Gaging Interest

Might Gage & Tollner be washed free of its shameful association with TGI Friday's?

The Times reported yesterday that the landmarked building on Fulton Street, Brooklyn, that once was home to the Guilded Age eatery Gage & Tollner—but has had to suffer the ignominy of being just another branch of the TGIF chain after G&T closed in 2004—may soon have a tenant worthy of its beautiful interior.

TGIF closed last month, sending ripples of hope throughout the preservationist crowd. And the article seems to bear out the idea that the owners of the building have seen the error of their ways"

Faith Hope Consolo, chairwoman of the retail division of Prudential Douglas Elliman real estate, said she was considering the site on behalf of a French brasserie with several outlets in Manhattan. “I think they’re looking for a more upscale restaurant there,” Ms. Consolo said of the site’s owners.

Surely, there must be an upscale restauranteur up to the challenge of bring high-end eats to Fulton Mall.

As for TGIF, there was a very funny quote from Larry Abrams, the property manager for the franchise group that operated the restaurant. "It could have used more signage to let people know we were there, but we couldn’t, partially because of the landmark restrictions. It was good for preservation, but not good for attracting attention."