Preview Le Messe, Brian Clevenger’s New Eastlake Pasta Emporium

Brian Clevenger’s Eastlake pasta restaurant, Le Messe, opens today, adding to the chef’s collection of neighborhood Italy-meets-Northwest ventures. The space is reminiscent of his West Seattle restaurant, Raccolto, skewing minimalist, with poured concrete floors, light gray walls, and blonde wood booths. An open kitchen with a wrap-around chef’s counter puts the cooks front and center.

Morgen Schuler

As with Clevenger’s other restaurants, Le Messe serves house pastas, local vegetable dishes, and a selection of seafood options, with items like fresh burrata, crudos, and made-to-order mozzarella making appearances. The menu will change with the seasons, and patrons can sit in the dining room or at a chef’s counter, which will not require a reservation. Le Messe promises a patio when the weather is nice, too.

Morgen Schuler

Drinks range from original cocktails using locally and internationally sourced spirits, plus a deep wine list with Italian, French, and Pacific Northwest labels. Starting today, the restaurant is open daily from 5 to 10 p.m., with a happy hour in the bar from 5 to 6 p.m. and 9 to 10 p.m.

Morgen Schuler

Clevenger also owns Vendemmia and East Anchor Seafood in Madrona. In September, he shuttered his Capitol Hill restaurant Contadino after only a few months in business.