TRAVEL GUIDE | CABANA TRAVEL | CABANA MAGAZINE

 

New York-based designer Ulla Johnson has carved out a unique place in fashion and homewares with her globally-inspired designs. As she launches her second tableware collaboration with Cabana, Ulla takes us further into her world, starting a little closer to home. Read on to discover Ulla's favourite places and spaces in Brooklyn.

 

BY ULLA JOHNSON | CABANA TRAVEL | 6 NOVEMBER 2024 

 

My Favorite Restaurant: Roman’s

I do love a proper Italian lunch. I’m such a creature of habit: I find my favorite places and then I’m very devoted. The other thing about Roman’s is that they don’t serve brunch — they don’t do fancy eggs or a hollandaise. It’s lunch, it’s delicious, there’s pasta, there’s meat. It’s wonderful and it’s quite leisurely.

My Favorite Museum or Gallery: The Brooklyn Museum

One of the oldest museums in the country, deservedly recognized as a trailblazer. Its programming is thoughtfully curated, centering creative expression within important dialogues of the day. We had the privilege of showing our SS23 runway show here.

My Favorite Cozy Pub or Bar: Sailor

It’s more of a restaurant and a newer addition to the neighborhood. Right on my corner, they have a beautiful small bar with charming booths. Reservations are hard to come by, but the bar is first come first served. An excellent back-up.

 

 

My Favorite Coffee Shop or Café: Thea

I love Thea. It's perfect for fantastic pastries and salads.

My Favorite Book Shop: Greenlight Bookstore

My whole family get lost here: everybody looks at their own little sections. It’s a great place to hang, so welcoming and plenty of space. I’m a literature freak. I read things with heavy subject matter; I read a lot of female authors. It’s an exciting time for literature, there’s so much good stuff out there. I’m constantly buying more books.

My Favorite Market: Greenmarket, Fort Greene

The Farmers' market outside Fort Greene park every Saturday is a dream - so much amazing produce and cheeses and breads. The market has a very fun vibe.

 

 

My Favorite Place to Stay: At Home!

I live in Fort Greene and have for the past 20 years; we have moved a few times but never far. It’s very verdant. I grew up in Manhattan, which is a much more urban setting, but my children have a different life. It’s a much more peaceful existence. 

My Favorite Thing to Do in Brooklyn: The Brooklyn Botanic Garden

A walk through The Brooklyn Botanic Garden with my family. I live close by and spend a lot of time here. It’s one of my very favorite places, at any time of year. The Rose Garden is magical in the spring and fall. The cherry blossoms and peony collection are divine. This is yet another show location, our first in-person show after the pandemic was held here, which was particularly meaningful and personal.

My Favorite Hidden Treasure: My garden!

Designed by Miranda Brooks, it’s my own personal oasis. I’m grateful for every moment I get to spend there.

 

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