After a slow couple of months, new restaurant and bar openings seem to be back on the rise. Beyond Il Casale, which is finally soft-opening tonight, here are some of the other spots we have to look forward to.
Barlow’s: The Fort Point Channel dining scene will become even more crowded next month with this opening in the 5 Channel Center complex. The venture comes from the Superior Dining Group (Warren Tavern, Devlin’s), and while details are scarce, it’s expected to serve upscale bistro fare (40 Channel Center St.).
Dorado Tacos: As if Brookline’s student-packed Coolidge Corner neighborhood didn’t have enough cheap eats options, this taqueria will soon open in the space recently vacated by Ruth’s Kitchen (401 Harvard St.).
Famous Deli: The North End’s Strega will soon have a casual sister eatery around the corner, as owner Nick Varano is set to open Famous Deli on Cross Street next month. Diners can expect a straightforward assortment of Italian sandwiches and other takeaway treats. A new Strega location, opening next year at Fan Pier, is in the works as well.
Splash: Folks around town have been wondering what will happen to the Leather District space vacated by News. Given that that part of the city sorely needed a shot in the arm, Frank De Pasquale (the North End scion best known for Bricco, Mare and Trattoria Il Panino) will open a new venture called Splash around Memorial Day. The dining-nightlife hybrid will sport a Vegas theme, with lots of aquatic fixtures, a scenic roof deck and private cabanas, and the menu will offer an assortment of gourmet burgers, Mediterranean small plates and upscale bar fare (150 Kneeland St.).
Terenga: Senegalese native Marie-Claude Mendy will offer seafood, lamb chops and other favorites of the West African country at this restaurant due in May. Plans for the space include hardwood floors, earth-tone paints, zebra wood and artwork by local artists, while a small bar will dispense beer, wine and sake-based cocktails. “Many Caribbean restaurants substitute rum for sake,” said Mendy, whose bartender will use fruits from Senegal to make juices for the drinks (1746 Washington St.).
Trina’s Starlite Lounge: This nightlife spot, whose owners have ties to Silvertone, City Bar and Highland Kitchen, will occupy the Somerville space that formerly housed the divey Abbey Lounge. Expect cocktails and bar food served in a '50s-inspired space (3 Beacon St., Somerville).
Tupelo: Renee McLeod, the baker supreme behind Petsi Pies, is opening this restaurant in the old Magnolia’s space. Befitting its name, the menu will offer a variety of Southern-minded fare (1193 Cambridge St., Cambridge).