Renowned chef José Andrés is once again making waves in New York City's culinary scene with transformations and openings that continue to attract attention. Known for his global portfolio of restaurants and philanthropic efforts through World Central Kitchen, Andrés is set to reshape the dining experience at Hudson Yards. Eater reports the transition of two of his venues at Mercado Little Spain. The comfortable, homely Spanish Diner is making way for the arrival of Oyamel, an import from D.C. known for its Mexican City fare and iconic items like carnitas and potentially, grasshopper tacos. Adjacent Leña will become Txula, a Basque steakhouse, with both expected to debut in spring 2025.
Despite his established success, not every venture turns gold for Andrés. His latest enterprise, the Bazaar at the Ritz-Carlton Nomad, which offers a blend of Japanese and Spanish cuisines, has received less than stellar reviews. The New York Post describes it as this year's "most under-achieving new restaurant." Customers have balked at high prices, such as $28 cocktails and Japanese Wagyu for as much as $65 an ounce, coupled with a menu that sometimes falls flat in execution.
Back at Hudson Yards, the design for Oyamel is entrusted to the Rockwell Group and will feature multicolored butterflies akin to its original location. The same design firm is also tasked with revamping the new steakhouse, which will focus on meaty options from Iberico pork to lamb and grilled seafood within Spain and the U.S. Andrés continues to operate other establishments in the area, including tapas bar La Barra and seafood spot Mar.
Andrés's foray into Mexican cuisine at Hudson Yards is set against a backdrop of New York's ever-changing restaurant landscape. The neighborhood has witnessed its share of openings and closures among big-name restaurants, with Wells Fargo's investment offering a fresh turning point post-pandemic. Notwithstanding the challenges, Hudson Yards remains a hotspot with enterprises such as Meta and L'Oreal USA calling it home.
The challenges faced by the Bazaar notwithstanding, Andrés’s contributions to international cuisine and his humanitarian efforts are undiminished. The New York Post has expressed hope for a turnaround: "I hope Andrés can right the ship." Andrés’s prior Bazaar locations in Las Vegas and Los Angeles had enjoyed success.
