A New Battle for Ken Burns: Fighting to Save Lure Fishbar

Ken Burns, the renowned filmmaker known for his epic historical documentaries, has found himself in the midst of a new kind of battle—one much closer to home. Burns, a local resident of New York’s Soho neighborhood, has joined a campaign to save a beloved restaurant, Lure Fishbar, from being transformed into a Prada-branded eatery. This is not just another real estate dispute; it’s a fight to preserve a piece of the community’s soul.

A Soho Institution Under Threat

Lure Fishbar has been a staple in Soho for 20 years, offering its signature seafood and sushi to locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the basement of a corner building at the intersection of Prince and Mercer Streets, the restaurant has carved out a unique identity that is hard to replicate. Its underground location, combined with its exceptional cuisine, has made it a favorite among those who cherish its intimate and distinctive atmosphere. However, as its lease approaches expiration in 2026, the restaurant faces an uncertain future. Prada, the luxury fashion house that already occupies the upstairs space, is looking to expand its presence by opening a branded cafe, Pasticceria Marchesi, in Lure’s current location. This potential takeover has sparked a wave of anxiety among the restaurant’s loyal patrons, including Ken Burns.

A Star-Studded Campaign to Save Lure Fishbar

Burns is not alone in his fight to save Lure Fishbar. A long list of celebrities, including supermodel Cindy Crawford, comedian Chris Rock, and actor Justin Theroux, have joined the campaign to prevent Prada from taking over the space. Their support underscores the restaurant’s significance not just as a dining establishment but as a cultural landmark. Burns, who was introduced to Lure by his daughter Lilly, has become a vocal advocate for the restaurant. In a recent interview on the “Longwinded by Nature” podcast, he expressed his deep connection to the place, calling it “so sui generis,” a Latin phrase meaning “of its own kind.” He emphasized that Lure cannot be replaced, duplicated, or transferred, highlighting its irreplaceable value to the community.

Personal Memories and the Fight for Preservation

For Burns, the fight to save Lure Fishbar is deeply personal. He and his youngest daughter, Willa, now 14, have been regulars at the restaurant, dining there at least once a week whenever they’re in town. Over the years, Burns has watched Willa’s palate evolve, from her early days as a picky eater to her current appreciation for the restaurant’s miso-glazed salmon. He fondly recalls how she initially took small bites of his dish, gradually working up the courage to order it for herself. These memories, shared with podcast host Timm Chiusano, illustrate the emotional connection Burns feels to Lure. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a place where family memories are made.

The Business Side of the Battle

While the emotional appeal of saving Lure Fishbar is powerful, the practical realities of the situation are equally important. Prada’s interest in the space is driven by business considerations, as the fashion house seeks to expand its footprint in Soho. The building’s landlord, Peter Brant, has a history of working with high-end tenants, and Prada’s proposal likely presents a lucrative opportunity. A prominent real estate broker, speaking to The New York Post, described the deal as “all but a done deal,” given that Prada already occupies four times as much space in the building as Lure does. Despite these odds, Burns and other supporters are urging Prada to consider the broader implications of their decision. As Burns put it, “Please don’t do it. Understand what it might mean to rip the soul out of Soho.”

Hope and Gratitude from Lure’s Ownership

Despite the challenges, John McDonald, the owner of Lure Fishbar, remains optimistic about the situation. In a recent interview with Page Six, McDonald expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support the restaurant has received. He described hearing Burns’ passionate plea to save the restaurant as “surreal,” noting that it’s not every day a legendary filmmaker weighs in on such a personal issue. McDonald is hopeful that a deal can be worked out with Prada, allowing Lure to continue serving its loyal customers for years to come.

The Broader Significance of the Fight

The battle to save Lure Fishbar is more than just a local real estate dispute; it’s a testament to the importance of preserving the unique character of neighborhoods like Soho. As cities evolve and big brands seek to expand their influence, small, independent businesses like Lure Fishbar often find themselves at risk of being pushed out. Burns’ involvement in the campaign highlights the cultural value of these establishments and the role they play in shaping the identity of a community. Whether or not the effort to save Lure is successful, it serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for the places that matter most to us.