Pecking House, a dynamic culinary concept born during the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a sensation in New York City, blending Nashville hot chicken with bold Sichuan flavors. Chef Eric Huang, previously a sous chef at Eleven Madison Park, transformed his family’s shuttered Chinese restaurant into a takeout and delivery hotspot, drawing a massive following. In September 2022, Pecking House opened its first permanent location in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn.
With the success of its Brooklyn flagship, Pecking House opened a second, more intimate location in Manhattan’s Chinatown, offering a cozy setting that enhances the dining experience.
The restaurant’s design artfully combines elements of a Southern fried chicken joint with the charm of a traditional Chinese takeout shop, reflecting its unique culinary fusion. The interior features vibrant accents, including a cheery chicken head logo and an Art Deco typeface, setting the tone for a welcoming and stylish atmosphere. The design highlights warmth and approachability, balancing playfulness with sophistication. Every element of the design, from custom millwork to the curated color palette, is thoughtfully crafted to mirror the bold, flavorful cuisine and provide a harmonious setting for diners.
The restaurant underwent several design phases, initially envisioned as a cyberpunk-inspired space with neon lights, a dark atmosphere, and a vibrant, edgy vibe. Ultimately, the vision shifted to a different direction, embracing a design that better reflects the restaurant’s identity and pays homage to the local Chinatown setting with warmth and sophistication. Drawing inspiration from the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage, the space integrates local architectural elements while maintaining the restaurant’s signature aesthetic. By incorporating textures, colors, and details that reflect the spirit of Chinatown, the design creates a unique connection to the area, blending seamlessly with the restaurant’s bold culinary identity.
WAKE oversaw every phase of the design, from concept to completion, including construction supervision and project management, ensuring a cohesive vision throughout.
News/Publications/Awards:
Grub Street
Eater New York
Bklyner
The New Yorker
Edible Manhattan
The Infatuation
