Today
Out with Dr. Bill – Inspiring Nights: Advocacy, Fashion & Friendship
Dr. William Kapfer READ TIME: 15 MIN.
From Tucson to The Perry Club: A Night with Daniel Hernández
Source: William Kapfer
The last highlight I want to share was the East Coast reunion with my longtime friend Daniel Hernández during his visit to New York. An openly gay Latino and passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, Daniel has served on Tucson's City Commission on GLBT Issues and represented Legislative District 2 in the Arizona House of Representatives alongside Rosanna Gabaldón.
We began our evening with drinks at Elmo, my favorite local watering hole in Chelsea. Sitting at the bar provided the perfect opportunity for catching up. Afterward, we walked down the street to dine at The Perry Club, a charming Italian restaurant located on Seventh Avenue South between Perry Street and Waverly Place in the heart of the West Village. Owned by Brandon Fay, whom I've known for over two decades, The Perry Club is renowned for its fresh, in-house pasta and signature thin-crust pizzas, each uniquely shaped and crafted with a blend of five different cheeses.
Brandon, who appeared on "Shark Tank" (Season 11, Episode 17), secured a deal with Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban for $150,000 in exchange for 30% equity in his previous venture, Pasta by Hudson. His passion for Italian cuisine shines through in every dish at The Perry Club. During our meal, Brandon introduced us to his playful new creation – caviar on Pringles – a delightful fusion of luxury and nostalgia that perfectly encapsulates his innovative approach to dining.
What I've always loved most about The Perry Club is its open pasta kitchen, where patrons can observe the meticulous preparation of fresh pasta and pizza dough made daily. Eric and I always sit at the counter in front of the chef, captivated by watching the culinary artists at work.
Downstairs, The Perry Club features two speakeasy-style rooms, La Cisterna and Il Grottino, reminiscent of a 1500s European grotto. Under the Tuscan skylight at one of the bars, guests can enjoy a curated selection of Italian varietals from the extensive wine menu. The downstairs seating is always bustling.
Our evening was filled with laughter, heartfelt conversation, and exceptional cuisine, reminding me of the deep connections I cherish with friends, no matter where we meet.
The combination of Daniel's inspiring dedication to advocacy and Brandon's culinary artistry made for an unforgettable night that celebrated both friendship and the vibrant spirit of New York's dining scene.
Inspiration Through Community, Creativity, and Progress
Looking back on everything I've had the privilege to experience recently – from honoring advocates for inclusion to celebrating visionary leaders in fashion, to reconnecting with dear friends – I'm reminded of how these moments of community, creativity, and progress inspire us all to keep pushing for a brighter, more inclusive future.
