Press release
Lovers of Italian food can now experience the incredible variety of ingredients, dishes, and regionals cuisines that have made Italy one of the world’s most sought after culinary destinations by visiting Joseph Richard Group’s newest offering, The Italian Osteria & Cheesebar, which opens to the public in Walnut Grove (Langley) on Monday, March 19 at 5 pm.
The 180-seat restaurant is the first Italian concept restaurant for JRG, whose other establishments include 14 public houses and three S+L Kitchen & Bar restaurants. The menu was designed by JRG Director of Culinary Operations Matthew Stowe (Top Chef Canada winner) and the JRG Culinary team comprised of Executive Chef Andy Slinn, Corporate Chef David Jorge (MasterChef Canada winner) as well as the Chef of The Italian, Jason Harper.
The Italian theme is one that has always been on the radar for JRG, with individual dishes like handmade ravioli, creamy risotto and San Marzano tomato soup featured on current menus at other JRG establishments. At The Italian Osteria & Cheesebar, the flavours of Italy will be the star attraction.
“In Italy, sharing food and drink and bonding with extended family is a centuries-old tradition, and that idea of bringing family and friends together to share great dishes is what we’re all about at our establishments too,” says JRG CEO and co-founder Ryan Moreno.
From creative pizzas, handmade pastas and sauces to refined desserts to finish a meal, The Italian Osteria & Cheesebar will explore the full range of culinary experiences that Italy has to offer. An exciting new adventure for foodies will be the restaurant’s cheese bar, which will provide new ways to try some of the favourite and lesser known cheeses of Italy, where 450 different types of cheeses are produced. The concept will also feature a community wine table that will allow guests to try select premium wines normally only available by the bottle, by the glass on a rotating feature wine menu.
“Not only is Italian food one of the most comforting and universally loved cuisines in the world, but the fish, fruit, and vegetables that make up the Mediterranean diet also make it one of the healthiest in the world,” says Chef Stowe.
The Italian Osteria & Cheesebar is located at 20330 88th Ave in Langley, in the former location of JRG’s Oak & Thorne Public House, which has moved across the street to 20173 88th Ave. The restaurant will be open seven days a week for dinner only (5pm to midnight), with plans to open for lunch within the first few months. For reservations or more information, visit http://www.jrg.ca/establishment/italian-osteria-cheese-bar/
About Joseph Richard Group
The Joseph Richard Group (JRG), is one of British Columbia’s fastest growing food, beverage and entertainment organizations. Founded in 2002, JRG is one of British Columbia’s fastest growing food, beverage and entertainment organizations, with 21 public houses, restaurants and liquor retail outlets in BC and Alberta. For more information, visit www.jrg.ca.
