Through intimate firsthand accounts from its staff, this film revisits Windows on the World, the iconic restaurant atop the World Trade Center, and explores how it became a symbol of New York City before its story ended on September 11.
From Academy Award-nominated, Emmy-winning filmmakers Julie Cohen and Betsy West
Featuring former staff members—including wine master Kevin Zraly, chef Michael Lomonaco, and survivors whose lives were forever changed by September 11—the documentary captures the community, ambition, and opportunity that defined the restaurant, as well as the devastating loss of 79 employees in the attacks.
Chef Michael Lomonaco is a celebrated New York restaurateur, culinary director, and television personality known for shaping modern American cuisine. After honing his craft under legends like Alain Sailhac and Daniel Boulud at Le Cirque, he revitalized the iconic “21” Club and later led Windows on the World to national acclaim as Executive Chef and Director. In 2006, he founded Porter House Bar and Grill, followed by Center Bar and Hudson Yards Grill - each earning critical praise for their bold, ingredient-driven menus. A cookbook author and former Food Network host, Lomonaco continues to champion American regional cooking, philanthropy through initiatives like the Windows of Hope Family Relief Fund, and the enduring belief that every great dish tells a story. For Lomonaco’s latest venture, he joins forces with Vittorio Assaf and Fabio Granato of Serafina Group to become Culinary Director of Brasserie Cognac on New York’s Fifth Avenue.
Q&A Tastings: Bebemos Tequila and Balsamico Italian Kitchen
The Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) welcomes makers and lovers of film from all over the world to the storied seaside village of Coronado, California to celebrate the magical art of visual storytelling. Coronado’s enduring love affair with Hollywood began more than a century ago.