Michael Martensen to Open Proof & Pantry at One Arts

Cocktail whisperer Michael Martensen will soon have a new place to hang his hat: Late yesterday Escape Hatch's Mike Hiller reported that Martensen, along with partner Sal Jafar II (who also co-founded Driftwood) would open Proof & Pantry at One Arts Plaza, in the space that most recently housed The Greek (and before that, The Commissary).

A press release this morning confirms the news and offers more details, describing P&P as "a multi-faceted American restaurant and bar featuring progressive, yet approachable American fare along with a diverse and original bar program." The release says P&P is just the first concept from Misery Loves Co., a new hospitality group formed by Martensen and Jafar. No menu details yet, though the release does hit on buzzwords like "seasonality" and "impeccably sourced ingredients."

Food will range from $10-30 with drinks coming in at $8-15. Also, the interior will be influenced by "an industrial rustic pantry lined with shelving, rusted metals, distressed wood accents and tile."

Martensen told Hiller that he plans to "assemble the best bar team in the city" — a team that was scattered when Martensen and his loyal employees parted ways with The Cedars Social and Smyth last November. He hasn't yet revealed who will be P&P's chef, though.

It's certainly promising news for One Arts Plaza, which has been somewhat of a revolving door for mediocre restaurants (save for Japanese wonder Tei-An). Look for Proof & Pantry to open early this summer.

· Proof & Pantry to Open in Former Commissary Space [Escape Hatch]
· More Michael Martensen coverage [-EDFW-]

[Photo: One Arts Plaza/Facebook]