Owner Brooks Broadhurst says it’s coming down to the wire now.
In a few weeks, likely sometime in the second week of August, his Block 292 [1] restaurant and fresh market, 292 Beverly Road, will be open. On a quick tour, we spied lots of beautiful tile: red under the bar, white on the walls, and 3/4-inch thick butcher block wood on the floor of the market. LED lighting gave the room a soft glow as four brass beer taps sat ready next to four brass wine taps. Copper mugs waited on shelving in anticipation of holding a Moscow mule soon.
In the private dining area, new hires were chatting, getting to know each other. That part of the restaurant will seat 14 to 16 people if it’s in use. If not, the door will remain open for regular diners.
And door is a key word: the entire space is buttressed by glass garage doors that will be flung open on beautiful days. Seating for 80, including comfy booths, awaits. A staff of 40 to 45 people will attend to guest needs.
The kitchen gleams, stainless steel All-Clad saute pans, peaking out from under shelving and a huge smoker gearing up to sear brisket, ribs, chops and even fish.
Out front, the five parking spaces have been lined (four regular, one handicapped) and flower planters stand ready to flank the building facade and set off the outdoor dining patio.
In the market, cases line the perimeter for meats, prepared food and other delicacies; for those who can’t wait until they get home to dig in, a drink rail and bar stools will allow them to have a seat and nosh right away.
Waiting for a table? You can plug in your USB device to the outlet under the bar to charge. The restaurant will not take reservations. Instead, they will be using an app that uses GPS to detect how far away the user is from the restaurant. Those close will have their name put in to wait for a table. Neighbors first, for this place.
Read more in-depth coverage of Broadhurst’s plans [2].