Fadi Daoud closed his Mediterranean-themed restaurant Zdara in the Warehouse District around New Year's Eve, stating it wasn't the right fit for the neighborhood.
He has settled upon another concept that he thinks will succeed: burgers.
Daoud, also owner of Heck's Café in Ohio City, will open BRGR 9 (1382 W. 9th St.) in the first half of May. The name refers both to the location – W. 9th Street – and the burger size – 9 ounces.
"At Heck's, we are known for our burgers, but that is a full-service restaurant," he explains. "This is strictly a burger concept with lots of different types of foods, but all in burger form."
Burgers will be made of beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, crab, salmon and even lobster, he says. Burgers will be griddled and served on house-baked buns. In addition, there will be four versions of French fries and some 20 dips. Salads and milk shakes will round out the hyper-focused menu. Prices will start at around $6.50.
The yawning warehouse space will be cut in half front to back, with the front seating 80 and the rear half reserved for private functions.
BRGR 9 will be open for lunch, dinner and late-night dining on weekends.
