Ken Biberaj (Photo: Facebook)

Ken Biberaj, who works as Vice President at the Russian Tea Room restaurant in Manhattan, looks like he might be throwing his hat in the ring to succeed term-limited Councilwoman Gale Brewer. This afternoon, he registered a committee for the seat, allowing him to fundraise and campaign for the City Council position in 2013.

Mr. Biberaj came to his executive position at the iconic restaurant through his family's real estate business. The Russian Tea Room has often been featured in pop culture, making appearances in shows ranging from When Harry Met Sally to Gossip Girl.

In addition to his business background, Mr. Biberaj has also worked for political campaigns in the past. He was, among other things, the Florida Research Director for the Kerry-Edwards for President Campaign in 2004.

Mr. Biberaj will face a crowded field in the Democratic primary. Candidates already running include District Leader Marc Landis, Helen Rosenthal, the former Chair of Community Board 7, and Mel Wymore, the former Chair on CB7.

Update: Mr. Biberaj passes along a statement confirming his intentions to run for the City Council:

"As an Upper West Sider and a member of a small family-owned business, I am running for the 6th Council District because we need someone with outside experience who understands our community and how small businesses work. The West Side is one of the best places in America to live and raise a family, and I pledge to fight for the qualities that make this neighborhood so great.”