Out With Dr. Bill: February Magic – Blink and You Miss It

February was a whirlwind–so fast, I must have blinked and suddenly found myself at the end of the month! Living in New York means there's never a dull moment, and this month was no exception. From chance encounters with longtime friends to milestone celebrations, intimate dinner parties, and nights filled with music, laughter, and a touch of glitter, it was a month to remember.

I caught up with the ever-fabulous Richie Rich at Elmo, toasted Huxley Hogeboom's big 5-0 at the Equinox Hotel, indulged in an unforgettable Southeast Asian feast at a loft dinner party with Aleks Zestali, and danced the night away at Lina's Lounge at Cafeteria. And let's not forget a magical birthday bash at The Stonewall Inn and a cherished afternoon with the legendary Marisa Berenson. With so many stories to tell, the hardest part wasn't the writing–it was choosing which moments to write about!

Chinese New Year at the Townhouse

I kicked off the month by ringing in Chinese New Year–also known as Chunjie or the Spring Festival–with friends at one of the city's only piano bars, The Townhouse on 58th, a truly elegant Upper East Side gem that's as delightfully classic as it is unforgettable. A longtime staple in my life, this stylish townhouse-turned-gentlemen's club was recently refreshed with new wallpaper, upholstery, carpeting, and more by the award-winning interior designer, and fellow Fire Island regular, Walter Cartier.

My friend Rick and I often joke that while we never bought a cocktail for ourselves at The Townhouse in our early days, now that we've joined the "daddy" league, we're the ones standing around the piano singing showtunes and picking up the tab. To my younger friends: cherish your youth–soon enough, you'll be buying the drinks.

Amid witty banter and clinking glasses, one of the guests tapped me on the shoulder and asked me to toast the Chinese New Year. I turned to see a young man decked out in full festive attire. I captured the moment on my iPhone, and he proudly admitted he'd lifted the ensemble straight from his mother's closet. Loved it!

Club Kid Reunion in Elmo: Richie Rich

I ran into my longtime friend, Richie Rich, at Elmo earlier this month and was beyond thrilled to discover he's now living just a block away (our neighborhood just got a serious upgrade in fabulousness). Richie, the iconic designer behind Heatherette and a true legend from the Club Kid days, is as vibrant, creative, and full of energy as ever. As we caught up, we couldn't help but reminisce about the good old days, and I recalled the time I attended one of his fashion shows and ended up sitting next to Debbie Harry who, in true Blondie fashion, was effortlessly cool and oozed that rock-and-roll edge that made me feel like I was sharing a moment with music royalty.

Golden Soirée: Huxley's 50th

It's always an honor to celebrate a friend's milestone birthday, and Eric and I were especially grateful to be included in Huxley Hogeboom's fabulous 50th. The golden celebration took place at the ultra-stylish Equinox Hotel, a five-star urban oasis in Hudson Yards. With breathtaking views from the 25th floor, the setting provided a stunning backdrop for the occasion.

The choice of venue was especially meaningful to Huxley, as he served as head of architecture for Equinox Hotels and played a key role in its opening in Hudson Yards.
It was such a treat to see so many familiar faces come together for what Huxley playfully coined his semicentennial. I loved catching up with Huxley's partner Jeff Silverstein, David Lam, Michael Fernandez, Joel Salazar, and especially Evan Goetz–who proved his true friendship by flying in from Los Angeles, where he and David spend part of the year, just to raise a glass to Huxley. Now that's dedication!

From the moment we opened the invitation, we knew we were in for something special. The beautifully designed, gold-inspired invite read Huxley's Five-O and promised a cocktail kiki with drinks + fries (because, of course, cocktails and fries belong together). The dress code? Fashion-y cocktail attire + a touch of gold. And while most guests embraced the theme with shimmering accents, I–true to form–missed a key detail. Had I actually read the invite in full, I would have arrived draped in gold lamé instead of playing it safe in my classic New York black. Shame on me for not paying attention. That said, black is always a solid choice for a city soirée, and a few well-placed gold accessories kept me from being a total fashion rebel.

