1) Beverly Hills: The extensive remodel has come to a close and the new Caffe Roma 2.0 has officially launched. Now there's al fresco dining, an espresso bar, and a private dining room, in addition to a new bar/lounge area where DJs will spin on weekends. Maybe or maybe not the place to watch the game, but the bar does have a 42-inch flatscreen tv in addition to a new separate entrance from the street. As for food no change to the chef, owner Agostino Sciandri is still heading the kitchen with his Italian offerings. 350 North Canon Drive beverly hills; 310-274-7834; website [EaterWire]
2) Pasadena: Cham Korean Bistro debuted yesterday, taking over the former Seoul Bros. space, showcasing cookery skills from a former AOC chef. The smallish space offers affordable "healthful Korean" fare in a very casual cafe space with many communal tables. Cham held a grand tasting about a month prior to yesterday's official launch, and a handful of food bloggers share some initial thoughts. Gastronomy calls the eatery a "breath of fresh air" The Sky Is Big describes the staff "very friendly," and South Bay Foodies were smitten with it all. 851 Cordova Street; website [EaterWire]
