Vintage Year Restaurant Celebrates 40 Years of Excellence

March 7, 2024 | Leave a Comment

Montgomery’s beloved dining institution, Vintage Year, is proud to announce its 40th anniversary. Since its establishment in 1984, Vintage Year has been a cherished destination for patrons seeking exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and exceptional dining experiences that delight the senses and create lasting memories. Over the past four decades, The Vintage Year has stood as a symbol of tradition, quality, and community in Montgomery. Through its dedication to culinary and innovation excellence as well as unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, the award-winning restaurant has become a beloved gathering place for families, friends, and food enthusiasts alike.

“We’re proud that Vintage Year holds so many treasured memories across generations,” said current owner Jud Blount. “With pride, we continue the tradition and extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our valued customers. Cheers to 40 years!” 

Vintage Hospitality Group operates the fine-dining flagship restaurant, Vintage Year, Vintage Café, a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store as well as Frenchie’s, a French bistro, all in Montgomery’s historic Old Cloverdale neighborhood. Ravello Ristorante is its hot Italian establishment, along with several private event spaces located downtown. The company also owns the hydroponic farm MGM Greens and Red Bluff Bar, a venue that offers live music, beer, wine and small bites along the scenic Alabama riverfront. Vintage Hospitality Group’s national press accolades include receiving coverage in the New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, Garden & Gun, PBS NewsHour, USA Today, Forbes and Newsweek Magazines.

For interviews, photos, menus, complimentary media tasting or additional information, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Hospitality Group, visit www.vintagehg.com. 

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Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program Welcomes Renowned Chef Gianluca Tolla to Ravello Ristorante

October 20, 2023 | Leave a Comment

The Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program is thrilled to
announce the arrival of Chef Gianluca Tolla, a celebrated culinary maestro from Pietrasanta, Italy. His visit marks an exciting milestone in the program, fostering cultural collaboration and culinary creativity between Montgomery and Pietrasanta. Throughout the next five months, Chef Tolla will take over the helm at Ravello Ristorante offering new flavors while tantalizing taste buds and taking food innovation to the next level. Additionally, he will play host at a series of gastronomic events and experiences curated to delight food enthusiasts and celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Italy at various Vintage Hospitality Group properties. In partnership with the Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program, the events will include a Meet and Greet session, exclusive Chef Dinners, immersive Cooking Classes, and much more, all showcasing Chef Tolla’s exceptional talent and creativity.

“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Gianluca Tolla to Ravello as part of the Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program,” said program President and Vintage Hospitality Group Chef Eric Rivera. “This exchange is a testament to our commitment to fostering cultural exchange and promoting culinary innovation. Chef Tolla’s presence will undoubtedly enrich our local culinary scene and provide an unparalleled experience for our community.”

The Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program invites residents and visitors alike to participate in these extraordinary events and celebrate the union of diverse culinary traditions. For event details, schedules, and ticket information, please visit Ravellomgm.com. 

Event Highlights:
1. Meet and Greet Session: Join us on 10/24 at Ravello Ristorante for a Meet and Greet with Chef Tolla. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with the renowned Italian chef and learn about his culinary journey and inspirations.
2. Chef Dinners: Experience the exquisite flavors of Italian cuisine at the exclusive Chef Tolla’s Dinners. Indulge in a carefully curated menu that showcases the best of both Montgomery and Pietrasanta’s culinary traditions.
3. Cooking Classes: Enhance your culinary skills with hands-on Cooking Classes led by Chef Tolla. Participants will learn the art of crafting authentic Italian dishes under the guidance of the master chef himself.
4. Culinary Workshops and Demonstrations: Explore the nuances of Italian cooking through interactive workshops and live cooking demonstrations. Chef Tolla will share his expertise and passion, providing valuable insights into the world of gourmet cuisine.

The Montgomery Pietrasanta Culinary Exchange Program is a unique initiative aimed at promoting cultural exchange and culinary innovation between Montgomery, Alabama, and Pietrasanta, Italy. By bringing together chefs, culinary experts, and food enthusiasts from both regions, the program seeks to create enriching experiences and foster a deeper appreciation for global cuisine. To donate to the program, click here. 

