Bohemian has West Seattle niche

It's tough to imagine anything new that could contribute to California Avenue's restaurant scene, but The Bohemian, located at 3405 California Avenue Southwest, has, in fact, found its own niche.

After nearly a year of serious construction while the local community waited, The Bohemian opened on Sept. 15.

The globally influenced restaurant is the result of efforts from the entire Rice family.

Jason Rice says he has wanted to be a chef since he was 10 years old. After studying at culinary school in San Francisco, he spent 15 years working in public restaurants, specializing in opening new operations. Eventually he was invited to Seattle to work as a private chef for Paul Allen and, later Craig and Susan McCaw.

After awhile, Jason desired to reenter the restaurant scene, but in his own place.

Meanwhile, older brother Eric Rice was working as a bar tender. He managed restaurants in California and at Capitol Hill's Garage.

The two had always wanted to open a restaurant together, but the dream did not become a reality until their mother, Terri Ross, and her husband Lanny offered to finance the project.

"We've learned a lot about what to do and what not to do," Jason said. "And eventually we'll buy (the restaurant) back."

Before opening, the proprietors visited many of West Seattle's existing restaurants, noting what was popular and what was not, and making sure their establishment would not be too similar.

The Bohemian's warm dŽcor and vintage theme was partially inspired by a trip Terry and Jason took to Paris. But it is clear that Jason and Eric's menu draws from many influences.

The Bohemian is already known for its unique ingredients and presentation. Still the menu is quite approachable. Jason creates dishes with a unique twist, such as a cheese pasta with smoked bleu cheese.

One of the most popular dishes are the cast-iron raclettes-aged cheeses melted over different combinations of meat, fish and vegetables-served with artisan bread and rustic crackers.

The menu also includes several items to snack on, such as sweet potato fries and tapenades.

From the bar, The Bohemian's sangria is a local favorite already. The restaurant sold out of it on three different nights during the first week they were open.

Eric has also fashioned a unique cocktail menu that includes infused vodka, fresh muddled fruit and even absinthe.

The Bohemian's wine menu is another pleasant surprise to first time visitors, ranging from $4 to $8 a glass, and bottle prices as low as $15.

The restaurant plans to expand their menu in the future, and began serving brunch on Oct. 5.

Still, Jason says he will steer clear of any cuisine that might overlap with their neighbors.

Besides its menus, The Bohemian also takes pride in its music and visual art. The walls of the restaurant currently boast work from five local artists.

Live acoustic music has also been a highlight of many evenings at The Bohemian, including performances from Garfield high school musicians.

"The art is just as important as the food," Terry said.

While The Bohemian's rich dŽcor might seem to represent an upscale establishment, Jason and Eric want their customers to feel relaxed and comfortable so that it becomes a frequent, once-a-week destination.

A healthy, affordable kids menu also makes The Bohemian family-friendly.

"It's a nice surprise," Eric said. "People can bring their kids and still have a nice glass of wine."

Further distinguishing the restaurant, The Bohemian operates as a coffee and pastry shop in the mornings.

So far their business formula seems to be working. The Bohemian has been full almost every night since it opened.

For more information visit www.BohemianSeattle.com.