Tag Archives: Michael Martensen

Tesar Hosts ‘Feed the Children’ Benefit at Knife on September 27th

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On Wednesday, September 27, Chef John Tesar will host a dinner benefiting Feed The Children, featuring a reception and seated dinner, and other acclaimed guest chefs. This dinner is part of the Celebrity Chef Series campaign and will be held at Knife. The event starts with a reception at 6:00 p.m., followed by a multi-course dinner at 7:00 p.m.

The funds from the dinner will help to deliver semi-tractor trailer loads of disaster relief supplies such as bottled water, food, hygiene items, diapers, and other much-needed essentials to Houston and the surrounding areas.

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Proof + Pantry Celebrates Thailand

pp soft shellby Steven Doyle

We met up with a very enthusiastic Michael Martensen, owner of Proof + Pantry in One Arts Plaza, who was pleased to chat up his new menu which is all about Thai cuisine and we couldn’t have been more pleased.

Now in its third year on the plaza Proof + Pantry seems to have unlocked the code for sustaining a good business model at a location which has had its moments in restaurant history. The key is obviously a fantastic cocktail program, which Martensen has this shining ability to perform, and one seriously good menu which offers staples that will most likely never be removed.  These items include their tenderloin with truffled whipped potatoes, a crazy good dish of mussels, burrata, you get the idea. But the seasonal side of the menu is where all the fun begins.  Continue reading

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Dollar Oysters and Absinthe at Driftwood

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What is the best oyster deal in town? There are some really good prices this season at a variety of restaurants, but so far the dollar blue points at Driftwood beats them all. The deal is only available at the new bar, and not valid on weekends, but for a dollar this is something truly wonderful to holler about.

While you are at the bar, check out Michael Martensen’s new set up with his absinthe drip stations. Oh, you recall absinthe, the mysterious liquor that was banned for so long in this country for its evil and suspicoius hallucinogenic prowess.  Absinthe is an anise-flavored spirit derived from botanicals, including the flowers and leaves of wormwood.    Continue reading

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Proof + Pantry To Open In One Arts Plaza

One Arts Plaza - Dallas, TXby Steven Doyle

Since departing with his bar crew from Smyth and Cedar Social, James Beard nominated barmen and restaurateur Michael Martensen has been promising major announcement that would be a deal changer in Dallas. Today we were sent word of his latest concept that will open early summer of 2014 in the former Greek (and Commissary) in One Arts Plaza.  Proof + Pantry’s drink menu will feature a collection of carefully selected spirits and wine showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to “diversity and originality”.

“The Proof + Pantry team is incredibly talented and their menu is one you could dine on every night. Our tenants, residents and Arts District patrons can look forward to delicious food and craft cocktails at the end of a long day or before and after enjoying a show. We are thrilled to have them,” says Lucy Burns, Partner, Billingsley Company.   Continue reading

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History With A Twist April 26

flappersby Steven Doyle

History with a Twist is a celebration of classic American cocktails, created by noted Dallas Mixologist Michael Martensen. Attendees can stroll down Dallas Heritage Village’s Main Street and visit various cocktail stations while enjoying heavy hors d’oeuvres and entertainment from the Singapore Slingers. This event is a celebration of classic American cocktails, served along the charming Main Street at Dallas Heritage Village, which features historic buildings, including a bank, a general store, a saloon and a rail depot.

Vintage attire from Prohibition and the early 20th century is encouraged. There will also be a silent auction featuring dining and wine packages, along with some exclusive experiences, a photo booth, vintage car display and more.   Continue reading

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The Establishment’s Adjoining Reservation Bar Opens This Week

DSC06082by Steven Doyle

Look for the new reservation bar that is attached to the space that will soon become the Establishment to open this week. Brian Williams and Michael Martensen both hosted a sneak preview for friends and family this past Friday evening, and we were able to get a glimpse of the bar.

Currently the bar has no name and Martensen said they are still tweaking the logo. Rumor has it that the space might be named Bar Smyth, but that could change.     Continue reading

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