Ken Friedman of Breslin to Replace Oliva at 161 East Houston

Oliva has been serving tapas and Spanish-style cuisine to the Lower East Side for nearly a decade.  The cramped, dimly-lit quarters at 161 East Houston also hosted its fair share of live music, with salsa dancing often spilling onto the sidewalks during the warmer months.  Its fate is more grim.  Earlier this month, EV Grieve found evidence that the corner restaurant operation was for sale ($13,500 rent, $150,000 key). Now a replacement venture is already waiting in the wings. One with quite the city culinary pedigree.

According to paperwork filed with Community Board 3 ahead of next month’s SLA meeting, the folks behind the Breslin, John Dory, and Spotted Pig are presently considering the space.  Kenneth Friedman and chef-partner April Bloomfield are seeking the whole shebang for their as-yet-untitled establishment – an on-premise liquor license with hours of operation between 7 am and 4 am daily.  Much like the other restaurants in their arsenal, this Oliva-killer will reportedly specialize in British cuisine.

The new spot will likely carry an occupancy of 48 patrons spread across 24 tables; one stand-up bar will also host 8 stools.