Today, Berkeley watering hole Kip’s Bar (est. 1954) will commence serving dinner, courtesy of consulting chef Jon Helquist, who’s worked at places like Oliveto, Chez Panisse and Manzanita. This weekend, they’ll roll out brunch/lunch as well. It’s the culmination of a bunch of recent changes at the upstairs bar, including a quick interior revamp courtesy of Jim Maxwell of Architects II.

There’s more on the way, too. Kip’s is taking over the Chinese restaurant on the street level, and will turn it into a full-service restaurant named Kip’s Eats. Maxwell will design the downstairs expansion, too, which will include a beer bar and a large private party room. The remodel is expected to be complete this fall.

Kip’s: 2439 Durant Ave., near Telegraph, Berkeley; (510) 848-4340 or kipsberkeley.com