DNAinfo reports on the battle for 240 Columbus Avenue bas relief mural
UPPER WEST SIDE — Almost two years after wealthy Central Park West residents thwarted his dream of opening a wine bar in their neighborhood, would-be restaurateur Greg Hunt is battling another formidable Upper West Side foe — preservationists.
Groups including Landmark West and the Historic Districts Council are rallying against Hunt’s plan to tear down a roughly 40-year-old mural at the entrance of 240 Columbus Ave., where he wants to open Cafe Tallulah.
They say the mural is an important remnant of Upper West Side history. Hunt says the artwork, which depicts a shirtless worker and two oxen in a sugarcane field, will clash with the theme of his upscale, French bistro style wine bar.
The Landmarks Preservation Commission must OK the mural’s demolition if Hunt is to move forward with his vision for Cafe Tallulah. At a Tuesday hearing, LPC members split on the issue, which means Hunt will have to come back for another try at approval.
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I dined at the restaurant several times, first in October 1969. It was a third rate, shabby place then, and never improved. In my opinion the plaster mural has little artistic merit and should be taken down – the corner is a perpetual eyesore. This city destroys so much heritage, what’s the point of saving this.
Meanwhile please do something about the awful pavement restaurant expansions on Columbus Avenue. If there isn’t room for a restaurant behind the original facade licenses shouldn’t be given. And if they are there or grandfathered, make them smarten up. Sometimes they are a disgrace to the neighborhood ie. between 69 and 68 the Streets –
and the foul, cracked, dirty pavements too. Who’s watching out for us?
I dined at the restaurant several times, first in October 1969. It was a third rate, shabby place then, and never improved. In my opinion the plaster mural has little artistic merit and should be taken down – the corner is a perpetual eyesore. This city destroys so much heritage, what’s the point of saving this.
Meanwhile please do something about the awful pavement restaurant expansions on Columbus Avenue. If there isn’t room for a restaurant behind the original facade licenses shouldn’t be given. And if they are there or grandfathered, make them smarten up. Sometimes they are a disgrace to the neighborhood ie. between 69 and 68 the Streets –
and the foul, cracked, dirty pavements too. Who’s watching out for us?