Eytan Sugarman, a hospitality mogul in New York, has enlisted the help of famed Waverly Inn chef John DeLucie to bring back the glory of a 150-year-old tavern near the South Street Seaport. The Paris Cafe, originally opened in 1873, has a rich history of hosting famous patrons such as Teddy Roosevelt, Thomas Edison, Bob Dylan, and Lauren Bacall. Sugarman plans to maintain the historical integrity of the pub while introducing a new food and beverage program inspired by French cuisine, curated by DeLucie.
The Paris Cafe survived a flood during Hurricane Sandy but was forced to close during the pandemic. Following its reopening in November, Sugarman purchased a majority stake in DeLucie’s Ambra Italia Trattoria and brought him in to revamp the menu. DeLucie, known for his work at the Waverly Inn and the Empire Diner, is excited to contribute to another historic establishment and an emerging neighborhood. Paris Cafe now falls under Sugarman’s new Hudson Street Hospitality company, which includes various nightlife professionals in leadership positions.
Sugarman’s hospitality empire also includes the White Horse Tavern in the West Village, dating back to 1880 and frequented by influential figures such as Dylan Thomas and Bob Dylan. Sugarman refers to both the White Horse Tavern and the Paris Cafe as “legacy brands” and aims to preserve their historical significance in a rapidly changing city. His commitment to championing these classic establishments is reflected in his investment in the restoration and revitalization of both venues.
Beyond the Paris Cafe and the White Horse Tavern, Sugarman is set to open The Hudson Club, an upscale restaurant and cocktail bar on W. 55th St. The space, formerly occupied by Black Tap Burger, will offer a high-end dining experience with a members club atmosphere that remains accessible to all. Sugarman’s vision for The Hudson Club mirrors the ambiance of his other midtown establishment, the Hunt & Fish Club, emphasizing quality cocktails and fine dining in a sophisticated setting.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Sugarman remains bullish on New York City’s recovery and its enduring appeal as a premier destination for nightlife and hospitality. He expresses his unwavering belief in the city’s resilience and potential for restoration, emphasizing his long-term commitment to investing and creating memorable dining experiences in the city. With a focus on revitalizing historic establishments and creating new upscale venues, Sugarman’s ventures continue to contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of New York City.
As part of his efforts to revitalize establishments and launch new projects, Sugarman has assembled a team of industry professionals, including nightlife veterans and seasoned restaurateurs, to drive his vision forward. By leveraging their expertise and passion for hospitality, Sugarman aims to create unique and unforgettable experiences for guests, drawing inspiration from the rich history and cultural diversity of New York City. Whether through preserving legacy brands or introducing new concepts, Sugarman’s dedication to the city’s vibrant hospitality scene remains unwavering as he continues to build on his legacy in the industry.
