:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49189737/eatersea0316_spirit_and_animal_bar_logo_version_2.0.0.jpg){kind=logo}
Following an announcement last week that Westward sous chef Thomas Litrenta would take over the kitchen and rework the menu at Ernest Loves Agnes, Eater has learned that the restaurant's former chef, Mac Jarvis, will take charge at Spirit and Animal, opening on Capitol Hill within the next month or so.
Known as Spirit Animal last fall when it was revealed to be taking over The Byzantion's home at 601 Broadway E, the new restaurant and bar changed its name in February due to feedback from the community and First Nation organizations about the cultural appropriation of the term "spirit animal," according to a series of posts on Facebook. To their credit, co-owners Paul Berryman and Izzy Guymon seem to have handled the situation respectfully, rather than defensively.
Although we never intended to offend or hurt anyone, it has come to our attention that using the name "Spirit Animal"...
Posted by Spirit and Animal Bar on Monday, February 8, 2016
As far as food at the restaurant, expect small plates inspired by Levant cuisine, including flavors from Turkey, Israel, and more, with Jarvis finalizing the menu over the coming weeks.
