Last week’s press preview at Shaver Food Hall was not for people with small appetites. I enjoyed checking out not only the restaurants but the bar that’s the centerpiece of the hall—interestingly enough, it is called Layaway in honor of being in the former Lord & Taylor space!
Two wonderful and creative anchor eateries are Pick & Cheese which has numerous numbered plates cheeses from NY State, Vermont and California creameries going around on a conveyor belt, and Tallow Steakhouse which takes pride in offered a three course dinner that includes your choice of three types of steaks (Tenderloin pieces, Hangar and Ribeye) for $49.99. Tallow has the classic New York steakhouse look with its leather banquettes and dark wood finishes—and it’s got a satellite “station” called Tallow Butcher just outside which can get you amazing items like steak salads and juicy burgers to go!
Named after Dorothy Shaver, the pioneering president of Lord & Taylor, the 35,000-square-foot destination combines historic New York architecture with a modern collection of restaurants, bars, and food stalls. The hall was designed as a gathering place for office workers, commuters, tourists, and local food lovers, with seating areas, cocktail spaces, and grab-and-go options spread throughout the beautifully restored interior.
One of the biggest attractions inside Shaver Hall is its lineup of chef-driven food booths. I was immediately drawn to F & F Pizzeria for not only its legend of being the best pizza out of the old school Italian neighborhood Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, but because of its amazing “white slice” (actually named Cacio & Pepe) calling my name! Visitors can stop at ZaZu Mediterranean Street Food for halal shawarma, falafel, wraps, and grain bowls made with fresh ingredients. Burger fans can head to aforementioned Tallow Butcher for burgers, hand-cut fries, and premium meats, while pizza lovers can enjoy slices from the celebrated Brooklyn favorite F&F Pizzeria. The food hall also features concepts ranging from tacos and Indian flavors to ramen and specialty sandwiches, creating a true cross-section of New York dining under one roof. Seafood, sushi, and Japanese cuisine also play an important role in the hall’s offerings. Chef BK Park’s Norihana showcases carefully prepared Japanese dishes, while a premium omakase counter brings an upscale dining experience to the food hall environment.
For those of you wondering what is left of Lord & Taylor’s legendary flagship store which houses Shaver Hall…well, I did a thorough search of L&T artifacts at the press/influencer event two nights ago. There are tons of framed store signs, photos, ads and correspondence in the very back of the hall on either side (after the booths end), a jewelry department desk serving as the check in podium at the aforementioned Tallow Steakhouse, and all the original first floor columns (which have been refurnished). All the brass hardware on the outer doors is intact so the entrances still have the department store feel. Former L&T president Mrs. Dorothy Shaver is undoubtedly looking down from heaven and feeling proud!
Shaver Hall is being touted as “a food hall like no other” and from my experiences, they are indeed keeping their word! It goes without saying that the best way to kick off your Shaver Hall experience is to head to Layover for one of their signature cocktails or mocktails (try the Watermelon Highball mocktail which contains fresh watermelon juice for a some super summer refreshment)! Monday through Friday, 8PM until closing there are $10 wines on tap, $10 cocktails on tap and $6 beers on top! Speaking of beer, there are dozens on tap for self service on a wall in the very rear of the building! For more info, visit shaverhall.com.
