How a restaurateur went from clubby restaurants to wellness fast casual
Scott Sartiano is a veteran in the hospitality industry, especially known for opening buzzy spots that attract a celebrity clientele. His locales were some of the earliest to marry the concept of fine dining with a clubby atmosphere. "When we created Butter [in New York City] in 2001, we were the first to put a DJ in our restaurant," he says. "People thought we were crazy; a few years later, Jean-Georges [Vongerichten] was doing it."
It's emblematic of the times that one of Sartiano's current projects is the health-forward, fast casual eatery Broken Coconut. Locations are scattered throughout the city including in the Gotham West Market and at Equinox Hudson Yards. The lineup includes dishes like poke bowls, vegan coconut yogurt, avocado toast, açai, and more. "We wanted to have a healthy yet craveable food experience," he explains. "What you eat affects your mental and physical states—it's all intertwined."
Sartiano spoke with Furthermore about the inspiration behind the brand, his favorite menu items, and how he approaches fitness.