For the better part of seven months, chef Fabio Mota and his team have been methodically constructing the new home of Club Isabella (2175 Cornell Rd.). Located in the former Goose Acres Music in Little Italy, the restaurant is a short walk from the original jazz club, which was razed in 2007 by University Hospitals.
Mota, the original Club I’s final owner, says the new space is “beautiful,” boasting a warm-contemporary décor with chunky white marble, red brick walls, leather banquettes and original hardwood floors. Out front, a travertine-paved courtyard evokes images of the wonderful patio at the old place. The restaurant will accommodate approximately 85, with additional seating for 40 outside.
Due to open in late April, Club Isabella will offer “eclectic gourmet,” cuisine, which Mota describes as high-end but not intimidating. Though still finalizing the menu, Mota says diners can look forward to slider and tartar tasting menus, salads, thin-crust pizzas, fish and seafood, and grilled meats. Prices will run from $6 to $32.
While live music was a regular staple at the old Club Isabella, Mota says that it will likely be reserved for weekends only here.
This article appears in Mar 23-29, 2011.
