New York City's vibrant restaurant scene is getting a new addition as the power players behind popular establishments like Zero Bond, White Horse Tavern, and Dandelion prepare to open Keepers, a neighborhood pizzeria in the West Village. The establishment aims to offer a relaxed, 1970s-inspired dining experience.
Eytan Sugarman, owner of White Horse Tavern, is collaborating with Will Makris, co-owner of Zero Bond, and Emily Pires and Elena Hristu, creative directors at Dandelion. "I think there will be something for everyone," Sugarman told Page Six. "You can have a drink and a pie at a medium price point and have a great experience in, my opinion, one of the best areas in New York."
The pizzeria will serve thin-crust bar-style pizzas, a style Sugarman noted is not widely available in New York. The menu will feature inventive toppings, with pies like the "Chicagoland" (sausage and giardiniera), "Bargherita," "Pineapple Express," the New Jersey-inspired "Thunder Road," the "Shore Thing" (crab-topped), and "Vodka Chicky Parm." In addition to pizzas, patrons can expect salads, including a black garlic Caesar and a spicy Italian sub salad, homemade kettle chips, and oven-charred wings with flavors such as brown butter buffalo and charred lemon pepper. Dessert options will include sweet pies, such as a cinnamon bun-inspired creation and one with fresh peaches and cream.
Leading the beverage program is Ricky Dolinsky, formerly the beverage director for Danny Meyer's The View restaurant. Dolinsky plans to offer an extensive selection of Negronis, classic cocktails inspired by old New York bars, house cocktails like the Watermelon Daiquiri and Biscotti Old Fashioned, frozen drinks, Italian wines, local beers, and rotating spritzes designed to complement the pizzas. The pizza program itself will be guided by Louis Tomczak, formerly of the Brooklyn pizzeria Paulie Gee's, who also has experience with Sugarman's Made in New York Pizza franchise.
"Keepers is not pigeonholed to any group," Sugarman stated. He envisions the space as family-friendly and suitable for couples, or for individuals seeking a casual drink and a slice. The restaurant's aesthetic is described as a refined interpretation of a classic corner tavern with a nostalgic feel.
Keepers is scheduled to open its doors on July 7.