The Oak & Iris has signs posted that they'll be closed through Monday, January 30 due to "operational problems" (thanks to Amber for noticing).
The cafe has been going through some changes recently, as you may have noticed. In the fall signs went up announcing a new chef, and then earlier this month there was talk on the KWT Neighbors Yahoo Group that another new chef would be taking over.
Then recently Craigslist has a listing for the space, saying it was available for sale or rent. I spoke with owner Aleksandra "Sasha" Kameneva about the listing, and she confirmed that she was looking for someone who would take over and give the space the love that the neighborhood deserves.
"Hopefully they wouldn't want to change it," she said. "That they keep it for the neighborhood the same way they like it."
Sasha explained that running the cafe, which she opened about three years ago, was too much for her alone, which is why she tried having the chef take over in the fall. But she is looking for a more suitable replacement, to keep the space to a higher standard.
"I know how important it is to the neighborhood, because I live here as well," she said.
We've been unable to reach Sasha for more information about why the cafe is closed at the moment, but we look forward to seeing it back open on Monday. If you're interested in learning more about the space, you can contact Sasha at whereissasha@nyc.rr.com.
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