by Sandi Durell . . .
With the help of Tom D’Angora, the West Bank Cafe/Laurie Beechman Theatre may have a chance of surviving the recently announced closing after 46 years on Theatre Row. GoFundMe: Help the West Bank Cafe survive and thrive
The space on West 42nd Street, in the midst of the theater district, has been a mainstay for theater-goers, tourists and more. Owner/host Steve Olsen has helmed both the restaurant and helped bring many a talent to the Laurie Beechman Theatre downstairs. From tried and true performers of the American Songbook to experimental theater, drag, comics and so much more, it was one of Hell’s Kitchen’s most popular haunts.
The high cost of doing business and paying rising rents along with Covid 19 have, of course, contributed.
Many of the Theater Pizzazz writers, as well as myself, were frequent patrons at both and I especially loved the roasted chicken with mashed potatoes and spinach. Delicious!
The August closing date has been delayed at this point. Visit and reminisce with Steve and staff as he moves forward.
