**A Culinary Journey Through Time: Chef Angie Maher’s Newest Venture, Restaurant Lee**
In the bustling world of fine dining, new ideas can be as hard to find as a needle in a haystack. But Chef Angie Maher believes that looking into the past not only helps to appreciate the history of cuisine but also sheds light on where the culinary world is headed. As the proud owner of Restaurant Lee in New York, Maher’s journey began in her family’s restaurant in Seattle, where she discovered her love for food. With a family legacy steeped in gastronomy, Maher’s passion for cuisine was ignited at an early age—specifically during a memorable fine dining experience when she was just eight years old.
The restaurant experience that stuck with her was at Canas in Seattle—coincidentally opened the same year her family’s restaurant started serving customers. After a brief timeout for mischief, Maher returned to the dining room, forever altered by the ambiance and beauty that surrounded her. That moment sparked her lifelong quest of creating similar experiences for guests. Fast forward to today, and she is not only creating those memories but also preserving a piece of New York’s rich history through her latest establishment.
Restaurant Lee is nestled in the historic Beatric Inn, which dates back to the early 1900s. Originally one of New York’s first speakeasies frequented by literary legends like Fitzgerald and Hemingway, the Beatric evolved over the decades into various incarnations, including a lively nightclub. When Maher purchased the venue, she embraced her role as a steward of history, honoring the restaurant’s storied past while crafting a menu that reflects both classic French roots and her own Chinese heritage with a French twist. The ambiance of Lee captures the essence of New York while providing diners with an experience as timeless as the city itself.
However, the path to opening Restaurant Lee was not without its challenges. The pandemic of 2020 forced the closure of the Beatric Inn, stunning the entire restaurant industry. But inspiration often rises from adversity, and Maher took the opportunity to redefine her vision. Her new restaurant aimed to offer a blank canvas to showcase her culinary artistry, where diners could savor dishes that not only tell her story but reflect a world of flavors. With a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for quality, Maher crafted a menu that encapsulates her journey through food.
At Restaurant Lee, the culinary experience goes beyond just a meal; it’s about mentorship and growth within the restaurant community. Maher takes pride in fostering the next generation of chefs, instilling the values of teamwork and communication among her staff. The environment encourages continuous learning and creativity, where minor mistakes can lead to significant lessons. The restaurant’s staff works diligently to exceed guests’ expectations, resulting in a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying exceptional cuisine.
One standout item on Lee’s menu, a remnant from the original Beatric Inn, is the famed Leberger. Often dubbed the “Birkin bag of burgers” by Vogue, this culinary gem draws in burger aficionados and has even earned its own master class. With a proprietary blend made from 90% dry-aged ribeye, it boasts a flavor that has captivated a dedicated following. Restaurant Lee’s commitment to excellence is evident in each dish served and the unforgettable memories created, proving that even in a competitive culinary landscape, innovation and tradition can—and should—coexist.
As Maher continues her culinary journey, she remains dedicated to providing guests with unforgettable dining experiences. After all, everyone remembers those meals that changed their lives, and with each exquisite dish served at Restaurant Lee, Maher and her team aim to deliver that magic night after night. With a spirit of innovation grounded in respect for culinary history, this restaurant is poised to make its mark in New York’s vibrant dining scene, one unforgettable meal at a time.
