Hospitality veteran Richie Akiva, known for his involvement in renowned late-night hotspot 1Oak, has recently made headlines as he departs from the members-only club, The Ned. This unexpected turn of events has left many wondering about the reasons behind his departure and what lies ahead for both Akiva and The Ned.
The Rise and Fall of The Ned
The Ned, located in the heart of New York City, quickly established itself as a post-COVID hotspot, attracting A-list guests like Leonardo DiCaprio, Rihanna, and Emily Ratajkowski. Akiva, along with Ron Burkle and Soho House founder Nick Jones, played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and launching this exclusive club in June 2022.
Initially, The Ned was seen as a promising return to the apex of nightlife for Akiva. However, the club faced significant challenges when it encountered liquor license issues in December. This setback seemed to disrupt the club’s momentum and ultimately led to Akiva’s departure.
Richie Akiva’s Departure and Future Endeavors
Despite his close association with The Ned, Akiva has decided to part ways with the club after only a year and a half. In an Instagram announcement, he explained that he plans to fully devote himself to upcoming projects that he is excited about. This departure comes as a surprise to many, considering Akiva’s instrumental role in the club’s launch and his reputation as a nightlife veteran.
While Akiva’s exit seems amicable, reports suggest that there are ongoing negotiations regarding his financial settlement. As a best friend of Leonardo DiCaprio, Akiva’s departure has attracted attention both within and outside the hospitality industry.
The Legacy of Richie Akiva
Prior to his involvement with The Ned, Akiva made a name for himself as the owner of 1Oak, a popular hotspot in the Meatpacking District. However, 1Oak faced its own challenges and was evicted in 2022 due to significant back rent. Akiva’s career also included a partnership with Scott Sartiano in the Butter Group, which operated renowned venues like Up & Down.
Akiva’s reputation extended beyond New York City, as he organized extravagant events like amfAR in Cannes and collaborated with Darren Dzienciol. However, his partnership with Dzienciol eventually soured, leading to rival events during the Cannes Film Festival.
The Future of The Ned
With Akiva’s departure from The Ned, questions arise about the club’s future direction and how it will continue to attract high-profile guests. The Ned has not publicly addressed Akiva’s departure, leaving room for speculation among its members and the general public.
Despite the recent challenges, The Ned still holds significant potential as a members-only club. Its prime location and exclusive atmosphere make it an appealing destination for those seeking a luxurious nightlife experience. It remains to be seen how The Ned will navigate the aftermath of Akiva’s departure and position itself in the competitive landscape of the hospitality industry.
