Jalapeño, the Mexican restaurant on Columbus between 68th and 69th streets, is set to replace Jewish-style deli Lansky’s, which closed unexpectedly in February after a six-year run.
Jalapeño has applied for a liquor license for the Lansky’s spot at 235 Columbus Avenue. We had heard from various tipsters that Jalapeño might move in, but restaurant workers wouldn’t confirm the news until now.
Here’s the conundrum: both restaurants were owned, at least in part, by restaurateur David Ruggerio. It’s not clear why Ruggerio closed Lansky’s, supposedly because he couldn’t cover costs, just to move another of his restaurants into the space. We have acall into him and will update the story if we learn more.
Re: “Jalapeño, the Mexican restaurant … is set to replace Jewish-style deli Lansky’s….”
OOOOHHHH!!! KOSHER-NACHO’s! (?!?!?!?!?!)
One (two, even)can only hope!
No way was Lansky’s kosher
Well, that explains the “This space is not available for rent” sign that’s been in Lansky’s window since it closed. If this does become Jalapeno, that will make 4 Mexican/Southwestern restaurants within about 2 blocks on or just off Columbus. I’ll bet that turns to just 2 or 3 within 6 months.
What’s going to move into jalapeño s old place? I vote for an In’N’Out Burger.
Here’s how he covers his costs with Jalapeño- dedicate ample space to a bar area with daily happy hours. Additionally, my guess is even tableside they’ll be more alcohol consumed and that equals high margins. Finally, they should shave off that glass facade and open the sidewalk for drinking and dining.
Funny if it turns out to be Lansky’s.
They haven’t applied for a liquor license yet. I’m sure if you check the SLA website under public query and search by company name or address, you’ll see that.