Inside Playa, Prepping For Debut Within Former Grace Space

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Officially set to open its doors on February 11 is Playa, Chef John Rivera Sedlar's (Rivera) newest Latin-inspired concept. With mixologist Julian Cox (Rivera) behind the bar and Sedlar's team in the kitchen, this is one of the most anticipated openings of early 2011. Let's recap, shall we? Over eight months ago, word came that Neal Fraser was set to expand Grace, his critically acclaimed fine dining concept, into a former Cathedral downtown. Even before Grace officially shut its doors, Sedlar's camp announced plans to open another Rivera near West Hollywood. A bit of plaster and paint, and six months later Grace is reborn as Playa.

Sources say Sedler is bringing the Rivera style of Latin and Spanish inflected cuisine Westward with Playa. Cox is currently training bartenders on old favorites and new concoctions, and the management team is in place, hiring and training all this week in between the usual friends and family style pre-opening dinners. Stay tuned for menu details and more photos of the shiny new space. Meanwhile, Playa's Facebook page has some teaser shots right over here. The resy line, should you want to save it now, is 323-933-5300 but it doesn't go live until later in the week.
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— Daniela Galarza