough has doubled in size (I use the cooled oven for this).

Line the bottom of a 15-1/2” x 12” sheet pan with parchment paper.

Punch down dough to deflate, form 20 golf ball-sized balls (about 2-ounces each). Roll in between hands to form a perfect ball, pulling smooth to a pinch.

Place dough ball pinched-side down on to the cookie sheet, spacing 1-inch apart - 5 balls lengthwise, 4 across. Cover lightly with plastic wrap, allow to proof 30 minutes longer, or until dough balls have doubled in size.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bake on middle rack for 14 minutes or until tops have turned a rich golden brown. Immediately and generously spoon or brush the top of each roll with melted salted butter. Serve hot.

If freezing, allow to cool completely before storing in airtight zipper storage bags. Keeps 3 weeks. To warm frozen rolls, place frozen rolls on a baking sheet and loosely cover with foil (to keep in moisture). Warm in a preheated 325 degree oven for 8 minutes.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

The Happy Body

Book Review: by Richard A. Moran

Embracing The Happy Body: A journey to wellness and strength.

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

“Vineyards are most beautiful right before harvest. I held my breath, thinking how, from now on, each year would be a small miracle.” - Richard A. Moran

Couture & Caviar: A Tale of Opulence and Sustainability

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

A TALE OF TWO VALLEYs

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

In The Accidental Vineyard, Richard A. Moran invites us into the enchanting world of wine country through his heartfelt memoir that chronicles his transformative journey from the corporate grind to the lush landscapes of Knights Valley, a place so unique that I, too, planted roots next door. This book resonates deeply with anyone who has ever daydreamed of leaving behind the chaos of city life for the tranquility of rural living, making it a compelling read for both aspiring winemakers and those simply seeking a deeper connection to the land.

FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS, I HAVE BEEN ON A TRANSFORMATIVE journey with The Happy Body program, a holistic approach to fitness that not only reshaped my body but also revitalized my spirit. My path to discovering this life-changing exercise regimen was not straightforward. After suffering a debilitating back injury from a car accident 25 years ago and battling with my (ideal) weight for years, I was desperate for a solution that would not only alleviate my pain but also help me regain control over my health.

Moran and his family embrace their new life, they discover the beauty of hands-on work, contrasting it sharply with the sterile and often soulless environment of corporate life filled with endless meetings and PowerPoint presentations.

AS

A

WINEGROWER AND

Moran’s narrative begins with a serendipitous family drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, leading them to a dilapidated 19th century Victorian house that captures their hearts. The spontaneous decision to purchase the house initiates a series of renovations and ignites a newfound passion for winemaking, setting the stage for the story that unfolds. As

The essence of wine country is beautifully captured in Moran’s writing, which portrays it not just as a picturesque backdrop but as a vibrant tapestry woven with tales of struggle and resilience. The trials of restoring their old Victorian home while simultaneously planting a vineyard illustrate the satisfaction derived from tangible creation—an experience many in today’s digital age yearn for. Moran effectively conveys the joy of nurturing the land, reflecting on how the labor invested in every vine becomes a part of their family’s story.

It was a friend who first introduced me to The Happy Body, passionately sharing her experience and the profound impact it had on her life. Skeptical yet intrigued, I decided to take the plunge. I drove 60 miles three times a week for eight weeks to Palo Alto, where I had the opportunity to learn from the master himself, Jerzy Gregorek, creator of The Happy Body program. That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life—one filled with strength, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.

WINEMAKER

HAUTE COUTURE AND CAVIAR MAY SEEM LIKE UNLIKELY companions, but they share striking similarities going beyond their association with luxury. Just as haute couture represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and artistry in the fashion world, caviar embodies the epitome of culinary refinement. Both are synonymous with elegance, exclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Few delicacies evoke the same level of opulence and fascination as caviar. From the shimmering pearls to the delicate burst of flavor, caviar has long been hailed as the epitome of culinary refinement and luxury. Among the esteemed purveyors of this exquisite delight, Haute Caviar Company stands out as a champion of ethical sourcing,

MYSELF IN KNIGHTS

One of the most poignant themes of The Accidental Vineyard is the profound impact the Moran family has on the lives of their visitors. Guests who spend time in the vineyard often leave with renewed perspectives or rekindled relationships, highlighting the transformative power of shared experiences in such a breathtaking

At its core, The Happy Body is more than just a workout; it is

comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and mental health. The philosophy promotes the idea that true fitness is achieved when one aligns one’s body and mind, fostering a sense of harmony that extends beyond the gym.

