Years ago, when David called New York home, he and his son would seek refuge at Lovely Day, where a simple burger became their sacred ritual.

We’d cross paths with Kazusa all over—bumping into her in the neighborhood, at Brimfield while she was renovating the Lovely Day basement, or upstate when we all needed a break from the city for fresh apple cider and farm visits. Those unexpected encounters always felt like small gifts from the universe, reminders of the way New York weaves people together.

As we approach our 20th anniversary next year, we felt drawn to reconnect with the small businesses that have stood the test of time in our neighborhood—those that have shaped our experiences and held space for so many. Naturally, we reached out to David from Dashwood Books, celebrating 20 years this year, and Kazusa, whose Lovely Day has been a fixture in Nolita for the past 22 years.

When we asked Kazusa about the secret to longevity in this ever-changing city, her response was as humble as ever. She spoke about the people—those just arriving in New York, wide-eyed and eager, and the longtime regulars who have been coming for so long they feel like family. At its core, Lovely Day exists for them. A place where anyone can sit down, share their day, and enjoy a simple, nourishing meal. Every evening, the candlelight spills from the windows, casting its soft glow onto a crowd that somehow always feels young.

So many of us spent our early years here, and it’s a beautiful thing to watch new generations discover their own sense of belonging in this little Asian bistro.

 

And then, there’s the basement—on Tuesdays, it transforms into a vinyl night, a gathering space with its own magic. That’s where we met Gordon Hull. Life has a funny way of connecting people—back in the early 2000s, Gordon’s brand, Surface to Air, and SKU were stocked side by side in places like Barneys.

Surface to Air started as a creative agency but became known for its iconic tees and campaigns. Today, Gordon continues to disrupt the creative world, weaving art and design into unexpected places. We loved seeing how he brought his own energy into our Good Work collection—and we’re grateful he braved one of the coldest nights this winter to spin for us.

Kazusa, thank you. For holding onto this space, for giving people a place to gather, for fostering connections between creatives, and for reminding us all that some of the most meaningful impacts are made quietly, with warmth and consistency.

And if you are curious about the Boyville styles that Kazysa was wearing in the video, check it out HERE.

Gordon is wearing Good Work, 100% Made in USA collection, see the styles HERE.

Special Thanks | Kazusa @Lovely Day and Gordon Hull

Video Director | Marina Elise @marinaelisee

Creative Direction | David Mullen @SKU