After a year’s absence from the New York culinary scene, Alain Ducasse is
back. But at his new spot, Adour Alain Ducasse at the St. Regis hotel, wine is
the star. Designed by the Rockwell Group, in the former Lespinasse space,
Adour successfully walks the line between old (walls of seeded glass and silver
leaf, burled-wood wine cases) and new (at the bar, guests will order using
a computerized, motion-sensitive and interactive wine list projected
from above). The bar is covered in stretched goatskin, a seemingly odd
choice for a surface doomed to colorful spills but one that was repeatedly
tested and found up to the challenge, David Rockwell said. The 2,500-squarefoot
library-like space seats 80, mostly in banquettes. But for those who occupy
a chair, Mr. Rockwell added a pull-out tray that acts as a stylish perch
for a handbag.
Photo: Bruce Buck
