Kent Dawson is launching Briar Patch, a new restaurant in Congress Park, set to open in April.
Dawson describes Briar Patch as a neighborhood spot where everyone can find something they like. It’s taking over the space left by Crepes ‘n Crepes, which closed last summer after a brief run.
Like Briar Common, Briar Patch will serve lunch and dinner, with a menu that shares about 25% of its offerings. Expect favorites like buffalo cauliflower and poke salad, plus classic pub fare like burgers and fries.
Dawson aims to open the 2,400-square-foot restaurant in April. While no brewing will happen on-site, it should help boost sales at Briar Common, which produces around 500 barrels of beer annually.
He’s going solo on this venture, as his brother prefers to stay out of the restaurant side. Dawson recalls their early days at Briar Common, where they experimented too much with food and not enough with beer.
Despite some initial struggles, they found their groove after about 18 months. He’s aware of the challenges ahead, especially with rising costs and a recent dip in revenue.
Even though Briar Patch will operate independently, Dawson believes both businesses will benefit from shared branding and resources. His new landlord, City Street Investors, is optimistic about the restaurant’s potential in the neighborhood.
Interestingly, City Street is still dealing with the previous tenants of Crepes ‘n Crepes, who are facing a lawsuit for unpaid rent. It seems like a fresh start for Dawson and a new chapter for Congress Park.
