Piccolo MORINI Strengthens the MORINI Legacy with a Vibrant New Concept in SoHo, NYC

In June 2026, Piccolo MORINI will open its doors at 40 Kenmare Street, marking the return of a beloved name in New York’s dining scene. The new venture from Altamarea Group aims to reimagine the legacy of Osteria MORINI, which was a cornerstone of SoHo for nearly 15 years. Known for its warm hospitality and handmade pasta, the original restaurant garnered a loyal following. Piccolo MORINI seeks to capture that essence while appealing to a new generation of diners.

A Fresh Take on Italian Cuisine

Piccolo MORINI is designed to reflect the vibrant energy of contemporary downtown Manhattan. The restaurant will offer a more social and design-forward dining experience, focusing on exceptional pasta craftsmanship and curated small plates. Chef Bill Dorrler, the opening chef of Osteria MORINI, will lead the kitchen, ensuring that the culinary identity that made MORINI a neighborhood favorite remains intact. Dorrler has a long-standing relationship with the brand, having also overseen operations in Washington, D.C.

The menu will feature a variety of cicchetti and shareable plates, alongside over a dozen fresh pasta dishes. Iconic favorites from the original restaurant will make a return, including the mascarpone-stuffed cappelletti with truffles and prosciutto, as well as the gramigna with sausage ragù, white wine, and tomato. These dishes aim to evoke nostalgia for longtime patrons while introducing new diners to the flavors that helped define the MORINI name.

An Inviting Atmosphere

Designed by Alsún Keogh of nusla design, the physical space of Piccolo MORINI combines vintage Italian influences with modern downtown flair. The interior features bronze mirrors, Murano glass lighting, and repurposed Italian furnishings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Bold colors and patterned wallpapers add a youthful energy, making it a destination for both casual diners and those looking for a more refined experience.

The restaurant will accommodate 92 indoor seats, including a main dining room, bar, and semi-private dining area. An additional 40 outdoor seats will extend onto Kenmare Street during warmer months, providing a lively setting for al fresco dining.

A Focus on Cocktails and Community

Piccolo MORINI’s beverage program will emphasize martinis and approachable luxury. The bar will feature a “Golden Happy Hour” and offer $9 martinis all night, making it an attractive option in a city where cocktail prices are on the rise. A carefully curated selection of wines by the glass will complement the martini-focused menu, encouraging guests to linger and socialize.

The restaurant aims to be more than just another Italian dining establishment; it seeks to become a true neighborhood gathering place. Throughout the summer, Piccolo MORINI will broadcast World Cup matches, creating an energetic environment that reflects the excitement of downtown New York.

A Commitment to Culinary Excellence

Altamarea Group has chosen to honor the spirit of the original MORINI while adapting to the evolving tastes of modern diners. With Chef Bill Dorrler at the helm and a menu rooted in exceptional pasta craftsmanship, Piccolo MORINI is poised to become one of SoHo’s most exciting restaurant openings in 2026. The combination of a design aesthetic that merges tradition with innovation and a martini program that stands out in the city positions Piccolo MORINI as a neighborhood destination that feels both familiar and fresh.

As reported by hauteliving.com.

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Published on 2026-06-08 20:38:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk