The Blue Ox Chef Matt O’Neil Will Bring The Ledger to Salem

A new concept will open next year in Salem, courtesy of the chef behind an acclaimed restaurant in Lynn. Matt O’Neil of The Blue Ox plans to open his second restaurant, The Ledger, inside a former bank building in the heart of downtown Salem (125 Washington St.), according to Boston Herald.

O’Neil will reportedly use the place’s history as a bank to inspire the restaurant as he works to build it out for a targeted opening in late spring or early summer. The Ledger will seat more than 200, keeping the exposed brick and high ceilings from the existing structure, among other design elements. There will be a raw bar, a charcuterie counter, and an open kitchen, and O’Neil plans to use the old bank vault as the walk-in refrigerator.

The restaurant will feature wood-fired grill cooking, locally sourced meats, and farm-to-table fare. Craft beers and cocktails will complement the food menu. Construction has already begun at The Ledger, and progress will be documented on the restaurant’s Instagram page.

• Blue Ox Chef Banks on New Salem Eatery [BH]
• Matt O’Neil of The Blue Ox in Lynn to Open The Ledger in Salem [BRT]