New Yorkers looking for a chic new haven in an unexpected locale will have just the spot this spring with the opening of The Bronze Owl in early May. Bringing a downtown vibe to Greeley Square, Hospitality Department (HD) founders Chef Franklin Becker and Stephen Loffredo partner with David Rabin (American Bar, Temple Bar, The Lambs Club) to open a stylish cocktail bar reminiscent of those found in Noho or Soho. They have partnered with HD master bartender Max Green. Known for his cocktail program at Amor Y Amargo in Brooklyn, Green’s Italian-inspired drinks menu showcasing irreverent combinations and playful interpretations of classics including Fire from Olympus featuring gin, fennel, Aveze, lime and soda; Pressure Sensitive with tequila, Velvet Falernum, almond, lime and lime oil; The Bronze Owl with vodka, Aperol, lemon, Sumac strawberry bitters, and Prosecco; and Boozy Italian Ice.
In the shadow of the Empire State Building and a block from Madison Square Garden, The Bronze Owl is designed by Tim Schollaert of M-Use Architects. Named for the owls in the adjacent square, the scene is set with lush green hues and bronze accents filling the space. The bar marries classic and current NYC bar atmosphere with a sly nod to the edgier aesthetics of the 60’s/70s/80s nightlife culture of yesteryear – vintage artwork paired with a contemporary playlist, elegant fixtures, and subdued, romantic lighting. The striking black and white images are curated by the married artist duo of New Yorker cartoonist, Guy Richard Smit, and Rebecca Chamberlain, a contemporary painter and fashion designer.
Executive Chef Dan Drohan teams up with Hospitality Department V.P. of Culinary Operations Kevin Garcia (Lupa, Del Posto, Cesca, Academia de Vino and Giovanna Ranna) to offer savory Italian-themed bites including assorted Toasts such as Black Diamond Caviar & Burrata, House Made Lardo with rosemary and young olive oil, and a selection of premium Cured Meats such as Prosciutto di Parma with 24-month-old ham and parma, or Testa with house made Heritage breed pork loin. Their extensive regional cheese selection showcases Italy’s finest producers as a perfect pairing to Green’s Italian-inspired cocktails or wines.
The Bronze Owl’s drink and food menus will be available into the late hours of the night. The Bronze Owl will be open Monday-Saturday from 5:00 PM-late.
