Welcome back to Owen for Business! From the South Street Seaport to Battery Park City, an array of new establishments has just opened that will entice, surprise, and satisfy Lower Manhattanites. If you see any new retailers or changes to existing retailers, please email me at tre@downtownny.com. Thanks!

Soul Daddy - 189 Front Street, 212-269-2324

It’s no surprise that Jamawn Woods, winner of the reality TV competition “America’s Next Great Restaurant,” chose Lower Manhattan as the ideal spot for his new restaurant. Soul Daddy, located at the South Street Seaport, combines a fast-casual atmosphere with a new spin on old-school southern soul food.

There is no deep fryer on the premises and Soul Daddy uses only fresh ingredients. The menu includes baked battered chicken instead of fried, pulled-pork sandwiches, collard greens, sweet molasses mustard and much, much more. So if you’re in the mood for some food for the soul, head on down to Soul Daddy.

Red Mango – 111 Fulton Street, 212-321-3210

A kaleidoscope of frozen yogurt flavors awaits you at the recently opened Red Mango location on Fulton Street. You have your choice of Original, Pomegranate and eight other flavors that change depending on the season. This month’s offerings include delectable combinations such as Black Cherry, Raspberry Cheesecake and Dark Chocolate. All flavors, except Dark Chocolate, are nonfat and Red Mango is all-natural, gluten-free, probiotic and kosher. Also, this is the second Red Mango to offer completely self-serve frozen yogurt and smoothies. You can choose your favorite flavors and toppings combos, and create a personalized, delicious concoction. Oh, how sweet it is.

Shake Shack - 215 Murray Street, 646-545-4600

Shake Shack has opened in Lower Manhattan! Shake Shack’s reputation was undeniably established following the success of its original Madison Square Park location. Since then, quite a few locations have sprouted up throughout the city, and Danny Meyer has just opened his latest venture in Battery Park City.

The Shake Shack concept began as a modern day “roadside” burger stand serving delicious burgers, hot dogs, and frozen custard. The menu offers so much more to compliment that famous burger topped with ShackSauce. Shake Shack offers a vegetarian ‘shroom’ burger, a ‘concrete’ made with three layers of frozen custard, and ShackMeister Ale brewed in collaboration with Brooklyn Brewery. It’s no surprise that Shake Shack’s popularity has swept New York, and now Lower Manhattan has our very own spot just down the block.

Merchants Market – 10 Battery Place, New Amsterdam Plein & Pavillion, 212-248-0707

The New Amsterdam Plein & Pavillion designed by Ben van Berkel offers more than just a visual feast. Within the curved structure you will find Merchants Market, a café serving sandwiches, snacks and beverages. There are plenty of tables and seating to enjoy a gourmet snack or sip a refreshing beer. Merchants Market also is the only place in New York where you can get a ‘battery bun,’ which is a scrumptious combination of coffee cake, cinnabon, and deliciousness. And – right next door is a new Downtown Alliance visitor kiosk to help you get around.

Expo Barbers - 90 William Street, 212-785-8000

Owner Isaac Sosunov brings more than 10 years of hairstyling experience to Lower Manhattan. Expo Barbers opens at 7 AM to accommodate the busy rush-hour crowd, but once you recline in one of his leather chairs you won’t be in a hurry anymore. Relax while you watch your program of choice on the HD flat-screen. You’ll likely become a regular once you discover that your fifth haircut is free!

Regis Royal – 21 Rector Street, 212-321-3000

At Regis Royal you’ll find high ceilings, sunlight pouring in and a comfortable modern décor that will prepare you for a “royal” treatment. Menu items such as the bucatini and artichokes a la nona harken back to their Tuscan origins. At Regis Royal there is something for everyone. The tomato bisque and crab cakes already are popular favorites. The chargrilled burger on focaccia bread topped with mushrooms and manchego cheese, and accompanied by truffle and parmesan dusted fries, is a great excuse to leave the office for lunch.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try a salad or a thin-crust brick oven pizza, but don’t forget to save some room for dessert! The tiramisu, crème brulee, and assorted cakes are all made in-house and are the perfect finish to any meal.

