I went to go get a haircut in the East Village after work yesterday, given that I was starting to look a bit like the director of "Satan's Alley" in the 1983 non-epic, "Staying Alive" (it might be time to shave this beard, too!) In any case, on my walk down 9th, I was shocked and saddened to see the front of Col Legno, one of my favorite neighborhood restaurants, shuttered. Not only was the metal gate pulled down (on a lovely Friday evening), but the awning also seems to have been removed. Is this the end?
My wife and I first tried the place at the recommendation of a friend of ours. An intimate little spot tucked away on East 9th between 3rd and 2nd Avenues, Col Legno may not look very flashy, but excellent food and a warm, low-key atmosphere swiftly made it a regular stop for us (my favorite dish being their Pappardelle Al Cinghale, made with fresh pasta, a Rosemary & tomato sauce and ground Wild Boar). The decor is humble -- a simple room with walls adorned with pieces by a rotating selection of local artists. You can even book the long table in the back and essentially eat right in the cozy kitchen. The restaurant's owner is an affable gent named Chris with a very dry sense of humor. When I got home later in the evening, I gave their number a call and worryingly got a "disconnected" message. We love Col Legno. I'll be very sad if it is indeed gone for good.
Walking further East, I noticed another sudden change. For several years, 9th Street Market between 1st and 2nd Avenues was one of those popular little eateries that practically needed a shoehorn to cram all its customers inside its cramped interior. I only went once and found it a little underwhelming given all the hype, but it was still a massively popular spot. Well, if you were thinking of going, you're out of luck. As of two weeks ago (according to a neighbor) it's been gutted, padlocked and closed for good. I'm not as crushed by this loss, frankly (as I generally don't like places that demand long waits to get in), but it's somewhat of a mystery. The place was certainly not lacking for business. If an inarguably successful, long-beloved venture like 9th Street Market can't handle the spiraling rents, I'd suggest getting out there and hitting your favorite little restaurant now, as its days are probably similarly numbered.
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