PLATINUMPowerhouse
JANEY SAYS
EMP Summer House is back, and we have Janey Whiteside to thank. The globe-trotting EVP and general manager of American Express Platinum gives us the scoop on how our hardworking Platinum Cards have even more magic in store for Card Members—particularly in the Hamptons, of course. BY ASHLEY BAKER photographY by hannah turner-harts First things first: Thank you for bringing back EMP Summer House! Why was the partnership so successful last summer? It was something new in the Hamptons, and the combination of Will [Guidara] and Daniel [Humm’s] food and vision—and the indoor/outdoor space and garden—made it successful. Coming into it, it was a gamble. We hadn’t done something like that before, and neither had they, and we were all blown away by the response. Will and Daniel aren’t known for that more casual experience under the EMP brand, and we were super excited about what it was able to bring. I think they were excited to test their creativity in new and different ways, and integrate local artisanal producers to bring the flavor of the Hamptons to life. Clearly, there was an incredible response! [Laughs] EMP Summer House was our mostrequested restaurant through Platinum Concierge in the U.S. last summer, and Eleven Madison Park, now that it’s reopened, remains one of our most globally requested restaurants among Platinum Card Members. Will the format be the same this summer? Any changes we should expect? The main format will be the same—same space and garden—but there will be some menu variations. Daniel is working on bringing back some old favorites, and introducing some new ones, too. What can you tell us about your plans for EMP Winter House in Aspen? We’re still percolating, but you can expect all the things that make the Summer House fun—the more casual atmosphere and a locally driven menu, but with a winter theme in Aspen. Janey Whiteside, photographed at The Wing’s Soho location. FA S H I O N W E E K D A I L Y. C O M