Lower East Side: According to next month's Community Board 3 agenda, an LLC by the name of Shalom Tov is applying for a liquor license for the old Mission Chinese Food space at 154 Orchard Street. Perhaps the owners were living in a hole and didn't hear about the rodents or the legal battle between Danny Bowien and the landlord. [PLYWOOD]
Lower East Side: A restaurant called Doka Hot Pot is applying for a full liquor license for the corner spot at 141 Eldridge (aka 53 Delancey) Street. It looks like there are plans for 50 seats, plus a bar. The mock-up menu includes sliced beef, lots of seafood, and veggies for on-table cooking. [Bowery Boogie]
Lower East Side: Miller's Near & Far is going through a revamp at the moment. The restaurant should reopen in March with some new decor and menu items like an uni mac ‘n' cheese. There are also plans to revive a reggae and jerk chicken night. [Lo Down]
Harlem: A public hearing sign is up for a restaurant called Yuzu at 350 Lenox Avenue. The neighborhood doesn't have a ton of Japanese options, so this could be a welcome addition. [Harlem Bespoke]
East Village: A cheese-focused spot called Raclette is moving into the old Brooklyn Piggies space at 195 Avenue A. There are promises of croques and tartines, and the owners are applying for a wine and beer license. [EV Grieve]
Lower East Side: La Contenta Cocina de Barrio is getting close to opening in the Saro Bistro space at 102 Norfolk Street. The 14-seat restaurant will offer Mexican-ish fare like queso fundido, nachos, guacamole, and large plates like braised short ribs with cascabel and chipotle barbecue sauce. [BB]