Last week we broke the news about the new chef at the about-to-reopen ~OUTERLANDS~, Greg Kuzia-Carmel. Now we have a few details to release about the expanded space and what to expect. Owners Lana Porcello and Dave Muller moved into the former restaurant space next door (Wo’s Chinese), and now have 20 more seats, plus large party seating is now available (there’s an eight-person table that can also be joined with a smaller three-person table in the new room). What’s impressive is, they designed it themselves! And don’t forget they have that parklet out front too.
In the new area, the full bar will be taking on a much stronger presence, with 10 bar seats, and there are a few high bistro tables across from the bar that are the same height—an ideal spot to have a meal, not just cocktails. Speaking of bevvies, Chris O’Brien is the new bar manager, and Kevin Dowell, the bar manager at Foreign Cinema, is consulting for Outerlands. Dowell actually lives just down the street.
The existing dining area got some upgrades (including double-paned windows and insulation, so it’ll be a lot cozier). You’ll notice a modern-looking white wave above the kitchen, an architectural feature that extends into the new area and lightens up the space. Since there’s a lot more room for prep, Outerlands will be able to now have brunch on Saturday and Sunday. There will also be an abridged breakfast service during the week (Mon-Fri 8am-10am) with some savory items (think eggy, bready, and vegetables too)—pastry chef Brooke Mosley will be very involved in the development of it.
So, the big question: when are they opening? They are really hoping to open this Saturday for brunch (9am-3pm), but since construction often has last-minute surprises, check the website or call before heading over. UPDATE: THEY WILL NOT BE OPENING UNTIL TUE MAY 13TH. After running weekend brunch, they plan to open for lunch next week (10am-3pm). The breakfast service will launch soon after, along with evening hours for dinner and bar bites (evenings will initially be walk-in only, with reservations coming later). Also look for a few pop-up bar nights as they get the bar portion ready to launch.
I’ll keep you posted on their new mealtimes as they add them, menus, and will be sharing some images of the completed space too.
A sneak peek of the new kitchen (and the eye-catching architectural feature along the ceiling). Photo: Dave Muller.
