Two Years Later Than Expected, Shang Packs It In

Shang, Toronto chef Susur Lee's three year old Chinese/sushi restaurant in the Thompson LES, went out with a whimper earlier this fall, quietly closing to the public after a rocky three years in business. Though many, including one Anthony Bourdain, have noted the outsize talents and TV charms of chef Lee and the undeniable success of his Toronto empire, it was the wrong restaurant at the wrong time, and it never won the popular or critical acclaim the chef needed to make it in New York. One year after the debut they were already adding sushi and dim sum, and it was noted that "Shang's transition from destination haute temple to hotel cafeteria is underway."

The hotel's concierge says there is not a new restaurant in the space yet, but guests can dine on the hotel's terrace. Maybe next time Lee will open something that isn't too advanced for New York palates.
· All Coverage of Shang [~ENY~]
· Deathwatch: Shang [~ENY~]