Michael Schlow to Replace Via Matta With Greek Cuisine

Chef and restaurateur Michael Schlow is on to his next act: The Boston Globe reports that he will close his Park Square restaurant Via Matta at the end of May and open Doretta Taverna and Raw Bar in its place this fall.

The new restaurant, inspired by his wife's Greek heritage, will feature food that "isn't overly complicated. It’s about healthy, light, delicious food," Schlow told the Globe.

When Via Matta opened in Back Bay in 2002, the Italian fare was unique to the neighborhood. Business has slowed in recent years, and especially with the high-profile opening of Strip by Strega in the neighborhood, Schlow said he feels it's time for something new. Doretta Taverna will do away with the white tablecloths, favoring reclaimed wood and a more casual ambiance. Renovations will include the installation of French doors toward an expanded patio area, and Schlow will relocate the restaurant's main entrance and its bar.

The cuisine, made with New England ingredients, will include warm flatbreads and spreads, whole local fish, bone-in lamb shoulder, and zucchini chips with Greek yogurt. Oysters, salads, and desserts will be plated table-side, the Globe reports.

Renovation on the 7,500 square-foot space will take place this summer and Doretta Taverna will open in fall 2015.