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Marq's in Menlo Bar & Grille opens downtown

by Jane Knoerle

Two pros in the restaurant business, Mark Adams and Gary Maffia, have teamed up to open Marq's in Menlo Bar & Grille at 1143 Crane St. The space, formerly occupied by Siam restaurant, is billed as "a bar, a grille, and a piano."

The restaurant opened on Feb. 24. Its sophisticated decor features dark paneling with warm pink hanging lights over the bar. Pink tablecloths adorn tables in the grille, located in the front of the restaurant.

Marq's will have nightly piano entertainment — jazz, blues and R&B — in the large bar area. The bar menu, created by executive chef Gary Maffia, will be served until 11 p.m. Some of Chef Maffia's creations are lobster spring rolls, Kobe sliders, Russian scallops and foie gras, and lamb lollipops with two sauces.

The grille room is by reservation only. Along with small plates and appetizers, entrees will include Muscovy duck breast, filet mignon, braised short rib, fish grilled or baked en papillote, and other selections. Mr. Adams says the menu is California/international cuisine.

Mark Adams was formerly bartender at Oak City Bar & Grill in downtown Menlo Park. Mr. Maffia, with more than 30 years of restaurant experience, is remembered as the owner of the popular Barbarossa restaurant, 3301 El Camino Real in Redwood City, where Chantilly is now located. He was also the proprietor of Olivio's in Belmont.

Here's a unique feature: Should you have too many cocktails, Marq's will provide complimentary limousine service to see you safely home.

Marq's is open Tuesday through Saturday. Hours are 5 to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 5 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.