I have a very exciting announcement to make…. Ariana’s is moving!!!
After 6 plus years at the farm, I have decided to pull up our roots and transplant them at The Lyme Inn!
First, a huge Thank You! to Chris Bunten and Bruce Balch for giving me the opportunity to fulfill my lifelong dream of opening my own restaurant, a very proud moment. A part of my soul will always live on at the farm. Over the years, we have watched the beauty and struggle of living on the farm; the birth of life and tragedy of death, the seasons passing through the windows, a better understanding of what it is like to live closer to our Mother Earth. This can never be replaced, nor can the open kitchen.
This has not been an easy decision, and I know that some will be disappointed, however I hope that you will support it. The farm, always busy in the summer, has been a burden in the winter. Located down a long dark road which many would not travel in those months, all that I earned would be returned. So, when this opportunity came up, I accepted. It has allowed me to sign a long-term lease and give me some peace, knowing I can continue to enjoy cooking great food for all of you for a very long time to come. At this stage of my life, I need this security.
The Inn is a larger space and, I know from experience, this may cause concern. I have been in this industry for forty years and have been a partner in three previous operations, so I have the experience not to destroy what I have created, but to enhance it. I will continue to serve fun, creative food. For those that know me well, I can never just keep doing the same ole same ole. The Inn will allow me the opportunity to be really creative, ultimately creating two different dining experiences focused on one thing; the quality, flavor, balance and perceived value of my dishes. This, however, will not happen overnight.
We will open Ariana’s Restaurant at The Lyme Inn in mid-January and will, initially, offer the current menu in both rooms, operating the Tavern room with fewer tables and the Terrace room with limited reservations. We will gradually grow into the space. For both rooms, reservations will continue to be highly recommended, however space for walk-ins will be available in the Tavern, at the bar and high-top tables. We will be open 5 nights, Thursday thru Monday, with service beginning at 5pm.
After we move, you will see many familiar faces from both Ariana’s and The Lyme Inn, working together to maintain the friendly, welcoming environment that Ariana’s is known for. I will also continue to come out and ‘make the rounds’ throughout the evening. (This is something that I enjoy very much!)
I am very excited about this partnership with The Lyme Inn. I thank you all for your support and look forward to the future with all of you as a part of it. This is all about fun with food, wine, and life with family and friends!
Be well,
Chef Martin