Executive Chef Vincenzo Garofalo Debuts Innovative New Menu at TwoE Bar & Lounge At The Pierre NY, A Taj Hotel


 Newly appointed Executive Chef Vincenzo Garofalo is taking a fresh look at the menus for The Pierre NY.   He has launched a creative new palette of delectable light bites in TwoE Bar & Lounge to accompany the extensive list of signature cocktails and wines, whiskeys, bourbons, tequilas, and other bar favorites.   The menu includes a selection of traditional favorites like the beef sliders, truffle fries and shrimp cocktail as well as new items like miniature tuna tartare tacos and smoked salmon toast.  This is the first of many new food and beverage upgrades which will accompany the celebration of The Pierre’s 95th Anniversary.

In a nod to the Indian culture of Taj Hotels which operates The Pierre, Chef Garofalo has included items such as homemade samosas with peas, potatoes, cumin and mint chutney and chicken tikka featuring tender chicken morsels seasoned with Indian spices and mint chutney.  Lighter fare includes an Impossible Meatball; fresh briny, raw oysters with beausoleil, mignonette and cocktail sauces;  a classic club sandwich; and an authentic mezze platter with babaganoush, hummus and tzatziki dips all made on the premises.

“In creating the menu, it was important to strike the right notes for our sophisticated clientele – especially on evenings when TwoE features the jazz performances.   Many clients stop in after work or spending the day shopping along Fifth Avenue and want a menu that goes beyond the typical bar food,” explains Executive Chef Garofalo.

All foods in TwoE are made on premise in The Pierre kitchens from seasonal, fresh ingredients.

TwoE offers a weekly lineup of captivating live jazz performances in an elegant, intimate setting.  The January lineup features evenings with The Modern Martinis – Darin Brown and Melanie Goerlitz – performing favorites from the American Songbook; Latin Jazz with Anita Donndorff and Soul, Funk & Jazz with Jesse Wagner and Break Out The Crazy.   Performances run Thursday through Saturday from 8:00pm – 11:00pm.  No reservations required.  Go to www.thepierreny.com for further information on dates and times or call Perrine 212 940-8195.

Executive Chef Vincenzo Garofalo brings a wealth of culinary experience honed in some of the world’s finest kitchens.  Born and raised in Italy, he graduated from culinary school in Naples before gaining invalulable experience at Michelin-starred establishments across Italy.   In 2013, Executive Chef Garofalo moved to New York City, where he served as Executive Sous Chef at Sirio Ristorante at The Pierre Hotel, followed by his role as Chef de Cuisine at the iconic Le Cirque.  He also ran his own highly rated restaurant, Senso Unico in Sunnyside, New York.

In 2023 Chef Garofalo returned to The Pierre as Executive Banquet Chef, bringing with him a well-rounded skill set in culinary arts, procurement, budgeting and leadership.  His commitment to excellence and innovation makes him a key figure in the evolving world of hospitality.

About TwoE

Originally the Gentlemen’s Library when The Pierre opened in 1930, TwoE Bar & Lounge has become one of the most beloved venues at The Pierre NY, A Taj Hotel. Designed by Alexandra Champalimaud to reflect a chic Upper East Side residence, TwoE retains its original molding details on ceiling and columns. The Neoclassical design features an eclectic mix of custom furnishings in warm woods, with scattered groupings of chairs, upholstered armchairs and banquettes adjoining low pedestal tables.  At night, TwoE transforms into a stylish bar that serves up handcrafted cocktails complemented by small plates. A Neo-Classical lounge, TwoE was designed to reflect a chic Upper East Side residence. http://www.thepierreny.com/dining/twoebar/

About The Pierre NY, A Taj Hotel

A New York icon, The Pierre NY, A Taj Hotel continues to set the standard for timeless elegance and unrivaled hospitality in New York City for more than 90 years. Situated on Central Park, The Pierre has remained a landmark treasured by visitors and New Yorkers alike since opening in 1930. The hotel’s 189 rooms, 49 of which are suites, offer classic design with couture touches, abundant natural light, and high ceilings. First‐rate amenities include white‐gloved elevator attendants, and a Les Clefs d’Or Concierge team. Exquisite entertaining is synonymous with The Pierre, and its opulent newly reimagined Grand Ballroom, Cotillion Room, and Rotunda continue to host New York’s most unforgettable events, while chic, multi‐functional meeting rooms welcome private gatherings, from intimate closing dinners to annual shareholder meetings. The Pierre’s robust food and beverage program boasts gourmet room service, and a bespoke cocktail program in the Lounge, seasonal fare with outdoor seating at signature restaurant Perrine and indulgent cuisine in the whimsical Rotunda. Follow The Pierre on Instagram, Facebook, & X, @thepierreny.  http://www.thepierreny.com

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