When celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson opened Red Rooster on Lenox Avenue back in 2010, there were many doubters who have since been proven wrong by the eatery's success. Samuelsson's culinary skill and clout has put Harlem on the map in a way that has not been seen since the Renaissance years and the chef's peers are now taking note. Restauranteur Richard Notar of Nobu fame will open a new version of the former Lenox Lounge a block away from Red Rooster just south of 125th Street and Shake Shack's Danny Meyer is reportedly looking in the neighborhood a little further north by 135th Street.
The downtown crowd is now venturing uptown to visit Harlem mainly because of Red Rooster but that will change soon within the next year. Harlem is still one of the last neighborhoods left with a bit of mystery in a city which constantly seeks to be unique and thus has suddenly become attractive to those who want a location that is not standard or mainstream.
Great post, it sums up the huge significance of Red Rooster in the changing face of Harlem. Part of the success of Red Rooster is it appeals to locals and downtowners alike, creating a special energy where all are welcome. Red Rooster also serves as a gateway into Harlem that attracts downtowners who may be discovering the new Harlem for the first time.
ReplyDeleteWell said, Westsider.
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