This is no small undertaking. Celebrity chef Brian Malarkey's new restaurant in the Gaslamp brings something different to the SD scene. In conjunction with Stingaree owner James Brennan, they have transformed the large 7,000sf former Z Gallerie space into an eclectic restaurant. Furnished with a mix of old and new furniture, mismatched chairs and unfinished wood tables and luxurious sofas. There are no distinct divisions to the space, giving it an open casual feel. But the use of different furniture defines areas: a traditional dining area, a lounge and a large horseshoe bar that can seat 60! The lighting is a mix of artsy bare bulbs and rustic wagon-wheel-style chandeliers. Hope this ambitious project can stay the course. Let's give it an Orchid while we can!

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