A recent comic describes the “steam chimneys” in Manhattan.
I seem to recall a cafe/club/restaurant in SoHo, across from one of those chimneys, that was named something like Smokestack. I can’t find references to it, my Manhattan brother doesn’t remember it and neither do the New Yorkers on another conferencing system. The chimneys are supposed to be temporary, and I thought it was strange that this one persisted long enough for someone to name a restaurant after it. Does this ring a bell with anyone?
I spent a fair amount of time in Soho starting in the late 80s. I can’t recall a place with the name Smokestack. It seems unlikely that your theory linking name to the chimney happened. Most know what is billowing out was steam not smoke. For a club with an infrastructure related name I will offer the Tunnel Club. Not Soho though. Anyone else reminded of the movie After Hours? I love that movie.
Also, reading through back issues of New York Magazine (free on Google Books) could help jog your memory. The CUE section in the back listed a lot of restaurants and bars by neighborhood.
Gaslite Cafe used to be on macdougal near bleeker, it had other locations, i dunno smokestack, gaslite…sounds like before your time…i like your research good luck!
back in the early 1980s, my “to be” husband & i spent many long nights at “smokes”. a very comfortable bar, bartenders knew patrons & their drinks. they would set up our choice even before we sat down. we left the area & returned about 2 years later & they welcomed us & set up our drinks without even asking. awesome place. too many good times. thanks for reminding me. wonder what’s there now. it will always have a fond spot in my heart.
