Layers of news. First, as reported in February, the looming building that has been under construction across from the Meyerson Symphony Center will soon open as Hall Arts Hotel, the first (chic and very boutique) Arts District hotel. If you knew this already, good. You qualify as informed.
Second, as reported last month, said luxury hotel, which will feature two restaurants, has announced the name of the first (Ellie’s, after Hall Group founder Craig Hall’s mother), the chef (Eric Dreyer, a.k.a. “Oprah’s chef”), and the style (Napa-inspired, a term that has become the catch-all for light, seasonal, and locally focused).
Now, it looks as though the Arts District is banding together to throw itself a welcome/house-warming party. A food-centric event on September 12, Taste of Hall, will include “two sneak peek dishes from Executive Chef Eric Dreyer of Ellie’s” along with cocktails, wine tastings, and all the bells and whistles.
The sister restaurants joining in are Stephan Pyles’ Flora Street Cafe, Miriam Latin Cocina from across the Park, sleek and trendy Japanese restaurant Musume, the new Irish-ish Playwright Pub, and the casual, counter-order The Artisan.
If you have been wondering whether the Arts District would at some point band together as a first step towards labeling, distinguishing, and sub-categorizing itself, consider this somewhat of an answer.
When: Thursday, September 12 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Where: The Artisan | HALL Arts Terrace (complimentary valet parking at 2330 Flora Street)
Cost: $75 per ticket (all proceeds will be donated to AWARE, an organization that raises awareness and provides support for those with Alzheimer’s disease)