Jungle Vibes Meet City Lights: Gitano Opens at Seaport

Are you ready to swap the concrete jungle for a tropical paradise? Gitano, the popular jungle-themed hotspot, is setting up shop at Pier 17 in the South Street Seaport. This isn't your average restaurant and club; it's a massive, nearly 14, 000 square-foot space spread across two levels. The new owners, Seaport Entertainment Group (SEG), have snagged their first major deal with this exciting addition. Pier 17 is already home to some big names like Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Fulton and Andrew Carmellini’s Carne Mare. But now, it's getting a taste of Mexico with Gitano. Previously, Gitano had a summer pop-up in Soho and then moved to Governors Island. But this new location is set to be its US flagship, blending the energy of New York with the luxury of the Yucatan. Imagine this: a giant disco ball hanging from a 30-foot-high ceiling, offering stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge. It's a unique fusion of jungle vibes, sophisticated design, and an exclusive dance club. The new club will replace Koko’s Pearl Alley bar area, bringing a fresh vibe to the pier. SEG took over the entire Seaport last summer, replacing the previous owner, Howard Hughes Corporation. The complex is a mix of old and new, with historic buildings housing shops like McNally Jackson Books, recreational spots like the Lawn Club, and modern attractions like IPIC cinemas. Grupo Gitano’s CEO, James Gardner, sees this new location as a perfect blend of New York’s creativity and the laid-back luxury of the Yucatan. Seaport Entertainment CEO Anton Nikodemus is also excited about Gitano’s mix of nightlife, entertainment, and Mexican-inspired food and cocktails. Gitano isn't just expanding in the US; it recently opened a large outpost in Dubai and operates a resort hotel in Tulum. So, if you're looking for a tropical getaway without leaving the city, Gitano at Pier 17 is the place to be.