Jason Travi Still Working with Jeffrey Best, Introduces New Menu at Mesa in Costa Mesa

Jason Travi, chef and partner in Fraiche and Riva (which turned into Fraiche Santa Monica) has finally landed in a new home: Mesa, a modern gastropub located within Costa Mesa shopping center, The Camp. Just to recap, when that whole Riva turning into Fraiche debacle went down, restaurant management initially denied that Travi has departed, but shortly thereafter confirmed the news. Travi left town with his wife, last fall/winter, revealing plans to open his own restaurant when he returned. Several months passed and no word from team Travi, then in March Feast reported that Travi had accepted a position as corporate chef for Jeffrey Best, proprietor of Firefly in Studio City, Mesa in Costa Mesa and Darkroom on Melrose. So, into the inbox today came confirmation that Travi is the new executive chef at Mesa where he has added several new dishes to the restaurant's existing menu. And, to pimp his eats, Mesa will offer complimentary small bites Tuesday-Saturday from 6PM until sunset. Come on down.

Salt Cod Fritters over a Romesco Sauce ($9); Wood-Fired Roasted Shrimp, cooked in a wood-burning oven and served with Kale and Chickpeas ($10); and Port Brewing “Old Viscosity” Stout-Braised Short Ribs, with Potato Purée, Caramelized Onions, and Baby Carrots ($19). Desserts include the “Creamsicle” Panna Cotta, a Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta served with shaved Citrus Ice and Mint ($8) and a Walnut Brownie, served with Burnt Marshmallow, Caramel Sauce, and Banana Sorbet ($8).
·All Jason Travi Coverage [~ELA~]