Nosh Pit

Maria Hines to Open Golden Beetle in Late February

Eastern Mediterranean small plates and craft cocktails are coming soon to Ballard.

Posted by: Jessica Voelker on Jan 03, 2011 at 09:42AM0 Comments

James Beard Winner and Iron Chef superstar Maria Hines opens her second restaurant in late February.

I just got word that Tilth owner Maria Hines will open her second restaurant, Golden Beetle, in late February at 1744 Northwest Market Street in Ballard.

According to press materials, Golden Beetle will serve a menu inspired by the cuisines of countries like Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, Morocco, and Algeria. Expect lots of rabbit and lamb and small game birds and beef portioned into skewer bites and meatballs rather than big hunking steaks. There will be an emphasis on Eastern Mediterranean seasonings such as sumac, fenugreek, and ras al-hanout (a spice mixture that includes dried golden beetle, hence the restaurant’s name). The menu will be small plates-focused but will include entree-sized options, too. Hines is also planning a list of craft cocktails—it sounds like the bar will be a draw of its own at Golden Beetle. All in all it sounds a lot more casual than the Northwest-inspired Tilth.

Meanwhile at Tilth, Hines has promoted her sous chef, Jason Brzozowy, to chef de cuisine. She plans to split her time between her two restaurants.

Hines is currently traveling, I’ll talk to her as soon as I can about all the details.

Tags: New Seattle Restaurants, Seattle Restaurant Openings, Restaurant News, Ballard, Maria Hines