A few weeks ago, Sonoma Restaurateurs Mark and Terri Stark (of Monti’s, Bravas, etc.) announced that they would be opening a new restaurant at the former Italian Affair in Santa Rosa. More details about the space are emerging, including the fact that (not big surprise) the menu will have a strong focus on poultry.
“We’re bringing chicken back,” said Terri Stark. “We’re moving on from all pig, all the time,” she added, which is a departure from the pig-centric bent of many a Wine Country chef over the last five years.
Not that a little pork and beef won’t show up on the American comfort food menu, but expect crispy chicken skin instead of pork rinds and fried pork ears (featured at Willi’s Wine Bar). The feel will be “modern tavern style” said Stark of the decor, more homey and less minimal. The good news for al fresco diners: The restaurant will feature 48 seats on the front deck for warm-weather dining.
The Starks are aiming to open by the end of the year.