Upper Westchester, NY July 2025

DESIGN + PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Wander, Discover, and Explore Local

Dear Readers,

July is the month of movement—when long days and warm nights invite us to venture out, see new sights, and rediscover what we love about summer. In this month’s Explore Issue, we’re embracing both global adventures and neighborhood gems.

We’re taking you to two unforgettable destinations: a dreamy Parisian girls’ getaway at the iconic Hôtel Plaza Athénée, and a coastal escape to Cannes where the chic vibes and Mediterranean magic make for the perfect Hamptons-meets-Riviera weekend. These stories are full of sunshine, style, and memory-making inspiration.

Christina Weiss invites us to explore the very best of Westchester—from hidden hiking trails to stylish shops and local dining spots you’ll want to return to again and again.

Whether you’re passport-ready or planning a summer of hometown discoveries, we hope this issue gives you permission to slow down, explore more, and savor it all.

Happy adventuring,

LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER

@UPPERWESTCHESTER.CITYLIFESTYLE

Our publication serves the communities of Armonk, Bedford, Bedford Hills, Chappaqua, Katonah, Mount Kisco, Pound Ridge and Valhalla.

July 2025

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Dana Cifone | dana.cifone@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Adam Vohra | adam.vohra@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristin Burnell, Alyssa Lavy, Christina Weiss

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Yelenia Cuellar, Brook Road Photography, Fairfield County LOOK

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

/franchise.

RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL

Restoration, Cleaning & Reconstruction

+ Mold Damage

As industry leaders in Restoration, Reconstruction and Cleaning– our vision is to continue providing strategic Consumer & Business Solutions while upholding our commitment to exemplary customer service and white glove workmanship. We work alongside our insurance partners as well as in the private sector to handle claims and home improvement projects. With our exclusive use of cutting-edge equipment and technology, our fully certified staff is capable of handling projects of any magnitude or complexity. (914) 787-9559 office@rainbowwestchester.com www.RBWWestchester.com

city scene

1-7:More than 500 people filled the theater at Purchase College for “Musicians United for ALS: A Concert for Wayne,” a heartfelt tribute to legendary music producer Wayne Warnecke. With unforgettable performances by artists like Patty Smyth, Rob Thomas, Paul Shaffer, and The Bacon Brothers, the evening was a moving celebration of love, music, and Wayne’s remarkable strength and spirit in the face of ALS.

business monthly

Antique Garage Opens in Rye

Antique Garage, the beloved Mediterranean restaurant by Chef Utku Cinel and Evrim Cinel, has officially opened its newest location in Rye, NY. Known for its jazz-filled ambiance, antique décor, and authentic Aegean flavors, the restaurant brings its signature charm from SoHo and Tribeca to Westchester. Guests can now enjoy fresh seafood, organic olive oil from the Cinels’ Turkish groves, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in a picturesque waterfront setting. 100 Purchase Street Rye, New York. 10580 https://antiquegaragerye.com

Weekapaug Inn Welcomes Gerardo Viejo as New Executive Chef

Weekapaug Inn announced the appointment of Gerardo Viejo as its new Executive Chef. A culinary leader with more than 15 years of experience at some of the world's most prestigious hotels and resorts, including Four Seasons properties across Boston, Vail, Athens, and Oahu, Chef Viejo brings a fresh perspective rooted in creativity, leadership, and a passion for coastal cuisine. https://weekapauginn.com

MEET VILLA GURU: LAURA BLAIR

Villa Guru, Laura Blair, founded In Villas Veritas in 1997, to help people fulfill their vacation dreams but with a unique asset to her brand...Villas. As a high level villa specialist, her team will help you find your next travel destination and the best places for you to stay during your vacation.

“A high level villa specialist is absolutely necessary for those wishing to insure they are getting a vetted property with no surprises such as construction nearby or an inadequate staff,” said Blair. “All the photographs and details in the world cannot guarantee a wonderful stay without someone who has actually had boots on the ground.”

Villas are mostly privately owned and include exclusive, high quality services that are incomparable to other hotels or resorts. “We are the brand our clients rely on to know that wherever we send them will measure up to their standards,” explained Blair.

In Villas Veritas provides full trip planning services that will provide a memorable and stress free holiday for clients. The team also curates many special and private experiences not available to everyone.

