Violetta Sets Opening Week, Changes Chefs

After several delays the long-awaited opening of Violetta has finally been set for the third week of June. Says owner/general manager Dwayne Beliakoff: "After a number of construction setbacks which had pushed an anticipated December 2009 grand opening out nearly half of this year—the finishing touches to the 1,000-square-foot quick-service cafe are being completed within the next week."

Beliakoff's statement indicates there also has been some last minute changes in the kitchen: "Violetta's executive chef is Angela Favre, and replaces the originally positioned Jeremy Niehuss (who will continue working through the summer in the Distant Sun Catering kitchen with menu planning and the grand opening)." The New York French Culinary Institute-trained Favre was most recently at Caffe Mingo where she has been chef for seven years. With Favre comes a "Chef's Market Menu" heavy on items from the nearby Portland Farmer's Market including Watermelon & Bay Shrimp Salad Rolls and Kim Chee Franks with Sesame-Aioli. Etta's, a food cart which was originally intended to supplement Violetta's quick service cafe on Director Park by offering a "skinny" version of its locally inspired menu, will remain in operation throughout the summer and fall at a number of public and private events. Finally, Violetta is (hopefully) here.
· All Previous Violetta Coverage [Eater PDX]
· Violetta [Official Site]