The fusion of the setting was the work of co-owner Mariano Airaldi and Daniela Leonardi, who applied their experience in environmental and lighting to the interior design of the unique space.

Their concept is a fusion of organic materials with hi-tech luminous effects. Natural elements – wood, water, metal, air, fire, plants and stones – are represented throughout the bi-level space, highlighted by innovative LED lighting. LED (light emitting diodes) are microlights with tiny bulbs (3-5mm) that work at very low voltage.

Everywhere in the space that LEDs have been embedded, they accentuate architectural details and transform common surfaces into "light/life radiating" objects that substitute for traditional overhead lights.

The space has its own kinetic energy, derived from the calming movement of water, the shimmering of the lights, the textures of stonewalls reflecting blue and red light off of recycled chunks of glass, and fog-diffusing lamps above a rocky floor.

Visitors are greeted by a large undulating bar, curved to resemble a flowing river, and filled with constant stream of recycled water that moves through a concealed water tank. In the dining room, wood tables engraved with the image of a red gingerroot, pay homage to the restaurant's name.

Downstairs, there are several distinct areas: a private Japanese-style tatami mat dining room, a banquet room with communal tables for large parties, and a ceviche/raw bar, all of which can be customized for private parties and events.

Kión is located at 509 E. 6th Street between Avenues A and B (212-529-5200) and is open seven days a week, Sunday-Wednesday from 6 PM-2AM, Thursday-Saturday until 4AM.