Granny Chic Meets Topanga Canyon Cool In This Colorful Eagle Rock Bungalow

Bungalow, located at 24 1st Ave., New York, NY, is a contemporary Indian restaurant that has been recognized with a Bib Gourmand award by the MICHELIN Guide, signifying good quality and good value cooking. Helmed by Chef Vikas Khanna, the establishment offers a distinctive dining experience in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior is characterized by pale pink walls, vibrant murals, and a bar featuring intricate carved panels, creating an aesthetically pleasing setting. Securing a table at Bungalow can be challenging, as the restaurant is frequently bustling, and many diners line up early in hopes of getting a walk-in spot, given that reservations are not available through the MICHELIN Guide's platform. The culinary journey at Bungalow begins with a selection of unique cocktails, which incorporate innovative ingredients such as turmeric-infused tequila and chili-infused mezcal. The menu focuses on contemporary Indian cuisine, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary traditions from India's 28 states. This approach allows for a broad exploration of regional flavors and techniques, moving beyond more commonly known Indian dishes. Standout items highlighted by the MICHELIN Guide include the five-cheese kulcha, a stuffed flatbread, and yogurt kebabs. These kebabs are wrapped in crispy kataifi pastry and served with a bright pickled cabbage puree and a spicy mango coulis, illustrating the kitchen's creative and skillful execution. Bungalow operates from Tuesday to Sunday, opening at 5 PM and closing at 11 PM, with Mondays being its day off. The restaurant accepts various payment methods, including American Express, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa credit cards, as well as debit cards. While it falls under the '$$$' price range, categorized as suitable for a 'Special occasion' by the MICHELIN Guide, its Bib Gourmand status implies that it offers excellent value for the quality of food provided. The restaurant is also noted as being family-friendly and is currently trending, further indicating its popularity among diners. Facilities and services include air conditioning. The restaurant is positioned within the New York State, New York area, specifically in a location accessible to a variety of nearby dining and lodging options. The MICHELIN Guide review for Bungalow was published on December 9, 2024, by a Michelin Inspector, who praised the chef's independent venture and the vibrant atmosphere. #MichelinGuide #BibGourmand #IndianCuisine #NewYorkRestaurants #ChefVikasKhanna #ContemporaryIndian #NYC

The article details the renovation of the Retreat at the Olive Grove, a 4,200-square-foot property near Little Rock designed to function as a vacation rental for groups. Kal and Becca Swarna, the owners and operators of Simplified Hosting, purchased the three-story house two years ago. The property features five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, a great room with a fireplace, a library, and a den, and offers panoramic views of its seven-acre surroundings. The renovation, initially projected for three months, extended to a year due to unforeseen challenges and a deliberate decision to enhance the property's quality as a future rental. The Swarnas aimed to create a unique space by moving away from conventional design, focusing on the home's existing features and integrating new elements. Becca Swarna, drawing on her design expertise and Kal Swarna's construction skills, spearheaded the transformation. The initial phase of the renovation addressed the front entrance, which was previously a mudroom with an unwelcoming door. They replaced the original door with 8-foot French doors to establish a more grand and inviting entry point. Throughout the house, additional lighting and lamps were strategically installed to create a warmer and more welcoming ambiance for guests arriving, potentially after dark. Inside, the home boasts 20-foot-tall ceilings, and while some walls were removed to open up spaces, others were retained to provide distinct areas for privacy and relaxation. Becca's design philosophy centers on selecting one inspirational piece per room and aligning the decor with it. For the Retreat at the Olive Grove, the entire renovation drew inspiration from the olive tree, influencing both the aesthetic and color palette. Considering the target demographic of large groups, the kitchen was outfitted with high-end appliances, including a FiveStar stove featuring six gas burners, a griddle, a grill, and dual fuel ovens. A large window was installed over the sink, allowing the cook to enjoy the outdoor views. Sherwin-Williams’ Greek Villa paint was chosen for the walls to create a balance between modern aesthetics and a warm, inviting atmosphere. In the primary bedroom, the back of the living room fireplace was updated with a modern Ambe corner fireplace, complemented by comfortable seating and luxurious bedding. Becca's passion for color and texture, honed during her time in India, influenced material selections. A significant investment in the renovation was the installation of durable and timeless bamboo flooring throughout the house. The primary bathroom underwent a complete overhaul, with a focus on dramatic tiling. A particularly notable feature is the expansive double shower, which was extended to 98 inches to fit the wall, eliminating the need for custom ordering. Becca initially presented the idea of a shiny black herringbone tile pattern for the back wall to Kal, acknowledging its complexity. Despite the challenge, Kal meticulously measured and laid the tile, resulting in a perfectly executed design. To balance the boldness of the black herringbone, a more neutral mixed white tile was used for the remaining walls. All tiles were sourced from Bedrosians. Outdoors, the focus was on enhancing the seven-acre property with attractive seating areas. New decking and several balconies were added to encourage guests to enjoy the natural surroundings. A fire pit, built with brick edgers, and patio lights were installed to extend outdoor enjoyment into the evening. Becca emphasizes practical tips for home renovation: choosing a focal point, adding ample lighting, selecting paint colors that resonate with the space, and allocating part of the budget for unexpected costs. She also suggests incorporating pops of color like mustard yellow, navy blue, and Rosemary green by Sherwin-Williams. The Swarnas’ venture, Simplified Hosting, leverages their combined talents to revitalize existing spaces, offering properties that aim to provide a sense of relief and comfort upon entry. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #VacationRental #HomeDecor #DIYProjects #OliveGrove #LittleRock #SimplifiedHosting #ModernHome

