SHO Shaun Hergatt, 40 Broad St., 2nd Fl; 212-809-3993
Initial Projection: Late October
Current Debut Projection: Mid-December
Odds, On Time Arrival: 2-1
Eater Projected Opening Date: 12/20/08
We turn our attention to Fidi's biggest fall opening, besides Todd English's already breathing Libertine—SHO Shaun Hergatt. Located on the second floor of the new Setai condo on 40 Broad St., the expansive restaurant will be the first NYC solo effort by Gabriel Kreuther's former deputy at Atelier, Shaun Hergatt, and will be a follow up to his restaurant at South Beach's Setai. The opening will be a test of how such an ambitious project—the space is 12,500 square feet and will feature white tablecloths, a "structured" menu— can survive in this shitshow of an economic climate.
According to the preview literature, the Australian native plans on a seasonal menu with some items here and there imported from Down Under. And it will be on the upscale side. Back in August, Hergatt wasn't so worried, per an interview with the Cuozz:
"I meet people who are skeptical...But I see the flip side. There is no other competition in the area. Look at the demographics around us. Every apartment around here pulls in an average annual income of $250,000. We're right next to the Stock Exchange. We're surrounded by great wealth."
Hopefully all that wealth will stick around for the opening.
But all predictions and economic issues aside, the place is going to be a stunner. According to a correspondent who snuck in for an impromptu tour, the space has a zen/ minimalist / modern feeling and is overwhelming in its size. It is split up into a a hostess foyer, bar area, a lounge area, a wine "cellar," a dining room, the kitchen (which will have an open design) and a private party room.
Representatives tell us they are now "on time with their construction plan" and will be open mid-December. And they've already started hiring, a good sign.
· SHO TIME: FiDi Newbie Defies Bad Economy, Name [NYP]For more stories from Eater, go to eater.com.
