Piggyback Bar

Project Info

Our firm collaborated with Leah Cohen, Top Chef alumni, and her husband Ben Byruch, as they infuse the Chelsea neighborhood with flavors inspired from Cohen’s travels through Asia in their latest restaurant, Piggyback NYC.

Following success at their Lower East Side eatery, Pig & Khao, Leah expands her culinary footprint to a new space designed by Ben. Described by her husband as, “60s and 70s New York City, mixed with someone’s grandmother’s basement.” Piggyback NYC is an exciting experience for both foodies and people searching for the next trendy stomping ground.

The Asian influence translates beyond the food to the restaurant space. With a seating capacity of 100 people, Piggyback NYC boasts an industrial look with exposed brick walls and a tin ceiling. The neon lights pull from thoroughfares found throughout major Asian cities – from Nathan Road in Hong Kong to Yaowarat Road in Bangkok. The walls feature a hodgepodge of old newspaper clippings from different Asian localities, as well as recognizable film posters and vintage advertisements.

We furnished executive architect and technical assistance, coordinated contractor and building ownership requirements, and obtained approvals and permits for the updated restaurant. This included a reorganized kitchen, exhaust, and Ansul systems, as well as an expanded main bar and newly designed second bar at the back-event space.