While we were talking about very important magazine business in our weekly editorial meeting this morning (we spoke about this at length. Vote. Come on.), intern extraordinaire Kristin Hart was on the scene at Union Station for a press conference about plans for the venue’s renovation. Wolfgang Puck was on the scene, and there was big news about his new restaurant to open in Reunion Tower (read the newsiness here). Jump for a few details from our woman on the scene.
- Designer Jennifer Johanson gave an overview of the progress of the renovation. (They’ve peeled away layers to reveal original structures and paint color. Dallas’ past, meet Dallas’ future.)
- Dallas billionaire Ray Hunt introduced chef Puck after a quick nod to his daughter for sparking his interest and desire to make the station a more beautiful venue after she insisted on having her wedding reception there.
- Members of the press (DMN, Observer, CBS News) anticipated the big announcement but strained to hear presenters’ remarks because of faint shouts of “praise Jesus” sounding over the speakers (feedback from a local Christian radio station, perhaps?).
- Chef Puck declared his love for Dallas and the Cowboys (hey, Jerry, Puck wants you to hook him up with some tickets) and said he believes that Union Station’s $6 million kitchen–about 6,000 square feet–could help the venue’s odds in becoming the best in Dallas.
- A last minute announcement was made right before lunch that chef Puck will also open a new restaurant atop Reunion Tower after the renovation of the station is complete. The name is TBD, but chef Puck is planning for an Asian-inspired restaurant.
