Interior Facelift Coming for Nick & Toni's

Nick & Toni’s in East Hampton is turning 25 years old this year, an incredible feat for a restaurant anywhere, and the owners are kicking off a celebration with an interior facelift.

The Mediterranean inspired restaurant will close on Monday to undergo interior renovations that the owners hope will modernize the dining area and bar, while still keeping in line with its classic, yet rustic menu.

The restaurant will be closed for approximately six weeks, with plans to reopen in April.

Mark Smith, the managing partner of the Honest Man Restaurant Group which also owns La Fondita in Amagansett, Rowdy Hall in East Hampton, and Townline BBQ in Sagaponack, said the look for the renovations is somewhat contemporary. "The physical layout of the restaurant will not change but the interior will have a fresh updated look. The menu and philosophy of the restaurant will stay the same. Fresh seasonally influenced Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced products," Smith said.

CCS Architecture has been given the task of overseeing the renovations. Décor elements, such as the floors, tables, seating, lighting, and the bar, are the focus. "Expect a casual elegant ambiance with nods to the signature items in the space such as the mosaic tiled woodburning oven," according to Wordhampton Public Relations, which represents the restaurant.

The owners certainly don't want to mess with success as they celebrate the silver anniversary.

Asked what's the key to staying in the restaurant business for 25 years? Smith answered: "The key to staying open for 25 years is the commitment to a hospitality philosophy that centers around great service; well prepared honest food and making our guests feel welcome."

Nick & Toni fans can get sneak peeks of the renovations at the restaurant's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NickandTonis.