New York City is filled with outdoor dining options, but some restaurants go far beyond placing a few tables on the sidewalk. Selene, a newly opened Greek restaurant at 23 Grand Street in SoHo, is one of those rare places where the outdoor experience has been carefully designed to feel truly special.
Inside, the restaurant offers a beautifully crafted dining room, but its standout feature is the breathtaking atrium with a retractable roof that opens to the night sky. Framed by olive trees and illuminated with soft, atmospheric lighting, the space evokes the charm and romance of a Mediterranean evening. The retractable ceiling is a thoughtful tribute to Selene, the Greek goddess of the moon, allowing diners to enjoy the beauty of the sky while they eat.
The experience doesn’t end there. Selene also features a lush garden terrace, giving guests a second outdoor setting that’s equally inviting and perfect for warm summer nights. Together, these two thoughtfully designed spaces make Selene one of NYC’s most impressive destinations for outdoor dining. As stunning as the atmosphere is, the restaurant’s authentic Greek cuisine ensures the food is every bit as unforgettable as the surroundings.
The attention to detail extends well beyond the outdoor spaces. Co-founders Reno Christou, known for the success of Avra and Kyma, and James Ragonese, who spent more than a decade with Philippe by Philippe Chow, have created an impressive 10,000-square-foot restaurant where every element has been carefully considered.
Spanning three levels of beautifully designed dining rooms, Selene blends modern luxury with timeless Greek influences. Designed by acclaimed Greek architect Theodore Kondylis, the interiors feel like a sculptural sanctuary inspired by the natural beauty of the Mediterranean. Travertine stone, handcrafted plaster arches, flowing linen drapery, warm terracotta accents, and graceful Cycladic-inspired curves come together to create a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
Adding to its authenticity, the restaurant’s custom furniture, ceramics, lighting fixtures, and textiles were all specially crafted in Greece exclusively for Selene. The result is a space that captures the elegance and tranquility of the Aegean, offering guests the feeling of stepping into a luxurious Greek retreat right in the heart of SoHo.
Source: timeout
Edited by Bernie
