Artsy Italian Eatery Casino Is Dimes Square's Newest Hot Spot

Whether you refer to the area as Dimes Square, Two Bridges, or "that part of the Lower East Side that's kinda more like Chinatown," we can all agree on one thing: Casino is the trendiest new eatery to arrive there.

Just opened in the former Mission Chinese space on East Broadway (RIP), the artsy new spot is the first restaurant from Aisa Shelley, the owner behind buzzy local watering holes Mr. Fong's and Primo's in Tribeca.

At Casino, you'll find coastal Italian fare from Chef Ken Addington, who utilizes the kitchen's wood-burning oven for rustic seafood dishes like wood-fired prawns and a whole roasted turbot. There's lobster Cioppino Casino, a seafood stew overflowing with shrimp, mussels, clams, black bass, crab, and, of course, lobster, as well as a range of pasta dishes and roasted veggies. Pair it all with their selection of wine from Southern Coastal France, Corsica, Sicily, Croatia, and other parts of the Mediterranean.

As for the stylish space worthy of the cool kid scene? Designed by Camilla Deterre, it marries minimalist chic with bold pops of color. There's white plaster walls, plush red banquettes, and Art Deco lighting. The front bar area boasts bold graphic tiles and colorblocked seating, while the 70-seat dining room is more refined, draped with white tablecloths and a warmer atmosphere. Downstairs, a private event space and separate cocktail lounge awaits.

Despite its name, you won't come across any poker tables or slot machines, but you can definitely bet on a stylish crowd and food that tastes like hitting the jackpot. 

Click through for a look inside!

[Photos by Alex Staniloff courtesy Casino]