First Look: Turn in Grand Center

Turn, the breakfast and lunch spot from chef-owner David Kirkland, officially opened on May 7 on the first floor of the .ZACK building at 3224 Locust St. in Grand Center.

Turn is a study in minimalism. Cool blues, grays and whites dominate, and tall windows on two sides of the dining room let in plenty of light, giving the space an open airiness. The lofty ceilings enhance the effect. Patrons who used to frequent Plush, the funky coffee house/restaurant/performance venue that used to call the building home, will hardly recognize it.

The name Turn has many meanings. It’s a nod to another of Kirkland’s passions — DJing — as are the classic album covers on the wall and the LP-sized food menus, divided into sides A and B. It also refers to Kirkland’s penchant the new ingredients each season brings and turning tables during service.

Kirkland intends to explore new flavors on the menu, like the arepa, featuring grilled corn cakes, chorizo and salsa verde, and some will recognize a few of Kirkland’s signatures during his tenure as Cafe Osage executive chef.

“A biscuit and gravy variation will follow me everywhere I go,” Kirkland said.

Though it’s only open from breakfast and lunch, there are plenty of adult beverages to choose from, including cocktails, wine and beer. Coffee fans can also indulge in espressos, cold brews and lattes.

Kirkland intends to host a monthly dinner series and possibly host culinary event that coincide with theater productions in the area. Turn is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Here’s a first look at what to expect from the newest restaurant in Grand Center.

Matt Sorrell is a staff writer at Sauce Magazine.