So, it looks like Jamonera, the cozy, Midtown Village tapas bar that Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran have been busy putting together inside what used to be their Indian-flavored BYOB, Bindi, throughout most of last fall is just about ready to make its debut. The two just sent word that they are eying Sunday, January 22 for the official opening. As with their last effort, Barbuzzo, which was inspired by the duo’s travels through Italy and the Mediterranean, Jamonera draws from Turney and Safran’s recent visits to Spain. They partnered with Tim Shaaban of Urban Space Development to help transform those experiences into a restaurant and bar.
With a 20-foot copper-topped bar, Rioja-stained wood, antique mirrors and hand-carved wood chandeliers, Shaaban retooled the space to evoke a sense of Spain in the heart of Midtown Village. As previously reported, Georges Bizet’s famed opera, “Carmen,” plays a key role in the space’s design. Artist and fashion designer Tory Novikova created a 7- by 8-foot interpretation of “Carmen,” which greet guests upon entry.
In conceiving the menu, Chef Turney took into account the broader array of traditions and flavors that influence the region’s culinary landscape. While the menu is still being finalized, some dishes may include Banderillas of olives, boquerones and guindilla peppers; crispy Calasparra rice with heirloom pumpkin, chestnuts and La Quercia acorn edition jamon; Moorish skewers of lamb with spiced yogurt, mint and pickled chiles; and house-cured Cecina with artichokes, fennel and amontillado sherry. From small snacks to composed plates, the menu’s prices will range from $4 to $36.
Jamonera, 105 South 13th St., (215) 922-6061
