Beyond a Restaurant, a Landmarks Preservationist

When Alfama was just a glimpse in Miguel Jerónimos' eyes, the preoccupation with preserving the architectural integrity of Greenwich Village was always part of her plans. Prior to its opening on December 1, 1999, Alfama restaurant partnered with the Landmarks Preservation Commission in an effort to restore the space it would occupy to its original turn-of-the-century façade.

Located on the street level of a residential building at 551 Hudson Street, at the corner of Perry Street in West Greenwich Village, Alfama undertook complete restoration of the storefront façade reminiscent of the Romanesque Revival. Built in 1900, the building was designed by Moore & Landsiedel for G. Otto Elterich and retains conservative elements such as the round-arched top floor. The splayed lintels with keystones belong to the later classical trend in design.

“I’m very happy Alfama came to our neighborhood, both because the food is excellent and because of the wonderful restoration work they have done,” said Professor Maria de Vasconcelos, a Portuguese national and local resident. “I’ve lived in this area for the past 15 years and it upsets me to see old buildings be replaced by modern structures.” She continued, “the fact that they conducted careful research and took the time to find the appropriate look for the outside of the restaurant, shows a great deal of respect and commitment to the community.”

The restoration project involved ripping out layers of sheet rock, insulation, metallic-framed windows, gooseneck lights and other synthetic materials and replacing them with mahogany wood and free-standing columns with Roman Ionic capitals which frame large glass windows. “The final result is a cleaner, more open space, allowing natural light throughout the restaurant,” said Alberto d’Avanzo, the architect in charge of the project. All architectural changes were reviewed and approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission, which classified them as “authentic per the original building plan.” As a result of the restoration, Alfama received a permit to operate a sidewalk café during the summer.

Alfama, fine Portuguese cuisine is located in the West Village at 551 Hudson Street, corner of Perry Street. The restaurant can accommodate up to 50 people indoors and up to 26 at its sidewalk café. All major credit cards accepted. Open for lunch Monday through Saturday and Sunday brunch from 12 to 3 p.m. Dinner is served from 6 to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and is extended until midnight on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, dinner starts at 5 PM and is served until 11 p.m. Corporate luncheons and private functions can be arranged by booking in advance. Live performances take place on Wednesdays (Fado music) and Thursdays (Jazz) from 8 to 10:30 pm. For reservations, please call 212/645-2500 or visit Alfama's web site at www.alfamarestaurant.com.