Carnivale   

Special Note: Carnivale will offer a special menu on New Year's Eve. Check back for details. He's conquered French fare, Asian eats and Italian vittles. So it's no surprise that quirky restaurateur Jerry Kleiner (Marche, Opera, Red Light, Gioco, Victor Hotel) makes South American cuisine his latest obsession. Named in honor of the flamboyant pre-Lenten holiday, Carnivale feels like a Latin house party, featuring vibrant colors, risque artwork, dramatic 35-foot velvet drapes and hip-shaking Latin grooves. Kleiner and his partners (real estate legend Bill Marovitz, as well as Sam Madonia, Bob Cataldo and Bud Cataldo) have selected the ideal space to make this bold statement in the massive canvas formerly known as Drink nightclub. Those familiar with Kleiner's venues will immediately spot trademark Kleiner touches: the outrageously large silk light fixtures, a catwalk overlooking the entire restaurant and numerous private dining areas (including the sunken dining room by the fireplace). Carnivale's menu travels across South America, stopping in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, El Salvador, Mexico, Peru and Puerto Rico. Highlights include Cuban-style beef empanadas, Peruvian scallop ceviche, Puerto Rican rum-glazed pork shoulder, handmade Salvadorian pupusa and Argentine marinated skirt steaks. Guests can gaze at the open kitchen where fresh ceviche and guacamole is prepared. Specialty cocktails include mojitos and margaritas.