New Restaurant to Open in February at Former Benice Site

Barnyard, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that will serve local, seasonal dishes, is set to open on Feb. 1 at the former Benice location on Pacific Avenue.

The chef at Barnyard is Jesse Barber, who trained with Tomas Keller at the famous Napa County restaurant French Laundry. The space has been fully remodeled and features a modern but rustic interior. A large community table and sofas will furnish the back yard area that will be surrounded by greenery.

Small plates and tapas, such as market greens in lemon vinaigrette and honey-glazed ribs, start at $3. Main courses start at $8 and include various salads, clams served with white beans and fennel, and a pork dish served with caramelized apples, polenta and grilled onions. 

Barnyard, located at 1715 Pacific Ave., will also serve eight tap beers, many from California, as well as a mix of Californian and European wines.