New York City, November 19, 2025
Motek, a popular Mediterranean restaurant chain from Miami, will be opening its new location in Greenwich Village at the former site of El Faro Restaurant. Known for its kosher-style Mediterranean cuisine, including signature dishes like the Arayes Burger and fresh branzino, the restaurant aims to create a warm, inviting atmosphere inspired by Tel Aviv. The new establishment signifies a strong entrepreneurial spirit and contributes to the local culinary scene and economic growth in Manhattan.
Motek Expands Into Greenwich Village, New York City
A Mediterranean Culinary Experience Set to Brighten Manhattan’s Culinary Scene
New York City – The much-anticipated opening of Motek, a Miami-based Mediterranean restaurant chain, will soon bring a taste of its acclaimed cuisine to the charming streets of Greenwich Village. This new establishment will be housed in the historic location of El Faro Restaurant, which served Spanish delicacies from 1927 until its closure in 2012, making it a meaningful addition to the culinary landscape of Manhattan.
Founded in 2020 by capable husband-and-wife duo Charlie and Tessa Levy, Motek quickly gained popularity across Florida. With successful openings in locations like Coral Gables and South Beach, the brand’s expansion into New York City, initiated earlier this year with a Flatiron District location, reflects a robust entrepreneurial spirit. This type of venture showcases the resilience of small businesses and their capacity to adapt and innovate in a competitive marketplace.
Motek’s Unique Offerings
Motek is celebrated for its kosher-style Mediterranean cuisine, featuring signature dishes that include the award-winning Arayes Burger, shakshuka, and fresh branzino. Each dish embodies authenticity, appealing not just to locals but also to the diverse food lovers that call New York home. The menu is complemented by house-baked pita and velvety hummus, making it a culinary destination worth exploring.
A Design that Welcomes
The design of Motek’s restaurants reflects its Tel Aviv-inspired roots, featuring vibrant sunshine yellow accents and floral details that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. This thoughtful aesthetic cultivates a sense of community—a vital component of any small business aimed at thriving in New York City.
Significance of the Location
Setting up shop at 823 Greenwich Street brings Motek into a neighborhood rich in history and dining culture. The presence of a well-regarded restaurant like Motek can revitalizes the area, creating additional jobs and stimulating local economic growth. Such entrepreneurial ventures not only contribute to the culinary diversity of New York but also enable neighborhoods to thrive economically.
Future Prospects
While the exact opening date of the Greenwich Village location is still to be announced, the excitement is palpable among residents and food enthusiasts alike. As New York continues to recover and evolve, Motek’s commitment to providing authentic Mediterranean flavors serves as a reminder of the resilience and innovation that characterize the city’s small businesses.
Supporting Local Entrepreneurship
New York City’s rich tapestry of restaurants is largely shaped by the vigor of its small businesses. Each new restaurant not only brings flavors from around the world but also signals a step forward in economic recovery. By supporting local entrepreneurs like those behind Motek, residents contribute to a more dynamic and prosperous community.
As the Greenwich Village location gears up for its opening, take a moment to explore Motek’s offerings and consider visiting to support this exciting new addition in New York’s vibrant dining scene.
Conclusion
Motek’s new location in Greenwich Village is a testament to the thriving spirit of entrepreneurship and small-business resilience in New York City. By understanding the importance of supporting local businesses, residents can help foster a robust economic environment that empowers community growth and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Motek’s new Greenwich Village location opening?
Motek is opening its new Greenwich Village location at 823 Greenwich Street, the former site of El Faro Restaurant.
When is the Greenwich Village location expected to open?
The exact opening date for the Greenwich Village location has not been announced yet.
What is Motek known for?
Motek is known for its kosher-style Mediterranean cuisine, including dishes like the award-winning Arayes Burger, shakshuka, branzino, house-baked pita, and creamy hummus.
Where else does Motek have locations?
Motek has locations in Coral Gables, Brickell, South Beach, and Boca Raton in Florida.
What is the design aesthetic of Motek’s restaurants?
Motek’s restaurants feature vibrant sunshine yellow accents and floral touches, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects its Tel Aviv-inspired roots.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 823 Greenwich Street, New York City |
| Former Establishment | El Faro Restaurant (1927–2012) |
| Opening Date | To be announced |
| Menu Highlights | Award-winning Arayes Burger, shakshuka, branzino, house-baked pita, creamy hummus |
| Design Aesthetic | Vibrant sunshine yellow accents, floral touches, Tel Aviv-inspired atmosphere |
| Other Locations | Coral Gables, Brickell, South Beach, Boca Raton (Florida) |
Now Happening on X
- @nypostbiz (November 16, 2025): Mediterranean cafe Motek expanding to Bleecker Street — its fourth Manhattan location. View on X
- @nypost (November 16, 2025): Mediterranean cafe Motek expanding to Bleecker Street — its fourth Manhattan location. View on X
- @NYBizJournal (November 18, 2025): A Miami-based restaurant is opening a location in the former Le Figaro Café space. View on X
- @P_F_Lherisson_ (November 13, 2025): New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s radical policy proposals have prompted high-profile restaurateur Stratis Morfogen to cancel plans to open new businesses. View on X
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- @EdCleary1 (November 14, 2025): NYC restaurateur cancels expansion plans following Mamdani victory, vowing not to sign more leases in New York and focusing on Miami and other cities. View on X
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