New Event Space Planned For Lucharitos In Greenport

GREENPORT, NY — Fans of Lucharitos in Greenport have some good news that could be coming soon: Owner Marc LaMaina has plans to transform the area upstairs from the eatery into a private event space.

"I have been wanting to create an event space for large private parties for some time," LaMaina said. "To me there is nothing better than a long table filled with food, drinks, and friends and family. I finally got my family on board with the concept of family style dinners served in a fresh, fun and more of a private, and grander, space."

Plans are moving ahead, he said. LaMaina said he recently met with the Greenport Village building department. "They seem interested and supportive in direction and laying out the guidelines," he said. In addition, a preliminary meeting with an engineer is scheduled for next week, after which the planning and design process can commence; the layout of the space would stay the same, LaMaina said.

"There will be a pretty large initial investment but I've gotten used to putting everything back into the business. And here we go again," he said.

His vision, LaMaina said, is one that includes pitchers of margaritas on tables full of bowls of carne asada steak, adobo chicken, fresh salsa and guacamole, cheeses and warm tortillas.

There will be three private rooms with a total seating capacity of 91 people, LaMaina said; in the center there will be a shared fun room with some "cool retro games to play free of charge."

In addition, he said, a shared space bar and lounge area will be made to highlight some of the more non-traditional tequilas, where guests can enjoy a cocktail before or after an event.

"I want a swanky Tijuana feel. Servers will be in vests and slacks. And a bit more serious than the vibe downstairs," he said.

Not to be forgotten, LaMaina said, is the creation of a small office with room to spread my arms and not hit a wall. It's tough working out of an old hallway. But it keeps it fun."

In a heartfelt tribute, LaMaina said he plans to name the space, "Abuelos" or "grandparents."

The name is meant to honor his grandfather, who once sold men's clothing downstairs "that was swanky and hip for the times — and my grandmother who was just such a character and loving and graceful. And who also had a clothing store downstairs."

He added, "This new space we are creating was their home. It was my home. It means everything to myself and my family and I hope it becomes a great shared space for the community."

Little Lucharitos moving full steam ahead

And in other great news for Lucharitos lovers, plans for a second location, Little Lucharitos, in Aquebogue are moving ahead, LaMaina said; he just received his building permit, is meeting with a build team Wednesday, and plans to open "as quickly as possible."

Patch courtesy photo.