This month, we are celebrating AAPI Heritage Month, and I had the distinct pleasure of kicking it off with a vibrant event at The Red Pavilion.
A Night to Remember at The Red Pavilion
Stepping into this Bushwick hotspot, I was immediately captivated by the occasion’s palpable energy. Every corner buzzed with anticipation, signaling that this was no ordinary night.
The Red Pavilion, nestled in the heart of Bushwick, provided the perfect backdrop for an electrifying celebration, marking both its first anniversary and the start of AAPI Heritage Month. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, drawing media luminaries and press mavens from across New York City to partake in an evening of cultural immersion.
From the moment guests stepped through the door of 1241 Flushing Avenue, they were transported into a realm of elegance and allure. Bathed in sultry red lighting and draped in a haze of smoke. The Red Pavilion exuded the seductive charm of a classic noir film set, leaving first-time visitors spellbound.
The Vision and Design
Crafted under the creative direction of interior designer Jordon Zadfar, the space embodies a fusion of sophisticated Art Deco elements with whimsical Chinese influences and motifs.
What was once a vacant warehouse now stands as an intimate haven. A blend of Asian neo-noir aesthetics tinged with a dash of classic cyberpunk allure. Drawing inspiration from cinematic masterpieces by Wong Kar-Wai, Zhang Yimou, Hou Hsiao Hsien, and David Lynch, the venue evokes an enigmatic and ethereal mood.
Enveloped by the allure of seductive red lighting and the enticing fragrance of signature cocktails such as The Red Dragon, paired with non-alcoholic delights like the Sunny Side infused with CBD Brooklyn Gold, ginger, and lemon, I found myself immersed in a world where cultural richness intertwines seamlessly with communal connections.
Culinary and Beverage Delights
At The Red Pavilion, prepare to be entranced as the menus unfold, captivating every sense. The curated bar snack menu boasts delectable offerings such as Thai Curry Puff and Taiwanese Vegan Soy Jerky, elevating the immersive experience.
Meanwhile, the beverage menu is a testament to the venue’s dedication to cultural authenticity and innovation. Highlighted selections include the enchanting Purple Negroni, blending gin, ume plum liqueur, Bitter Bianco, and Lillet Blanc, alongside the exquisite Falling Flowers, artfully composed of vodka, maraschino liqueur, Salers aperitif, lavender, hibiscus, and lemon.
For those seeking non-alcoholic delights, options like Awake—Baijiu infused with goji berries and chrysanthemum flowers—and Mystical—featuring oolong tea, Feragaia botanical, and soda—ensure a diverse range of flavorful experiences to suit every palate.
The Ambiance at The Red Pavilion
The ambiance is further enhanced by the genius of CLIO award-winning lighting designer Brian Tovar. With his masterful use of lighting transforms the space. It effortlessly whisks patrons from the dramatic ambiance of a German expressionist theater to the vibrant, synesthetic energy of a Kowloon nightclub.
The Red Pavilion enhances the immersive experience with a meticulously crafted sound system. This system, designed by Jonathan Perrelly of Sloped Systems, is a testament to perfection. Its high-quality construction ensures that every note, beat, and sound resonates with clarity and precision, enriching the overall ambiance of the venue.
A Conversation with Shien Lee
A few weeks after my visit, I had a telephone conversation with Shien Lee, the visionary founder of The Red Pavilion. Her story and the mission behind this unique venue were nothing short of inspiring.
“The concept of The Red Pavilion arose from my adoration of classic noir cinema and a longing to craft an oasis where people could revel in music and performance,” Shien articulated. “It’s about nurturing a sense of community and cultivating a haven for the expression of talents and creativity.”
In the vibrant landscape of New York City’s nightlife, The Red Pavilion emerges as a radiant emblem of AAPI heritage and community resilience. offering not merely an evening’s diversion but a transformative experience. Through purposeful engagements with art, hospitality, and cultural interchange, Shien and her team aspire to dismantle entrenched stereotypes and challenge structural inequities.
They have forged a deliberate space where individuals and communities can reconnect, heal, and thrive. The Red Pavilion was established in 2023 by Shien Lee in response to the mounting wave of violence against the AAPI community.
The Spark Behind the Vision
Shien’s inspiration was deeply rooted in personal experience. During the COVID-19 pandemic, like countless members of the AAPI community, she encountered heightened instances of violence and discrimination. “I was assaulted in the subway while on my way to pick up my son from school,” she revealed.
This traumatic incident ignited her resolve to fashion a sanctuary for the Asian community—a space where connection could flourish. “People needed a haven to connect, and that is precisely what I aimed to provide.”
Curating the diverse array of AAPI-centered events at The Red Pavilion is a collaborative endeavor. “New York City is filled with extraordinary talent. Countless performers are eager for a platform. Their creativity never fails to inspire me. I extend invitations to The Red Pavilion, encouraging them to share their gifts with our community.”
Hailed as the “Priestess of the Night” by The New York Times, Taipei-born nightlife luminary Shien Lee boasts over 16 years of expertise in the event and entertainment industry. Together with her visionary team, she is steadfast in amplifying the representation of Asian voices and the cultural identity of the AAPI community in New York.
The Red Pavilion serves as a sanctuary for the Queer and Trans Asian community, furnishing a space where their voices can soar and their identities can be celebrated. “It’s powerful to have a space where you feel like you belong,” Shien affirmed. “Having a physical space to celebrate one’s identity and culture is invaluable.”
Looking Forward
An evening at The Red Pavilion unfolds with an enticing blend of energy and excitement. “You can start the night with jazz and dinner, move on to cabaret and burlesque, and end with a DJ set,” Shien outlined. “There’s something for everyone, depending on their mood.”
Peering into the future, Shien dreams of broadening The Red Pavilion’s horizons. “I’d love to take this concept to Manhattan, focusing on jazz and cabaret. And eventually, partner with a hospitality group to bring our cultural celebrations to hotel lobbies internationally.”
Concluding my conversation with Shien Lee from The Red Pavilion
As our conversation neared its end, it became evident that The Red Pavilion is more than just a nightlife destination. It serves as a vibrant symbol of AAPI culture and community resilience.
Through its purpose-driven blend of art, hospitality, and cultural exchange, it not only challenges ingrained stereotypes. But also dismantles structural inequalities. It offers a deliberate space where individuals and communities alike can mend, thrive, and prosper.
While the AAPI Heritage Month celebration may have signaled a beginning. The Red Pavilion’s unwavering dedication to heritage preservation and community cohesion ensures that its impact will resonate for years to come. With an array of captivating events such as Taboo Jazz, Tokyo Boogie, and Studio Ghibli + Anime Jazz, there is always a compelling reason to revisit and partake in the vibrant tapestry of this welcoming community.
📍1241 Flushing Avenue—Bushwick
🔗 www.theredpavilion.com
