Riko
June 3, 2016 By Christian Murray
Riko Peruvian Cuisine, formerly known as Pio Pio Riko, is planning to offer its patrons sidewalk seating at its Greenpoint Avenue/46th Street location.
The restaurant, which currently occupies a prominent space at 45-23 Greenpoint Ave., got the approval of Community Board 2 last night to set up 10 tables and 20 seats on the 46th Street side of its restaurant.
The tables will be two abreast consisting of five rows, according to the attorney representing the restaurant.
The restaurant, best known for its rotisserie chicken, still needs the Department of Consumer Affairs to sign off before it can offer sidewalk seating, but that is likely to be a formality with the Community Board’s approval.
Two CB 2 members, however, did note that the 46th Street/Greenpoint Avenue area generates a great deal of pedestrian traffic and were concerned that there wouldn’t be enough sidewalk space.
The attorney for Riko responded that restaurant complied with City regulations and that there would be enough pedestrian space.
Rachel Thieme, executive director of the Sunnyside Shines Business Improvement District, said the BID supports Riko’s application, adding that it would lead to a more vibrant area.
Riko has a big presence in Sunnyside. It recently opened a second location at 43-22 Queens Blvd., which was formerly occupied by Dj’s Pawn Shop.
Meanwhile, Soleluna, an Italian restaurant located at 40-01 Queens Blvd., was also approved by the Community Board in its quest to set up five tables and 10 seats on 40th Street. It too needs the Department of Consumer Affairs to green light it.
The owner plans to open the sidewalk cafe as soon as possible.
Thieme also spoke in favor of Soleluna’s application.
