I just returned from NYC where we debuted the full collection of E.M. Reitz at an intimate trunk show. It was held at Prune, a dining icon still closed for regular business. Gabrielle Hamilton, the owner of the restaurant, made the space available for us (her book Blood, Bones and Butter is must read) and the golden glow and intimate dining room was the ideal setting.
Owing to a big day on the books, we eased into the city in a lovely, low-key way. Instead of going to a boozy dinner (as might be typical), we opted for a sauna and a cold plunge Russian & Turkish Baths, a truly unique destination that is quintessentially New York.
The place defies easy description. It was opened in the late 1800’s and is still in operation today on 10th Street in the East Village. The baths are tucked into a basement level space where you’re side by side with New Yorkers looking for a schvitz. There is a warren of rooms offering various sauna and steam options, one plunge pool, and the Russian Room, a dark and unimaginably hot room that is built from stone and as close to hell on hearth (heat wise) as you might find.
It isn’t a dirty place, but I wouldn’t necessarily describe it as pristine, either. It’s got grit, and not for the faint of heart!
We followed our schvitz with dinner at Souen, an old school, if-you-know-you-know organic and macrobiotic restaurant. We feasted on hot tea, Miso Soup and their lovely (and honestly, bland) Macrobiotic Plate, and a piece of organic salmon. I’m not sure Souen is a place I would send people (just like the baths), despite the fact that I love it. You’re not there for the flavor, you’re there for the nourishment.
After our spa and our dinner, we felt fantastic, even high. We slept like kings.
The evening got me thinking about all the opportunities for healthy living in the Big Apple. In my younger days I hit the ground running. As I crested the bridge and the city came into closer view, my mission was about a cold beer and a good meal. Followed by cocktails and snacks and more drinks. Late nights were inevitable, and paid for with late mornings.
Nowadays I am more focused on balance. Earlier nights are the norm, drunken debauchery the exception. I’ve loved finding my favorite places around the city where I can decompress, eat healthy, exercise, recharge, and relax.
Below you’ll find my list of favorites, including my ideal spa (it isn’t the Russian & Turkish Baths!) and my absolute favorite stop for a shot of wheatgrass and a little juice to reset the system.
May I present, wellness in New York City:
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