West Seattle restaurant notes: Heartland Cafe, Eness, Phoenecia

(Photo courtesy FL)
HEARTLAND CAFE: FL was stopping by nearby Zatz A Better Bagel and spotted this mural being painted on the side of the new Admiral restaurant – which as you probably know is at the site of the former Admiral Benbow Inn, therefore the name over its side entrance. We’ve reported on the Heartland before, here (with WSB’ers’ 100+ menu suggestions) and here; we have a message out to its proprietor to ask for an update on projected opening. Meantime, a bit further south:

ENESS RESTAURANT: The awning is now painted with the name of the new restaurant going in at 3247 California SW (map; former site of Beato). We have previewed Eness, too – here’s that story from a month and a half ago. (Also, looks like they’re hiring.)

NEW WEBSITE FOR PHOENECIA: Many rave reviews for the new Phoenecia, reborn on Alki. The Khazaal family has been writing up a storm on the restaurant’s Facebook page (for example, read about their sustainable-seafood decision) – but now they have a brand-new website too, including menu information and photos – see the site here. It’s produced by West Seattle’s own Sindelar Communications/Marketing.

nmb March 8, 2010 (9:22 am)

This may be a dumb question, but why is the new Heartland Cafe painting a Benbow Room mural at its side entrance, when that restaurant no longer exists? A nod to the past perhaps? I wouldn’t be so confused if pirates had anything to do with Midwest cuisine.

dawsonct March 8, 2010 (9:43 am)

Apparently the new owners are paying homage to the late, lamented Benbow. A smart move in our sentimental part of Seattle.

westseattledood March 8, 2010 (12:47 pm)

I am hoping there is a menu for Heartland we can peek at soon. And, I’m also thinking they might want security for their opening day….it is going to be a stampede of hearty appetites.

JanS March 8, 2010 (1:13 pm)

and it’s only 1/2 block from home :) Gotta love it…

Jay Wergin March 8, 2010 (7:37 pm)

The mural will distinguish the bar entrance and pay tribute to the old Admiral Benbow Inn – Chart Room. The artist, John Jermyn used to paint window art at the Admiral Benbow Inn and is a perfect fit for this reason. And after all… West Seattle can’t have to many murals.