Jerzy Gregorek emphasizes the importance of functional movement: exercises that mimic everyday activities, allowing the body to perform optimally in daily life. This approach resonated with me, especially as someone who had endured chronic back pain. The exercises were designed not just to build muscle but also to enhance mobility and stability, ultimately leading to a stronger, more resilient body.

Valley, Sonoma County, I am always looking to support local wineries when dining out. Whether in Silicon Valley or Napa Valley, I do my best to select unique, exceptional wines to support my wine community.

my opinion, I have I can bring an extraordinary Kelly. At Protégé Kelly is always there don’t love expensive At Montage in his wines by telling be found first locally. and local clientele, James Beard Award robust and different opinions and flavor ‘house palate’ and approaches.” For most treasured wines the power of relationships. has potential to be more value in using our guests that can When talking wines have become overall consensus overdeliver, and when not want a Napa do not have enough which doesn’t pair and spirits buyer down to personal

finer things in life, are we now seeing caviar on so many not just for special occasions? “When enjoying caviar, you meant to be a special occasion,” says Suppes. Like couture, wearing the absolute best, and with caviar, it sets the tone Most recently on a lunch date with her son, Michael Suppes, The Village Pub, they dined on caviar and champagne. collectors’ thing, it’s a mindset of wanting to indulge in no matter one’s age.

To deliver the very best, Lisa Simon, a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for the finer things in life, founded the Haute Company which has become synonymous with excellence

As I embarked on my journey with The Happy Body, I was initially overwhelmed by the variety of movements and techniques. However, under Gregorek’s expert guidance, I learned to embrace the process. Each session was tailored to my individual needs, allowing me to progress at my own pace while ensuring that I was safe and supported.

setting. The author emphasizes that the warmth of hospitality, laughter, and the joy of wine can catalyze significant change, demonstrating how our environments influence our lives profoundly.

Moran’s lyrical descriptions evoke a sense of nostalgia and anticipation, particularly during the harvest season. He captures the beauty of the vines just before picking—an exhilarating time filled with hope and uncertainty. The metaphor of each grape as a small miracle serves as a reminder of the dedication and love poured into the land, reinforcing the idea that winemaking is not merely a business venture but an art form intricately tied to nature’s rhythms.

Throughout the narrative, Moran draws parallels between his own journey and those of early pioneers like Calvin Holmes, who ventured west during the Gold Rush. He illustrates how these settlers embraced risks and challenges, mirroring his own struggles in establishing a vineyard. The resilience of the land and its caretakers remains steadfast, even when faced with unpredictable challenges such as the devastating fires that have threatened wine country.

Filled with humor, heart, and insightful reflections, The Accidental Vineyard paints a vivid portrait of the joys and trials of winemaking and the deep connections formed along the way. Moran’s storytelling is both engaging and relatable, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys and aspirations.

As the vineyard flourishes, Moran grapples with the realities of running a small winery in a competitive market, learning about grape cultivation, branding, and the intricacies of winemaking. His experiences culminate in the successful release of their wines, which earn accolades from friends, family, and eventually the broader wine community. This journey is not just about producing wine; it is a testament to the power of following one’s passions and the unexpected paths that unfold along the way.

Richard A. Moran’s The Accidental Vineyard celebrates family, community, and the beauty of creating a life rooted in passion and purpose. It serves as a reminder to embrace the journey, cherish the small victories, and savor the moments that truly matter. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of winemaking and the richness of life experiences, encapsulating the essence of cultivating one’s dreams in the heart of wine country. Moran’s story is a testament to the transformative power of love, labor, and the land, making it an unforgettable addition to the literary landscape.

