Jas Madhur: We All Have to Eat

Jas Madhur, pictured, sees sharing a meal as a way to remove religious and cultural barriers
Photo: Mike Zenari

Jas Madhur is a Non-Resident member of the Union Club, having joined in 2005.

Eating with others has always been an important feature of Jas Madhur’s life, from the Sikh temples of his childhood, to the meals he enjoyed in the many countries he has lived.

Now the British-Canadian national is importing the concept of Sikh community kitchens, or “Langars”, to Luxembourg by coordinating free meals to encourage “sharing, participation and togetherness”.

“Anyone who wants to come together and sit with us and eat in peace and share ideas, we will do it,” he explains. Madhur, who moved to Luxembourg in 2011 and works as an external consultant, has been a lifelong fan of cooking. He says: “It’s very much a part of my cultures to invite people in. The first thing you say is ‘Sit down. What would you like to eat?’”

Madhur has a good selection of spices and enjoys cooking for friends who, he jokes, like to tell him how he can improve. But his culinary skills were turned to a different purpose when he hosted his first Langar in August 2019 for volunteers at the Aërdscheff, a sustainable construction project organised by Cell in Redange-sur-Attert.

“It was for volunteers who, in my mind, were doing a very noble thing by volunteering their time to work in the circular economy,” he says. “We were invited to celebrate their final dinner. They had all the facilities and were more than willing to help cook the stuff.” At this inaugural Langar, Madhur, whose family originates from India, cooked dishes using lentils, rice and vegetables with blended spices. But he says a Langar meal can consist of anything. The essential ingredients are the selfless act of contributing, sharing tasks and eating together.

The Langar practice is thought to have been started by Guru Nanak, who was born in 1469 in Talwandi near Lahore. 
He reportedly introduced the concept  to encourage equality among all people regardless of religion, cast, creed, age, gender or social status. The Sikh diaspora has since helped to spread the tradition around the world. “The difference between what I’m trying to do versus my father was that his generation was interested in collecting money, buying land and building temples,” Madhur says. “My push is to make it more open and go out.”

Madhur has a rich experience of expat life–he grew up in Kenya and has lived in the UK, Canada, US, France and Middle East. And he sees multicultural Luxembourg as an ideal place to establish a secular version of the Langar tradition. “As an immigrant, one becomes very conscious of the fact that one does not look, sound or even smell like the locals. As such, there is a tendency to shrink back into one’s enclaves and comfort zones and cultivate mistrust,” he says. 
“I think that rather than creating religious fortresses, the time has come to say that we are here as your neighbours and want to share an important part of what we value, wherever we go in the world.”

To be able to prepare a Langar, Madhur needs a location with cooking facilities and people willing to pitch in. He plans to coordinate four Langars per year, for groups of up to 50 people and he hopes to encourage others to embrace the concept. “I’m now trying to encourage friends of every walk of life to take the idea of a Langar and do it for their friends,” he says, adding: “We all have to eat. It’s nice to share your food.”

The 17 Best Resorts in the World, According to Travelers

If you’re looking for the best resorts in the world, go to Africa.

Condé Nast Traveler recently released the results of its 32nd annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey, which chronicled travelers’ experiences, including unforgettable resorts all over the world. 

In the survey, 600,000 voters provided their thoughts on nearly 10,000 hotels, resorts, and global experiences. The resorts that ultimately made the final cut all share an air of luxury, but they span different price points and destinations.

Here are the top 17 resorts in the world. Safari-inspired travel seemed to be popular this year, with seven out of 17 resorts being African bush resorts. A couple of private islands in the Maldives made the cut, as did a handful of Irish castles. Only one US resort topped the list.

17. Ol Jogi Home

Ol Jogi Home kenya bush resort

Location: Nanyuki Town, Kenya

Starting rate per night: Only available upon request

A 45-minute flight from Nairobi and nestled within 58,000 acres of private Kenyan bush, Ol Jogi Home provides a luxurious, exclusive safari experience with all the usual resort trappings: a gym, tennis courts, yoga studio, and spa. The resort accommodates 14 guests at a time.

16. Esperanza, an Auberge Resort

Esperanza auberge resort

Location: Los Cabos, Mexico

Starting rate per night: $581

Located on the Baja Peninsula, Esperanza has 57 beachfront suites and villas. It prides itself on offering a variety of experiences, including a ceviche-making class, tequila tastings, whale watching or clam diving excursions, and ATV rides in the desert.

15. Oliver’s Camp

Olivers Camp Tanzania

Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

Starting rate per night: $409 per person

This safari-oriented resort is in a remote part of a protected park in Tanzania. It is small and intimate; the resort only has 10 tents, including one honeymoon suite. It runs on solar power and has previously been celebrated for its sustainability initiatives. Its most popular activities include night drives into the bush and a walking safari.

14. Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Dorado beach puerto rico ritz carlton

Location: Dorado, Puerto Rico

Starting rate per night: $862

Opened by a Rockefeller in the 1950s, Dorado Beach is a luxury community complete with two 18-hole golf courses and two miles of private beach access. 

13. Velaa Private Island

Velaa Island

Location: Noonu Atoll, Maldives

Starting rate per night$2,250

A private island with the largest wine and Champagne collection in the Maldives, Velaa aims to be a resort “beyond luxury.” Each of the 45 private villas and residences were built with local materials and the entire resort was constructed in the shape of a turtle. 

12. Angsana Lang Co

Angsana Lang Co

Location: Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam

Starting rate per night: $140

Angsana Lang Co is a 223-room resort in central Vietnam with proximity to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It also has an award-winning spa and a swimming pool that spans the property.

11. Elewana Elsa’s Kopje

Elewana Elsa Kopje Kenya

Location: Meru National Park, Kenya

Starting rate per night: Only available upon request

Situated in a protected park in Kenya, Elewana Elsa’s Kopje is close to a rhino sanctuary and boasts regular sightings of elephant herds, hippos, and lions. The tiny resort opened in 1999 and has 11 private cottages, each of which has a deck.

10. andBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

andBeyond nxabega botswana luxury safari

Location: Okavango Delta, Botswana

Starting rate per night: $835 per person

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is a Botswana safari resort on 61,000 acres of exclusive land. There are nine tents, each with a veranda and an al fresco shower. 

9. Naladhu Private Island

naladhu_private_island_ocean_pool_house_1920x600

Location: South Male Atoll, Maldives

Starting rate per night: $948

Twenty houses, each with a private pool, make up the private island of Naladhu. With “blissful seclusion” at the center of its mission statement, the island has a 24-hour butler service, private dining, and in-residence spa experiences.

8. Deplar Farm

deplar farm iceland

Location: Ólafsfjörður, Iceland

Starting rate per night: $2,612

Deplar Farm is a lodge on a converted sheep farm that features just 13 guest suites and a state-of-the-art spa. Typical activities in the area include heli-skiing and salmon fishing.

7. Dromoland Castle Hotel & Country Estate

dromoland

Location: Co. Clare, Ireland

Starting rate per night: $275

Dromoland Castle, the ancestral home of the prominent O’Brien family dating back to the 16th century, became a resort in the 1960s. Popular activities include falconry, horseback riding, and archery. There is also a full-service spa and an award-winning golf course.

6. Richard’s River Camp

richards camp masai mara kenya

Location: Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Starting rate per night: Only available upon request

Established in 2006 as a getaway for a young conservationist couple, Richard’s River Camp is a seven-tent resort that accommodates 16 people at a time. The intimate resort was entirely furnished and decorated by the couple with fabrics and pieces collected through their own travels. The camp offers driven safaris, bush walks, and even hot air balloon flights.

5. Adare Manor

golf at adare manor

Location: Limerick, Ireland

Starting rate per night: $384

A two-hour drive from Dublin, the Adare Manor is located on 840 acres of private green. There is an award-winning golf course and a Michelin star restaurant on site, as well.

4. InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

infinity pool intercontinental vietnam

Location: Da Nang, Vietnam

Starting rate per night: $389

The InterContinental’s Danang Sun Peninsula Resort is a beachfront property nestled in a nature reserve and close to UNESCO World Heritage sites. The resort has amenities like half a mile of private beach and a wide array of spa treatments, from holistic therapies to pedicures.

3. Chindeni Bushcamp

Chindeni Bushcamp

 Location: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Starting rate per night: Only available upon request

Overlooking a hippo lagoon, Chindeni is a bushcamp retreat. It consists of four canvas lodges that can accommodate eight guests. The resort runs on solar power and is only open from May to December. 

2. L’Horizon Resort & Spa

l'horizon

Location: Palm Springs, California

Starting rate per night: $410

L’Horizon is made up of 25 bungalows that were all designed to feel like private residences, with different finishes and furnishings. The property was built in 1952 as a getaway for Hollywood producer Jack Wrather. There, he hosted guests like Marilyn Monroe and Ronald Reagan. It was redesigned as a luxury resort, complete with al fresco dining and an expansive spa, in 2015. It is the only US resort to make the top of Conde’s list.

1. Sirikoi Lodge

Sirikoi lodge

Location: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya

Starting rate: Only available upon request

Situated on 68,000 acres of wilderness in Northern Kenya, Sirikoi Lodge was built by a conservationist couple. It can accommodate 18 guests and its intimate setup includes one main lodge, a cottage, and four elevated tents, all with private outdoor decks. A staff of 68 people facilitates all lodge activities, including bush walks, game drives, helicopter excursions, and private dining. 

11 Things You Should Know Before Drinking A Pumpkin Spice Latte

Forget changing leaves, chilly temperatures or your frattiest guy friend putting his white jeans in hibernation—these days, nothing ushers in fall quite like the Pumpkin Spice Latte’s return to cafe menus nationwide. The beloved drink’s at the forefront of the still-going-strong, pumpkin-flavored everything trend (which now stretches from cereal to salad).

Before you take your first sip of the season, here’s what you need to know.

1. IT’S ABOUT AS CARB-LOADED AS EATING A BAGEL.

Thomas’ everything bagel clocks in at 53 grams of carbs per serving, which is about as many carbs as you’d find in a large, whole milk, no-whip pumpkin latte at most major chains. (In fact, a Pumpkin Ginger Latte from Caribou Coffee has more than twice as many carbs, clocking in at 127 grams and 710 calories, according to FOX News.)

2. IF YOU’RE ON A LOW-SUGAR DIET, BACK AWAY FROM THE LATTE. NOW.

Variations of the pumpkin latte and PSL range from 47 grams to 116 grams of sugar per large serving—well above the American Heart Association‘s recommended 24 grams of added sugar per day. While FOX News’s data uses Starbucks’ old recipe for the PSL—before it contained pumpkin puree—even updated info lists the drink as having 49 grams of sugar. And that’s for a nonfat, grande-sized latte.

The challenge is knowing how many grams of sugar are added in each drink, since nutrition labels cluster naturally occurring and added ones under the blanket category of just plain “sugar.” At this point, the American Heart Association recommends checking the ingredients listing for sucrose, maltose, honey, cane sugar, high fructose corn syrup, molasses, syrup, corn sweetener or fruit juice concentrates.

3. DUNKIN’ IS USHERING IN FALL FIRST (SO FAR).

While Starbucks hasn’t officially announced the date its PSL hits stores—not yet, anyway—Peet’s Coffee, McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts have been quick to release theirs. Dunkin’s the first to bring back the drink, releasing its fall menu in stores on Aug. 29, while the Golden Arches went with Aug. 30, and Peet’s pumpkin latte will roll out a day later, on the 31st.

If history is any indication, Starbucks will wait until after Labor Day to bring back the PSL. Though who knows, the drink has reached a level of fame that the ‘Bucks could pull a Beyoncé and quietly drop it in stores unannounced. (Not likely, but hey, @TheRealPSL has just as much sass as the former Sasha Fierce.)

4. IT’S THE MOST POPULAR SEASONAL DRINK THE ‘BUCKS HAS EVER SOLD.

The PSL has such a cult following that 108,000 people follow the drink—yes, the drink—on Twitter, waiting for clues to its return. It even had a secret Orange Sleeve Society last year, and to this day, it remains the siren-logoed store’s best-selling seasonal drink of all time. More than 200 million have been sold, according to a representative for the brand.

5. STARBUCKS USED PUMPKIN PIE TO CREATE THE ORIGINAL PSL.

The next time you complain about your job, consider how rough the recipe developers at Starbucks have it: To create the very first pumpkin spice latte, the product development team ate slices of pumpkin pie while sipping espresso to figure out how to blend the two flavors together, without one overpowering the other. It took three months of tasting and re-tasting drinks until they settled on The Pumpkin Spice Latte—a recipe that hadn’t changed until last year (more on that below).

6. NOT EVERY PSL CONTAINS REAL PUMPKIN.

Just because “pumpkin spice” is in the name doesn’t mean the gourd’s actually used to make the drink. In fact, it wasn’t until last year that Starbucks reconfigured its PSL to include it—previously, the pumpkin spice sauce was largely autumnal seasonings.

If drinking a latte that doesn’t contain real pumpkin puree makes you feel like you’re living a lie, ask to see the ingredients listing before ordering (or Google it). Sometimes, pumpkin spice simply refers to a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves, and the drink’s golden hue can be the result of caramel coloring. As more brands move away from using artificial colors and flavors, expect to see more of the real thing.

7. IT COULD MAKE YOU SPEND MORE MONEY.

People tend to spend a $1.14 more in stores when they’re ordering a Pumpkin Spice Latte, according to a study by the NPD Group. The organization analyzed 35,000 receipts, finding that buying the latte was a true #treatyoself moment—many people also splurged on something to eat with it, ratcheting up their bill a bit more than usual.

8. THE DRINK *COULD* HIT GROCERY STORES BEFORE CAFES THIS YEAR.

Right now, this is all a matter of timing: Starbucks hasn’t revealed the official release date of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, but a spokesperson confirmed its line of PS-flavored products sold in grocery stores (including its bottled Frappuccinos) would be in stores by September. So, depending on when the ‘Bucks actually releases the drink, you could—theoretically—find it in your local Kroger or Target before you can ask your barista to whip one up.

9. PEOPLE CRAVE PUMPKIN THE MOST ON ALL HALLOWS EVE.

For three years running, more people have downed pumpkin-y treats (including PSLs) on Oct. 31 than any other day of the year, according to data from MyFitnessPal. That’s probably because Halloween acts as a trigger, making you crave a festive drank to go with your mood.

10. THIS MAN IS THE GODFATHER OF THE PSL.

Twelve years ago, when Starbucks’s director of espresso, Peter Dukes, was a project manager, he was given a task: Create a pumpkin-y latte to round out the brand’s fall seasonal drinks. Duke’s team decorated the “Liquid Lab,” an R&D kitchen at Starbucks’s Seattle HQ, with fall decorations and brought in the aforementioned pumpkin pies, testing what was almost called the “Fall Harvest Latte,” before they settled on the name (and acronym) you know today.

“Nobody knew back then what it would grow to be,” Dukes said in 2014. “It’s taken on a life of its own.”

11. KNOWING WHEN THE PSL HITS STORES *COULD* MAKE YOU SEEM COOLER.

There’s a certain social currency in being that in-the-know friend; the one who tips other people off to what’s trending and what’s coming back, Invisible Influence author and Wharton marketing professor Jonah Berger told us last fall. Even though Pumpkin Spice Lattes have become lampooned as the “it” drink for “Basic B*tches” everywhere (you know, those girls who like universally likable things, which has somehow been contorted into an insult), knowing when the latte returns before anyone else does could earn you bragging rights—at least in some circles.

