Indeed, not too long ago, it was stripped from the building exterior, and instead replaced with a new set of windows.  Hopefully the Max Feinberg nameplate will remain intact…

As for Casa Mezcal, the new operation will reportedly include cinema/live music in the basement, bar/restaurant on the main level, a gallery on the second floor, and a workshop on the third.

Basically, if you are planning a hoity-toity dinner party and need that extra oomph, this faux hipster couple will be your lifeline. Together, Vicky and Lysander speacialize in so-called “interactive parties.”

Here’s more from Grand Opening:

The mustachioed Lysander and his “girlfriend” Vicky will greet you as your age-old friends who are just having you over for dinner, and proceed to do whatever you want—spur stimulating dinner conversation or create an evening of frivolity that may include Pictionary, a “Purple Rain” dance party or some amateur fortune-telling.

Purchase tickets here.

But before we could grab what was needed back at Boogie HQ, a dozen or so Orthodox Jewish men entered the storefront with prayer books in hand, and began chanting.  After all, it was 2:30 pm, and time for the afternoon service (Mincha).  The cramped aisles, lined floor to ceiling with cardboard boxes, became impassable.  It was a sight to behold.

Quite unique that the storefront provides sanctuary for a collection of neighborhood Jews seeking prayer.  We were told that this is a normal occurrence at Ideal Hosiery.

The Grand Street institution (with its awesome signage) has been a family-owned business since 1950, and is currently run by Len Friedman.

The Voice racks up ten of the worst landlords in New York City in this first installment. Did yours make the cut? [Village Voice]

A short documentary about Mosaic Man Jim Power is in the running for the PBS best short film. The winning entry will be aired Saturday night. Vote here [EV Grieve]

Some of the vendors that are participating in the Hester Street Fair – An Choi, Luke’s Lobster, Malbon Bros. BBQ, Sigmund Pretzel Shop, and Mile End. Roni-Sue’s Chocolates is now in the club [Grub St]

The Landmarks Preservation Commission just approved the facade of the new Great Jones Hotel [Curbed]

The government finally recognizes Ray as Ray [Neither More Nor Less]

In the early weekday hours, it is a common sight to see workers at the neighboring restaurant supply businesses stop and marvel at this rising Bowery behemoth.  Upward growth continues.

From the Boogie inbox:

CRAFTERMATH presents an LES alternative to St. Patrick’s Day mayhem in a hybrid boutique/bar.

Punk crafts, film shorts, subversive song!

From 7 til 9pm-ish:

The CRAFTERMATH creative forces sell punk crafts and unusual art at a neighborhood treat-to-behold that features emerging designers and vintage goods. Our artwork is affordable, along w/the drinks. Happy Hour features a $ 5 beer and whiskey combo.

We’ll show a collage of films by NYC underground filmmaker LISA HAMMER on the gold-framed movie screen. JESSICA DELFINO will share a new song, perhaps on an uncommon instrument. You can celebrate Women’s History Month w/us, and still make it in plenty of time to get out to some place far less cool-looking to drink your green beer – if you still insist!

Hoping you can join CRAFTERMATH for exciting and unusual fun times!

The Dressing Room Boutique & Bar
75A Orchard Street (btw. Broome & Grand Sts.)
7 til 9pm-ish
FREE

Now, one year later, floral memorials with pictures of the fallen grace light posts near the intersection.

Unfortunately, there is little information documented about this business, which was allegedly established in 1947.  These days, 131 Chrystie Street is occupied by Envoy Gallery and the bar Home Sweet Home.