Kaitlin Weaver, the owner of Bungalow on 2nd, a chic boutique in Lewes, Delaware, discusses the inspiration and evolution of her business. Weaver nurtured the idea of owning a boutique for years, meticulously compiling a list of products and brands. She officially opened Bungalow on 2nd in September 2018, curating a diverse collection of apparel, accessories, beauty products, and home décor items. Her selection process prioritizes unique finds, often sourced from trade shows or online platforms, with a particular emphasis on supporting other small, women-owned businesses. The store's aesthetic is characterized as a blend of bohemian and feminine styles. Weaver highlights the current summer trends available at Bungalow on 2nd, noting a resurgence in demand for occasion dresses suitable for events ranging from daytime weddings to evening outings. Key fashion trends include puff sleeves, button detailing, floral prints, and textured fabrics. For accessories, rattan handbags and printed bandanas are prominent. In the home décor, gifts, and fragrances categories, the boutique offers botanical prints and items designed for outdoor living, such as vases, garden kits, shears, and candles. Additionally, they provide items for summer entertaining, including cookbooks and cocktail kits. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the operational aspects of Bungalow on 2nd, necessitating adaptability. One major development resulting from the pandemic was the establishment of an online retail presence, allowing customers to purchase items through the store's website. The pandemic also influenced the store's buying strategy, shifting focus from items for social outings to more comfort-oriented apparel suitable for at-home wear and virtual meetings. Weaver expresses profound gratitude for the recognition received in the "Best of Delaware" awards. She views this acknowledgment as a significant honor, validating the hard work and dedication invested in the business, particularly after a challenging year. This recognition not only signifies appreciation for the shop's vision but also serves as an opportunity to broaden awareness of Bungalow on 2nd among a wider audience. #BungalowOn2nd #LewesDelaware #Boutique #BohoStyle #CoastalFashion #WomenOwnedBusiness #SummerTrends #RetailAdaptability #BestOfDelaware