Now available: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/ The-Accidental-Vineyard/Richard-A-Moran/9781637747414

Excerpted from The Accidental Vineyard copyright © 2025 by Richard A. Moran Reprinted with permission from Matt Holt Books, an imprint of BenBella Books, Inc. All rights reserved.

Charles R. Johnson, Wealth Director, is responsible for developing investment and trust relationships with families and organizations. He works closely with the trust and tax planning group to help clients determine optimal asset allocation and transfer strategies. Before joining Fiduciary Trust, he worked for Rockefeller Capital Management, an independent financial services firm offering global family office, asset management, and strategic advisory services to ultra-high net worth families, institutions, and corporations. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Southern California. He works closely with the Addiction Education Society nonprofit.

Inheriting Wealth: What It Means to Be a Beneficiary

BY CHARLES R. JOHNSON, WEALTH DIRECTOR, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL AND KIM RESCORLA, DIRECTOR OF TRUST ADMINISTRATION, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL

INHERITING WEALTH MAY BE A CONFUSING AND COMPLICATED process. Following are some considerations to assist you with the process and aid you in managing the legacy you have received.

INHERITING WEALTH, EITHER OUTRIGHT OR IN TRUST

Inherited wealth may include financial assets like cash, stocks, bonds, or an ownership stake in a business. It may also include more unique assets like artwork, precious metals, real estate, or intellectual property, such as a trademark, patent, or copyrighted material. These assets may be inherited outright, allowing you to take ownership and control relatively quickly, or placed in a trust with the assets managed by a trustee and distributed over time, according to the terms specified in the trust document.

YOU ARE A BENEFICIARY OF A TRUST. NOW WHAT?

As a beneficiary of a trust, you have the right to receive a copy of the trust document, which details the terms governing administration of the assets, including under what circumstances the trustee can distribute assets to the beneficiaries. Depending on the terms of the trust and your status as a current or remainder beneficiary of the trust, you may have the right to receive additional information on the management of the trust assets. The trustee of the trust has an obligation to keep the beneficiaries informed and to respond to a beneficiary’s request for information.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE DISTRIBUTIONS?

Trusts are complex legal entities that can be constructed in various ways that influence the frequency and size of your distributions. The grantor, or creator of the trust, designed the terms of the trust to accomplish various planning goals, such as ensuring access to financial resources for future generations.

We often see trusts structured to give the trustee the discretion to distribute the income or principal of a trust if the request from a beneficiary meets a certain standard. In this case, it is within the discretion of the trustee to determine if your request meets the terms of the trust document.

In other trusts, the terms of the trust direct that assets are distributed upon the happening of certain events, such an age attainment.

After meeting with your trustee, you should have a clear understanding of the circumstances under which you may receive income or principal, which are usually treated differently.

HOW LONG WILL THE TRUST CONTINUE?

The duration of a trust depends on the terms of the trust and the needs of the beneficiaries. The terms of the trust may provide for the trust to terminate on the occurrence of an event, such as the beneficiary reaching a certain age, the expiration of a specific amount of time, or

the death of a beneficiary. A trust may also contain provisions allowing the trustee to terminate the trust, at the discretion of the trustee, if the assets held in trust are small enough that the administration has become uneconomical. Trusts may also terminate based on the dissipation of the assets through distributions. Terminating a trust may be a complicated and lengthy process or a straightforward and expedient process, depending on the reason for the termination, how long the trust was in existence, and the number of beneficiaries.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGING THE TRUST’S ASSETS?

The trustee has a duty to manage the day-to-day administration of the trust, maintain records, and invest the trust’s assets in a prudent manner, taking into account several factors such as the initial funding of the trust and the anticipated needs of the beneficiaries. As a beneficiary, it’s important to have ongoing conversations with the trustee about the investment objective of the trust, especially when there is a shift in the trusteeship or beneficiaries. If the trust allows flexibility in distributions, communicating with your trustee about how much money you will be requesting from the trust and when it may be distributed gives your portfolio managers time to make the best decisions about what to sell and when to sell it if the trust needs to raise cash.

ARE DISTRIBUTIONS FROM THE TRUST SUBJECT TO PERSONAL INCOME TAXES?

