A fresh concept is coming soon to the Short North as Chef BJ Lieberman prepares to debut Metsi’s, a new Italian-inspired restaurant and bar set to take over the former Hiraeth space at 36 E. Lincoln St.
The two-story venue will offer a more accessible and comforting dining experience than its predecessor, with a focus on handmade pastas, Mediterranean-style grilled meats, and house-pulled mozzarella. Downstairs, guests will find Metsi’s Wood-Fired Italian, where the custom wood-burning hearth from Hiraeth remains central to the menu. Upstairs, The Bar at Metsi’s will serve up aperitivo-style drinks, including a curated selection of Italian wines and Negronis.
With seating for about 100, the refreshed space will also include a private dining room and a relocated entrance that opens directly from the adjacent parking garage for added convenience.
Metsi’s is designed to be a neighborhood staple rather than a high-concept destination. The goal: simple, high-quality food that people love—no gimmicks, no constant reinvention, just craveable Italian dishes with a Mediterranean edge.
Chef Lieberman hopes to open Metsi’s by early June.
