Softly opened since early January is Encontro, which has transformed a prime spot of 30th and University (Heaven Sent Desserts' original location) into a striking space designed by BASILE Studio (KINDRED, Soda & Swine) that includes a reclaimed wood-wrapped exterior, copper countertops, lighting set into rough-hewn cedar and custom bench seating created from found i-beam structural supports. The windows fold in completely, opening the corner eatery to the sidewalk where two outdoor patios should be activated by next month.
The casual counter service concept, which is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and closes at midnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, revolves around sandwiches — from wild salmon to Mary's chicken and a variety of housemade sausages, including chorizo and a Thai-inspired shrimp and pork link, that are also available as gluten-free lettuce wraps. And there are salads, from a wedge to a kale caesar, that can be topped with anything from grilled shrimp to flat iron steak, with all proteins grilled fresh to order. Desserts are sourced locally, and include milkshakes made with Hammond's Gourmet Ice Cream and cakes from Heaven Sent. The bar features 24 rotating taps of beer, and wine.
Launching soon on the 30th Street side is a walk-up window, that will be open until the wee hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, offering an abridged menu of late night munchies — from burgers and fries to sausages and milkshakes.
