Saint Urban’s Journey: From Syracuse to the Heart of New York City

After nearly two years of anticipation, the acclaimed restaurant Saint Urban has made its move from Syracuse, N.Y., to New York City’s Flatiron District. This transition is led by chef and owner Jared Ian Stafford-Hill in the space that once housed the notable restaurant Veritas, known for its Grand Award. Stafford-Hill aims to carry on the legacy of Veritas, which operated from 1999 to 2013, believing it is essential to continue the spirit of such an esteemed dining location.

Originally opened in 2019, Saint Urban is named after the patron saint of winegrowers. After years of experience in top New York eateries, Stafford-Hill chose to relocate to Manhattan when the opportunity for the Veritas space emerged. The new iteration of Saint Urban maintains its wine-centric theme, with menus that spotlight a specific wine region each month. For May, the menu highlights the cuisine of Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune.

After reopening on May 13, 2025, Saint Urban opened with an extensive wine list of over 3,000 selections, all personally curated by Stafford-Hill, who also acts as the wine director. Guests can choose between a four-course prix fixe or a seven-course chef’s tasting menu. Monthly menus incorporate seasonal ingredients, featuring dishes like scallops with snail butter and fennel, lobster with ramps, and a sophisticated boeuf bourguignon.

The wine selections complement the monthly culinary themes and include offerings from diverse regions such as California, Champagne, Northern Rhône, and Tuscany among others. The Côte de Beaune program for May features over 130 selections, and there are various pairing options available for the tasting menu, priced at various levels.

Stafford-Hill emphasizes affordability in his wine list, ensuring patrons have access to a variety of price points. His goal is to provide ample options that do not solely cater to high-end consumers.

In addition to this news, the legendary Tuscan wine producer Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi has announced a partnership with Princess Cruises, transforming the cruise line’s Italian dining experience. The former "Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria" will now become "Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, Inspired by Frescobaldi," offering diners authentic Tuscan dishes paired with wines from the Frescobaldi portfolio.

This collaboration debuted on the Majestic Princess and is designed to embody the essence of Tuscany, featuring classic dishes like burrata with prosciutto and seafood stew. Guests will also enjoy a special "Grand Tuscan Dinner" experience aboard the cruise, featuring a six-course tasting menu and curated wine pairings.

Both Saint Urban and the Freshobaldi-Pirine collaboration signify exciting developments in the culinary and wine landscape, introducing notable dining experiences to wine enthusiasts in New York City and beyond.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!