Vintage Hospitality Group operates the fine-dining flagship restaurant, Vintage Year, Vintage Café, a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store as well as Frenchie’s, a French bistro, all in Montgomery’s historic Old Cloverdale neighborhood. Ravello Ristorante is its hot Italian establishment, along with several private event spaces located downtown. The company also owns the hydroponic farm MGM Greens and Red Bluff Bar, a venue that offers live music, beer, wine and small bites along the scenic Alabama riverfront. Vintage Hospitality Group’s national press accolades include receiving coverage in the New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, Garden & Gun, PBS NewsHour, USA Today, Forbes and Newsweek Magazines. 

For interviews, photos or additional information, please contact Lorrie Dixson Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Hospitality Group, visit www.vintagehg.com. 

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Frenchie’s Now Open in Montgomery, AL’s Cloverdale Neighborhood

June 21, 2023 | Leave a Comment

Frenchie’s, a new French-inspired cocktail bar and bistro, opened on June 13th at 514 B2 Cloverdale Road. Restaurateur Jud Blount and Chef Eric Rivera of Vintage Hospitality Group (Vintage Year, Vintage Cafe, Ravello & Red Bluff Bar) have partnered with Restaurateur Tyler Bell of Il Panificio (Dino’s, El Rey Burrito Lounge & Leroy) to offer a new spot to complement the existing restaurants and bars in the Cloverdale neighborhood. With limited seating, reservations are highly recommended while walk-ins can be accommodated at the bar on a first come, first served basis, and on the patio as weather permits. Currently, the hours are 4:30pm-10pm Monday through Thursday, and 4:30-11 pm on Friday and Saturday, Frenchie’s plans on opening on Sunday later this Summer or in the Fall.

“As Jud and I are lifelong friends who both grew up in Cloverdale, we know that Frenchie’s is a great addition to the neighborhood. It is a perfect place to meet a friend for a drink, have a snack or dinner, read a book at the bar or pop in for a nightcap,” states Bell. “While Frenchie’s menu is small, it covers the bases.”

Snacks such as smoked trout dip, calamari, a cheese plate and French onion dip are featured. Chef Rivera’s versions of classic bistro fare like croque monsieur, moules and steak frites rounds out the larger options. An ode to Birmingham’s Chez Fon Fon’s shrimp remoulade salad is offered and a crème brûlée can be found alongside a puff pastry. The drink menu focuses on classic cocktails and wines from small producers, primarily from France. By the glass options will remain relatively small, with a dozen or so wines available to drink at a time. Both restaurant groups are both well known for their wine collections, so guests can expect a well rounded cellar menu to be offered as the business matures.

Vintage Hospitality Group operates the fine-dining flagship restaurant, Vintage Year, as well as a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store, Vintage Café, in Montgomery’s historic Old Cloverdale neighborhood. Ravello Ristorante is its hot Italian establishment, along with several private event spaces located downtown. The company also owns the hydroponic farm MGM Greens and Red Bluff Bar, a venue that offers live music, beer, wine and small bites along the scenic Alabama riverfront. Vintage Hospitality Group’s national press accolades include receiving coverage in the New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, PBS NewsHour, USA Today, Garden & Gun, Forbes and Newsweek Magazines. 

Tyler Bell began his hospitality career in 1996 with operating Tomatinos Pizza and Cafe Louisa which he later sold in 2005.  A steady line of restaurants and bars followed including El Rey and the Olive Room.  In 2012, he developed the cocktail and beer bar Leroy, as well as L & E Oyster Bar in Los Angeles.  A couple of years later, Bell introduced the Mexican restaurant El Cóndor near the oyster bar.  Bell then opened Gold Line in 2018 with the record label Stones Throw and its founder DJ Peanut Butter Wolf, starting the trend of Japanese style record bars in the US. 

For interviews, photos, media tastings or additional information, please contact Lorrie Dixson Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information on Vintage Hospitality Group, please visit https://www.vintagehg.com.

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Vintage Hospitality Group Expands its State of the Art Hydroponic Farm in Montgomery, Alabama

September 10, 2020 | Leave a Comment

In partnership with Alabama Power, Vintage Hospitality Group recently expanded MGM Greens by adding Freight Farm’s Greenery, a fully climate-controlled hydroponic farm built inside of a compact 320 sq. ft. container. This smart farm is self contained, growing vertically and hydroponically without soil, getting its nutrition from water and light energy from powerful LEDs. Through these climate controlled components, plants can thrive inside the containers offering the capability to harvest fresh produce multiple times a week and grow 365 days a year. This addition lets MGM Greens work within multiple environments to grow additional produce allowing a diverse crop yield for its restaurants, Vintage Cafe and Vintage Year, both 50 feet away. With the Greenery expansion, the group is selling retail and also plans to host its own local neighborhood farmers market on a monthly basis. 

