After operating as a speakeasy during Prohibition, then as a neighborhood joint for the past few decades, The Biltmore has made a recent shift to mass appeal that's now complete. Following last year's buzz around the place – when a team of young restaurateurs gave it a good once-over and revitalized it as a lively, cozy gastropub – management switched hands, the name was changed to The Biltmore Bar & Grille and chef Jason Owens was brought on board. He immediately set to creating a new menu with a decidedly Southern twang. And, since the beginning of August, the restaurant has been featuring live music on Thursdays–Saturdays with acts ranging from Jack Johnson–like singer/guitarists to Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley tribute performers (music starts at 9 PM; 1205 Chestnut St., Newton; 617-527-2550).