Chef and MasterChef judge Graham Elliot has announced plans to open a new restaurant in Greenwich, Connecticut. The restaurant will be called Primary Food & Drink and, according to the press release below, will "serve contemporary American seasonal cuisine in a refined yet casual atmosphere." The menu will feature "creative spins on well-known classics" (think Caesar Salad and pot roast). There will also be an American-focused wine list along with a roster of classic cocktails. Elliot's director of operations Merlin Verrier is on board as executive chef.
Elliot currently has two other restaurants, both in Chicago: Graham Elliot Bistro and the two Michelin-starred Graham Elliot. (He recently closed his Chicago sandwich shop Grahamwich.) Primary Food & Drink will be Elliot's first restaurant outside of Chicago and also seems to be his first restaurant not to use any portion of his name. Primary Food & Drink is slated to open in Winter 2013. Check out the press release below:
Graham Elliot announces Greenwich restaurant, Primary Food & Drink, opening Winter 2013Elliot to debut select dishes at Greenwich Wine + Food Festival, October 3-5, 2013
Greenwich, CT (October 2, 2013) – Graham Elliot, two-Michelin-starred chef and judge on FOX's "MasterChef," will open Primary Food & Drink in Greenwich, CT, this winter. Elliot's long-standing Director of Operations, Merlin Verrier, will serve as Executive Chef.
The name of the restaurant comes from the dictionary definition of the word primary itself, meaning "first or highest in rank, quality or importance." To that end, Primary Food & Drink's philosophy is guided by three main principles: mastering basic, fundamental cooking techniques; using the highest-quality seasonal elements; and providing the greatest level of service and guest experience.
Primary will serve contemporary American seasonal cuisine in a refined yet casual atmosphere, featuring locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. The menu will showcase Elliot's creative spins on well-known classics like Caesar salad, pot roast, beef stroganoff and buffalo chicken. A selection of classic cocktails and a wine list comprised primarily of American varietals will also be offered.
Elliot is also Chef/Restaurateur of two-Michelin-starred Graham Elliot as well as Graham Elliot Bistro, both in Chicago.