“Purchasing the second Greenery has allowed us to now be able to curate our menu based on new successful crops,” said Vintage Hospitality Group’s Executive Chef Eric Rivera. “It will further maximizing growing potential as it also offers the capability for multiple test crops for upcoming menus at our new restaurant, Ravello.” 

While Vintage Hospitality Group’s flagship restaurant Vintage Year is a fine dining establishment, Vintage Café is a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store. As the group also owns MGM Greens, it will be opening City Fed and Ravello restaurant in 2021. Vintage Hospitality Group’s national press accolades include receiving mentions in the New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, Forbes and Newsweek Magazines. In addition to being named a Smart Catch Leader, Executive Chef Eric Rivera has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation as a winner of its Blended Burger competition. Chef Eric has also led Vintage Year to be named one of OpenTable’s 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America and a Traveler’s Choice winner by Trip Advisor. Vintage Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing guests with the finest culinary selections, premium coffees, specialty teas, outstanding wines and spirits along with unparalleled customer service.

For additional information, interviews, photos or a complimentary media tour, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Hospitality Group, visit www.vintagehospitalitygroup.com. 


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Vintage Year Honored by James Beard Foundation as Smart Catch Leader

April 5, 2019 | Leave a Comment

Vintage Year’s Yellowfin Tuna with black rice and squash blossom salad

Vintage Year restaurant, led by Executive Chef Eric Rivera, was recognized as a 2019 Smart Catch Leader by the James Beard Foundation for its sustainable seafood sourcing. This leading culinary institution’s Smart Catch initiative allows chefs to have an impact on the industry efforts to perpetuate healthy, sustainable food origins. This issue has always been a passion for Chef Rivera as last year he joined fisherman and other chefs from around the Gulf Coast to speak with congressional staff in Washington about key sustainability issues that directly affect the region’s seafood. 

“We understand the importance of responsible food sourcing including sustainable seafood and the finest hand-cut meats for our guests and our community,” said Chef Rivera. “It is a great honor to receive this recognition for the entire culinary team at Vintage Year.”

From the James Beard Awards, which celebrate the heights of culinary excellence, to an array of gastronomic experiences throughout the year around the country, the James Beard Foundation is passionate about making the food world a more delicious place. Smart Catch is an educational sustainable seafood program created by chefs for chefs with the purpose of increasing the sustainability of the seafood supply chain. The idea for Smart Catch is simple and powerful as the program provides training and support to chefs so they can serve seafood fished or farmed in environmentally-responsible ways. By becoming a Smart Catch Leader and earning the Smart Catch seal, chefs give consumers a simple way to identify and support their restaurants.

Recognized with many awards and national press, Vintage Hospitality Group’s team of Proprietor Jud Blount, Executive Chef Eric Rivera, Sous Chef Brian Morrison and General Manager Bryan Trammell has over 50 years of combined experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. While Vintage Hospitality Group’s flagship restaurant Vintage Year is a fine dining establishment, Vintage Café is a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store. Vintage Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing guests with the finest culinary selections, premium coffees, specialty teas, outstanding wines and spirits along with unparalleled customer service.

For additional information, interviews, photos or a complimentary media tasting, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Hospitality Group, visit www.vintagehospitalitygroup.com. 

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Vintage Cafe in Montgomery, Alabama Celebrates One Year Anniversary

February 27, 2019 | Leave a Comment

Located in the heart of Cloverdale, Vintage Cafe has quickly has become a favorite coffee shop and healthy eatery in the neighborhood and beyond after opening its doors just a year ago. Offering specialty coffees, teas and gourmet cuisine from Executive Chef Eric Rivera combined with a welcoming atmosphere and excellent customer service have been key components to its success. Not to mention, the Cafe was recently mentioned in Forbes Magazine as well as in the New York Times last year.

“The overwhelming support and warm welcome from the community and media have been crucial to the success of this venture,” said Proprietor Jud Blount. “In the coming year, we plan to expand Vintage Cafe’s catering services and in house private events. “

Vintage Hospitality Group’s Vintage Café is in the Old Cloverdale neighborhood at 416 Cloverdale Road. The team of Proprietor Jud Blount, Executive Chef Eric Rivera, Sous Chef Amber Bonds and Catering Manager Whitney White has over 50 years of combined experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. While Vintage Hospitality Group’s flagship restaurant Vintage Year is a fine dining establishment, Vintage Café is a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store. Vintage Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing guests with the finest culinary selections, premium coffees, specialty teas, outstanding wines and spirits along with excellent customer service.

