New Cocktail Lounge Opening in the Heart of the West Village

Will McChris and Eitan Sugarman, prominent figures in nightlife, are teaming up to launch a new cocktail lounge that will serve as a vibrant addition to their cherished gay community. This spot will also house their hangar bar.

This collaboration marks the first venture between Makris, a co-owner of Zero Bond, and Sugarman, who has a rich background in hospitality, having worked with notable names like Justin Timberlake and Anthony Scaramucci. According to a source, they share a friendship that spans 25 years.

The duo is set to unveil a trendy venue named Dandelion on Christopher Street, complete with a food menu.

“They’re transforming it into a premium spot for those looking for a martini instead of waiting in line for slices from L’industrie Pizza down the road,” the insider noted. “It will have the sophistication of their other projects but carry that unique vibe of the West Village.”

It seems they have quite a legacy to uphold.

The location at 115 Christopher Street was home to the hangar from 1993 until early this year.

A tribute to the hangar referenced its role as a beloved gathering place, especially among a diverse audience of primarily gay men. It was described as a welcoming space and significant sanctuary for older gay black men.

Back in 2014, Gossa Mist referred to it as having “the most ethnically mixed crowd in a gay bar,” according to New York magazine.

Makris is connected to the exclusive private club Zero Bond and was formerly associated with 1OAK. He also co-owns popular restaurants like Laura Taberna and Cocina Alba, with branches in both New York and Los Angeles.

Sugarman acquired the historic White Horse Tavern in 2019, a place rich in Bohemian history. His Hudson Street Hospitality also owns Umbra, focusing on New York-style pizza.

The hangar bar has been a lively staple of the West Village gay scene for three decades.