After graduating from Scots, I studied fashion and graphic design. Naturally, as a cultural hub for both fields, I graduated to New York City in 2005. A year later, I made the official move. I fell in love with the creative chaos the place thrived on. The story of how I got from there to now is a long story — best described over a long evening. It’s a story of adventure, really, I had the chance to work in design, fashion, photography, creative direction and hospitality in the dozen years I have lived here. After many years of combined experience, my partner Dylan and I teamed up with local hospitality talent to open a bar and restaurant in Chinatown. 

The Flower Shop is our baby — it’s a retro feeling multi-function venue. We were inspired by old Aussie pubs and American finished home basements. We want a ‘Cheers’ style escape where everyone is welcome and knows your name. We do that with a splash of Aussie cheekiness. We’re spread across two floors — with a full service restaurant below and a bar upstairs. We bring a locally sourced, and modern, pub menu together with an extensive and exciting natural wine list curated by our executive Chef Michael Hamilton. Downstairs is where you relax — we’ve got a full bar, pool table, fireplace, sunken living area, sports televisions and a jukebox. 

That’s difficult! If you’re spending twenty four hours in the Big Apple, you’re going to need to delay your flight because you’ll never get out in time. Always, always walk. There are so many interesting and eclectic neighborhoods in New York City. Pick a few you want to visit and see their restaurants, galleries and landmarks. You can soak up so much and absorb the energy of the place without feeling overwhelmed. Obviously, you also need to stop by The Flower Shop at least once in that 24 hours — it’s a Scots boys’ home away from home. 

It’s not going to be the end of the world if you miss the 3:36 pm train from Edgecliff Station.