From BBQ to Fine Dining: Hometown's Billy Durney Makes Manhattan Move
Billy Durney, the mastermind behind Brooklyn's beloved Hometown Bar-B-Que, is making waves in the New York restaurant scene with his ambitious leap into Manhattan fine dining. The pitmaster-turned-restaurateur, known for transforming Red Hook into a barbecue destination, is now setting his sights on elevating his culinary repertoire.
Durney's new venture marks a significant departure from the casual, smoke-filled atmosphere of his Brooklyn establishment. The yet-to-be-named Manhattan restaurant promises to showcase his versatility as a chef while maintaining the commitment to quality that made Hometown a sensation. Industry insiders note that this move reflects a growing trend of successful casual dining operators expanding into the fine dining sphere.
The new establishment, slated to open in late 2024, will feature a carefully curated menu that goes beyond the smoked meats that made Durney famous. While specific details remain under wraps, early reports suggest a focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques, with influences drawn from Durney's extensive travels and diverse culinary background.
This expansion comes at a time when Manhattan's fine dining scene is experiencing a renaissance, with diners increasingly seeking elevated experiences that combine exceptional food with a more relaxed atmosphere. Durney's approach to hospitality, which emphasizes accessibility and warmth alongside culinary excellence, appears well-positioned to meet this evolving demand.
As the project develops, the restaurant industry watches with keen interest to see how Durney's signature style will translate to the more formal dining environment of Manhattan. This move represents not just a personal evolution for Durney, but potentially a broader shift in how we think about the boundaries between casual and fine dining.
