Currently operating Björk Café & Bistro inside the Scandinavia House in Midtown, co-owners Ulrika Bengtsson and Sabina Lindmark are planning a second concept for the 14th floor of the Decoration and Design Building at 979 3rd Ave. in Midtown East. While Björk Café is strictly Scandinavian, the upcoming Another Story will have a broader scope, yet retain the region’s emphasis on fresh, organic, and seasonal ingredients.
Bengtsson recently told What Now New York that when she moved to New York City from her native Sweden in 1990, she was shocked by how much processing goes into American food.
“When I first went to the store to buy chicken, I could only see ‘turkeys’ because your chickens were so full of hormones and preservatives and God knows everything else,” she said. “Coming from Scandinavia, where we don’t use hormones or any added stuff, I was shocked. So, that has always been important to me, to give people something to consume that is good for their overall health.”
The local, seasonal menu at Another Story will feature light and fresh fare, including tartines, salads, soups, and grain bowls. The café will also have a daily happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., featuring a special menu of small plates, including oysters and caviar with potato chips. The café will serve coffee all day, and have a full liquor license.
Another Story will keep hours that align with the D&D Building’s working hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the week. It will also be available for events like yoga classes or private bookings. An opening date is set for the end of July. Bengtsson said those looking to get a sense of her cooking style can visit her at Björk Café.
In addition to the food and drink, Another Story offers the chance to enjoy the visual delights of the D&D Building.
“It’s absolutely beautiful, and smack in the middle of Manhattan, with great access, no matter where you are coming from,” Bengtsson said.
