If you keep your head down while walking down Mulberry Street in the boutique-laden depths of NoLita this week, you might miss it.
But for those planning on going to the Austria Pop-Up Store (running through October 19th at the Openhouse Gallery, between Spring and Kenmare), an entire mini-world awaits inside. A convincing replica of the famed Cafe Sacher (where you can enjoy coffee and cakes flown in daily from Vienna), an oversize print of Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss" (in front of which visitors are inspired to imitate the painting's subjects), and a smattering of Austrian crystal and ceramic works set the scene for an enjoyable break from shopping.
Put on by the Austrian Tourist Office in coordination with Openhouse, the Pop Up is meant to inspire New Yorkers (tourists and locals alike) to trip it to see the originals. As Teresa Faudon with the office told The Huffington Post, the intent is to get Americans to want to "sip a cup of coffee at the real Cafe Sacher, wander in the footsteps of Gustav Klimt in Vienna, and be among the first to see the newly opened Chamber of Wonders at the Kunsthistorisches Museum next December."
Visitors will also be treated to samplings of local vinegars, cheeses and desserts. There are replicas of paintings by Diego Velazquez, Mazzola and more. The space has played host to a Mozart recital, a Sissi marathon and readings.
Admission to the gallery is free, but tickets are available for purchase for a closing event on the 19th called "A Taste of Austria."