Netflix Chef Andrew Sargent Signs 3,133-SF Lease for Caroline Restaurant in Manhattan's Flatiron District

Netflix cooking competition winner Andrew Sargent has signed a 10-year lease to open his first New York City restaurant at 16 West 18th Street in Manhattan's Flatiron District, according to an announcement from RIPCO Real Estate Real Estate. The deal totals 3,133 square feet.

Deal Details: Caroline Restaurant at 16 West 18th Street

The lease encompasses 1,881 square feet on the ground floor and 1,252 square feet of basement space at the property known as Louie, located at 16 West 18th Street. The asking rent was $150 per square foot. The restaurant, to be called Caroline, is expected to open in the spring of 2027.

The property is part of a two-building condominium complex — the other building being 21 West 17th Street — developed by Vinbaytel Property Development. The building topped out construction in July 2024 and features 21 full-floor condo units, according to New York YIMBY.

Brokers

RIPCO Real Estate's Benjamin Davis represented the landlord in the transaction. RIPCO's Dillon Ross and Jon Paul Pirraglia, along with Craig Molesphini from Corcoran, represented Sargent and the restaurant.

"Andrew represents the next generation of culinary talent, and Caroline is exactly the type of destination concept that continues to elevate Manhattan's dining scene," Davis said in a statement. "His combination of world-class training, national recognition, and a fresh perspective on hospitality made this an exciting opportunity for everyone involved."

Chef Andrew Sargent and the Caroline Concept

Sargent, 30, won the first season of Netflix's cooking competition show "Next Gen Chef." Caroline will be his debut New York City restaurant. The concept is described as combining fine-dining precision with a more relaxed, personal experience, anchored by a monthly tasting menu and an à la carte bar program. Specific cuisine details have not been disclosed.

"Winning 'Next Gen Chef' gave me the confidence to pursue a vision I've been building toward for years," Sargent said in the statement. "With Caroline, we're creating a restaurant that embraces the precision and care of fine dining while making the experience feel more personal, relaxed, and connected. We want guests to return not only for the food, but for the sense of hospitality and community around the table."

Caroline is expected to open at 16 West 18th Street in the spring of 2027.