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Pasadena Independent Feb 22, 2013
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redwhite+bluezz JAZZES UP PASADENA’S PLAYHOUSE DISTRICT
Like a fine wine that improves with age, so does redwhite+bluezz. Following a seven year run, redwhite+bluezz in Old Pasadena is closing its doors end of night on Sunday February 24, 2013, but the rwb experience continues to live on, courtesy of the Playhouse Restaurant Group.
redwhite+bluezz is jazzed to open, reincarnated and ready for business as usual (with some sizzling additions), under new ownership and management, at the landmark Pasadena Playhouse, the State Theater of California, and the heart of Pasadena’s arts scene. The refreshed jazz club and 80 seat restaurant, located at 37 South El Molino, in the Pasadena Playhouse building, will officially open its doors to the public on March 8, 2013.
“It is a thrilling time for live music in Pasadena and for everyone who appreciates the arts, as we open redwhite+bluezz in such a unique location as the Pasadena Playhouse,” said Art Silveri of Playhouse Restaurant Group, a new partnership that acquired the rights to the redwhite+bluezz’ unique concept, its special recipe for success and name. “The original redwhite+bluezz has been a staple in Old Pasadena for more than seven years. We are excited to not only broaden the reach of the tried and true redwhite+bluezz experience, but also to enhance it”
“It makes perfect sense to open a jazz club and fine dining establishment at the Pasadena Playhouse–and even more sense to open one as popular and successful as redwhite+bluezz. We are ecstatic that we were able to acquire the rights to do so, and appreciate the opportunity to share the phenomenon created by former owner André Vener, with an even broader clientele,” added Dave Morgan, also of Pasadena Restaurant Group. “We look forward to building mutually beneficial relationships with our neighbors including Vroman’s Bookstore, Laemmle Theatres and, of course, the Playhouse and its patrons. It’s a win win situation for everyone…especially Pasadenans.”
With an unwavering respect for redwhite+bluezz’ fine-tuned culture, Playhouse Restaurant Group is committed to keeping it alive by continuing redwhite+bluezz’ gold standard. This also means embracing the many special ingredients that contribute to the distinctive rwb experience.
Aside from newly appointed General Manager Phil Thyen, much of the redwhite+bluezz staff will remain the same.
“It is a privilege to continue redwhite+bluezz’ tradition for great food, wine, live music and service,” said Kelli Breslin. “Like me, many of redwhite+bluezz’ employees have been here for several years, including some since the beginning. We know and care for each other and our guests. It’s great that guests at the new redwhite+bluezz will be welcomed by the same friendly faces they’ve known for years.”
The new Executive Chef of redwhite+bluezz, Alfonso “Fonzy” Galan, joins the restaurant from, well, redwhite+bluezz. For the past two years, Galan has been Sous Chef at redwhite+bluezz, making him a seamless and natural choice to take the helm of the new establishment’s kitchen.
“I am extremely honored to step into this position. My knives are sharpened and I have many new ideas for the menu,” said Galan, who has already contributed many of the menu’s most popular dishes. “What an amazing opportunity to be part of another history-making venue. Music and corks aren’t the only things that are going to be popping at redwhite+bluezz!”
The fresh and cutting-edge American Bistro menu features many of redwhite+bluezz’ signature dishes such as Maryland Crab Cakes, Duo Beef Sliders, Great Plains 1188A Filet, Braised C.A.B. Short Ribs, Grilled Salmon & Chimichurri and the Spicy Western BBQ Burger (winner of “Favorite Kobe Burger” and “Favorite White Table Cloth Burger” during the recent 2013 Pasadena Cheeseburger Week competition), as well as a variety of tasty twists on classics coupled with original creations. The restaurant will continue to serve housemade desserts, as well as hometown favorite Fosselman’s ice cream and sorbet. In honor of its prime location, redwhite+bluezz will also spice things up with a nightly three course Playhouse Special tasting menu.
The 40 person bar, manned by familiar faces, features popular spirits, wine and beer, alongside a hand chosen selection of California wines, craft beers and boutique spirits.
Without missing a beat, many of the area’s most revered Jazz artists will continue performing at redwhite+bluezz. On any given night, and during Sunday brunch, customers will be treated to the talents of their favorite artists, including Brother Yusef, Tim Kobza, Steve Pandis, Gregory Lawrence, Ryan Cross and Paul Lines.
“redwhite+bluezz has set the standard for top tier live music in Pasadena,” said Lines. “It is exciting to be part of the next phase of the redwhite+bluezz legacy.”
Among its many distinctions, redwhite+bluezz enjoys a record number of awards and a host Pasadena Weekly’s Best of Pasadena honors seven years in a row including Best Restaurant, Best Music Venue and Best Wine List. redwhite+bluezz also boasts an enthusiastic and consistent four star review on Yelp.
The new venue has new hours. redwhite+bluezz will be open at 5:00pm Tuesday through Sunday evenings. Sunday brunch will be served from 10:30am to 2:30pm.
The website remains www.redwhitebluezz.com as will the phone number (626) 792-4441.