In general, beneficiaries are not required to pay income taxes on distributions that are considered part of the trust’s principal, but they are responsible for paying taxes on distributions to the extent they represent the ordinary income of the trust. A beneficiary who has received distributions from the trust may expect to receive a tax form known as a K-1, which reflects information that should be included in the beneficiary’s income tax calculations.

WHAT

IF

THERE ARE MULTIPLE BENEFICIARIES OF A TRUST?

It is not uncommon for a trust to have more than one beneficiary. If beneficiaries span multiple generations, there may also be conflicting interests—current beneficiaries may want maximum income, while future (remainder) beneficiaries want the trust to appreciate over the long term. The trustee works closely with the portfolio manager to design an investment strategy that can provide a balance between the interests of the current beneficiaries and remainder beneficiaries. The trustee may also be able to take advantage of trust administration powers provided under state law that allow for adjustments to be made between income and principal to provide greater flexibility in achieving an equitable outcome for both income and remainder beneficiaries.

DEVELOPING A PLAN FOR YOUR NEW FINANCIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Whether it’s a large estate or a personal item of sentimental value, you’ve been entrusted with someone’s legacy and possessions that often represent a lifetime of hard work, dedication, and planning.

In many cases, a trust is a significant financial resource that’s meant to support the beneficiary for a lifetime.

As you become part of someone else’s plan, it’s a good time to focus on your own planning. At Fiduciary Trust International, we can help you put your inheritance in the context of your own financial circumstances and develop an investment strategy and a plan to meet your personal goals.

Charles R. Johnson, Wealth Director, Fiduciary Trust International is responsible for developing investment and trust relationships with families and organizations. He works closely with the Trust and Tax planning group to help clients determine optimal asset allocation and transfer strategies.

Kim Rescorla, Director of Trust Administration, Fiduciary Trust International provides fiduciary oversight in the management and administration of a wide range of trusts and other fiduciary investment management accounts. With two decades of combined experience in private practice and corporate fiduciary services, Kim offers deep expertise in trust administration, estate planning, and fiduciary compliance.

This material should not be construed in any way as investment, tax, estate, accounting, legal or regulatory advice. Any description of tax consequences set forth above is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning.

Charles R. Johnson

Wealth Director | 628 286 8403 charles.r.johnson@ftci.com

One Franklin Parkway, Bldg 920, 1st Floor San Mateo, CA 94403 fiduciarytrust.com

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

46 CLIFF ROAD

5 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ± 5,099 SQ. FT | ±0.38 ACRES

$22,888,000

$29,500,000

Featured in Architectural Digest, this world-class residence showcases panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the skyline of San Francisco and Sausalito. This magnificent masterpiece in a dramatic setting on the most prestigious location is comprised of a ±8,131 sq .ft. home on a ±0.67 acre lot, featuring 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. This architectural work of art was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey, with spectacular outlooks from every corner of the expansive 4-level floor plan. The primarily vertical organization of this home takes advantage of its sloped site on the southern coast of Belvedere Island. The uppermost level contains a 3-car garage with glass doors, an elevator which descends to a courtyard, a detached one bedroom, one bath guesthouse and a spacious wine cellar. The remaining levels of the main house are situated between two large retaining walls, which follow the natural contours of the site and splay outwards towards the Bay. The house’s compact organization within the precinct formed by the retaining walls ensures privacy. An interior circular stair winds around an elevator and forms the cylindrical focal point of the house’s massing. A barrel-vaulted ceiling articulates the living and dining room at the entry level of the main house, and a large deck projects towards the Bay to extend the space into the landscape. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a study and a two-story entertainment room occupy the intermediate floors, while a media room, a beautiful wet bar, a full bath with steam shower and sauna on the lowest level open onto a spacious outdoor terrace with a pool, whose “infinity edge” of water establishes a poetic connection to the Bay. The interior floors are limestone and wide plank Bubinga wood and cabinets are lightly stained maple. The exterior is clad in gray stained cedar, with a curved standing seam zinc roof. All exterior windows, doors and decks are teak, all terraces are beige/gray flamed limestone pavers and the retaining walls are painted warm white stucco. This is one of the very rare large size newer contemporary homes on Belvedere Island on south and west facing waterfront.

