The Yard, the popular neighborhood gastropub in downtown Santa Monica, celebrates its brand new look and menu and introduces Executive Chef, Chris “CJ” Jacobson of Bravo’s hit cable TV show “Top Chef.” The grand re-opening week will begin with a private celebration on Tues. Nov. 3, 2009 at 6p.m.  This fully-hosted extravaganza will consist of a complementary smorgasbord of hand-crafted specialty drinks, mouth-watering American-style tapas, live entertainment, and meet-n-greets with Chef CJ. The Yard will open to the public, continuing with the festivities at 9 p.m. Please go to the official website www.theyardsm.com to view an updates of the grand opening week’s offerings.

“The Yard was started around the idea of creating community around the Arts and Westsiders, in general, at an underground location that ran for two and half fun, crazy years,” says Sean Norris, owner of The Yard.  “Now that we have CJ on board at our great new location, we have all the elements of what I like best in a restaurant – outstanding food and drinks served in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.”

Chris Jacobson, better known as “CJ,” is thrilled to be fulfilling his long-time dream of running his own kitchen as Executive Chef at The Yard.  A former private chef, CJ has cooked for the likes of author and columnist Arianna Huffington and the Marciano Family of the Guess Corporation.  He began his culinary career cooking in the kitchens of popular restaurants such as Axe, Wolfgang Puck Catering and Harold Catering.  He then moved to Campanile where he furthered his skills under renowned Chef Mark Peel.  As a competitor on Season 3 of “Top Chef,” CJ distinguished himself from the crowd with his approachable yet competitive spirit.  He most recently appeared on “Top Chef Masters” as sous-chef to Michelin-starred chef Michael Chiarello.

“My vision for The Yard is to be a place where foodies can enjoy great, fun food at an affordable price in a comfortable atmosphere,” CJ explains. Inspired by seasonal fare, CJ shops for ingredients at the Santa Monica’s Farmers Market weekly.  Some of his favorite dishes at The Yard include Crispy Beef Cheek, Pan-Seared Diver Scallops with Citrus, Fresh Fish Tacos and Grilled Skirt Steak with Horseradish & Grilled Grapes.

Who: The Yard, Your Neighborhood Gastropub in Downtown Santa Monica, CA

What: The Yard Grand Re-Opening Party with New Chef Chris ‘CJ’ Jacobson                                                     of “Top Chef” Fame Introducing a New Look and Menu.

When: Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 6pm; The Yard opens to the public at 9pm offering grand opening specials.

Where:        119 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401

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