JW Marriott, a global leader in hospitality, continues to elevate its dining experiences by modernizing its kitchens and restaurants to reflect the latest standards in the foodservice industry. Among its many noteworthy projects, a standout collaboration involved Bourbon Steak, the high-end restaurant concept by acclaimed Michelin Star Chef Michael Mina.
Located in a historic Essex House property right at Central Park in New York City, this location has become the flagship restaurant for the Bourbon Steak brand. If you haven’t experienced it yet, book a reservation and don’t miss the smoked Old Fashioned—it’s crafted table-side, adding a theatrical flair to your dining experience.
Thoughtful Design for a Landmark Property
This Marriott property is steeped in history, requiring thoughtful and creative design solutions to meet the challenges posed by its old infrastructure. Ownership had a clear vision for the project, which inspired Avanti and its partners to bring that vision to life. With an aggressive budget and timeline, the team faced unique pressures—but successfully delivered on both counts.
The design and installation of the exhaust system in such an old building presented significant challenges. Careful collaboration among all trades, coupled with innovative problem-solving, was essential to making the system work. Additionally, Avanti worked closely with the accomplished interior design group AvroKO, whose expertise helped create a stunning, cohesive environment for this flagship location.
Redefining Restaurant Design
Among the highlights of the project was a groundbreaking approach to kitchen hoods. Due to conflicts with existing overhead beams, Avanti partnered with Captive Aire to design reverse-operating hoods— a creative solution that redefined expectations for what’s possible in a historic building.
Transporting large kitchen equipment into the heart of New York City and navigating the confines of this historic property was another significant hurdle. However, thanks to precise planning and a collaborative effort, the operation was executed flawlessly, resulting in a fully functional and awe-inspiring culinary space.
Elevating the Dining Experience
Avanti also incorporated standout features such as a bespoke chef’s table by BW Custom and state-of-the-art, temperature-controlled wine cabinets by Vigilant. These elements not only enhanced the space’s aesthetic appeal but also delivered an unparalleled dining experience.
Lessons in Excellence
Reflecting on the project, the Avanti team emphasized the importance of scope, schedule, and budget management. Key communication and teamwork played a vital role, especially with partners like Shawmut, Mina Group, and AvroKO, who brought years of expertise to the table.
This Bourbon Steak location is now a crown jewel for both JW Marriott and the Bourbon Steak brand, showcasing Avanti’s ability to blend creative design, logistical precision, and timeless craftsmanship. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when vision, collaboration, and innovation come together.