The night was an absolute blast–filled with laughter, love, and a little extra sparkle, just like Huxley himself.

Chelsea Chic: Gourmet Soirée with Aleks & Friends

I love a good neighborhood party–especially when it's just a short walk away and set in a stunning loft. There's something special about being surrounded by great friends, amazing food, and that effortless New York energy that makes a night memorable.

So, when Aleks Zestali–wildly talented clothing designer, former restaurateur in Hong Kong, and, let's be honest, a man who could easily be on the cover of GQ–invited us over, I knew we were in for a treat. He arrived with his equally handsome husband, Russell, and then worked his magic in the kitchen, turning out a feast of his favorite Southeast Asian dishes.

We savored Beef Rendang, a rich, slow-cooked Indonesian dry curry packed with aromatic spices and coconut milk that was so tender it practically melted on the plate; Gado-Gado, a vibrant Indonesian salad of blanched vegetables, tofu, and hard-boiled eggs drizzled with a creamy peanut sauce; Yum Som-O, a Thai pomelo salad bursting with juicy citrus, shrimp, crispy shallots, and the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy; Gỏi Gà, a refreshing Vietnamese chicken salad with shredded chicken, crunchy cabbage, fragrant herbs, and a bright, tangy nuoc cham dressing; and Khao Man Gai, Thailand's beloved take on Hainanese chicken rice, featuring poached chicken so tender it practically fell apart, served over garlic-ginger rice with an umami-packed dipping sauce that I could have eaten by the spoonful.

Each dish was a work of art, crafted with the same attention to detail that Aleks brings to his fashion designs. Watching him cook was like witnessing an artist in his element–effortless, stylish, and completely in control.

Huge thanks to our effortlessly cool host, Rodrigo Salem, the mastermind behind Found Collectables, New York's go-to for premier Brazilian mid-century furniture. With incredible food, great friends, and a spectacular setting, this wasn't just a party–it was an experience to never forget!

Where Chelsea Comes Alive: Lina's Lounge at Cafeteria

Nothing says Friday night in Chelsea quite like a visit to Cafeteria, where Lina's Lounge transforms the space into a captivating slice of New York nightlife. Eric and I arrived to find Lina Bradford–more than just a DJ, a truly New York institution–commanding the turntables.

Straight from the golden era of nightlife, her electric presence and effortlessly chic style bring together eras and genres, keeping the dance floor alive. Lina's energy isn't confined to the DJ booth; as an actress, radio personality, and the creative force behind In the Dollhouse with Lina, she uses her platform to champion causes dear to her heart.

Whether she's spinning tracks or serving as a board member for the Hetrick-Martin Institute, and a chair member for GMHC, one thing remains clear: where Lina is, the energy is undeniable.

Later that night, several of our Fire Island friends joined us, adding even more vibrancy to the scene. Among the crowd was a handsome young man in his twenties, in town for Fashion Week. With a poetic soul, he casually mentioned his passion for writing, and at one point, lifted his shirt to reveal washboard abs and a tattoo bearing a quote inspired by Homer's "Odyssey." His youthful confidence and inspiring spirit were a vivid reminder of the serendipity of New York; how, when you go out on the town, life can present you with the most unexpected, memorable encounters.

New Kid on the Block: KID Serves Up Homey Delights

KID has quickly become one of our favorite neighborhood spots–just steps from our apartment, yet it always feels like a special escape. Last week, Philip, Matthew, Eric, and I gathered there for dinner, and, as always, it was nothing short of fantastic.
From the moment we walked in, the space felt warm and familiar. The open kitchen buzzed with energy, and the staff–many from KID's sister spot, Motel Morris–made us feel like regulars. We started with their towering Caesar salad, followed by a perfect pepperoni pizza, a massive half-chicken with buttery beans, and, for dessert, a giant black-and-white cookie with soft serve. Every bite was indelible.

