Salar Restaurant and Lounge co-owner and executive chef Margot Blondet announced that she has signed a lease for her popular chef-driven concept, marking her comeback to Dayton’s diverse culinary scene. Salar will re-open in the summer in its former Historic Oregon District location on 400 E. Fifth St.
The upscale French-Peruvian fusion eatery suffered devastating loses after an early morning fire broke out on Dec. 29, forcing the staff to cancel more than 350 New Year celebration reservations and the restaurant to shutter temporarily.
In asking Chef how she’s been filling her time, she shared , “I think I’ve worked harder in the last couple months working with the insurance company, re-negotiating the lease and dealing with the architects. It’s been a real roller coaster of emotions, and by the way I don’t like roller coasters or surprises.”
“It’s time to get cooking again,” says Blondet, “The love and support that the Dayton community has shown me and my restaurant family is overwhelming. Now, we’re ready for the renovation journey that will refresh Salar with new ideas while honoring what our guests have come to cherish from our culinary and bar program.”
She says they’ve been cleaning and packing away things that can be salvaged to get ready for the renovation and making manuals for the new vision.
The interior design vibe will evolve to embrace current trends, with a color palette that’s lighter, airier and more inviting. The new layout begins with a lobby that leads to a new wine and main bar area that will accommodate more guests than before, complemented by an expanded wine and spirits menu. A larger outdoor dining area will enhance the experience of customers wishing for an al fresco ambiance.
“While the loss was heartbreaking, starting over has given me the opportunity to dream bigger, to be more creative and to take more risks,” adds Blondet. “Dayton, I’m coming for you. Expect to be wowed.”
The construction phase will commence soon, pending permitting, and will continue through the next few months. The building will be getting new a new HVAC system, new electric and plumbing. It will be like a brand new building with a grand re-opening expected in the summer. Construction updates and new information will be posted as it becomes available on Salar’s social media channels on Facebook and Instagram.
Hurry up, we can’t wait Chef Margot!
