Now Open: The Phoenix Brings Barnyard Chic to La Cienega

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By Lesley Balla

Turns out you can go back again. Adolfo Suaya has teamed up with Ryan Sweeney (Surly Goat) and Lonnie Moore (Dolce Group) to open a new night spot, The Phoenix. You may remember the space as La Seine, the kosher-sushi-steakhouse spot helmed by Top Chef-fer Alex Reznik. But before that it was The Lodge, which Suaya was involved in, and he and Moore were partners in the Dolce Group in the early days. Though Suaya is attached to many projects that come and go - Osaka (closed) and BoHo (original closed, now reopened at Hollywood and Highland) among others - and the Dolce reign has come to a screeching halt, this partnership is proof that in Hollywood, everything comes full circle.

The space has been opened up, with country-chic additions like reclaimed wood everything, taxidermy, white doors, metal stools and chairs, and communal tables. Chalkboard walls are very important, especially around the pool table and shuffleboard . That crazy zig-zag roof is still intact. Because beer guru Sweeney is on board, expect a good list of craft brews like Port Brewing's Mongo Double IPA, Anthem's Cherry Sider and New Belgium Blue Paddle Pilsner. There's a full bar, too, which tries to keep things simple and classic. Food is minimal, basically steak frites and salads. Happy hours (Mon.-Fri., 5-9 PM) start soon.

14 N. La Cienega Blvd.; 310-289-5925