New York City’s latest culinary hotspot, set to grace the former Lord & Taylor flagship at 424 Fifth Avenue, will pay tribute to a trailblazing figure in retail history.
Named in honor of Dorothy Shaver, the renowned first female president of Lord & Taylor in 1945, Shaver Hall spans an expansive 35,000 square feet within Amazon’s “Hank” building. This forthcoming dining destination, slated for a spring or summer debut, is curated by the Food Hall Co. and promises a vibrant mix of over 10 food stalls, including beloved names like Chick Chick and Taqueria Al Pastor, complemented by two bars, a bodega, and live music.
The choice of Shaver as its namesake underscores a fusion of past and present, celebrating her pioneering leadership and influence in American fashion. Her legacy of promoting domestic designers during World War II, pivotal in reshaping U.S. fashion away from Parisian mimicry, resonates with the spirit of innovation and community at Shaver Hall.
Julie Satow, author of “When Women Ran Fifth Avenue,” expressed initial surprise at the name but recognized its significance in commemorating Shaver’s groundbreaking achievements. She highlighted Shaver’s journey from a small town in Arkansas to becoming a trailblazing executive, earning accolades such as “America’s No. 1 Career Woman” from Life magazine.
The design ethos of Shaver Hall aims to incorporate elements reminiscent of Lord & Taylor’s distinctive style, embracing rich colors and collaborations with emerging artists. This approach reflects Shaver’s own forward-thinking approach to fashion and community engagement.
As Shaver Hall prepares to open its doors, it stands poised not only as a culinary destination but also as a homage to Dorothy Shaver’s enduring legacy of leadership and innovation in American retail history.