“As a small agency, we do not hand off clients to one of many agents who may or may not be experts in all of the properties and regions they book at large villa companies,” explained Blair. “We are an ‘under the radar’

commodity and we only take on so many clients and bookings a year so that we can give them 100 percent of our attention.”

As a prestigious, detail oriented company, In Villa Veritas is the brand that high end travel agents will also seek out to help them find the perfect private Villa stay for their own clients. Blair offers a unique skill set like no other, familiar with different properties and regions across the country that can plan an entire trip itinerary for clients.

“We travel every year to many regions to see new properties as well as to revisit those we have not seen for a while. While there, we also meet with local providers and try various specialty tours, charters, wineries and restaurants,” said Blair.

A Parisian ESCAPE

There’s something undeniably magical about Paris. The way the light hits the Seine, the smell of fresh baguettes wafting through the air, the cobblestone streets leading to spontaneous adventure. But what made our recent trip truly unforgettable was checking into the iconic Hotel Plaza Athénée for the ultimate girls’ getaway. Tucked along the glamorous Avenue Montaigne— the epicenter of Parisian fashion and elegance—Hotel Plaza Athénée is more than just a five-star destination. It’s a place that feels like stepping into a dream. With its signature red awnings, grand wrought-iron balconies, and picture-perfect courtyard adorned in twinkling lights, this palace hotel sets the tone for a luxurious, laughter-filled weekend from the moment you arrive. The rooms? Pure magic. Ours boasted one of the most breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower imaginable. Mornings began with French-press coffee in plush robes, watching the sunrise over Paris’ most iconic monument from the comfort of our suite. It’s the kind of view that reminds you why Paris has captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. From pampering to playtime, the hotel provided the perfect home base for a weekend filled with friendship, food, and fun. Every detail from the sparkling chandeliers to the attentive concierge staff felt thoughtful and indulgent without ever being pretentious.

Chic Views, Fine Dining, and the Ultimate Girls’ Weekend at Hotel Plaza Athénée

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA

Even the lobby seemed to buzz with a blend of energy and elegance, where guests sipped champagne and swapped stories about their day’s discoveries. But let’s talk about the food. One evening, we decided to dine at the hotel’s renowned restaurant, Le Relais Plaza a gilded oasis of culinary excellence. I’ll admit— at first glance, the menu read like a beautifully written poem in a foreign language. But thanks to our kind server’s guidance (and a few adventurous instincts), we were served a meal that blew us away. Each course was a journey—refined, flavorful, and plated like a work of art. It was the kind of meal where laughter flows freely, and each bite becomes a shared experience. Outside the hotel, we explored the boutiques of Avenue Montaigne, wandered along the Seine, and stopped for impromptu café breaks where croissants and espresso became our midday rituals. We took photos under the Eiffel Tower, toasted with rosé at sunset, and stayed out late dancing in the glow of the city lights. Back at Hotel Plaza Athénée, turndown service awaited us with chocolate truffles and fresh linens—a reminder that Paris doesn’t stop delighting you, even after midnight. The hotel’s Dior Spa is also a must-visit, perfect for easing tired feet after miles of city strolling. Indulgent facials and deep-tissue massages gave us the recharge we needed to keep the weekend magic going. What makes a girls’ weekend like this so special isn’t just the destination—it’s the shared stories, the inside jokes, the unfiltered joy of exploring with your best friends. But having a home base like Hotel Plaza Athénée elevates the entire experience to something extraordinary. In Paris, every moment feels like a scene from a film. But at Hotel Plaza Athénée, it feels like you’re starring in it. If you’re dreaming of a Parisian escape with your girls—full of laughter, luxury, and late-night chats, let this is your sign. Pack your heels, your camera, and your favorite red lipstick. Hotel Plaza Athénée is waiting to help you make memories that feel like magic and moments that will last a lifetime.

Pro Tip:

Pack your most fabulous flats—you’ll be walking everywhere. From Eiffel Tower views at Hôtel Plaza Athénée to croissants and couture on every corner, Paris is the perfect blend of elegance, indulgence, and unforgettable girls’ getaway moments.

