According to a press release that just landed in my inbox, Artisan House, the upscale deli/market/restaurant going into the historic Pacific Electric Building at 600 South Main in Downtown, will open the first week of December.  The ambitious project is overseen by managing partner Patrice Rozat (Mr. Chow, Four Seasons) and exec Chef Jason Ryczek (One Sunset, Boa), who will oversee a lengthy upmarket Cal/Med menu designed to be “adventurous and socially responsible” (including the current trend in eco-hip: the rooftop garden).  The extensive selection of choices will include salads, soups, sandwiches, flatbreads, mains and will be available in two dining rooms, a large patio, bar, and deli designed to evoke a “stylish neighborhood hangout” with a look utilizing the building’s original turn-of-the-century romanesque and beaux-arts design.  The market will stock specialty items such as artisan olive oils and vinegar, condiments, jams, chocolates, beer and wine.  DJs will be spinning tunes Thursday through the weekend, and brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday.  Clearly a lot of thought and development have gone into the creation of Artisan House including my vote for best idea ever:  “take-home cocktails”. 

You can follow progress on their website:  www.artisanhouse.net.