Grand Central Terminal is getting ready for its big Centennial next year, and it hopes to add two more restaurants in 2013. Today, it's been announced that the MTA will ask restaurateurs to RFP for two new spaces in the glorious landmark building.
According to a press release, "The MTA is making available the west side of Vanderbilt Hall (the former main waiting room) for an eatery whose operations include a casual sit-down restaurant and adjacent takeout area. Also, an undeveloped space above the Terminal’s popular Grand Central Market will be available later this year for development as a sit-down restaurant and bar. This is the first time these two large new spaces have become available for lease."
The Vanderbilt Hall space has about 12,300 square feet. The second floor space above Grand Central Market is currently being used by the the Grand Central police—that has about 4,700 square feet. The MTA’s Director of Grand Central Terminal Development, Nancy Marshall, said, Vanderbilt Hall is visually stunning, and a restaurant above the vibrant Grand Central Market promises to have tremendous cachet."
About 750,000 people come into the Grand Central Terminal daily. With the new Apple Store and an in-the-works Shake Shack, the MTA seems to be trying to make sure their digital and culinary needs are met. MTA Chairman Joseph J. Lhota said, "Grand Central will always be the greatest train station in the United States and the crown jewel of the MTA’s transportation network. It’s a focal point for the economic and social life of the region and a superb setting for the daily business of moving people. At the same time, over the past 15 years, it’s also been transformed into one of the world’s most well-known destinations for shopping and dining. These latest additions will only heighten its reputation."
