8. 701 Restaurant
Another Ashok Bajaj restaurant, 701 Restaurant, also underwent a renovation this summer. The New American eatery reopened in September after a makeover from Martin Vahtra of Projects Design Associates of New York. The renovation's focal point is a new private dining room that seats 40 guests or holds 65 for receptions. The new private room, called the State Room, includes etched glass panels, floor-to-ceiling drapery, a modern audiovisual system, and its own bar—a glass box which is lit from within for a sculptural effect. The former semiprivate Corner View space, now named the Archives Room, has been made private with the installation of a glass door and seats 22 guests or holds 35 for receptions. The existing 12-seat private dining room, now called the Admiral Room, features new paint, wall coverings, and artwork. The entire restaurant now boasts new furniture, new carpeting, and dramatic lighting.