Chef Edwin Bellanco's First Solo Effort To Be Named Vitae

Online, October 5, 2011 (Newswire.com) - As noted in today's New York Times, Chef Edwin Bellanco has chosen the name Vitae, connoting life, for the restaurant he is building at 4 East 46 Street, in midtown Manhattan, opening in December. Build out of this dining destination in the heart of business/investment banking began in September. Because of its location, Vitae will aim to serve the many dining and cocktail needs of business, with elements such as crisp menus and "cocktail hour," which should also appeal to travelers to and from Grand Central Terminal, only steps away. A substantial completion date for this project is set for November 30, 2011, with an opening date to the public just following in mid-December.

The one-word name 'Vitae' appeals to Chef Bellanco for several reasons. First, it's brief and to the point, just like his clear, compelling menu will be, and he hopes the service provided by professionally trained staff under the direction of General Manager Emily Iverson. Emily was previously at Lincoln Restaurant in New York. Edwin also likes the name Vitae because it lets guests know that this restaurant represents the sum of his career experiences in both restaurant industry and the complex world of wine.

Bellanco's history is impressive: years with chefs David Bouley (Bouley, Danube), Tom Colicchio (Gramercy Tavern), and by association, Marco Canora (various restaurants). A summer with Thomas Keller at The French Laundry. All this combined with several years directing the kitchen for Morrell Wine's restaurant at Rockefeller Center, and what results is straightforward food with intense, well-developed flavor and a broad and deep selection of wines and spirits.

Vitae is designed literally to meet the needs of midtown business. Dining will be offered up front, in the cocktail dining area, and at a long and luxurious bar, with plush seats and recessed televisions which may be turned on at the customer's request. The main dining room on the ground floor gives way to a mezzanine above, open and airy, but where dining can be private, as well. The approximately 170-seat restaurant will be served by two kitchens that will focus on a la carte and private dining simultaneously.

Vitae is the first restaurant solely owned and operated by Edwin Bellanco. As yet, there is no phone or web site address for the restaurant. For additional information, please contact Stephanie Faison at [email protected] or (908) 626-0111.