Lisa Karvellas is one half of the sister duo behind Cedar Lakes Estates in upstate New York—a serene escape where charming cottages, a modern barn, and curated event spaces blend effortlessly with nature. Growing up on the property—which once housed Camp Minisink and later a Team USA Gymnastics and Soccer Camp run by her parents—Karvellas developed an early appreciation for the restorative power of the outdoors. After years honing her expertise in New York City’s hospitality scene, she returned home to co-found Cedar Lakes Estates with her sister, Stephanie. A destination that balances elegance with the warmth of a retreat followed.
Whitewall spoke with Karvellas to discover the spots she loves to visit when she’s in town, from people watching at the Carlyle Hotel to walking down East End Avenue.
Courtesy of Cedar Lakes Estates.
WHITEWALL: What’s the best spot to find inspiration in New York?
LISA KARVELLAS: Of course, the young, hip energy of downtown is always fun, but I have to say spending a weekend at The Carlyle Hotel and exploring that section of Madison Avenue on the Upper East Side inspires me most — it is quintessentially New York. Only there do you still see chic women in fur coats, who never leave the house without applying their lipstick. It’s timeless, a little nostalgic, and endlessly inspiring—it’s where I go to soak up a chic vibe that will never go out of style.
WW: Where’s the best off-the-beaten-path spot to see art in New York?
LK: The Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse. For me, architecture is art, and these shows are a masterclass in marrying the past with the present. The way historic spaces in Brooklyn are reimagined with bold, modern design feels like a conversation between eras—and that kind of creative dialogue always sparks fresh ideas for me. It’s a reminder that honoring history doesn’t mean standing still; it’s about letting the past inform and inspire what’s next.
Courtesy of Cedar Lakes Estates.
WW: What’s one of your best-kept secrets in New York?
LK: I have two! East End Avenue. My husband grew up on this street and I am always amazed by its quiet charm. It’s a hidden gem—peaceful and beautiful, with a boardwalk and huge gorgeous park overlooking the East River. It feels like stepping into a different city entirely, and no one’s there unless they live nearby. You can literally cross the street without looking, which is unheard of in Manhattan!
Roman’s in Brooklyn. Roman’s, to me, is a perfect restaurant. Amazing food, great vibes, and the best part? You can actually get a table. It’s unpretentious but effortlessly stylish—the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re in on something special.
The Best of New York According to Lisa Karvellas
1. People Watch at The Carlyle Hotel
Photo by Durston Saylor. Courtesy of Carlyle Hotel.
Built in 1930, The Carlyle is a luxury New York City hotel that exudes charm and elegance. For generations, it has been a home away from home for world leaders, celebrities and sophisticated travelers. Guests indulge in remarkable privacy, luxury and impeccable service at this award-winning property.
Designed by the noted architectural firm Bien & Prince and named in honor of British essayist Thomas Carlyle, the hotel has been a Manhattan landmark for decades. The Carlyle features 189 rooms and suites with stunning views of Central Park and New York.
Today, The Carlyle continues to be the pinnacle of luxury for sophisticated travelers. –Rosewood Hotels
2. Walk Down Madison Avenue
Courtesy of the Madison Avenue BID
Immerse yourself in thirty blocks of storied style and culture. Madison Avenue, on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, is one of the premier luxury shopping districts in the world. Walk the iconic streets infused with historic architecture and European-inspired ambiance as you soak in the charm of classic New York City. We welcome you to experience the allure of Madison Avenue and its endless discoveries of shopping, hotels, dining, and art destinations. –Madison Avenue Bid
3. Visit Historic Homes with Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse
Courtesy of Rupp Studio.
This biennial event offers a rare opportunity to visit a historic home in Brooklyn Heights while discovering the work of cutting-edge designers who are selected to add their unique touch to their rooms, blending old with new Brooklyn chic. –Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse
4. Dine at Roman’s
Courtesy of Roman’s and Resy.com.
Roman’s serves spirited, Italian-influenced food that reflects a longstanding commitment to local agriculture and sustainability. Our menu celebrates our relationships with area farmers, tradition-based artisans, agricultural-based Italian importers, and winemakers.
While the experience at Roman’s showcases our focus on procuring the highest quality food and wine, we are, above all, committed to making our industry a more equitable and sustainable home for all of those who work in it. –Roman’s
