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The team behind Michelin-starred Protégé is opening a cocktail bar near its restaurant in Palo Alto.
“We are planning a cocktail bar inspired by our favorite bars in Tokyo, London, and New York City, which are applying a similar level of creativity and technique to beverage that Michelin-starred chefs apply to cuisine,” Protégé co-owner Dennis Kelly wrote in an email.
The cocktail bar will be located at 299 California Ave., the former home of wine bar Calave, which is across the street from Protégé. Kelly said the bar is expected to open early next year.
“Harnessing the best of Japanese and American bartending styles, we will blend traditional technique with the ease and style of modern mixology,” Kelly wrote in an email. “We will also serve super-tasty snacks, all popping with salty, sweet, umami-driven flavors.”
Kelly and co-owner Anthony Secviar opened Protégé in March 2018 and received a Michelin star just nine months later. Protégé offers contemporary California cuisine, and the Michelin Guide wrote that “although the service is adroit (and the wine list excellent), this sleek modern space is far from stuffy.”
Prior to opening Protégé, both Kelly and Secviar had experience at three-Michelin-starred The French Laundry in Yountville. Secviar served as sous chef from 2005 to 2011, and Kelly worked there as captain and head sommelier for more than a decade. Kelly is one of only 279 people in the world to have received the title of “Master Sommelier,” the highest distinction in fine wine and beverage service.
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