Exploring the Boutique Circle of Prestigious Social Circles within the American Elite
Exclusive Private Clubs Shaping the City's Social Landscape
In the heart of New York City, a new wave of private clubs is redefining the city's social scene. One such club, Zero Bond, nestled in NoHo, is making headlines for its distinctive approach and illustrious membership.
Rumours abound that Casa Cipriani, located in Lower Manhattan, is seeking a cooler clientele and has reportedly kicked out members responsible for leaking pictures of celebrities. In contrast, Zero Bond, with its 20,000-square-foot space, caters to New York City's new ruling class, offering an allure that is difficult to resist.
Zero Bond prides itself on its membership being by referral and vetting, with no publicly available detailed lists of founders. The club's unwritten rule, "What happens at Zero Bond stays at Zero Bond," adds to its mystique. Membership isn't about money, according to Alexandra, a member of Soho House, another exclusive club known for its creative clientele. One cannot buy their way into Zero Bond.
The club's membership is predominantly downtown power brokers from various industries, including asset management, professional sports, and tech. Famous rumoured members include Taylor Swift, Gigi Hadid, and Josh Kushner. Despite its exclusivity, there is no dress code at Zero Bond, offering a more relaxed atmosphere compared to traditional private clubs.
Zero Bond stands out with its unique offerings, such as comedy nights and theme parties. These clubs, along with the new crop of private clubs like San Vicente Bungalows in Los Angeles and Colette Club in New York City, offer a next-gen alternative to the more stodgy private clubs of the past.
While Zero Bond does not disclose comprehensive founder information to the public, it is evident that these new private clubs are moving away from the legacy and royal blood that once held significant influence in gaining membership to these exclusive clubs. For instance, no one's grandfather belonged to Zero Bond, indicating a shift towards a more meritocratic approach.
The appeal of these private clubs extends beyond the exclusive dining and relaxation opportunities they offer. They bypass the reservations game at popular restaurants, providing members with a level of exclusivity that is hard to find elsewhere. At Remedy Place, a wellness-focused club, members can receive personalised IV infusions or use hyperbaric oxygen chambers for calls. Members of the Aman Club at the Aman New York Hotel have access to a popular jazz club and a world-class spa.
In cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami, these private clubs have become increasingly popular. With their exclusive offerings and mysterious allure, they are shaping the city's social landscape, offering an experience that is as elusive as it is alluring.
Additional reporting for this article was provided by Tatiana Boncompagni. It is worth noting that some clubs, like Aman, require an initiation fee of $200,000, a comparable expense to Hamptons golf club dues for the people who join. Despite their exclusivity, these private clubs continue to attract a diverse and influential clientele, making them a significant player in the city's social scene.
