Grand Brasserie by Vizz Group and Rockwell Group

Located within the historic Vanderbilt Hall in New York’s Grand Central Terminal, Grand Brasserie immerses diners in the French culinary experience.

To New Yorkers and tourists alike, Grand Central Terminal is more than just a transportation hub; it is a national landmark in Beaux-Arts style that speaks proudly to the evolution of the city. Its enduring significance is reflected in Grand Brasserie, which is housed in its Vanderbilt Hall and adjoining, more intimate space. Developed by Vizz Group in collaboration with Rockwell Group, the 400-seat restaurant embraces its storied architecture while fostering an elegant ambience. “When we were working on the design with Rockwell Group, we took inspiration from Paris but also, mainly, the terminal itself,” explains Justin Blatstein, president of Vizz Group. “We wanted something that recognised the beauty of the building and went along with Grand Central.” In keeping with its architectural setting, the restaurant represents a departure from everyday life, beckoning visitors with curvaceous furniture, warm lighting and a curated soundscape.

The acoustics of Grand Brasserie are carefully considered to overcome the challenges posed by its size and stone foundation.

“Sound is almost everything in a restaurant,” says Blatstein. “It sets the mood; it sets the tone. It creates something that people will definitely remember.” The acoustics of Grand Brasserie are carefully considered to overcome the challenges posed by its size and stone foundation. Sensorium House, tasked with achieving the desired outcome, selected Devialet Phantom speakers to produce prominent, directional sound that can be heard even when the restaurant is full. “Devialet is one of our favourite brands, especially in a commercial environment where we need to deliver balanced sound to all areas,” says Bryan Bilgore, president of Sensorium House. “Devialet’s Phantoms have the most power per square foot, allowing us to increase treble and bass where necessary without any of the distortion you might encounter in a less effective system.” Custom mounts enable the speakers to be secured to purpose-built surfaces positioned ahead of existing walls, ensuring sound coverage throughout the interior while preserving the original building. “The patrons of the restaurant are expecting to feel totally immersed, and that requires not just the cuisine and service but also the soundscape we create,” says Bilgore.

“To foster an experience inside a location that means something to New Yorkers, we did not take the task lightly,” says Blatstein. “We assembled an amazing team to establish a restaurant that people really remember.” Anchored by historic architecture, Grand Brasserie emerges as a highlight of Grand Central Terminal.

Interior design by Rockwell Group. Development by Vizz Group Acoustic engineering by Devialet.