The Sauce loves to meet new neighbors, and last week we got to know Sherman Oaks resident Theo Mavro, new owner of The Sherman (with business partner/mixologist Phil Felton)—moving into the former Tipple & Brine restaurant space formerly owned by Richard DiSisto. Theo contacted us to share the details.

The Sherman kicks off a few “soft opening” days with a Monday neighborhood night. On Thursday The Sherman will serve a special St. Paddy’s Day menu including traditional dishes like shepherd’s pie and corned beef hash, as well as some with an LA multicultural twist (spicy edamame, Irish nachos). Friday's official opening launches the regular menu.

Executive chef Jason Francisco plans to serve “American-ish” food—that is, American comfort food that borrows from European, Asian, African and Caribbean cuisine. The Sherman touts itself as an upscale eatery using sustainable ingredients and offering fine wines and craft cocktails. OK, how is that different from the rest of the newish gastropubs lining the Boulevard?

Theo cites two things distinctive to The Sherman: family hours with a kids menu until 8 p.m. (bedtime for his own young children) and a taste of local history. The name honors Moses Hazeltine Sherman, a founder of the Los Angeles streetcar systems that would become part of the Los Angeles Railway. Expect historical art inside.

It will be “almost fine dining at regular pricing,” Theo tells us. “I kind of figured The Sherman would be the perfect place for the Sherman Oaks crowd to hang out. I love Sherman Oaks, and all the people who live around here love it too.”

Note: The partners do not own the other former DiSisto restaurant on the block, Downtown Johnny’s (14649 Ventura Blvd.) A sign on that building, currently under construction, tells us it will re-open as City Sports Lounge.

Menu offerings may include lobster and mango ceviche and maple and blood orange glazed porchetta.

The Sherman, 14633 Ventura Blvd., 818-485-2200