In a small storefront at the intersection of First Ave and East 10th Street used to sit Momofuku, but after a few tweaks it has become home to a new intimate East Village restaurant HAGS. This inclusive restaurant is the product of the minds of chef Telly Justice and sommelier Camille Lindsley that is “by Queer people, for all people.”
HAGS is both an acronym for “have a good summer” and an ode to the idea of an old hag, or a witchy woman—an idea that they’re turning upside down in their intimate restaurant that is serving up unapologetic joy.
From Justice, who will be the nightly chef, will come two tasty five course menus, one made regular and one vegan. Inspired by the many picnics and Queer potlucks that they hold many fond memories of and which defined their younger years, they wanted to carry that feeling of intimacy and closeness into their new space. Their intimate restaurant holds less than twenty seats, allowing them the opportunity to get to know each and every one of their guests.
They’re open for guests to grab a dinnertime bite Wednesday through Saturday from 5p.m. – 10p.m. and Sunday 5p.m. – 9p.m.
A Sunday “Pay What You Can” format offers their food menu on a first come first serve basis. This allows Justice and Lindsley to go a little off-script while also solidifying the fact that they’re a restaurant for everybody.
HAGS is even more than a restaurant, and their walls offer a home to a rotating selection of artists works. They plan to host pop ups with likeminded friends and will be using their “off hours” to host community events, private dining functions, and parties “just ’cause.”
HAGS main priority is to promote inclusivity for all, especially their Queer neighbors, so when they say they’re an NYC restaurant by Queer People for Queer People and everyone else, they really mean it!
Reservations can be made here. You can also enjoy their menu a-la-carte style at the bar on a first come first serve basis.
Keep up with them on Instagram here.