Architect Kushner's food for thought.

The latest Village hotspot, EN Japanese Brasserie, is a brand-new Japanese restaurant that recently opened to much fanfare as its architect, Adam Kushner of Kushner Studios, threw a showcase party for workers, friends and the media.

Guests dined on authentic Japanese dishes, while Kushner gave tours of the unique establishment.

EN's design demonstrates the balancing act of pitting traditional Japanese woodwork against a modernist display armature, all within a soaring corner space.

Exquisite, finely detailed antique wood interior paneling from Japan is both contrasted and enhanced by the more modernist mien of frosted glass and blackened steel.

The pleasure that Kushner received in designing the project was matched by the satisfaction he received in also being the general contractorr on the project, through his construction arm: In House Construction Services, Inc.

The bar and lounge at EN makes up approximately one-third of the restaurant's space. What used to be relegated to a tiny corner of a restaurant has taken on a life of its own, catering to today's younger and more chic audience.

EN also features several private dining rooms, where guests are invited to take off their shoes. Some of the dining rooms are intended to recreate the feeling of being in a traditional Japanese library and study.