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While some restauranteurs are moving westward (like, say Gavin Kaysen) at least one is moving east. Chef Eli Wollenzien along with business partner and childhood friend Deacon Eells are taking their Excelsior restaurant, Coalition and expanding to the 50th and France neighborhood.
The Southwest Journal reports that the new location could be open as soon as mid-April inside the former 50th Street Cafe address at 3808 W. 50th Street.
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The menu will mirror the original with modern takes on American fare and with any luck, a full liquor license will be secured so that it can also serve craft cocktails. The room is getting a full remodel that will change the entrance and create a four-season porch.
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Coalition in Excelsior first opened in 2014 by the duo who grew up together in River Falls, Wisconsin. Wollenzien came up in the kitchens at Crave and in Blue Plate restaurants before the duo launched their own business. His menu is inspired by the seasons and locally sourced food. The cocktails also have a local focus, often using regionally made spirits for a fancy bump.
Look for the second Coalition to open this spring.