Of course, it has reached such a mainstream level of ubiquity that you could argue it’s about to go the way of all guilty pleasures, like watching Grey’s Anatomy after season 3 or listening to Creed albums: Something you indulge in secretly, out of concern people will judge you for loving a drink that’s often compared to a Yankee Candle.

Our take? You do you. Drink—or don’t—proudly.

NYC’s BlackTail Named Best New Cocktail Bar in America

A Cuban-inspired bar in New York City was just named the best new cocktail bar in America.

BlackTail, which is designed to mimic the decadent American bars in Cuba during Prohibition, was crowned “Best New American Cocktail Bar” at the Tales of the Cocktail festival in New Orleans.

“We are proud and humbled to win the Best New American Cocktail Bar Spirited Award. We dedicate this win to the everyday people of Cuba who inspire us with their resilience, grace, and high spirits,” says Jack McGarry, managing partner at BlackTail.

The bar’s name comes from the lavish seaplanes (whose tail ends were painted black) that ferried “dry” (and thirsty) Americans down to the “wet” island during Prohibition for liquid libations in the sun. It opened at New York Harbor’s historic Pier A in 2016.

One of the drinks on its menu, dubbed the Rum & Cola, is definitely decadent. As Grub Street first pointed out, the typical frat house drink is elevated through the addition of champagne, Fernet Branca, and homemade bitters. In fact, it’s the champagne that gives this drink its carbonation, since it’s made with cola syrup instead of Coca-Cola.

Here’s the recipe:

Rum & Cola

1 Dash Orinoco Bitters

1/2 Tsp Fernet

.75 oz Cola Syrup

1 oz Bacardi facundo NEO

4 oz Champagne

Method: Built

Glassware: Rocks & Big Rock

Garnish: Lemon Twist

Clubs Shine a Light on Redesigned Wine Rooms

Members and guests are raising a glass to how clubs are showcasing upgraded wine rooms and wine cellars as spirited new gathering spaces. 

Cheers to the wine room. Clubs across the country are breathing new life into these spaces, which are now being utilized not only as expanded storage facilities that reflect consumers’ ever-growing thirst for fine vintages (see chart, pg. 26), but also as unique and exciting new gathering places for drinks, dinner, socializing and special events. 

As more facilities begin to recognize the untapped potential of this aspect of their food-and-beverage programs, they are incorporating more functionality and purpose into wine room and wine cellar designs.

Adding ‘Elbow’ Room

With an increasingly expanding wine program and more members indulging in tastings, Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club in Bedminster, N.J., was in need of dedicated socializing space. “As our wine club has grown, we added wine lockers, and the demand for a casual space to hang out and sample wines became evident,” says General Manager Tom Hurley.

This past spring, the club added a wine cellar and lounge that has helped to boost wine and pre-dinner cocktail sales. Located between the club’s Elbow Bar and Elbow Restaurant/dining room, the lounge is easily accessible to the kitchen, which is used exclusively for a la carte service. (A larger and newly renovated kitchen is reserved for weddings and large-scale member events.) 

Designed in a rectangular style with brick walls and stone flooring, the cellar is described as “rustic and industrial at the same time,” says Assistant General Manager Michael Nyerges. Small, round tables and bucket seats can hold up to 28 people for an intimate dinner or a speakeasy. For the latter event, couches are added, to foster a more casual vibe.

Track lighting in the cellar spotlights select tables or bottles on display, while wine lockers provide their own illumination “that gives off blue light and sets the mood,” adds Nyerges. Sixty-four wine lockers, housing up to fifteen bottles each, are temperature-controlled and accessible only by the club’s three food-and-beverage managers. Currently sold out with a waiting list, the lockers are a testament to the popularity of Fiddler’s Elbow’s wine club.

Creating a flexible design that can accommodate changing logistics for dinners, receptions and speakeasies in the cellar posed some challenges for the Fiddler’s Elbow team, but Nyerges is pleased with management’s decision to maintain complete control over the operation. “We decided to design in-house without engaging designers, so it took longer, but we are most familiar with our needs,” he says.

Member comments have confirmed that these decisions were on target. Feedback regarding the wine cellar “has been nothing short of tremendous,” Executive Chef Michael Weisshaupt reports. “Members are now filling an empty space,” Weisshaupt says. “They meet here before dinner and many choose to [stay for] dinner. It is often active with wine club members stopping in to sample their wines.”

To further cement its commitment to wine programming, Fiddler’s Elbow is now hosting monthly wine club socials, in addition to monthly wine dinners. “Our traditional wine dinners always sell out, and these socials now offer a less expensive, more informal option,” says Weisshaupt. Fiddler’s Elbow members not only have the opportunity to sample boutique wines, but they can purchase them, too, which has helped to boost overall wine sales significantly.

From Boardroom to Wine Room

At the Bay Colony Golf Club in Naples, Fla., transforming a meeting room into a space that serves a growing wine program became a necessity. “We have an extensive wine program at the club  which includes intimate wine dinners, tastings and pairings like our ‘Wine Not’ dinners,” says Tammy Mercer, Director of Marketing and Membership Sales. A renovation of the 432-sq. ft. space was completed in December 2017, to better appeal to this expanding program.

Located just off the main dining room with easy access to the kitchen, the wine room makes a grand statement, with its mahogany wood doors offset by transitional décor. Upholstered chairs flank a long, conference room-style table that can seat up to fourteen guests. The overall design is complemented by patterned cream-colored carpeting, along with dimmable lighting can be adjusted for both business and social meetings. 

Running the length of the back wall are built-in wine coolers offset in smoked glass. Showcasing up to 400 bottles, the fully stocked, temperature-controlled facility has different settings for wines from all over the world, notes Mercer.

While the wine room can be reserved for private dinners, wine events and meetings, its functionality will be enhanced by the addition of forthcoming wine lockers. “We also do at least one wine trip to Europe each year,” Mercer notes, pointing to the Bay Colony membership’s increased interest in wine-related programming.

Thanks to the repurposed space, Bay Colony is reaping the rewards of its meeting room turned wine room. “We had an approximate 20 percent increase in reservations for private events in the wine room over the previous year, when it was a conference room,” says Mercer.

Under Wraps

Giving new life to a former underground bomb shelter by converting it into a thriving wine facility has proved to be a major asset for The Clubs at Houston Oaks in Hockley, Texas. Largely driven by the club owners, the space previously in usage during the Cold War and the Cuban Missile Crisis was repurposed into a Napa Valley-inspired wine-tasting lounge, private dining room and refrigerated storage cave last spring.

“[Our owners] wanted to enhance the notion of a wine club with a world-class facility for our wine enthusiasts to use and enjoy,” says CEO/General Manager Bob Gusella. 

Spanning approximately 13,000 sq. ft., half of Bunker 55 is dedicated to social elements (a tasting bar, lounge area, private dining room, restrooms and kitchen facilities), while the remaining real estate is reserved for long-term storage of private wine collections. Adjacent to the club’s boutique hotel, the underground facility is less than a mile from the main clubhouse and is easily accessible by car or golf cart. 

The main entry is just off the hotel parking lot, with a street-level door that leads to the bunker below. Special access is available for authorized personnel and members who have rented a storage bunk in the wine cave. This temperature-controlled portion of the bunker is set at 55 degrees (hence the name).

Converting the outdated space required a full-fledged remodel and build-out of the former bunker, including custom stone and brick work, antique barnwood beams and other customized wood elements, and the construction of a tasting bar and lounge areas. Such a comprehensive operation was challenged by the fact that this space lacked an elevator. 

