Renderings Released for Restaurant Space at Union Lofts
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES — 
The Valencia Group put out a press release today touting the restaurant they're prepping to open in the Union Lofts building at 8th and Hill. The rendering of the space (included in the release and also found on their website looks great.
I keep scratching my head, though, on the company behind the space. Back in July a release highlighted the involvement of "acclaimed restaurateur John Valencia." Today's release instead cites his "more than 18 years of experience in hospitality and customer service." I believe it also breaks ground in the nicknamed bartender space, saying that "Bar Manager Andrew 'the Alchemist' Willett" will be crafting "signature cocktails."
As a quick recap, the space includes 6,000 feet on the ground floor and a 5,000 foot basement with bank vault.
Rich Alossi on January 15, 2008, at 01:46PM – #1
Their publicist told me that he spent 18 years in the restaurant supply industry and that this is his first venture, which makes me wonder why he was described as an "acclaimed restaurateur" in previous releases.
Either way, his family is in the restaurant biz, so I hope this will be a solid venture.