This classic establishment lines the wall of the hotel facing Madison Avenue, which can be seen through stained glass windows behind the bar, and is a perfect place to sip an aperitif and watch hotel guests go about their business.

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"The only reason we sell is to fuel our ability to buy, " says David's son Helly, 29, who runs a gallery in the posh Carlyle Hotel on Madison Avenue. (Helly's cousin, also named Helly Nahmad after their grandfather Hillel in the Sephardic Jewish tradition, runs a gallery in London.) And while there is a cost to holding that inventory, the family's currency business helps support their art strategy.

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RESTAURANTS--GO, CONSIDER, STOP Reviews of noted New York City restaurants by various Forbes eatery experts. l Asia de Cuba--Morgans Hotel, 237 Madison Ave.

FORBES: Fact and Comment

Asia de Cuba--Morgans Hotel, 237 Madison Ave.

FORBES: Fact And Comment

Over in the Pines are the Hotel Ciel and the Madison Guest House, a luxurious bed and breakfast with a pool and only a few rooms.

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