Quite a few people seem to be curious about the restaurant replacing Two Boots Tavern at 385 Grand Street. A couple of weeks ago we reported the owners of a new venture put up a petition on the door of the shuttered restaurant — asking neighbors to support their liquor license application before Community Board 3 next month. CB3 has already heard from a few residents concerned about the establishment’s 4am closing time.
Yesterday, we talked with Daniela Libertini, who’s planning to open the New Mexican-style cantina along this lonely stretch of Grand Street with her fiance, Bobby Gonzales. She told me the menu will be made up of simple, home-style dishes — many of them featuring New Mexico’s much sought after hatch chile. Think tacos, enchiladas, Mexican-style corn on the cob, guacamole, nachos and hot cheese dip — among other offerings. The place will be called La Flaca (Mexican for skinny girl).
Right now, they’re planning on opening for dinner – serving a full menu until 11 – and then shifting to tapas in the late night hours. There will also be a weekend brunch. If there’s interest in the neighborhood, Daniela said they’d consider serving lunch and breakfast during the week.
When Two Boots owner Phil Hartman closed shop, he indicated the “below Delancey” location proved too daunting. Daniela is convinced things will be different for La Flaca. It will be a destination restaurant and a fun and easygoing atmosphere, she said. Bobby is from New Mexico. Daniela told me they’ve both grown up in “restaurant families.” Currently, she tends bar at Bullshead Tavern. Bobby’s behind the bar at Bar 119 near Union Square.
As for concerns about noise, Daniela said she doesn’t believe there will be problems but is committed to doing whatever it takes to win over the neighborhood. She mentioned that the Free Arts Society, which has been borrowing the space the last few weeks (and generating some noise complaints), will not continue using 384 Grand when the restaurant opens in the fall.
Daniella said anyone in the neighborhood who’d like to discuss the restaurant’s plans is welcome to email her at danielajadenyc@gmail.com
La Flaca will be looking to transfer a full liquor license from Two Boots at CB3’s SLA Committee meeting — August 16th at 630pm, at the JASA/Green Residence, 200 East 5th Street. CB3 asks anyone who wishes to weigh in, for or against any restaurant, refrain from calling the office. Instead, they suggest, you should come to the meeting, or give a letter to someone else who plans on attending.
