When renowned chef Flynn McGarry is asked about his most memorable childhood dish, his answer might surprise you. It’s not a gourmet creation, but rather a simple chicken salad from Joan’s on Third, a beloved Los Angeles grocery store and cafe. This seemingly ordinary dish reflects McGarry’s lifelong appreciation for the casual, yet high-quality experience that blends food, home goods, and a touch of community.
McGarry, who grew up frequenting similar establishments like Sqirl and Gjusta in Los Angeles, yearned for a comparable haven when he moved to New York City. He couldn’t find a place that seamlessly combined the convenience of a counter-service eatery with the charm of a curated market, offering everything from artisanal jams to handcrafted ceramics. This inspired the vision for Gem Home, a new concept that McGarry has meticulously crafted on the Lower East Side.
Gem Home is more than just a store. It’s a curated experience that reflects McGarry’s passion for both food and design. The space showcases a rotating collection of vintage homewares, sourced from all over the world, alongside a selection of artisanal grocery items. You might stumble upon a 20th-century metal vase from Kyoto, sterling spoons from Denmark, or raspberry jams from the Berkshires, all nestled alongside custom hand soap bottled in ceramics by artist Shane Gabier.
But the journey doesn’t end with home decor. Gem Home features a casual cafe serving a menu that shifts with the seasons. McGarry, known for his commitment to local and seasonal ingredients, draws inspiration from the Union Square farmer’s market, his own garden, and a select few farms. The menu is largely vegetarian, with the occasional indulgence of confit lamb or a comforting chicken soup. The common thread, McGarry says, is simply, “What do I want to eat today?”
The cafe space, with its long wooden tables, Louis Poulsen lamps, and red rugs, exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere. McGarry, drawing inspiration from mid-century design and the functional aesthetics of Donald Judd, created a space that is both minimal and warm. The restaurant seating area offers a quiet retreat to savor the food and soak in the ambiance.
Gem Home is a testament to McGarry’s evolving approach to culinary artistry. Just as he has garnered acclaim for his fine-dining experiences, he now brings his passion for food and design to a more casual setting. Gem Home is a place where you can find both a delicious meal and a unique piece of home decor, all infused with McGarry’s signature touch. It’s a place that feels personal, inviting, and constantly evolving, much like the chef himself.