Inspired by the likes of BLT Burger (Chef Laurent Tourondel’s Vegas burgery) and Hubert Keller’s SF Burger Bar, Santa Rosa restaurateur Nino Rabbaa plans to open his own version along Third Street in early 2011.
The Parisian-born owner of Rendez Vous Bistro has tentatively named the planned eatery Downtown Burger Bar, which will feature everything from foie gras and truffle-shaved patties to vegetarian portobella burgers, buffalo burgers and gluten-free burgers for a total of 12 selections.
“We’re only going to have burgers on the menu,” said Rabbaa.
The casual-gourmet burger spot will take over the former Worth Our Weight and GG’s Earth and Surf space on Third Street near D St. An extensive remodel of both interior and exterior is getting underway. Rabbaa plans to have an open floor plan with a special area for children, a patio and fire pit.
The back of the restaurant is being renovated to provide a space for an in-house bakery and catering prep. Currently Rabbaa is working on perfecting the croissant for the restaurant’s breakfast service. Also in the works is a mobile crepe truck.
