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"I note that Brian Clevenger’s new Eastlake pasta restaurant opens today, adding to his collection of Italy-meets-Northwest neighborhood ventures. The space is reminiscent of his West Seattle restaurant Raccolto—minimalist, with poured concrete floors, light gray walls, and blonde wood booths—and features an open kitchen with a wrap-around chef’s counter that puts the cooks front and center. As with Clevenger’s other restaurants, Le Messe serves house pastas, local vegetable dishes, and a selection of seafood options, with items like fresh burrata, crudos, and made-to-order mozzarella; the menu will change with the seasons. Diners can sit in the dining room or at the chef’s counter (which will not require a reservation), and the restaurant promises a patio when the weather is nice. Drinks range from original cocktails using locally and internationally sourced spirits to a deep wine list with Italian, French, and Pacific Northwest labels. Starting today it is open daily from 5 to 10 p.m., with a bar happy hour from 5 to 6 p.m. and 9 to 10 p.m." - Megan Hill