Two Boots LES Almost Ready to Come Out of the Oven
We’ve received official word that the long-awaited Two Boots LES will open by Sunday, bringing with it five new strombolini, a manicotti entrée, and a slice, the Loisaida, which owner Phil Hartman promises will make “incendiary” use of “exotic peppers” from the nearby Pickle Guys. Hartman has been waiting for Con Ed to run the gas for a couple of weeks now, but he promises an opening party next week, with live jazz by Tonic refugees Paul Shapiro and Elliott Sharp. In the meantime, we can tell you to expect photos of locals and their tots and Mets memorabilia on the counter; eggplants, artichokes, and fish painted on wood by general manager Jose Arcila; and, for seating, a split between checkered tablecloths, bar stools, and outdoor tables. In short, an ideal place for LES stroller-pushers to put down the baby bottle and do their own tippling. —Alec AppelbaumTwo Boots LES, 384 Grand St., nr. Norfolk St.; 212 228 8685. Delivery from Broadway to the East River and from Delancey Street to Wall Street.