The Wilfred, a timeless speakeasy bar created by Ryan Oruch, co-owner and chef of Plano’s Sea Breeze Fish Market and Grill, has recently opened its doors. The restaurant can be described as a cozy neighborhood cocktail lounge with a speakeasy vibe. This new establishment enriches the Plano area with its unique offerings. Guests enter through the waiting room of the Sea Breeze Fish Market & Grill.
Visitors can unwind in the cozy space adorned with plush banquettes, comfortable couches, elegant chandeliers, and a meticulously designed bar. The speakeasy is open to everyone, and those interested can access it by using the keypad in Sea Breeze’s adjacent waiting area. The passcode, updated regularly, can be obtained through the bar’s social media or on receipts from Sea Breeze. If you ask politely, Oruch will likely share the code.
The Freddy shot pays homage to Oruch’s 11-year-old rescue dog and the bar’s namesake, Wilfred. The cute mutt, once on the last-call list at the shelter, was saved by Oruch and given the name William Frederick.
The Wilfred’s cocktail program, featuring pre-Prohibition cocktails, was crafted by Oruch with the help of notable Dallas mixologists like Ryan Payne from Tiny Victories and Gabe Sanchez, the cocktail maestro from Midnight Rambler. These drinks beautifully complement the character of the bar. Additionally, the bar offers a curated selection of bottles and by-the-glass options, highlighting exquisite reds and whites from Champagne and various regions of France.
The drink menu is a mix of classics like Manhattans, mint juleps, and negronis, as well as adventurous options like the Bubblz & Berriez, a delightful concoction of strawberry-infused vodka, lemon, honey, and prosecco. The Dogfather, named in honor of Oruch, is a flavorful blend of Japanese whisky, amaretto, and lemon. The most opulent option is a $23 cocktail made with vodka, truffle oil washed gin, and Lillet Blanc.
The culinary offerings at The Wilfred focus on small plates, featuring delicious choices like caviar bumps, pastrami-cured salmon bites, tuna tartare, and lobster fried rice. Meat enthusiasts can savor ribs coated in a rich marinade, accompanied by Thai peppers and thinly sliced radishes. Asian sticky ribs are also available as tapas-style plates, and lobster is a hit on the menu as well.
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A portion of each sale—$1—will be directed to different beneficiaries each quarter. The restaurant is committed to giving back to nonprofits that resonate with the guests, particularly those supporting animals. The initial donation was made to the Team Izzy Foundation, an organization dedicated to raising awareness for individuals impacted by childhood cancer, named after the granddaughter of a loyal Sea Breeze customer.
Guests will enjoy an eclectic musical playlist, helping to create a relaxed and inviting ambiance. The establishment will feature lively live music by local artists on some nights during the week. The Wilfred provides a venue for corporate gatherings, personalized dinners, and memorable occasions like cocktail pairings.
Vitals
- The Wilfred
- 4017 Preston Road, Suite 530, Plano, 75093
- Hours: From 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and closed Sundays and Mondays
Map to The Wilfred
Featured image by Pexels.com.
