By: Johnny Rodz

Vornado Realty Trust has secured a significant addition to its Penn District, as the renowned Greek seafood restaurant Avra Estiatorio has finalized a lease for a sprawling new establishment within the iconic Farley Building. Situated at the corner of Ninth Avenue and West 33rd Street, this culinary expansion promises to elevate the Penn District’s stature as a premier destination for office space and leisure activities.

NYC’s most popular daily paper the NY Post reported on this exciting development.

The decision to establish a Homeric-scale eatery within the Farley Building underscores both the ambition of Avra Group owners Nick Tsoulos and Nick Pashalis and Vornado’s strategic vision for the West 30s near Penn Station and Madison Square Garden. Recognizing the demand for high-quality dining experiences in the area, Vornado chairman Steve Roth emphasized the necessity of integrating food-driven components to attract office tenants and compete effectively with neighboring districts.

Set to open next year, the new Avra venue will span an impressive 20,000 square feet, featuring over 6,000 square feet of outdoor space at the Farley Building’s northwest corner. Designed by Shawn Sullivan of Rockwell Group, the same firm behind the acclaimed Avra Madison on East 60th Street, the establishment promises a captivating ambiance and unparalleled dining experience.

Vornado’s executive vice-president Ed Hogan expressed confidence in Avra’s ability to meet the discerning standards of the Penn District, emphasizing the importance of partnering with globally respected restaurateurs. Avra’s strategic location adjacent to Meta’s expansive campus within the Farley Building further enhances its appeal, complementing the vibrant Moynihan Food Hall and other dining establishments within the vicinity.

Vornado’s extensive portfolio in the Penn District, totaling 10 million square feet between Sixth and Ninth Avenues, reflects a substantial investment exceeding $2 billion. With a focus on enhancing public amenities and pedestrian infrastructure, Vornado has positioned the district as a dynamic hub with unparalleled access to transportation options.

Looking ahead, Vornado remains committed to further revitalizing the Penn District, with ambitious plans for the redevelopment of properties such as the former Pennsylvania Hotel site. As Avra Group prepares to unveil its latest culinary venture, Vornado’s ongoing efforts underscore its dedication to shaping the Penn District into a thriving nexus of commerce, culture, and culinary excellence.

The Farley Building, located at Ninth Avenue and West 33rd Street, stands as an iconic landmark in New York City. Originally constructed as the James A. Farley Post Office Building, it was repurposed and reimagined into a modern commercial and transportation hub. Spanning an impressive footprint, the Farley Building boasts architectural grandeur and historical significance, reflecting the city’s rich heritage.

In recent years, the Farley Building has undergone extensive renovations and redevelopment efforts, transforming it into a vibrant mixed-use complex. Home to Meta’s expansive campus and the bustling Moynihan Train Hall, the building serves as a bustling nexus of activity, blending commerce, culture, and community in the heart of Manhattan. With its strategic location and state-of-the-art amenities, the Farley Building continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the urban landscape and fostering economic growth in the surrounding Penn District.