The Walrus is getting a new look in Columbia.

Now under the creative direction of Chef Ashish Alfred, known for his national television appearances and innovative approach to food, the relaunched restaurant is being transformed from a neighborhood pub into a must-visit spot, featuring flavors from America’s most iconic coastlines, according to a news release.

The restaurateur said his restaurant group, Alfred Hospitality LLC, did not take over the restaurant, but he was hired on as a consultant. Alfred Hospitality LLC is not open currently.

In June, the chef and restaurateur cited concerns about safety in Baltimore’s Fells Point as the reason for his decision to temporarily close Duck Duck Goose, Osteria Pirata and Anchor Tavern.

The restaurateur acknowledged other financial challenges at the time, saying he’s had “some trouble paying vendors.” Court records show an $8,000 lien recorded against Alfred last year in Montgomery County and a 2022 lien judgment against Duck Duck Goose in Baltimore City for $31,000. Jessup-based specialty foods distributor Baldor DC LLC sued Alfred Restaurant Group in April.

No Way Rosé, the Federal Hill restaurant, shuttered last July after about a year in business. The original location of Duck Duck Goose in Bethesda has closed, too.

Nestled between Chicken + Whiskey and P.F. Chang’s at The Mall in Columbia, The Walrus features a revamped menu bringing together dishes inspired by New England, the Gulf Coast and Maryland’s own Chesapeake Bay offering crab cakes, pan-seared scallops and spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo, according to the release.

Alfred, was recently named one of FSR Magazine’s 2024 40 Under 40 and has been featured on Food Network’s “Chopped,” “Cutthroat Kitchen” and “Bar Rescue.” He aims to turn the restaurant into a culinary hotspot, according to the release.Alfred said the new dishes have enhanced the restaurant’s menu.

“The palate in Columbia is becoming more and more elevated with all of these great restaurateurs coming to Columbia,” he said. “[The Walrus] always had a seafood menu, but it didn’t have a lot of direction and I worked with the team to give [diners] nicer options.”

Alfred said he hopes the updates to the restaurant improve the dining experience at The Walrus.

“With the new elevated food and menu, my hope is that people will be coming back to The Walrus, for not only the menu but for the atmosphere of the place,” he said.

The Walrus Oyster and Ale House is located in The Mall in Columbia at 10300 Little Patuxent Parkway.

Reporter Amanda Yeager contributed to this story.

Have a news tip? Contact Allana Haynes at ahaynes@baltsun.com.