This is the Thursday Opening Report, a regular feature that provides the precise status of venues. As per standard operating procedure around here, your contributions are so very welcome.
1) Midtown: As if this town needed another steakhouse, Bottomless Dish reports that Club A Steakhouse has recently opened in Midtown in the former Bruno Restaurant space. They write: “The menu has been overhauled courtesy of Executive Chef Jean Christophe Villard...Entertainment in the second floor bar and lounge will include live music (every Wednesday through Saturday)." Status: Certified Open. 240 E. 58th Street; 212-688-4190. [Bottomless Dish]
2) Upper East Side: TONY reports on the opening of gimmicky Italian restaurant I Vandali, of which we noted Adventures in Marketing, a few weeks back. They write: “The name, which translates to “the vandals,” refers to this Italian spot’s key gimmick—guests are invited to scribble on white panels that hang from the exposed-brick walls. Contemplate your crayon legacy over affordable small plates from chef Marco Sanmartino (Cento Lire) like crostini with lardo butter and white-bean puree; larger dishes include a grilled pork chop with baked applesauce.” Status: Certified Open. 1590 First Avenue; 212-585-3339. [TONY]
3) Midtown: PRNewswire reports that a new Qdoba has opened in Midtown West. In case you weren’t aware, Qdoba’s menu includes: "Large signature burritos that offer unique flavors, including poblano pesto, ancho chile barbecue, fajita ranchera and the queso burrito -- Qdoba's most popular burrito. The menu also includes breakfast burritos, grilled quesadillas, salads, nachos, Naked Burritos(R), tacos and Mexican Gumbo(TM)." Status: Certified Open. 135 West 50th Street; 212-767-0040 [PR Newswire]
4) Astoria: A new Greek restaurant named Aegean Cove has opened in Astoria. A tipster writes the following: “The restaurant is three-stories, elegantly-appointed with an outdoor roof deck. The chef is Christos Christou with an amazing resume; he has previously worked at Molyvos, Milos, Trata, Aura and Ammos, to name a few. Christou offers tasty daily specials including a mouthwatering octopus stew.” Status: Certified Open. 20-01 Steinway Street; 718-274-9800. [Eater Inbox]
— Photo courtesy of Club A Steakhouse