The longtime Occidental space that housed Hazel restaurant (3782 Bohemian Highway) is set to reopen this spring as a white-tablecloth destination under chef James Millar. The unexpected pairing: Millar, formerly chef de cuisine at the upscale Violetto in Napa Valley, has been tapped by Todd and Erica Kniess, the owners of the fast-growing Acme Burger chain.
“This is a passion project,” said Erica Kniess of the restaurant, which departs sharply from the couple’s burger-focused business. The Kniesses do not plan to oversee daily operations; instead, they remain focused on their five existing fast-casual locations, with additional expansion in Sonoma County under consideration.
Todd Kniess is part of a broader shift among classically trained chefs moving from fine dining into more casual formats. Since opening the original Acme Burger in Cotati in 2019, the couple has expanded to Santa Rosa and Petaluma, building a menu around a $7.65 single burger with optional additions like Point Reyes blue cheese, truffle butter and caramelized onions.
Millar and his wife, Breckin VanRaalte, will lead the new venture, Bohemian Bistro, which will offer prix-fixe menus rooted in French technique with global influences. Current plans include five- and seven-course menus served Thursday through Sunday evenings, along with a Wednesday “locals night” featuring more affordable à la carte options…