A yet-to-be-named Korean-Italian restaurant is aiming to open at 176 First Ave. in East Village, according to community board filings. The space formerly belonged to Black Seed Bagels, which closed in May.
Chef Sechul Yang is behind the venture. Yang has more than a decade of experience in New York hospitality, working as a chef at spots including Oiji Mi and Maialino.
The menu will aim to combine Italian and modern Korean cuisine, including Korean-flavored handmade pastas, New York-influenced Korean dishes, homemade sauces and shared dishes. The beverage program will feature wine, house-infused soju, signature cocktails, beer and zero-proof cocktails.
The design of the space will aim to form a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. Plans call for 12 tables with 24 seats and one 10-seat bar. The proposed hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday through Wednesday, with hours extended to 1 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
As of now, an opening timeline remains unknown.
