The Foundry on Melrose

Chef Eric Greenspan’s polished California fare is on display at this modern bistro and from the looks of the people flocking to it, it’s hitting all the right notes. More sophisticated than neighboring Melrose Bar & Grill or The Village Idiot, the vibe is upscale and elegant. Greenspan, who worked in the kitchen at the original Patina, describes it as “fine dining for the everyday man,” which is to say good, well-made food with high-end ingredients but without the pretension and fuss. The space fills up quickly and it can be noisy and crowded, especially with the almost-nightly live music emanating from the lounge in the front. If you sit on the patio, you’ll have a considerably more subdued meal – better to enjoy the Jidori chicken, beef short ribs, veal three ways or the daily tasting menu for $75. Better yet, request the chef’s table situated directly in front of the kitchen for a different experience altogether. But don’t get too attached to any one dish because the menu is updated constantly.

TIPS: Expect a wait, sometimes even with reservations. There is live jazz Thursday through Saturday nights and during the day on Sundays. Three, four and five course prix fixe menus are offered on Sundays for $29, $39 and $49.