Tucked away on Prince Street, one of SoHo’s bustling arteries, lies Manuela, a restaurant that’s anything but inconspicuous once you step inside. This isn’t your average eatery; it’s a haven for art lovers and foodies alike, boasting an impressive collection of artwork worth millions of dollars.
Imagine dining amidst masterpieces by George Condo, Jenny Holzer, and Cindy Sherman, with Andy Warhol prints and a Rashid Johnson table and rug adding to the visual feast. Even the chandelier, a vibrant creation by Mika Rottenberg, is made from reclaimed household plastic.
Manuela is the brainchild of Artfarm, a hospitality group that seamlessly blends art and lifestyle experiences. They’ve already made their mark with venues like Mount St. Restaurant in London and The Fife Arms in the Scottish Highlands, and now, they’ve brought their unique vision to New York City’s artistic heart.
SoHo’s rich artistic history, with nearby landmarks like Donald Judd’s studio and the legendary artist-run restaurant FOOD, inspired Artfarm’s choice of location. “It is known for its artistic history and heritage, and that’s very exciting to us,” says Artfarm creative director Bee Emmott.
The restaurant’s design reflects this artistic heritage, showcasing art in a prominent yet unpretentious way. No white tablecloths, velvet curtains, or dim candlelight here – just vibrant, simple colors inspired by a child’s crayon box, thanks to Mary Heilmann’s colorful tables.
Manuela is open for both lunch and dinner, a deliberate choice to create a “canteen-like” atmosphere. “It could be you and I having lunch, or it could be a special occasion, or it could just be people working around,” Emmott says. “We wanted to create this democratic space that doesn’t feel like it has the pomp and ceremony that some places have.”
The menu, like the art, is constantly evolving, with seasonal changes and a focus on fresh, local produce. Dishes like the red kuri squash with stracciatella and urfa oil showcase their commitment to vegetables and plant-based cooking.
The art, the food, the martinis – everything at Manuela aims to spark conversation and inspire creativity. “We wanted to create an environment that is a catalyst for exciting conversations and discussions and for real excitement and creativity to happen,” Emmott shares.
So, if you’re seeking a unique dining experience that combines art, food, and a vibrant atmosphere, Manuela is the perfect destination. It’s a place where the boundaries between art and life blur, making every visit a memorable experience.
