So long, ChocoChicken. We barely remember your weirdness. 

In place of the bizarre and short-lived chocolate-flavored-chicken restaurant comes Barcito, an Argentine small-plates restaurant that opens tonight downtown. 

Owned and managed by longtime hospitality veteran Andrea Borgen (her past experience includes management roles at the Flintridge Proper and New York City's Blue Smoke), the restaurant is inspired by Borgen's family trips to Buenos Aires. She's brought on chef Chuck Abair (who has spent time in the kitchens of the Water Grill and Providence) to help interpret her vision.

Picadas, or finger foods, include chicken liver mousse on toasted baguette with house-pickled crudité, and Provoleta seared goat cheese with charred lemon and crunchy bread. Heavier plates include plancha dishes from the griddle: langostinos with smoked chili-garlic shrimp, plancha potatoes and remoulade; and asado-braised short rib with sunburst squash and chimichurri.

The drinks program will feature beer, wine and cocktails on draft. Speaking of which, for the opening celebration this evening, Barcito will be giving away free beer and draft cocktails from 5 to 6 p.m. Mighty neighborly of them. 

Barcito: 403 W. 12th St., downtown. (213) 415 1821. barcitola.com. 

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