Another New York City clubstaurant will soon be bidding farewell to the bustling Midtown area. Lavo, the upscale Italian eatery and nightclub on East 58th Street, will be closing its doors on January 23rd. The news of its closure has left partygoers and patrons saddened, as Lavo has been a beloved venue for the past 13 years.
Lavo, which was opened in 2010 by Noah Tepperberg, Jason Strauss, Marc Packer, and Rich Wolf, quickly became one of the best venues in the city. Celebrity sightings were not uncommon at Lavo, with stars like Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, and Leonardo DiCaprio gracing its presence. It served as a hotspot for both established artists and rising talents, with DJs such as Calvin Harris, Avicii, and Tiesto regularly spinning at the club. Even the internationally famous Chainsmokers started their career by opening for Steve Aoki at Lavo.
Lavo was not just a nightclub; it was also a place where dreams came true. Departing from the traditional club scene, Lavo provided a platform for up-and-coming artists and performers. “Orange Is the New Black” star Jackie Cruz, for example, worked as a server at Lavo before her big break. It was also home to the legendary Sunday night dinner parties hosted by the late Rocco Ancarola, an esteemed nightlife impresario.
Over the years, Lavo expanded its empire with locations in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, London, and Singapore. The success of these ventures demonstrated the brand’s ability to captivate audiences across the globe. Additionally, a new Lavo restaurant will be opening its doors in Mexico City in just two months, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved brand.
Despite the closure of the New York City club, Lavo is not disappearing entirely. The founders have plans to relaunch Lavo in New York, this time as a restaurant rather than a nightclub. This decision reflects an evolving industry, as the demand for restaurant experiences continues to rise. Lavo will maintain its kitchen team and transition into a catering and delivery-only business, ensuring loyal guests can still satisfy their cravings for its delectable Italian cuisine even after the closure.
The closure of Lavo undoubtedly marks the end of an era in New York’s vibrant nightlife history. While other establishments may still dot the streets of East 58th, the absence of Lavo will leave a void that cannot be easily filled. Noah Tepperberg eloquently expressed his sentiments, stating, “New York is losing a piece of its nightlife history, and the last real nightclub left uptown… East 58th Street will never be the same.”
Lavo NYC’s imminent closure evokes a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation for what lies ahead. While the club and restaurant will be missed, the exciting prospect of a new Lavo in New York City, along with its expanding presence globally, promises to keep the brand alive and thriving. Lavo’s legacy as a hub of talent, entertainment, and culinary excellence will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the minds and palates of patrons for years to come.