ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Nob Hill Bar & Grill, a new venture by owner Matthew Ludeman in partnership with Ambrozia Café's Chef Sam Etheridge, is set to open in early 2008 at 3128 Central Avenue in Albuquerque’s Nob Hill area. The restaurant will occupy the space that formerly housed popular local eateries Graze and Kanome. The concept of the establishment is to serve upscale takes on classic American dishes as well as bar food favorites. "Our idea was to create a place where everyone feels welcome to come as they are, but can also expect top-notch food, service and interesting twists on the staples you might find at a neighborhood bar, pub or steakhouse," says Ludeman, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America with more than ten years of industry experience. "Sam's take on this concept is very fresh. You’ll get hungry just reading his menu."
Etheridge, a well-known chef in the region, has been hard at work refining the new restaurant’s offerings. "This opportunity with Nob Hill gives me the chance to prepare food that wouldn't quite fit the Ambrozia menu," explains Etheridge. "As a chef, I’m very excited for people to experience this cuisine."
The restaurant space is currently undergoing a complete renovation. Remodeling plans include joining the bar area formerly known as Gulp with the restaurant space to create a continuously flowing environment. The new restaurant will have full bar service and a comprehensive wine list.
"Basically, we’ll be little bit upscale, and a little bit of a joint," explains Ludeman, who has been very involved in the design of the space. "We're going to create an atmosphere that's warm and inviting, not stuffy or overbearing. We want Nob Hill Bar & Grill to be a destination for a fantastic meal with friends and business associates, or just a place to hang out and have a beer, even watch a game."
The restaurant’s menu will feature time-honored bar and comfort foods, but with a gourmet interpretation. "As an example, we'll serve a course such as Fish and Chips, but it will consist of ginger-lime tempura fried ahi tuna served with sweet potato French fries," explains Etheridge. When the restaurant opens in early 2008, guests will enjoy extraordinary service, inspiring cuisine and an energetic atmosphere. "Sam and I are thrilled to be a part of the Nob Hill community and Albuquerque's growing and diverse restaurant scene," says Ludeman. "We look forward to opening our doors as soon as possible."
About Nob Hill Bar & Grill:
Owned by Matthew Ludeman in partnership with Chef Sam Etheridge, Nob Hill Bar & Grill offers classic American and bar food favorites served with an upscale, gourmet twist. The restaurant, set to open in early 2008, is located in Albuquerque’s Nob Hill at 3128 Central Ave. SE. Full bar service and a wine list will be available. Website: www.upscalejoint.com. Phone: 505.266.4455.