We showed you the menus for the new SD26 on Tuesday, and today we have insight into the restaurant’s modern look. Father-daughter owners Tony and Marisa May asked graphic desinger Massimo Vignelli to transform the 14,000-square-foot former office space. “Vignelli saw the design in a dream that night. So it took one night to come up with the design, and months to realize it,” says Marisa. SD26 is divided into a front lounge and a two-tier dining room. Near the bar, there’s a wine-preservation system that allows for finer wines to be served by the glass. The soaring dining room is framed by a private-party space above. (Red booths and and black-and-white tile accents remind us a bit of the Max on Saved by the Bell.) Artwork is by fiber artist Sheila Hicks, who created colorful woven waves on one wall in the bar area and dangling balls of yarn in the back. Downstairs is a rustic private wine room that cradles old Barolos and houses a long Italian wood table salvaged from the original San Domenico. That’s also where you’ll find Tony May’s collection of Nonino grappa, which warrants its own list. Check out all the elements, plus some food, by clicking through our slideshow.
SD26, 19 E. 26th St., nr Madison Ave.; 212-265-5959
Earlier: What to Eat at SD26, the Sequel to San Domenico, Opening Today
