Profile

The name might bring to mind a horror movie about zombie chefs, but it's actually the title of a sixties jazz record by Freddie Hubbard and Lee Morgan. Photos of other black icons, including Cassius Clay and Dizzy Gillespie, line the walls of the large, warmly lit space. Fittingly, live jazz adds extra flavor to the restaurant Thursday through Sunday, and unfortunately, the menu could use the boost. Cuisine types get jammed together with little regard for fusion. Starters lean toward pub grub with greasy catfish fingers and tepid wings. Classic Southern entrees like bourbon chicken, blackened catfish and barbecue get rote renditions, with ribs a particular, curiously shrunken disappointment. The kitchen also serves a few Mexican dishes (ominously, accompanied by brown rice) and a pasta list so ordinary, you might as well be at The Olive Garden. The lively bar scene, friendly staff, and soulful music have helped cultivate a following, but this night is hindered by a case of too many cookers in the kitchen and not enough cooking. — Justin Hartung