After months of remodeling, Brenda Buenviaje is ready to unveil the expansion of her restaurant, ~BRENDA’S FRENCH SOUL FOOD~ on Polk. When? It might be tomorrow (Wednesday), or possibly this Thursday. The ex-laundromat next door was transformed into a new dining room (which brings the count from 28 seats to 38) and brand-new kitchen that is about four times larger. The menu will be expanding a bit over the next few weeks, with some new beignet flavors and new lunch items. Look for a secret recipe fried chicken (it’s time for BFC to compete with the KFC next door!), accompanied by their unparalleled cream biscuit, fries, and coleslaw. The popular shrimp and grits (a big bowl of cheddar grits topped with sautéed shrimp in a spicy tomato bacon gravy) will also be added to their permanent menu.
Since the new side is all done, guests will be served in it while they completely overhaul the “old” side, which will be complete in about a month, bringing it to 72 seats total. And as soon as the entire expansion is complete, Brenda’s should also have their beer/wine license, and will begin offering later hours and a dinner menu! A preliminary peek at the dinner menu reveals a variety of grilled or broiled oysters, Big Easy spicy wings, roasted quail, and smothered pork with beans and greens. Yup, lots of good stuff, Maynard.
And good news: they will open New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day! In keeping with Southern tradition, Brenda’s will be serving black-eyed peas and collard greens (for money and luck!).
Photo by Blair Sneddon Photography.
