Vasili’s

Product Description

Inspired by Papou Vasili’s life and legacy, this welcoming environment in downtown Naperville pays homage to delicious family recipes cooked over a blazing hearth that is not only the room’s center piece but its center of action.  Emphasized by an open kitchen format, our design focus with Vasili’s was to convey the warmth of family gatherings, where the cook’s performance in the kitchen was the main show.  Surrounded by loved ones and friends around a big table, the passion for food here likewise takes front seat, as the space was intentionally laid out so that there is no bad sightline in the house. Vasili’s is meant to inspire engagement; thus comfort and authenticity were our driving forces.  Throughout the restaurant we stressed the basics – incorporating natural and real elements which gives way to an elegantly understated and relaxed dining environment like in the Mediterranean.  Wood, stone, and plaster set the tone along with worn, real wood floors lightened by years of baking in the Aegean sun.  A wall dedicated to showcasing the wood used to cook the open hearth meals grabs the guest’s attention while Gabion fixtures glow with rocks imported from Santorini.  Abalone panels create depth and bring a sense of the sea to the host stand.  An open pantry with spices, fruits, vegetables and an overhead pergola of dried goods and oils give an open market feel.  Earthly plaster finish coats most of the walls, which are lined with artwork by none other than Papou Vasili himself.  Hand thrown pottery pendants compliment the fully mosaic’d bar.  At the center of the dining room is Voula, a glowing metal and fabric squid, who’s presence draws the guest in.  Tonally the space creates a sophisticated yet laid-back environment.  The result is the perfect backdrop to eat at as strangers and leave as cousins.