Today The New York Times reports that Momofuku Noodle Bar will open next week in its new space at 171 First Avenue (the old space will become Momofuku Ko soon after). The larger venue was designed by Swee Phuah and Hiromi Tsuruta of Design & Construction Resources – whose multiple high-profile projects seem to be giving that other hot design firm, AvroKO, a run for its money. All sleek blond wood, its only adornment will be the original's "tattered poster of John McEnroe." Reports The Times's Oliver Schwaner-Albright:

It’s the only piece of decoration in an otherwise sleek room and, according to Mr. Phuah, Mr. Chang said that it was the most important thing in the restaurant after the kitchen, without further explanation.

“He said it was the Picasso for this place,” Mr. Tsuruta said.

“So we made a niche,” added Mr. Phuah with a laugh.

Sure enough, they gave the poster its own alcove, as if it were a religious icon.

Hey, at least they didn't decide to put up a pair of deer antlers.