neighborhood watch

Caviar Russe Gets Two New Chefs; Kortako Opens in the Fidi

Clinton Hill: A razor, a shiny knife is holding two holiday-themed events this weekend: the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Saturday, and Il Pranzo on Sunday. Guests are encouraged to cook and participate, as well as wear tracksuits, in keeping with the Italian-American theme. A portion of the proceeds from both nights will go to the charity Feeding America. For tickets and more information, click here.
East Village: A small fire broke out at King Gyro this morning. Although the blaze required four firetrucks, there were no reported injuries. [EV Grieve]
The neon sign is lit and the interior looks ready to rock, but the Bowery Diner is purportedly still three weeks away from opening. [Bowery Boogie]

Financial District: Kortako, the new Korean-Mexican take-out spot from the owners of Bon Chon on John, is now open. The results of the Korean-barbeque-and-Chipotle mash-up are in: “[T]his thing was delicious.”
[Midtown Lunch]
Gramercy: Ivy Stark, the executive chef of Dos Caminos, is teaching a Mexican cooking class at the Park Avenue location this Saturday. Dishes will be prepared demonstration-style and are all inspired by traditional foods prepared during the “Las Posadas” celebration, such as hibiscus cider and Mexican eggnog flan. The $65 ticket includes cocktails, lunch, recipes, and a signed copy of Stark’s new cookbook; reserve a spot by calling 212-331-0328. [Grub Street]
Midtown East: Caviar Russe has just acquired two Alain Ducasse alums: Executive chef Christopher Agnew and executive sous-chef Alex Dilling. The restaurant is also offering new à la carte and tasting menus to complement their caviar selection. [Grub Street]
Soho: Time to get your competitive decorating on: Weatherproof’s new flagship store, Apt 32, is holding a gingerbread-house- and tree-decorating contest tomorrow night from 6 to 10 p.m. The winner of “Best Gingerbread House” will receive a grand prize, but every decorator can take home their house and get 32 percent off a new jacket. Complimentary cocktails, snacks, and a screening of Home Alone will be provided for all shoppers. [Grub Street]
Tribeca: This month, Bouley is offering a comforting, $295 per person tasting menu centered around game and foraged ingredients, from wild Virginia quail to toro with wild mushrooms. Bring on the cold weather. [Grub Street]
Upper West Side: Gourmet Garage on Broadway, between 96th and 97th Streets, has confirmed that it’s closing, potentially before the end of the year. [West Side Rag]

Caviar Russe Gets Two New Chefs; Kortako Opens in the Fidi