“Everything that went into the bunker during construction—lumber, power tools, equipment, stone, brick, personnel—had to be taken down and removed later via manpower,” explains Gusella, who describes the 16-month-long endeavor as a “timeless, old-world project.” 

To update the space for its new purposes, concrete flooring has been acid-washed and polished and is now outfitted with antique area rugs. Furnishings were hand-picked by Marci Alvis, one of the club owners who manages the interior design for much of the facility. Lighting incorporates a range of decorative options, including recessed cans, directional spots, wall sconces, table lamps and custom chandeliers. 

With all the comforts of home, plus the addition of modern-day amenities, Bunker 55 has become a prime attraction, one that Gusella describes as “awe-inspiring.” 

“I can honestly say, as a club manager with nearly 30 years of experience, that I have never seen another facility like it—not even in Napa or France,” Gusellas says.

 Member usage covers a variety of uses, from bridal parties and rehearsal dinners to VIP receptions and milestone birthdays. One member used the facility to host a 50th birthday party for his wife and transformed into a fashion show. “It was quite an event, just like Fashion Week in New York City,” Gusella says. 

Further proof of members’ enthusiasm is in the club’s books; Houston Oaks wine sales have increased by 175 percent this year versus the first six months of 2018.

When The Patriot Golf Club in Owasso, Okla., mapped out plans for a new clubhouse, management decided to replicate its wine club, along with an added bonus. “In our new building, we decided to have a dedicated space that could be home to an expanded Cellar Club and offer members an enhanced private dining and event space,” says General Manager Ali Sezgin.

Building upon the original Cellar Room that had housed 48 lockers in a conference room, the renamed Barrel Room opened its doors in May 2018.

Situated just off the entry to the club’s family dining room, the 13’ x 28’ Barrel Room offers direct access to the kitchen for staff and members alike. The ceiling is outfitted with an oak tongue-and-groove style, with perpendicular iron straps across the oak planks evoking a wine barrel. This look is also carried across the flooring and wine lockers that are enhanced by dry-stacked stone columns separating individual locker bays. 

Running the length of the rectangular-shaped room is a 14-foot harvest table, bolstered by velvet upholstered chairs that serve as the focal point of the space. Overhead lighting is provided by a linear chandelier finished in burnished brass, rounded out by four matching sconces in the corner of the room.

For wine storage, the west and east walls contain 120 temperature-controlled lockers for members’ private stock and ten oversized lockers for the club’s library collection of wines. Total capacity is up to 2,000 bottles, and ported ventilation for each locker bay is directed into the attic above. An art-frame television on the southern wall provides an additional amenity for member viewing, and an underneath wine credenza is used for house wine storage.

Because the club’s original wine cellar served as a model for the new design, the team did not have to face any layout concerns. “The needs for this space were apparent from our previous wine room, and it helped to influence every decision we made,” notes Sezgin.

With an established group of Cellar Club members in place, The Patriot GC is now able to offer six to eight free tastings each year, providing more purchase opportunities for lockers. To further boost business, the club recently began hosting wine-education classes and dinners that have been well-attended. “Our focus is now to educate staff and members, so we can increase our wine sales,” Sezgin adds.

Everything You Need to Know About Soho House Hong Kong

A rendering of the House Brasserie, with views of Victoria Harbour from the 28th floor.

A decade in the making, Soho House Hong Kong is finally getting ready to open its doors this September. Memorably featured in a 2003 episode of Sex and the City and now something of a cultural phenomenon in its own right, the private members’ club was established in 1995 and has gone from one location in London to 24 clubs spanning the UK, North America, Europe and Asia. (When it opens this fall, Soho House Hong Kong will be the 25th.) In case you’re not familiar, the ethos of Soho House is simple: “to create a comfortable home from home for a community of like-minded people, wherever they are.”

Though one former proposed location was Tai Kwun, Soho House isn’t located in Hong Kong’s Soho neighbourhood but rather in Sheung Wan, on an unglamorous stretch of Des Voeux Road West. However, there are perks to this location: Occupying a 28-storey tower, Soho House features views over Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour and Victoria Peak. The interiors are being overseen by Soho House Design, an in-house team, with inspiration taken from the city itself, including colour palettes and references from Hong Kong films and the work of directors such as Wong Kar-wai. Patterns and fabrics that feel uniquely Hong Kong will feature prominently, while blending with the international design found throughout Soho Houses around the world.

Art features prominently throughout the property, with a permanent collection entirely focused on artists born or based in Hong Kong. Featuring over 100 works of art from established names such as Lee Kit and Tsang Kin Wah, emerging artists such as Firenze Lai and historic material from the likes of Ho Fan, Yau Leung, Wong Wo Bik and Choi Yan Chi, the collection has been curated by Kate Bryan, Head of Collections for Soho House.

What else is inside? Quite a lot, considering this is the biggest Soho House yet, spanning some 120,000 square feet. The gym, dubbed Soho Active, will span three floors linked by an internal staircase; reception and changing areas including sauna and steam rooms will be located on a separate floor. Elsewhere, a co-working space known as Soho Works will occupy nine floors of the building: Floors 17–23 will hold office space for Works members, while floors 2 and 3 will have a lounge and meeting spaces, where Works events will also be held.

A rendering of the Pool Room, located on the 30th floor.
The main member’s bar and club space on the 29th floor.

On the first floor, a white-box space called the House Studio will host exhibitions, shows and other events. On the ground floor, club reception will sit alongside a new concept called The Store, where members will be able to shop for products from Soho Home and Cowshed as well as items created by fellow members.

Most notable are the club floors, occupying floors 25–30. Up top is the 1970s-inspired Pool Room, designed as a solarium with plants, rattan furniture and daybeds, not to mention a swim-up bar. One floor below is the main bar and club space, with lounge-style furniture, a dark colour palette and a stage that will be used for karaoke nights. The House Brasserie is found on the 28th floor, where a menu of Soho House classics (brick chicken, the Dirty Burger) will be served alongside locally inspired seafood dishes, siu mei, dim sum and Peking duck.

A rendering of The Drawing Room.
A function room on the 26th floor.
An events room on the 25th floor.

On the 27th floor, the Drawing Room is a light, bright space with contemporary design: think cork ceiling, jade greens and burnt orange. The menu includes a daily afternoon tea set, and there are two private dining areas, which can be fully closed off for events. Two events spaces — a private dining room and a function room — occupy the 26th floor, both equipped with marble-top bars; there’s also a stage which will be used for members’ events. Last but not least, the 25th floor houses a pre-events bar, a screening room and a large function space. Different floors will open in phases, with the club floors expected to be finished by mid-September, while other sections of the building will open in winter and spring.

One of the changing rooms at the gym.
A rendering of the gym’s studio space.
The gym’s reception area.

If you want to become a member, you can start the process here, but note that demand is high and membership is limited to those in the creative industries. There are, however, benefits to joining sooner than later: Existing Cities Without Houses members and founder members will have free access to Soho Works and Soho Active for a year, while those who join after September will have to pay additional fees for usage of those amenities.

To find out more about this highly anticipated new opening, we sat down with Nick Jones, Founder and CEO of Soho House, to chat about Hong Kong’s creative scene, where he plans to open clubs next and more.

Nick Jones at Soho House Barcelona

Soho House is famous for having a rule against suits and ties, and not really welcoming finance types. Is that still true to this day? Has it changed over time?

Loads of bankers going out for a big knees up on a Thursday night is not something we want to become because it’s not very nice [to be around]. But, individually, we have nothing against anyone. We don’t want Soho House to be a place full of corporate entertaining; we want Soho House to be full of like-minded evenings and fun moments. I think people in finance have changed, so we’re not saying no to finance — the no suit and tie was just one way of [expressing our point of view]. And of course, there are plenty of people with great suits and ties who have nothing to do with finance.

