Hello, neighbors,

I recently had the chance to visit Nisi Kitchen, our longtime local favorite, and it left me with a swirl of feelings I wanted to share. Nisi has been a staple on our island for years—a place where we’ve celebrated small victories, grabbed a quick bite during busy days, and even relied on them during the challenges of the COVID pandemic. Their long, familiar menu was a comfort, a place where a burger or chicken fried sandwich with a lemonade or shake could feel like a little bit of home.

Recently, Nisi rebranded from an American diner to a bistro, and their menu has transformed almost entirely. They’ve streamlined their offerings, focused on upscale dishes, and tried to carve out a new identity. I tried a few things myself—the watermelon salad and their burger—and I left conflicted. The burger felt bland, craving a sauce to lift it, and the salad… well, it was mostly just watermelon. It’s clear they’re trying, but it felt distant from the cozy, family-friendly vibe we’ve cherished for so long.

And yet, I understand. Running a business is hard, especially in our world where everyone is chasing luxury and big profits. Nisi’s changes are an effort to keep their doors open, to survive and thrive. That’s something we, as a community, can appreciate even if it’s hard to love right away.

This is where we come in, neighbors. We can express how we feel about the changes—we can be honest, respectful, and clear—but we must also remember to show up. Nisi has supported our community in countless ways, and it’s now our turn to support them. Our seniors, our families, our friends—they all deserve a place at the table of a local business that has been here for us through thick and thin. Change is never easy, and love for our island’s establishments sometimes means embracing that discomfort while keeping them afloat.

So let’s keep showing up, keep dining, keep sharing memories at Nisi, and gently remind them what we value: comfort, community, and the warm, familiar vibe that makes Roosevelt Island home.

With care,
Ericka O’Connell

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