Nightlife entrepreneurs Will Makris and Eytan Sugarman are collaborating to open Dandelion, a new upscale cocktail lounge in New York City’s West Village, taking over the space once occupied by the beloved Hangar Bar, which closed after 30 years of service. This venture marks their first business partnership together, aiming to create a sophisticated neighborhood spot that honors the location’s history while introducing a refined atmosphere.
The announcement, made public on September 3, 2025, reveals that Makris, a co-owner of the exclusive private club Zero Bond, and Sugarman, proprietor of the historic White Horse Tavern, are friends of 25 years but have never worked professionally until now. Sources indicate that Dandelion will feature a food menu and crafted cocktails, targeting patrons seeking an elegant alternative to the area’s more casual establishments. The lounge is set to embody the polish of their previous projects while incorporating a distinct West Village edge.
Located at 115 Christopher Street, the venue holds significant historical value as the home of the Hangar Bar from 1993 until its sudden closure earlier this year. The Hangar was a cornerstone of the local gay community, renowned for its diverse and inclusive environment, particularly welcoming older gay Black men. Publications like Gothamist praised it as having the most ethnically mixed crowd at a gay bar, and New York Magazine highlighted its vibrant scene, including weekly pool tournaments and entertainment.
Dandelion is designed to transform the space into a chic watering hole that emphasizes quality beverages and dining experiences. Insiders describe it as an upscale venue where guests can sip martinis rather than wait in line for nearby pizza spots, blending elegance with the neighborhood’s bohemian roots. The project aims to fill the void left by the Hangar’s closure while respecting its legacy of community and diversity.
Will Makris brings extensive experience from his role at Zero Bond, co-owned with Scott Sartiano, and from previous ownership of Lola Taverna and management of Cocina Alba, which has locations in New York and Los Angeles. Eytan Sugarman has a rich background in hospitality, including stints at Justin Timberlake’s Southern Hospitality and Anthony Scaramucci’s Hunt & Fish, before acquiring the White Horse Tavern in 2019 through his company, Hudson Street Hospitality, which also operates Ambra and Made In New York Pizza.
The opening of Dandelion represents a new chapter for a historically significant location, underscoring the dynamic evolution of New York City’s nightlife. The Hangar Bar was celebrated for fostering a sense of sanctuary and social connection, and its transformation highlights broader trends in urban entertainment towards intimate, quality-focused venues. This venture not only reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of its founders but also the ongoing balance between preservation and innovation in culturally rich neighborhoods.
As preparations for Dandelion’s launch continue, the community’s response will be closely watched, potentially influencing future developments in the West Village. The success of this upscale lounge could set a precedent for reimagining historic spaces while maintaining their character, ensuring that the area’s nightlife continues to evolve thoughtfully and inclusively.