The Beekman, an upscale Upper East Side residential building, has opened a lawsuit against its tenant, the star-studded bistro Vaucluse. The building’s “lounge” has a long list of famous names frequenting, but to residents of the luxury co-op as well as the owners building, it’s been nothing but a noisy nuisance from the start.
By: Ellen Cans
As reported by the NY Post, the building owner says that the club which opened at the building in March 2018, by nightlife guru Omar Hernandez, needs to be shuttered. The Beekman alleges that the bistro Vaucluse at 575 Park Ave., which gave up half its space to Hernandez’ popular club, is violating the terms of its lease which commissions them to provide a “top tier” restaurant, not noise and vibration for the entire building.
Located in a posh Park Avenue neighborhood, the 16-story building is fully staffed, with high security features, twenty four hour doorman and concierge, hotel style amenities including valet parking, five day a week maid service, and a gym. Built in 1927 in an Italian Renaissance style by Designer George F. Pelham, it is considered one of the most prestigious white glove co-op residential on Park Avenue, as per StreetEasy. Apartments with roughly 1,500-square-feet of space and 2-bedrooms generally sell for about $2 million.
Despite the racket, it’s true that Hernandez’s club caters to luminaries and bold faced names. Spike Lee, the film director, producer, and actor, was there to celebrate the renowned Harry Belafonte’s birthday. Lee also later hosted his own Black History Month bash at the lounge. Samuel L. Jackson, Robert De Niro, Gayle King and John Turturro frequented the gathering at Omar’s ‘lounge’. Lee Radziwill, sister of Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ dined there. Disgraced broadcaster Matt Lauer, and former lawyer to President Trump, Michael Cohen have been spotted there as well. Cuba Gooding Jr, the Boyz n the Hood star, and former Gov. Eliot Spitzer have both been seen at the hot-spot. In March, Donald Trump Jr., his brother Eric and other well-knowns went to Omar’s to celebrate Kimberly Guilfoyle’s 50th birthday party.
The restaurant has denied allegations and says it has “always been a good neighbor,” as per a spokeswoman. “All parts of Vaucluse, including Omar at Vaucluse, are first class, top-tier restaurants with top-class clientele, many of which are neighbors,” Jonna Gerlich said in a statement, calling the court filing “regretful.”
