On a recent freezing Friday night in New York’s East Village, rosy warmth could be found at the neighborhood’s newest restaurant and bar, Short Stories. Its pink-painted walls and bright blue banquettes welcomed dinner guests, while a full menu of Tito’s vodka with intriguing soda pairings (shiso lime, mango chili) encouraged them to stay awhile. The space is intriguing to the design-savvy—its custom bookshelf and other built-in details masterminded by Bushwick restaurateur and partner Danny Teran—without overwhelming, and its dinner menu has a similar appeal for those in search of approachable yet considered fare. Baja California-inspired cuisine includes dishes like a queso-covered Impossible Burger, and tlayudas drizzled with tomatillo salsa. At dessert, a refreshing fruit sorbet stands out, served in the skin of its fruit.
This bright, snug space is meant to fulfill many needs, whether that’s a casual meal, a late-night dance party, or a healthy brunch. On the weekends, the restaurant plays host to the New York satellite of Season, the all-day cafe in Paris that’s a favorite during fashion week. “This is the city where I found out I wanted to be in the food business,” says Season founder Cathy Closier. “I’ve dreamed for 20 years to do something in New York.” At Short Stories, the Acai Bowl and Green Pancakes that her French patrons have come to love are served on the same pink Felt+Fat ceramics she otherwise imports to the City of Light.
The collaboration with Season is a first example of the deeper purpose Short Stories intends to serve. “The name Short Stories, we’re taking it literally,” partner Ashwin Deshmukh explains. “We’re going to be telling little stories about different cuisine through various pop-ups. Like if someone is a really great sous [chef] at a prominent restaurant and they want to try something out, we’re the place that’s easy for them to work with.”
In the months ahead of its opening, Short Stories has set its foundation as a place for parties, from Glossier’s holiday gathering to designer Sandy Liang’s post-presentation celebration. Meanwhile, its physical groundwork was laid by legendary local, “Mosaic Man” Jim Power, who hand-cracked tiles over the course of three months to form the restaurant’s permanent welcome mat.
It was important to the founders that they nod to the history of their location with the sidewalk art installation, as well as by providing a general sense of community in a part of town where the nightlife can feel predictable. “I felt like there was this big gap, like there was nowhere to go in the city to chill at and have a good time,” says partner Kumasi Sadiki, who also co-owns the Lower East Side shop The Good Company. “All the spots were kind of closing, so we just want to bring that energy back.” Come Saturday, show up for shishitos and guacamole, and stay until the dancing can’t help but move onto the banquettes.