There’s a new flame igniting in the Short North, and it smells like wood-fired radiatori and freshly grilled artichokes.
Award-winning chef BJ Lieberman, the James Beard Semifinalist behind Chapman’s Eat Market and Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge, is back with his most personal (and possibly most craveable) venture yet: Metsi’s Wood-Fired Italian, opening June 6 at 36 E Lincoln St.
Named after Lieberman’s father, whom his son affectionately calls Metsi, the restaurant aims to be both a neighborhood go-to and a special occasion destination. “I wanted to create a space that felt like home,” Lieberman said. “Somewhere that serves approachable food that’s elevated in form but desired any day of the week.”
At Metsi’s, the emphasis is on wood-fired Italian classics with just enough smoke and soul to keep you coming back. Think radiatori alla Roma, eggplant parmesan, grilled artichokes, and of course, tiramisu that’s likely to haunt your dreams in the best way.
But it’s not just the menu that’s worth buzzing about. It’s the space(s).
Metsi’s features three distinct experiences under one roof:
- The Bar at Metsi’s: Light, airy, and inspired by the Italian coast, this upstairs space opens early for walk-in-only happy hour (4–6 p.m.), with a short but satisfying menu and drink specials. Stay past 5 p.m. and you’ll have access to the full dinner menu and a cocktail list anchored by a suite of Negronis.
- The Main Dining Room: Located downstairs, it’s moody and intimate, with every seat offering a view of the open, wood-fired kitchen. Watching your meal come to life is half the magic.
- The Parlor: For a more private affair, this tucked-away room offers space for 8 to 20 guests, complete with its own bar. It’s ideal for dinner parties, celebrations, or simply flexing your inner Italian nonna.
“I hope Metsi’s can be a go-to for anyone who loves great Italian food, delicious cocktails, and a beautiful ambiance,” Lieberman added. “We feel right at home in the Short North and hope our customers feel the same when they walk through our doors.”
Metsi’s Hours:
- Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday: 5–9 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 5–10 p.m.
- Happy Hour at The Bar at Metsi’s: 4–6 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday
Reservations are recommended but not required. Mangia, Columbus. You’ve got a new favorite spot to obsess over. For more info, head over to metsisitalian.com.
