Hi - Last weekend the "SHI" Restaurant (I sure hope that name has some significance, I've lived in China and South Asia and it means nothing to me) hosted a private party, and I was told they will have their soft opening this weekend (Aug 15).  They also have a dedicated take away entrance/area - so I am ready! 

It is about time, the retail development around here is measured in years, meanwhile the Chinese build an Olympic Stadium in the time it takes to fit out a Duane Reade store.

Hi conftrans - "shi" has many meanings in both China and Japan.  In China:  Chinese guardian lions, Chinese term for poetry, a chess piece in Chinese chess, a family name in pre-history China.  One of its meanings in Japanese is the literal translation of "death" (let's hope that's not its meaning for the restaurant) 

The door was open on Sat morning and I was able to look inside and it looked really nice (they were still working on it, but from what I saw looked very promising!!).  The view was incredible.  I am really looking forward to this place opening.  In my quick look around, I did notice an area in the wall about 10 feet up that looked like a DJ booth.  Anyone have any info on that?  Made me think that on weekends they maybe would do dinner then move the chairs around to allow for some dancing, but not sure.  Either way, it looked pretty good.

I see rivu412 responded to what 'shi' means, but wondering why conftrans was concerned about the meaning having significance - It could have well been a nickname of the owner - not sure why that would matter..?  Just curious...

Doormans at 4720 said Shi would open next week. Fingers crossed for a good start.

Shi should be open in a week or possibly 2 depending on the city of new york inspection. I agree with Metfan101 the place is awesome and the view is grand. " Shi " is the name of the owner a great guy who want's to get this place open as soon as possible and I can't wait.