On Sunday, the signs above the former Table 8 on Melrose still said Table 8, all black, as non-descript as ever. Today, white awnings, visible signage and open final touches on 8 oz., Govind Armstrong's new burger bar. We weren't shy with our criticism of Table 8's last purple-goth incarnation---it just didn't fit Armstrong's seasonal menus, the market-friendly ingredients, that cool relaxed vibe we loved with the original. But this, this we already love: Reclaimed wood walls, black and white subway tiles, tin ceilings, a larger bar, black banquettes and high-top bar tables. It's a look we've seen before, sure, but it's so much better than it was. It just fits. From the menu, deviled eggs, fried olives stuffed with sausage, kobe beef corn dogs with purple mustard, salads, sliders, burgers in beef, turkey, fish and veggie form (the Estancia grass-fed burger with heirloom tomato ketchup, escarole and roasted mushrooms sounds particularly good), lots of microbrews from California. Mock service starts tonight and there's a slim chance they'll open the doors tomorrow, but the goal is to be fully open by the weekend***. The new Table 8 going into Chocolat space on Melrose near Crescent Hts Boulevard still planned for later this summer. (7661 Melrose Ave, 323.782.8258)
***UPDATE: The burger bar will open tonight, Wednesday (7/16) for limited food service (6pm-9pm) and the bar will stay open until 12am.
· Table 8 Revealed...Sort Of [~ELA~]
· Table 8 Evolution: Closing Dates, New Concepts [~ELA~]
· Govind's 8 oz. [~ELA~]
