Two Timeless Icons in New York City’s Broadway District

New York, N.Y. Nestled in the heart of New York City’s vibrant Broadway District, the Russian Samovar stands as a testament to cultural fusion and the legendary lives that have graced its iconic red banquettes. Originally established as Jilly’s Canteen, the go-to spot for Frank Sinatra and The Rat Pack, the Samovar continues to thrive as a hub for celebrities, artists, and New York’s literary and diplomatic intelligentsia.

In homage to its Sinatra-era roots, Russian Samovar preserves the original red banquettes and bar that Sinatra himself frequented, keeping the spirit of Jilly Rizzo’s friendship with the star alive. The restaurant has been a cultural landmark since being featured in the film The Manchurian Candidate, and its aura of history is tangible from the moment guests walk in.

In 1986, Roman Kaplan acquired the property, transforming Jilly’s into Russian Samovar. By 1987, he was joined by legendary dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov and Nobel Prize-winning poet Joseph Brodsky, elevating the venue to new heights of prestige.

Baryshnikov’s baby grand piano still serves as the centerpiece of the restaurant’s live performances, and patrons can request the famed “Brodsky table,” where the two icons would often drink and share stories into the night.

Over the years, Samovar has hosted an array of impromptu performances from legends like Liza Minnelli and Cyndi Lauper. There’s even an urban myth that Mel Brooks penned the film adaptation of The Producers while seated at the Samovar’s bar, contributing to its lore.

Baryshnikov’s legacy endures within Samovar’s walls as well.

The private dining room, where he famously filmed scenes for Sex and the City, continues to be a sought-after spot for guests seeking to connect with a piece of television history.

At the helm of the Samovar today is Vlada Von Shats, a Russian-Ukrainian American entrepreneur whose leadership continues to steer the restaurant as an elite cultural institution.

Born in Russia in 1964, Vlada immigrated to New York in 1977, quickly establishing herself as a successful entrepreneur with a background in major studios like MGM and Paramount.

Her ties to the city and her deep commitment to the community have made her a prominent figure in both business and social activism.

Von Shats’ passion for uplifting humanity is evident through her dedication to causes like anti-bullying campaigns and her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.

She has served on the boards of organizations such as It Ends Today and Gay American Heroes, working to educate young people on the impacts of bullying.

Her personal contributions go beyond business, as she is also a licensed clergy member who officiated the marriage of Bix and Jim Luce at the J. Luce Foundation’s Summer Leadership Awards Dinner in 2017. She has served as Senior Global Advisor to the foundation for over a decade, underscoring her commitment to connecting goodness and uplifting humanity.

Today, Russian Samovar continues to be a beacon for New Yorkers and visitors alike, offering a space where the past and present merge in a celebration of culture, art, and community.

Vlada Von Shats: Russian Samovar Proprietor and Our Global Advisor (June 17, 2023)

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Tags: Russian Samovar, Vlada Von Shats, Broadway District, Frank Sinatra, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Joseph Brodsky, NYC dining, Celebrity Hangouts, New York City History