How Otakoi Was Made
When Hanna and Micheal got the keys to their new space on Chapel Street, it was completely empty. They knew it was a big job, but they were excited to start building their restaurant.
Micheal took the lead on the building work. With his practical skills, he did almost all of the construction himself. For weeks, he worked hard building the walls, putting in the new floors, and setting up the kitchen area where he would eventually cook.
While Micheal handled the construction, Hanna focused on the design and decoration. She wanted to bring a real piece of her Ukrainian home to the restaurant. Her biggest project was a large art object for the main wall – a panel representing a picture of poppies. Hanna embroidered the panel herself, putting hours of careful work into this beautiful centerpiece.
To continue the theme of natural Ukrainian symbols, she also made special lamps from wheat. She even decorated the mirrors with wheat, tying the whole room together with this golden, rustic touch.
Everything in the restaurant is a result of their teamwork. Micheal built the physical space, and Hanna added the artistic, personal decorations.
It’s a place that was truly built by them, for you.
