The Conserva Brings Za’atar-Rubbed Octopus to Ferndale on Saturday

After almost a month’s worth of soft openings, long-anticipated Ferndale eatery The Conserva debuts this Saturday, December 10. Restaurant goers may find the space familiar — it’s filled the former Torino space on Nine Mile. The establishment has undergone a few subtle changes including updating the art.

Dinner Club Pop-Up chef Matthew Baldridge is behind the restaurant, which was initially conceived as a Spanish-style cafe offering house-preserved terrines of meats, fish, cheeses, and other spreads. However, after conversations with the health department Baldridge has refocused on more traditional plates like the savory za’atar-rubbed octopus and braised oxtail. Some specialty preserves such as sardines can be found on The Conserva’s “snacks” menu. Jarrod Kassis is heading up the bar program, which will offer a shortlist of craft cocktails as well as wines and beers selected to pair with Baldridge’s dishes.

“Our goal is to source the best ingredients, handle them with care, and present them in a manner that’s delicious, fresh and exciting,” Baldridge says in a release. Scope out the menus below:

The Conserva is located at 201 E. 9 Mile; the grand opening will be held from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. on December 10. Permanent business hours are 5 p.m. to midnight Wednesday through Saturday.

• The Conserva Is Quietly Hosting Previews in Ferndale [ED]

• Chef Matt Baldridge Cooking Up Two Restaurant Concepts in Metro Detroit [ED]

• Forthcoming Ferndale Eatery The Conserva Relocates to Torino Space [ED]

• All The Conserva Coverage [ED]