NEW IN TOWN: Mediterra

Twelve days ago, we caught wind that Broad Ripple’s Midtown Grill had abruptly shuttered. We thought the space was a goner—as we’ve seen it experience several revamps since 1995. We did a little digging and found out that the 26-year-old Midtown Grill will reopen this Thursday as Mediterra (815 E. Westfield Blvd, 317-253-1141).

Back in December 2011, long-time employee Oussama Nahas purchased the restaurant from Hamada Ibrahim. Nahas had spent 17 years in both the front and back of the house, and was ready to give it his touches. The changes won’t happen all at once, but in the next few months we should expect smaller plates, new Mediterranean-inspired hues, fresh artwork, and more entertainment.

On the restaurant side, Naha has asked Midtown Grill’s former executive chef Ryan Borchelt to consult on the menu. Upon first glance, the menu looks the same. But Naha says diners should expect additions such as flatbreads, Grecian Meatballs, PEI mussels, and the pepper-onion-tomato relish peperonata. On the lounge side, Nahas is planning jazz bands, bourbon nights, and new DJs.