Introducing jamison, Now Anchoring Jamison Square

Grid View

[Avila, 6/30/12]

The marble-polished Fenouil is officially no more. New American restaurant jamison — the second restaurant from Davis Street Tavern owners Christopher Handford and Blake Smith — is set to debut in the iconic Pearl District spot alongside Jamison Square, incorporating an "industrial country" feel to give the sprawling space (with 23-foot ceilings) a more casual feel. As Handford told Eater earlier this year, the new design incorporates nearly 6,000 pounds of barn wood salvaged from Beavercreek, Oregon, with the grey walls offset by light wood tables, metal details, and greenery meant to mimic the look of Jamison Square. The bar space (along NW 11th) functions as the restaurant's new entrance, featuring an attention-grabbing communal bar table (designed by the Montana-based Vinoture) and direct line to the main dining room and open kitchen, featuring 10 seats at a chef's counter.

A recent preview menu reveals some details about what to expect from chef Gavin Ledson's neighborhood-influenced offerings. The list is divided into categories like Salads (with six options available, like a strawberry and cucumber salad with butter leaf and marscapone), Flatbreads, "Handheld" (featuring sandwiches, including a burger and a vegetarian-friendly artichoke, burrata, kale, and Meyer lemon option), Plates (with salmon and pork), and a six-item Vegetable section meant to function as "sides" — fried squash blossoms, roasted broccoli raab with pancetta, and grilled artichokes. According to Handford, the concept, modeled after the LA restaurant Gjelina, encourages diners to share dishes without relying on the "small plate" model.

jamison officially opens its doors for dinner tomorrow (Tuesday, July 3) at 5p.m., and will start with dinner-only service throughout the week. The following week, expect the spot to open for lunch; weekend brunch is scheduled to debut by the end of July. Once jamison functions all-systems-running, hours of operation: will be Tuesday-Sunday.
· All Previous jamison Coverage [Eater PDX]