A very rare, brand-new waterfront masterpiece combines luxury with breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, Sausalito, and Mt. Tam. Perched dramatically on the edge of Belvedere Island’s prestigious west side, 46 Cli Road is a true architectural triumph. The five-bedroom, 5,099-square-foot home is designed with the highest craftsmanship and structural integrity. This modern and spacious coastal sanctuary features corner glass walls and expansive, tall, wallto-wall Fleetwood glass doors that open onto sprawling terraces for indoor-outdoor living. This cli side retreat o ers unmatched views, timeless design, and serenity within a unique paradise for buyers seeking the extraordinary experience of the best waterfront living. With elegance, comfort & waterfront perfection, every room in this stunning home o ers Golden Gate views. Inside, you’ll find grand interiors with 10-foot to 14-foot ceilings, a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and wide plank, vertical grain white oak flooring. The deluxe primary suite with a spa-like bathroom features a freestanding soaking tub, a glass shower, a double vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. The dramatic gourmet kitchen has vertical grain white oak cabinets and a Vadara Blanco Venato quartz countertop. The expansive waterfront terraces feature an outdoor BBQ center, plumbing forthree firepits, a stainless steel spa, and a lounge area perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re relaxing by the shore, taking a peaceful walk along the coastline, or watching the waves roll in, the beachfront oasis provides the ultimate in tranquility and privacy. Other amenities include a private guest suite, Ipe wood deck, stainless steel cable railing, a desk/seating area to enjoy the amazing views, a large full bath, a laundry room, and a full kitchen. There is Warmboard radiant heating throughout. Norstone natural lava stone veneer was selected for its beauty, strength, and durability for exterior and interior wall cladding. There is solar power generation, an EV charger, an entry fountain made of natural stone, a large level lawn, a two-car garage, and three o -street parking spaces.

Featured in Architectural Digest, this world-class residence showcases panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the skyline of San Francisco and Sausalito. This magnificent masterpiece in a dramatic setting on the most prestigious location is comprised of a ±8,131 sq .ft. home on a ±0.67 acre lot, featuring 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. This architectural work of art was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey, with spectacular outlooks from every corner of the expansive 4-level floor plan. The primarily vertical organization of this home takes advantage of its sloped site on the southern coast of Belvedere Island. The uppermost level contains a 3-car garage with glass doors, an elevator which descends to a courtyard, a detached one bedroom, one bath guesthouse and a spacious wine cellar. The remaining levels of the main house are situated between two large retaining walls, which follow the natural contours of the site and splay outwards towards the Bay. The house’s compact organization within the precinct formed by the retaining walls ensures privacy. An interior circular stair winds around an elevator and forms the cylindrical focal point of the house’s massing. A barrel-vaulted ceiling articulates the living and dining room at the entry level of the main house, and a large deck projects towards the Bay to extend the space into the landscape. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, a study and a two-story entertainment room occupy the intermediate floors, while a media room, a beautiful wet bar, a full bath with steam shower and sauna on the lowest level open onto a spacious outdoor terrace with a pool, whose “infinity edge” of water establishes a poetic connection to the Bay. The interior floors are limestone and wide plank Bubinga wood and cabinets are lightly stained maple. The exterior is clad in gray stained cedar, with a curved standing seam zinc roof. All exterior windows, doors and decks are teak, all terraces are beige/gray flamed limestone pavers and the retaining walls are painted warm white stucco. This is one of the very rare large size newer contemporary homes on Belvedere Island on south and west facing waterfront.

O ered at $29,500,000 | Visit 46Cli Road.com for details, photos, and video.

