Chef Michael Lomonaco Shutters His Renowned Steakhouse in Manhattan: A Culinary Goodbye

Two decades is a significant milestone for a restaurant in New York City. After nearly 20 years, Porter House Bar and Grill, a recipient of the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, will close its doors following Labor Day. Chef Michael Lomonaco, an esteemed figure in the culinary world, expressed sadness over the closure, reflecting on the restaurant’s successful run. “It is a sad occasion. You always want to keep going, but we had a great 19 years,” he stated.

Located on the fourth floor of the Time Warner Center (now the Deutsche Bank Center), Porter House offered expansive views of Columbus Circle and Central Park, attracting a diverse clientele including high-profile diners and local families. The establishment had a notable wine list, emphasizing quality and variety—something that Lomonaco and co-owner Kenneth Himmel, who also owns the award-winning Grill 23 & Bar in Boston, are passionate about. As for the wine collection post-closure, Lomonaco anticipates that it will be auctioned or distributed to other restaurants.

Reflecting on his career, Lomonaco, who has cooked at prestigious establishments like Le Cirque and Windows on the World, looks forward to future opportunities within New York’s vibrant dining scene, aiming to continue his legacy of creating memorable culinary experiences.

In a separate update from the New York dining landscape, renowned chef Daniel Boulud is set to overhaul his three Upper West Side restaurants—Bar Boulud, Boulud Sud, and Épicerie Boulud—to make way for a new brasserie. Scheduled to open this fall, the revamped space will showcase Boulud’s culinary flair, blending traditional and contemporary elements.

Additionally, a new establishment, Buchette del Vino, recently opened in Times Square, offering wine through a unique window concept inspired by Florence. This casual spot provides affordable Italian wines and an easy-going dining experience, marking a fresh addition to the bustling locale, aiming to draw both locals and tourists looking to enjoy quality fare without a hefty price tag.

For those interested in exploring New York’s ever-evolving restaurant scene, these closures and openings signal both the end of an era and the promise of new beginnings within the culinary landscape.

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!