An ambitious culinary bridge spanning the length of Russia, from Eastern Europe to East Asia, is set to arrive in the West Village when Gastronaut opens this fall at 72 MacDougal St. Described to What Now New York as a sophisticated cocktail bar serving small plates, Gastronaut will take over the space formerly occupied by the wine bar Parcelle.
Co-owner and Russia native Roman Rakusa said the team behind the highly acclaimed El Copitas in St. Petersburg will be behind the bar program, which will highlight a large selection of international vodkas. Rakusa said he aims to dismantle the stereotypes surrounding the traditionally Slavic spirit.
“We are trying to show that it’s an interesting drink,” he said, “not only straight or on the rocks, but also in very different cocktails.”
The menu is equally ambitious, with many dishes having Japanese and East Asian presentations with traditional Eastern European flavors. Guests can expect a unique juxtaposition of dishes, where beef stroganoff and chicken pate profiteroles share space with a specialized selection of “Vladivostok sushi.”
Rakusa reveals that he’d lived in Tokyo for several years, which is close to his hometown of Vladivostok. He cited the massive popularity of Asian food in New York as a major influence behind the menu.
“The menu reflects Eastern European tastes, but in ways that are easy to understand for New Yorkers,” he explained.
The interior of the MacDougal Street space is currently undergoing a major renovation led by London-based designers. The layout will offer two distinct environments for diners, catering to both a vibrant bar crowd and those seeking a more intimate culinary education.
“One zone is more standing and drinking, with a very high-energy vibe,” Rakusa said. “The other zone will have a chef’s table with Omakase-style service. Every guest will be sitting and having a more personal experience, where we explain every dish and every drink that comes with that dish.”
Gastronaut will have a total capacity of 86 guests, including 28 seats on a sidewalk cafe. The owners are currently in the process of transferring the full liquor license from the previous tenant to support the bar’s expansive cocktail and infusion program.
The restaurant is positioning itself as a new late-night staple for the neighborhood. It will remain open until 1 a.m. on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weekends. While an official date hasn’t been set, Rakusa is targeting an opening window between October and early November.
