Owner/Operator and Executive Chef Nick Guitart has been in the restaurant business for 22 years and counting.  Educated at Georgetown, most by working in Georgetown local institution Clyde’s Restaurant, and at the French Culinary Institute in Soho, Nick has taken his vast accumulation of knowledge to finally open his own place.

With Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, a culinary education and 10 restaurant openings under his belt, Nick oversees not only the kitchen, but the front of the house as well using his experience to create a seamless, comfortable and personal dining experience for each and every person that comes into Open Door.

Long Island City residents’ battle over noisy bars continued Tuesday night when Community Board 2 heard discussions about a proposed establishment and continuing complaints about another.
A large part of the meeting was devoted to a new L.I.C. restaurant set to open this winter. Open Door, described as a casual-dining restaurant that would serve “American tapas,” is in the process of applying for a liquor license and seeking community support.
Michael Pisacane, 53, lives in the Badge Building at 10-55 47th Ave. and is a member of its board of directors. He is agreeable to having more restaurants in the area and wants Open Door to obtain a liquor license.
“There are hundreds of people like me who would like places to go to for dinner,” Pisacane said.
Executive chef for Open Door, Nick Guitart, was quick to assure C.B. 2 and area residents that the establishment would not be a nuisance and a great spot for locals. His business partner, Ryan Voerg, said Open Door would be the kind of place for “celebrations that deserve a toast,” such as bridal and baby showers.
The restaurant will consist of a seating area, bar and small lounge for private parties and dinners. It will not have any outdoor space.

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So, the presentation went brilliantly and we received a very positive response from the community. Although several people rose to speak in favor of us, the board was unable to vote due to missing board members. So, we wait. 7-10 should produce a vote from the board with a yay or nay on the liquor license. Fingers crossed, people!!

Thanks to all who supported us. In less than 2 weeks we asked 300 people and got 300 petition signatures for the liquor license. For those of you in LIC who are saying you want something fresh, delicious and AWESOME  in the lineup of places to eat out, WE HEAR YOU.