The iconic UC Berkeley hangout, HENRY’S, located in the former Hotel Durant (recently renovated into the Graduate Berkeley) is getting quite the new culinary team and concept. Chris Kronner (of KronnerBurger fame) is getting some support from Tartine Bakery (Kronner used to be a chef at Bar Tartine) and is also bringing on Jeffrey Hayden (most recently the chef of Del Popolo), Justin Huffman (chef of KronnerBurger), general manager Howie Correa (who is back in California from Gloucester’s Short & Main!), Julian Cox (currently Tartine’s director of bar operations), and Nicole Rossi, former general manager of KronnerBurger. Considering KronnerBurger remains closed from a recent fire, the team has certainly had time to focus on this new project.
It’s going to be an approachable, contemporary, California tavern—whether you want to meet up for oysters and bar snacks, or of course, one of Kronner’s epic cheeseburgers. The menu will feature top NorCal seasonal ingredients, quality and sustainable purveyors, many vegetarian and vegan preparations, and yes, baked goods from Tartine. There will be plenty of wines (including many that are naturally made), local beers, and cocktails will be rooted in classics while made with new cocktail techniques. Bartender’s Choice will be in effect as well.
The space is getting another update by Ashley Hildreth and Luke Foss and will be sporting a clean and warm look with shades of green and charcoal, touches of brass, candlelight, and a redwood bar. The 1920s building has some great details already, which will meld with some modern touches—the airy and light-filled blue Durant dining room will be inviting for dinner and brunch. There’s also a lobby where guests can enjoy a coffee or cocktail. Look for an opening in mid-April (currently set for Thursday April 12th). 2600 Durant Ave. at Bowditch, Berkeley, 510-845-8981.
Some quick bites:
MICHEL BISTRO is closing on April 14th and will transition into BARDO LOUNGE & SUPPER CLUB from owners Seth and Jenni Bregman, who are teaming up with chefs Anthony Salguero and Brian Starkey (Plumed Horse, Sons and Daughters, Commonwealth SF, and Michel). They will be creating a space that is evocative of a 1960s-era dinner party, with a living room-inspired cocktail lounge and upstairs dining room. Lounge menu items like shrimp cocktail, meatloaf sliders, and deviled eggs will be refined, and vintage cocktails served in vintage glassware with old-school hospitality will also be on the menu. Stand by for updates.
A location of SF’s THE BIRD will be coming to the former The Melt on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley. Folks should be excited they will get access to The Bird’s brilliant fried chicken sandwich and breakfast sandwiches. Look for an opening this spring. 2400 Telegraph Ave. at Channing, Berkeley. [Via Nosh.]
Another note from Nosh: vegan deli THE BUTCHER’S SON is moving across the street into the larger Maker’s Common space, which was vacated last month. Look for more seating and an expanded market/retail offering, with grab-and-go items and more. Look for the switch to happen this month. 1954 University Ave. at Milvia, Berkeley.
It’s not very often we get access to Dominican food here in the Bay Area, but on Sunday April 8th, ALAMAR OAKLAND is hosting a special pop-up dinner with guest chef Luigi Pujols. $80 (five courses and includes a cocktail). 100 Grand Ave. at Webster, Oakland.
Coming to Henry’s: dry-aged dairy beef cheeseburger on a Tartine sweet potato bun. Photo: Henry’s at Graduate Berkeley.
