Why Counter is still open

As Eater reported on Nov. 16, wd~50 pastry chef Alex Stupak received the OK from the CB3/SLA for Empellon, "a fine-dining Mexican restaurant," at 105 First Ave., home now to Counter.

At the time, Counter owner Deborah Gavito said they'd be closing in February. She told Gothamist: "they were not priced out of the East Village, but rather she 'decided to simplify' her life and 'the day to day grind of running a restaurant became less and less appealing.'"

However, EV Grieve contributor Samo spotted this sign... in which executive chef Elena Balletta explains why Counter will be open for "another few months."

Counter closing in February

As Eater reported on Nov. 16, wd~50 pastry chef Alex Stupak received the OK from the CB3/SLA for Empellon, "a fine-dining Mexican restaurant," at 105 First Ave. ... Which must mean current 105 First Ave. tenant, the vegan eatery Counter, will be calling it a day soon...



Indeed. Owner Deborah Gavito sent word yesterday that the eatery will be closing in February. She told Gothamist: "they were not priced out of the East Village, but rather she 'decided to simplify' her life and 'the day to day grind of running a restaurant became less and less appealing.'"