Posted on February 12, 2008 at 10:51 a.m.

Teresa: Fan, yes. Critic most of the time. I belong to an organization of food professionals who have concurred with my statements. It's a chat line dealing with topics of similar industry interest i.e. restuarants, what's new, industry buzz, investments, etc. I'm not referencing general web buzz. My apologies for the misinterpretation. I can, along with others appreciate your opinion. I'm not the one to carry on debate polls. However, in case you were unaware, many people were fans. Again, you're opinion is what it is - fair. Nonetheless, I don't know the owner personally, but I am aware & know (personally) of two former Brinker Execs who have formed their own company seeking to make that concept part of their portfolio, which is similar to several successful bistros acquired by the group. Your experience, as valid as it might be was what it was...sorry to hear that, okay? CR fits the bill for what "some" of us wanted in the area. I hope I can still make statements like that without stirring emotions. They (investment types), like myself, are longtime O.C. residents. Regarding the "inside story" I only know that it was a great deal for the owner based mainly from some of the financial people involved in the transaction, who shall remain nameless. I'm trying to reach the previous owner because of a few research projects going on within the O.C. area, and because I understand he owns other property my colleagues would be interested in...that's the extent of my knowledge. However, as the information becomes more public, and I am given the o.k. to unfold the few details I'm aware of I will let you know. Just know that whatever the operating numbers were regarding CR they were obviously working for what their immediate goals were...perception is one thing, facts are what they are...And believe me these investors I make mention of not only crunch numbers, but evaluated, week after week, the place. They (my acquaintances) formed this group a few years ago, and haven't stumbled yet. But again, I'm sure your personal assessment is quite valid. Let's see..I think I responded to most of your questions. Oh yes, he (previous owner) has a production company of sorts. I reached a personal assistant who told me he was out of town. Regarding not changing the structure or turning it over...I'm not aware of, but either money or some type of interest has a way of changing one's mindset. Again, not sure if that's the case. Also, independent of my professional linkages, other local sites have similar views, but it is what it is.....

DC: I agree with the drinks, but I enjoyed the food there as well. Based on the numbers, Tillman's Roadhouse, believe it or not, is the most expensive "now," in the area, beating out Hatties (in terms of costs). They are very much appreciating thier new clientele. I never have an opinion about food cost from a restaurant. Most will charge whatever the market will bare. We basically, patronize entities we can afford. Those we can't afford, we pace our visits, but the Bishop Arts area is more affordable than the average meals across the Trinity and then some.

All in all, what I'm saying is simple. The reason why the Knox-Henderson corridor works (Hector's, Cretias, Javier's, Abacus, Toulouse, Cuba Libre, Fireside, Hibiscus, etc.)is because the locals appreciate the fact that each one place is different, and there is a market base for each one (in and outside the district). And believe me, it not "just" the local support keeping those puppies thriving. Similar to the B.A. District, that area depends on traffic some 30+ miles outside of their zone as well. The moment we, as a local, starts out with "the fit isn't there," is when we totally miss the boat. My wife and I are supporting the success of every business in our neighborhood. See you guys around.

On Cosmo Rouge bites the dust

Posted on February 11, 2008 at 1:56 p.m.

Spearsie: I believe the CR owner (also the property owner) sold the property (which was what triggered the closing of Cosmo Rouge). I hear the investment group set a record for the area. I've tried to reach the owner through his admin. person in order to get a statement, but he's out of the country through March. I'll let you know what I find out about another location. Our dinner group can't wait to locate the new digs. We've made that our spot at least twice a week. We'll update asap.

On Cosmo Rouge bites the dust

Posted on February 11, 2008 at 12:26 p.m.

We have lived in O.C. for 19 years and are now re-thinking our move back to N. Dallas because of simple minded attitudes (some)regarding the closing of C.Rouge. Their primary based came from N.Dallas. They're in the midst of opening the 3rd location. I am not sure of the 3rd local having the same name, but same food, etc. I am a consultant for restaurants and Cosmo Rouge was one of the best in town. There were several bids for that concept. Regarding Jingle Bells (earlier writer)- My wife works for the City of Dallas. The C.R. management only voiced concerns regarding the street closing due to a number of physically challenged people who could not make their reservations during the previous year. (22) elderly people hosting a dinner there that year could not make their way to the entrance. I've been in the meetings regarding the local buzz regarding that miscommunication and it disgusted me that way people misinterpreted the whole thing. C.R. owner was one of the biggest financial supporters if you were to do your homework regarding the festival and contributions in the area. Additionally, field data had it as one of the highest producing restaurants in O.C. bringing more out of area traffic/people we desperately need to keep this area fluid. I'm sorry to go on and on, but not knowing the owner personally I believe in knowing the facts before passing false information like the Mayberry idiots around my fair neighborhood. By the way, I would have sold as well if it sold for what I understand it to have sold for a few months back. The concept is being solicited by private groups as I write. The official word is closed to 1.5m. Nonetheless, like it or not, there are a core group of foodies who are all over the web now stating that there's little need to go back to B.Arts with restaurants like C.R. leaving the area. I'm a fan of all the restaurants/shops in the area. I'm prefer some over the other, but we remain open minded enough irrespective of my working knowledge of the business that it makes sense for places like this to stay around. Their weekend business was phenomenal, and raked in more than most of the spots in mere food sales. Checking out the public reports the food sales were far greater than the alcohol sales at C.R. This is the kind of place we can only hope fills that space. Again, sorry guys, but lies and rumors really hit a nerve this morning. By the way, the folks at Monica's and a few of the owners at Nick & Sams are bidding on the C.R. concept. I'm sure the less traveled and experienced critics wouldn't like those concepts either. We'll be cheering the current and new players on, but will miss this spot that North Dallas is chopping at the bits to acquire in several developed areas. Let's (not all), but those never visiting with the actual players in order to confirm such stories, be a tad more friendlier to our new neighbors. Take care neighbors!

On Cosmo Rouge bites the dust