For over a decade, the original Osteria Morini was a treasured fixture in New York’s Northern Italian dining landscape. Launched in 2010 by chef Michael White, it quickly became a must-visit in Soho, contributing significantly to the city’s culinary sphere. But the announcement from the Altamarea Group that its final service would be Jun. 1, 2024, surprised many. Their promise to reopen with a fresh twist has now materialized as Piccolo Morini.
The Culinary Scene Revitalized
Located just steps from its predecessor, Piccolo Morini opened in June, embracing a vibrant, less formal style with a focus on handmade pasta, martinis, and shared plates. Designer Alsun Keogh of Nusla Design, who spearheaded the renovation, describes it as layering a new generation over the old. The inspiration was an Italian grandmother’s living room reimagined by her stylish grandchild, a true nod to the evolving food scene.
The redesign blends existing elements like hardwood butcher-block tables and restored trattoria chairs with bold oxblood walls, dark ceilings, and modern art. Vintage mirrors and Il Fanale Murano lighting add an elegant touch, while creative textures and patterns disrupt the traditional flow. This innovative design reflects the dynamic nature of the culinary environment.
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“Piccolo feels like the younger generation embracing and redefining a space they cherish,” Keogh explains. The eclectic furnishings mix inherited items with pieces sourced from auctions, flea markets, and personal collections.
The dining room’s hutch exemplifies this mix with an old Morini cork bucket flanked by antique books, vintage signs, and a modern lamp, all interspersed with personal mementos. A gallery wall breaks formality with its random but harmonious arrangement of frames and decor. This reflects how traditional and innovative elements continue to blend seamlessly.
Color plays a vital role, as deep oxblood burgundies and forest greens meet vibrant ambers and corals, nodding to tradition but with contemporary vibrance.
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Outside, the signage visually narrates the restaurant’s evolution. The original “Morini” in bold orange is now underlined by “Piccolo” in playful yellow neon. “It’s a lively, personal touch,” says Keogh, symbolizing the project’s blend of old and new, much like the culinary movement itself.
Inside, Piccolo Morini offers dual atmospheres: a cozy dining room for intimate gatherings and a lively bar for more spirited encounters. Keogh envisions the dining room for family dinners with fine wine, while the bar offers youthful exuberance.
The challenge Keogh tackled was how to refresh a beloved restaurant without merely replicating it. At 40 Kenmare Street, Piccolo Morini stands as both a tribute and a new chapter, maintaining beloved elements while crafting an identity distinctly its own within the food scene.
Source: design-milk.com
Frequently asked questions
What is Piccolo Morini’s design inspiration?
Piccolo Morini is inspired by an Italian grandmother’s living room reimagined by her stylish grandchild, reflecting the evolving food scene.
What type of dining experience does Piccolo Morini offer?
Piccolo Morini offers dual atmospheres: a cozy dining room for intimate gatherings and a lively bar for more spirited encounters.
When is the final service of Osteria Morini?
The final service of Osteria Morini is scheduled for June 1, 2024.