ELEVATED EXPERIENCES
TRENDING CITY HOTSPOTS
As uncovered in Cassandra's Values and Value - Consumer Confidence report, Gen Zs are not afraid to free up their disposable income and splurge on purchases and experiences that make sense to them and bring them joy. As they continue to play catch up in the “making memories” department due to the Pandemic causing them to miss out on so many milestone moments, some Gen Zs and younger Millennials are going big. Like really big. So, whenever you’re looking for an exceptionally good time, gather your friends and check out these unique new spots and truly elevated experiences that have hit our radar.
THE OFFICE OF MR MOTO
As a generation that treats themselves more regularly than any other cohort, for those Gen Zs looking to splurge on a truly decadent and unique experience, NYCs latest speakeasy joining the omakase scene requires guests to decode an email before visiting to get the entrance code and is filled with eclectic Japanese antiques. Be sure to go hungry because the 23-course meal at The office of Mr Moto is focused on hyper-seasonal and rare ingredients flown in daily from Japan. The tasting format is meant to take you on a journey through the different centuries of Japanese cuisine. Following the meal, patrons can linger in the Library and enjoy a drink while listening to Mr. Moto’s collection of jazz. Before departing, guests receive one more cipher, and if figured out, get to enjoy perks like early access to reservations and complimentary sake.
— Samuel, 22, OH (Cassandra Collective)
DANTES HIFI
The idea of building a bar around the enjoyment of vinyl records and high-fidelity audio gear is a staple of Tokyo nightlife culture but still relatively new in the U.S,. However, with the revival of vinyl has come the import of one of Japan’s most joyous yet under-the-radar experiences—the Kissa, or the listening bar where the audio experience takes center stage. One such listening room fueling the trend stateside is Miami’s Dante's HIFI, known for its spectacular sound system and incredible record collection. DJs take turns spinning songs from that collection, occasionally hopping on the mic to give context about what they’re playing to an intimate crowd of 50.
— Melissa, 23, FL (Cassandra Collective)
CLOVER HILL
Making a big impact on the world of fine dining is New York City chef Charlie Mitchell - the executive chef/co-owner of Clover Hill, who was Michelin’s 2022 New York Young Chef Award winner. Mitchell is the first Black chef in New York City history to achieve that status and the second Black executive chef in the country to receive the honor. Despite the recent accolades and perpetually full house (reservations are a must), their fun, refreshing approach to fine dining has quickly caught the attention of diners and critics alike with an eight-course tasting menu that regularly changes with the best seasonal foods available.