Openings

A First Look at Balsan and Ria, Opening Wednesday

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Originally slated to open this summer, the restaurants at the Elysian Hotel are finally ready to take their opening bows this Wednesday. While the two restaurants differ in tone — the three-meals-a-day Balsan is more casual, the dinner-only Ria is about as plush a dining room as we’ve ever seen (the walls actually sparkle) — they share more than just an address. There’s that Elysian Hotel je ne sais quoi, a certain grey-toned elegance that extends through both restaurants, and there’s also the kitchen: Executive chef Jason McLeod heads up an all-star team that’s dedicated to turning out game-changing cuisine. Check out our slideshow for a peek at the dining rooms, the kitchens, and — of course — the food.

A First Look at Balsan and Ria, Opening Wednesday