Hospitality visionary Josh Kessler and acclaimed Chef John Creger announced the opening of The Lotus Room, a transcendent modern Asian dining experience paired with a hidden speakeasy, Confessional. Having opened September 9th at 114 West 47th Street in Manhattan’s Theater District, The Lotus Room merges contemporary Asian cuisine with immersive storytelling, sophisticated design and nightly entertainment, setting a new benchmark for culinary and experiential dining in New York City.
Guided by Executive Chef John Creger, The Lotus Room offers a dynamic interpretation of Asian cuisine, influenced by his deep culinary roots and experiences in some of New York’s most prestigious kitchens, including Picholine and Public, Gallow Green and five-diamond rated Dominick Hotel. Chef Creger’s menu reflects both heritage and a passion for innovation. Guests can expect a rotating menu of seasonal specials, creative tasting menus and à la carte offerings.
Menu highlights include: Black Truffle Lobster Dumplings – butter-poached lobster, black truffle soy butter, yuzu ponzu Stir-Fried Snap Peas & Lotus Root – spicy ginger scallion sauce, peanuts, cilantro Wagyu Skewers – soy, brown sugar and gochujang-marinated, black garlic aioli, purple sweet potato Chinese Pearl Meatballs – Sweet Soy Glaze0
The beverage program, helmed by acclaimed Mixologist Valenda Richardson, complements the cuisine with bold, imaginative cocktails rooted in technique and inspired by distinct flavor profiles.
With interiors that draw inspiration from the mystique of Imperial Japan and the bold minimalism of contemporary Asian art, the restaurant unfolds across four carefully curated spaces. The main dining room is a moody, sculptural environment accented by pearl-glow pendants and dark wood detailing, anchored by a performance stage for live acts and curated experiences. The private dining room, wrapped in Versace wallpaper, offers an intimate space for gatherings and celebrations. At the omakase-style bar, guests can interact directly with mixologists across a refined sushi and cocktail counter. The venue’s hidden speakeasy, Confessional, lies concealed behind a restored 1899 antique church confessional. Inside, guests discover a world of elevated mixology, curated sounds and theatrical ambiance.
“We’re excited to bring The Lotus Room to NYC’s Theater District. Every dish is rooted in tradition but reimagined through a modern lens—elevated ingredients, unexpected pairings and constant exploration,” said Executive Chef John Creger.
Whether guests are seeking a transportive dinner or a night of cocktails and conversation, The Lotus Room and Confessional offer a layered, luxurious hospitality experience. Located at 114 West 47th Street, New York, NY, the venue is open Tuesday through Sunday, 5 PM – late.
Reservations can be made through Resy.
