Bar Bianchi, a new venue on East Houston Street, brings elements of Milan’s aperitivo culture to downtown New York. The project is led by Jon Neidich, who is known for his involvement in New York nightlife, including venues like Le Dive and The Nines. In collaboration with Golden Age Hospitality, the design of Bar Bianchi takes inspiration from Italy’s piazza cafes, offering an indoor-outdoor experience in the East Village, as Eater reported.
Bar Bianchi's grand opening marks it as more than just another Italian restaurant. Modeled after iconic spots like Bar Luce and Bar Jamaica, "Bar Bianchi is inspired by the piazza culture of Italy, and all these cafés and bars where you drink inside or sit outside," Jon Neidich shared with Vogue. The decor reflects the style of 1920s and 1930s Milan, incorporating elements of Italian modernism. As painters complete the final touches on the exterior, passers-by are able to preview what is expected to be a new addition to the area.
The focus on spritzes and negronis at Bar Bianchi aligns with its goal of bringing the Milan experience to New York. Designed to capture the essence of Milan's leisurely social spaces, the venue incorporates elements reminiscent of Jay McInerney's Bright Lights, Big City, with its red and green neon lights. Chef Nicole Gajadhar oversees a menu that includes options such as tuna tonnato carpaccio and veal Milanese, intended to offer more than typical bar snacks. as outlined by Eater.
Bar Bianchi offers a unique experience where cocktails are incorporated into the dessert menu. The cocktail program, developed by Cody Pruitt of Libertine, includes the sgroppino, a blend of vodka, prosecco, and sorbet. As noted by Vogue, this drink is inspired by Hallie Meyers's Caffè Panna. The restaurant's exterior is newly painted, signaling its upcoming opening and the introduction of an Italian café atmosphere to the area.
Bar Bianchi's opening adds to the growing number of new dining establishments across New York City. For example, Tradisyon, a Filipino restaurant currently in Hell’s Kitchen, is set to relocate to Chelsea with an expected opening in June, while Rubirosa, a well-known spot in Little Italy, is preparing to open in the Hamptons this May. These new openings, including Bar Bianchi, contribute to the ongoing development of the city's diverse dining scene.
