BY THE VILLAGE SUN | Family and friends of Lower East Side restaurateur Gary Auslander gathered in the East Village for a memorial on Sunday evening.
Auslander, 77, who formerly ran Baby Jupiter, a hip bar/resturant and live music venue on Orchard Street, died suddenly at his home on Oct. 31. He lived on E. First Street in the East Village and was also a nightlife real estate broker.
One of this three sons, Isaac, posted on Facebook that the cause of death was a heart attack and that Gary’s wife, “the woman of his dreams,” was by his side when he passed away.
The memorial was held at the Lazy Llama Coffee Bar, at 72 E. First St.
Ariel Palitz, the city’s “nightlife mayor,” posting on Facebook, wrote: “I am heartbroken to learn about the passing of my/our dear friend…and neighbor, LES legend Gary Auslander. For those who don’t know, back in the day, 1998 Gary opened Baby Jupiter’s on Orchard Street, where Hair of the Dog is now, a live music, artist salon, bar/restaurant where local talent were supported and thrived. I threw parties there. He owned Baby Jakes, where Lucien is now, named after one of his 3 great sons I watched grow up, it served the best crab cake benedict and po’ boys. Gary was one of those neighborhood guys u would always stop to talk to and hear his funny observations of the day. I will miss his presence. My heart goes out to his wonderful wife, my friend Susan Auslander, and their boys Jake, Eli and Isaac, who he cherished more than anything. He was a family man and loved his neighnorhood and we loved him too. Rest in Peace, Gary. We will never forget you.”
Gary’s BABY JAKE’S spot was shut down when he lost his liquor license due to the city getting drinks (allegedly) served to minors. That was pretty fucked up.
He was a good guy and a big part of our community.