There were reports that Soho House Hong Kong would open in March or earlier. What caused the delays?

We never announced exactly when we were opening. We were hoping to open before the summer, and if we really pushed it, we probably could’ve opened by the end of June. But what we decided to do is hold off and do it properly in September. So the answer is yes, it has been a slight delay but no worse than what we usually have. To achieve a 30-storey tower block and club within just over two years is a pretty good achievement.

When do you plan to welcome members to Soho House Hong Kong?

Certainly all the club floors will be finished by the end of September, but the four main club floors will be open the week commencing September 8th for an open house. To have one big party is, you know, you have to move all the furniture out, and what we want to do is show the house off in its glory. So we’ll just invite our founder membership over a period of four nights. We don’t want them all to come up the same night because it needs to be controlled. They’ll come in to experience the club, eat in the club, drink in the club, look at the entertainment.

The three floors of Soho Active will be ready from September the 8th. Soho Works will come online in January and the completion of the ground floor store will be in January or February. So by spring next year everything will be really up and running.

For someone who’s never heard of heard of Soho House, why should they want to be a member?

Just because the club originated from Britain, it doesn’t mean we’re an expat club. We are a club for Hong Kong Chinese and we very much want them to feel that we’re offering everything that they need. Hong Kong is a fantastic city with many incredible places to go. What we want at Soho House Hong Kong is just to add something additional to the city. I think what’s different is that we are under one roof, we’re in a great location, and we’ve got plenty of space. We’re not going to be here now and gone in three years’ time. We have a very substantial lease through our partners, Nan Fung. We are investing a lot of money to make sure that the members, every single member, is taken care of. I hope that the people of Hong Kong will find that very appealing.

As you know, Hong Kong already has many private members’ clubs. How is Soho House different?

Hong Kong has had lots of members’ clubs, a bit like the way that Britain has had lots of members’ clubs. I think what’s different about us is that we’re inclusive, not exclusive. We are aiming at a younger, more creative demographic — and the fact that we’re not about money.

I only want a membership to Soho House to improve someone’s life. It’s not just physical space I’m talking about, it’s not just a nice place to hang out and drink and meet and whatever. We care deeply about making sure that people in our community meet other people in our community who might be able to help them. I think with members’ events and everything we’re doing, all we’re trying to do is make our members’ lives better.

How will Soho House Hong Kong be different from the other 24 clubs?

Well, this is the biggest House, and it’s the first one where we’ve properly integrated the work space, the gym space and the House space into one building. We feel it’s a fabulous location. And of course, it’s our first entry into the Far East. That makes me nervous but at the same time it makes me incredibly excited.

Why should that make you nervous?

Because if you’re not nervous, you’re complacent. And I don’t think that’s a good thing.

Why open in Hong Kong before Beijing or Tokyo?

Beijing and Shanghai and Tokyo and Bangkok are very much on our list. It just so happened that we felt Hong Kong was going to be the first one to get into. And if Hong Kong works, we will be having a very, very proactive expansion around the Far East.

Why is now the right time for Soho House to open in Hong Kong?

The timing is more accidental than deliberate. We have been looking for a Soho House in Hong Kong for nearly a decade now. As you know it’s really difficult to find good properties with a decent lease in good areas in Hong Kong, so it’s taken us a long time to find it. But saying that, I think Hong Kong has changed and the creative industries are certainly popping up much more visibly than they were. Fashion music, art — these are very big parts of everyday life here.

Hong Kong has changed and will continue to change, and having something like Soho House here will also help it change. There’s also an incredibly interesting community of people who are in those businesses who would love a place where they could gather under one roof and feel that they are part of the same community. The people I’ve met in Hong Kong, they will be brilliant additions to our global community.

Unlike other clubs, this Soho House has no hotel accommodations. Was that a deliberate decision?

Well, it was not a deliberate decision because we initially put in an application for 60 bedrooms. Through some technical issues with the size of a building, at this stage it was not possible. Now, we could have reapplied and probably got them, but we sort of felt that actually, even though bedrooms are a nice amenity, it’s not an amenity that local Hong Kong people necessarily want, because they live in Hong Kong. We felt like giving more work space, more club space and more fitness space was better, so that’s why we dropped the idea.

How has Soho House changed since its founding?

When we started nearly 25 years ago, what we created there was a home from home for people who were prominently in the creative industries, but had a like-mindedness about them where they could meet, connect, work, watch movies, go to members’ events. I suppose in a way, the principle of that is exactly the same now. Soho House for 25 years has created a community for its membership, created content for its membership, and created connectability within its membership. As the years have progressed, we’ve really just added to what we had at the beginning, albeit in a more global, diverse, interesting way.

After you open a new club, how do you judge its success?

Our success is judged purely on member reaction. It’s not done on figures or P&L sheets. It’s purely done on reaction, how often our members are using us and the feedback we get.

What other Soho House locations are in the works?

We’ve got Rome opening next year, and Milan currently under construction. We’ve got Lisbon just about to go under construction, and Paris opening next year. We’ve got Nashville opening, Austin opening, and we’re doing one in Philadelphia. There’s many more houses to come. Our members love more houses: It makes our community of members more interesting because you go into each city and get the cream of that city and they join the global gang.

Will any parts of Soho House Hong Kong be open to the public?

Sure, we’ll have exhibitions which will be open to the public, and times when The Store is open to the public downstairs. But [generally], you have to have a membership to be able to come in here.

10 Of The Most Exclusive Private Members’ Clubs In Hong Kong

Because you’re not really one of the “who’s who” in Hong Kong unless you’re a member of a private club. In no particular order, here are 10 clubs in the city where membership is the most coveted:

Photo: Courtesy of The American Club

1/10: The American Club

You don’t have to be American to join this club, but it sure does help. Think burgers and apple pie, Thanksgiving and sports bars–whatever it is you’re missing from the good ol’ US of A, you’ll find it at the club’s two locations.

The Town Club, right in the heart of Central, is the perfect place to indulge in some adult time with top-class restaurants and a fitness centre, while the country club in Tai Tam has something for everyone including a spa, swimming pool, basketball court, tennis and squash courts. 

The American connection: The club prides itself on its close relationship with other American organisations such as the American Chamber of CommerceAmerican Women’s Associationand the United States Consulate General.

Wine and dine: The Town Club boasts five venues including elegant restaurant The Clipper, a steakhouse and a sports bar. Private dining rooms are also available on request. The Country Club offers relaxed venues including a café, wine bar, terrace dining and a poolside grill.

For the family: Make use of the sports bar with family zone and den at the Town Club or the “Eagle’s Nest” at the Country Club, a 10,000 square-foot play space. The Country Club is also home to Chill & Joe’s teen hangout with big screen TVs, game systems, pool tables and more. There are also plenty of family events including an Independence Day picnic, Superbowl breakfast and Halloween haunted house to name a few.

Joining & Membership Fee: The waiting list is around one and a half years and applicants must be proposed and seconded by two active voting members of 12 months standing. A number of different memberships are available. If you’re an American citizen, an American Individual Membership is HK$438,000, with monthly fees of HK$2,570.

A Transferable American Individual Membership is HK$250,000 with monthly fees of HK$1,950. Finally, there’s also a One-Year Temporary Membership at HK$45,600 with monthly fees of HK$1,950, and a Debenture Membership is also available via an agent.

No. of Members: Around 2,800

Photo: Courtesy of The Aberdeen Marina Club

2/10: The Aberdeen Marina Club

If you’re looking for that “wow” factor, you’ll find it here at one of Hong Kong’s most well-equipped clubs. AMC boasts seven restaurants, separate kids’ play zones, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a bowling alley, fitness centre, a hair and beauty salon and an ice rink, to name a few.

