Bistango, the critically acclaimed restaurant on the lobby level of Irvine’s Atrium building, has just completed a massive remodel of its interior space. Internationally renowned architect/designer Michael Carapetian, who has designed and reimagined commercial spaces all around the world including some of owner John Ghoukassian’s other restaurants, led the project.
Among the new touches are an expanded 360 degree bar with a lighted onyx top; new booths and sofas featuring a contemporary charcoal fabric; stained and whitewashed wide plank oak flooring; sleek steel topped hostess stand; remodeled bathroom interiors including marble countertops, chrome fixtures and designer wallpaper; and a new color palette of muted earth tones and charcoals lending the perfect backdrop to the newly installed contemporary art exhibit.
“Michael and I did some massive preliminary planning so that we could complete the remodel with as little impact on our guests as possible,” said owner John Ghoukassian. “We had various teams working around the clock and are gratified that we achieved our goal.”
The restaurateur has enjoyed a long relationship with Carapetian, who resides in Venice, Italy most of the year. The designer was responsible for Ghoukassian’s first project, the Chattanooga in Iran, and several of his subsequent restaurants in the states.
Bistango is renowned for its diverse menu of fine American cuisine set in an airy atmosphere distinguished by fine art exhibits and large umbrellas that suspend from the ceiling lending great intimacy. Bistango also features an extensive cocktail list of classics and house specialties and a varied wine list. New to its beverage offerings are beers on draft and 30 craft beers by the bottle, which include some difficult to acquire selections.
Posted by Rachel Allan
11/03/14
