Behind the Design: Karen Akunowicz' Bar Volpe and Fox & the Knife

The highly-anticipated opening of Karen Akunowicz' second Boston restaurant, Bar Volpe, is finally here! The space includes a restaurant, bar, dining lounge, back bar, and pastificio (pasta shop), all inspired by Karen's travels through Southern Italy. Venetian plaster, antique mirrors, and a warm white color palette compliment the cuisine, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere. To read more, click here.

Photo by Alyssa Blumstein

This is not our first time designing restaurants for Karen. RODE was behind the design of her first eatery, Fox & the Knife. In contrast to Bar Volpe, RODE fused the sensibilities of an enoteca (Italian wine bar) with the punk-femme culture of its chef and all-female management through bold colors, rich textures, and intimate lighting. Since opening in 2018, Fox & the Knife has quickly become a gastronomical touchstone in hip South Boston, described as warm, welcoming, cozy, and delicious by both local articles and online reviews.

Photo courtesy of Xhulio Cooks

We are thrilled to watch Bar Volpe join its Northern Italian-inspired counterpart, Fox & the Knife, as one of South Boston's favorite restaurants. Congratulations, Karen!