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new venture is emerging at the iconic Neary's building on 358 E. 57th Street, as a team of restaurateurs plans to open The Derby Club in mid-September. The brainchild of Ed Cotton and partners Chris Coco and Craig Huston, this American tavern-style venue will bring a fresh energy to the Sutton Place neighborhood.

    "We're aiming for a vibe similar to 4 Charles Prime Rib or Minetta Tavern downtown," said Cotton, who drew inspiration from these iconic eateries. "The area was lacking something like that." The Derby Club will occupy the same 1,800 square-foot space as its predecessor, with about 44 table seats and bar stools.

    While the interior design won't resemble Neary's exactly, Huston noted that they've retained the classic floor layout, including the bar in its original front location. A striking mural by Philadelphia-based Bird Studio will adorn the walls, depicting a historical landscape of Sutton Place and the East River.

    The Martignetti brothers, who purchased the building for $3.2 million last year, initially planned to open their own restaurant at the site but ultimately decided against it after being impressed by The Derby Club's concept. "They came to us after seeing our places and liked what we did," Huston said. Cotton expressed his pride in carrying on Neary's legacy: "Opening The Derby Club in this historic location is an honor, as it has been a landmark for New York hospitality for generations."