A Brasserie Downtown; Bagels in Southie

THEATER DISTRICT — Renovations are moving right along at the former Avila space, which is becoming Ostra, the newest member of the Columbus Hospitality Group. Based on an album of construction photos shared on Facebook, it looks like upscale seafood project could be getting some large sea life murals. [FB]

SOUTH BOSTON — The owners of a Southie froyo spot, YoBerry, are opening a bagel shop next week. Boston Bagel Company, which will be located at 753 East Broadway, plans to serve over 15 varieties of "New York-style bagels" and sandwiches. [FB via BRT]

DOWNTOWN — The Merchant, a 200-seat "American brasserie" with a raw bar, could open in December on Franklin Street. Matthew Foley, a Craigie on Main alum, will be in charge of the kitchen. [BRT]
[Photo: Ostra/Facebook]