Following the success of his Huset New York pop-up, Chef Maycoll Calderón has put down roots at The Standard, East Village with a concept that blends Mexican culinary traditions, local ingredients, and the energy of downtown New York. Venezuela-born and Mexico City–based, he trained in Spain’s Michelin-starred kitchens, refined his craft in New York under Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and went on to create Mexico City favorites like Huset and Hanky Panky. Now, his story-forward cooking and soulful hospitality take center stage in the East Village—bringing the spirit of Mérida, México to every dish (and cocktail).
For opening night, Cuna took over both the restaurant and the Cuna Bar & Lounge, transforming the space into a lively celebration that captured everything the concept stands for: flavor, connection, and creativity. Live jazz with a Latin twist set the tone as guests made their way through instant favorites like wagyu tacos with crispy Chihuahua cheese, avocado, radish, and ginger salsa; corn cake topped with cajeta, caramel popcorn, and peanuts; and a trio of popsicle margaritas—the Negrete (reposado and blanco tequila, citrus, pink limeade paleta), Goodbye, Goodbye (mezcal, ancho verde, citrus, mango chile paleta), and Barbara (reposado tequila, orange liqueur, passionfruit paleta). The smoky mezcal horchata dusted with cocoa powder was the perfect finishing touch.
Chef Calderón spent the evening weaving between kitchen and crowd, raising a glass with guests alongside his wife and two-year-old daughter, and connecting with friends and fellow chefs like Yara Herrera of Hellbender. The result? A night that felt as intimate as it was vibrant—a true celebration of food, family, and beginnings.
Take a look at photos from the night below, and see what the buzz is all about.
