The Leopard at Des Artistes, a beloved Upper West Side restaurant for 15 years, is set to close in mid-February, ending a celebrated chapter in New York City’s restaurant scene.
The Leopard at Des Artistes to Serve Last this February
The Leopard is set inside a historic space adorned with early-1900s murals. Since opening in 2011, the restaurant occupied the space once housed by the famed Café des Artistes.
The Leopard became famous for its sophisticated menu, live jazz brunches, and classic atmosphere. The dining room features historic murals by Howard Chandler Christy, painted in the early 1900s.
The restaurant will serve its final meal on Feb. 15 before closing permanently. Guests can visit the ground floor of historic Hotel des Artistes at 1 West 67 th street in the final days of service.
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The Leopard Legacy and its Michelin Guide Recognition
The Leopard at Des Artistes, a historic building, is a distinguished Michelin-recognized restaurant. The place attracts diners who appreciate both the space’s heritage and the quality of its cuisine.
Central to The Leopard’s identity was the leadership and vision of Gianfranco Sorrentino. He was a Naples-based restaurateur and managing partner of Il Gattopardo. Deceased in late 2024, Sorrentino was widely considered an icon of good Italian food in America.
With a decades-long career involving New York fine dining establishments, his dedication to true Italian cooking and hospitality made The Leopard iconic.
The impending closure of The Leopard at Des Artistes represents the end of a significant period in the history of New York restaurants. The locals will miss historic charm, regional Italian cuisine, and memorable experiences.
