There’s a new lounge in New York City located in Hell’s Kitchen. It’s Black-owned, which is rare in Manhattan.
Founded by four Black entrepreneurs alongside a supportive group of investors, Saint Resto-Lounge offers a fresh destination for those seeking an elevated nightlife experience.
Saint appeals to those who enjoy an upscale night out without the chaos of a nightclub. The space is ideal for private events, casual evenings, or special celebrations. It’s the perfect place if you want to unwind, connect, and celebrate.
The lounge has been visited by celebrities, including Carmelo Anthony, Joey Bada$$, and Queen Naija.
L to R – James Jones, Anderson Labaze, Carmelo Anthony (not an owner just in the photo), Courtney Richardson, Rene Jacques
We recently had the chance to experience all that Saint has to offer during an event hosted by Chris Holmes, Event Coordinator for The Quintessential Gentleman. On Black Friday, Holmes celebrated his birthday at the lounge, which checked all the boxes: good music, great drinks, and amazing food. Partygoers praised the intimate yet lively setting.
We had the opportunity to talk with James Jones, one of Saint’s co-founders, to discuss the story behind Manhattan’s new hotspot.
Transcript edited.
Q: How many co-founders are behind Saint Resto-Lounge, and what are their roles?
James Jones: There are four main operating partners: Anderson Labaze, Courtney Richardson (CJ), Rene Jacques (RJ), and myself. Each of us brings a unique skill set to the table. CJ has extensive experience in construction, Anderson and I have a background in promotions and hospitality, and RJ, who used to be my accountant, has experience owning a restaurant. While we also have investors, they mostly play silent roles.
Q: How did the founding team come together?
James Jones: I’m the common thread connecting everyone. CJ is my frat brother, and we’ve known each other for over a decade. RJ was my accountant and had previously owned a restaurant that closed during COVID. Anderson and I worked together as promoters, throwing parties and even collaborating on a rooftop project called Lost in Paradise. Each of us brought something unique to the table—whether it’s construction, financial expertise, or hospitality experience—and it just felt like the right group to bring Saint to life.
Q: What inspired the creation of Saint Resto-Lounge?
James Jones: We identified a gap in the market. As young professionals—particularly Black professionals—approaching our mid to late 30s, we felt there weren’t enough spaces that balanced sophistication and a lively vibe. You don’t always want a full nightclub experience, but a sit-down restaurant can feel too subdued. Saint bridges that gap, offering an upbeat yet classy atmosphere where you can enjoy great music, food, and drinks while still having the option to dance.
Q: Why did you choose Hell’s Kitchen as the location?
James Jones: Manhattan is central and accessible for everyone—whether they’re coming from Brooklyn, Queens, or New Jersey. Hell’s Kitchen specifically offers a blend of culture and energy that perfectly aligns with our vision. Additionally, we wanted to cater to corporate private events, and being in Manhattan makes us more appealing for those opportunities.
Q: How does running Saint differ from your previous experience as a promoter?
James Jones: It’s a huge shift. As a promoter, you’re focused on one or two nights a week, handling events and sub-promoters. Now, as an owner, I’m involved in everything—from food and drink quality control to hiring staff, managing a team of 40 people, and handling taxes and finances. It’s a much larger operational scope, but having a strong team with diverse expertise makes all the difference.
Q: What challenges did you face during the launch of Saint?
James Jones: The biggest challenge was the final stretch before opening. No matter how much you plan, unanticipated expenses always arise. For example, equipment that worked during inspections might suddenly fail right before opening. Managing those last-minute surprises and tight finances was tough, but we pushed through.
Q: What sets Saint apart from other venues in New York City?
James Jones: Saint offers something that’s been missing—a middle ground between a club and a restaurant. It’s a place where you can enjoy a high-quality meal and drinks in a luxurious setting and still feel free to dance if the mood strikes. We’ve created a space that’s inclusive, classy, and fun, catering to professionals who want to unwind without sacrificing sophistication.
Q: What can we expect next from Saint?
James Jones: We’re already looking into opening another venue, potentially a high-end dining experience. We’ve explored a few locations but are waiting for the right opportunity. Nothing is set in stone yet, but we’re excited about expanding our vision for hospitality in New York.
Make sure to make your reservations for Saint Resto-Lounge and let us know what you think!
Photo Credit: Saint Resto-Lounge
