Zucker's Bagels and Smoked Fish has opened its third location in NYC on Columbus Ave. and 73rd Street. The owner, Zucker's Holding, saw an opportunity to create a new bakery and retail flagship for this purveyor of high-quality, authentic New York City food on the Upper West Side. The project is located on two levels in a landmarked 19th-century building, around the corner from the fabled Dakota Apartments and Central Park.
The design emerged as a celebration of textures and colors intended to complement the gastronomic delicacies on display. During the design process, probes revealed long-hidden, original historic architectural elements, many of which were restored for reuse in the space. These included a decorative tin ceiling, exposed brick walls and interior cast iron columns. Outside, cast iron storefront trim and rustic brownstone exterior walls were all uncovered and restored.
Modern additions include surfaces and furnishings made of black handcrafted steel and white oak. Black subway tile form the back wall of the service area while the seating area is an oasis of minimalist lighting and furnishings. The flooring is a sturdy gray porcelain tile throughout. The interior includes a gold-leaf mural by the artist David Bender. The project received approval from the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. Since its opening, the locale has become a neighborhood destination.