For additional information, interviews, photos or a complimentary media tasting, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Cafe, visit www.vintagecafemgm.com. 

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Miura/Clos Pissarra Meet the Winemaker Dinner in Montgomery, AL

February 13, 2019 | Leave a Comment

Vintage Year announces Miura/Clos Pissarra Meet the Winemaker dinner on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at 6:30 PM . The event will feature a four course dinner featuring both old and new world wine pairings with special guest Emmanuel Kemiji M.S., Owner of Miura Vineyards & Managing Director of Clos Pissarra. Cocktail hour starts at 6:30 with dinner at 7:00 pm. The cost is $100 per person plus tax and gratuity. Space is limited and guests need to make reservations by calling 334-819-7215.

Emmanuel Kemiji studied Viticulture and Oenology, expanding his interest in wine and eventually leading to the formation of Miura Vineyards in 1995. Soon to follow were Almvs in 2000, Antiqv2s in 2001 as well as two projects in Spain, Arrels in 2003 and Clos Pissarra in 2005. After acting as the Ritz-Carlton Director of Wine & Spirits, Emmanuel became the twelfth American to pass the Master Sommelier exam in London, and one of only ten to date to pass on his first attempt. Other accolades include “Sommelier of the Year” award by the California Restaurant Writers Association, “Wine Director of the Year” in the Critics Choice Awards, “10 Winemakers to Watch” by the San Francisco Chronicle. Additionally, Emmanuel received the Wine Industry Achievement Award from the Anti-Defamation League for exemplary commitment to community and charity.

Vintage Hospitality Group’s team of Proprietor Jud Blount, Executive Chef Eric Rivera, Sous Chef Brian Morrison and General Manager Bryan Trammell has over 50 years of combined experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. While Vintage Hospitality Group’s flagship restaurant Vintage Year is fine dining, Vintage Café is a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store. Vintage Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing guests with the finest hand-cut meats, the freshest seafood, premium coffees, specialty teas, outstanding wines and specialty spirits along with excellent customer service.

For additional information or interviews, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Year, visit vymgm.com. 

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Vintage Hospitality Group Introduces New Items on Fall Menus

October 9, 2018 | Leave a Comment

Vintage Hospitality Group, which owns Vintage Year and Vintage Cafe, has unveiled new dining options at both restaurants. New to the Fall Dinner menu at Vintage Year include Autumn Salad (Artisan Lettuce, Roasted Butternut Squash, Fried Goat Cheese, Toasted Pistachios and a Tart Cherry Vinaigrette), C.A.B. Filet (Sweet Potato Fingerlings, Fioretto Cauliflower, Crispy Vidalia Onion Petals, Sauce Mornay), Gulf Crab Cake Fritters (Arugula, Cajun Sauce Noir), and Gulf Snapper (Butternut Squash‏ & Shrimp Bisque, Heirloom Wild Rice, Sautéed Spinach, Grilled Jumbo Gulf Shrimp). Vintage Cafe also has new breakfast and lunch menu selections for Fall including Jackson’s Reuben (Corned Beef, Swiss, Vintage Cole Slaw, Marble Rye), Capital Panini (Sweet Potato Butter, Honey Crisp Apple, Gruyere, Peppered Bacon, Arugula, Everything Bagel), Pimento Grilled Cheese (Super Suppers Pimento Cheese, Toasted Multigrain Bread) and Butternut Squash Panini (Roasted Butternut Squash, Herb Goat Cheese, Arugula, Crispy Pancetta). These new menus allows Vintage Hospitality Group to engage with its patrons by providing offerings that are new, exciting and different.

“We still have some additional items to release on this autumn menu,” said Executive Chef Eric Rivera, “As the season changes, our menus reflect fall flavors and utilize the availability of not only local products but also seasonal ones.”

Vintage Hospitality Group’s team of Proprietor Jud Blount, Executive Chef Eric Rivera, Sous Chefs Brian Morrison and Amber Bonds has over 50 years of combined experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. While Vintage Hospitality Group’s flagship restaurant Vintage Year is a fine dining, Vintage Café is a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store. Vintage Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing guests with the finest hand-cut meats, the freshest seafood, premium coffees, specialty teas, outstanding wines and specialty spirits along with excellent customer service.

