11/14/03

A sunny environment with gourmet fare in a neighborhood that's ready to happen.

by Contributor

The Scene
Elemental is a promising sign that even after years of fits and starts, the historic neighborhood of Olde Towne East is still pushing to revitalize. The space occupies two Parsons Avenue storefronts with creamy yellow walls, dressed up with oak trim and local artwork. The most casual visitors tend to sidle up to the bar, but the general look of the clientele is crisply casual.

The Food
Executive chef Suzanne Buck prepares an adventuresome menu that changes seasonally--so don't get too attached to a particular item. At both lunch and dinner, gourmet fare like fried panko-crusted walleye shares the menu with higher-end versions of old standards, including mushroom-smothered Philly steak sandwiches and cheeseburgers served with gorgonzola. This is also a good spot for Sunday brunch, when dishes like creme brulee French toast and goat cheese frittatas make an appearance.