VUE

S et in the gritty yet historically art-centric Lower East Side, TAO Group's newest addition, VANDAL, celebrates a love affair between street art and street food, juxtaposing its old-school New York location with street art from internationally-recognized artists and a globally-inspired menu. Cultivated from the minds of TAO Group Co-Founder Rich Wolf and Celebrity Chef Chris Santos, every aspect of this two-level, 22,000-square-foot space possesses an element of intrigue. Featuring artwork from seven different acclaimed 'vandals', interiors by Rockwell Group and a menu influenced by the world travels of Santos and VANDAL's Executive Chef Jonathan Kavourakis, the restaurant/lounge offers guests a truly one-of-a-kind experience. "Both food and art are expressions of creativity, which is why at VANDAL, we wanted to make sure we perfected the essence that we were trying to capture," Kavourakis explained. "We wanted to ensure that both the artwork and menu complimented one another so that our guests are able to fully experience the 'worldly culture' we were hoping to portray." Upon entering, VANDAL's entryway is fronted by OVANDO, a dimly lit (and fully functional) flower shop and an almost speakeasy-style setting that envelops guests into the secret underground world of street culture. Past the greenery, one is met by a custom breakdancing bunny from Rockwell Group named Henry, who is painted in an "Icy Grape" color which is a nod to a discontinued spray paint color that resonates with the street art community. V U E N J . C O M 86 VUE ON THE ARTS

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