Whisk Chefs Prepare for Brassica Opening in JP

Two chefs behind Whisk, a popular pop-up that at one time resided at Wink & Nod, are getting closer to debuting a new concept that they have been working on for some time. Jeremy Kean and Philip Kruta are opening Brassica Kitchen + Cafe this May in the Fazenda Cafe space in Jamaica Plain, which they purchased over the summer and have been slowly converting into their dream restaurant while continuing to run it as a cafe (Whisk at Fazenda). Now, they're testing some Brassica menu items on Sunday nights as a "weekly speakeasy" called Forest Hills Social Club, according to The Boston Globe.

At the regular event, Kean and Kruta will be showcasing cocktails and snacks, and they're planning to preview the full Brassica menu on March 18 and 19. It will likely be less complex than the Whisk menu, as the duo has moved away from "fussy plating [and] edible sculptures," they told the Globe. "It’s really the neighborhood spot we want to create now," Kruta added. "It’s not really global recognition you need to fill a restaurant, it’s just a good neighborhood."

Kruta is also keeping busy building all the furniture for Brassica. Plus, the pair have made a hire — Arthur Haynes, an alum of Daniel and Bouchon Bakery in New York, is onboard as pastry chef.