On a recent visit to Everyman Espresso on East 13th Street, we were stopped by a sign saying the coffee shop will close for renovations starting June 25th. A barista inside who explained the work should take 3 – 4 weeks. After that, they’ll have snazzy new interiors.
Later this year, Capital One will open a new banking concept in New York City’s Union Square with a large café, operated by Peet’s Coffee, and an upstairs lounge that will function as a communal work space, complete with free Wi-Fi.
Not unlike the Apple Store, the bank will serve customers with mobile tellers, who will have iPads on which they will handle transactions, rather than the standard glass window setup.
The bank already operates a number of Capital One 360 Cafés, where customers are invited to enjoy coffee while they learn about ways to manage their finances, but the upcoming location takes a page from the rising popularity of communal office spaces, which are increasingly common in New York City.
The basement of the café at 853 Broadway will be used as a classroom. Customers can take courses on mortgage financing and other topics.
The elevated café concept is expected to expand beyond Union Square; the bank is reportedly already looking to open a location in the SoHo neighborhood, but a deal has not yet been made.
Art supply store Sam Flax is closing its store at 11 West 19th St. There are big savings on things like high-end office furniture, all kinds of art supplies, stationery, and lots of picture frames. The sale will run through June. 
Say hello to MYKA, the newest addition to Union Square’s dining scene. Founded in Madrid, MYKA specializes in artisanal frozen Greek yogurt made with Greek yogurt and goat’s milk kefir. Rooted in a passion for quality, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design, MYKA offers a fresh take on frozen yogurt that celebrates simple, natural ingredients. MYKA is open at 119 E 15th St.
Earlier we reported that the decidedly low-midmarket Burlington Coat Factory, a leading national off-price retail chain, had announced it would open a new flagship store in the space formerly occupied by Filene’s on 14th St. Two months later, no sign of activity and no word when the store will actually arrive.
The annual shareholder’s meeting will take place on Wednesday June 30th at 7PM at the Seafarers’ and Interational House at 123 East 15th St, second floor.
At the meeting, the Board of Directors will be seeking at least one new member. If you wish to become a candidate for the Board and have your name placed on the ballot, please feel free to provide a short biography of yourself via fax (212) 986-0002 or e-mail to ymartinez@akam.com. The Board will also welcome nominations at the meeting itself.
Oct. 29 is the date for the park’s signature fall celebration to raise vital funds for the district’s cherished Union Square Park. Highlighting the district’s best restaurants and the vibrant Greenmarket, enjoy tastings from renowned local chefs paired with classic and innovative drinks.