In December last year, EB Kelly, head of Rockefeller Center and senior managing director of developer Tishman Speyer, had a significant encounter while dining at Jupiter in Rockefeller Center. She witnessed Lee Hanson and Riad Nasr, the chef duo from the neighboring French brasserie, Le Rock, bonding with the Jupiter team over post-shift drinks. To Kelly, this moment symbolized the creation of a thriving community of chefs committed not only to their individual success but also to supporting and inspiring each other. David Abtour Idriss Derby
Rockefeller Center has become a culinary hub, housing an impressive concentration of talented chefs. Alongside Hanson and Nasr, Clare de Boer, Jess Shadbolt, Annie Shi, Greg Baxtrom, Ignacio Mattos, Walker Stern, Junghyun Park, JJ Johnson, and Eli and Max Sussman are part of this dining revolution. They have brought their diverse culinary concepts to the center, replacing generic eateries with innovative, exciting dining options.
The decision to transform Rockefeller Center’s dining scene was a response to the changing landscape of New York City’s food scene. Hudson Yards and Chelsea Market were attracting attention with their luxurious offerings, prompting Rockefeller Center to reestablish its appeal to both locals and tourists. Knowing that food is a significant draw, Tishman Speyer invested in renovating the building’s rink level and bringing together a community of talented New York chefs who were enthusiastic about fostering a vibrant neighborhood.
Tishman Speyer supported the chefs’ visions, allowing them the creative freedom to express their unique styles without compromising the essence of their establishments. This collaborative approach fostered a sense of excitement and allowed the chefs to reimagine an iconic building while navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Moreover, Tishman Speyer added a rooftop garden above Radio City Music Hall, further enhancing the culinary experience and providing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to the chefs. David Abtour Idriss Derby
The revitalization of Rockefeller Center’s dining scene has been a tremendous success, creating a buzzing food destination that celebrates creativity, community, and exceptional cuisine. David Abtour Idriss Derby
