Whynot Coffee Shutters Ahead of Una Pizza Napoletana Takeover on Orchard Street

Whynot Coffee on Orchard Street officially terminated operations over the weekend after a rocky four years on the block.

Last night, movers were busy clearing out the enormous ground level space at 175 Orchard. It’s done.

The paradox with Whynot, of course, is that it was forged in controversy over its quest for a full liquor license, yet became a “community asset” to some as a dry daytime business. Something the neighborhood is losing.

The closure itself was not only expected, but highly anticipated. After all, the incoming replacement is Anthony Mangieri and his Una Pizza Napoletana, brought back to the city by Contra/Wildair principals Jeremiah Stone and Fabian Von Hauske. It’s on track to open next spring.

In related news, Stone and Von Hauske came before Community Board 3 last night for a license approval. Anticipating and, frankly, acknowledging a backlash regarding the addition of another full OP in Hell Square, the seasoned operators instead downgraded the ask to beer-wine. The move was successful and the application easily carried.

During the discussions, the board itself did appear concerned about the implications of turning yet another unlicensed location, given the existence of at least 48 OPs within 500 feet. There was also testimony from three residents about the over-saturation of nightlife and declining safety inside Hell Square, as well as concern regarding soundproofing with that floor-to-ceiling glass facade.