Mark Kaplan’s Go-To Picks for Fine Art and Dining in NYC

As a longtime theater producer and director, Goldcrest’s Mark Kaplan knows what’s happening on Broadway. But he also has a keen interest in fine art and good food. Here he shares his thoughts on how to enjoy the best of New York’s incredible art world and recommends his favorite under-the-radar restaurants.

I love art. So, one of the first things I did when I moved to New York was become a member of major art museums. It’s a fascinating conceit when you think of it because these worldclass museums offer so much to members. One of the first museums I joined was the Whitney. It was an obvious choice because it's a block from Goldcrest. I bought a membership for four so other people in the office could go. It’s there for anyone's taking. I recently saw a fantastic exhibit on the American artist Henry Taylor. 

I also joined MOMA. Its permanent collection is exceptional, and it curates great exhibits. (I recently attended an amazing Ed Ruscha retrospective). One advantage of membership is there’s no waiting in line. Otherwise, it can take an hour or even two to get in.

The Guggenheim offers members-only hours on select Mondays. These are both art and social events. It’s a great way to avoid the crowds and meet people, especially if you are new in town.

I used my membership at The Met to attend a phenomenal exhibit contrasting the work of Manet and Degas. It was so good, I went twice. The Met holds Member Mornings every Saturday and Sunday from 9-10 before it opens to the public. It also hosts jazz concerts and other events. As a member, you have the luxury of enjoying the museum a little at a time, rather than trying to see it all in a day. Go for an hour or two and grab a drink or a coffee. It’s awesome.

I’m also a big fan of the city’s art galleries. The Chelsea gallery district, which spans 10 blocks (from 18th to 28th Streets, between 10th and 11th Avenues) is a great place to see the work of new and emerging artists. Attending gallery openings is a lot of fun. You bump into interesting people. I had the pleasure of being invited to an opening for Bernie Taupin, (Elton John’s lyricist), and met him, which was pretty cool. 

Turning from art to food, it’s been my mission to find the best pizza in New York. Sadly, 90 percent of the pizza I’ve tasted is awful. It’s perplexing since New York is famous for its dough and water. But I have found a few gems! If you’re in the West Village of Theater District, my two go-to places are Numero 28 Pizzeria and John’s of Bleeker Street. I’ve introduced friends to both places, and they always love it…and often return. Hand-tossed crusts, big slices, just what you’re looking for in a classic New York pizza. If you’re at Goldcrest, you must try SIMÒ. Simone Falco, the owner, brought his recipes for Napoli. They offer an incredible pizza called Quattro with four slices, each a different flavor. They also have a great tuna salad.

Other recommendations: 

P.S. Kitchen, a vegan restaurant in the Theater District. They have wonderful lasagna. You’d never know it was vegan. 

Dolly Varden a cocktail bar on 51st and Eighth. The food is good, and the drinks are great. 

Turco Mediterranean Grill a Turkish restaurant on Ninth at 41st. It’s a dive, but highly recommended. I’ve taken clients there and they’ve returned time and time again.

Butchers’ Daughter, a “plant-forward” vegetarian restaurant that started in Los Angeles and is now in Nolita and Williamsburg.

Sugarfish, my first choice for quality sushi. As a bonus, the price includes the tip.

And for dessert…

Max Brenner in the Village. The chocolate sampler plate is to die for. 

Serendipity is my standby. It’s so good that I stop myself from going too often.

Mark’s Latest Broadway Picks

Enemy of the People starring Jeremy Strong is coming to Circle in the Square for a limited run. I had the good fortune of seeing Ian McKellen and Stephen Moore in this play years ago. This production, a modern adaptation by Amy Herzog, is generating a lot of excitement.

I’m also looking forward to a revival of Tommy which is coming to the Nederlander Theatre after a successful run in Chicago. The production is directed by Des McAnuff, who co-wrote (with Pete Townshend) and directed the original 1993 Broadway version of the musical. It’s rare for a director to revisit a show after so many years. It should be very interesting!