Fall Tracking: Smith Brothers' Spitfire Saloon, More

Initial Projection: Summer 2008
Current Projection: November/December

Although some consider Pasadena's Arroyo Chophouse, Parkway Grill and Smitty's mediocre by Los Angeles standards, Bob and Gregg Smith have had much success with the three restaurants---all are always packed. So the news that they took over the former Delacey's Club 41 is met with mixed feelings: More mediocrity for Old Town, but anything has to be better than what's around there (Buca di Beppo, Twin Palms, the unshockingly empty Dena House). If there's on thing the Smith boys know how to do, it's bring in the Pasadena crowds. From the looks of things---new signage, finishing touches inside---a late fall/early winter debut is imminent. Over on Lake Avenue, a reader recently overheard Crocodile Cafe employees wagering over when the restaurant would close to become that brasserie concept (now named 140 South). "Apparently notice was received from the 'powers that be' (as the employee put it) that the restaurant would be closing between December and January. Some were guessing as early as November." This is good news for so many reasons, mostly that the Crocodile cafe opened in 1987 and still tastes like it. End of year shutter, early 2009 opening?
· Pasadena Plywood Report: New Smith Bros, More [~ELA~]
· EaterWire: New Pasadena Brasserie? [~ELA~]
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