Cassis American Brasserie has taken over the empty space on the Beach Drive side of the Ovation Condominium building, promising an ‘affordable French-American brasserie menu’.  The restaurant began limited operations last weekend in an invitation-only setting, allowing the chefs and servers to get comfortable without being overwhelmed.  It was due to open to the public for dinner seatings on Monday, with plans to add a weekend brunch next, and then, eventually, weekday breakfasts and lunches. 

I have not tried Cassis yet, but I promise that I will, and soon – it looks beautiful inside, and I love the arrangements for outside seating – these high-tech swing-out umbrellas each have a built-in light, so that you’re not eating in the dark at night!  And the bar inside the restaurant looks just amazing from my window view.  As soon as I have a chance to eat here, I’ll post again with more details any my very objective opinion of the place.  But I was in the neighborhood one early morning a few days ago and had a chance to get this photo and wanted to mention Cassis right away – I love the fact that we have new restaurants opening downtown, and I’m happy to spread the word! (Please click on the photo for a larger image)