COASTAL CHIC in Cannes

A GLAMOROUS WEEKEND ESCAPE AT HÔTEL MARTINEZ

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY YELENIA CUELLAR

When you think of Cannes, you might picture red carpets, palm trees, and the glittering Mediterranean Sea.. and you wouldn’t be wrong. But for us, it was something more: a breathtaking escape from Paris and the perfect weekend destination that felt like the French version of the Hamptons, with a distinctly elevated, European flair.

After a few days soaking up the city magic in Paris, we hopped on a scenic train ride down the coast and landed in the sun-drenched paradise of Cannes. Just a stone’s throw from the glitz of the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, this glamorous seaside town delivered the perfect mix of relaxation, luxury, and Riviera chic.

Our home base for the weekend was the legendary Hôtel Martinez, a five-star retreat with Art Deco charm and front-row views of the dazzling Bay of Cannes. From the moment we arrived, the experience was as welcoming as it was opulent. The lobby felt like a movie set with marble floors, soft lighting, and just enough glam to make you feel like a star without trying too hard. There were more Lamborghini’s in valet than you would than you expect to see at Greenwich Polo on a Sunday afternoon.

The rooms? Sun-soaked, and stylish, with balconies overlooking the water that took our breath away. Waking up to the sound of the sea and the view of the sunrise sparkling over the Mediterranean was the kind of moment that makes a trip unforgettable. The interiors are sophisticated but not fussy—soft textures, calming tones, and sleek design elements that felt effortlessly elegant.

Everything about the Hôtel Martinez experience felt thoughtfully elevated. The private beach club made for the ultimate daytime hang, where we sipped rosé, lounged in striped cabanas, and dipped our toes in the turquoise water. The hotel’s culinary scene was equally memorable breakfast on the terrace was a dream, and a dinner at La Palme d’Or, their Michelinstarred restaurant, was one of the highlights of our trip. Pro tip — come back late night for a Miami style dance party!

Cannes itself has a vibrant energy that hits differently than Paris. It’s slower, more relaxed, but equally stylish. The palm-lined Croisette is the main boulevard that hugs the shoreline, dotted with designer boutiques, buzzing beach bars, and elegant cafes. We walked, shopped, and people-watched to our hearts’ content. Think Miami meets South Beach—but with more rosé, linen, and less noise.

One of the best parts of visiting Cannes is how it seamlessly blends glamour with authenticity. Yes, the film festival brings in celebrities and cinema lovers from around the world, but there’s also a strong local culture that shines through in its markets, seafood restaurants, and warm hospitality. The locals were kind and helpful, happy to share recommendations and help us navigate our way.

We caught glimpses of the film festival buzz even in the off-season—billboards of past winners, casual run-ins with industry types, and whispers of upcoming premieres. There’s a sense of artistic excitement in the air, and you feel like you’re part of something a little bigger than just a weekend trip.

Cannes also has its share of hidden gems—quiet alleyways that open up into charming squares, tucked-away wine shops, and art galleries where you could easily lose an hour (or three). We even ventured out on a boat for a short cruise along the coast, soaking in views of the cliffs and neighboring towns. It was one of those spontaneous decisions that ended up being one of our favorite memories.

While Paris offered elegance and energy, Cannes gave us sunshine, salt air, and the kind of luxury that doesn’t need to announce itself. It was the perfect complement to our French adventure—different in tone, but every bit as magical.

Our girls’ weekend in Cannes reminded us how transformative a change of scenery can be. Just a train ride away, it felt like we

had stepped into another world. Whether you’re beach lounging with a book, splurging on a new handbag, or simply soaking in the views with your best friends, Cannes delivers a taste of the high life that’s both accessible and unforgettable.

So if you’re planning a French escape, consider a split itinerary: start with the city lights in Paris, then trade in your heels for sandals and catch the train to Cannes. With its golden beaches, sparkling coastline, and Old Hollywood glamour, Hôtel Martinez and the charm of Cannes offer the perfect second chapter to any French getaway. You’ll return home glowing—from the sunshine, the laughter, and the unmistakable magic of the Riviera.

TRAVEL LOGISTICS: GETTING TO CANNES

Train from Paris to Cannes: Hop aboard the high-speed TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon to Cannes. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and offers picturesque views of the French countryside and coastline.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall (May–September) for sunny skies and beach-perfect weather. Cannes Film Festival takes place in May—expect glitz and crowds.

