This week, the Michelin Guide released its “Bib Gourmand” picks for the upcoming 2015 restaurant guide. The restaurants named on the list demonstrate excellence on a budget (two courses and wine or dessert for $40 or less). The Union Square neighborhood had 7 establishments make the cut, including ABC Cocina, Boqueria, Bread & Tulips, Hill Country Chicken, Laut, Momokawa, and Turkish Kitchen.
Spice Cafe, the Thai place at 10th and Unversity, is moving on Dec. 29 to 39 East 13th St. That’s weird because that’s the current location of Tong. Is the brand new Tong going out of business already?
In other news, Tokyo Lamen on University is “closed for renovations” and promises to reopen as a higher-end noodle place, like the three or four other noodle hot spots that have opened recently in the East Village.
Pop diva Rihanna was spotted singing karaoke downstairs at Shanghai Square. End of report.
Looks like University Place will soon get a branch of the popular Pop Burger near 10th St. Also at that location, a coffee spot called Pop Roast. Expected opening: early 2011
From DNAinfo:
A developer’s plans to knock down two buildings in an historic district near Union Square to make room for new apartment towers, was shot down by the local community board, who say the integrity of the neighborhood and the retail options there should be preserved. Developer C.A. White wants to tear down two buildings at 21 W. 17th St. and 16 W. 18th St. to build 13- and 11-story apartment buildings in their place. The current buildings, which are significantly shorter, are occupied by a Rent a Runway shop and an empty storefront, formerly home to the restaurant BLT. They’re also a part of the Ladies Mile Historic District, and would ultimately need approval from the Landmark Preservation Commission to be altered.
Boasting two floors, three studios (including a heated one), and over 100 workouts per week, the flagship location of Fithouse off Union Square garnered the attention of over 500 new members in its opening weekend alone. Combined with the diversity of class types (barre, bounce, dance, HIIT, sculpt, and yoga) and instructors’ notoriously noteworthy energizing playlists, it’s the ultimate spot to sweat and be seen. Spread across 6,400 square feet, the one-stop shop also provides luxe showers, private changing areas, lockers equipped with charging stations, and a full refresh bar. Unlimited class memberships are $189/month.