Managed by the Shangri-La group, you’ll find the same attention detail as you would in their hotels, keeping you in the lap of luxury throughout. And, as if that wasn’t enough, there’s also fully serviced marina to park your superyacht. 

Wine and dine: Feast on signature dry-aged and wet-aged meat cuts at the Marina Grill before heading to the adjacent bar, where mixologist Matthew Lau will prepare a cocktail tailored to your tastes. There’s also The Deck with views over the marina, The Horizon Chinese restaurant, Caffe Luna Italian restaurant and LaCave wine bar.

For the family: Take the little ones up to “Kids on 8!” for an interactive area of mini-worlds, and keep the older ones busy in the two-level indoor playroom with climbing challenges and vertical drop slides. Teenagers have their own Chill Zone and a special graffiti-sprayed lounge area, The Yard. 

Joining & Membership Fee: While there’s no waiting list and hopeful applicants can submit a letter of application, membership is strictly by invitation only. You’ll be paying upwards of HK$3,000,000 on the second-hand market.

No. of Members: Around 3,600

Photo: Courtesy of The Hong Kong Country Club

3/10: The Hong Kong Country Club

If you haven’t walked barefoot across the Country Club’s manicured lawn, you’re missing out on a quintessential Hong Kong experience. Founded in the 1960s, this club makes the most of its Southside location with stunning views over Deep Water Bay.

It has plenty of facilities to keep you and your little rascals busy, including tennis and squash courts, a bowling alley, health centre, swimming pool and some truly divine restaurants.

Fun fact: This is the club where former French consul general, Marc Fonbaustier, was expelled in 2010 for stealing two bottles of wine.

Wine and dine: The club has both a Chinese and French-inspired restaurant as well as outdoor Italian dining on the Foreshore Deck and the Garden Room, which serves international cuisine. 

For the family: The club has an adventure playground with wooden climbing frames set right next to the lawn, where they can run to their heart’s desire. There’s also an indoor playroom with a full-time supervisor. The littlest members are catered for with events including “Funtastic Sunday,” featuring bouncy castles on the lawn. 

Joining & Membership Fee: The waiting list is upwards of 10 years, and applications are assessed according to a strict nationality quota to ensure the organisation’s diversity. Expect an individual membership to set you back HK$460,000, while a corporate membership is HK$5,000,000. Monthly fees are HK$2,500.

No. of Members: 2,000

Photo: Courtesy of The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club Hong Kong

4/10: The Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club

If you can bear to leave the city for a day, you won’t regret it once you see this charming and relaxed club set at the tip of the Clearwater Bay peninsula. If you want to get your golf on, head to the golf club’s spectacular 18-hole course.

Wine and dine: Work up an appetite with squash, tennis or a workout in the gym (followed by a steam, sauna and massage, of course). Then sip on champagne at the Oasis café as you look out over the enormous pool with uninterrupted views of picturesque coastlines. 

There are two dining options available at the country club—Ocean View for Chinese cuisine and dim sum, and Oasis Café for international fare. Horizons at the golf club serves breakfast, lunch and snacks.

For the family: The country club has a great indoor playroom and two outdoor playgrounds. There are also various family activities arranged throughout the year, including a camping trip on the property and a pool party every summer. 

Joining & Membership Fee: Members must be recommended by a proposer and a seconder, attend an interview and be approved by the committee. The waiting list is around two years.

Individual fees for the Country Club are HK$880,000 while corporate fees are HK$1,320,000, each with monthly fees of HK$1,600. Individual fees for the Golf and Country Club are HK$4,200,000, while corporate fees are HK$6,300,000 and monthly fees are HK$2,600.

No. of Members: Over 3,000

Photo: Courtesy of The Hong Kong Jockey Club

5/10: The Hong Kong Jockey Club

Forget watching the races from the public stands. Once you’re a member here, you’ll have access to plenty of exclusive venues from which to bet, including restaurants, bars and even a rocking lounge with its own private terrace.

Take advantage of the three fully-equipped clubhouses with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sports complexes, children’s play areas and more.

Wine and dine: Between the three clubhouses and the two racecourses, you won’t run out of dining options. There are 10 restaurants serving an array of cuisines, plus bars, buffet dining halls and outdoor dining venues. If you’ve still got the energy, head over to Adrenaline bar and lounge in Happy Valley, which is open until midnight.

For the family: All three clubhouses boast fantastic amenities including swimming pools, outdoor areas and playrooms. There are also plenty of horsey activities including riding lessons and the opportunity to adopt and care for the ponies as part of the newly introduced “Fun with Ponies” programme. 

Joining & Membership Fee: Anyone can apply to be a member, but corporate membership is by invitation only. Racing members must be voted in and seconded by a resident honorary steward, honorary voting member or voting member of the club. A second resident of the same plus three other members must support your application.

Racing members pay HK$125,000 with monthly fees of HK$650, while full memberships are $HK500,000. Corporate memberships range from HK$2,200,000 to HK$4,400,000 with monthly fees of HK$2,200.

No. of Members: 13,300

Photo: Courtesy of The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club

6/10: The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club

Slip on your Sperry’s and sling your jacket over your shoulder—this is the place to be for yachties and rowers alike. At each of the club’s three waterfront locations, you can enhance your skills with a variety of courses or rent the club’s dinghies at your leisure.

Once you are back on dry land, schmooze with like-minded individuals as you sip on specially curated and subsidised wines. There are plenty of other facilities for landlubbers too, including restaurants, a bowling alley, gym, pool and squash courts. 

Wine and dine: There are an array of dining establishments, including fine dining at the Compass Room, casual coffee shop fare, a bar and deck, and BBQ and a-la-carte dining at Middle Island and Shelter Cove.

For the family: This is a great place to encourage your mini-me’s love of the water with fantastic courses starting from the age of 6. Little non-sailors have been kept in mind throughout each location too, with playrooms, playgrounds, pool parties, board games and other fun things for them to do.

Joining and Membership Fee: For the cheapest fees, you’ll need to prove your experience in sailing or rowing and show your willingness to participate in activities with the club. For ordinary membership, you’ll need a proposer from the club. Expect to wait between two to six weeks. 

Anordinary single membership is HK$91,800 while an ordinary married couple membership is HK$137,700. There’s also an individual debenture membership at HK$1,875,000 and corporate nominee membership at HK2,250,000. Monthly fees range from HK$2,000 to HK $4,260.

No. of Members: 13,300 (5,800 active members, 7,500 absent members worldwide) 

Photo: Courtesy of Hong Kong Football Club

7/10: Hong Kong Football Club

If you’re not at home in sports gear, this probably isn’t the club for you. Most members are here to take advantage of the fantastic collection of indoor and outdoor facilities first and socialize later.

Set in the heart of Happy Valley, this club has Hong Kong’s largest collection of pitches and grounds including football, rugby, netball and hockey, as well as a swimming pool, bowling alley, snooker room, golf simulator and fitness centre.

Wine and dine: With sport being at the forefront here, there are adult and family bars showing a range of games on television. The Sportsman’s bar is the place for beer drinkers with 12 taps of draught and pub-style meals served inside or on the terrace, while the Chairman’s bar provides a more formal setting.

There’s also a coffee shop for casual meals and a fine dining restaurant with a weekly set menu and a comprehensive wine list. 

For the family: There’s a lot going on here for even the littlest sportsman, with classes and teams running for all ages, as well as a ten-pin bowling complex and two children’s playrooms. The Christmas fete has seasonal arts and crafts and games for the kids, with music and entertainment and a bar for parents.

Joining & Membership Fee: Sports members are popular here. If you can pass trials and prove your commitment you could be in within a few weeks. Membership is open to all Hong Kong residents.

Non-sports preferred members can expect to pay HK$400,000, while sports preferred members pay HK$25,000. Corporate fees are HK$2,400,000, while monthly fees are HK$1,525.  

