(Community Matters) Cameron Lockley and I toured El Arbol restaurant today. They’re going for “a mid-century classic Argentinean restaurant, both in atmosphere and gastronomic offerings.” It’s that cool, white contemporary building on the southwest corner of 35th St. and Glenview – across the intersection from Burger King and diagonally across from Jefferson Square – which has been under renovation for 2 years.
GM Victor Farnsworth (formerly from the Four Seasons Hotel) guided us through the 3 story and large patioed property – recently, extensively renovated – design by Joel Mozersky (The Belmont, Uchi, La Condessa and Antonelli Cheese Shop).
Also chatted with Chef Chad Dolezal. Chef comes back to Texas via Portland and has landed at El Arbol after a stint at Bess Bistro’ (which we’re not holding against him). We talked briefly about the availability of seasonal, local food product – he’s developing his sources. We’re not the Pacific northwest but making progress. They’ve built a gargantuan 6-station grill. Excited about their beef and about their seafood, of course, obtaining the latter from Roberto San Miguel.
I can’t wait to dine on the second floor, 4 to 6 of us in one of the booths. I’m ordering a Coco Pisco cocktail and the citrus cured seasonal white fish w/ spicy Peruvian peppers as starters. Then, even though I’m not a big beef eater, I’ve gotta try the Eye of Ribeye – hopefully with someone who’ll split the 14oz steak. I understand house sommelier, Crockett Moore (who I don’t know) is building an impressive list of Malbecs, so gotta let him introduce us to their best. ok, maybe an Alfajores for dessert with a glass of port.
The outdoor dining should be perfect this spring. Victor said the staff is finalizing their brunch menu now, so they should be launching in the next couple of weeks.
Community Matters 