West Bank Cafe will be reopening under new ownership soon after it closed at 407 West 42nd Street in December.
Former owner Steve Olsen ended his run at the location on Dec. 15, citing economic issues, rising expenses and lingering challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic as reasons in a Facebook announcement in December.
“We are eternally grateful for the support we have received from our Hell’s Kitchen and Theater communities and beyond throughout our illustrious 46 plus years on Theatre Row and for all the personal relationships and shared history we have forged with our customers and friends,” the announcement stated.
However, the cafe has plans to reopen under new ownership “to usher in a new era,” according to the announcement. Tom D’Angora and Michael Duling D’Angora will take over the ownership after being part of the fundraising campaigns to assist West Bank Cafe in surviving amid its economic struggles.
“Management, staff, and ‘good vibes’ will all stay the same,” the Facebook announcement stated.
Tom D’Angora has filed paperwork for a liquor license at the address this month. The paperwork indicates plans to replace the signage and awning outside the building.
The ground floor, which will be a dedicated dining space, will have 25 tables that seat 75 and one bar that seats 20. The basement, which will serve as a dining and theater space, will have 31 tables that seat 70 and one service-only bar.
The menu will feature starters like wild mushroom risotto balls and salmon tartare, and entrees like eggplant parmesan, burgers, shrimp scampi and pasta, according to paperwork. Proposed hours are 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily.
What Now New York reached out to D’Angora for further information but did not receive comment prior to the time of publication.
