Groundbreaking to create new venue at former Gasho property in Hawthorne

Work has started to turn a former restaurant on Saw Mill River Road in Hawthorne into an event and hospitality center. Michael Pasqualini, who has a successful track record in the restaurant, club and entertainment business, has purchased the property where the Japanese restaurant Gasho of Japan had operated until about a half-dozen years ago. He intends to turn the 2.8-acre property and the former restaurant building into a center for events known as Le Setai.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Pasqualini said, “It is our goal to transform this local, iconic property into the Tri-state’s top wedding and special events destination. Whether an intimate cocktail reception, corporate event, or the wedding of your dreams, our stellar reputation for cuisine and service will make Le Setai an ideal location life has to offer.”

It’s expected that the new facility will be ready to open in the fall of next year. Its 13,000 square feet of interior space will have a grand ballroom featuring a skylight over the dance floor, floor-t- ceiling windows and French double doors. A pond that had been stocked with Koi fish when Gasho was in business will restored. The outdoor space will feature waterfalls, gardens and a glass walking bridge along with a Tiki Bar. Part of a 16th-century Samurai farmhouse that had been a feature of the Gasho restaurant will receive a facelift. Gasho had been struck by a fire in the early 1990s.

Plans call for the venue to be able to seat 255 guests with parking for 100 cars. It’s expected that Le Setai will create more than 50 permanent jobs.

Pasqualini restored and currently operates The Mansion on Broadway, an event facility at 139 N. Broadway in White Plains. The mansion, which dates from 1899, at one time was owned by the Knight of Columbus, which operated it as a meeting, cantering and events venue.