No. of Members: 3,300

Photo: Courtesy of The China Club, Hong Kong

8/10: The China Club, Hong Kong

If it’s classic elegance you’re after, look no further than The China Club. Opened in 1991 by the inimitable late David Tang, the décor is pure 1930s Shanghai, filled with art and antiquities from the era.

The attention to detail here is striking—from the art-deco sweeping staircase to the Bosendorfer grand piano in the corner of the dining room, you’d be forgiven for forgetting you’re in the middle of one of the world’s most bustling cities.

Culture club: The club boasts a mahjong room and a library with an extensive collection of books on China and the Chinese people, not to mention striking views over our great city.

Wine and dine: The main dining room on the 13th floor prides itself on its authentic Chinese cuisine, or you can simply while away your evening drinking at the ultra-luxe Long Bar. There are also plenty of rooms dedicated to private dining with banqueting menus available to suit every taste.

While little ones are welcome at this club, we suggest you leave them at home to avoid any unwanted accidents with the expensive artworks. 

Joining & Membership Fee: To join, simply fill in the entry form from the club and you’re good to go. Membership fees range from HK$120,000-$150,000.

No. of Members: Around 3,000

Photo: Courtesy of The Hong Kong Golf Club

9/10: The Hong Kong Golf Club

This is a must for any golfer worth his salt in Hong Kong. Set on the south side of the island across from Deep Water Bay, the stunning nine-hole par 56 course takes up a large piece of prime real estate and has the price tag to match. The club prides itself on nurturing local talent, and has many high-profile members including the up-and-coming Tuen-Mun born Tiffany Chan.

If you fancy a bit of a time out, get hit the gym for a Body Torque Asia personal training session or relax in the secluded walled-in swimming pool. Be sure to head to the sauna to ease those muscles afterwards. The club’s other site in Fanling boasts three additional 18-hole courses.

Wine and dine: Enjoy Cantonese BBQ and dim sum at The Pavilion, or sample international delights at The Fairway Grill. For more laidback dining head to the verandah and bar or, at the other end of the scale, hold a banquet for up to 115 guests at The Orchid Room overlooking the golf course.

For the family: Promotions for Father’s Day and Mother’s Day are popular, as is the Family BBQ by the pool, which includes inflatables for the little ones. 

Joining & Membership Fee: There’s been no opportunity to join this club for a while now. Don’t give up though, as they do occasionally issue a limited number of new memberships. A second-hand membership will set you back around HK$17 million.

No. of Members: Around 2,500

Photo: Courtesy of The Hong Kong Club

10/10: The Hong Kong Club

You’ll know you’ve made it if you get to call this your home away from home. Founded in 1846 and full of old world charm and elegant colonial décor, it harks back to an era when only men would meet to quaff whiskey and discuss business. Thankfully, it has moved on from the days when women weren’t allowed, but exclusivity is still key.

Known simply as “The Club” to its members, its current Central location houses 25 floors of incredible leisure and fitness facilities including restaurants, squash courts, a bowling alley, a billiards room, a fantastic library and even its own barber.

Wine and dine: Two restaurants and three bars serving everything from light lunch and snacks to Chinese and Western fine dining. There’s also a selection of private function rooms and a garden lounge. You wouldn’t want to look out of place here, so make sure you check the website for the club’s extensive dress codes.

No photos: Memories of your days here are for your eyes only, as no photography is allowed anywhere in the club. 

Joining & Membership Fee: Shhh—we don’t talk money here, darling.

No. of Members: 1,550

Yes, James Bond is an Alcoholic – But Which Other Film & TV Characters Should Cut Back on Booze?

An academic report shows 007 is frequently over the limit in life-threatening situations. But, from Homer Simpson to Tyrion Lannister, he is far from alone…

Shaken, not stirred … Daniel Craig as 007 in Skyfall. Photograph: Everett/Rex Shutterstock

oday’s “Well Duh” award goes to New Zealand’s University of Otago, which just published a real-life academic study in the Medical Journal of Australia pointing out that James Bond is an alcoholic. During one flight in Quantum of Solace, the study states, Bond consumed 24 units of alcohol; enough to kill a man. But this isn’t news. Anyone can see that 007 is a drunk. Why not focus on these other, lesser celebrated, screen alcoholics instead.

Homer Simpson

Has been arrested for drink-driving, has attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, struggled to go a month without drinking and is prone to bouts of impulsive violence that include, but are not limited to, angrily strangling his son. The man, quite simply, is a monster.

Mr Miyagi

Remember that scene in The Karate Kid where Mr Miyagi drinks a bottle of whisky, dresses up in his old army uniform, invites a 17-year-old boy to his house and then forces him to get drunk? It hasn’t exactly aged terrifically well.

Tony Stark

He was always an alcoholic in the comics, but Tony Stark’s film output has mostly skirted the issue of substance addiction. But it is there, if you look hard enough. He is drinking in a Humvee in the first scene of Iron Man, he is making a cocktail when Loki confronts him in The Avengers and, oh, actually, didn’t he wet himself in the middle of Iron Man 2? That’s a pretty good sign.

Bender

Futurama’s resident misanthropic robot has a good excuse to drink booze – he is powered by alcohol-based fuels, after all – but he arguably drinks more than is needed. After all, the ability to involuntarily burp flames is not usually associated with healthy, non-dependent alcohol consumption.

Charlie Kelly

James Bond might drink enough to die, but he has nothing on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’s Charlie. In the episode The Gang Beats Boggs, Charlie attempts to drink 70 beers over the course of a single flight. He manages 71, plus a rum and coke, and miraculously remains alive. Maybe he should be the one fighting Blofeld.

Tyrion Lannister

Tyrion Lannister drinks an awful lot in Game of Thrones. Then again, if you had just murdered your father shortly after learning that your brother and sister are conducting a sexual affair, and your entire world is set to be decimated by an army of deathless ice zombies, you would probably want a tipple too.

World’s Most Expensive Bottle of Whisky That Was Made in 1926 Sells for Record-Breaking £850,000 in Edinburgh

A Bonhams porter shows the bottle of Macallan Valerio Adamai 1926 whisky to packed auction house in Edinburgh today. The whisky was bottled in 1986 having been stored in a vat for 60 years previously

The world’s most expensive bottle of whisky – described by experts as the ‘Holy Grail’ – has been sold for nearly £850,000 at auction.

The 60-year-old Macallan Valerio Adami 1926 sold for a record-breaking £848,750 when it went under the hammer today at Bonhams Whisky Sale in Edinburgh.

Although 12 bottles of the vintage whisky were produced, it is not known how many of them still exist.

Bonhams auctioneer Charles Graham-Campbell takes bids during the sale of this whisky.

The bottle (right), which was expected to fetch between £700,000 and £900,000 ended up being sold for a record-breaking £848,750

One is said to have been destroyed in an earthquake in Japan in 2011, and it is believed that at least one of them has been opened and consumed.

Since the auction was announced earlier this year, Bonhams has been receiving inquiries from across the world, particularly China, for the tipple.

Bonhams Whisky specialist in Edinburgh, Martin Green, said: ‘I am delighted at this exceptional result.

‘It is a great honour to have established a new world record, and particularly exciting to have done so here in Scotland, the home of whisky.

‘Bonhams now holds the record for the three most valuable bottles of whisky ever sold at auction.’

The whisky was bottled in 1986 having been stored in a vat for 60 years previously.

