aking over the old Adesso spot on the popular corner of 1st Avenue and Yew Street, is the somewhat controversial Karv Restaurant. Labeling themselves as a Southern Californian casual joint, they have done some minor renovations on the site to give it a modern vibe and quick turnaround - the place opened within weeks of announcing its conquest.

With a few passive protests over noise in the 'hood (cryptic notes on the door to "boycott this place" due to late night noise issues), the Kits neighbourhood indeed seems to be happily flocking to this laid-back hangout, soaking up the sun on the large street-facing patio. The laid-back resto-bar comes with the aforementioned noise; sorry protesters, it is just the nature of the beast.

Kits residents Bobby Elliot, John Carroll and Chris Hanma seem to have a winning number here. Taking the surf-style concept bar/restaurant, with the relaxed flavour and blasé attitudes, and concocting a space full of trendy hipsters, where you can meet a room full of young people who would rather be at the beach playing Frisbee than sitting on the coach eating chips.

The interior has been upgraded a tad, as the décor is slightly darker and sleeker than when it was Adesso, creating more of a club feel than a daytime restaurant. The outdoor patio is prime seating, where hot bodies are guaranteed to strut by on their way to the beach. The friendly service and comfy mood make for a quick summer drink or a relaxing night out. An oddly eclectic mix of beats is played at a level amenable to conversation, should you plan to sit and chat.

The menu consists of some interesting dishes, but nothing highly imaginative. Your average pub grub staples like Fish Tacos, Tiki Wings, and Chicken Fingers with a Macadamia Nut glaze and Coconut Prawns all clock in under a reasonable 15 bucks. The microbrews, draft, wine and cocktails were nicely picked and more than affordable. The Veggie Burger that I tried was fantastic as were the Noodle Balls, which might secure a return trip back.