Michael Lomonaco, the former executive chef of Windows on the World, is reflecting on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks and how they irrevocably shaped his life and career. The renowned restaurant, situated on the 106th floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center, was a casualty of the terrorist attacks, claiming the lives of 79 of its employees. Lomonaco, who narrowly escaped the tragedy due to a last-minute errand for his eyeglasses, carries the weight of survivor's guilt and a profound sense of duty to honor those who perished.
"It's been my personal mantra to do the work my colleagues were doing when they lost their lives," Lomonaco stated. This commitment drives him to excel in his current role at Brasserie Cognac Américain, a dedication to creating exceptional food while preserving the memory of Windows on the World.
Windows on the World, first opened in 1976 by Joseph Baum, was a groundbreaking establishment that transformed the Twin Towers from an office building into a vibrant social hub. The restaurant pioneered international fusion cuisine and was known for its meticulous service and opulent decor, creating a unique dining experience that was described as a "theater" for patrons.
A Culinary Reset
By the late 1980s, the restaurant faced challenges, including a decline in its critical ratings. The 1993 World Trade Center bombing further impacted the complex, leading to a three-year closure and providing an opportunity for a significant reset. Lomonaco took the helm in 1996 with a mandate to revitalize the establishment.
He championed the farm-to-table movement, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. Dishes like grilled Hudson Valley venison and Montauk lobster became staples, reflecting a connection to the region. This culinary shift proved successful, doubling the restaurant's visitor count and generating approximately $37 million annually by 2000, making it the highest-grossing restaurant in the United States at the time. Critics lauded the transformation, with Ruth Reichl restoring the restaurant's two-star rating.
Lomonaco credits the restaurant's success to its diverse team of 450 employees from around the globe, representing a multitude of languages and backgrounds. He described the atmosphere as akin to the "UN," fostering a strong sense of community and shared purpose. The restaurant was a popular destination for celebrities and New Yorkers alike, becoming a beloved city institution.
The Morning of September 11
On the morning of September 11, 2001, Lomonaco was not at his usual 8:00 a.m. start time due to an issue with his eyeglasses. A visit to a nearby LensCrafters delayed his arrival. As he was finishing, he felt the building shake, initially mistaking it for a subway tremor. The subsequent power fluctuations and evacuation order made him realize the gravity of the situation.
Outside, he witnessed debris falling and saw a plane's fuselage on the street. Driven by concern for his staff, Lomonaco attempted to return to the building to offer assistance. It was then that the second plane struck, a moment he described as "shocking" and confirming that the event was no accident.
Life After Tragedy
In the aftermath, a relief fund, the Windows of Hope Family Relief Fund, was established, raising over $20 million for the victims' families. Lomonaco, deeply affected by the loss, did not cook again until Thanksgiving of 2001.
He remained in New York, a decision he attributes to his connection to the city and his commitment to his former colleagues. In 2002, he helped open Noche, a Latin American restaurant, with 60 alumni from Windows on the World. Later, in 2006, he opened Porter House Bar & Grill, which carried forward the culinary philosophy and spirit of Windows on the World, including former colleagues on its staff. Porter House operated until its lease expired in September 2025.
Today, Lomonaco leads Brasserie Cognac Américain. He continues to emphasize the importance of respecting every team member's contribution, a lesson he learned at Windows on the World. "We share a tragedy, but we also share a love of hospitality," Lomonaco said. "I’ll always be part of the Windows on the World community."