Isaia Global CEO, Gianluca Isaia, Reveals His Favorite NYC Haunts

Gianluca Isaia, the dapper Global CEO of his eponymous menswear label, Isaia, is in town for the opening of his New York shop and reveals his Big Apple fav’s while he’s in the concrete jungle—with a decidedly refined Italian point of view.

Favorite shopping:
Of course my new favorite spot in New York is the ISAIA boutique on Madison. Its the perfect place to have an appertivo or espresso while helping customers pick fabrics. Other than that I love to browse Bergdorfs, Barneys, and Saks to see what they are doing creatively with their displays. For gifts, I love the MoMa’s Design Shop and the new Whitney Museum shop downtown where I can get fun, eccentric gifts for friends.

Favorite Spot for cappuccino:
Zibetto Espresso is a true Italian spot for a coffee and somewhat hidden on 6th Ave. 

Favorite Restaurant:
I typically don’t eat at Italian restaurants in New York, but San Pietro is one of my all time favorites and one of the only Italian restaurants that is authentic. Everything is cooked perfectly. Its also a little bit under the radar which I like. For a fun, lively dinner, I do love The NoMad. The combination of the atmosphere and cuisine is perfect.  

Favorite Cultural Activity:
I love to explore the culinary scene and visit the new art exhibits at some of the worlds best museums, but one of my favorite things is observing the street style of youth in NYC to draw inspiration. It is where I see what is new and fresh, (and also what doesn’t work:).

Favorite Touristy Thing to do in NYC:
Walk. Everywhere.

Chicest Place for Dinner:
The attention to detail of Chef Thomas Keller at Per Se‘ is unlike any where else in the world. The way he and his team prepare and give thought to their process and presentation is how true artwork is made.  And it tastes amazing. 

Favorite Hotel:
This is constantly changing for me—I like seeing what is new and different in luxury hotels. I have enjoyed my stays at The Surrey. The Baccarat is also a beautiful setting. Just don’t break anything.