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

5 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ± 5,099 SQ. FT | ±0.38 ACRES

$29,500,000

5 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1 HALF-BATHS | ± 5,099 SQ. FT | ±0.38 ACRES $29,500,000

A very rare, brand-new waterfront masterpiece combines luxury with breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, Sausalito, and Mt. Tam. Perched dramatically on the edge of Belvedere Island’s prestigious west side, 46 Cli Road is a true architectural triumph. The five-bedroom, 5,099-square-foot home is designed with the highest craftsmanship and structural integrity. This modern and spacious coastal sanctuary features corner glass walls and expansive, tall, wallto-wall Fleetwood glass doors that open onto sprawling terraces for indoor-outdoor living. This cli side retreat o ers unmatched views, timeless design, and serenity within a unique paradise for buyers seeking the extraordinary experience of the best waterfront living. With elegance, comfort & waterfront perfection, every room in this stunning home o ers Golden Gate views. Inside, you’ll find grand interiors with 10-foot to 14-foot ceilings, a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and wide plank, vertical grain white oak flooring. The deluxe primary suite with a spa-like bathroom features a freestanding soaking tub, a glass shower, a double vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. The dramatic gourmet kitchen has vertical grain white oak cabinets and a Vadara Blanco Venato quartz countertop. The expansive waterfront terraces feature an outdoor BBQ center, plumbing forthree firepits, a stainless steel spa, and a lounge area perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re relaxing by the shore, taking a peaceful walk along the coastline, or watching the waves roll in, the beachfront oasis provides the ultimate in tranquility and privacy. Other amenities include a private guest suite, Ipe wood deck, stainless steel cable railing, a desk/seating area to enjoy the amazing views, a large full bath, a laundry room, and a full kitchen. There is Warmboard radiant heating throughout. Norstone natural lava stone veneer was selected for its beauty, strength, and durability for exterior and interior wall cladding. There is solar power generation, an EV charger, an entry fountain made of natural stone, a large level lawn, a two-car garage, and three o -street parking spaces.

A very rare, brand-new waterfront masterpiece combines luxury with breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, Sausalito, and Mt. Tam. Perched dramatically on the edge of Belvedere Island’s prestigious west side, 46 Cli Road is a true architectural triumph. The five-bedroom, 5,099-square-foot home is designed with the highest craftsmanship and structural integrity. This modern and spacious coastal sanctuary features corner glass walls and expansive, tall, wallto-wall Fleetwood glass doors that open onto sprawling terraces for indoor-outdoor living. This cli side retreat o ers unmatched views, timeless design, and serenity within a unique paradise for buyers seeking the extraordinary experience of the best waterfront living. With elegance, comfort & waterfront perfection, every room in this stunning home o ers Golden Gate views. Inside, you’ll find grand interiors with 10-foot to 14-foot ceilings, a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and wide plank, vertical grain white oak flooring. The deluxe primary suite with a spa-like bathroom features a freestanding soaking tub, a glass shower, a double vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. The dramatic gourmet kitchen has vertical grain white oak cabinets and a Vadara Blanco Venato quartz countertop. The expansive waterfront terraces feature an outdoor BBQ center, plumbing forthree firepits, a stainless steel spa, and a lounge area perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re relaxing by the shore, taking a peaceful walk along the coastline, or watching the waves roll in, the beachfront oasis provides the ultimate in tranquility and privacy. Other amenities include a private guest suite, Ipe wood deck, stainless steel cable railing, a desk/seating area to enjoy the amazing views, a large full bath, a laundry room, and a full kitchen. There is Warmboard radiant heating throughout. Norstone natural lava stone veneer was selected for its beauty, strength, and durability for exterior and interior wall cladding. There is solar power generation, an EV charger, an entry fountain made of natural stone, a large level lawn, a two-car garage, and three o -street parking spaces.

O ered at $29,500,000 | Visit 46Cli Road.com for details, photos, and video.

O ered at $29,500,000 | Visit 46Cli Road.com for details, photos, and video.

San Francisco Opera Guild Cordially Invites You To

An Evening on the Stage

MariaHonoring Manetti Shrem

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

War Memorial Opera House

6 PM Cocktail Reception | 7 PM Dinner and Program

Co-chairs: Maria Castellucci and Maryam Muduroglu

Mark your calendar for an unforgettable evening on the stage of one of the world’s grandest opera houses!

Join us for cocktails, dinner, and special musical performances on stage as we honor Maria Manetti Shrem for her extraordinary support of San Francisco Opera Guild, San Francisco Opera, the arts, and music education in our community.

Tickets & Details

sfopera.com/Stage-Dinner

sfoguild@sfopera.com • (415) 565-3204