Glen & Co. Architecture recently completed renovation of the East Village's Empellón Cocina. The restaurant is officially back with a new, sleeker look and a bold, adventurous menu courtesy of chef Alex Stupak.
Empellón Cocina, one of three Empellón restaurants in lower Manhattan, is the second locale Stupak has recruited Glen Coben to design. Glen has molded the once 75-seat restaurant into a warm, intimate 45-seat hideaway. Exposed wood beams, glossy white tiling and smooth animal bone accoutrements lend a minimalist, modern feel, while colorful Day of the Dead paintings maintain a festive, authentic atmosphere.
Tucked away in the back is an open kitchen featuring a private chef's table that seats up to four guests.
Photos: Evan Sung