New Neighbor Roundup: LenLen, Motek & HOWOO

Several exciting new businesses have recently opened in the neighborhood. This month’s roundup features a variety of new neighbors from an innovative Thai restaurant to an all-day Mediterranean cafe. Stay in the know with the latest New Neighbors in Flatiron & NoMad.

LenLen, 40 East 20th Street, (646) 429-8220, @lenlen.nyc
The new Thai restaurant and bar LenLen is now open in Flatiron. Inspired by Bangkok’s 1970s shophouses, LenLen serves comfort food inspired by Thai farmer’s markets and craft cocktails. “We’re genuinely excited to be part of the Flatiron District, a neighborhood that blends architectural beauty, creative energy, and a deep appreciation for food and culture,” says the LenLen team. “It’s a place that feels both historic and forward-thinking, which really resonates with our vision for LenLen.” A common Thai expression, LenLen means “to play,” inviting guests to be in a relaxed atmosphere which is reflected within the restaurant’s design created to be an extension of one’s living room. LenLen’s commitment to sustainability and reduced-waste practices is reflected through their thoughtfully curated dishes and drinks.

To start, order the Market Roasted Chili Eggplant Dip served with Thai crudités and a salad such as the Salmon & Market Fruit Yum with raw ora king salmon. For a main, choose from a selection of curry, rice, wok, and noodle dishes. Highlights include the Crab Durian Curry made with coconut milk, Chicken Basil Fried Rice, Fried Fish Pad Cha featuring branzino, and Pad Kee Mao with beef. Pair your entrée with a cocktail such as a Jasmine Martini made with honey distilled vodka or the 5-Spice Boulevardier with rye whiskey. A selection of wine and beer is also available. Save room for dessert and end your meal with Sticky “R-ice” Cream & Farmer’s Market Fruit. Join LenLen for your next dinner out with friends and family! LenLen is open daily from 5 pm – 1 am.

Motek, 928 Broadway, (212) 537-6505, @motekcafe
Established in Miami in 2020, the all-day Mediterranean cafe Motek has opened their first NYC location in the neighborhood. Motek, meaning “sweetheart” in Hebrew, offers kosher-style and seed-oil free cooking within a bright, cheerful space. Guests can enjoy Founders Charlie and Tessa Levy’s cherished family recipes with modern twists. To begin, order the house-made Hummus served with warm, pillowy laffa bread as well as a couple shareable mezzes such as the Muhammara Spread with red bell pepper and Harissa Spare Ribs with braised lamb. Savor a variety of signature entrées filled with bold Mediterranean flavors including Shakshuka, a crowd-favorite, Crispy Chicken Schnitzel featuring challah, cabbage slaw, homemade pickles, and harissa aioli, and the Wagyu Burger accented by caramelized onion and pomegranate mint aioli. 

Complement your meal with a selection from Motek’s curated beverage program featuring classic and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails, fresh juices, smoothies, and specialty lattes. End your dining experience with a treat such as Pistachio Cheesecake or Turkish Baklava. Head to Motek for your next delicious brunch, lunch or dinner! Motek is open Monday – Thursday from 11 am – 10 pm, Friday from 11 am – 11 pm, Saturday from 10 am – 11 pm, and Sunday from 10 am – 10 pm.

HOWOO, 7 East 31st Street, (347) 504-5401, @howoo.nyc
HOWOO is a prime Korean barbecue destination in NoMad led by Urimat Hospitality Group. Guests can savor premium Korean barbecue for lunch or dinner in an upscale environment. The 250-seat restaurant includes spacious tables and private dining rooms for you to enjoy either an a la carte menu or packages depending on your party size. Whether you’re in a group of two, four, or six choose from HOWOO’s prime or elite packages that feature both prime-grade beef and accompaniments. The Quad Package features six courses of meat, each grilled and seasoned individually. To pair with the cuts of meat, the package also includes three rounds of accompanying dishes with highlights such as seasonal Banchan, Egg Soufflé, Stew with Kettle Pot Rice, and Nok-Cha Soft Serve. Also select a beverage with your meal from cocktails, beers, wines and non-alcoholic options. Visit HOWOO for your next celebration or group dinner! HOWOO is open Monday – Wednesday from 5 – 11 pm, Thursday – Friday from 5 pm – midnight, Saturday from 12 pm – midnight, and Sunday from 12 pm – 11 pm.

In addition to HOWOO, the 30K square foot space is also home to DubuHaus and Musaek. DubuHaus, is a tofu-driven dining concept featuring a range of traditional and innovative Korean dishes. DubuHaus makes their homemade tofu daily and offers diners to see it happen in real-time at the restaurant. Guests can enjoy an array of appetizers, bibimbap, and hotpot dishes in a casual atmosphere. Musaek is a chic seafood and cocktail bar centered on coastal dishes with ingredients sourced directly from the Korean coastline. The menu features raw selections and warm stews. Both DubuHaus and Musaek offer unique dining experiences rooted in flavor.

Header & Thumbnail Photo Credit: LenLen