In a three-month flurry, the Treadsack team opened as many new restaurants in the Heights. Already known for Down House, D&T Drive Inn and Johnny’s Gold Brick, the prolific group lit up the last quarter with the hip Brit tavern Hunky Dory, helmed by chef Richard Knight; Thai farm-to-table fixture Foreign Correspondents, led by chef PJ Stoops; and Southern charmer Bernadine’s. Built around a 100-year-old oak tree that shades its 80-seat outdoor patio, Hunky Dory looks like an English country house.
Grilled Gulf Fish, Grits, Pickled Shrimp, Roasted Carrots, and Fumet dish from Bernadine’s
Menu highlights include fish and chips tartare, a chocolate mice dessert and whiskey cocktails. Next-door neighbor Bernadine’s shares the same footprint—and emphasis on quality and hospitality. The newcomer has a fully stocked raw bar, a mean Bloody Mary and decadent dishes like New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp toast and duck breast glazed in Dr. Pepper. Meanwhile, about two miles away, Foreign Correspondents whips up standouts like lemongrass-and-tamarind fish soup and sticky rice with lightly salted and grilled mackerel, caramelized shallots and fresh cucumber. “It’s pretty amazing to have all three of the restaurants now open. Exhausting, challenging, yet ultimately very fulfilling,” says Treadsack co-owner Chris Cusack. “There’s nothing like inviting guests into a dining room to serve them for the first time. It’s what I live for.”
