A New York resident alleges that significant architectural barriers at a local wine bar prevent him from accessing its goods and services, raising questions about compliance with federal disability laws. The complaint was filed by Joshua Adams in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on March 6, 2026, naming 201-207 West 11th Associates LLC and Moon Flower West 11th LLC as defendants.
According to the filing, Adams, who uses a wheelchair due to spina bifida and hydrocephalus, claims he was unable to enter or fully enjoy Moonflower, a wine bar and restaurant located at 201 W 11th St in Manhattan’s West Village. The suit states that despite his interest in visiting the establishment for its “refined cultural atmosphere and cuisine,” Adams encountered physical obstacles during visits in December 2025 and February 2026. These included an entrance step that prevented wheeled access and what he describes as a lack of assistance from staff when he waited outside for help.
The complaint outlines that Adams attempted to access Moonflower but “was left without recourse to enter into the public accommodation,” despite intending to purchase food and beverages. He asserts that this experience amounted to “wanton and/or wilful discrimination” under Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Adams claims he has been denied access on multiple occasions due to both structural barriers and what he calls a “continued policy of deliberate indifference” by the defendants.
Adams highlights that neighboring restaurants are accessible and states his intention to dine at Moonflower regularly if not for these barriers. The complaint specifies numerous alleged violations of ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG), including:
– An entrance step without an accompanying ramp or accessible route,
– Insufficient maneuvering clearance at doors,
– Inaccessible dining tables both inside and outside,
– Bar surfaces exceeding maximum height allowances,
– Restroom facilities lacking compliant signage, door hardware, turning space, clear floor space at lavatories, insulated pipes, properly mounted mirrors, adequate water closet clearance, and required grab bars.
The lawsuit claims these conditions have caused Adams harm by denying him “full and equal enjoyment” of the restaurant’s offerings. He further identifies himself as an advocate for disability rights who also acts as a “tester” by visiting public accommodations to verify ADA compliance. Adams states his intent to return periodically once modifications are made.
In terms of legal arguments, Adams contends that removing these barriers is “readily achievable” under federal law—that is, it can be done without significant difficulty or expense. He argues that both property owner 201-207 West 11th Associates LLC and business operator Moon Flower West 11th LLC share responsibility for ensuring compliance with ADA standards within their respective roles.
The relief sought includes an injunction requiring all identified barriers be removed so that the premises become fully accessible according to ADAAG standards. Adams requests that the court order alterations sufficient for individuals with disabilities to independently use all facilities at Moonflower. He also asks for closure of the premises until necessary changes are completed if required by law.
Additionally, Adams seeks reimbursement for attorney’s fees, expert fees, costs, and litigation expenses incurred in bringing this action. The complaint emphasizes his claim that there is no adequate remedy at law other than court intervention due to ongoing harm from continued inaccessibility.
The case is represented by Maria-Costanza Barducci of Barducci Law Firm PLLC in New York City. The case identification number is 1:26-cv-01853.
Source: 126cv1853_Joshua_Adams_b_201-207_West_Complaint_Southern_District_of_New_York.pdf
