The Yard gastropub celebrates its official “re-grand opening” on November 3 with “Top Chef” contestant Chris “CJ” Jacobson in the kitchen. The fully-hosted November 3 extravaganza is open to the public, lasts from 6 PM – 9 PM and includes seasonally-inspired small plates, live entertainment and hand-crafted specialty cocktails.

Eater LA contributor Yolanda Evans told me about the chef change after she met Jacobson at Ye Olde King’s Head. Sean Norris opened The Yard near Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade in 2008. Jacobson previously worked as a private chef for Arianna Huffington and for restaurants like Axe and Campanile. He’s already in the kitchen.

Recent small plates are highlighted by Crispy Fried Cheese ($9) with bacon ranch and chili fig dipping sauces; Lobster Enchiladas ($14) with roasted walnut-cilantro cream and pico de gallo; and Wild Mushroom Risotto ($12) with Parmesan, Cabernet braised quince and lemon zest. The Yard 8oz House Ground Burger combines ground chuck, short rib and skirt steak, plus Carr Valley Cheddar, grilled onions, 1000 Island, heirloom tomato and shaved iceberg lettuce.

The Yard recruited Andrew Steiner of nearby Andrew’s Cheese Shop to supply the cheese plate, which includes Zamarano, a Spanish sheep’s milk cheese; and Cashel Blue, a buttery cow’s milk cheese.

“Lastly,” you’ll find Chocolate Porter Cake, Ramekin Baked Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookie and an Apple and Pomegranate Galette with Gruyere crust.

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Mixologist Blake Landis is producing cocktails like the “BackYard Lemonade” with basil, lemon, cucumbers, simple syrup, St. Germain and ginger ale.

The Yard features happy hour daily from 5 PM – 7 PM, including $3 beers and $5 margaritas. Tuesdays: The Big Cheese- Four special creations devoted to glorifying melted cheese

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