Humankind has had a primordial gravitation towards the shiny and mystifying since its inception, and that urge is exactly what Space54 looks to invoke with its luminous space in East Midtown Manhattan. Not sure what to expect in my visit, I was pleasantly surprised by every delicate touch put into maintaining the experience for each guest.
A waitress presents a sample of the venue’s small bites
Several guests enjoying their time at Space54
Stepping into the locale, I was instantly met with ornate decor and vividly lit displays of food and drink. The lighting was dim but sharp, and had an electric energy that fueled me into a headspace I hadn’t felt in months. Everything had been meticulously arranged; nothing without purpose, and everything contributing to a wintry theme—bedazzled wreaths hanging on every wall, and glimmering metal snowflakes strung from the ceiling top. The word “ostentatious” came to my mind, but not in the negative sense—this place had embraced it, and had earned it.
A sample of the offerings at the sushi bar
These performers stole the show when they arrived
Several waiters and waitressed strolled around the perimeter with plates of food, including spinach puffs, beef tacos, and ceviche. The open bar was working nonstop with Space54’s own killer proprietary cocktails that utilized exotic fruits and tantalizing liquors. There was also a full open sushi bar, serving every variety of sushi I could imagine. I liked the avocado rolls best, dipped into soy sauce and some pickled ginger placed on top. I spent considerable time there.
A performer with her dazzling full-body costume
While enjoying the drinks and food, I could not help but admire the effort put forth by the personnel in creating exciting and memorable encounters for the guests. An employee was always ready to pick up my empty glass or plate. I could see dancers donning full embezzled costumes, wearing stunning two-foot jewel crowns, posing with guests in a convenient photo-op spot.
Later into the night, two dancers wearing show-stopping full reflective mosaic-mirror suits, complete with spherical Epcot-style helmets that gave an otherworldly appearance, entered the floor. My jaw simply hit the ground. I could only marvel at the sheer engineering, and as an extension, the effort put forth by the owners in creating an environment that transports you away.
Elvira Grau, the owner
I had a chance to talk to one of the owners, Elvira Grau. She, along with her husband Jim, founded the company Space Events, and opened Space54 in 2019. She was incredibly welcoming, and made sure I was having a good time in the limited time we spoke. She was extremely proud of her venue, and had clearly put the effort in to maintain the atmosphere to the highest degree. After she bid me farewell, I could see her walking up to attend to another guest.
My time at the Space54 location was an incredibly pleasant one. All of the guests were having a marvelous time, and the utmost attention was given to the smallest details to maintain the atmosphere and energy. They specialize in all types of events, from corporate outings to sweet 16s. Knowing how well they take care of guests, I know anyone who plans their event at Space54 will not be disappointed.
