Last August, we first reported that the Bean would open an outpost on First Avenue at Ninth Street, home once to Anjelica's Herbs. At the time, the Bean planned on just taking the corner location. The smaller space on East Ninth Street remained for rent.
However, the Bean's Ike Escava told us that they ended up leasing the adjacent storefront as well, and they will combine the two. He said that the work will begin next week, with a June opening in mind.
Escava also said that he will commission Jim Power, who created mosaics for the Bean's Second Avenue location, to do more art for the new cafe ... along with other artists, including Nicolina.
Meanwhile, no word yet on when the upstairs will be ready for residential use. And hey — it was just two years ago that workers said they were putting in a motel here.
Wow, I like it! Such a big building with all those boarded up windows always made a little sad. The paint job, windows and storefronts are all so inviting, that building really has been brought back to life.
ReplyDeletePity the bakery across 9th street.
ReplyDeleteWalked by the Bean on 2nd Ave. this morning. It was jumpin'.
ReplyDeleteThen I walked by the Starbucks on 1st and there were only two customers. It warmed my heart...
They're the best-ike, Sammy and Guy--The Bean is a neighborhood place, the atmosphere is always warm--I'm dedicating my book to them--afterall, it's the place where they let me sit and write it. Good people keeping the East Village vibe alive.
ReplyDeleteI just hope they have some really, really good air filters and stuff. I don't drink coffee and I don't want it stinking up my street.
ReplyDeleteI'll take MUD anyday over the bean...
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