Sprout chef Dale Levitski celebrated his 40th birthday during a surprise party on Monday. (Photo: 312 Dining Diva)
Let's get on with it: Bring on spring.
• Dale Levitski (Frog N Snail, Sprout) is experiencing an especially busy season. The former "Top Chef" finalist turns 40 today (April 3), celebrates the first anniversary for Frog N Snail on April 5, and recently transformed the menu over at Sprout. Levitski has been spending much of his time lately at Sprout, where he's turned the menu into a multi-course, prix-fixe experience for $65 per person (an extra $35 with wine pairings). The menu is seasonal with the signature, whimsical accents that originally put Levitski in the spotlight. There's a lot of game on the menu (think foie gras, rabbit, exotic fishes), but also a few inventive preparations with vegetables. And to continue the celebration of his 40th bday—and Frog N Snail's anniversary—Levitski's special event takes place on April 5 where diners get to "choose their own adventure" for $40. They'll get an appetizer, entree, dessert and complimentary glass of bubbly.
• David Morton and Michael Kornick (Ada St., DMK Burger Bar, FishBar) are moving fast with their plans for a chef-driven BBQ joint in Little Italy. The name for the project is County and it takes over the space formerly occupied by the iconic Italian eatery Gennaro's. MK Executive Chef Erick Williams will oversee the menu. Look for items such as Texas-style brisket, smoked lamb shanks, veal breasts, Kansas City-style spare ribs and a daily signature cocktail when the restaurant opens later this year.