Empire – 8 Murray Street, 212-346-9688

Empire serves a variety of Japanese, Chinese, and Thai cuisine in a comfortable and convivial space. Try one of its signature dishes, such as Thai mango shrimp, Szechuan triple crown, or orange and sesame beef.

The Copper Barrel – 6 Murray Street, 212-323-7100

A new partnership and a new makeover transformed KD Connelly’s Bar into The Copper Barrel. There is a party and game room downstairs, and all-day happy hour! Drink specials include $3 pints, $4 margaritas, and a variety of other food and drink specials.

Closings:

Maggie’s Cajun – 12 John Street
Hello Pasta -  125 Maiden Lane
L&M Cleaners – 7 Hanover Square
HSBC  – 100 Maiden Lane
Christopher Norman Chocolates – 60 New Street

Welcome back to Owen for Business! Featured in this issue is everything from spicy Asian fusion to where to find the best live music. If you see any new retailers or changes to existing retailers, please email me at tre@downtownny.com. Thanks!

Pita Press — 25 Cedar Street, 212-344-9737

Yogurt has never been this exciting. Pita Press, opened by the same owners of the successful Koyzina Kafe across the street, raises the bar from traditional to artisanal Greek fare. Stop by for the fruit and nut-infused yogurt, vegetarian and vegan pitas, imported olive oil and honey, and ‘Greek Mountain Tea’ brewed on the premises. And an added bonus: Each dish is served on eco-friendly plates.

Algonquin Seaport Theater — 89 South Street, 212-349-7505

The Algonquin Seaport Theater just opened its new location at Pier 17, overlooking the East River. Its diverse concert schedule includes jazz, bluegrass, karaoke and cabaret, all with breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge as a backdrop. Live music begins at 7 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. There are also children’s theater programs, like puppet shows, fairy tales, and historic re-enactments.

Charlotte’s Place — 109 Greenwich Street, 212-602-9661

Who said nothing in life is free? At Charlotte’s Place, the motto is ‘Open to All, Free to Use.” Discover computers with free WiFi, conference rooms, art shows, and poetry readings. When Charlotte Scott passed away, she left Trinity Church a generous donation leading to the establishment of Charlotte’s Place, a friendly oasis in the midst of the economic center of the world. While you’re there, stock up on another freebie: community spirit.

Murphy’s Tavern — 6 Stone Street, 212-425-1700

Manhattan can be a lonely place, but it doesn’t have to be. Tucked away down Stone Street you’ll find Murphy’s Tavern, recently opened by Brian Murphy. One visit and you’ll feel like an old neighborhood friend. There is also a large second-floor space, great for parties and gatherings with friends old and new. Swing by for Happy Hour (5-8 PM), or an after-dinner brew.

My Suit –- 30 Broad, 646-556-7430

When asked about the vision for My Suit, VP of retail James Hancock said two words (at least I think it’s two words): mass-market customization. Starting at $495, clients can have a customized suit made just for them. Hancock explains that My Suit keeps the cost of a custom-made suit down because they own their own fabric mill. Once your measurements are taken, your new suit will be ready in two weeks for pickup. Plus, it’s easy to order more suits in your size from My Suit’s website. You can ask for James Hancock when scheduling an appointment, although it quickly becomes just “Jimmy.” (Appointments preferred, walk-ins welcome).

Laila Rowe – 99 Wall Street, 212-785-0725

Find hats, clothing and everything else you’d need for a night out on the town at this accessories haven. Feel free to roam the aisles and peruse the shelves while swaying to the lively music.

Koko — 120 Greenwich Street, 212-321-6600

For those who lamented the loss of Lili’s Noodle Shop, take heart, because Kenny Yin is back with his recently opened Koko. This Asian Fusion restaurant combines flavors from Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine, and also has a sushi bar. Some of the specialties of the house are the spiciest, and those whose taste buds are up to the challenge will be greatly rewarded. The interior design is a bit of fusion itself, with scarlet red walls, modern lighting design and Asian-inspired artwork.

Closings:
Borders, at 100 Broadway, has closed.
Zibetto Espresso Bar, at 102 Fulton Street, has closed.
J.P. Mustard, at 1 Seaport Plaza, has closed.
Caracello Ristorante, at 108 Greenwich Street, has closed.