The old Left Bank restaurant space in the West End at 751 Denman St. has been picked up by former West Oak general manager Michael Gayman (above right). He’s aiming to turn the 1,500 sqft space into a casual “gastro-tavern” called The Blind Sparrow.

Helping him is chef Bryce Frisky (above left), also formerly of West Oak. Their plan for the 1,500 sqft 60 seater (all high-tops) is to create a cozy and comfortable neighbourhood spot with elevated bar food. To that end they’re looking at serving things like fresh oysters, sriracha buttermilk marinaded fried chicken with pecorino serrano ranch, and gochu garu braised boar ribs with kimchi. Though the menu I saw was only a draft, it read reassuringly.

As you can see from the images attached, the kitchen is getting a refit, and the dining room is being completely redone. They’re also adding a keg room to feed the bar’s 12 beer taps, and looking to take full advantage of their 25 seat alleyway patio when the season returns. Opening day is set November 19th. Take a look…

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