Murray Stenson Headed for New Cocktail Bar The Elysian

The owners of Elysian Brewing Co. are launching cocktail spot The Elysian on Second Ave. between Pike and Pine next month, and Murray Stenson will be behind the bar. When Stenson left Il Bistro last February it wasn't clear where he was headed next, with some fans of the iconic bartender crossing their fingers he'd start his own watering hole. But Tan Vinh at The Seattle Times reports that Kacy Fitch, a founder of Zig Zag Café who is heading up The Elysian's bar program, has brought Stenson on the roster.

In addition to booze, the bar at the former Noc Noc location at 1516 2nd Ave. will offer 20 beers on draught (but no brewery) and "more sophisticated food" than the sandwich-centric menus at Elysian's other outposts. SoDo's Westland Distillery is producing a house gin.

The revamped space will feature a "sweeping staircase" and seat 200. The Elysian will be open until 2 a.m. daily, but according to Vinh, Stenson will work Monday through Thursday only. Expect doors to open May 1.
· Elysian Hires Murray Stenson for its New Cocktail Bar [Seattle Times]
· All Murray Stenson Coverage [-ESEA-]
· The Elysian [Official Site]