Claudette Reopens With New Chef as Summer Brings Big Openings

Claudette, the Provençal bistro on lower Fifth Avenue, saw its dining room full again this Tuesday evening. The restaurant, which had seen quieter nights earlier this year, is now under the direction of chef Igor Almeida Cabral. Cabral’s new menu keeps the southern French focus but introduces dishes like grilled octopus with harissa and a rabbit terrine.

Tables around 7 p.m. were mostly occupied by small groups and couples, some sharing plates of socca and rosé. A staff member said reservations have increased since the relaunch earlier this month. The kitchen now stays open until 11 p.m. on weekends, a shift meant to catch late-night crowds during the summer.

Elsewhere, a 200-seat Korean barbecue restaurant opened its doors last Friday on North 6th Street in Williamsburg. The venue features built-in grills at every table and a selection of soju cocktails. Prices for barbecue sets start at $38 per person.

Several other restaurants have also announced plans to expand hours or add outdoor seating as summer temperatures hit the 80s this week. In Chelsea, a tapas bar near 23rd Street has opened its sidewalk patio for the season, serving until midnight.

Restaurant owners cite both tourism and locals on vacation schedules as reasons for the extended hours. Many are watching to see if the current pace continues past July 4th.