Maggie Griffin, an interior designer, found her charming 1940s cottage in Gainesville, Georgia, and immediately fell in love with its historic appeal. The house, with its original features, small rooms, and quirky ceilings, perfectly fit her design philosophy of mixing old and new. Maggie's passion for items with history is evident throughout her home, which is filled with inherited pieces like an antique secretary and settee, alongside modern elements such as lucite and parsons tables. Her approach creates a warm and welcoming environment that reflects her personal style. Upon moving into the Gainesville cottage, Maggie and her husband, David, made minimal cosmetic changes. They focused on refreshing the space with new paint, countertops, and a few faucets, maintaining the integrity of the home's original character. The previous homeowner, who shares a friendship with Maggie, had impeccable taste, which facilitated a smooth transition. The cottage's curb appeal, characterized by painted brick, a charming side addition, a gable roof over the front door, and single-pane windows, embodies the quintessential cottage style that Maggie admires. Inside, the original floors and slanted ceilings on the second floor further enhance the cozy, historic atmosphere. Maggie's keeping room, located off the kitchen and breakfast area, serves as the central hub of her home. This multi-purpose space is designed for family gatherings and features a mix of antique market finds and contemporary pieces. The Thibaut wallpaper adds a touch of happiness, and layered rugs provide depth. The breakfast table and server were sourced from Scott’s Antiques, while the chairs are from Serena & Lily. A settee, inherited from her maternal grandmother, has been re-covered in velvet, adding a layer of family history to the room. An acrylic coffee table from Amazon.com offers a practical, easy-to-clean surface, ideal for a home with a young child. The kitchen, though previously remodeled, received Maggie's personal touch. She painted the cabinets and island, incorporating a wooden countertop for warmth and swapping perimeter counters for granite. This blend of finishes and the natural light from a large window over the sink contribute to the kitchen's inviting ambiance. The exterior also received attention, with shutters painted in Benjamin Moore’s “Herbal Escape,” complementing the vibrant spring blooms of her ten bright pink peony bushes, which bring Maggie joy each summer. Outdoor living is a significant part of the Griffins' lifestyle. From April to October, all meals are enjoyed on their back porch, which is furnished with a comfortable sectional for watching football games and a farm table from Scott’s, paired with easy-to-clean metal chairs. This space is designed for entertaining, accommodating both adult dinner parties and neighborhood playdates, and even hosted over 150 guests for a Halloween gathering. The master bedroom showcases Maggie's affinity for blue and white, with the design originating from a remnant bolt of "La Grenade" fabric by Bailey & Griffin, used for the bed skirt. Nightstands, acquired from a friend’s mother, were painted in Benjamin Moore’s “Half Moon Crest.” A custom upholstered headboard, inspired by Bunny Williams, and a bench from Scott’s with a leopard-print cushion from Lewis & Sheron further personalize the space. The bedding combines elements from Pine Cone Hill and Serena & Lily, alongside a custom bolster. An upstairs sitting room features original pine paneling and flooring, creating a charming den for guests. A camelback sofa, inherited from her paternal grandmother, is recovered in navy velvet. A hand-me-down ottoman and bobbin chairs from Pier 1, re-covered in fabric from Scott’s, complete the seating arrangement. The room also includes an IKEA jute rug layered with an antique store find, and a gallery wall displaying a mix of collected art, personal creations, and pieces from artist friends. Her son Henry’s room, located off the breakfast room, features a sophisticated look with Schumacher linen on the headboard and elephant art by Erika Lackey. A dark-blue chest from Scott’s Antique Market, framed alphabet book pages, and discarded turtle shells decorate the space, reflecting a blend of whimsy and personal history. Henry's bathroom includes Schumacher wallpaper, gray-painted trim and vanity, a Target turtle shell, and antique silver canapé dishes with the New Orleans crest. Maggie's background in furnishings and interiors, influenced by her chic grandmothers and mother, led her to a career in design. Her early experiences at Heery’s Too!, a high-end home furnishings gift shop, allowed her to transition from assisting shoppers with small decorative tasks to managing larger design projects, establishing her career as an interior designer who cherishes history and mixes it with modern sensibilities to create unique, inviting homes. #HomeFeatures #InteriorDesign #CottageStyle #AntiqueDecor #HomeDecoration #GainesvilleGeorgia #MaggieGriffinDesign #OldMeetsNew #FamilyHome

Bungalow by Middle Brow, located at 2840 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL, is a brewpub that emphasizes its Midwestern roots and commitment to local sourcing. Co-owned by Pete Ternes, Polly Nevins, and Bryan Grohnke, the establishment prides itself on using ingredients and products exclusively from within a 150-mile radius, notably excluding items from France, California, or Argentina. This local-first approach extends to all aspects of their offerings, including beer, wines, and various food items such as sourdough pizza. The brewpub is recognized for its inviting and casual ambiance, characterized by a well-lit, open, loft-style design that is also considered Instagram-friendly. The interior decor features barrels lining the walls, providing diners with a direct view of the beer fermentation process, which highlights the transparency and artisanal nature of their brewing operations. The menu at Bungalow by Middle Brow offers a range of casual dining options. Guests can enjoy a bagel, a milk-bun breakfast sandwich, various pastries, and, of course, their signature sourdough pizza. These food items are complemented by a selection of ice-cold local beers, reinforcing the restaurant's dedication to regional products. Chef Pete Ternes's culinary background heavily influences the beer brewing process, with Diana Dávila noting that he understands how to 'season a beer,' equating brewing to a chef's approach to cooking. The article highlights specific menu recommendations, including the Tavern Pizza, exclusively available for dine-in on Tuesdays. This sourdough pizza is described as having a no-flop crust that cracks with every bite, indicating a desirable texture. Another recommended item is the Sourdough Bread served with butter and sardines. This bread is praised for its golden-brown crust and a fluffy, nutty interior that is notably not crumbly, providing a simple yet perfect pairing with butter and sardines. The Big Salad is also mentioned as a shareable option, featuring a simple vinaigrette and a seasonal rotation of fresh vegetables. This establishment exemplifies a modern approach to comfort food and craft beverages, deeply rooted in the local agricultural landscape. The focus on hyper-local ingredients ensures freshness and supports regional producers, contributing to a distinctive dining experience in Chicago. The transparent brewing process, visible to customers, adds an educational and engaging dimension to the brewpub's atmosphere, fostering a connection between the consumer and the craft behind their food and drink. The described menu items reflect a blend of classic comfort foods with an emphasis on quality and local sourcing, catering to a diverse clientele seeking both familiarity and novelty in their culinary choices. #AmericanMidwesternCuisine #Brewpub #ChicagoRestaurants #LocalSourcing #SourdoughPizza #CraftBeer #CasualDining #FarmToTable