PH-D isn't in reference to a Doctor of Philosophy in this case, but instead stands for Penthouse at Dream, the new uber-exclusive event space at you guessed it, Vikram Chatwal's new Dream Downtown hotel. We take a look at what promises to make this new venue VIP-worthy.
Co-owner & co-founder of velvet rope clubs Tao, Marquee, Avenue, and LAVO, Noah Tepperberg, is on board along with Rich Wolf, Marc Packer and Jason Strauss, reports Gatecrasher. The door promises to be "uber-tough," which goes along with the ethos of the purveyors. LAVO recently sent out cards to its most elite patrons as a way to mark them on the permanent guest list. Avenue has a rough door and Marquee's velvet rope was hard to get beyond when the space first opened.
If you do manage to get into PH-D you might discover a refreshing experience. Or at least from the sounds of it. PH-D will eschew the new Asian-themed trend (Mr. H, Madame Wong's, the will-it-ever-open-what's-taking-so-long Le Baron) and go for a breezy "South of France" vibe complete with a "pool bar" and real-sand "beach" club. Food will also be served with indoor and outdoor seating available.
Expect the drinks and the food to be pricey. "Exclusive," usually translates to entrance granted upon flash of Am-Ex Black Card. Add that to the plans for the hotel's forthcoming restaurant Romera, which focuses on "neurogastronomy" and features a 12-course $245 menu, and you have some serious $$$$ foreshadowing.
PH-D and the hotel should be open by June 15 and are located at 355 W. 16th St. (at 9th ave).
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