I can’t wait for Nov. 1.

Last night I was given a tour inside the newest addition to the Indochine family â€" Indochine on Pearl.

I was amazed.

The previous restaurant there, Sar’s, was decidedly uninspiring, from an interior standpoint.
Hong Ngove and her husband Sean Yean have changed that around, and then some.

A modern-cool water feature greets you on entry to the intimate space; you’re standing under the eaves of a traditional Thai building at that point. As you walk about three feet further, you can look up to see all the intricate detailing of the architectural feature, or down, to see slate-colored tile with detailed inset patterns.  Directly in front, a wall hides the hall to the restrooms, and on that wall, a fireplace cozies up the space made more intimate with a warm, cinnamon-toned paint, contrasted with deep chocolate accents of wood and paint on the exposed ceiling, which in the days of Sar’s, had been a suspended T-Bar acoustical ceiling.

And the ceiling isn’t the only way the couple have modified the feeling of the space: there’s also a side dining area, separated by gorgeous iron work, the eave façade, and opulent fabrics and a step up; from the tile, the surface changes to a warm wood with a tile accent.

The kitchen is also a spacious and clean thing of beauty; Yean and Ng have completely modified that, as well.

Right now, they say they’re awaiting permits for alcohol, and finalizing menu details. They say it’ll be similar to the menu at their Fircrest location. 

All I can say is, satay, yay!  Bring… it…on! â€" Jessica Corey-Butler