We sat down with some of New York's most successful bachelors to find out where they hang out, what they're passionate about, and much more. Read their stories below and don't forget to vote for Gotham's most eligible bachelor here >>
ERICH BERGEN
Erich Bergen, who stars in Jersey Boys and Madame Secretary, in the Meatpacking District. Suit, Louis Vuitton ($3,660). 1 E. 57th St., 212-758-8877. Shirt, Bottega Veneta ($690). 23 E. 67th St., 212-879-5780
Your eyes may have adored Erich Bergen in Jersey Boys, but how do you get to know him in real life? The star of the recently debuted Madam Secretary shared details on the kind of person he’d croon to.
Ideal partner: “Someone who doesn’t take me, themselves, or life too seriously. I like people who are aware that life is over in the blink of an eye and can laugh through it.”
Coolest spot for an NYC date: “Birdland, the legendary jazz club on 44th Street. You get to hear the best musicians in the world and eat amazing food that’s way cheaper than it should be. It’s a really sexy room and ideal for a date, whether it’s your first or fourth.”
Best part of dating in NYC: “It’s the perfect town for spontaneity. Whatever you want to do, you can probably walk there.”
Most challenging? “You’ll probably run into your ex walking down the street.”
Proudest achievement: “Creating a life that enables me to get paid to do what I love. Show business is so fickle, but I have to remember I’ve actually achieved many of the goals I set for myself.”
Favorite causes: “I work with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. The folks over there have made this world a better place in countless ways.”
Where to find him: Joe Allen on 46th Street a couple of nights a week. “Even if I’m not seeing a show, I’ll throw on a sport coat and meet people at the restaurant. It makes me feel like I’m part of show business.”
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KRIS HABER
“There’s no shortage of fantastic people in New York,” says Kris Haber, a Midtown hedge-funder. Two-piece suit, Ermenegildo Zegna ($2,795). 663 Fifth Ave., 212-421-4488. Shirt, Dior Homme ($590). 17 E. 57th St., 212-931-2950. Tie, Salvatore Ferragamo ($190). 655 Fifth Ave., 212-759-3822. Tambour Essential Voyagez Brown Chronograph watch, Louis Vuitton ($9,000). 1 E. 57th St., 212-758-8877. Socks, Brooks Brothers ($20). 346 Madison Ave., 212-309-7765. Bruno Orlato lace-ups, Christian Louboutin ($895). 808 Washington St., 212-255-2056
When not tending to his day job as a partner at a Midtown hedge fund, Kris Haber produces independent films, kitesurfs, and goes the distance in grueling triathlons. “The level of excitement in extreme sports is like that in the finance industry,” explains the 40-something daredevil.
Ideal partner: “Someone who is confident, smart, and spontaneous, with a good sense of humor. An adventurer.”
Coolest spot for an NYC date? “I like Decibel, a small sake bar in the East Village. La Esquina, a Mexican place behind a taco stand in Soho, is good, too.”
Best part of dating in NYC? “There’s no shortage of fantastic people.”
Most challenging? “You meet a lot of people, but finding a real connection isn’t easy.”
Proudest achievement? “Being grounded. In New York, many people aren’t. Also, spending time with family and friends is something I cherish more than anything.”
Passions (besides work): “Producing independent films.”
Favorite causes: “World Wildlife Fund, the Museum of Modern Art, and Sanctuary for Families, which advocates for victims of domestic violence.”
Where to find him: Tethered to a kite, flying high above the waves off the coasts of the Dominican Republic, Mexico, East Hampton, or California or at Tough Mudder, the grueling, muck-filled race designed by British Special Forces.
For quieter moments: Perla and Il Buco Alimentari & Vineria at lunch, NeueHouse and Minetta Tavern after hours.
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JON LEVY
Always on the go, Jon Levy is known for his “influencers dinners” with city notables. Coat, Marc Jacobs ($2,545). 163 Mercer St., 212-343-1490. Sweater, Gucci ($685). 840 Madison Ave., 212-717-2619; mrporter.com. Jeans, Gustin ($81). Franciscan monk strap loafers, Allen Edmonds ($385). 24 E. 44th St., 212-682-3144. Sunglasses, Levy’s own
Nobody knows how to get a party going better than Jon Levy. The bon vivant is probably best known for his “influencers dinners,” which bring together groups of New York notables—from Stacy London to Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss—for a memorable meal at Levy’s palatial Upper West Side apartment. In his spare time, Levy travels the world, running with the bulls in Pamplona and partying with Kim Kardashian and Kanye West in Miami. Now he just needs someone to do it with.
Ideal partner: “A woman up for adventure! This includes having a current passport—who knows where we are going for lunch? She should also have an enthusiasm for speaking to strangers and can’t get starstruck. A major plus if she likes Doctor Who!”
Coolest spot for an NYC date: “JFK Airport, and it’s not because the Wolfgang Puck Express has such a great menu. New York is the center of the universe, so everything is just a quick flight away. Let’s have brunch in Soho and dinner in Reykjavik—it’s only a five-hour flight!”
