From the get-go, Jeff Smalley was all about transparency and wanting to be a good neighbor, going out of his way to communicate with residents and the neighborhood association on plans to open a restaurant/pub on the corner of Fremont and 37th, where Wilshire Market and a pharmacy had once stood. Calmly and reassuringly fielding questions and concerns at a BWNA general meeting a few years ago, Smalley vowed to build an eating/drinking establishment that the community could take pride in—family friendly, residentially responsible, architecturally creative, neighborhood compatible in terms of scale—this became Fire and Stone. Jeff also was a regular advertiser with this newsletter and generously donated delectable dishes for BWNA events, like Taste of Beaumont, and even occasionally for BWNA board meetings! All of which made it both shocking and sad when we learned that Fire and Stone would be closing its doors for good in February. Businesses come and go, but this one was truly special to many residents.
Chef Smalley put his heart and soul into the design and operation of the 80-seat Fire and Stone. It was his first restaurant project, and admittedly an ambitious one. While failure to succeed has been understandably disappointing and emotionally stressful for Jeff, he maintains a glass-half-full perspective, “I have some specific regrets, but I’m still proud of our overall effort here.” Equally appreciative of the neighborhood patrons who frequented Fire and Stone, he’s particularly grateful for the good friends made along the way, “My message is really just a big ‘thank you.’ I’ve met many amazing people with which I hope to have ongoing relationships. Lots of great families, kids, teachers, elderly folks, PTA members, sports teams, vendors, and just plain old friends will be part of my life going forward because of my time in this restaurant.” Retaining his humor, Jeff adds, “My wife and kids still love me.”
Chef Smalley is taking time off from the culinary business world to spend time with family and serve as president of the Little League where one of his sons plays ball.
As for the property, the search continues for a buyer, hopefully a restaurateur.
BWNA thanks Jeff for his many positive contributions to our neighborhood and local community over the years.