Airport Access: Cannes is a 30-minute drive from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which is well-connected to major international cities.

Pro Tip: Book your train tickets early via SNCF Connect or Rail Europe, and choose a window seat to soak in the coastal scenery as you arrive in style.

Venture Out

10 Ways to Savor Summer Across the Northern Westchester

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA WEISS

2. Bask in the Sounds of Summer at Caramoor in Katonah

Caramoor’s open-air grounds offer a magical setting for unforgettable performances and family-friendly experiences.

JULY 4 – POPS, PATRIOTS & FIREWORKS

Celebrate Independence Day with a stirring concert by the Westchester Symphonic Winds and a dazzling fireworks finale.

JULY 6 – AFTERNOON TEA IN THE MUSIC ROOM

Sip Harney & Sons tea in one of Caramoor’s most beautiful historic spaces, served with tea sandwiches, scones, and desserts.

JULY 26 – CARAMOOR JAZZ FESTIVAL

Co-presented with Jazz at Lincoln Center, this all-day festival features live music throughout the gardens, culminating in a performance by Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra.

1. Feed Your Senses at Blue Hill at Stone Barns

JULY 26 & AUGUST 23 – MARKET DAYS

Wander through the fields and learn about regenerative agriculture while sampling peak-season produce and pantry goods at Market Days on the Stone Barns campus.

AUGUST 3 – FRESH & DRIED FLOWER WORKSHOP

Join the Crops Team to handcraft your own bouquet with freshly harvested and dried blooms.

JULY 5 & 6 – FIREFLY WALK & DINNER AT COMMUNITY TABLE

Book an early dinner at the Community Table, then enjoy a magical nighttime walk led by Ecological Monitoring Director Elijah Goodwin. Watch fireflies light up the fields and learn how nocturnal creatures interact with this thriving, biodiverse landscape.

Summer is in full swing in Upper Westchester, and there’s no better time to explore the best our beautiful county has to offer. From twilight firefly walks and jazz in the garden to bustling farmers markets and sizzling food truck nights, consider this your invitation to step outside and savor the season with purpose and pleasure.

Whether you’re a nature lover, music buff, or a family on the hunt for easy weekend outings, here are 10 must-do experiences to help you live your best summer life:

3. Score a Summer Steal at Katonah Sidewalk Sale Days

JULY 18–19

Stroll downtown Katonah and shop locally at this beloved annual event. Grab an iced latte, pop in and out of charming boutiques, and enjoy exclusive discounts from your favorite neighborhood spots.

4. Rock Out at the Free Robison Summer Concert Series

KENSICO DAM PLAZA, FRIDAYS IN JULY

Pack a picnic and dance under the stars at this family-friendly concert series. This year’s lineup includes crowd-pleasers like:

• July 11 – The Great American Soul Book

• July 18 – The Jersey Tenors (Frankie Valli to Sinatra)

• July 25 – Love Story: A Taylor Swift Tribute

5. Savor Food Truck Fridays in Pound Ridge

JULY 18, AUGUST 22 & SEPTEMBER 12: 5–9PM

This monthly tradition brings gourmet eats, live music, and a laid-back community vibe to Scotts Corners. Come hungry!

6. Stroll & Shop at Northern Westchester’s Best Farmers Markets

There’s no better time to enjoy locally grown produce, fresh flowers, handmade goods, and neighborly vibes.

• Sundays – Honeybee Grove Flower Farm (June–October)

• Sundays – Muscoot Farm Market (May–November)

• Saturdays – Gossett’s Farmers Market (Year-round)

• Saturdays – John Jay Homestead Farm Market in Katonah

7.

Settle into a lawn chair with a cold drink and soak up the sounds of live local music in the charming setting of Wampus Brook Park. You’ll also find performances popping up in the town square throughout the summer. Visit the town website for the full Music in the Square schedule.

8. Go Wild at Muscoot Farm

This working farm and nature preserve in Katonah is a summer staple. Beyond its weekly market, kids and adults love saying hi to their resident barnyard animals, exploring the walking trails, and joining in on seasonal events hosted throughout the summer.

