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Finally: Something Is Stirring In The Rainbow Room
By
Garth Johnston
Published Jul 11, 2011
Modified Jul 11, 2011
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By
Garth Johnston
Published Jul 11, 2011
Modified Jul 11, 2011
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Over the last few years New York has lost a number of dining destinations (Elaine's, Chanterelle) but other than, maybe, the Tavern on the Green few have been as iconic or as sorely missed as the Rainbow Room. But maybe, just maybe, there is life in the old girl yet. After two years of nothing Tishman Speyer, which owns the landmark, has started doing renovations on the 64th floor space.
Reps at Tishman Speyer are not talking (something they've been consistent about since forcing the Cipriani boys out of the restaurant) but the Post noticed that the company pushed through permits from the Landmarks Preservation Commission last month (the exterior of the restaurant is a landmark and there is a movement to landmark the interior as well). The work currently going on includes new 24-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, demolition of walls and ceilings, as well as plumbing, mechanical and electrical work.
As for when something might reopen in the space, well, that's an open question. Tishman previously tapped restaurateur Barry Wine (of the late Quilted Giraffe) to help them find a new operator but that partnership seems to have ended. The Post reports that sometime-Iron Chef America judge Elizabeth Blau is now helping them find a top-notch restaurateur to run the stunning joint. Considering how spectacular the views are up there, the sooner they find someone the better. Wonder why Trump hasn't mad a pitch yet?
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