The Hake Kitchen & Bar Debuts on Prospect St. in La Jolla

June 9, 2013

The Hake Kitchen & Bar will open this June on Prospect Street in La Jolla, bringing a fresh new dining concept to the seaside town’s main drag.  The Hake offers modern interpretations of simple dishes inspired by global brasseries in an attractive, relaxed environment. This new “neighborhood brasserie” will become a gathering place for locals to enjoy inspired cuisine, a welcoming atmosphere and sophisticated service.

“The Hake is based on our passion for simple dishes that showcase the high quality and freshness of ingredients,” says Managing Partner and restaurateur Ricardo Dondisch. Dondisch has opened several notable restaurants in Mexico City alongside well-known chefs Federico Rigoletti and Roberto Craig, who will oversee the seasonal menu at The Hake.

Shrimp tacos
Photo by Adam Wiseman

“The concept is inspired by Frederico and Roberto’s successful contemporary incarnations of classic brasseries in Mexico City like Puntarena, Marentino, Primos and Sobrinos. While these restaurants all embody modern brasseries, each has a distinct feel that caters to its colonia, or neighborhood.  The Hake will offer the same, serving adaptations of brasserie fare that fits the palates of San Diegans who seek fresh seafood, inventive preparations, sharable plates and an environment where they can relax and have a good time.”

The Hake’s menu showcases fresh seafood, while highlighting the “neighborhood brasserie” concept to create cuisine that is straightforward with Mediterranean, Latin American and Asian influences. Separated into section of smaller and larger portions, the menu begins with Snacks consisting of one-to-two bite dishes like Croquettes with cured ham and spicy mayo dipping sauce and the Tuna Tostada with a ponzu scallion marinade, avocado and fried leeks.  Next are traditional Tiraditos, or lightly dressed sashimi style preparations, that can be enjoyed solo or among a group.

Tiradito de pulpo
Photo by Adam Wiseman

Standouts include Octopus with yuzu, schiracha chili paste and house cured pickles and Sea Scallop with yuzu, sea salt and olive oil.  Appetizers consist of larger portioned dishes, which encourage sharing, such as the Seared Hamachi and Asparagus with Cajun crust and radish salad and Portuguese Soup with cilantro garlic pesto, poached seafood and white wine broth.  Rounding out the menu are the Main Courses consisting of “Sea” and “Land” options like the broiled Cayenne Jumbo Shrimp with smoked Spanish paprika and lime and the Berkshire Pork Chop with au jus, granny smith apples, potatoes and endive.  Finally, there are a variety of Sides such as Horseradish Mashed Potatoes and Cajun or Truffled Fries.

The Hake will be open for lunch everyday with a menu similar to the dinner offerings, in addition to other more traditional lunch fare.  Salad options include the Five Herb Salad with house vinaigrette, avocado and cucumber and Burrata Salad with heirloom tomatoes, arugula and key lime dressing.  Hearty and tasty sandwiches include the Baja Shrimp Roll with butter lettuce and celery on a brioche roll, the Grilled “BLT” with grilled heirloom tomatoes, burrata, grilled lettuce on a brioche bun and the Black Angus Burger with house pickles, butter lettuce on a broche bun, in addition to other entrees.

The 3,400 square foot restaurant utilizes design inspiration from the natural elements already existing in the building, providing guests the feeling that they have taken a step into a timeless neighborhood establishment. The dining area of the restaurant boasts a modern color palette of white and earth tones with touches of exposed wood and mirrored accents to brighten the space. Couples and groups alike will be able to enjoy dining al fresco on the front patio nestled on Prospect Street and embellished with bright greenery and light fixtures sourced from local salvage and design stores.

The Hake’s extensive bar will energize the restaurant with conversation and excitement. At one end of the marble-topped bar is a vibrant raw bar, which allows guests a visual of the fresh seafood and beautiful dishes being created.  A versatile wine list offers vintage classics highlighting world-class wines, alongside classic hand-crafted cocktails and an extensive mezcal inventory.

The Hake Kitchen & Bar is located at 1250 Prospect Street in La Jolla, California, 92037. The restaurant will be open daily for lunch and dinner from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

To learn more, please visit www.thehake.com or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheHake and Twitter at @thehakelj.