At the Lexington Candy Shop, a sweet memory of Robert Redford
The Upper East Side staple appears in the 1975 film "Three Days of the Condor."
New York has changed an awful lot since 1975, when the Robert Redford spy classic “Three Days of the Condor” hit theaters. It’s one of my favorite films, in part because it captures so much of Gotham from that era, so much that is gone, everything from the original World Trade Center to classic storefronts on the Upper West Side.
But one place, one sweet place, is still with us, very much like it was in the movie 50 years ago: The Lexington Candy Shop on the Upper East Side.
A pivotal scene was filmed outside, where we see the raffishly stylish Redford darting in amid a downpour, and then standing at the counter, where he picks up lunch for his colleagues. (I won’t say more about the plot in case you’ve not seen this film – I can’t recommend it enough.)
A few years ago, I interviewed the shop’s longtime owner, John Philis, at the exact counter where Redford stood. And Philis was there that day, and is himself immortalized in the film!
He yells “chicken plate” as Redford places his order. You have to listen closely for it, but you can hear Philis shout out those two words amid the clatter and Christmas music playing in the scene, and he can be spotted in the background.
Watch my ABC Localish piece, above.
Philis still dresses like the countermen of 1975 – the white jacket neatly pressed, the very picture of luncheonette professionalism.
As a way to honor the memory of Redford, who died today at 89, check out “Three Days of the Condor” and stop by the candy shop.
Be sure to check out Redford’s photo at the counter, and revel in the miraculous existence of this New York gem.
The shop, below, posted this tribute to its most famous guest:
“We’re thinking of Robert Redford today with heavy hearts.”
Need another reason to visit? The candy shop is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year! Here’s to the next hundred!
Thank you for this post!
I didn't realize this place was in that movie. Coincidentally, I've been there and I'm a big fan of 3 Days of the Condor, too.