Full Breakdown
Le Colonial Set to Revive Midtown Dining Scene in 2027
3/16/2026, 3:50:52 AM
Restaurant Return and Location Details
Le Colonial, a French-Vietnamese restaurant, is set to return to New York City's Midtown in the summer of 2027, occupying a space at 50 W. 57th Street, owned by Vornado Realty Trust and LeFrak. This marks the restaurant's comeback after a decade-long absence from the area, having previously operated at 149 E. 57th Street. The new location will feature 9,600 square feet across three indoor levels, along with sidewalk seating, designed in the same elegant-tropical style that characterizes its other locations in Chicago, Houston, and Delray Beach.
Impact on Midtown's Development
The return of Le Colonial is anticipated to positively influence the long-neglected block between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, which has been described as blighted. The area has seen significant development activity, with several large sites owned by developers such as Soloviev, Vornado, and Jeffries Morris. However, much of the block remains underdeveloped, with Turkish developer Sedesco having demolished buildings at 37-47 W. 57th Street but yet to file new plans with the Department of Buildings.
Key Figures Involved
Rick Wahlstedt, the founder of Le Colonial, is leading the restaurant's revival, with nightlife figure Frederick Lesort as a partner. The leasing process was facilitated by Gary Trock, who previously worked with CBRE and now operates his own firm, Retail Advisory Services, alongside partner Sam Botel.
Official Statements & Responses
Gary Trock noted that the asking rent for the new location was a blended rate of $125 per square foot, indicating a significant investment in the area's revitalization. The return of Le Colonial is seen as a crucial step in enhancing the dining options in Midtown, which has faced challenges in attracting and retaining restaurants.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Le Colonial's return, some critics may point to the ongoing development delays in the area, questioning whether the anticipated revitalization will materialize. The lack of immediate plans for the demolished sites could hinder the overall progress of the block's transformation.
What's Next
As Le Colonial prepares for its 2027 opening, the focus will be on the broader development plans for Midtown and how the restaurant's presence may catalyze further investment and interest in the area. The community and stakeholders will be watching closely to see if the anticipated revitalization of the block comes to fruition.
