When we got wind of Gaston Acurio’s plan to open an outpost of his La Mar cebicheria in the former Tabla space, we wondered whether nearby Nuela would feel the competition. Chef Adam Schop tells us he isn’t worried: “Chef Acurio’s announcement to set up shop in NYC is validation that restaurants such as Nuela are not just filling a niche but also helping establish a benchmark for Latin cuisine.” In fact, he’s not only planning to multiply the Nuela concept (first in Miami and London), he reveals to us that he and his backers will also open an Argentine steakhouse: Marca — which will use live fire ovens and an authentic parilla, and serve staples such as empanadas, chorizo, and grilled meats — will go into the 90-seat space that formerly housed Ottima, at 6 West 24th Street. Expect an opening in late spring. In the meantime, Nuela launches lunch on March 30.
