Il Buco

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld first encountered her boyfriend Robert Konjic in an Italian restaurant called Il Buco in New York's East Village. As Julia recalls: “We met at a dinner party, I went there with my brother Vladimir. I liked him instantly but he was with another girl. Later on we met at a New Year’s Eve party in Mexico, and we felt instantly that there was something between us." I believe they were at the Proenza Schouler party and if so, Julia is pictured here wearing her outfit from that memorable evening.

Il Buco is at 47 Bond Street between Bowery and Lafayette Streets and is owned by Donna Lennard and Alberto Avalle. Legend has it that Il Buco's wine cellar inspired frequent patron Edgar Allan Poe to pen his classic short story "The Cask of Amontillado." Almost 200 years old, the cellar's brick walls are lined from floor to ceiling with wine and lighted by candles in cast iron sconces; the chandeliers are designed by Warren Muller from recycled and salvaged objects. Dinner among the private alcoves of the cellar is enchanting, the perfect escape from the bustle of the city. Just be sure to make a reservation as the entrées that change nightly are a constant draw.

Il Buco images courtesy of ilbuco.com
Julia Restoin-Roitfeld image courtesy of fashionfirstlunchlater.blogspot.com

Update on dimanche 31 janvier 2010 by kellina

The Selby ceaselessly amazes me wth his insider status: view his adventures shopping for produce with the chef from Il Buco, Ignacio Mattos; whipping up panna cotta with the pastry chef, Ela Schmidt; or visiting behind the scenes at Il Buco.

Il Buco kitchen photograph © 2009 Todd Selby. All Rights Reserved.