EAST VILLAGE — A West Village oyster bar known for its intimate and narrow space is expanding into roomier digs in the East Village this fall.
Virgola, which opened in a six-foot-wide alleyway on Greenwich Avenue two years ago, will move into a second location three times larger at 111 East Seventh St. in November, said owner Joseph Marazzo.
Despite the extra elbow room, Virgola’s new location will have the same vibe as the original, Marazzo said, with a dimly lit, black interior similar to the Greenwich Avenue bar and a new steel bar.
“It’s dark and sexy, more of an aphrodisiac style of an oyster bar,” he said.
The bar, which will seat about 50 people, will also serve a selection of affordably priced fresh oysters as well as an “oyster flight,” which serves the shellfish in pairs so that diners can share the experience with another person at their table.
“I think that’s sort of a romantic, interactive way to experience the oysters, Marazzo said.
Diners can also pair the seafood with a selection of Italian wines, including a Virgola-brand prosecco and spumante rose, Marazzo said. Virgola will also serve beer, he added.
Virgola has applied for a beer and wine license, according to documents filed with Community Board 3.