For additional information or interviews, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. Click here for Vintage Cafe photos or here for Vintage Year’s images. For more information about Vintage Cafe, visit www.vintagecafemgm.com and Vintage Year or photos, visit vymgm.com. 

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Vintage Café Opens in Historic Regions Bank Building in Montgomery, AL

March 1, 2018 | Leave a Comment

Amidst Montgomery, Alabama’s reemergence, Vintage Hospitality Group recently brought Vintage Café to the Old Cloverdale neighborhood in the former Regions Bank building. Serving Monday-Saturday from 7am–5pm, Vintage Café has grab-and-go offerings as well as indoor/outdoor seating and a drive-thru window for customers to enjoy Stumptown Coffee Roasters specialty coffees, Steven Smith Teamaker teas, fresh juices, smoothies, beer, wine, a variety of healthy food choices and a retail area full of blends, gifts and accessories. The space was created for everyone in the neighborhood from moms grabbing a quick bite or smoothie after school to professionals working remotely or getting a cup of joe on the way to the office.

“At Vintage Café, our team is committed to providing a crisp level of service that is prompt and polite,” said General Manager Bryan Wooden. “Welcoming each of our guests into our comfortable environment coupled with our quality offerings are the ingredients to providing the preferred Vintage Café experience. This is our contribution and commitment to our community.”

Built in 1955, the two story, former Regions and First National Bank building is owned by Café proprietor Jud Blount and his uncle, Tom Blount. Prior to transforming this historic building, the elder Blount, a retired architect, also designed the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and Blount Cultural Park in addition to several other buildings internationally. The sleek, modern interior design was done by Laura Dockery Design while the renovation was brought to life by R.F. Pruett Construction. Working together, the team refurbished the bank’s terrazzo floors, transformed the teller window into a drive thru and re-purposed safety deposit boxes along the counter. Guests will see other elements of the old bank including a working camera in the height chart by the entrance, the depository box, and metal vault gate. Additionally, the second-floor mezzanine that overlooks the entrance is next to a private room that is available for daytime meetings as well as receptions and cocktail parties at night.

Vintage Hospitality Group brings Vintage Café to the Old Cloverdale neighborhood located at 416 Cloverdale Road. The team of Proprietor Jud Blount, Executive Chef Eric Rivera and General Manager Bryan Wooden has over 45 years of combined experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. While Vintage Hospitality Group’s flagship restaurant Vintage Year is a fine dining establishment, Vintage Café is a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store. Vintage Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing guests with the finest culinary selections, premium coffees, specialty teas, outstanding wines and spirits along with excellent customer service.

For additional information, interviews or photos, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about Vintage Cafe, visit www.vintagecafemgm.com. 

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Vintage Year Introduces Gourmet to Go Menu in Montgomery

January 11, 2018 | Leave a Comment

After many requests from guests, Vintage Year restaurant is pleased to offer Gourmet to Go for house parties, events and social gatherings. Available by the half and full pan, family style sides include Mac ‘n Cheese, Collards, Turnip Greens with Bacon, Duck Fat Baby Potatoes and Goat Cheese Au Gratin ranging from $25 to $100. Pimento Cheese, Artichoke Dip, Andouille Stew and Seafood Dynamite can be ordered by the quart and serve 6-8 people for $15 to $25. 24 hour advance notice and scheduled pick up times are required for orders from this special menu. 

“We chose selections that are easily transportable and reflect the quality as if you were dining at Vintage Year,” said Executive Chef Eric Rivera. “Items such as the Seafood Dynamite and Andouille Stew have always been favorites on our menu and in the past patrons have ordered larger quantities for family visits.” 

An important part of the fabric of Montgomery, Vintage Hospitality Group’s team of Proprietor Jud Blount, Executive Chef Eric Rivera and General Manager Bryan Wooden have over 45 years of combined experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry. While Vintage Hospitality Group’s flagship restaurant Vintage Year is a fine dining, Vintage Café will be a coffee shop, daytime eatery and retail store. Vintage Hospitality Group is dedicated to providing guests with the finest hand-cut meats, the freshest seafood, premium coffees, specialty teas, outstanding wines and spirits along with excellent customer service.

For additional information, interviews or photos, please contact Lorrie Griggs of Eskimo Advertising at lorrie@eskimoadvertising.com. For more information about  Vintage Year, visit vymgm.com.

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