From the Ashes of Bacchanal, ‘Esther & Carol Bistro’ Readies Opening on the Bowery
Turns out the new boss is the same as the old boss. When the Esther & Carol Bistro opens on the Bowery, it’ll carry the fingerprints of failed predecessor Bacchanal.
First, some context. You’ll recall that proprietor Peter Poulakakos pulled the plug on his lighting district restaurant-bar (and basement club) in December 2015 after less than two years in business. Several months later, the plywood shed arrived, followed by requisite branding courtesy of street artist Haculla. The replacement was announced, via the mural, as Esther & Carol.
That’s all gone now; the shed disappeared a couple weeks ago. Also, the State Liquor Authority updated the already-active license for Bacchanal to include Esther & Carol. So, same owners.
According to Zagat, however, the establishment is a three-in-one concept with dining room, basement bar, and takeaway window. It’ll offer a “health-conscious take on a traditional American bistro … paired with a 1970s recording studio-inspired downstairs lounge and fast casual menu offered through a separate take-out window.” Kevin King (Balthazar, Narcissa), Cordell Lochin (La Esquina, The Box), Dave Oz (Bathtub Gin, Two forks), and HPH Hospitality (Le District, Pier A, The Dead Rabbit) together have a hand in Esther & Carol. Opening is slated for sometime later this month.
Here’s a view inside the premises:
There’s lots of lipstick on this pig…
With the arrival of this latest establishment, the Sohotel at the corner of the Bowery and Broome Street will carry five liquor establishments in its base.
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