Longest relationship: “Four years. Sometimes you have to accept that just because you love each other doesn’t mean you should be together.”
Best part of dating in NYC: “New York is home to some of the most extraordinary women in the world.”
Most challenging: “Extraordinary people, especially New Yorkers, are really busy. So the challenge is finding a time to get together.”
Favorite causes: “I’m committed to impacting child trafficking and abuse. I support Many Hopes, an organization that provides loving homes and education for abused children. I help by applying the latest in behavioral science to develop their programs.”
Where to find him: Bicycling the Loop in Central Park.
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MOSHEH OINOUNOU
“The news dictates my schedule,” says Mosheh Oinounou, an executive producer at CBS. Three-piece suit ($1,650) and tie ($125), Polo Ralph Lauren. 867 Madison Ave., 212-606-2100. Shirt, Brooks Brothers ($92). 346 Madison Ave., 212-309-7765. Pocket square, Salvatore Ferragamo ($140). 655 Fifth Ave., 212-759-3822. Railroad Small Second watch, Hamilton ($1,295). Hour Passion, 112 W. 34th St., 212-904-1002
Having risen through the ranks at CBS News in three short years, the Chicago native is on the brink of a new professional chapter as executive producer of the nascent CBS News streaming channel. Oinounou, 32, admits that work can be a “hindrance” to romance because “the news dictates my schedule.” But the history buff and self professed foodie will make time for the right woman. “I want to meet someone I can have interesting conversations with. We can teach each other about different things.”
Ideal partner: “Someone who is accomplished in her own right, shares my curiosity about everything, has a great sense of humor, and challenges me.”
Cool date spot: “I don’t know if it’s hip to go to rooftops, but I like the top of the James and Viceroy Hotels. It might be too forward to say, but my building has a nice view as well.”
Best part of dating in the city: “You can meet people from all over the world.”
Most challenging: “Despite its size, the city can feel lonely sometimes.”
Biggest achievement: “In the big picture, being part of the family that put together CBS This Morning, which has really changed what morning television should look like.”
Passions (besides work): Chicago sports teams, world travel (“I loved seeing Istanbul this winter”), and his 4 year-old nephew, Aiden (“When he’s old enough, he’s going to intern here”).
Favorite cause: The Jewish Federation.
Where to find him: His West Village neighborhood; enjoying Sunday brunch at Cafe Cluny; having drinks at The Jane hotel; getting his caffeine fix at Jack’s Coffee Shop.
KELLY G. GRIFFIN
“There are countless women in New York who don’t rest on ‘pretty,’” says Kelly G. Griffin. Tuxedo, Giorgio Armani ($3,895). 717 Fifth Ave., 212-207-1902. Evening shirt, Tom Ford ($750). 895 Madison Ave., 212-359-0300. Pocket square, Brunello Cucinelli ($165). 379 Bleecker St., 212-627-9202. Miles lace-ups, Jimmy Choo ($950). 407 Bleecker St., 212-366-1305. Watch, Griffin’s own
As senior director of music programming at BET, Kelly Griffin has left a significant stamp on pop culture, having brought recognition to hip-hop and R&B artists who went on to become superstars (think Lil Wayne and Kanye West). An even-keeled and elegant cultural inquisitor, Griffin lives to uncover great talent, connect on an intimate level, and give back to those in his life.
Ideal partner: “If a woman can expand my territory by opening me up to a side of life in this city I don’t often see—a museum, a charitable event, a Broadway show—then I’m into it.”
Coolest spot for an NYC date: “Sole di Capri, an intimate hole in the wall where the chef is literally six feet from where guests sit.”
Best part of dating in New York? “The diversity of people who are involved in so many amazing things. There are countless women who don’t rest on ‘pretty.’”
Most challenging? “When people have a narrow-minded view of life, or what love is supposed to be. I want someone who can inspire me, make me an even better man.”
Proudest achievement: “I was able to take my passion for music and create an amazing career through deejaying across the world, producing records, and identifying new and upcoming talent.”
Passions (besides work): “Discovering new things in this amazing city, as well as deejaying at some of the coolest spots in town. Sharing my passion for music is everything.”
Favorite causes: “My brother is the senior pastor at Oakdale Baptist Church in Chicago, and I admire what he is doing for the community. I’m also a huge supporter of Bishop T.D. Jakes and The Potter’s House ministry. I don’t leave my house in the morning without hearing an inspirational message from him.”
Where to find him: “Deejaying at some funky showcase in the city. Sundays I’m checking out DJ Tony Touch’s Funkbox [at Le Poisson Rouge]. [During the week I’m] holding court at the BET offices among superstars and future stars.”
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JARED SELIGMAN
Broker to the stars Jared Seligman says, “If you’re a passionate person, it’s hard to get along with someone who isn’t.” Coat, shirt, pants, scarf, and belt, Seligman’s own
“Broker to the Stars” Jared Seligman has found homes for Kirsten Dunst, Tommy Hilfiger, Steve Madden, and the Olsen twins, along with many other celebrities, racking up more than $750 million in sales along the way. The 27-year-old New York native and übersuccessful man-about-town is always on the go, but he makes sure to find time for favorite animal charities.
