The Aviary takes Manhattan. Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas of the Chicago-based Alinea Group will be bringing their popular concept to New York City in summer 2017. Set to debut at the Mandarin Oriental, New York, the Aviary NYC is the cocktail lounge's first outpost outside of Chicago, and the duo’s first hotel partnership. What this means for the city’s food scene?
Since it opened in 2011, the Aviary in Chicago has drawn the crowds for tasty small plates prepared in an open kitchen and seriously cool drinks (the bartenders use 30 different types of ice). The official website says it best: “Where cocktails and service are given the same attention to detail as a four-star restaurant; where bartenders are trained as chefs; where the produce and herbs are carefully sourced and procured fresh daily; where the name and branding of the spirit mixed is less important than its actual flavor…”
The Aviary NYC will stay true to the original, while paying homage to the historic cocktail culture of New York City. What's more, the Aviary NYC will be located on the 35th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, thus providing imbibers with sky-high views over Central Park. While The Aviary NYC will have 90 seats, the adjacent space—called The Office—will offer 40 seats in a private, “speakeasy” style environment.
Mandarin Oriental, New York is situated in Columbus Circle’s Time Warner Center. The hotel has 244 guest rooms, a Mandarin Oriental spa measuring 14,500 square feet, a fitness center, and a 75-foot swimming pool. F&B outlets include Asiate restaurant and MObar, designed by Toni Chi.