Bonhams’ auction house in Edinburgh was packed out for the sale of the whisky today. Martin Green, Bonhams’ whisky specialist Martin Green said he was delighted with the result of the auction

Although 12 bottles of the vintage whisky (pictured) were produced, it is not known how many of them still exist. When they were bottled in 1986 Macallan commissioned world-famous pop artist Valerio Adami to design a label for the 12 bottles. Valerio Adami is an Italian artist famous for painting bold, flat forms outlined in thick, black lines, in a style reminiscent of comic art

The price keeps on rising at Bonhams’ auction house in Edinburgh where the whisky – made in 1926 – fetched a whopping £848,750 at auction

The whisky was expected to fetch between £700,000 and £900,000 at auction.

Macallan commissioned two world-famous Pop Artists, Valerio Adami and Peter Blake, to design labels for a very limited edition of 24 bottles -12 of the Adami and 12 of the Blake labels.

Valerio Adami (born 1935) is an Italian artist famous for painting bold, flat forms outlined in thick, black lines, in a style reminiscent of comic art.

He is among the most acclaimed of 20th Century Pop Artists.

The previous record for a whisky sale was held by another bottle of The Macallan Valerio Adami 1926 which was sold at Bonhams Hong Kong in May.

It was sold for a world record-breaking price of £814,081 – the most paid for a bottle of Scotch whisky at public auction at the time.

Harvard Club Considers a Change, and Some Think It’s the ‘Worst Thing Ever’

Members of the Harvard Club are upset about a proposal to turn the majestic Harvard Hall, designed by the famed architect Charles McKim, into a dining room. Credit: Ramsay de Give for The New York Times

On the wood-paneled walls of Harvard Hall, the majestic heart of the Harvard Club in Midtown Manhattan, hang portraits of Teddy Roosevelt and other notable graduates. The head of an elephant, a gift to the club, hovers in an alcove where members luxuriate on plush leather couches to read and sometimes nap.

It is a place of elegance and quiet contemplation, and as rarefied spaces go, there are few more rarefied. “I see it as Harvard asserting its primacy as an early American institution,” Barry Bergdoll, a professor of modern architectural history at Columbia University, said of the room.

But when the club’s leadership proposed turning Harvard Hall into a dining room, the sniping among members had all the gentility of a barroom brawl.

“I have been called a fascist dictator,” Michael Holland, the club president, told more than 200 unhappy members during a meeting on Sept. 12.

Harvard Hall has been used for dining before, from 1905 to 1915. Credit: Harvard Club

The crowd booed. “I am not defensive,” he said.

According to people in attendance and a recording of the meeting obtained by The New York Times, one member accused Mr. Holland of sending misleading emails. People clapped when a person called for the club’s leadership to resign. Still others questioned why a change was necessary given the club’s overall financial health.

Depending on whom one talks to, the proposed change to Harvard Hall is either a vast conspiracy to turn the esteemed club into a catering-venue-for-hire or an attempt by the leadership to stem losses in its food and beverage business.

It is not uncommon in the genteel world of New York private clubs for members to weigh profit and convenience. But the members of the Harvard Club seem to be taking this proposal personally.

Ivan Shumkov, an architect, called it one of the most sacred spaces in New York, having been created by an architectural icon, the Harvard alumnus Charles McKim. “If we destroy Harvard Hall,” he said that night, “I think it will be the worst thing ever.”

While refugees of the Yale Club, for example, have long complained it is more corporate than clubby, the Harvard Club, on West 44th Street, has maintained a familial appeal. The membership, roughly 13,000, is made up mostly of faculty, graduates and their spouses. There is a gym with squash courts and guest rooms decorated with university memorabilia for overnight stays. Every year the club holds its own Christmas tree lighting. New York residents pay as much as $2,147 annually in dues, with nonresidents and newer graduates paying less.

A chandelier, decorated with the university shield, in Harvard Hall. Credit: Ramsay de Give for The New York Times

What makes the ruckus at the Harvard Club particularly sensitive is Harvard Hall itself. Mr. McKim built the club, adding Harvard Hall, with its blush-colored French stone walls and two walk-in fireplaces, in 1905. He and his firm, McKim, Mead & White, designed some of the most celebrated Beaux-Art architecture in America, including the University Club of New York, much of Columbia University, the Pierpont Morgan Library and the Boston Public Library.

“It is quite distinct in New York,” Mr. Bergdoll said of Harvard Hall. “It is meant to represent Harvard.”

Like many fights, the one at the Harvard Club started over money. Mr. Holland, the owner of a private investment firm who like other club officers is a volunteer, said that three years ago, the club instituted 22 recommendations to shore up its finances. One recommendation not pursued at the time was to move the a la carte dining service from the dining room, with its airy windows and high balcony, into Harvard Hall. The idea was not unprecedented; Harvard Hall hosted diners from 1905 to 1915.

Since those changes, losses in the club’s food and beverage business have persisted. A mere 8 percent of members accounted for 50 percent of a la carte dining revenue last year, suggesting the dining room is underused.

In February, the club hired Julia Heyer, a restaurant consultant whose firm has worked on projects at Grand Central Terminal and for Brooklyn Brewery. Mr. Holland said she proposed that club dining be moved to Harvard Hall and that two kitchens be separated to improve efficiency. At the same time, the current dining room, which is more spacious than Harvard Hall, could be rented out for larger weddings and banquets, generating more revenue.

The changes didn’t seem too drastic to Mr. Holland. “It’s just moving the furniture,” he said. “It’s not an earthshaking change in how the rooms are used.”

Many members, though, had a different take. In early August, three former committee members of the club sent an email to the board of trustees. The men, Jonathan David, E. Theodore Lewis Jr. and Charles Lauster, laid out reasons the proposal to turn Harvard Hall into a dining room should be rejected.

They warned that the use of the main dining room for banquets and special events would “negatively effect the ambiance of the club” and “eliminate Harvard Hall as a place of quiet enjoyment for members and guests.”

“We are not opposed to making changes that could place the Club on a sounder financial foot,” they wrote. “But we view the current proposal as ill-considered, insufficiently researched and unnecessarily disruptive.”

Mr. Holland said the authors commented without knowing all the facts. (In an email, Mr. David said the three men declined to comment.) Herbert Pliessnig, the club’s general manager, said in an interview that the club planned to hold only an additional five to 10 events annually if the proposal were adopted.

The current dining hall could be rented out for more events if dining were moved to Harvard Hall. Credit: Ramsay de Give for The New York Times

Mr. Holland said of the men: “They really care about the club. How they go about it is their business, whatever they do.”

Their email was widely shared among members, particularly the club’s special interest groups, who frequently meet to discuss topics like American literature, politics or history.

Some were concerned that they would have limited access to quiet rooms if the Harvard Club rented out more space to outsiders. Others were displeased that lunch would no longer be served on the balcony of the main dining room, a favorite gathering spot, if that room were turned into an event space. Mr. Holland said he has received hundreds of emails, mostly in opposition.

One of those letters was from Seth  Herbert, a former vice president and senior international counsel at Estée Lauder who has been a club member for 25 years. He said in an interview that he had left the Yale Club (he has degrees from both schools) because it no longer felt like “home” and that he worried the same would happen to the Harvard Club. “I’m very ambivalent about the proposal,” he said. “It is a major decision that affects the culture of the club.”

Mr. Holland said there would be no decision on Harvard Hall without a vote of the members. He and his team have held three meetings to present the plan. At the first one, on Sept. 7, they laid out two options: members could choose to make Harvard Hall a dining room or they could not. If they opposed the change, annual dues could increase by as much as 10 percent, according to the presentation.

The Sept. 12 meeting, judging by the recording, was particularly tense. Among other accusations, one man told Mr. Holland that an email sent to members with the headline, “Enhancing Your Member Experience,” mischaracterized the seriousness of the proposed change. Most people didn’t read past the first sentence, the man said.

By the third meeting, on Sept. 18, “it was more mixed, but still emotional,” Mr. Holland said. “A couple of times I had to explain that we are volunteers and we are trying to do good.”