Ideal partner: “Someone who is smart and passionate. When you’re a passionate person, it’s hard to get along with someone who isn’t. Also, someone with a really good sense of values. And, of course, an animal lover.”
Coolest spot for an NYC date? “I like to go to less cool, more established places like The Carlyle, where you can focus on good conversation.”
Best part of dating in NYC? “There are so many opportunities [to meet people].” Most challenging: “The amount of choice can be very tempting. It’s hard to find someone with certain values.”
Secrets to his success: “I give 180 percent to anyone who steps into my office.”
Proudest achievement? “I hope that I’m a very good father to my animals. They’ve been a huge pride and joy. Also, client satisfaction.”
Favorite causes: “I avidly support Animal Haven, the Soho shelter, and work closely with underfunded organizations devoted to rescuing dogs from puppy mills.”
Where to find him: At lunch: Le Bilboquet and the Regency. After hours: Bemelmans Bar and the Marlton Hotel.
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RAPHAEL FRANCOIS
I like a woman who eats,” says Raphael Francois, executive chef at Le Cirque. Donegal suit jacket, Brooks Brothers Red Fleece ($498). 346 Madison Ave., 212-309-7765. Formal shirt ($630) and Tambour Blue Chronograph watch, ($7,100), Louis Vuitton. 1 E. 57th St., 212-758-8877. Tyler jeans, J.Brand ($196). Bloomingdale’s, 1000 Third Ave., 212-705-2000. Pocket square, John Varvatos ($198). 765 Madison Ave., 212-760-2414. Sneakers, Tom Ford ($790). 895 Madison Ave., 212-359-0300
When he's not cooking up some fabulous dish for the movers and shakers at Le Cirque, Executive Chef Raphael Francois is involved in a passionate new love affair—with Manhattan. Since moving to the city six months ago, Francois has spent the majority of his time exploring different neighborhoods. “There is so much to discover here,” says the 35-year old Frenchman.
An ideal partner would be… “Independent, openminded, adventurous, as well as a foodie, so I can spoil her with my cooking. I like a woman who eats.”
Best part of dating in New York? “All the great people. I like that American women are openminded and adventurous. They are assertive and go after what they want.”
Most challenging? “Everyone is very focused on his or her job.”
Biggest achievement to date? “Being a piece of the puzzle when we earned two Michelin stars at the Connaught Hotel in London, where I was executive chef.”
Passions (besides work): Running, biking, and cinema.
Favorite charities: “Food Bank for New York City and Share Our Strength. As a chef, I believe it is our duty to fight hunger and I support any like-minded organization.”
Where to find him: Running in Central Park and along the Hudson River, riding his bike in his Upper West Side neighborhood, and exploring Brooklyn. “I like Williamsburg and Fort Greene very much,” he says.
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JONATHAN KEIDAN
“Someone driven, but still curious,” says Jonathan Keidan of his ideal partner. Cable-knit cardigan, Etro ($1,674). 89 Greene St., 646-329-6929. Cashmere cardigan, Brunello Cucinelli ($1,070). 379 Bleecker St., 212-627-9202. Shirt, Burberry London ($250). 9 E. 57th St., 212-407-7100. Jeans, Rag & Bone Standard Issue ($175). 100-104 Christopher St., 212-727-2999. Epi belt, Louis Vuitton ($400). 1 E. 57th St., 212-758-8877
A clued-in renaissance man—whose website, insidehook.com, was voted the number-one online resource for the modern-day gent by Business Insider—Keidan is a prophetic seed investor (ZocDoc, Urban Compass, the AfroPunk Music Festival) and philanthropist. He’s also the venture advisor to Trigger Media, a devoted mentor to underprivileged boys, and a lover of all things artisanal.
Ideal partner: “Someone like-minded—driven, but still curious. My business overlaps with my passions. Being busy shouldn’t stop you from taking advantage of what life has to offer.”
Coolest spot for an NYC date: “I have InsideHook editors scouring for the best new places. Sometimes it’s mysterious and theatrical, like Queen of the Night. Other times it’s about walking to Morgenstern’s for ice cream. That place will change your life.”
Best part of dating in New York? “I like to explore, and I love beautifully made items, beautifully prepared food, anything with an artisanal element. This city is perfect for identifying that kind of passion.”
Most challenging? “A lot of my friends line up dates, which seems exhausting. I’d prefer to meet someone organically, through one of my charities. If I’m going to spend some time with someone, I want to be excited.”
Proudest achievement: “When I hear from guys that Inside-Hook is something that’s improving their lives, that’s super gratifying.”
Passions (besides work): “Music, investing, spending time with the participants in my charities, and seeking out the next great offerings in NYC and abroad.”
Favorite causes: All Star Code, a nonprofit that runs coding workshops for minority boys and fosters diversity in the tech industry. “I was also a founder of the Bronx 1 Success Academy, a charter school giving underprivileged children access to world-class education. We will have almost 500 students in grades K through 5 in next year’s class.”
Where to find him: Running on the West Side along the river.
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