Traditional Greek fare isn’t hard to come by in New York. But to dine against a backdrop that channels the nation’s serene island coasts is a rare treat, especially in the bustling Flatiron District of Manhattan. Designed by Cass Calder Smith Architecture (CCS), Kyma Flatiron is an upscale and inviting concept born in Long Island with an atmosphere reminiscent of a warm family gathering in Santorini, of course.

“On the one hand, we wanted the space to be transformative as well as a refreshingly calm experience in direct contrast with the fast pace of the Flatiron District just outside,” firm founder Cass Calder Smith explains, “but at the same time, we wanted this location to feel like the decidedly urban update to the original Kyma location on Long Island.”

Although nearly all surfaces required additional finishing and upgrades, the original space, which totals 3,100 square feet, yielded some unexpected fruits. Original chairs were painted and reupholstered to accent custom tables atop original terrazzo floors—a perfect complement to the aesthetic conceived by CCS. Tables and seating each received a custom, super high-gloss white finish that offers an appealing contrast to the wood elements overhead. Coated in thin white staining, cedar planks adorn the ceiling to infuse warmth across the previously raw interior. Says Calder: “The ceiling turned out just how we envisioned, and we achieved our goal of warming up the space and relating the two separate rooms.”