Metropolitan Closes
I got choked up a bit when I heard the news that Metropolitan restaurant was permanently closing, which it did Aug. 12. We’ve been through a lot together in the 16 years since owner Karen Olson’s brother, Christophe, originally opened the eatery. “I went to Michigan to meet with my family and we decided to sell the restaurant,” said Karen. “We thought about rebranding and trying some new concepts, but finally decided to sell.”
Through the years, Metropolitan has set the standard here for innovative, contemporary American cuisine and unmatchable service. And, it won countless awards and accolades honoring the restaurant’s excellence. Karen Olson was also responsible for launching the popular Downtown Dine O’ Round, and was an early supporter of Taste of the Nation Utah. I’m never happy to see a restaurant close, because it usually means the end of somebody’s dream. The Olson family dreamed big when they opened Metropolitan; in 1995, it was unlike anything we’d ever seen in Utah. But, any restaurant that lasts for 16 years can only be considered a total success. That is quite a run, and it was sure fun while it lasted. I will miss Metropolitan dearly, and I wish Karen, Christophe and the Olson family all the best, wherever their new ventures take them.
Beehive Bonanza
Congrats to the folks at Beehive Cheese Company, who captured two first-place and two third-place ribbons at the American Cheese Society’s annual competition in Montreal, earlier this month. Among the wins: Barely Buzzed placed first in the flavored cheddar category, and Promontory Cheddar won first for cheddar aged under a year. Big John’s Cajun Rubbed Cheddar and SeaHive Cheddar took home third-place honors. (BeehiveCheese.com)
Oasis Epic
On Tuesday, Aug. 30, Oasis Cafe (151 S. 500 East) will team up with Epic Brewing for a “small plates” dinner paired with 5-ounce samples of Epic brews. The dinner kicks off at 6:30 p.m. and will cost $28 for the menu tasting, plus $20 for the optional beer pairings. Epic Brewmaster Kevin Crompton will be on hand. Phone 801-322-0404 for reservations.
Quote of the week: Food is a weapon. —Maksim Litvinov
