Even though José Andrés is no longer the CEO of the José Andrés Group, he still is its executive chairman and one of the creative forces behind the company. After creating multiple restaurants, bars, shows and books, the chef is now venturing into the hotel industry. In order to make that adventure a success, he is teaming up with Thor Equities, the company behind brands such as the Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons.
The Bazaar House by José Andrés should open its doors by 2027 in Washington DC. It will count 67 luxury rooms, a private membership club, multiple José Andrés-curated restaurant concepts, event spaces, a wellness centre and high-end retail offerings. It will also boast a private club, the so-called Bazaar Club, giving exclusive benefits to members, and a penthouse with a signature restaurant.
“Thirty years ago when I came to Washington, DC, as a young chef, I knew that this city was a perfect place to bring people together over food,” Andrés said in a statement. “It’s one of the beating hearts of our country, a place where I knew I could meet anyone and do anything, starting with a great meal. Well, today, I’m so happy to start a new chapter with the Bazaar House in Georgetown, an amazing opportunity to welcome people to my city in an entirely new way.”
The new hotel will be located inside the former Latham Hotel, which has been vacant since 2012. Thor Equities purchased the property in 2016 with the intention of creating a luxury hotel. After years of groundworks, talks of a collaboration between Thor Equities and the José Andrés Group first started in 2023.
“We are thrilled to be involved in a project that honors Georgetown’s rich history and also establishes an exciting new destination for the local community and visitors from around the world,” said Joe Sitt, chairman and CEO of Thor Equities Group. “The private membership club aspect is particularly compelling, as it is designed to connect thought leaders and foster a sense of community curated by José Andrés Group, where local and global guests will be able enjoy exclusive experiences, entertainment venues, and more. With strong roots in DC, José Andrés Group is the perfect operator for this venture, and we look forward to collaborating.”
