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Melrose hangout YumBar celebrates first anniversary, announces new name

Located at The Royale, this restaurant and bar is celebrating its birthday with a party, new menu items and a new name.
Image: YumBar cocktails.
As YumBar celebrates one year in business, it's getting a new name. Meet Royale Kitchen + Cocktails. Tirion Boan
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One year ago, an old auto body shop on Seventh Avenue emerged from its cocoon of wire fences and construction materials as a bright, neighborhood destination filled with local businesses and midcentury modern flair. Among a coffee shop, florist, photo studio and backyard hangout, the Royale's anchor is YumBar.

The restaurant and bar's colorful murals swirl around the walls and are reflected in the pink and orange cocktails. Across from the entryway, a bright green-walled outdoor patio is filled with pink metal flamingos and whirling fans.

click to enlarge YumBar patio.
New design elements will make the space a little more cozy. But fun spots such as the "Flamingo Room" will remain.
Tirion Boan
One year after making its debut, the concept is set to evolve again.

Owners Mark Howard and Rocco Menaguale are rebranding YumBar as Royale Kitchen + Cocktails. The new name is designed to convey the concept's food focus and is paired with the unveiling of new dishes.

“The new name better reflects our focus as a neighborhood restaurant serving a large variety of metropolitan cuisine from our culinary team led by Chef Jeff Blake,” Howard said in a news release. “New selections and reimagined favorites, along with our expanded martini, wine and craft cocktail menus, offer our guests an exceptional dining experience seven days a week.”

click to enlarge
Some favorites from the original menu, such as the Yum Burger, will continue to be served alongside new items.
Tirion Boan
Favorites such as the Yum Burger, the Jalapeno Popper Sandwich and the Mark Daddy martini will remain on the menu, alongside new items. The kitchen team has added options including the Peachy Keen Chicken Sandwich, That Shrimp Coconut Curry and, at brunch, a BLT Eggs Benedict.

These changes will be celebrated at The Royale's one-year anniversary party on Feb. 8. Taking place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the event will include live performances, a live art exhibit, food and drink specials and giveaways.

“Our vision for The Royale was to blend midcentury modern style with an inclusive atmosphere, transforming what was once dilapidated autobody garages surrounding a junkyard into a vibrant center for connection, creativity and joy,” Menaguale said in the release. “We wanted to create a space that reflects the Melrose neighborhood’s character and brings people together."

The Royale and Royale Kitchen + Cocktails

635 W. Glenrosa Ave.