In our opinion, Marcus Samuelsson is a sheer juggernaut of talent and a PR wizard who has not only talked about changes in Harlem but actually is someone who has been a game changer in the true sense of the word. New establishments such as the Corner Social, Cove Lounge, Lenox Coffee and Astor Row Cafe have been opening up on this section of Lenox in the past six months and some of the businesses have benefited from the traffic overflow of the Red Rooster. This blogger and guest could not get a seat at the Red Rooster's bar early yesterday evening and thus headed over to the Corner Social across the street. The restaurant formerly known as the Lenox Social was pleasantly filled with early diners but had a few tables open for walk-in guests. Older veterans of the block such as the adjacent Chez Lucienne also seem to be constantly busy since the Rooster opened.
Part of the success of RR (Red Rooster) in attracting so much traffic is RR has some Harlem flavor, from the name to the signage to the décor to the menu. When visitors travel uptown, they come to see the new Harlem, not a copy of the upper west side. Agreed Ulysses, the arrival of RR was a significant moment in the evolution of the new Harlem.
ReplyDeleteAgreed.
ReplyDeleteIt a testiment to the man's marketing genius that he is able to get folks from the "never go above 14th street, even on a dare" crowd to reguarly frequent the place.
Marcus Samuelsson's been a game changer for the neighborhood.
And he's such a nice guy. The vibe at Red Roo, as well as neighboring restaurants is terrific.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to Mr. Samuelsson! He knows his stuff! I must agree with M. Mr. Samuelsson is truly a nice guy. When my sister and I ate there he was on the floor greeting and taking time to talk to his customers. My sister & I spoke with him at least 10 minutes, he did'nt take his attention away from our conversation once. He is truly a business man & run's his business professionally, and is a GREAT GUY!
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