History
In a neighborhood overcrowded with corner delis, Starbucks, and Blimpy’s, eating a delicious meal seems impossible. And beckoning that cute co-worker for a day end cocktail just isn’t feasible. With that in mind, veteran bar owners and restaurateurs Chris Coco and John Gazzola came to the rescue filling the neighborhood culinary void with a scrumptious American bistro, a fully stocked bar, 9 television screens and a classy private room: Butterfield 8 Inspired by a list of old Manhattan phone codes (Butterfield was the neighborhood code until the 1960’s), the owners were further intrigued by Elizabeth Taylor’s Academy Award Winning performance in a movie by the same name. To honor a film that brings together all walks of life, Butterfield 8 promises to do just that.

Connoisseurs of comfort food and the vibrant midtown bar scene, Chris Coco and John Gazzola have embarked on this latest endeavor, determined to create a hometown feel in a bustling city. After creating the McFadden’s Saloon concept in New York and delivering it to Baltimore, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Boston, Louisville, and Rochester they created NYC’s Savannah Steak and settled into Blackfinn, a lively midtown sports pub. However, they still knew something was missing. “We felt there was a tremendous gap existing between the fine dining establishments in New York and the corner pubs and lounges that are seen everywhere. With Butterfield 8, we’re trying to provide a high-end bar scene with a moderately priced quality comfort food bistro. We believe you can do both and we know this is the market that we cater to best,” says owner, Chris Coco.

Butterfield 8 is a 100-year-old, 3000 square foot space that’s dramatic crown mold ceiling evokes the nostalgic turn of the century feel of the classy New York speakeasy. A 35-foot granite bar equipped with nine clear vision plasma flat screens blends with the wide plank walnut floors. Back lit walls of white onyx and dark mahogany along with five massive Chandeliers creating a warm semi-formal setting. Patrons feel like they can enjoy a sophisticated meal or catch the game by the bar.

Chef Masekela Jones is thrilled to be opening Butterfield 8 with John and Chris after a triumphant collaboration at Savannah Steak. Focusing on comfort food, signature items on Butterfield 8’s menu include the Butterfield Cheese Steak Sandwich made with sliced prime rib, topped with crispy onions and jalapeno cheese sauce, served on a toasted ciabatta roll. The Butterfield 8 Mac and Cheese will titillate patrons with its velvety cheese sauce along with a unique addition of jalapeños and crispy bacon. The Butterfield 8 signature cocktail is the Dirty Blue Martini made with vodka or gin and a dash of olive juice, topped off with blue cheese stuffed olives.