Clay Pot Galore at Pylos
Dinner last night at Pylos had me walking into a restaurant that surprised me with its wonderful modern take on rustic Greek design by renowned designer Tony Chi.
Just a peek alone through the store front window had me ooghing and aaghing over the clay pot-clad ceiling that extends from the window all the way to the far back of the restaurant.
Stepping in, the interiors are warm and richly ethnic yet modern and chic at the same time. Few elements anchor the space - crumbling exposed brick along the front wall, textured whitewashed walls along the back, and, of course, the canopy made with over a hundred clay pots that dangle prettily (or precariously, to some) over diners' heads.
The atmospheric lighting creates an overall dim and relaxed environment with strategic lighting to highlight the architectural elements of the space.
1,360 (yes, we asked) handmade unglazed clay pots cover the ceiling, suspended with wires connecting each one to a metal frame. Each clay pot's hole for the wire is made on a different location on its surface so that each one hangs down at a different angle. The result is incredibly inventive and absolutely stunning.
The food at Pylos was equally memorable. We filled ourselves up with delicious meze dishes, a variety of their meat and fish platters, 2 bottles of Greek wine and copious slices of their warm, soft pita. Hands down the best Greek restaurant in NYC and the best Greek food I've had since our meals at the Vassiliades household.
Ioanna, if you're reading this, trust me! The food and restaurant interiors would make you and your mom proud!
PYLOS 128 East 7th Street (between Avenue A and First Avenue) New York, NY 10009, USA Telephone, (1) 212 473.0220 Fax, (1) 212 473.6433 Email, [email protected]
