The countdown is on. You have 4 days. One of Dumbo’s only worthwhile restaurants–and one of NYC’s best Mexican restaurants–is closing its doors. Hecho en Dumbo‘s last night is this Saturday, October 31st, but don’t worry, it will re-open in early 2010 ….across the river!
What started as a Saturday night experiment in the Dumbo General Store in March 2007 quickly grew to become a full-blown restaurant, and basically outgrew its space. We’d been hearing rumors of relocation for some time now, but chef Danny Mena and partner Ethan Smith naturally had to find the right spot before changing things up. And after two years of hunting in the neighborhood, the perfect spot was found in Manhattan at 354 Bowery (at E 4th St), formerly Marion’s Continental.
While we liked the old space and the Clark Kent general store by day, restaurant/bar by night vibe, we’re thrilled that the new spot is that much easier to get to, and that they’re expanding their menu and offering a “decadent” brunch seven days a week (yesssss!)! Also, having a space all to themselves allows the owners to create a decor that reflects the feel and goals of the restaurant. Taking inspiration from New York and Mexico City, architects Laura Gonzalez Fierro and Ralph M. Beiran have designed a space that uses a variety of re-purposed materials to create “a sparse, rustic ambience.”
And all you skeptics can rest assured, the new Hecho en Dumbo will have all the elements you loved in the original: the same menu (but expanded, as mentioned), same drinks, same lovely staff, same roster of local and international DJs and musicians, and the same “laid-back Brooklyn ambience.” And most importantly, the same name. After all, the restaurant was made in Dumbo.
But 2010 is still a way’s away, so make a point to swing by 111 Front Street for a michelada, paloma natural, and burritas or queso fundido (just a few of our favorites), and bid the original Hecho en Dumbo a proper hasta luego!
For more info: hechoendumbo.com