MARTINI MODERN ITALIAN TO DEBUT IN COLUMBUS
Former Martini Italian Bistro in the Short North to close Sept. 28; new concept to open in same space Oct. 15

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Cameron Mitchell Restaurants’ (CMR) is introducing an exciting new restaurant to central Ohio guests.  Martini Modern Italian, to be located in the Short North Arts District, will open on Oct. 15, 2008.  Although the restaurant will be in the space once occupied by Martini Italian Bistro, Martini Modern Italian is an entirely new concept with a fresh menu, an urban setting and a new attitude.
 
“Martini Modern Italian will be a high-energy restaurant, and we are excited to bring it to guests across central Ohio,” said Cameron Mitchell, CMR founder and president.  “The introduction of Martini Modern Italian is during the month of the 15th anniversary of our company.  We wanted to bring a fresh, new concept to the area to mark the anniversary and thank the community and our longtime guests for their unparalleled support of our company as it has grown.” 

Mitchell said the restaurant’s opening will be almost 15 years to the day after CMR was founded in 1993, and when the company’s original restaurant, Cameron’s American Bistro, opened in Linworth, Ohio.  Martini Italian Bistro opened in 1996 and was the fourth restaurant opened by CMR. 

Since its founding, CMR has opened more than 40 restaurants in 11 states and last year completed a $92 million sale of its Fish Market and steakhouse concepts.  Today, the company has 12 restaurants under seven different concepts.  Nine of those restaurants are in central Ohio.

The interior of Martini Modern Italian will be dramatically from the current space.  The atmosphere will be modern, clean and urban, featuring dark woods, white leather and unique lighting.  Candlelight will be used extensively, and stainless steel accents will complete the mood.

In addition to its lively urban setting, Martini Modern Italian will feature timeless Italian technique and innovative culinary presentations, incorporating only the freshest ingredients.  Pastas will be made fresh daily and cooked to order.

The new menu, designed by CMR’s passionate chefs, will feature Italian favorites and handcrafted cocktails. Some items on the new menu include antipasto, fresh calimari, brick oven pizzetta, osso bucco, Veal Martini and chicken carbonara.  Guests also can enjoy a variety of handcrafted, specialty drinks including Italian Grapefruit Gimlet and Short North Tea.

The grand opening of Martini Modern Italian is set for Oct. 15.  The restaurant, located at 445 North High Street, will be open daily for dinner only and will no longer be open for lunch.  For more information or to make an online reservation, visit www.cameronmitchell.com.