Editor’s Note: This post was updated at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 29 and again at 2 p.m. Feb. 4.
Prepare for pan-Asian fare according to the sign on the storefront at 3701 Jefferson Ave., where Hungry Buddha is set to open at the end February. “We’re going to be a fast-casual restaurant with a solid bar program,” said Keyan Still, who is consulting for the restaurant’s ownership. “All the food is going to be fresh, very culinary but fast-casual.”
Still, who is currently a bartender at Planter’s House and Robust, has previously managed Hendrick’s BBQ and worked as beverage director at Sanctuaria. The former Jefferson Bistro space will include an indoor dining area, an outdoor patio and upstairs lounge, each of which will seat 60 patrons. The restaurant also plans to offer delivery service.
Still said he is still choosing kitchen and front-of-house staff, as well as finalizing the menu. Items may include spring rolls, yakatori, bahn mi, steam buns, fried chicken wings, noodle bowls and desserts.
According to former owner Blake Brokaw, the upcoming Hungry Buddha is not affiliated with Brokaw’s former restaurant of the same name, which shuttered in 2003.
This article appears in January 2015.