THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Calumet Arts Cafe

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Calumet Arts Cafe Restaurant Review:

Known as one of the pioneers of the downtown entertainment district, the Calumet dwells in the tension between elegance and mass-appeal. Proprietor Mark Goldman has tried a number of configurations for his establishment. The most recent remodeling job leaves the interior with a subdued sage and mahogany wash, artful lighting, and the Mediterranean feel of local painter Peter Fowler’s more figurative work. The outside patio, however, remains casual. Both have a dining area and bar, plus space for varied musical guests. The menu is still in flux, but always offers a few gems. A good starter was the spinach salad with Danish blue cheese, grilled portobellos, and marinated baby beets with a warm balsamic vinaigrette. A variety of seafood appetizers are also available, including a sampler with crab cake and scallop ceviche. Among the entrées, we enjoyed the pan-roasted duck breast served with sweet potato purée, braised red cabbage, and a cassis-ginger sauce. A server-recommended yellowfin tuna was a bit of a disappointment, however, suffering from too many tomatoes and too much time on the grill. The Calumet’s wine list is short but well-chosen and the bar well-stocked with single-malts and port, making it a good place to linger any night of the week, whether talking with friends or listening to the featured band.