Chefs Phillip Frankland Lee and Margarita Kallas-Lee Close the Curtain on Pasta | Bar
The culinary world is abuzz with news that Chefs Phillip Frankland Lee and his wife, Margarita Kallas-Lee, are set to close their acclaimed fine dining restaurant, Pasta | Bar, at the end of February. This decision, shared with the American-Statesman, marks a significant shift for the couple and their Scratch Restaurants group, which has made waves in Austin’s dining scene.
The Rise of Pasta | Bar
Pasta | Bar quickly garnered attention after its debut in Austin, much like its predecessor in Los Angeles, which earned a Michelin star within its first year of operation. The Austin location, nestled within the Corazon Apartment building at 1017 E. Sixth St., opened in the spring of 2022, following the success of Sushi | Bar. This proximity to their sushi endeavor capitalized on a growing foodie culture, further propelled by social media influences, notably a shout-out from podcast giant Joe Rogan.
Transitioning to New Concepts
Despite the closure, this isn’t the end of the creative journey for the Lees. Under the umbrella of Scratch Restaurants, which operates two Sushi by Scratch locations in Austin and ten nationwide, plans are afoot for a fresh concept. While the specifics remain under wraps, Lee expressed a vision that aims to “focus on what matters most: bringing outstanding food, genuine hospitality, and new memories to our community here in Austin.”
Reflections on Customer Connections
Lee’s motivation for pivoting from the Pasta | Bar model stems from his enriching experiences at Shokunin, an a la carte sushi restaurant that operates next door. Here, Lee found a different dynamic with diners, one that fostered a more engaging and inclusive atmosphere. “Connecting with the general dining crowd has just felt so awesome,” he shared, indicating a yearning to craft a dining experience that resonates on a personal level.
What’s Next for the Lees
As for what the new concept will entail, specifics are still unfolding. Lee hinted that the upcoming idea will feature a la carte dining for an intimate group of just 20 guests. This shift seems to reflect a broader trend in the dining industry, where personalized experiences are becoming increasingly valued.
Evolution of the Restaurant Group
The journey to this point has been anything but linear. After separating from their partners at Sushi | Bar in 2023, the Lees embarked on a new chapter with Scratch Restaurants, reaffirming their commitment to innovation in Austin’s culinary landscape. The community has responded positively to their ventures so far, paving the way for this new, anticipated concept that promises to redefine their culinary offerings.
In a city that thrives on gastronomic creativity, the Lees’ next project is poised to excite not just their dedicated followers but also newcomers eager to explore what Austin’s dining scene has to offer.