How does a small restaurant survive in a Pandemic? Locöl reinvents and looks for support
How does a small restaurant survive in a Pandemic? Locöl reinvents and looks for support
New Take and Bake Pizzas, signature dishes to go, and a Go Fund Me with a twist
Locöl Barley and Vine General Manager Scott Maybanks is ready to sling some of their new Take and Bake gourmet pizzas as part of their take out menu makeover. The popular neighborhood spot is looking for support from regulars and others to make it through to spring when they plan to have a 10th Anniversary party for donors to a GoFundMe page.
Photo by Patrick Robinson
Wed, 12/09/2020
When Locöl Barley and Vine at 7902 35th SW opened in 2011 it was a long shot. No TV's, somewhat limited seating, a tiny galley kitchen and only serving wine and beer. But from the earliest concept about it by owner Kyle Duce it was marked by a high level intuition about what people really wanted in a neighborhood restaurant/bar.
Small plates of expertly prepared food, carefully curated, locally sourced wine and beer and a genuine warmth showed in everything from the decor to the smiles you were greeted with. It opened with a bang. For some reason, TV stations, and other media featured it and Locol was quickly sold out every night.
Fast forward to 2020 and the Pandemic and for Locöl and every other restaurant, it became a struggle just to stay open. Fear and uncertainty, and serious restrictions meant cash flow and customers became scarce.
Nearing their tenth anniversary, Duce and General Manager Scott Maybanks huddled on next steps.
What they came up with is in keeping with their original mission. Uniquely Locöl in that it's what you might call "bargain gourmet" they are now offering Take N Bake Pizzas. These are 15 inches (easily enough for four). All $20 or less. Three to start.
The Locöl Taco Za! - with Tiger Sauce base, marinated pork,mozzarella, arugula, cilantro, red radish, diced onions and cojita cheese.
All About the Veggies - with pesto. marinated artichoke hearts, mozzarella and goat cheese
It Aint Easy Being Cheesy - with marinara base and mozzarella
The Locöl Taco Za!.
These are now in addition some dishes that made the regionally famous, all To-Go too.
Cubano Sandwich- with braised pork, ham, spicy honey mustard, provolone cheese, ciabiatta bread, served with salad or chips
Seared Chicken - Chicken breast, mushrooms,peppers with Romesco Sauce
Locöl Fall Chili with butternut squash, garbanzo beans, tomatoes, peppers and onions
Los TacosLocöls - Marinated pork with cinnamon, orange, clove, garlic, cumin, cilantro, lime, onion, cojita cheese and a corn tortilla (served ala carte)
And for dessert (seriously)
B.A.B. Bad Ass Brownie - Super chocolate chunk brownie topped with a scoop of bourbon pumpkin ice cream
Mini Doughnuts - Home made, tossedin cinnamon, sugar and caramel sauce plus gelato
New Locol chef Christina making dough for home made preztels. Photo by Patrick Robinson
"We are doing about a third of our regular business," said Maybanks, "and now with the dine-in restrictions, even with our heated outdoor patio we need help to get to the other side of of this."
To that end Duce crafted a GoFundMe page with a promise. Donors will get gift cards for later redemption and those that contribute $50 or more will be invited to a very special, invitation only and catered 10th Anniversary Party when restrictions are lifted, likely sometime in the spring. "We are thinking of doing something unforgettable with some of our favorite musical performers, foods, and beverages all done in Locöl style," said Duce.
You can just stop by and pick up any of the pizzas (until they sell out) but for the other items please call them at 206-708-7725.
You can also order food from Locöl via Door Dash and soon on Caviar
They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 4pm to 9pm.
