MIDTOWN WEST/THEATER DISTRICT—Pre-Shutter Alert: Cite, the longstanding pre- and post-theater destination (and, of late, home of a dangerously well priced all you can drink promotion) is closing in roughly two months. They are not picking up their lease. Details to follow. [EaterWire]
UPPER WEST SIDE—Matthew Hamilton, late of Uovo fame, has taken over as chef of Pair of 8's. Matthew: "I am doing pretty much the same type of cusine in a bigger space. Wonderful, homey no fuss food. We have a great wine list and a full bar." [EaterWire]
HELL'S KITCHEN/MIDTOWN WEST—Seems Tony Luke's has become Shorty's Saloon. From a well-informed tipster: "On Friday I called Tony Luke's on 9th Ave off 42nd St. to order lunch delivery. After the phone was answered "Tony Luke's, how can I help you?" and I responded that I would like to place an order for delivery, I was then put on hold and when the woman picked up again, she said "Shorty's, how can I help you?" I told her I was calling Tony Luke's, and she said that the name of the place has changed to Shorty's, but the menu was the same. Huh? Anyway, I placed my order, and upon delivery, a Shorty's Saloon menu came with it that was clearly different than Tony Luke's, even though it had a some Philly Steaks on it at higher prices." [EaterWire Inbox]
LOWER EAST SIDE—Lost City reports that it may finally be the end for Gertel's, the world famous Lower East Side bakery whose demise has been rumored for months. "The date of extinction for Gertel's, one of the last and the best of the old kosher bakeries on the Lower East Side, has been set for Passover 2007...For those who don't know, Passover begins April 3 this year. So you have a couple months left to take advantage of one of the best-tasting challahs in the city. [Lost City]
