Pearl at Longshore, which is taking over space occupied for 19 years by Splash Restaurant at the Inn at Longshore before abruptly closing in October 2014, will open in February, its owners announced today.
An announcement said the opening follows “an extensive restoration and revitalization under the vision of owners Marc Backon, Antonio Ninivaggi and a group of local investors.”
It said the restaurant would feature “sophisticated, seasonally inspired, American cuisine” under Michael Hazen, executive chef, “who will create a menu of delicious, healthy meals that reflect the seasons and focus on the simplicity and flavors of the ingredients.”
It said his menu would include seafood dishes, grass-fed beef and fresh, seasonal produce with a variety of organic, healthy and gluten-free selections.
“We are thrilled for the community to open a restaurant in Longshore and see our vision for Pearl at Longshore come to life,” said Backon, a 20-plus year Westport resident with a background in healthcare and business ventures
“Guests will experience what is truly, uniquely Pearl,” said Ninivaggi, who took over Fairfield’s Osianna Mediterranean Taverna in January and is a former general manager of Tarantino Restaurant in Westport and Barcelona in Stamford.
Designer Bilal Barakat “has captured the spirit and history of Longshore and infused it with a rustic chic and cosmopolitan feel,” the announcement said.
“Pearl’s unique features and amenities will also include ‘Pearl in a Box’, a takeout fare menu, and a new level of customer-centric hospitality whether guests arrive by car, golf cart or foot,” it added.
Pearl at Longshore will be open every day year-round for lunch, dinner and late evening cocktails “with a lite fare,” the announcement said.
It suggested visiting http://www.pearlatlongshore.com to learn more about the restaurant and for information about employment opportunities.
The announced opening date is two months later than the mid-December date talked about when the Board of Selectmen approved the sub-tenant in May. (See WestportNow May 27, 2015)
