| Kiev Restaurant | |
|---|---|
 Interactive map of Kiev Restaurant | |
| Restaurant information | |
| Established | 1978 (1978) |
| Closed | 2006 (2006) |
| Previous owner | Michael Hrynenko |
| Location | 117 Second Avenue,New York City,New York, 10003, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 40°43′40.8″N73°59′18.4″W / 40.728000°N 73.988444°W /40.728000; -73.988444 |
TheKiev Restaurant (also known as theKiev Diner or simplyThe Kiev) was aUkrainian restaurant located in theEast Village section ofNew York City.
Founded in 1978[1] by Soviet emigrant to the United States Michael Hrynenko (1954–2004), the site was the former location of Louis Auster's Candy Shop, who was one of the original creators of theegg cream.[2]
Kiev for most of its existence was open for business 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It was located at 117 Second Avenue, on the southwest corner of the intersection of Second Avenue and Seventh Street. At one time, the area was known as the "Pierogi Belt" because of the large number of Ukrainian restaurants; by 2007, only a few remained, such asVeselka. Kiev was popular for Ukrainians who attendedSt. George's Church down the street, who would go out for brunch after service at Kiev. In its original form, Kiev was closed in 2000 by its owner.[3] It then went through several abortive remodelings and reopenings, closing for good in 2006.
The cuisine was largelyEastern European, includingpierogi,challah,matzah brei,kasha varnishkis (kasha overbow-tie pasta),blintzes, fruitcompote and so on, though typically American items such asfrench fries were also available.[4]
The restaurant was a local cultural institution, famed not only for its cuisine and perpetual availability but also for the eclectic and colorful variety of patrons. It is mentioned in the song "Detachable Penis" by the bandKing Missile. PoetsAllen Ginsberg andTed Berrigan included the Kiev in poems. The restaurant had many other notable regulars during its tenure.
Thickly sliced homemade challah is the base for the hefty and delicious French toast served at the Kiev Restaurant, a lively and colorful luncheonette