10. Celebrate Community at Destination 39.3’s Bedford Music Festival at Caramoor

SEPTEMBER 13, 2:00PM

Close out the season with live music, delicious food, and community spirit at this all-ages festival, featuring  Big Head Todd and the Monsters Hosted on the Caramoor grounds for the first time ever, this festive day promises an unforgettable sendoff to summer.

Westchester’s warmest days are made for local adventures...so grab your sunhat, round up your crew, and start exploring!

9. Explore Local Nature on a Guided Walk with Lewisboro Land Trust

Get to know the natural beauty of Northern Westchester through free, family-friendly hikes hosted by the Lewisboro Land Trust. From scenic meadow strolls to toddler-friendly adventures, these guided outings are a fun and educational way to connect with nature, learn about native wildlife, and meet neighbors who share a love for the outdoors. Visit their website for the full schedule of summer walks and special events.

Helping Children Thrive & Reach Their Goals,

SUMMER SEAFOOD GAZPACHO

A Refreshing, Chilled, Summer Forward Soup That Packs In Protein And Fiber!

This Summer Seafood Gazpacho screams summer and is the perfect, refreshing meal, snack or appetizer to beat the heat - whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a quiet meal with family. It’s packed with some of the season’s most flavorful produce and provides satisfying fiber and protein to help keep you feeling full,

while still being light enough to enjoy on the hottest of summer days. Plus, there is no need to turn on the oven or the stove, keeping your kitchen (and you) cool as a cucumber! You can enjoy this chilled soup as is, or add toppings like chopped jalapeños, cilantro, or creme fraiche and scoop it up with tortilla chips!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN

SUMMER SEAFOOD GAZPACHO

SERVES

Yields ~8 C gazpacho

Ingredients:

• 8 large tomatoes

• 1 large cucumber

• 2 cloves garlic

• 1 small sweet onion

• 1 jalapeño pepper

• ½ tsp hot sauce

• 3 Tbsp lemon juice

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 ¼ tsp kosher salt

• ½ tsp ground black pepper

• 2 Tbsp parsley (fresh or dried)

• 8 oz lump crab meat

• 8 oz cooked shrimp, chilled (about 8-12 large shrimp)

*Optional suggested toppings include: cilantro, tortilla chips, chopped jalapeños, creme fraiche, additional parsley

Directions:

1. Cut tomatoes into large chunks, approximately 6-8 pieces each. Set aside.

2. Slice cucumber into thick slices. Set aside.

3. Mince garlic. Set aside.

4. Chop onion into medium sized pieces. Set aside.

5. Slice jalapeño pepper in half, lengthwise. Remove seeds if you prefer less heat. Chop jalapeño pepper and set aside.

6. Add tomatoes to large food processor. You may need to add about half of the tomatoes, pulse for a few seconds and then add the remaining tomatoes depending on the size of your food processor. Pulse tomatoes until chunky and slightly pureed. You will continue to puree the tomatoes once the additional ingredients are added, so do not pulse until completely smooth.

7. Add remaining vegetables (cucumber, garlic, onion, jalapeño pepper) to food processor with the tomatoes. Add hot sauce, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar,

salt, pepper and parsley. Replace the lid and pulse to desired consistency – the gazpacho should be pureed, but still somewhat chunky and not completely smooth.

8. Store in an airtight container and chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving. If not serving right away, this gazpacho can be made in advance and stored in the fridge overnight or for a few days until ready to serve. If making this gazpacho in advance, purchase fresh seafood or thaw frozen within 1 day of serving to keep seafood fresh and store seafood separately, only adding when ready to serve. When ready to serve, chop the shrimp and add approximately 1-2 oz chopped shrimp and ~1 oz crab meat to each bowl. You can add optional toppings, such as chopped cilantro, chopped jalapeños, tortilla chips, creme fraiche and an additional sprinkle of parsley, if preferred. Enjoy!

Note: This gazpacho can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up for 4 days, without the seafood. Store seafood separately and add when ready to consume.

Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN, CPT is a registered dietitian, personal trainer and mom of 2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from The George Washington University and her Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has been an ACSM certified personal trainer for over a decade. Alyssa is the owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, a wellness brand offering nutrition communications, program development and consulting services for individuals and corporations.

Website: alyssalavy.com

Instagram: @alyssalavyrd