Halfway through our meal, a storm rolled in. By the time we stepped outside, the streets were blanketed in snow. I hadn't realized a storm was coming and had worn leather dress shoes–terrible for snow–but thankfully, home was only a few steps away. It was the perfect end to a great night: a cozy dinner with good friends, followed by a short, snowy walk back home.

Tilli's Magical Stonewall Night

This month was packed with birthdays, including Jon Tilli's, who chose the iconic upstairs lounge at The Stonewall Inn to host what he called his "Magical Birthday Party"–and honestly, what better place? I've always loved The Stonewall Inn–not just for its history (forever etched as the epicenter of the 1969 Stonewall Riots that ignited the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement), but also for the intimate energy of its upstairs bar. Whether it's a birthday, fundraiser, or simply an excuse to bring good people together, the space always pulses with community and celebration. Unlike the bustling main floor, the upstairs area has that secret club feel: part speakeasy, part underground party, and completely, unapologetically queer.

Jon's events always attract a bevy of handsome guys of all ages, include shirtless jell-shot boys. That night, one of our beloved favorites, Rob Shmalo–one of the nicest people I've ever met–was in attendance. Jon's events always attract a bevy of handsome guys of all ages, including shirtless Jell-O shot boys. That night, one of our beloved favorites, Rob Shmalo–one of the nicest people I've ever met–was in attendance, indulging in Jell-O offerings and flashing his infectious smile.

The highlight, however, was the featured performer, Prada G. Major, a drag artist of the highest caliber, possessing both talent and heart. I love that Prada is not only a show-stopping queen but also a steadfast philanthropist, having raised tens of thousands of dollars for multiple sclerosis research through her now-annual "Don't M.S. with Major" fundraiser benefiting the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Multiple sclerosis simply doesn't hold this queen back. And when not in full drag regalia, Nick Simpson–her offstage identity–lives by the mantra, "Counteract negatives with positives," a motto we can all embrace, especially in today's tumultuous America.
As if one star in the room weren't enough, our beloved Lina Bradford jumped on the turntables after Prada's set, spinning her signature mix of beats that had everyone dancing into the night. It was an absolutely magical evening in the Village–just as Jon had promised.

Reunited with an It Girl: The Legendary Marisa Berenson Back NYC

One of the most heartfelt moments of my month was reconnecting with my longtime friend, Marisa Berenson. We shared a lovely lunch at Dowling's at The Carlyle, just before she flew back to Marrakesh. Following our meal, during a quiet Earl Grey moment, I surprised her with a pre-birthday dessert, complete with a single candle–an intimate touch that made the afternoon even more special.

Marisa was in New York for just 48 hours, in town for a photoshoot with Steven Meisel–though, of course, she couldn't reveal any details. Spending that precious time together, just before her birthday, was a true delight.

For those who may not be familiar, Marisa is one of the original "It Girls." Like Twiggy and Edie Sedgwick, she embodies an effortless blend of beauty, style, and rebellious spirit. The granddaughter of legendary designer Elsa Schiaparelli, she broke into modeling in the sixties with a little help from Diana Vreeland, quickly capturing the attention of icons like Avedon, Penn, and Newton. Her enduring allure has made her a cultural icon whose influence continues to inspire generations.

As for Steven Meisel, I've admired his work since my days at Vogue, and I fondly remember his collaboration with Marisa on "Marisa Berenson: A Life in Pictures"–a stunning 240-page collection of fashion editorials, magazine covers, and candid photographs by some of the world's greatest photographers. I'm honored to be featured in that book, which includes a memorable photo of Marisa and me from an event at Saks Fifth Avenue over two decades ago–a small yet meaningful token of our shared history.

February's Fast-Forward Reel

As February nears its end, I'm reminded of how quickly time moves when it's filled with unforgettable moments. This month has been a beautiful blur of reunions, celebrations, and spontaneous encounters–the kind that can only happen in New York. Whether catching up with old friends, toasting milestones, indulging in incredible meals, or dancing the night away, each experience has been a reminder of the vibrant, ever-evolving community I'm lucky to be part of. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that life is best measured not in days, but in the stories, we collect along the way. And this month? It's already one for the books.