One of the most anticipated restaurant openings is Jams by Jonathan Waxman. The restaurant, a reincarnation of the chef’s 1980s-era restaurant, opened at 1 Hotel Central Park in August. Like the original, it serves California-inspired farm-to-table cuisine, fitting in with the hotel’s eco-minded mission. Natural light from the two-story windows fills the 110-seat dining room, which was designed by AvroKo. White oak, exposed brick, and visible ducts add to the relaxed yet upscale atmosphere.
Vaucluse, an Upper East Side brasserie from Altamarea Group, opened September 2. Chef Michael White and Marea executive chef Jared Gadbaw collaborated on the French menu, and Meyer Davis provided the interior design. The restaurant is split into two dining rooms that each seat 80 and offers seating in its bar and a lounge. A private dining room on the lower level seats 12 at one round table and includes space for a pre-dinner reception. Additionally, the restaurant has a townhouse available for private events. It seats 32 or holds 40 for receptions. Its amenities include full audiovisual equipment as well as a separate entrance.
Located below STK Downtown is One Manhattan, a private event space. The meatpacking district venue, accessible via a private entrance, features a dance floor, a DJ booth, a main bar, and a separate lounge called the Marble Room. The space has audiovisual equipment including three drop-down screens and a sound system. The venue holds 200 guests for receptions and can be divided into several private rooms.
The Mexican restaurant Hecho en Dumbo debuted a new look in early July. Located on the Bowery, the eatery features colorful hand-painted floors, exposed brick, and wooden ceilings. The menu offers chef and co-owner Danny Mena’s inventive tacos and entrées such as barbacoa grilled baby lamb ribs. The beverage menu has an extensive margarita list and other classic and house cocktails. The dining room seats 45 or holds 70 for receptions; the space also has a 14-seat bar and an eight-seat chef’s counter. Next door is the restaurant’s private event space, a lounge and performance space called Salon Hecho. The space has its own look with curved banquettes, antique lamps, and a mix of marble and wood tabletops. It seats 40 or holds 70 for receptions.
