In New York City, Bernan and his restaurant have become a modern-day hotspot.
Since the release of a new series dramatizing the romance of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, fans have been flocking to an East Village Indian restaurant, which was featured as the couple’s first date location.
According to owner Bashir Khan, bookings at Panna II Garden surged by 40% just last weekend after FX and Hulu’s “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette” aired.
“We’ve seen a lot of couples, and many are excitedly taking pictures in the booth from the show,” Khan stated. “People ask for that specific table.”
This iconic restaurant, which opened its doors in 1989, was bustling throughout the week. Khan expressed initial skepticism, thinking that the increase in patrons was merely a Valentine’s Day phenomenon.
Panna II was depicted as the setting for JFK Jr. and Bessette’s fictional first date in the pilot episode, yet Khan mentioned they had been regular customers during the restaurant’s peak years.
When approached by the production team led by Ryan Murphy, he eagerly accepted the opportunity for filming. “When I recognized John F. Kennedy’s son, I thought, ‘Absolutely, let’s do this!’ They were part of the SoHo scene when I was around,” Khan remembered.
A diner, Michelle Zaffino, shared that she felt compelled to visit after binge-watching the show. Reflecting on her nostalgia for the 1990s, she said, “It reminded me of the vibrant lights back then; I just had to come back here.” She often draws culinary inspiration from shows like Netflix’s “Emily in Paris.”
“The producers have done a great job. It feels very authentic. It’s almost like an endorsement,” she remarked.
Panna II has a notable mention in the episode when Bessette Kennedy (portrayed by Sarah Pidgeon) emerges after her date arrives late. Still, it’s uncertain if this was indeed their first date spot.
Khan, who took over from his parents in 2001, noted that bookings are currently about 70% higher than in previous years since the show premiered on February 12. He anticipates this trend will continue as the week goes on.
In the series, Bessette Kennedy gives JFK Jr. a second chance, and they connect over a cozy meal under the restaurant’s charming string lights, culminating in their first kiss that sets the tone for their love story.
Zaffino, a nostalgic visitor, recalled her past as a fact-checker at Elle Magazine. She had seen JFK Jr. nearly every day when his magazine, George, was in the same building. “People would greet him casually. He was relatable,” she said, sharing a memory of a moment they had while she was outside smoking.
Panna II isn’t alone in benefiting from the enduring allure of the couple, whose lives were tragically cut short in a plane crash in 1999 that also claimed Bessette Kennedy’s sister, Lauren.
Fashion enthusiasts have also been drawn to CO Bigelow Pharmacy in the West Village, eager to purchase a tortoiseshell headband that Bessette was known for.
Having appeared in various shows like “Sex and the City” and “Daredevil,” Panna II is no stranger to the limelight and continues to attract customers. Khan credits both the restaurant’s excellent food and its vibrant interior for its ongoing success, especially in today’s social media-driven world.
“Running a business here can be tough, yet we’re committed to making it work,” Khan remarked. “Let’s see how we can keep thriving.” He’s not concerned about the popularity fading anytime soon, enjoying the buzz and the frequent photo sessions taking place at the restaurant. “People are enjoying themselves, and that’s what truly matters,” he concluded.
