With an artistic, globally-influenced flair from the food to the decor, 1881 Kitchen Table will make its debut in Westchester County on Thursday, July 18.
The restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Port Chester in a historic space that offers a distinct experience. It will showcase a mix of global flavors and features a wood-fired oven, hand carved salt brick meat aging room, a sleek bar, a unique espresso bar, and an elegant wine room with a semi-private mezzanine. Chef Frank Azulay has teamed up with owners Jennifer and Udi Livne of Harrison to bring the concept to life.
The restaurant’s name was inspired by the history of the building which was constructed in 1881. It housed a variety of unique establishments, as it was previously the town’s library, a gentleman's room, and a speakeasy, as well as Siegels and Hart Schaffner Marx clothing stores (both names have been restored to remain visual on the building facade).
The name of the restaurant gives a nod to the past, present and future as Port Chester continues its rapid growth and development.
The 94+ seat space will be the canvas for Chef Azulay’s vibrant global fare, which will be prepared in a bustling open-concept kitchen highlighted by a centerpiece wood-fired oven where most dishes will be made.
Born and raised in France, Chef Azulay will draw on years of experience across standout restaurants in Israel and his vast travels to create dishes that showcase a mix of cultures.
There are many features that set 1881 apart, and the most impressive is the large wood-fired oven with a copper dome. Contributed photo
There are many features that set 1881 apart, and the most impressive is the large wood-fired oven with a copper dome. The hand carved salt brick meat aging room is another and a first-of-its-kind in the area. The aging room is a chamber that is equipped with walls made from bricks of Himalayan pink salt, which plays a significant role in creating the perfect conditions for maturing steaks and creates a distinctive flavor for guests.
1881 also features a unique espresso bar by Modbar to provide an elevated coffee experience alongside indulgent desserts that are prepared in-house daily by the restaurant’s pastry chef.
In addition, the wine room boasts a 12-seat semi-private mezzanine that offers guests an intimate setting for celebrations or group outings.
The menu, which reflects the simplicity that goes back to the roots of clean, elemental cooking, will rotate regularly to feature the season’s freshest ingredients. It features a mix of small plates and butcher’s cuts from the meat aging room. The sleek bar and elegant wine room enhances the energy of the space.
Julio Enriquez will lead an inventive beverage and bar program for 1881. He has extensive experience in the space having worked with restaurants like Moli, Hinoki, and Blue Hill at Stone Barns. With the help of lead bartender Sebastian Rodriguez, Julio will incorporate elements of the restaurant into the programming, such as a beeswax and smoked old fashioned inspired by the wood-fired oven, and a reimagined beet and walnut butter cocktail inspired by one of chef’s incredible salads. The wine menu will also feature a variety of selections from boutique producers.
Similar to the worldwide menu, the design of the space has historic influences, and features salvaged elements that were globally sourced by the owners and forged and textured over open fire by a local blacksmith. The open kitchen and wood-fired oven creates a warm and inviting vibe, and unique hand-crafted accents add an eclectic element.
Owner Jennifer Livne said, “Udi and I are passionate about this historic property and fell in love with the potential of the building. We wanted to preserve yet modernize the space for everyone in the area to experience something unique. We teamed up with a true artist of food (Chef) and artist of drink (Julio) to help us build an exceptional experience off the canvas we designed, where the food and drink will come to life when it hits the table.”
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There are many features that set 1881 apart, and the most impressive is the large wood-fired oven with a copper dome.[/caption]
“We believe in mastering the art of food with simple elements that enhance the highest quality ingredients,” said Chef Azulay. “I think of a plate as an opportunity where I can create something beautiful and memorable. I look forward to drawing on my global experience to bring guests standout food and a menu that will change regularly to incorporate the season's bounty.”
1881 Kitchen Table will be open for dinner service Tuesday through Saturday, and later this summer will be open on Sundays as well as offer brunch. Reservations can be made on Resy or by calling the restaurant directly.
The restaurant is located at 112 N Main Street in Port Chester.
Street parking is conveniently located in the front of the restaurant with two rear parking lots directly behind, and additional parking is located in the surrounding blocks.
For more information, please visit the website at 1881kitchen.com/.
With an artistic, globally-influenced flair from the food to the decor, 1881 Kitchen Table is located in the heart of downtown Port Chester in a historic space that offers a distinct experience. It showcases a mix of global flavors and features a wood-fired oven, hand carved salt meat aging room, a sleek bar, a unique espresso bar, and an elegant wine room with a semi-private mezzanine. Executive Chef Frank Azulay has teamed up with owners Jennifer and Udi Livne of Harrison to bring the concept to life. 1881 Kitchen Table is open for dinner service Tuesday through Saturday, and later this summer will be open on Sundays as well as offer brunch. Reservations can be made on Resy or by calling the restaurant directly.
The restaurant is located at 112 N Main St, Port Chester. Street parking is conveniently located in the front of the restaurant with two rear parking lots directly behind, and additional parking is located in the surrounding blocks. For more information, please visit the website at 1881kitchen.com/.

