Classic retro feel gives way to modern American cuisine.
First off, this is not a restaurant review. This is more of a coming attraction. You remember those from the movies theater. They were the precursor to the over produced trailers that you see now. This coming attraction carries with it the same classic and simple feel reminiscent of the 50s. Think Mad Men cool. Dont believe me? Heres the inspiration.
Thats what Im talking about.
On Wednesday, April 3rd, Louies Modern will open their doors to the public. Louie’s addition is helping to quickly solidify the west end of Main Street as one of our premier dining destinations. Designing the restaurant space itself must have been a labor of love for the Seidensticker family. To transform the bottom of a downtown parking garage into something this swanky and chic takes some real vision. Or, in this case maybe the ability to look back in time. FYI Thats Steve’s Dad, Louie in the photo above (Im not sure who the couple in back are).
I was lucky enough to snag an invite to a little test drive on Monday night. Heres a small sample of some of inspired modern American dishes that populate this mouthwatering menu.
Scrapple Scotch Quail Eggs (I could have eaten a dozen of these bite sized beauties)
Sweet Onion-Scottish Salmon Hushpuppies (An inventive take on a classic side)
Spicy Tuna Roll (What sushi? Yes sushi and delicious)
Boneless Beef Short Rib Bourguignon (One word, WOW!)
Oh, I wanted the Wood Oven Manchego Mac N Cheese with a Goldfish Cracker crust. But, I figured I would have to save a few tasty surprises for next time. I really wanted it though!
The dining room sports the very popular open kitchen design. There is lots of room to maneuver in the room. So many restaurants will try and cram three too many tables in that space. Not this time. You dont feel like youre eating with the table next to you. Who needs stock tips from some guy you dont know anyway?
Do they have wine you ask?
Youre joking, right? Of course, they have wine. A great selection, as you would expect. Hand made cocktails were a signature of the era represented here and Louies bar delivers. Lavendula Collins anyone? I love a good beer selection. This one runs the gamut from Duvel Belgian to Bells Oberon all the way to a two buck PBR!
Since this isnt a restaurant review, Ill stop right there. Because if I go on it will turn into one rather quickly. But as a public service, I should mention that they will open for dinner starting Wednesday April 3rd at 4:30pm daily. Lunches will begin on Monday April 8th. At some point in the future they will be serving a Sunday Brunch. And, as a big bonus they have an outdoor Barista Bar that serves coffee and light bites starting at 7am! That also opens on Monday April 8th. WOW! They sure have a lot going on down there.
Oh, one more thing you should know before you arrive. The dress is a touch more casual today than it was in Louies day. Tuxedo NOT required.
If you want to check out the rest of the menu, of course weve got it. CLICK HERE.
1289 North Palm Avenue
Sarasota, Florida 34236
941-552-9688
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