Dean’s in SoHo: Inside the English Pub-Inspired Vision by Jess Shadbolt, Annie Shi, and Jason Chen

Cofounders collaborate with designer to reimagine the classic pub through a contemporary New York lens

NEW YORK — A new hospitality concept in SoHo is drawing attention for its thoughtful reinterpretation of a British classic. Dean’s, the latest venture from cofounders Jess Shadbolt and Annie Shi, brings an English pub-inspired aesthetic into a distinctly modern New York setting.

Working alongside designer Jason Chen, the team set out to create a space that balances tradition with contemporary design sensibilities. The result is an interior that feels both familiar and elevated, drawing from the warmth and intimacy of classic pubs while refining the details for a more design-conscious audience.

Located in the heart of SoHo, Dean’s reflects a growing shift in hospitality design, where atmosphere plays as significant a role as the menu itself. Rich textures, carefully considered lighting, and layered materials define the space, offering a setting that encourages both casual gathering and curated experience.

Rather than leaning into nostalgia alone, the design introduces subtle modern interventions. Clean lines intersect with traditional elements, while the layout prioritizes flow and openness — a departure from the often compact and enclosed feel of historic pubs.

Shadbolt and Shi, known for their attention to detail and brand storytelling, approached the project with a clear vision: to create a destination that resonates with both local and international audiences. Their collaboration with Chen allowed that vision to take physical form, translating concept into atmosphere.

The project underscores a broader trend within New York’s dining scene, where design is increasingly positioned as an integral part of the overall experience. Spaces like Dean’s are not simply places to dine, but environments that shape how guests interact, linger, and return.

As SoHo continues to evolve, Dean’s adds to a new wave of venues that blend global influence with local identity — offering a refined take on tradition without losing its cultural roots.

For more on hospitality and design, visit Architectural Digest and Dezeen.

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