An article in the Daily News talks about the fate of Lenox Lounge since the current proprietor will not be able to afford the rent on the space once it increases in June. Al Reed has owned the famous establishment located just south of 125th Street since 1988 and the Harlem native reportedly has been talking to Marcus Samuelsson, Laurence Page of the Pink Teacup and a partner of Rober De Niro about the future of this long running Harlem institution from the 1930's. Mr. Reed plans to keep the rights to name but now is looking for an investor who will reinvent the space where icons such as Billie Holiday once sang. Read more in the Daily News:
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The current Lenox Lounge operates as a second rate tourist attraction left over from the old Harlem where it could be alive with the energy of the new Harlem spots like the Red Rooster bar and live music scene. With the right management and it’s iconic name and history it could be a real hot spot. I would have Marcus Samuelson as a consultant or partner reinvent this place to connect with the new Harlem as he seems to know Harlem. The Lenox Lounge has survived so long and has such history it would be tragic for a place with such potential to fail.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad he is going to try to stay with it - I think keeping the best of the old while breathing some new life into it would be great. I'd keep a lot of the decor but warm it up a bit (starting with curtains in the front - something about being able to see in from the street kills the "lounge" vibe, although I think otherwise the outside is near perfect) and revamp the food & drink menu. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteGG Agreed, I would like to see the current iconic red front and signage remain, along with the tiled floor and zebra upholstery that was recently upgraded. What needs to change is a transformation from old Harlem tourist attraction to new Harlem hot spot. I guess that would be everything from the menu, to the bar to the entertainment.
ReplyDeleteGetting rid of that disinfectant smell would be the first order of business. Lysol is not conducive to creating a mellow vibe. I do feel the owner has missed an opportunity to participate in the revival taking place all over Harlem.
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