New Name. New Look. New Chef. Same Breathtaking View. JJ Astor to open June 2010 in former Top of the Harbor space.

After 40 years of serving a variety of guests and hosting numerous family celebrations, the Top of the Harbor Restaurant closed quietly in March and the renovation of a new brand began. When the doors open to the public June 2010 – new memories will be made at JJ Astor Restaurant, Lounge and View. The only remaining component in Duluth’s newest signature dining experience will be the breathtaking view the location has become famous for.

JJ Astor Restaurant, Lounge, and View, has been named after John Jacob Astor (JJ Astor) – the late 19^th Century owner of The American Fur Company, a Fond du Lac, MN—based business. JJ Astor also had a Lake Superior trading ship, “The Astor” that was used to supply the early outposts around the Lake. In 1844 after unloading at Fort Wilkins, a storm blew the Astor up on the rocks where she remained enclosed in ice throughout the winter. The sunken ship was retired, but JJ Astor went on to use his fur monies for a number of business investments including real estate. He died the world’s richest man in 1848 at the age of 84.

JJ Astor will not only celebrate the legacy of JJ Astor, but of many Lake Superior and Great Lakes ships, industries, and legends. The inland-sea, nautical themed restaurant will display historical photographs, beautiful architecturally inspired furnishings, and degree markers as the restaurant makes it way around 360 degrees every 72 minutes. As part of a national investment in Radisson properties, owner Trinity Hotels of New York have invested in the restaurant and lobby, and have scheduled additional updates to the 5^th Avenue Bar/Lounge and the guest rooms.

General Manager Paul Leisner explains, “The Top of the Harbor was ready for a re-do. The food was tired, the décor was out of date, and a total face-lift was needed.” And that’s what the space is getting. San Francisco Restaurant Design Firm, The Puccini Group, was hired to design a new space within the same revolving restaurant – incorporating the area’s history and visionaries. A new Executive Chef, Ryan Zander, has been hired to inspire the menu utilizing sustainable produce from local farmers and fresh fish from local fishermen for signature menu offerings such as Fresh Catch of the Day. “The staff will also go through extensive training with our consultants and new chef to make sure that each guest has the best service, food, and experience available in our area,” said Leisner.

JJ Astor Restaurant Lounge, and View will open June 2010 in the former Top of the Harbor Restaurant—Duluth’s 40-year old landmark revolving restaurant with a 360-degree view. Full of old world character and spirited tradition with a fresh modern irreverence, JJ Astor will be a lively place to share old stories, create new memories, and savor signature dishes made from sustainable local food. Located at 505 W. Superior Street, Top Floor, Duluth, Minnesota. For more information call 218-727-8981.