Shepard Ross to Open The Del at Shuttered Taste Of Lebanon

Grid View

• The Del interior rendering Photo by Studewood Hospitality Group
• The Del exterior rendering Photo courtesy of Studewood Hospitality Group
• The Del logo Photo courtesy of Studewood Hospitality Group

Restaurateur Shepard Ross and his partners at Studewood Hospitality Group have announced a new project in addition to their existing restaurants, Glass Wall and Brooklyn Athletic Club (BAC). The Del will open in the former Taste of Lebanon space located at 6565 Del Monte Drive, just off of Voss in the same block that includes Arturo Boada Cuisine and Randy Rucker's upcoming project, Bramble Restaurant.

Ross says that he and business partner Tim Jones went back and forth to come up with a name that would fit the vibe for the concept and The Del fit the bill. "We want for it to have that cool, contemporary clubby feel - without having to be a member," says Ross.

The build-out will include space inside for 65 plus a completely covered patio seating another 65 along with a back patio with games similar to those at Brooklyn Athletic Club. Sam Gianukos of the Architect/Design firm Creole Design will take the lead on construction and design.

Ross's partners, who live in the area sold him on the idea that the neighborhood is underserved. "People are looking for more choices for better food - they're dying for a place to get a great cocktail," says Ross who went on to say that it will be a place for couples on a date, family meals as well as business lunches.

As with Glass Wall and BAC, the cuisine will feature local/sustainable produce and meat from producers like 44 Farms. "It will be a little bit Glass Wall and a little bit Brooklyn," said Ross. "Think burgers, lobster wraps, club sandwiches, Gulf seafood and steaks. There will be flexibility on the price point but not above everyday dining. If people want to go all out, they can do that but they can also pop in, have an appetizer and catch a game." Ross calls it a hybridized concept - both casual and special occasion.

Ross wouldn't name any chefs to be involved at this point but expects The Del to open in the spring of 2015.