• The Lion & the Lamb

  1460 Lexington Avenue, 212-876-4303

  Even though it’s located on a rather bleak city block, a warm, cozy glow seems to emanate from the Lion & the Lamb’s tiny storefront. Inside, celebrity stylists gab with Dalton students and Upper East Side moms at the beginning knitting class ($175 per three-class course). Gorgeous skeins of every color and texture, from luxe cashmere to coarse wool, cover the walls. Wine flows freely and conversation hits all the main New York talking points: celebrities, The Sopranos, Dolce & Gabbana. Yarn-obsessive owner Leslie Axman guarantees that everyone will complete a hat and a scarf by the end of the course, which isn’t surprising: Under her guidance (with an assist from the many zealous knitters who hang around the store), even the un-craftiest student will have at least a pot holder done in no time. In addition, thanks to the new “To Go” program, you can arrange for a lesson or party at home. The Lion & the Lamb also offers kids’ sessions and a Finishing Class ($100), in which you’ll learn buttonholes, seams, and pickup stitches should you decide to take your calming new hobby to the next level.

From the 2004 Best of New York issue of New York Magazine