Chefs Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli—in collaboration with restaurant group Quality Branded—have unveiled San Sabino, an Italian-American seafood restaurant in Manhattan’s West Village.
Designed by Brooklyn-based firm GRT Architects, San Sabino was envisioned as an evolution to next-door sibling restaurant, Don Angie. (GRT also spearheaded the interior of Don Angie, which has been open since 2017.)
Layers of paint and filler were removed from the restaurant’s exterior in order to restore the original façade, clad in copper sheet weathered by time with charming verdigris and patina.
Inside, the mood is set by contrasting elements—buttery yellow and milky gray, warm and cool metals, hard and soft surfaces. A ribbon-like stainless steel crown ties the bar to the dining room, accented by polished brass sconces. This horizontality is reprised at the bar with a solid pewter rail, echoed by stainless nosings set into the bar die.
San Sabino’s warm atmosphere is accentuated by a soft, yellow glow cast by custom lighting fixtures. Brass frames support textured glass panels to create a suite of light boxes recessed into the walls and back bar.
Floors are lined with a spin-off of the classic carreaux d’octagones tile pattern. Here, an added circle element and a blend of natural stone with glossy tile create an eye-catching effect. The same handmade tile is also used for the bar, allowing it to fuse with the room rather than punctuate it.
To help with the audio experience during the restaurant’s most lively hours, the entire ceiling is upholstered. The dining room features a winking vermiculated print, while a woven jacquard lends a luxe element to the bar area. Low slung ribbed banquettes swathed in natural hides line the perimeter of the space as well.
RELATED: Meet the Minds: Rustam Mehta, cofounder of GRT Architects
More from HD:
The Hospitality Development Landscape Is Flourishing
Hybrid Day-To-Night Concepts Make the Most of Their Space
Finalists Announced for the 20th Annual HD Awards
