Corner Social has brought Raphael Benavides on board as the new General Manager of Operations as they work to stay competitive in an ever growing market of Harlem hot spots. Mr. Benavides has over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry and is an authority on running successful businesses in Harlem.
Mr. Benavides opened Ricardo Steakhouse in New York City and in 2009 he opened a Peruvian Cuisine restaurant called Ceviche, later renamed Ricardo Ocean Grill. In 2008 he collaborated and consulted to open East Harlem Café, his latest venture was Prime One16 Steakhouse also in East Harlem.
The owner Anahi Angelone is looking to make the Corner Social a stalwart in the community. If you remember, the restaurant opened under the moniker Lenox Social back in 2012 and in less than four years has established itself as a neighborhood favorite for meeting up with friends for a night of fun in Harlem. Chef Jonathan Roman helmed the kitchen for the first two years of operation before leaving to open his own restaurant in his hometown. Chef Banks White (formerly of Minton’s) took over operations of both Corner Social and Angel before packing his bags to head back to my hometown of San Francisco.
We look forward to the next phase of Corner Social and the direction that Mr. Benavides will guide it.
UPTOWNflavor 