The team behind the Cuban restaurant, Guantanamera, is looking to debut a new concept.
The new concept, called GATA Bar + Kitchen, is billed as an “upscale” restaurant, offering a diverse array of cultural cuisines with a modern twist. The team is currently trying to secure the space at 772 9th Ave. in Hell’s Kitchen formerly occupied by Rico Steakhouse for the new concept. The team first debuted Guantanamera at 939 8th Ave. in Hell’s Kitchen in December 2008, nearly a decade later opening a second outpost of their Cuban concept known for its magnificent mojitos at 110-80 Queens Blvd. in November 2017.
GATA Bar + Kitchen is slated to offer 18 tables with 42 seats and one stand up bar with eight seats with anticipates hours of operation from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. from Monday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 1 a.m. from Friday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Sunday.
Its proposed menu includes small plates such as bourbon wings and octopus brusquetta, all-day sandos such as their blackened salmon burger, crispy mac and cheese burger and steak with egg, salads such as their ahi tuna and baby grilled caesar, house classics such as their jambalaya paella and plates including their porquetta and pork belly carbonara.
Billed by the New York Daily News as having “the best mojito in New York City,” Guantanamera is a “friendly, fun, vibrant Cuban restaurant featuring traditional Cuban fare, magnificent mojitos and love Cuban music.” It aims to “capture the essence of Old Havana with its exotic décor featuring exposed brick, candle-lit tables, rattan-covered ceiling fans and hand-painted folkloric murals.”
“Let the rhythm transport you to a place where rum libations flow, the music moves you, and the food feeds your soul,” the team writes on their website.
It offers “homemade Cuban specialities using the freshest ingredients, complimented with superb service in a warm and inviting atmosphere.”
Guantanamera serves lunch and dinner and also offers catering services. It offers appetizers such as yuquita frita, empanadas and ceviche, soups, sandwiches including a classic Cubano, paellas, and various fish and meat dishes.
It also offers a bar and lounge area with a “distinctive assortment of fine wines, rums, liquors, specialty cocktails and exceptional appetizers.”
