🚕 Clam Bar Found Its Copycat

Good Morning NY!

Today, we’re saying goodbye to a Greenwich Village favorite as Llama San prepares to close its doors.

Meanwhile, an iconic Soho bistro is getting the documentary treatment, and a Montauk seafood spot is calling out a Manhattan newcomer for stealing its vibe.

Plus, Keith Lee is bringing his viral food fest to Brooklyn, and Queens is gearing up for its annual tasting event.

Let’s dig in.

Llama San to Close After Six Years in Greenwich Village

Llama San, the acclaimed Peruvian-Japanese restaurant in Greenwich Village, is closing on June 7.

The spot, known for its Nikkei cuisine, opened in 2019 under chef Erik Ramirez and Juan Correa.

It quickly became a favorite, earning a three-star review from The New York Times.

The team announced the closure on Instagram, thanking patrons for their support over the years.

They encouraged fans to stop by before the final service.

While Llama San is wrapping up, their other concepts, including Llama Inn in Brooklyn, and Papa San in Hudson Yards, will remain open.

Raoul’s Documentary to Debut at Tribeca Festival

Raoul’s, the iconic French bistro in Soho, is the subject of a new documentary titled Raoul’s, a New York Story.

The film was directed by Karim Raoul, son of co-founder Serge Raoul, along with Greg Olliver.

It has been over a decade in the making and will premiere at the Tribeca Festival.

Screenings are set for June 10, 11, and 15.

The documentary features interviews with acclaimed chefs like Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Tom Colicchio.

It covers the restaurant’s 50-year history, including its role in launching Keller’s career and its status as a celebrity hotspot.

The film also explores Karim’s journey in taking over the family business after his father’s passing in 2024.

Montauk’s Clam Bar Calls Out The Mark Hotel for Copycat Design

A branding dispute has flared up between the Clam Bar in Montauk and The Mark Hotel’s new seafood spot in Manhattan.

The Mark Clam Bar, led by Jean-Georges, has been accused of copying the distinctive red-and-white aesthetic of the original Montauk location.

The Montauk spot, known for its bold signage and beachy vibes, says it has received numerous messages from confused customers.

Some even assumed the two were officially linked.

Co-owner Kelly Piccinnini sent a cease-and-desist letter to The Mark on April 25, demanding changes.

The hotel responded by tweaking its signage, removing white borders, and adding “By Jean-Georges” to the branding.

However, Piccinnini argues that these adjustments aren’t enough and that the confusion could hurt her business’s future branding opportunities.

Keith Lee to Host Family Style Food Festival in Brooklyn

TikTok food critic Keith Lee is set to host the Family Style Food Festival at Industry City in Brooklyn on May 17.

Lee, known for his heartfelt reviews of small, independent restaurants, is teaming up with Complex for the event.

The lineup includes NYC icons like Lucali Pizza, Katz's Delicatessen, and Fish Cheeks.

Newcomers like Bonnie's and the pop-up Schmackwich will also be part of the mix.

Unique dishes will include a Scallion Pancake Burrito from a Nom Wah Tea Parlor collaboration.

Drinks will be provided by the acclaimed bar Double Chicken Please.

Lee says he takes his role as a critic seriously, focusing on honesty and respect for the work behind each dish.

He hopes the festival will capture the same spirit of authenticity that drives his TikTok journey.

Queens Taste Returns to the New York Hall of Science

Queens Taste 2025 is happening on May 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park.

The event, organized by the Queens Economic Development Corporation, is in its 21st year.

It will feature over 50 vendors, including local favorites like Neir’s Tavern, London Lennie’s, and Tipsy Scoop.

Attendees can sample food and drinks from around the borough, including bites from Gnocchi Bella Management and QNSY Sparkling Cocktails.

There will also be participants from QEDC’s Entrepreneur Space, a commercial kitchen and business incubator.

Drinks will range from craft beers to bubble tea and tropical juices.

Tickets are $125 each or $200 for a pair, with proceeds supporting QEDC’s mission to boost local businesses.

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